A Day To Be Grateful (thank you, veterans!)

Uncle Harlan, MIA, Korean War

Today I am honoring all servicemen and women who gave so much to this country, especially my uncle Harlan Reuter, whom I never met.  

Last week I attended the funeral of a former Navy sailor. Following the church service, we filed outside to be greeted by an honor guard detail. A brief ceremony ensued, where the flag was folded and presented to the next of kin, a gun salute given, and taps played.

Although the playing of taps always brings me to tears, it was the short speech by the commander explaining the ceremony that most moved me. The elderly veteran spoke of the sacrifice service members make for the freedom of our country. 

He mentioned how the guard is proud to give a final farewell to each and every veteran. That it is an honor to stand one last time for his fellow comrade-in-arms. 

An Honor to Stand

I too find it an honor to stand for those who gallantly served in uniform. I am so grateful for all soldiers and sailors who sacrificed for this country. Those who linked arms (and hearts) to battle in the trenches. Who left loved ones to go to distant shores to secure and maintain our freedoms. Some who never returned home. 

I am thankful for those military comrades-in-arms. 

And I am also grateful for those comrades-in-arms who battle in the trenches to share the good news of the freedom found in the Gospel. Those who link arms and hearts to proclaim the hope and promise found in Christ Jesus. 

Thank You

Thank you, military veterans, for your willingness to sacrifice your freedom for others. For blessing others through your service to country and fellow countrymen.

Thank you, military veterans, for your willingness to sacrifice your freedom for others. For blessing others through your service to country and fellow countrymen. Share on X

And thank you, fellow Christian comrades-in-arms, for being bold and strong for Christ. For fighting to proclaim the freedom from sins to all the world.

May the Lord continue to bless the United States of America. May He look with mercy on this land and our souls. May He continue to raise up soldiers willing to fight for the freedom of this great country. May He continue to embolden those who proclaim freedom from sin and death, a battle that through Jesus Christ has already been won for us. 

May you, my dear friends, have a meaningful day, one rich in memories and abounding in love and laughter. 

“Share in the suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:3).

Reflections: Who are you remembering today? How do you celebrate Memorial Day? 

Linking with Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience in 2013 for my Joy Dare list  for Multitude Mondays (#1746–1766, read them all by clicking here):