Soldiers and Heaven

The Life of the World (a publication of the LC-MS Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) had the theme of chaplains for its current issue. An article titled "What does this mean?" discussed Luther's arguments that a soldier is not in peril of eternal damnation due to his vocation as a soldier. And I agree with this article. However, I cannot seem to rectify myself to full satisfaction the difference between soldiering in ancient times and the American methodology. Previous generations were conscripted (drafted in modern parlance) to fight when there was an enemy. The only other source of soldiers were mercenaries who fought for money. The modern American soldier is a "volunteer", which means they sign up for service without being directly "asked" to do so. While this is a proper vocation as it is an arm of the government emplaced by God, does the vocation take on a slightly less proper hue when the soldier is a volunteer versus a draftee? I don't think it would, but I can't seem to reason out the solution. Thoughts on the subject are welcomed.

Plug

This is a quick plug for my Pastor's blog. You can find it here and I will be adding it, when time permits, to my sidebar. Enjoy!

As an aside, I think time will be more permissive for posting soon as I am changing jobs which will reduce the commute (at least 30 minutes one way!). But, I have a paper to write, so until Aug. 1, I will still be spotty. Then I will pick up with some stuff on Ablaze.

Still Here

My apologies for not posting lately, but life has been fairly busy. I have spent a large amount of time between family, house repairs, changing jobs (official in two weeks) and an assortment of other duties. I hope to post more in the near future once the new job starts. Until next time, God's blessings.