From Pastor Tommy Thompson

Rom 13:7  Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Friday was Veteran’s Day, of course, and for many of us a day of remembrance.  I couldn’t help but think, this year, of the rich military heritage I have within my own family.  My grandfather, T.L., was a Navy man during World War II.  My father, Tommy, was an Army man during Viet Nam, and I served in the Air Force for 11 years prior to entering the ministry (the Lord’s Army) from 1989 to 2000.  I have found some things to be true over the years that I wish to share:

1. Those who are most thankful for our veterans are those who served, or those who were family of those who served.  These people know firsthand, the level of sacrifice of our brave men and women.  It isn’t mere lip service.
2. Those who are most critical of our military are those who never served, nor had firsthand experience of military life.  It’s funny how people’s opinions are shaped by these factors.
3. I’ve never seen a veteran burn our US flag, the banner, for which they bled, and some died to defend.
4. Those who abuse their liberties (burning the flag, etc.) the most, are the very ones who have never served or felt the burden of sacrifice for those liberties. (I really have no patience for these foolish people).
5. Finally, I am still proud to be an American, despite the social, political, and cultural trends that are sweeping over our great country AND I am still extremely proud of our veterans for their service and our active duty men and women who are currently serving this great nation and defending our liberty.   May God richly bless them and keep them safe!

This Sunday we are honoring those to whom honor is due.  Grace is having Veteran’s Sunday and will honor not only those who have served and are serving.  We are also honoring the families of those who have been directly impacted by the sacrifice of mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, husbands, and wives.

I invite you to join us.  Bring family and friends who have served or ARE serving.  It is our privilege to honor all who have paid the price for freedom.  Remember, freedom isn’t free!