Memorial Day

Many of our fellow citizens have died in battle since July 7, 1944, even more died prior to that date. Most of them away from home, in lands whose culture is quite different from ours. My brother-in-law died on his way to bomb a land his ancestors left more than two centuries before. A land whose citizens had allowed leaders to assume unlimited powers and invade neighboring countries for ‘living room.’

Last year I was told by a pacifist that he was wrong to have participated in war. The pacifist quoted scripture, beginning with:

Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. (Matthew 5:38-39 KJV)

We do need to reflect on differing opinions, so I’m giving some thought and time to the concept that this gentlemen presented – and many believe to be true in all situations. And, I would look to God’s word for examples, too.

You see, I believe the entire Bible is God’s word and:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV)

What better example is the book of Esther?

Thus the Jews smote all their enemies with the stroke of the sword, and slaughter, and destruction, and did what they would unto those that hated them. (Esther 9:5 KJV)

That needs to be read after the previous eight chapters to understand the planning that went into genocide. The parallels to Hitler’s genocide exist. It would be proper, according to Esther 9:2, “to lay hand on such as sought their hurt.”

It is dangerous to lay hands on those seeking our hurt. Rather than the entire populace defending, soldiers are selected – with remaining citizens staying home to support them and maintain a solid national base. Weapons have been created to aid the soldiers in their job.

Is it the best way? No. But, right now it is the way mankind responds to those who hate their brothers enough to destroy them and their way of life.

Do we wish it were different? Yes. But, some will not negotiate, will not compromise, will not work toward the goals of allowing life and liberty for all mankind.

Will it be different? Not right now.

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. (Matthew 24:6-7 KJV)

Therefore I will continue, along with millions of others, to remember our losses. Young men who chose to honor their fellow citizens and served them, giving their lives for others that their country might live in freedom.

I’ll remember July 7, 1944, when John Clarence Blickensderfer, along with many of his crewmembers, died doing just that.  Because of them, all of them across the years, those who hate have not prevailed.