Devotion from Pastor Chad – Veterans Day
Writing today on Veterans Day (November 11) I can’t help but reflect on the experiences I have had with veterans over the years. As a pastor, I’ve had the honor of serving veterans in our congregation. We’ve had great men and women, from a “Rosie the Riveter” to those who served in times of peace and those who saw action abroad. I’ve witnessed our local Legion support and serve veterans in our community in meaningful ways, especially at the graveside. I’ve had the honor and privilege of praying at the Memorial Day service most of the years I’ve served here. I’ve had the privilege of sitting with veterans at the end of their lives and experiencing sacred and tender moments with family, hearing their stories of life and service. Through them I’ve been introduced to the work of organizations like the Wounded Warrior project and heard about the struggle of those with PTSD and how hard it is to return home after service. All of these have increased my awareness of the joy and pain of serving in our nation’s military and the impact it makes on all of us. Helps me better understand the freedoms I have taken for granted. Helps me to better appreciate my dad and grandfathers’ military service.
Over the years, I’ve also experienced the tension that many veterans and congregation members feel about military service and how it connects to a life of faith. Some folks are proudly patriotic and deeply offended when others don’t believe as fiercely as they do. Others may only characterize military service in violent terms and don’t acknowledge the many different roles that the military plays in the world. Some find ways to advocate for peace and non-violence, while still supporting the men and women in uniform. As typical to a Disciples of Christ congregation, there are many different and similar opinions!
Perhaps one of our best approaches is simply gratitude. Young men and women every year sign-up to serve our country for many different reasons. The least we can do is show them our gratitude and appreciation. The best we can do–as a nation and church–is to work for peace in every way possible so that no one will ever have to go to a soldier’s grave again. Let’s pray for and support our veterans and their families today and let’s work for peace for all.
To all the veterans in our church: THANK YOU for your service!
Looking forward to being with you this weekend in worship!
God’s blessings and peace be with you,
Chad
