November 11, 2025
Today, we recognize all our men and women, living and dead, who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
This is not a celebration of war or military strength. Rather, it is an acknowledgement of individual courage, generosity, and patriotism. These are men and women who are willing to stand in the breach for the rest of us to protect our peace and freedom.
Yes, they are brave. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t frightened sometimes, or lonely, or discouraged about the course of international events. Our veterans may show us ribbons, or pictures, or tell proud stories now. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t pay a huge personal price for their years of service. So did their families.
One cannot avoid the fact that there is confusion today among Americans as our military is domestically deployed against unarmed citizens and refugees. Many consider the deployment to be politicized presidential overreach using our military as pawns. We have yet to acknowledge what damage this does to the reputation of our military, the respect earned for 250 years of selfless service, and the well-deserved patriotic pride of its members.
Our men and women in service have made a valiant choice. They deserve to be inspired by leaders who value and honor that choice. Their skills should be deployed in a manner that draws the respect of their countrymen and the world. And upon discharge, they deserve to have the healthcare, housing, and benefits they have earned.
However we feel about war or politics, to serve our country is an admirable contribution to the common good. So if you know a Vet, thank them today for what they have done for you and your family. And if you see a soldier, pilot, sailor, or marine in the airport or mall on this special day, say thanks and God bless you. They answered the call to stand up for everything you have the freedom to celebrate today.
Music: God Bless Our Veterans – Voice of the Lamb (lyrics below)
Come to me all who are weary and burdened
I will give you rest and comfort your soul
The Lord is close to those with broken hearts
He saves those crushed in spirit never apart
In the darkest hours when shadows fall
He carries the weight answering the call
With gentle hands He heals the pain
In His promise of peace we remain
God bless our veterans brave and true
In every trial He stands with you
Through the pain and the sorrow His love renews
With strength from above He sees you through
He mends the hearts that are torn and worn
In His gentle touch the wounded are reborn
Fear not for He is ever near
With His righteous hand casting away your fear
In the darkest hours when shadows fall
He carries the weight answering the call
With gentle hands He heals the pain
In His promise of peace we remain
God bless our veterans brave and true
In every trial He stands with you
Through the pain and the sorrow His love renews
With strength from above He sees you through
Praise be to our God source of all comfort
In every affliction His love never falters
With the comfort we’ve received we comfort too
In His everlasting love all things are renewed
God bless our veterans brave and true
In every trial He stands with you
Through the pain and the sorrow His love renews
With strength from above He sees you through
He mends the hearts that are torn and worn
In His gentle touch the wounded are reborn
God bless our veterans in His holy light.
Lavish Mercy 