\Valor denotes boldness and determination when encountering great danger, reflecting courage and resilience in one's character amidst the most demanding and challenging situations, circumstances, and people. With over 20 years of active duty service in the Air Force, seven of which were with the Wyoming National Guard, I honorably retired in 2005. The same year, Governor Tim Walz (Democratic Vice President Nominee) retired as a guardsman. Like Command Sergeant Major Walz, I was also a First Sergeant who understood the victories and challenges of that particular role and responsibility. My journey to understanding valor was not without its trials and tribulations, but it was through these experiences that I gained a deep respect for any honorable retired military service members. Their service is to be commended and much appreciated!
Understanding the concept of valor is crucial, as it is not just a term associated with the military. It embodies individuals' heroic courage and bravery when faced with treacherous situations. Valor can manifest in everyday life, representing the courage to stand up for one's beliefs and take action to confront difficult situations. It was Jesus, in his words to everyday people, who said, "Fear not" (Matthew 10:28 | 14:27), planting the seed of valor to any person who dared to stand for what is right, just, and fair in God's perspective of love, character, and service (Proverbs 2:9). This is a concept that resonates with all of us, regardless of our background or beliefs.
The concept of valor is observable in various situations, including military courage, first responders, historical figures, everyday actions, and particularly in leadership during challenging times. When referring to "crisis," this pertains to influencers or leaders guided by either life-affirming principles or those of good and evil. A leader who directs, aligns, and promotes a cause based on life-affirming principles (the Tree of Life, symbolizing life and goodness) rather than those of death (the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, symbolizing moral ambiguity and destruction) demonstrates valor. The issue at hand is leaders who align themselves with the Tree of Death but claim to represent eternal life, irrespective of their affiliations, are not persons of valor but cowards, no matter how many medals, scars, or stories one may have.
To understand if one truly embodies valor, one must engage in self-reflection and ask objectively, "Am I for God’s perspective about life, and am I rightly, justly, and fairly pursuing it as an awe-inspiring intelligent God expects His creation to do?" This reflective process is crucial in understanding and embodying valor. Jesus said, "He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters (Matthew 12:30)." Even though people may perceive valiant acts, it’s not valor unless the premise is based on beliefs and actions founded on the most significant principle of all time: “In God We Trust.”
Regardless of your stance on Governor Walz's actions, it is important to consider your understanding of valor before passing judgment. Once you can see the whole picture and adequately discern good and evil, you will see what is wise and foolish. So, when you look at the bigger picture of valor, what's your answer about valor: stolen or represented by a person of valor? Despite any controversy, Governor Walz's actions represent the true spirit of valor, again, one way or another. I know my answer; what's yours?
Pastor Drake