The Daily Devotional
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Faithful to the Call: Honoring Vietnam War Veterans
No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13)
Introduction
March 29 is recognized as National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a time to honor those who served and sacrificed during a divisive and painful period in American history. Many veterans returned home not to parades and gratitude but to protest and rejection. Yet, their service was a testament to selfless sacrifice—a reflection of Christ’s own words in John 15:13.
Reflection
In the jungles of Vietnam, soldiers leaned on one another, understanding that their survival often depended on the man next to them. They stood in the gap, risked their lives, and carried wounded comrades through fire and chaos. Their acts of courage were not just about duty; they were about love—love for their brothers in arms, love for their country, and love that endured hardship beyond the battlefield.
A Vietnam veteran once shared a story of how his friend threw himself on a grenade to save his unit. In that moment, without hesitation, he embodied the greatest love—laying down his life for his friends. This kind of love mirrors Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Jesus did not hesitate; He willingly gave His life so that we might live.
The Vietnam War was painful for many, but within its trials, we see a profound example of what it means to live out Christ’s words. Whether in war or in daily life, we are called to selflessness, to stand for others, and to live out the love of Christ through sacrifice and service.
Application
1. Honor a Veteran Today – If you know a Vietnam veteran, take time to thank them for their service. A simple word of appreciation can bring healing.
2. Live with Sacrificial Love – Jesus calls us to lay down our lives, not necessarily in death but in how we serve, forgive, and love others selflessly.
3. Pray for Healing – Many veterans carry unseen scars. Pray for their peace, restoration, and for those still seeking healing from the wounds of war.
Conclusion
On this National Vietnam War Veterans Day, let us remember and honor those who served. Their sacrifices remind us of the depth of love Christ calls us to. As we reflect on John 15:13, may we also be inspired to live sacrificially in our daily lives, extending grace, kindness, and gratitude to those who have given so much.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we lift up all Vietnam War veterans today, thanking You for their courage, sacrifice, and endurance. May they find peace in Your love, healing for their wounds—both seen and unseen—and the honor they deserve. Teach us to live with the kind of selfless love You demonstrated through Jesus Christ. Help us to be people of gratitude, compassion, and service. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who laid down His life for us. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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