A Debt Paid in Full.

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“Greater love has no one than this,
that someone lay down his life for his friends.” 
John 15:13  New English Standard Version

This photo was taken at the western corner of the National World War II Memorial on the Mall in Washington, D.C.  It is one of many inscriptions expressing gratitude for the sacrifice made by so many for the greater good.

My husband, a veteran himself, and our daughter were blessed to recently serve as Honor Flight guardians for a group of veterans who flew to the capitol from West Lafayette, Indiana.  Many of the veterans on the trip were overwhelmed by emotion as they visited memorials dedicated to the wars in which they had served.  They found names of battles they fought in, and those of fallen comrades and relatives written on the walls and statues.  At times, they could not even bear to look at the monuments.

Veterans of war often suffer from survivor’s guilt:   knowing that members of their unit did not make it home, while they were one of the privileged few who did.  They struggle with why they were spared; whether their life has meaning; and the notion that they will never be able to repay those who sacrificed so they could live.

America has often answered the call to fight for the greater good around the world.  As I reflect upon this country’s freedoms afforded and safeguarded by past and present veterans, I also thank God that he sent His Son to make the ultimate sacrifice for humanity.

Christ paid the final price on the cross for our sin – a debt that we can never repay.  I often find myself questioning whether I have done enough … whether my contributions make a difference.   I can never repay what Jesus did for me, but He does not ask me to.  The debt has been paid in full.

Today, and every day, I will honor those who sacrificed for my freedom – in America and in my life.  Thank a vet, and thank God!

“For the wages of sin is death,
but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 6:23  English Standard Version

Photo and Text Copyright:   Darcia Kunkel