One and Only ~ Rend Collective
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…But do
not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in
love. ~ Galatians 5:1, 13 NIV
I was unprepared for the scene as the road to the grocery
store took me past two cemeteries, where dozens of flags waved in honor of
military heroes. One of my grandpas is among them. As I continued past, I
realized that for far too many, this weekend would be a moment in which time
would stand still, as memories of their fallen heroes flooded their minds.
It was shortly after my grandpa’s death that we found the
article about his younger brother, Pfc. Clayton Hayes. The article told of how
Clayton and his troop helped families carry their belongings back to their war-ravaged
homes in Normandy. The article was written in June 1944, just three months
before Clayton died as a war-hero.
For many of us, it’s been a long couple of months that we’ve
felt our freedoms were stripped under orders to stay at home—not work, not see
friends or family, not go out unless necessary. While it’s been a trying season
and we’re all ready to experience more freedoms, let’s not forget those who
died for them.
First and foremost, Jesus died—paying the highest price—so
that you could live, not to please yourself, but for Him. Second, remember the
men and women who fought and died protecting the freedoms we enjoy in this country.
Today, take a moment to pray for the families who’ve lost loved ones in the
wars. Pray also for those who are currently serving in the military, as well as
their families. Then, as you see those who’ve served, say, “Thank you.” My stepdad,
who served in both Vietnam and in Desert Storm, always says, “All anyone has to
say is, ‘Thank you.’” Finally, spend time asking God how you can serve others.
We’re not all called to the military, but we’re all called to serve one another
in love.
Article on Pfc. Clayton Hayes, and the others in his troop.
Article on Pfc. Clayton Hayes, and the others in his troop.
©Heather Potts 2020
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