The Text

Happy Veteran’s Day!

 

I love the story of a young man who was away at college and wanted a little extra money for the weekend. He knew his father had just learned how to send text messages on his cell phone, so he thought he’d send his father a message. The text read, “Dad. No mon. No fun. Your son.” The father texted back, “Too bad. So sad. Your dad.”

That’s a funny story. As a father, I can completely relate. But it is a good thing we don’t all respond like the father, all the time, especially when we see a need. We all have to make decisions about how we use our time, our energy, and our money. But when we can be generous, beautiful things happen.

Let us pray: God of Grace, you give to us beyond measure, and we don’t have to look far to notice the many blessings in our lives.

On this Veteran’s Day, we thank you for the women and men who when called to serve, did not respond like the Father in the story – but who responded instead with self-giving sacrifice. Today we entrust each and every veteran – along with those who currently serve – to your gracious care. Help us as a nation to take care of them and to serve them as they have served us. May they know our gratitude and your peace. We remember that you have blessed all of us to be a blessing to others. Give us eyes to see the need around us and hearts to respond. Amen.