thrive community

Opening Day of baseball is a day I try not to miss. I’ve not been able to attend the past few years but I try to be involved, either by watching it on TV or catching the highlights on the evening news. Memorial Day is a special day as well. Watching the parades, listening to patriotic music and getting the chance to say “thank you” to all of our military is truly wonderful. There’s something deeper to these moments for me.

For one, participating with thousands of others singing the National Anthem is a very emotional thing. Then, comes the loud, powerful roar of the F-16′s as they fly over the stadium with precision timing and formation. Screaming and clapping are our best attempt to join this awe inspiring moment.

I get to live in the greatest country on the planet (in my humble opinion) and have a deep sense of gratitude for all that this country has given me. I’ve always been amazed at the level of sacrifice that millions of our soldiers have made to protect, defend and honor our country. The greatest expression of love is when someone lays their live down for the sake of someone else (John 15:13). It reminds me of the greater calling of every person to live for others and something bigger than themselves. It’s the way of Jesus.

I have many family members and friends who are currently serving or who have served our country in the past. The pride and honor in which they serve is amazing. To know that another human being is prepared to make sure I am safe and able to be free stirs the depth of my heart in ways that are hard to explain. It’s something that is a reflection of something deeper, something that paints a picture of what God has done for us. He gave His Son so that we may have life. He gave so that we may gain, not just here in this world, but so that we may gain a better place. A better life here and in the world to come.

Those of us who follow Jesus Christ can learn a great deal from those who serve in our military. There is a focus to live from a different perspective and with a different purpose (2 Tim 2:2-4). We’ve been given much from God that must be passed along so that others can have the opportunity to experience life and freedom. Enduring hardship for the sake of others and for the glory of our God is the essence of what it means to take up our cross daily. 

Freedom isn’t free. It always has a price. Someone gave for our gain. May we who follow Jesus be thankful today and live for the greater good and for the glory of God.

Thank you to all who serve our country and other countries in this world so that freedom, justice and peace can flourish.

Let freedom ring!

What do you think?