Soldiers and Sacrifice

You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. (2 Timothy 2:1-4) 

Those who have served in the military have an advantage in understanding the true nature of the church, and those who have died in our service have experienced what is most similar to Christ’s sacrifice. The church is an imperfect, undisciplined, and voluntary institution, but it has been entrusted with a compelling mission of unparalleled importance: to free and protect those oppressed and enslaved by God’s enemies, through the united, sacrificial service of its members under the command of Christ. The mission would be hopeless were it not led by Him who has already won the victory over sin, death, and the devil through His own voluntary sacrifice on our behalf.  This Memorial Day weekend we honor the sacrifices that have ensured our freedom in this life—and the next. 

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedoms we enjoy now and in eternity. Make us good soldiers, sacrificially serving others, under Your command, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A pastor approached a little boy gazing at a plaque on the wall of his church.
The plaque honored congregation members who had died for their country.
The boy asked, “Pastor, whose names are these on the wall?”
The pastor replied, “Those are members of our church who died in the service.”
Suddenly solemn, the boy turned to the pastor and quietly asked,
“Which one, sir, the 8:00 o’clock or the 10:45?”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
A little girl was touring the Veterans Cemetery on Memorial Day with her grandpa.
Describing his own lengthy combat duty, the veteran mentioned he’d grown a beard. 
Pointing to a nearby monument, the girl asked, “Why don’t those soldiers have beards?”
The grandfather replied, “That sculpture reminds us of soldiers who’ve gone to heaven.”
With a wink, he continued, “Most soldiers who go to heaven get there by a close shave.”
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The Lord give you grace and gratitude this week!

Pastor Kirk