MEMORANDUM | Support to Veterans and Their Families
To: The Global Church and State
From: The Messiah Reigning in Bowie, MD
Subject: Addressing Social Determinants for Veterans and Offering Support to Veterans and Their Families
Date: November 10th) 2024 נובמבר
Greetings in the Name of יהוה (YHWH) שלום עליכם (Shalom Aleichem),
Our scriptures remind us, “כבד את אביך ואת אמך (Honor your father and your mother), that your days may be long in the land which יהוה (YHWH) your God gives you” (Exodus 20:12). Just as we are called to honor our fathers and mothers, so are we called to honor those who have served and sacrificed for the welfare of nations. Veterans worldwide embody a sacred covenant — one of service, defense, and sacrifice. Yet many veterans find themselves vulnerable, facing social determinants that undermine their well-being and threaten their families’ stability.
In the spirit of the נביאים (prophets) and in the wisdom of the משיח (Messiah), I call upon every leader in the global church and state to strengthen our commitment to veterans, focusing on the holistic and proactive support of social determinants of health for these dedicated souls.
Key Social Determinants Impacting Veterans
1. Economic Stability: Many veterans face financial instability post-service, which affects their access to essential needs. Scriptures emphasize the importance of justice and provision, as it is written: “וכי ימוך אחיך ומטה ידו עמך והחזקת בו (If your brother becomes poor, and his hand cannot support him), you shall uphold him” (Leviticus 25:35).
2. Health and Well-Being: The physical and mental scars of service often lead to chronic illness and depression. We must be like the Good Samaritan, extending care and healing to those who need it most (Luke 10:33–34). Our spiritual and medical resources must prioritize veterans’ unique health challenges, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
3. Education and Employment Opportunities: Proverbs teaches us, “חנוך לנער על פי דרכו (Train up a child in the way he should go), and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). We must open educational doors and vocational pathways for veterans and their families, restoring purpose and prosperity through meaningful work.
4. Social and Community Support: The psalmist proclaims, “הנה מה טוב ומה נעים שבת אחים גם יחד (Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity)” (Psalm 133:1). We must foster communities that honor, support, and celebrate veterans, addressing issues of isolation and encouraging connection.
Call to Action: A Robust Offering Package
In this sacred calling, we must present a comprehensive and global offering package to veterans and their families. This package should include the following components:
1. Financial Support and Housing Security: Initiatives to provide grants, low-cost housing, and mortgage relief.
2. Healthcare Access: Investments in veteran-specific clinics and mental health resources, as well as partnerships with congregations to support spiritual healing.
3. Educational and Employment Programs: Scholarships, skill training, and career placement services focused on veterans’ talents and experiences.
4. Community Networks and Respite Services: Establishing veteran support networks within congregations worldwide to offer respite, mentoring, and fellowship.
In Closing
Let us heed the call of Micah 6:8: “והצנע לכת עם אלוהיך (Walk humbly with your God),” seeking justice, mercy, and humility. Our veterans have fulfilled their service to nations with courage and sacrifice. May we, as the global body of faith and governance, answer with compassion, justice, and generosity.
As it is written, “ואהבת לרעך כמוך (Love your neighbor as yourself)” (Leviticus 19:18). Let us strive to serve, honor, and uplift those who have served us so faithfully.
In the Name of יהוה (YHWH) and the אהבת משיח (Love of Messiah),
EF, Rav.
משיח (The Messiah)
Reigning in Bowie, MD
