This week I had the privilege of being interviewed for an article section in our company newsletter. The section entitled “Bravo Zulu” is a section of the newsletter that profiles employees who have accomplished something. The author of the article had approached me based on her observation of my participation in the company “step challenge”, recent weight loss, and my frequent trips outside to do some walking. The interview went well. We spoke of my health concerns as I get older (now 56), my family health history (dad had diabetes), some of the ways I stay active, what my exercise regime looks like, and my goals for fitness.

After the interview I got to thinking about the term “Bravo Zulu”. Wikipedia defines it:

Bravo Zulu, also referred to as “BZ,” which is a naval signal, typically conveyed by flaghoist or voice radio, meaning “Well Done”

I’ve heard this phrase used in Christian circles many times. “Well done” refers to the scripture from Matthew chapter 25 and the Parable of the Talents which is also accompanied by “good and faithful servant”. It has become a phrase professing Christians desire to hear after they have passed from this life or as the verse states in the parable “enter into the joy of your Master” (ESV).

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy!’

Most might take the meaning of this parable as the method for getting your Heaven’s ticket punched. They may work and strive under a perceived oppression from their master yet begrudgingly, adopt a “suck it up little camper” attitude, and dutifully do the task to the letter. But, they may be missing the most important factor behind the servant’s performance for his master, which would be the servant’s love for his master. If there was no love for his master, then no matter what the task is set before him, the task would seem too great, too cumbersome, or unfairly given. But when the servant loves his master and desires to see him glorified through his efforts, no task will seem to difficult.

So as I revel in my newfound fame, not really, I am humbly reminded of the “Bravo Zulu” given to Jesus Christ for his obedience to God the Father. So “well done” that:

He raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. (Ephesians 1:20-23 HCB)

Ultimately the “Bravo Zulu” belongs to Christ, because anything deserving a “well done” is accomplished by and through him.

Soli Deo Gloria, Bravo Zulu!