Over two years ago we gathered to soak up every last minute
with the young man who chose to serve his country and join the Navy. In the months to come we would send him letters,
Face-time at get-togethers, celebrate holidays two weeks too early just to have
him be a part of it and ache as our hearts all adjusted to him being a world
away. His choice affected each and every
one of us profoundly. We view the flag a
little differently and hold the sacredness of the sacrifice that so many have
made a lot closer. We stand taller and
hold our heads higher when the anthem plays… because this man we all love
dearly is one of them. One of the
countless men and women who have chosen to risk their lives, step away from
their comforts, leave their families and fully embrace the unknown path ahead
of them – so that we may be free.
Our flag is symbolic of the heart of our country, the
foundation we were founded on and the gratitude that is due to the brave men and
women who have given their lives so that we may live freely. It seems as though many citizens in this day
are fueled from misguided truths that our flag may be representative of a
certain person, position, or party.
But it is not.
The truth that waves in our flag is that we have the right
to choose and within that choice we are to stand united, even when the cards
are not in our own personal favor. Because
to disrespect, tear down, burn and trample the symbol of our country is to do
those very acts to each and every soldier.
And not only that soldier but each person whose lives that single
soldier affects: their families, their friends, the ones they’ve left behind to
serve.
We can’t change the behavior that so many have adopted in
this day and age. We can’t force them to
understand the vast effects of their unruly actions. But what we can do is our part in allowing
Truth to triumph.
As media stir up fear,
failure and injustice – we will humbly, boldly allow the peace that passes all
understanding to penetrate the suffocating cloud that threatens this life.
In the midst of the
screaming shouts of politics – we will choose to tune our ears to the whisper
of our God who is faithful to hear our prayers, honor our pleas and provide for
His people.
Flags may be trampled
and torn – but the hearts that beat red, white and blue cannot be broken.
Man’s words may be
slung and abused – but we will ground ourselves in the God-breathed Word that
no man can replace, refute or undo.
Knees may be taken –
but we will stand taller, prouder, and even more thankful to represent one
nation under God.
When division and
hostility is barked – we will bear in mind that only in unity and reverent fear
of the Lord can we find sure footing.
Whether these past days have brought a sense of victory or sorrow,
one thing we must know to be true for each of us is that this world will ALWAYS
prove difficult to navigate. We weren’t
created for all that we face: the mess, scandals, busyness, hopelessness, the inconsistent
waves of defeat, death, disease, war and turmoil.
It will never be convenient.
It will never be exactly how we want it.
We are in this world but not of this world.
So each day we must
do our best to live in the Truth that has already triumphed at the Cross.
We follow the One who
has gone before us that we may find eternal hope in freedom from this world we’re
passing through.
And we thank the
brave souls that have gone where called so that we may live free in this temporary
home until that day comes…
“In this world you will have trouble.
But take heart! I have overcome
the world.” John
16:33
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall
be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9
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