by Norbert Link
While I am writing this article on November 11, 2013, I am reminded of the fact that this is a day with different significance for different people: Americans celebrate their Veterans’ Day, while Germans and other Europeans enjoy the beginning of the Carnival season. As dissimilar as these occasions might be, they have one thing in common: They are both man-made observances, which are not in accordance with the law of God.
I realize that on Veterans’ Day, Americans thank their veterans for their sacrifice and service for their country and their willingness to fight for our freedom. But as an American member of the Church of God, I must focus on my real allegiance. God has called me out of this world and made me an ambassador of a better kingdom. I have to remind myself that Veterans’ Day is focusing on the wrong things, since war is wrong, and no amount of “sacrifice” can or will make it right.
As someone who was born and grew up in Germany, I need to remind myself as well that God has called me out of the observance of Carnival, since Carnival is a Catholic holiday of pagan origin, which is totally contrary to the values and the Way of God.
I am truly thankful that God has opened my eyes so that I can see what is really important—and that Veterans’ Day and Carnival are reflections and manifestations of the passing pleasure of sin, while God and His Truth will remain forever.
