Traditionally, the soldiers and military personnel have their role in advancing civilization, culture, and religion.  Much of world history has been shaped by wars.

According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies, 20.5 million people — or one out of every 330 – were serving in the armed forces in 2009.[1]  While China has the largest miiitary, the United States of America and the NATO forces have the largest overseas presence — sending their troops far and wide.  Just consider that on March 1 of this year (2010) 301,072 United States of America military personnel were stationed in foreign territory. [2] These people who serve their country overseas are also migrants who are far away from home.

I wonder, how many devoted followers of Jesus are among the soldiers? 

Many Christians have been inspired by the devotional writings of Oswald Chambers, The Outmost for His Highest?  Did you know that he wrote many of these when he was YMCA Director in Egypt?  Did you know that he preached to the multitudes of soldiers during the World War I, particularly to soldiers deployed in North Africa, and the Middle East?  My Utmost for His Highest is actually a compilation of Chambers’ sermons to students and soldiers.

Oswald Chambers understood the pain, the hurts, the tragedy and sufferings that come with conflicts and wars.  It was in this context that he ministered to the “diasporas of the battle field”.

We need to see more of Oswald Chambers in today’s regional conflicts and war.  Let us pray for the salvation of the soldiers.  Pray for their safety and protection.  Pray for their loved ones left behind at home.  Let us pray that many soldiers represent the Kingdom and be true peace makers for the highest glory of God. 

The Lausanne Movement seeks to bring the Whole Gospel to the Whole World, including to diasporas in the battlefield.

*Sadiri Joy Tira (D.Min., D.Miss.) is the LCWE Senior Associate for Diasporas

 

[1]As cited in http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2010/01/26/quiz_how_many_people_worldwide_serve_in_the_military

[2] [United States of America] Department of Defense:  ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PERSONNEL STRENGTHS BY REGIONAL AREA AND BY COUNTRY (309A), MARCH 31, 2010.  Available at http://siadapp.dmdc.osd.mil/personnel/MILITARY/miltop.htm.  Accessed October 9, 2010.