Armed Forces Day

ARMED FORCES DAY

On November eleventh of each year, a grateful nation honors those in her military service. It matters not what the individual’s ethnic or religious background may be, the fact that he or she is willing to face danger or death for their nation is enough to merit our gratitude. These are the ones who suffer separation from family and friends in order that the rest of us may be more secure in our hearth and homes.

I often think that such service must be even more difficult for those who are dedicated to God, and are living Christian lives. Then I remember an account of a missionary to China during the upheavals there in the 1930’s. It seems a certain General who, though an atheist himself, encouraged evangelists to visit his troops, and encouraged his troops to become Christian. When asked why, he replied that a Christian was a soldier who could face death more resolutely and was honest and obedient. While I have known unbelievers who were brave beyond all belief, the fact remains that those who know Christ have a source of strength and comfort not available to others.
Yet in another way it is doubly difficult for the military person who is also a soldier for Christ, for he must face the battle on the spiritual front as well. In this battle his faith is tested daily. Not only by the dangers of battle, but by the temptation that surrounds him without let-up twenty-four hours a day.

To all those in service we say, "thank you and we remember you in our prayers" and for those Christians in the armed forces, we offer up our prayers that He will draw you close and give power to your testimonies for Him.
freddie

P.S. Happy birthday to all you Marines on the 10th!