“A Tribute to Veterans”
Proverbs 14:34; Romans 13:1-7
Introduction: Today is Veterans’ Sunday. November 11 became a holiday after WW I to observe the anniversary of the signing of the armistice in 1918. Many other conflicts took place after 1918. Then on June 2, 1954 a law was passed changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day to honor those who fought in all wars. By contrast Memorial Day is a day to remember those who died in service to our country, while today we remember to thank all those who served.
America has been involved in armed conflicts all around the world. Not long ago the draft was in forced so that all able-bodied men were required to serve in the military. The draft is in forced in many countries around the globe. In Israel all able-bodied persons, men and women, are required to serve two years in the military. But today in our country service in the military is voluntary. This means that those who now serve and will serve are willingly committing their lives for the protection of our freedoms and the protection of freedom around the world. Today we honor those who have served, but lets not forget to thank those who now serve voluntarily around the world.
The freedoms we enjoy today, including the freedom to move from place to place as we wish, the freedom to elect our governing officials and the freedom we have to gather here in this place to worship – these freedoms and more were bought with a price. We need only look at the recent events in the world, to be reminded of the enormity of that price.
Every conflict we’ve ever been involved in has had its share of casualties, of sons or daughters lost, as well as sons or daughters returning home safely, sometimes to a hero’s welcome. Every once in a while, during those conflicts, something happens, a soldier does something, which is so out-of-the ordinary that Congress acknowledges that person’s efforts by awarding them the Medal of Honor. This award is presented to someone who distinguishes himself by gallantry at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The deed performed must have been one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the individual above his comrades and must have involved risk of life.
The lives represented here today are among those who have served with honor. And I suspect many brave acts were performed that we will never know about because of the sensitivity of the mission or the humbleness of the soldier.
It is interesting and more than a coincidence that as Christians living in this 21st century and seeking to be faithful followers of Jesus Christ that we are also called to be servants above all.
Jesus said, ESV Mark 9:35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all."
Seeking to follow Jesus Paul said, ESV 1 Corinthians 9:19 For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.
And Matthew quotes Isaiah who was referring to Jesus,
NAS Matthew 12:18 "Behold, My Servant whom I have chosen; My Beloved in whom My soul is well-pleased; I will put My Spirit upon Him, And He shall proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
While I have not had the privilege of serving in my country’s military, I have had the privilege of serving in Christ’s army. And so have you as a follower of Jesus Christ. Those of you who have served in the United States military have the honor of serving in two armies. I suspect that you have learned a lot about service in the United States military. Many of those concepts are transferable to your being a servant of Jesus Christ. Thank you for serving in each military and for the example you set for the rest of us to follow.
Conclusion:
As we go forth from this place on this Veterans Day weekend, let me encourage you to remember those who have served and continue to serve our country by seeking out opportunities to say two simple words: “Thank you.” Thank them for their commitment to this country and its freedoms. At the same time, give thanks to God, also, for Jesus Christ, and HIS willingness to serve, His commitment to our spiritual freedom and our eternal salvation. And then, be confident in your daily “faith battles,” knowing that you are equipped by God to be that faithful warrior that makes a difference in the world around you.