Matt Axelson was a smiling, sandy-haired native of California. In 2000, he entered the Army and became a Navy SEAL.

Then 9/11 happened.

In the sweltering summer heat of Afghanistan in 2005, Axelson’s team was told to capture a senior member of the Taliban. Unfortunately, the team was betrayed by locals sympathetic to the Taliban, and the SEALs found themselves surrounded by upwards of 100 enemy fighters.

During a fierce firefight, Axelson was hit in the head and chest, but continued fighting until the end. He died, along with two of his team. Matt’s last words were, “Tell Cindy I love her.”

He was thinking of his wife. Of his family. He was there in a tough place, far from the green, green grass of home.

Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

The price for living in a wonderful country is high. It’s very, very high.

No matter our politics—because none of that really matters when we stop and think about heroes like Matt—we can honor them. We appreciate our heroes more than we can say.

Let’s pray.

Lord, we thank you that one day you will wipe all tears from our eyes and death will be no more. In Jesus’ name, amen.

How can we pray for you today? Members of Team Kerusso meet on a regular basis to pray, and we would be honored to pray for you. Visit Kerusso.com/pray to submit a request.