Several weeks ago, on a Friday lunch date (sans kiddos) with my husband Joel, our conversation turned to what many of us have been discussing recently: the level of division in our country. My husband sighed and remarked, “I did not put on the uniform and fight in a war for people to treat each other this way.”
My husband served for six years as a tank commander in the United States Marines Corps. In many ways, being a Marine formed Joel into who he is today. When he was 45, we were attending our denominational Annual Conference and we passed by a booth sponsored by the Army with the sole purpose of recruiting pastors to become military chaplains. Joel made an off-handed remark: "I always wanted to go back in and be a chaplain.” After much prayer, and with the notion of obedience to the calling of God (and an age waiver), Joel was sworn in as a chaplain in the Army Reserves. He served faithfully for six years until August 5 of this year, when he received a medical discharge.
Joel and I vehemently disagree on some fundamental ideologies politically, even after almost twenty years together. We have had some heated debates, and now there are just some things we don’t really discuss. But I love him completely and he loves me completely. He is fond of paraphrasing a quote originated by Evelyn Beatrice Hall: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” He has said that to me many times in our relationship.
Today is Veteran’s Day, and perhaps the best way to honor the veterans in our country is to treat one another with kindness. And civility. And grace. And mercy. Just because someone disagrees with our political candidate or deeply held ideologies doesn’t mean one person loves Jesus more and one person loves Jesus less. And because we love Jesus, we are called to remain in relationship with one another.
The Apostle Paul writes:
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
(Romans 12:14-18 NIV)
Followers of Jesus: God isn’t looking to the elected officials of the USA to heal deep divisions. God is looking to you. As far as it depends on you, on this Veteran’;s Day, live at peace with everyone.
Written By: Christie Robbins