Worthy of Remembrance

I can't imagine anyone who enlists expects to die as a result of their commitment to serve. To the contrary, I believe thoughts of proudly serving our country, protecting our families and freedom, possibilities of adventure, and the opportunity to use well the training and resources provided are the main motivating thoughts that fill the minds of trainees. Those were my thoughts. However, the reality of the possibility of paying the ultimate sacrifice never went away and I hoped I would be able to face it with courage and honor should it be required of me. I admire those on whom we reflect today who did.

Though I am no longer a soldier in the Army, I still maintain my military code of honor and duty through the Biblical calling I have accepted as a soldier engaged in spiritual warfare. While I never faced battle physically, I am a veteran in the spiritual realm. The battle is intense and there are many casualties I have mourned and continue to witness. Many in our army are discouraged, undisciplined, distracted from the fight or have deserted completely. Unlike serving in the American Army, I have no hope of survival as a Christian since I face certain death. However, despite present circumstances, the cause is guaranteed to be victorious as is my reward of a new body and eternal life. My mind is set on staying focused on my mission and the reality of the cost and importance of my service, that lives are in danger and depend on my performing well as I have been trained and empowered to do. I hope I will be remembered well by those who knew me as a hero of the faith, as an embodiment of the Savior, like those we remember today for what they did. I hope I will be honored before my Father when I meet him face to face to give account for the results of my mission. My greatest hope is to receive the highest Medal of Honor in heaven, the words spoken by my Father, "Well done!" Such honor is worth dying for. His glory is worth living for. So, for me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. I am one among the hosts of saints sent forth by God toward victory over the forces of darkness. May all I am, do and say be for his glory alone and worthy of remembrance among the other heroes of the faith.