As someone who has had the opportunity to travel and see other parts of the world, I’ve grown in my appreciation for the freedoms we as Americans hold. But those freedoms have come at a cost; not one I have paid, but one the men and women of our Armed Forces have paid. So, when my uncle made the recommendation, I knew I wanted to put together a set of personalized Scripture cards to encourage them.
When I told my uncle that I would put together a set, I asked him if he would recommend some verses that he thought would be good to help me get started. John 15:13 was included on the list of verses he sent, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
As I read that verse, I thought about how that verse takes on a different meaning for someone serving in the military. For me, a civilian, I read that verse and think about it metaphorically, not literally. But as we head into Fourth of July weekend and celebrate the many freedoms we have as a country and even more, as believers in Christ, I think of the men and women who have given their lives, along with those who continue to give their lives, so we can be free.
So, to those who have served and to those who are serving, thank you. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made – time away from family, as well as the physical, emotional, and mental sacrifices made so we back home can live freely. It may not be said often enough, but I, for one, am truly grateful for you and the sacrifices you have made and continue to make.