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Dedicated to the National Guard Soldiers and Troops deployed
around the world. Serving Our Country with Pride and Honor. May
God bless you and keep you. Adapted from the original, author
unknown
THE FINAL INSPECTION
The Guardsman stood, and faced his God, We know must come to
pass. He hoped his boots were shining, As brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, you soldier, For now I deal with you” “Have
you loved your enemies as yourself? And to My Church, have you
been true?"
"Not in trueness, Lord, I guess I really ain't. For freedom
fighters must carry guns, And can't always be a saint.”
I was gone an awful lot of Sundays, Lord And at times my walk
was weak. Sometimes my orders were ones of violence, Without the
turning of the cheek.
But, I’ve never took a penny, That wasn't mine to keep... Even
working overtime, Because the bills, you know, they got real
steep.
But, I’ve never passed one cry for help, Amidst a hot zone
firefight, Though now my body trembles with fear. In the
presence of your light.
I know I don't deserve a place, Within your kingdom here. I pray
the Lord, my soul to keep, And your mercy finds me near.
And should I find a place of rest, It needn't be so grand. But
if you turn your face away That too, My Lord, I understand.
There was a silence around the throne, Where saints do often
trod. At attention stood the Guardsman, For the judgment of his
God.
"Step forward now, you soldier, For you've borne your burden
well. March peacefully these streets of gold, You’ve done your
tour in hell." ~James Stevens~
Folks, as much as we care to admit it. It's the Military, not
the reporter who has given us the freedom of the press.
It's the Military, not the poet, who has given us the freedom of
speech.
It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures your right
to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
It's the Military who salutes the flag, fights beneath the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag.
So, if you care to offer the smallest token of recognition and
appreciation for the Military, please pass this along and pray
for our men and women who have served and are currently serving
our country. Along with their families who have sacrificed much
for the freedoms we all enjoy.
About the author:
James Stevens ‘Doc’ is an ordained minister and webmaster of www.bentoncounty.info. A
website serving the residents of Benton County Tennessee.
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