Last Monday, during the Labor Day Parade, our veterans were especially honored. A friend told me the following story about one veteran who marched in the parade.
As the parade progressed through the streets, crowds lined the sidewalks on both sides, cheering for the passing floats and marching bands. As the veterans marched and rode by the cheers grew louder and louder, as the spectators voiced their appreciation for these American heroes.
For this one veteran it was all too much. Tears started pouring down his face and he began shaking with emotion. When someone asked him what was wrong, he replied, “They’re cheering for us. When we came home from ‘Nam; they threw things at us.”
Tears came to my eyes too when I heard this story. No matter what our personal views on Vietnam, the men and women who served there were doing their duty and deserve our respect and gratitude, not criticism or disdain.
In our dealings with one another and even with those we disagree with it is important to remember we “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 NIV). Instead of putting others down or criticizing them, we should, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
We all, whether we’re Vietnam vets or just Average Joe’s or Jane’s trying to make it through another day at work, could do with a little encouragement. In our dealing with others today let’s strive to follow the example of Christ, who came not “to condemn the world, but to save the world.” (John 3:17).
Our time here is short. Let’s not waste it putting someone else down. Instead, let’s make the most of it by treating each other with love and kindness, “encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25).
God bless and have a Happy Sabbath!