Ultimate Sacrifice

This past Friday afternoon I just happened to be at the intersection of Industrial and Airport when the traffic was stopped by three Collin County Constable units. I sat there for awhile wondering what was going on. I thought that was a strange place to stop traffic for no apparent reason. After a minute or two the Constable units were replaced by McKinney police units and then a few motorcycle units drove by and I began to think to myself that something special must be going on, then about that time around fifty bikers with United States of America flags attached drove by. Then I saw the hearse and it hit me, this was the day that Army Pfc. Cody A. Board was coming home. I will never forget this moment in time. What a moving event to witness, the honoring of a young man who gave his life for his country.

Last year this young man was in High School just across the street from our church. He had his whole life ahead of him along with plenty of choices to make about his future. He chose to serve his country. He chose to protect our rights and freedoms as Americans. He chose to put himself in harms way so that you and me would not have to and so you and me could live our life in the way that we chose to live it. On October 4, 2010 Cody A. Board made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.

This scene is replayed all over our country from time to time (way too often). A young man or woman who has chosen to serve their country gives their life for their country and they come home in a flag draped coffin. There is an official escort; a full military funeral and the presentation of an American Flag to the parents or spouse along with the sincere appreciation from the Commander and Chief on behave of the nation. Then it’s over…except for the pain and memories of a loved one who has died fighting for a cause much greater than them.

I do not know the family of Cody Board, but I hope they know how much I along with you appreciate the service and sacrifice they have made. Freedom is not free. Freedom comes at great cost and sacrifice. Without men and women who love their country enough to fight for it and die for it we would not have a United States of America. This great nation of ours did not just happen. It happened because millions of men and women have pledged to serve, protect, and fight and if needed die for their country.

The freedom you and I have in Christ was not free either. The victory over death and the promise of eternal life with God came at great cost and sacrifice. For that I will be eternally thankful.

Once you understand the sacrifices made for your life and your eternal life you are never the same. The Stars and Stripes are no longer just a flag to be flown over ball fields and post offices. The Flag is a constant reminder of the high cost of freedom. To a greater degree every time I see a cross I am reminded of the high cost of spiritual freedom. I am reminded of the love Jesus has for me.

My prayer this day is one of thankfulness for all those who have made my life possible and for the One and Only who makes eternal life possible. May I live my life in such a way as to show true appreciation for both.

Love God. Go Love Others.