As my husband and I pulled up to the 2026 Show Me State Games Road Race early yesterday morning, I knew directing this year's race would look a little different than in years past. Not only had the Salvation Army partnered with the 5k/10k, but they were onsite to honor a young man who had served with the organization from a young age. SPC Jason D. Fingar, a native of Columbia, MO was killed in action during his first deployment in Afghanistan with Operation Enduring Freedom while assigned to the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.
Per the information listed, I came to know and share with the runners that "Jason had been awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Driver and Mechanic Badge during his military career. Jason was actively involved with The Salvation Army from birth and was an avid musician, playing guitar, piano and brass instruments as part of The Salvation Army church band."
Much of that was easy to announce over the microphone until I had to read this part, "He was a soldier at the Columbia Corps Community Center and believed that you could be a man of God and still fight for your country – and he did so proudly. He loved to read the Bible...” "Oh how we need more men like that," I thought to myself as I fought back tears. "Men that will stand up for their country and for God no matter the outcome or pushback."
Later that evening, I went on to discover that Corey Phan, a member of Jason's platoon, believed Fingar was in his platoon for a reason — to share God’s word with his fellow soldiers. He went on to say, "God’s will was done with Jason because any time anybody was in despair, he always had a way to motivate them and tell them how he overcomes everything.”
Wow, right?
And, you know, Paul was also a man who was known for standing up for God no matter the outcome and urged his brothers and sisters at Corinth to do the same by being on the alert, standing firm in the faith, and being men (and women) of courage known for their strength. All of this Paul said, was to be done in love.
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
This was Paul’s rallying cry for them and for us—a cry for believers to remain spiritually vigilant, doctrinally steadfast, and brave in the face of cultural opposition and moral challenges. Especially as the end days draw near and we see a rise in false teachings and persecution against God's followers.
Which means that we must "study to shew" ourselves approved unto God by reading our Bibles each and every day.
So, knowing that the only life worthy of honoring is a life lived for Jesus, seek to leave a legacy worth remembering my friend. Love God, serve others, and be a person known for being courageous.
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to mature in our faith and strong in our convictions and beliefs. Help us to be men and women of courage that are worth remembering Lord that we might lead others to You by the way that we live our lives. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!
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