Fifth Sunday after Trinity AD 2024
Sergeant Howard William Osterkamp, who served in the U.S. Army as a platoon sergeant in charge of 40 men from 1951 to 1953, writes in his memoirs that in the mountains of Korea, the heat reached over 100 degrees in summer and 35–40 degrees below zero in winter. Mr. Osterkamp, who was wounded by shrapnel on the front line in the fall of 1952 and nearly lost a leg, recalls in his memoirs, among other things, that the soldiers were given enough to eat, although the constantly repeating food became “tiring” over time. However, they got a minimal amount of water, just one canteen every other day, and those 32 ounces had to be enough for drinking, cooking, shaving, washing themselves and, if necessary, their underwear. As for a warm shower, the soldiers could afford this luxury every two months.
From this Forgotten War hero, who was awarded the Purple Heart, comes the phrase that many Americans know: “All gave some, some gave all!“
This is true not only in the military, but also in the service of our Lord and King Jesus Christ. A few days ago, on June 24, we celebrated the birthday of St. John the Baptist who was devoted to serving God from an early age. At about thirty years of age, he gave his life steadfastly standing for the truth. He was murdered by a tyrant ruler who cared more about his pleasures and the opinion of his courtiers than about the truth and righteousness.
Yesterday, June 29, was the feast of the apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, who died as martyrs during the reign of Emperor Nero. According to tradition, Peter wanted to leave Rome, but returned there after meeting Christ to be with his persecuted flock until the end. Jesus knew when He called Peter that he had quite a temper and often made hasty decisions. Nevertheless, Jesus called Peter to be one of His apostles, even their leader, because He knew that Peter was ready to dedicate himself completely, to give not just some, but to be among those “some” who have given all.
Perhaps this was the very reason why several of Jesus’ disciples were fishermen: it is a profession that requires dedication to the end. Especially when going to the open sea, a fisherman completely surrenders himself to forces immeasurably more powerful than him. This is not for everyone – just as the calling of a soldier or an apostle is not for everyone.
But we are all called to be children of God – to follow what is good and right and to sanctify the Lord God in our hearts. So, we too are called to give not just some, but all.