Get Down!

Get Down!

Their command is a lampand their instruction a light;their corrective disciplineis the way to life.

Proverbs 6:23

As commander in chief of the nation during the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln felt it was his duty to visit the front to see for himself how the struggle was progressing. Although that may not have been the wisest idea since he was such a recognizable figure, he was determined to make the trip.

During the Confederate attack on Fort Stevens, near Washington, DC, Lincoln traveled to the front lines. Young Oliver Wendell Holmes, a general’s aide, was given the wonderful privilege and serious responsibility of showing President Lincoln around the camps and battle lines.

At one point during the tour, Holmes pointed out to Lincoln the Confederate troops advancing toward them. Lincoln, well over six feet tall and wearing his distinctive black suit and stovepipe hat, stood up to get a better look, and he immediately drew musket fire from the Confederates.

“Get down, you fool!” cried Holmes, grabbing the president by the arm and pulling him down under cover. Once he had the president safe, Holmes suddenly realized what he had said. I called President Lincoln a fool! he thought in horror. Knowing the potentially harsh punishment for such an impulsive action, he waited in dread of the impending disciplinary response he expected would surely come.

President Lincoln kept Holmes waiting all afternoon as the tour continued. Finally, as he was making preparations to leave the front and head back to Washington, Lincoln turned to Holmes with a wink and said, “Good-bye, Captain Holmes. I’m glad you know how to talk to a civilian.”

Father, thank you for loving and disciplining me in the ways you know I most need it. Otherwise, my life would surely drift off course and away from you. I am so grateful for your grace and mercy. And please help me to stop and think before I speak! Amen.