Silver Spur Chaplain's Corner

 

Courtesy of DVA

Veterans Day Message, 11 Nov 09:

I intended to write down a few thoughts of my own but when I saw this I decided against that and instead want to pass along to all of the Silver Spurs the sentiments expressed in this poem and the words following it. God bless you all on this Veteran's Day.

 

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

'Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you ?
Have you always turned the other cheek ?
To My Church have you been true?'

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
'No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

'Step forward now, you soldier,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell.'

~Author Unknown~

 

 

It's the Military, not the reporter who has given us the freedom of the press. It's the Military, not the poet, who has given us the freedom of speech. It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It's the Military who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag.

If you care to offer the smallest token of recognition and appreciation for the military, please pray for our men and women who have served and are currently serving our country and pray for the families of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.

Ed Roffe
Silver Spur Chaplain

 

The History of Veterans Day - Courtesy of the U.S. Army

 

 

Memorial Day Message, 25 May 09:

Memorial Day! Just what does it mean to you? To most of America it is the day to pack up the kids, the cooler, the barbeque etc. and head for the lake or campsite for a day of getting away from it all. For those of us who belong to the fraternity comprised of those who have served our country in time of peace or conflict, it is much more. It is that sacred day when we cease from our normal everyday tasks and take the time to remember with solemn hearts those who gave the last full measure in defense of freedom and democracy.

I know many of you, as do I, have memories of someone who died while in the service of his or her country. To them we give the full measure of our gratitude and pray God's comfort, peace and blessing on those of their families who remain. I have been reading about David in the Old Testament. He was a soldier's soldier and yet he too had a need for something more than this life could give him. In ISamuel 30:6 the last part of the verse reads, "And David found strength in the Lord his God."

I pray that each of you this past memorial day were able to look beyond the trials and tears of this world and find strength in God.

Thanks,

Ed Roffe
Silver Spur Chaplain

Since 26 May 2008