We Stand On Your Shoulders

2 Timothy 4:7

When I was just a boy I remember standing on the shoulders of my father as we watched the parade go by.  He was my foundation.  On my own my view was limited, but on his shoulders I could see it all.  Not too many years ago my kids stood on my shoulders…and not too many years from now my grandchildren will stand on their shoulders.  That’s how it works.

            I’m still standing on my father’s shoulders…he’s 86 and sick but he taught me well.  I also stand on the shoulders of my mother who’s been in Heaven a few years.  She pointed me in the right direction, held my hand as a boy, and prayed for me as a man.  Oh that I could be such a father to my son and daughter.

            Timothy was standing on the shoulders of Paul.  Paul’s course was coming to an end.  He was in jail, but he was leaving behind tracks for Timothy to walk in.  The path Paul walked had been weary and winding…but fulfilling to say the least.  He had no regrets as he faced the end.

            Each of us, who enjoy the freedoms and joys of being an American, is standing on the shoulders of a veteran who served their country faithfully.  Many of them gave of their time, were wounded, away from family for months at a time, and many even gave their life…that I could enjoy a good life in these United States of America.  There’s much wrong in America today…but there’s so much more right about this land of the free – made possible by the grace of God.

·      Timothy learned about Courage.  Paul said he fought.  He stood for what was right and against what was wrong.  He stood up and spoke up.  He stood out and stepped out.  

·      Timothy learned about Commitment.  Paul said he finished.  He was running his final lap, writing his last chapter.  His focus was not on the crowds but Christ.  He was finishing up knowing he’d soon be taken up.  He’d been a good soldier…

·     Timothy learned about Completion.   Paul said he kept the faith.  He didn’t give up, give in, or turn back.  He didn’t stray, strut, stoop, or stop.  He preached one message – Jesus and he knew soon his faith would become sight.  He was eager. 

Psalm 33:12 says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord…”  While that verse wasn’t written to or about the United States, it applies to any nation that seeks to put God first.  To all our veterans who have served to protect our freedom…and most of all the freedom to believe in and follow Christ – You are our heroes and we stand on your shoulders.  Thank you.