As I approached the soda fountain, I saw him coming from the other direction. He was an older gentleman. His polo shirt bore the inscription “Vietnam Veteran,” and his hat was blazoned with “Purple Heart Recipient.”
I grew up in a family that was taught to respect veterans. My maternal grandfather served in the Army in World War II (twice, actually…that’s a long story…). My paternal grandfather served in the Merchant Marines, spending some time in the Philippines to which he returned years later to evangelize. Veterans, and their families, have made tremendous sacrifices for the freedoms available to us every day. So, I proceeded to say what I always say when I encounter a former member of the military in public.
“Thank you for your service.” I had said it hundreds of times before. This was the first time someone had responded this way…
“You were worth it,” he responded.
I was speechless. It was unexpected; and, a bit overwhelming. I had never considered that I would be worthy of the sacrifice that individual had made.
John 3:16 tell us “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” God thought I was worth it. God thought you were worth it.
My prayer, for all of us, is that one day, we stand in judgment and Jesus looks at us and says, “You were worth it.”
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