My grandfather was a veteran, my father is a veteran, I have two uncles who are veterans, and my sister serves in the military. I am thankful for their service to our nation.
Veteran’s Day is a time to honor those who have served in the military, sacrificing their comfort, safety, and sometimes even their lives to protect and defend our freed
om. As we reflect on their courage and commitment, we’re called to remember that they have demonstrated some of the greatest virtues—strength, resilience, and a readiness to serve others, all values close to the heart of God. On this day, we honor our Veterans, but today is also an opportunity to think about what it means to find ultimate peace, hope, and salvation.
Veterans know what it means to Sacrifice
We celebrate our veterans because they are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our nation. As Christians, we believe that sacrifice is at the very core of the Gospel. Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for us, is the ultimate model of selflessness. John 15:13 reads, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Our veterans have lived this principle, putting their lives on the line to ensure the safety and freedom of people they may never meet. This remarkable act of courage mirrors Christ’s sacrificial love, and it’s a reminder of how deeply God values those who serve.
Veterans know the meaning of Courage
As we honor our veterans, we see their courage as a reflection of God’s heart. Many veterans have experienced battles and hardships that have deeply impacted them. They’ve faced challenges that require not only physical strength but mental and emotional resilience. Jesus offers comfort to all who are weary, including veterans who may be carrying unseen wounds. His promise in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,” is an invitation for everyone—especially those who have been on the front lines.
Veterans often look for the Peace of God
One of the deepest struggles many veterans face is finding inner peace. After witnessing and experiencing the harsh realities of war, it can be hard to find solace in everyday life. But true peace is something that only God can provide. Jesus offers us a peace that transcends understanding, a peace not based on circumstances but on His eternal love. In John 14:27, He assures us, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” As we celebrate our veterans, we pray that they find peace in Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
The Hope of Salvation
While Veteran’s Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of our military, it’s also an opportunity to share the hope of salvation. Just as these brave men and women fought for our earthly freedom, Jesus fought for our eternal freedom. The Bible tells us that He bore our sins on the cross, defeated death, and now offers us the gift of eternal life if we believe in Him. The freedom they fought for is a reminder of the freedom Jesus offers to every soul—a freedom from sin, guilt, and shame, and the chance to live forever with God.
If you’re a veteran, know that God loves you deeply and has a purpose for your life beyond your service. If you’ve never experienced the peace that comes from knowing Jesus, today could be the day that changes everything. We invite you to open your heart to Him, to allow His healing love to fill any wounds that life may have left. Whether you’re a veteran or someone who loves one, Jesus is ready to welcome you, to provide peace beyond understanding, and to grant you the gift of eternal life.
This Veteran’s Day, let’s thank God for our veterans and pray that they find healing, hope, and peace in Jesus. May their sacrifices remind us of the One who sacrificed it all to give us freedom from sin and the promise of eternal life.
