I stood there in the bleachers....people all around me. The music was blaring and children were screaming, pregnant women crying. It was a scene that I can not put into words and a scene that would forever change my understanding of what the cost of freedom really means.
Today was Memorial Day - a day set aside to remember our fallen soldiers, those that have paid the price for our freedom, for our country, in our place. I never really knew many soldiers or military personel growing up. I really had no idea what the military was really all about until I joined a military church in college. Almost overnight, my entire circle of friends were now military. That was right after September 11 and before the war began. I was raised watching those old movies where the women bid farewell to the men they loved and sent them off to war, but never did I think that I would one day be doing the same. Understanding the sacrifice that each and every soldier pays for me - has never become more real than that night in the gym - sending some of the closest friends I have ever had off to war. Some would return, and others would not. I was sad but more than anything, I was overwhelmed at the sight before me - the sight of all the families hugging, clinging and crying, holding on for the last few minutes before the soldiers left the room. Then the time came, the order was given, the men arose, lined up and there they went through the door. And they were gone. Never have I been more proud of those brave men and women, willing to do whatever was needed of them with an uncertain year ahead of them.
As I think about those days and those that returned, and those that did not, and their precious families - all I can say is thank you. Thank you for your courage. Thank you for your service, thank you for your life. You are not forgotten. The price that you paid is not in vain. Thank you.
Just as these men and women have displayed courage - God also calls us to be courageous. We are all fighting an even more important battle. We need to live by the examples that are before us, willing to pay whatever the cost to follow Christ. We need to be courageous. As God commanded Joshua to "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." But so often we are not willing to fight the fight. We are not willing to stand up for what is right. Christ made it clear that following Christ would only come at a great cost. As He said that we are to take up our cross daily and follow him. The cost is great but the reward even greater. If God is for us - who can be against us (Rom. 8:31)? Are you living courageously? Am I living courageously? Are we willing to pay the price?
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