Tag: Jesus

Citizen Soldier

Not talking about the Three Doors Down rock song Citizen Soldier, or our Country’s National Guard, for whom the song is dedicated.

Talking about all the active duty men and women military personnel I’ve seen this week. Orlando to Atlanta, Atlanta to Columbia, Columbia to Atlanta, and Atlanta to Dallas.

Decided, in the spirit of giving, to not only give thanks internally, but to give thanks externally.

So I awkwardly asked how best to show appreciation for their efforts. They all said basically the same thing.

A simple thank you means a lot.

And so that’s what I’ve been doing, going only a little out of my way (that’s all it takes), to thank each and every one I pass.

The Lord works in mysterious ways. One of the service men, heading back to Iraq and leaving behind a wife and three children (16, 10, 6) at Christmas time, wound up being an angel for me about five minutes later.

Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941.

At dinner last night, a friend reminded me that the day before was the anniversary of the attack at Pearl Harbor. This came up because I had mentioned that John Lennon was assassinated December 8, 1980.

I can’t explain to you why, but I felt particularly stupid for remembering a rock star milestone, but not an American milestone.

Well, actually, I hadn’t remembered John Lennon’s death. Was reminded of that by a Facebook friend. Anyway, I had a spiritual moment that gently reminded me that the world has always been a tough, uncertain place.

It prompted me to silently, and discreetly, count my blessings and give thanks for what we have today.

From Wikipedia: Despite numerous historical precedents of unannounced military action, the lack of any formal declaration prior to the attack led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to proclaim “December 7th, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy”.

And while it’s proper to remember American milestones, it’s even greater to remember another day that will live on forever – Christmas.

Advent 2009

Advent begins today. Click here if you’d like a refresher on Advent.

Advent, preparing for the coming of the Christ Child.

Is there anything more exciting, more joyful, than the anticipation of the coming of a savior?

Seriously. Anything?

I think not. At least not in my tiny brain.

This year, a promise was made to be more prepared than ever before. To:

  • Be fully present
  • Be fully alive
  • Be fully joyful
  • Be fully hopeful
  • Be eternally grateful
  • Be “bow-down-on-my knees” humble

But that’s just me. What and or how are you preparing?