Our Marine
Our Marine
Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy. (Prov. 31:9)
The day my husband and I saw our son leave for boot camp was a bittersweet mixture of pride, sadness, and fear. Alex grew up with a strong sense of right and wrong. He always stuck up for the underdog and defended the weak. Now, all grown up, he was willing to put his life on the line to defend the cause of justice and liberty for people he has never met and to ensure our freedom here at home.
Several months later our Marine in his military buzz cut was on his way to Afghanistan. “I’ll be OK, Mom,” Alex said in a recent phone call. He couldn’t possibly know the hours I’d already spent on my knees, pleading for his safety and asking our Father for His divine protection.
Military doctors gave Alex every immunization imaginable and took a sample of his DNA. He was issued a helmet, a Kevlar (bullet-proof) vest, and an M16. So while every earthly precaution is taken to assure Alex’s safety and well-being, there are no guarantees. Only God can truly protect him.
While we wait for Alex’s return, we pray for the Lord’s protection, wisdom, and blessing on our son as well as others serving our country. As Americans, we have the privilege of living in a country where we enjoy unparalleled freedom. And to protect our freedom, brave men and women are serving in all branches of the military across the globe. We owe them and their families a debt of gratitude.
If you know of someone who has a loved one serving our country, ask what you can do to help, especially during an extended absence. Pray for the men and women in our military and their families.