USA (MNN) — November 11 is Veterans Day, an annual American
holiday honoring military veterans.
In 1919, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed an
Armistice Day. Seven years later, Congress passed a resolution asking the
President to issue another proclamation to set aside November 11 similarly.
In 1938, it became "a day to be dedicated to the cause
of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as Armistice
Day."
Sixteen years later, it emerged as a day to celebrate all
veterans, not just those who served in World War I.
Today, there are thousands of troops facing mortal threat on a daily basis. Many are serving in high conflict areas like Iraq,
Kuwait, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. The
love of Christ is bringing hope and peace, but the more traditional routes of sharing God's Word are
not as successful as are some of the more creative routes.
Troy Carl with Faith Comes By Hearing says the "iPod"
generation is positively responding to their military BibleStick. In fact, with the kind of response they've been seeing, "We really hope that
people will take this opportunity to sponsor a soldier, provide the pure
Scripture that meets their challenges and helps give them comfort in their time
of need," says Carl.
A BibleStick is a digital audio player loaded with an Audio
Drama New Testament, specially geared for combat zones. The response? "Over 22,000 military Bible sticks have been distributed through
chaplains all around the world, and it's having a tremendous impact. Of course,
now they're saying, 'Give us more!'"
Currently, more than 200 chaplains are using Military
BibleSticks in pre-deployment briefings, counseling sessions, weekly chapels,
and other spiritual services.
"Our soldiers told me they never imagined having an
Audio Bible," said an Army Chaplain at a staging base in Germany.
"They are able to listen to the Word of God while doing their missions. It is so
easy to carry and listen–anytime and anywhere. This little device is helping soldiers cope
with their issues and concerns during deployments."
Hundreds more have requested a Military BibleStick, only to find that they're
already gone. How can you help? Carl says,
"You can sponsor a soldier with a military stick for $25, and that
also includes our ministry providing an audio Bible on disk to their loved
one." The kit also comes with a response
card for service members to have New Testaments and KIDZ Bibles sent to their
families. Click here for more information.
