Sad Story

Bowe Bergdahl’s story is a sad one. He has been charged with leaving his combat post and misbehavior before the enemy. In the days ahead as that narrative plays out we will know, perhaps, what happened. I can’t help but be concerned for his parents and any other family as they face these revelations.

Bergdahl fell into Taliban hands in Afghanistan in 2009 after he reportedly became disillusioned with the war and walked away from his combat outpost. He was released after five years in captivity in a controversial exchange for five detainees being held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The Army announced Wednesday that he is being charged with desertion and misbehavior before the enemy. A preliminary hearing could lead to a full-fledged court martial. (TIME)

His story appears to parallel that of Believers and their relationship to the Church of Jesus Christ. Many have become “disillusioned” and chosen to walk away from the Scriptural mandate for Believers to support, care for, encourage, and edify the Body of Christ. The command of Christ for His children to “llove one another” (a very specific discipline) is falling on deaf ears.

There are penalties facing Mr. Bergdahl should he be found guilty. The same is true for Believers who refuse to “walk in the light.” I am grateful everyday, as should be every Believer, for the GRACE of God.