Revelation 21:4 says,

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

As we approach Veterans Day, I would like to share with you part of my story. On November 23, 2007, I raised my hand in front of an Army Colonel and an American flag and swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. I had just turned 33, and we were at war on terrorism. Three years later, I found myself in a combat zone thousands of miles from home. I left behind my wife, expecting our third child and my two sons to be the Chaplain for the 1-185th Aviation Batallion. I knew my tour would last one year, only being granted a 15 day leave to come home and rest and recuperate.

The deployment passed, and one year later, I stepped out of a plane (a lot thinner) to continue the life that I had left behind. I can remember seeing my wife, the embrace of my children, the tears, the hugs, the laughter, and most of all, relief. It was good to sit on my couch and watch college football.

In the book of Revelation, John tells us that one day, things such as war, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, child abuse, and all evil will be gone forever. Our God will wipe away all our tears, and death will be removed. I feel that, in a way, we are all on a deployment. We are not truly home, but one day we will step out of the plane and see the faces of those that love us most. I catch myself smiling each time I think about who is waiting on me. Until that day, let us do all we can to create our legacy and fulfill the mission Jesus entrusted in us. Thank you for letting me be a part of your journey.