Last Ounce of Courage (August 15th)

Wednesday August, 15th

Yesterday, I attended an advanced screening of “The Last Ounce of Courage”. It’s a film produced by Veritas – with emphasis on Faith, Family and Freedom. Admittedly, not all films in this genre are the most “stimulating”. Their budgets don’t typically allow for big name actors nor for mind-blowing pyrotechnics. However, the story and the meaning were highly impactful. I didn’t see a dry eye around me. 

One scene toward the end was particularly hard to watch – but it greatly illustrated the price paid for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. These are freedoms we too often take for granted. I am so grateful we live in a country where we are free to share our opinions; free to share our beliefs; free to dance; free to choose our vocation; elected officials; where to live and how to spend our money. I pray that these freedoms are not ever compromised – but little by little, our freedoms seem to be in increased jeopardy. 

God, please help us to recognize what an amazing gift we have here in the United States of America. Thank you too, for the countless men and women who gave their lives for this country. Let us not lose reverence, care and concern for their families left behind. May we always remember – and never forget, that Freedom is far from free and never let us fail to recall the debt we have to those who gave all.

While the film - and my point, is one of a patriotic nature, I cannot overlook the freedom we have as followers of Jesus. Those freedoms we enjoy as Americans, are hugely significant – but not eternal. The forgiveness available to us, the peace accessible, and the promise of eternity in Heaven are ours. These liberties came with a great price – one that changed history, and divided time - and one that will change our future forever.

Time is fleeting. I’m grateful I came into this understanding before my last breath. For those family and friends who have done the same, I am so grateful. Long after we leave this planet, we will be together. God, please don’t let my other loved ones close their eyes today for the last time - without having accepted Jesus into their hearts. For the ones who still doubt, help them over the threshold into Salvation. 

May others see through my life and others – that you love us all and can use us in your greater plans, regardless of where we came from; our "pedigree"; foolish choices and our own inadequacies. I pray that onlookers will see it’s not about “rules” and being “against” causes and positions. Our faith has gotten a bad name in some circles – unfortunately, justifiable. Break those spirits of condemnation for we are not the ones who are to condemn. Help others to see joy, fun,laughter, and care and compassion in action, as integral components of the Christian life. Help doubters to see us as loving people and not ones who ostracize – we aren’t all like that. Unfortunately, many of the ones who are just seem to have louder voices and greater platforms.

Thank you for making the way for us available…..but these words of thanks seem so insignificant for One who would die for me. May my life and my attitude praise You all my days and bring glory to your name.