John 15:13

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. - John 15:13

Dear Jesus,

I know there are droves of men and women who join the armed services as mercenaries who live to fight. But as many more joined up out of the same motives you had when you came to earth and spoke these words the night before you laid it all on the battlefield for us. They served in the military of the United States of America to protect their family, friends and fellow Americans from tyrants and the enemies of justice and freedom. On this special day I thank you for creating and sustaining people like this who have secured for my family and me a peaceful and tranquil life where I can worship freely, preach energetically, travel without interruption and pursue opportunities not known in most of your world. These folks are a gift from you. Today help veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much for so many, to feel their worth and comprehend the gratitude that the rest of us have for them. Give them the honor they are due that will combat their feelings of chaos and worthlessness that war can ravage on a soul. Make them understand that their sacrifices are not spent in vain on us who respect their heartfelt gift. Protect their hearts from foolish despair.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

If your biggest earthly concerns today are your job, family, education and faith, you have a veteran to thank for the freedom and safety that allows for it.

Additional Reading: Romans 13