Chuck Bridges Blog

I think it is fitting that VETERANS’ Day falls so close to our annual reminder to be Thankful for the great Nation where we get to live. I have some very close friends who have children already deployed to the war zones and others who are in preparation to go. As I ponder what this day must mean to the many families who have lost loved ones or seen their family members “marked” for life because of war, is it really enough?

This past Sunday our Worship Band was leading us in the Praise song that says “I am Free.” Of course we were celebrating our Freedom from Sin’s power and penalty through the Victory won by Jesus. But, as we closed that song I felt led to come up and remind our people of all the Men and Women who are presently serving in our Armed Forces, many who are in danger of being killed or severely injured at any moment. And then what about those who go to war and come back without any obvious scars on their bodies. Only another Soldier would know what they really went through seeing other people die and maybe even being required to take the life of others. There is no way to measure the life-long effects that await these BRAVEST of the BRAVE!!

I just wanted to encourage anyone who may read this to spend time praying for our Soldiers — those who have served and those serving now. And, let’s be intentional about doing this on a daily basis and not just on a one particular day when the Federal agencies and banks are closed. I’m certainly not preaching at anyone — just sharing what I am convicted to do a better job of.

Are we really THANKFUL? How does this most basic and vital of all Attitudes affect what we do each day? Does it make us more patient when waiting in line? Does it make us kind towards our Server who is responsible for more tables than humanly possible? What about the elderly driver that is getting on your last nerve? Can’t we be a little more patient, kind, caring and giving towards our Fellow Americans? Maybe Holidays like THANKSGIVING and VETERANS’ DAY should be more about “demonstrating” our gratitude! What do you think? Let’s go out and make a difference in someone’s life ASAP.