Did They Die So We Would Be Divided? (By Gary Patterson)

 

The Christian Journeyman eZine 

Pastor Gary Patterson 

DID THEY DIE SO WE WOULD BE DIVIDED? 

By Gary Patterson Original Post Date - 5/24/2021 

1 Corinthians 1:10-13 

 *"I got my education in the Marine Corps, where I led a platoon of 65 marines in Iraq. It's where I learned that, no matter your background, we all wear the same uniform. It's where I learned that leaders eat last, after their men, and that no one gets left behind. It's where I found the spirit of common purpose that makes our Country great. So when the pundits say we have nothing in common with the other side, I don't buy It." 

 The question I have for you this Memorial Day week-end is this: Did those who wore the uniform, and died for the freedoms we have, die so we would be divided? 150 years ago the first shots were fired in the battle of Fort Sumter, marking the start of the American Civil War. This Nation has experienced division before, and has reaped the severe consequences of death and destruction. 

 Our American veterans did not serve and die so we would be a divided nation, torn apart by power and prejudice. The American flag that is draped over every soldier's coffin, is a symbol of freedom, sacrifice, and unity. This may offend some, but we are still to be "One Nation Under God." We are to be as the little chorus sings: "Red and yellow, black and white, we are precious in His sight." Are we precious in one another's sight? 

 The Apostle Paul told the church at Corinth, that they should: "All speak the same thing, that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." (1 Cor. 1:10) This is the way it is to be in the church, and this is the way it is to be in America. Is it Possible? Our veterans served together, acting on a common training, a common discipline, a common reliance on each other to accomplish the tasks assigned, and to get each other home. And for many, a common faith in God to help them serve and survive. 

 Is it possible to not be divided? Ask a veteran? GP 

 * Daniel McCready: A Marine Corps Veteran, and clean energy entrepreneur, running for U.S.Congress in North Carolina's 9th District. (Time Magazine, November 11, 2017) Picture Quote: Admiral Chester W. Nimitz 

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