Some believe the phrase, “Thank You for Your Service”, originated following the deployment of American forces during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. Others affirm that the usage of the phrase became more prominent following 9/11 as America became more willing to recognize the sacrifices of those sacrificing their time, energy, finances, family alliances, and personal faith to keep freedom alive and well in this region of the world. Still others affirm it may originate as far in the past connected to Armistice Day of 1938. In some fashion, regardless of origin, every man, woman, boy, or girl who has served should be commended for their participation.
Nonetheless, there has been some cynicism about the usage of such phrases. Some note these expressions have become like “sounding brass” due to overuse and disingenuousness in some commentators. These mostly come from those who hold reservations against war and warring constructs around the world (Cincinnati Enquirer, 10 November 2024). Editor Paul Allen states, “(It) is almost a way for civilians to massage away some of the guilt at not participating themselves”. There always seems to be a battle between those who do and those who don’t!
Have you ever noticed there are distinct similarities among those who commit themselves to fighting “spiritual warfare” and the components of those who argue for and against human conflict? One, war has raged around the globe since the beginning of time (Genesis 4:8, NKJV). We should all understand that the God of All Love stands firm against the taking of human life (Exodus 23:7). Second, our Heavenly Father understands the heart of man can be murderous and cause the loss of human life both physically and spiritually (Matthew 5:21-26). It is THIS matter which the Lord hates most significantly! Solomon records, “These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren” (Proverbs 6:16-19). If God sees the previous actions as deplorable, then why would a Christian participate in these activities? They either do not know or they reject the fact that He should and needs to be the Lord of their lives (1 Samuel 26:24). Thus, what is the solution? Maybe we just need to thank one another for the work that is being done. We never compete with the world, the military, or one another; we just aim to show our appreciation for those who take on and proliferate the work of the Lord.
In some ways, it is simple: our membership in the Lord, like our service to any earthly organization, such as the military, needs to be marked by genuine service. It happens according to the Doctrine of Christ, designed to renew our minds towards whom we hold our dedication. Paul states we should be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). A refurbished mind leaves a previous world of doubt, sorrow, and sin, turning towards God in its “new walk” (Acts 3:19). Therefore, their actions NOW distinguish a renewed commitment in service in the right way, due to the right ownership, and producing what Christ demands from all his Brethren: bearing fruit (Matthew 3:8, 7:17-19, Mark 4:20, Luke 6:43, John 15:5). As laborers for Christ, we are no longer to linger and divest ourselves in ways which do not bring suitable fruit for the Kingdom, but rather enjoin ourselves to the work which is our cause and pleasure, this is why we should be able to acknowledge those who spiritually struggle for the benefit of the kingdom, with the lingering phrase, “Thank You For Your Service” and mean every single word. Think about these things, and God Bless.
Dr. Archie R. Green, Ed.D.