Today and tomorrow as the country observes Veterans Day, my mind goes to my brother Ezra, members of the church I serve, and others I know who have given military service. It is a grave thing to be empowered with deadly force that one might be called on to use against other human lives. Even in situations where morality would justify limited violence to defend human rights, entering armed conflict means accepting spiritual jeopardy on behalf of civilians and the values of one’s country. Images from Gaza and Ukraine show us all the awfulness of war, especially its consequences to noncombatants and God’s creation. These scenes echo what many of America’s veterans have experienced or caused. The Americans we honor with this holiday carry such grievous memories within their souls. Often, their bodies and minds bear the scars of military service as well. I’m grateful for the service of military chaplains who accompany veterans in the lifelong burden-bearing that’s asked of them on the other side of military service.

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