The Few, the Proud
We didn’t know what we walked into.
The smallish restaurant in Kerrville, Texas, “Grape Juice,” was packed and we didn’t realize it was filled to the brim with military veterans, celebrating the 167th anniversary of the United States Marines.
After we finished a delicious dinner, one of the military warriors popped up and led everyone in the Marines’ song:
From the Halls of Montezuma; To the shores of Tripoli; We fight our country’s battles; in the air, on land and sea….
We were standing in support of the Marines in the room who survived wars, who saw their comrades killed in battle, and who still had vivid memories of the fight. They shouted out the names of those who sacrificed their lives for their country. It was a moment that touched all of our hearts.
Then the leader of the group led all of us, still standing out of respect, in the official Marine prayer:
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.
Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me.
Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.
Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. AMEN
After the prayer, we lifted a toast to all those who served our country, I felt unworthy to be in the same room as these men and women. I only speak about spiritual battles, not physical war. I have never been in the front lines or face-to-face with an enemy. It was humbling to think about, and I’m not sure I’d be willing to take their place.
After this experience I thought about the riots going on around our country, protesting the election results. My word to those who damage property and shout criticism against President Elect Trump, “Would you be willing to take his place?”
Many worthy men and women never run for office because they understand the risks. It takes an extra dose of courage and love of country to jump into the front lines of government.
I am pleading with the disgruntled United States citizens; let’s give these new leaders a chance. Let’s remember the parts of the Marine prayer that says: “Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors…” and “Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom…”
Let’s stand in support of those who are willing to serve our country, whether in fox holes or in the White House. If we are Bible believing Americans, remember Romans 13:1-2 “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”
Let’s capture the same loyalty the Marine veterans exhibited in the tiny Kerrville restaurant, and embrace the motto of the United States Marines: “Semper Fidelis” which means:
“Always Loyal.”