With the passing of Veterans' Day, we have had many reminders of the unsung heroes who put their lives on the line for our freedom every day, and of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to give their lives. They do not take lightly their call to duty, and keep it ever before them as they are prepared to do so for the good of others.

We salute and honor our men and women in the armed forces, and thank them for all they do to assure our safety and to keep this nation free. Our hearts go out to the families of those who never made it back. We honor these families for their sacrifice. We also salute the families of our servicemen and women who are still out there fulfilling their call to duty.

A call to duty is a choice that we do not make lightly. We must weigh the pros and cons and how it will affect our lives and loved ones. But ultimately a call to duty is a call to sacrifice. It may require us to be willing to set aside our own dreams and desires for the good of others, whether it be for a season or a lifetime.

There are many who have answered this call to duty yet have not been in military service. They were called to take on a duty they never planned or saw themselves doing. They may have had to give up much to answer the call, and we also salute and honor them for their compassion to answer a call they never expected.

These unsung heroes include men and women who have had to become caretakers to aging parents, special needs children, or who take on the responsibility to raise others' children. They include those who are caregivers to loved ones who have become house bound or bed-ridden because of an accident, stroke or illness.

Some have chosen the profession of caregiver such as home-health aides or Hospice workers. It takes a heart of love and compassion to serve humanity in this capacity. Whether it was a choice to purposely become a caregiver or whether it was simply answering a call to duty, this can become a thankless life that is exhausting, with few breaks for oneself.

If you find yourself fulfilling the duty of an unsung hero, you are more than likely weary and exhausted most of the time. The Bible encourages you in Galatians 6:9-10, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.”

Jesus encourages us in Matthew 25:40 that “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” The unsung hero may not receive a reward during this lifetime, but God sees every tear and hears every prayer, and His reward awaits you.

Hope Ministries is a Christian counseling center, and we are here to help. If you would like to speak confidentially with someone, give us a call at 482-5300.