About Iraq
I remember the call for war in 2003 and I recall the moment I heard it, where I was and what I felt. Things had definitely changed for the USA for good or bad and they would never be the same.
However, wasn't that the case anyway? I mean, it was in 2001 that our very simple way of American life was shattered for another generation and things that were never meant to be had happened so atrociously. We would never be the same.
And now today, we hear of the end of a long war. Costly, long and painful it was. However, today instead of doing what so many are and only seeing the downside and loss. I want to instead take a moment to be still and remember. A moment to bless. A moment to encourage. A moment to celebrate.
Celebration? What would I celebrate?
Life…
Let us take a moment before it escapes us and say, "THANK YOU!" to the ones that gave their lives. The ones that paid the prices for our liberty and our nation's continued prosperity. Take a moment and tell a service member thank you whether they were in the battles in Iraq or simply were serving in reserve duty here in the states. If you see someone in a uniform in the airport, the mall or anywhere else in public. Stop them where they are and say, "Thank you for what you do for us. Thank you for serving. Thank you for your sacrifice or even better, just a simple, stoic, quiet, honest, reverent, gentle, 'Thank you.'"
To all the service members in our wonderful church community and outside, this is one pastor that wants you to know that I am proud to know you. I am proud of you. I am here for you and your family.
THANK YOU!
Take a second after reading this and pray for all of our military members in the USA. And take another moment and pray for the peace of Iraq.
Thank you!
pd
Dustin Hedrick
Senior Pastor