"Just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28 (NRSV)
The movie Hacksaw Ridge is the true story of a conscientious objector, Desmond Doss, who joins the army during WWII. The story follows his early life and the obstacles he had to overcome to be accepted in the military, given his religious opposition to taking lives. He becomes a medic and then goes on to save 75 men in the Battle of Okinawa. That's the briefest description I can give without spoiling the movie.
Stories like that of Doss speak to us of service and selflessness. We give our thanks to all currently serving or who have served in our armed forces. Those who have not served cannot fully understand what your service has meant and the sacrifices you have made.
Jesus was a soldier sent on a dangerous mission to bring about peace. He served with the foreknowledge that he would die. However, his death was not the ending but only the beginning, for he conquered the thing we fear most. In his selfless act, he saved countless souls not in just one battle but for all battles and given us the hope of eternal life.
Precious Lord, thank you for the service of your Son Jesus Christ. We give thanks for his selfless sacrifice that ransomed us from certain death. Let us not take this cost lightly. May we carry it with us as we serve others and share the good news of Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
