Kenneth Smith was retired from the military. He was living out his final years in an assisted living facility, battling against the ravages of dementia. On a good day he might recognize his daughter, Merilinda, when she came to visit; most days he did not.

Merilinda stayed with her father longer than usual one particular day. It was a Tuesday in September…September 11, 2001. The two of them did what many Americans did that day; they sat in front of a television and watched the horrible events of the day unfold.

Even through the fog of his dementia, the old soldier knew that his beloved country was under attack. With tears streaming down his face, he turned to his daughter and said, “Merilinda, bring me my uniform!”

What a heart that old man had for his country! And that’s the same type of zeal Jesus wants us to have for his church! Rom.12:11 says, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”