Air Force veteran and current Indiana State Police officer, Ryan White, (also part of OVCF), spoke at the memorial on Labor Day for the 13 fallen soldiers in Afghanistan. I liked what Ryan said so I asked for a copy of his notes. Here is some of what he said:
“These men and women epitomized the definition of Duty, Sacrifice, and Heroism. I want to take a closer look at the meaning of those three words.
- Duty– The force of moral obligation.
- Sacrifice– An act of giving up something valuable for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.
- Heroism– Conduct especially as exhibited in fulfilling a high purpose or attaining a noble end.
The word noble in that definition sure rings true when describing these young men and women. They were there to help evacuate Americans and Afghans from certain slaughter from the Taliban regime. What could possibly be more noble, than risking their lives for someone else’s? “
Ryan said more but those hold the weight. We are grateful for these men and women. But do you see Someone else who is pictured in those three words?
Here…let me help you…it begins with a J…ends in an S…and has a ESU in the middle. The most heroic, sacrificial, and noble person who ever lived.
“Father, may I be like Jesus if ever called to be (outside of living a daily life for Him).”
Putting another’s life ahead of your own is the very essence of what God calls us to do daily. The men and women who put their lives on the line and pay with the ultimate sacrifice take it to the ultimate level.
Let’s not forget those who have fallen, who have sacrificed the ultimate sacrifice. However, let us remember that we to can live out that sacrifice daily through our actions and our own sacrifice of selfless actions for others.
Very insightful comment Ryan. As Christ-followers we do need to remember to live out the sacrifice Jesus made for us in service to others.
Yes, Jesus certainly does embody all those qualities, Bill, and I’m continuing to pray for the families who lost such brave loved ones on that fateful day. And may I conform more and more to all that Jesus embodies.
Blessings!
What great prayers those are martha.