Thought for the week (we 10th Nov 13)

This Sunday the nation will stand in silence in remembrance of those who died in two world wars and all other conflicts since. In churches and chapels, at war memorials in cities towns and villages acts of remembrance will be held.

Wreaths will be laid by veterans and the young alike in remembrance of those who gave themselves for the sake of the liberty and freedom we enjoy today. We also remember those who survived those years and conflicts; having been in the horror and carnage of war they too have their memories of comrades and friends lost and injured in the service of their country.

Next year will be the centenary of the end of the First World War which was described as the ‘war to end all wars’. Sadly that was not to be, so much so that the last century saw increased conflict in many parts of the world right up to this very day. That’s why we also remember those of our armed forces who still serve in many situations of danger in our deeply divided world.

We pray for their protection and that a lasting peace will come when as the Bible says ‘they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more’

Two world wars and every conflict since have meant great sacrifice by some for the sake of others. How true the words of Jesus ‘No one can have greater love than to lay down his life for his friends’ So with quiet gratitude and thanksgiving we wear our poppies and remember those who made that ultimate sacrifice in the two world wars and the more recent conflicts.

Praying that peace will come to our troubled world and that Jesus the Prince of peace might reign in the hearts of all people. ‘

At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them’