REMEMBRANCE

 

     It is that time of the year when we spend time to reflect on the freedoms that we enjoy.  As we approach Remembrance Day we should never forget those who gave their lives for our freedom.  Canada was involved in two World Wars and Korea.  We have sacrificed thousands of lives for the freedom we now enjoy.  My own father and my wife’s father fought in World War Two.  They required that we should attend services held on November 11^th.  This was not a chore for us but a great privilege as we remembered those who sacrificed for our liberty.  Even today we do not miss an opportunity to honor that sacrifice. 

     Two thousand years ago another person gave His life so that all mankind could be set free.  Jesus Christ hung on a cross for the salvation of mankind.  It was our sin that placed Him upon that cross.  It was His death, burial and resurrection that would secure our freedom.  Jesus Himself has said, “Who the Son sets free is free indeed.”  Jesus came to give us eternal and abundant life.  This came at a great price for Jesus.  You see Jesus knew that mankind could not save ourselves.  What is remarkable is that so many people actually believe that God grades on a curve.  That He balances our live on a series of good and bad acts.  Now if we do enough God deeds that we can actually get into heaven.  This is absolutely false. 

     St. Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9, says by faith we are saved through faith and not of ourselves it is a gift of God lest any man should boast.  The prophet Isaiah puts it plainly, “Our righteousness is as filthy rags.”  Both men make it plain that we cannot save ourselves.  Any salvation is a gift given by the grace of God.  A beautiful way of looking at this is, “God’s riches at Christ’s expense.”   Freedom and liberty come by sacrifice.  As the young men and women gave their lives so our country could be free so Jesus Christ gave His life that we could have spiritual and eternal freedom.

     As Remembrance Day approaches I want you to reflect and remember what others have done for you.  We wear poppies and attend services honoring the past soldiers and the current solders.  They are worthy of our respect and appreciation.  Today Canadian forces are serving around the world in the role of peace keeping.  At home and abroad Canadian forces are respected.  May I make a suggestion, don’t just thank a veteran or serving Canadian forces member at this this time but whenever you see them.  It is their continual service that acts as a deterrent to anyone who wishes Canada harm.  May I also suggest that whenever you can to thank police officers for their service.  Over the years police members have also served in foreign lands helping to train and enforce law in other lands. 

     It is a privilege to write this article today.  I have served as a chaplain and conducted numerous Remembrance Day services over the years.  Each time I attend a service I am overwhelmed with a feeling of gratitude and sense of pride for Canada’s role in securing freedom throughout the world.

When I was growing up in Southern Alberta, the names of the soldiers were read out loud in each service.  Our small town had given over 50 individuals to the cause of freedom.  When I was in Hay River doing the time that Canadian forces served in Afghanistan we lost many soldiers and during those Remembrance Day services the name of the fallen were read.  It was a somber time because Canada was again serving for freedom.  Today I wish to once again thank all who have served in the past and those who are serving today.  Thank you on the behalf of all Canadians.