While Memorial Day is set aside to remember, and honor, those men and women who have given their lives for our country, it seems fitting to also remember and honor those who are currently giving their all in answer to God’s call. Memorials are markers for remembrance, and it is fitting that we should erect them, but may we not withhold our gratitude until ears can no longer hear, but rather let our voices thank our servicemen and women who, as living memorials, are walking among us. This poem is for all who have served, who do serve, and who will one day serve.
In Service to the Lord
While all receive a calling, of one kind or another,
For some it bears a duty, a service to one’s brother.
In neighborhoods, communities, or far beyond the seas,
A call of such dimension, will keep one on his knees.
Praying to the Father, for wisdom, grace, and care;
Learning to depend upon the One who’s always there.
With one hand reaching up to God, the other out to man,
A heart conformed to service and to following God’s plan.
For all you’ve done, for all you’ve seen, for all that you have tried;
May we, your benefactors, salute you now with pride.
While God secures the heavens above with great angelic bands,
On earth He calls His children, through whom He guides His hand.
He uses men and women as extensions of His grace;
To show His love and mercy while we dwell in this place.
So thank you for your willingness to harken to this plea,
“As you’ve done unto these, my child, you’ve done it unto Me.”
So thank you for your servitude, for love no one can measure,
For choosing as your just reward the pledge of heaven’s treasure.
Walk tall, my friend, walk proud, walk true, walk faithfully secure,
It’s our turn now to make our stand, that freedom may endure.
“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” I Peter 2:4-5