Hacksaw Ridge

On the recommendation of a friend who is also a deacon at church I just finished watching "Hacksaw Ridge."  Yes, I would recommend it too, even though the war fighting was challenging to watch. It certainly was inspiring.

This fellow enlisted in the war but was a consientous objector and refused to carry or touch a gun.  Reasons stemmed back to severe chaos at home. He wanted to be a medic, to help his comrades, not to kill.  

He was ostracized, belittled and snubbed until those in his own platoon saw how he had rescued many, many men because of his determination and valor.  His light really shined through.  His physical resources were nearly drained and when he was nearly at the end of his rope he prayed to God, not knowing what he was to do, until he heard the moans and calls of the wounded. 

He devised a way to lower them off the ridge and prayed to God, "help me to save one more person."  Repeatedly, again and again, "one more person." Have you ever wondered what your mission in life is?  

How do each of us know if we are doing God's will?  I know when I asked God this very question with my husband's declining health, a clear message came to me, "you take care of him in his old age."  It sounds kind of hokey but it was clear as day, directly into my heart and nothing I had to question. 

I know we might think this is an easy task because perhaps we tell ourselves, "well, I'm retired, I'm this or that" but perhaps life becomes hallow and we end up wandering around aimlessly. 

There are lots and lots out there that we can "do" even when we are limited and handicapped by blindness, limited mobility and other things. Have you prayed and really asked God, or the universe if you don't believe in God, where you can be a blessing to others in some way? 

Then after that, we must listen to hear what message may come.  The trick after this is to act on it. It might be as simple as picking up the phone to connect with someone who comes to mind, or write a note, or say a prayer for them.  Then again, it may involve becoming active in a group, church, the senior center. 

Hacksaw Ridge strikes me much deeper than just a war movie and the actions of one soldier. It is a real life example of how we can let our light shine in life, no matter the darkness, chaos and struggles around us.  Maybe just praying, "just let me help one person." God really is there for each of us.  How will you let your light shine? 

Courtesy of Pixabay