Veteran’s Day is personal to me.

My father is a Vietnam War veteran.  While I haven’t heard many of his stories I know that the circumstances he found himself in, the atrocities that he witnessed, and the lingering aftereffects can never be erased. 

No matter how much time goes by.

Today, he proudly wears his veteran’s cap, sports a Vietnam Veteran’s plate on his truck, and attends a weekly Vietnam Veteran’s meeting where men like him congregate to talk, reminisce, and continue to help each other share in the sacrifices that they all knowingly made.

My father sacrificed his time – more than a year was spent away from his brand new wife and dedicated to the steamy jungles and unknown culture of Vietnam.

My father sacrificed his innocence – images seared into his mind from frontline war, ambushes, and humanity at its worst cannot be undone. 

My father sacrificed his freedom – when drafted, he bravely answered the call and stepped up to serve not knowing if he’d ever return to the comforts of his American life.

My father sacrificed his peace – fear gripped his heart and mind daily as he learned to live in “fight or flight” mode.  Exhaustion; stress; and terror became his norm.

Life, liberties, freedom, and peace all come at a very heavy price.

My father’s example taught me that.  My Savior’s life did, as well.

Jesus proved that sacrifice was the ultimate part of living a selfless life.  His voluntary decision to endure the most brutal of Roman culture tortures of the day – crucifixion – demonstrated that.

That divine sacrifice continues to resonate around the world as scores of Christ-followers choose to pick up their cross and die daily to themselves as they love God supremely, love others as themselves, and live with mission and purpose. (Luke 9:23)

I am daily grateful for God’s ultimate sacrifice as Jesus exchanged His life for me.

I am also daily grateful for my father’s sacrifice as he bravely served in a war that was a magnet for controversy.  But a war his country called him to serve in regardless.

Today, I write this in honor of my father and all the other men and women who have answered that call to serve, protect, and defend our country.

Thank you. 

Your service, your devotion, and your sacrifices will forever be written on the pages of history and the deepest places of our hearts.

Until next time, Grace and Glory!