“Thank You”
John Fischer

There is a commercial currently running that has no spoken words, only the words “Thank You” appearing at the very end over a blank screen followed by the logo of the sponsor. The commercial pictures American troops in desert fatigues carrying their gear through an airport. Suddenly a lonely handclap is joined by another and another while others strain to see what is going on. Soon the whole airport is up on their feet applauding as the surprised soldiers move through the gathering crowd. The camera then scans the troops who never planned on being in a parade, and finds on their faces a mixture of embarrassment, gratitude and pride. Suddenly everyone is walking taller and lighter in their step. It’s a scene that in 60 seconds captures an incredible amount of emotion, and regardless of one’s views on the current confrontation in Iraq, it is able to cut through ambiguity and get right to the commitment and sacrifice of soldiers who are simply doing what they do in the service of their country.

It’s basically a pretty thankless job that soldiers perform especially in the current political climate of uncertainty. And yet they give their best years, and in many cases, their lives, for this cause. The sponsors of this commercial got it right. The leaders and decision-makers get all the press, when the soldiers are the people who need to be recognized for who they are and what they do.

Those who serve in the Lord’s army are no different. They don’t do it for the applause, but they certainly could use some now and then. It’s only right and proper to acknowledge those who serve the kingdom of God with enthusiasm and consistency. Every fellowship has them. Of course we are all made to serve Christ in some way, but some are particularly gifted in the area of service, and that’s just it: they’ll do it whether they get recognition or not. They’re not doing it for that. In fact, when you give them recognition, they look a little surprised and embarrassed because they just never thought along those lines.

Think of those you know who serve like this consistently and sometimes thanklessly, and plan on how you can applaud their actions and affirm their personhood. It’s true, they don’t need it, but I bet they will walk a little taller and lighter in their step as a result.

PDL