The final inspection

The final inspection

The soldier stood and faced God
Which must always come to pass
He hoped his shoes were shining
Just as brightly as his brass
> Step forward now, you soldier
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true ?<
The soldier squared his shoulders and said

... No Lord, I guess I ain't
Because those of us who carry guns
Can't always be a saint
I've had to work most Sundays
And at times my talk was tough
And sometimes I've been violent
Because the world is awfully rough
But I never took a penny
That wasn't mine to keep
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep
And I never passed a cry for help
Though at times I shook with fear
And sometimes, God, forgive me
I've wept unmanly tears
I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fears
If you've a place for me here, Lord
It needn't be so grand
I never expected or had too much
But if you don't, I'll understand...

There was a silent all around the Throne
Where the saints had often trod
As the soldier waited quietly
For a judgment of his God.

>>>Step forward now, you soldier
You've borne your burdens well
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets
You've done your time in Hell<<<

Prayer:
Lord hold our troops in Your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen.