Remember Them!

One time at an airport, I found myself watching a handsome elderly man who wore a blue jacket with several medals pinned on the lapel. Atop his silver hair was his Veterans of Foreign Wars hat cocked at an angle. He was standing by a red carpet that led to the check-in counter, and he was helping young soldiers arriving at the airport from Iraq. To every young man or woman in uniform he would say, “Hi there, soldier, where is home for you?” He then would take their ticket and direct them to the proper line. “Welcome home, friend,” the veteran would say softly, then pat the soldier on the back as he or she went on their way. “Thanks, sir,” the soldiers would often say, and some even saluted him.

That elderly veteran inspired me. Later, when I passed through security and encountered several other soldiers, I decided to thank them and welcome them home too. I thought of the many soldiers who had become disabled like me. Their sacrifices mean something—their courage has opened paths for freedom and, with that, paths for the gospel.

The prayer in 2 Chronicles 6 was one that Solomon offered before the Lord at the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. We can pray the same today. May God hear the pleas of our brave men and women in the armed forces, and may he uphold their cause. Go out of your way today to encourage a veteran.

Father, I look forward to the day when the people will beat their spears into plowshares. Until then, may your will be accomplished as we fight against injustice around the world. Protect our brave soldiers, and encourage their families. Amen.

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For the next devotional from Joni, see p. 537click here.

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