This Sunday marks the 100
th
anniversary of the Armistice signing that ended World War I. It also marks the 99
th
time that our country has collectively celebrated the event now known as Veterans Day. It is only appropriate then, that we pause to remember those men and women of the armed forces who have defended our freedom and our very ability to gather together this Sunday, and every Sunday, to freely worship our Lord. In keeping with that recognition, we will join with other churches in the area to remember the peace that came about during the 11
th
hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918.
There is something captivating to me about the term veteran. The moniker itself bears a sense of admiration and pride. To be a veteran at something demands respect. It brings my mind to another 11 – the 11
th
Chapter of Hebrews. Hebrews 11 contains the most complete treatise on faith to be found in the Bible. Most notably, it contains the biographical sketches of faithful people – oft termed the “Faith Hall of Fame.” If you have spent any time in church, then you have heard the faith of those Old Testament veterans of the faith. It is inspiring to read about the faithfulness of God to those who were faithful to him.
I want you to note that this list is not merely presented as a museum of the past. The author of Hebrews challenges us to see these veterans as a part of a great cloud of witnesses with which you can participate. Those whom we admire are not capable of more than we ourselves could do. The same Spirit of God that indwelt them also dwells in you! This Sunday, we celebrate Veterans Day to honor our military, but I suggest we also celebrate veterans of faith. In part, by partaking in the Lord’s Supper this Sunday where we celebrate God’s community of faith. Additionally, we will gather back at 5:00 p.m. for an ordination service for newly elected deacons – people who we also believe will one day be counted as veterans of the faith. With all of that, I look forward to a meaningful time with you this Sunday.
Expecting His Best,
Stephen V. Allen
Senior Pastor
