11/10/2024
Romans 13:7 - Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Tomorrow is Veteran’s Day, a day on which we pay our respect, honor, and thanks to the men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. With hearts full of gratitude for those who have served our country with courage and dedication, let us reflect on their sacrifices and may their example inspire us to serve others with the same spirit of selflessness.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, a veteran is defined as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. This definition includes those who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice in battle. Veterans are honored for their service and sacrifice, whether they are living or have passed away. This recognition is an important part of Veterans Day and other commemorations. Memorial Day is a separate day that honors those who gave their lives in battle. Their remembrances are also included on Veteran’s Day.
My Dad fought in WWII before he was married, and he was reluctant to share many experiences. I think a lot of veterans are the same. For many, it is too personal; too many awful things can happen that just aren’t comfortable to discuss. He did tell us two stories that I recall that affected his life. During one of his four campaigns in France and Germany, he went for 2-3 months with only water and Brussels Sprouts. Every meal, that’s all they had. I remember as a kid that when Mom served this dish, Dad would not partake. He said he lost his taste for them in the war. No wonder.
He also told of a time when he and a couple of friends were in a French movie theater. The only seats left were those in the back. During the film an enemy plane dove into the front of the theater, but he and his friends avoided their deaths. Again, when we attended a movie as a family, we always sat in the back of the theater. I am sure other veterans experience such life modifications because of their war time experiences.
When I think of veterans, I think of the range of characteristics that reflect their dedication, courage, and commitment to service. Here are some key virtues that come to mind that are commonly associated with veterans: Courage: The bravery to face danger and adversity, often in life-threatening situations. Sacrifice: The willingness to give up personal comforts, time, and even their lives for the greater good. Honor: Upholding a strong sense of duty, integrity, and ethical conduct. Loyalty: A deep commitment to their country, comrades, and the values they protect. Perseverance: The ability to endure hardships and challenges with resilience and determination. Discipline: Maintaining self-control, order, and adherence to rules and standards. Selflessness: Putting the needs of others and the mission above their own personal interests. Service: A dedication to serving their country and community, often continuing even after their military career. Leadership: The ability to guide, inspire, and support others, often in high-pressure situations. Compassion: Showing empathy and care for fellow service members, their families, and those they protect. These virtues not only define their military service but also influence their contributions to society in civilian life.
A veteran must answer the call to serve. Sometimes that call is answered voluntarily, and sometimes it is demanded of them. But either way, they answer the call to serve, and God whispers to them 1 Corinthians 16:13 - “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” They often leave behind their friends, family, loved ones, jobs, and comforts to protect our freedoms. Their willingness to stand firm and be courageous is a testament to their strength and faith, and they deserve our respect and honor. We too, are called to serve in various capacities, whether in our communities, our families, or our church. We honor their commitments as we serve others.
Veterans are the foremost example of sacrifice. John 15:13 tells us: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” A veteran faces their call knowing that it might require their life, the ultimate sacrifice. To serve with this foreboding possibility is a profound expression of love and commitment. This is the same sacrifice Christ made for us. As we honor their sacrifices, let us also remember the sacrifices we are called to make in our own lives. Whether it is giving our resources or love, we are called to serve others selflessly.
Veteran’s Day is about honoring the ones who have given of their time, talents, and service on our behalf, so that we can have the freedoms that we enjoy today. The Bible says, “It they are owed respect, then respect them; if they are owed honor, then honor them. Veterans have earned and deserve our honor and respect.
Honoring someone is about recognizing and showing respect for their value, contributions, or achievements. It can take many forms, like giving someone an award, speaking highly of them, or simply demonstrating appreciation and gratitude. It is about making someone feel seen, valued, and respected. Honoring someone is like telling them, “You matter, and who you are and what you've done have made a difference.”
Culturally, it is difficult to express those sentiments without sounding awkward. We are advised to say something like, “Thank you for your service.” While that is adequate, it runs a bit contrived and shallow for the feelings that we really feel. “Thank you for your service, and I honor the sacrifice and courage that was required of you.” It is difficult to find the right words to express our gratitude.
It is our duty to honor and respect our veterans, not just on Veterans Day, but every day. Perhaps we cannot always find the right words, but we can show our appreciation through acts of kindness, support, and gratitude. Let us also honor them by living lives that reflect the values they fought to protect.
So, it is my prayer that as we leave church, we carry with us the lessons we have learned from our veterans. Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication are an inspiration to us all. May we strive to serve others with the same spirit, and honor their legacy through our actions.
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