The 11th of November marks the WWI armistice, ending this war. They did it at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month back in 1918. Subsequently, many Canadians will pause for two minutes at that hour on that day. They wish to remember those who gave their lives in military service, as well as veterans who made it home, in whatever condition war had blasted through them.
They call it, "Remembrance Day." The Americans do similarly, calling it either Veteran's Day or Armistice Day. Then there's Memorial Day (observed in May), specifically to honor only the US military personnel who died while serving in military service. The other days are for all who served in their military.
Nowadays, the remembrance is not just for those who served during WWI but an accumulation of wars throughout ensuing years. It is good to remember and be thankful for those who defended their country but also helped other countries to be liberated from hostile takeovers.
No one ever truly wins. There is so much death, loss, injury, maiming of human bodies. The fallout is intense and extensive. Then there's the innocent civilians, who never asked for this but who get caught in the crossfire, who get displaced and become refugees. There are those who are raped and/or become human trafficked by wickedly evil men who take advantage of such situations.
We need to remember these people too!
War is an evil buisiness. Satan comes only to
"kill, steal and destroy".
By contrast,
Jesus came to give life so we could have it more abundantly (see John 10:10-11 ESV).
He is our true 'War Hero.' He won the war against Satan - that battle for our souls. Let's praise the One who gave His life for all mankind, so that we could be liberated from the consequencies of our sins: suffering, growing old; death and life without Him spent in an eternal Hell.
We await peace for evermore. We long for it.
This Lord's Day, celebrate and honor Jesus, through remembering His death for us. Remember too, His resurrection that makes our salvation all the more possible. Reach for the broken bread - partake. Reach again, this time for the cup of wine - drink. Do this often in remembrance of Him, until He comes upon the cloud.
Thank You, Jesus! There have been many who have given their lives that others may live in freedom. You gave Yours too, in even greater impact because it was for all mankind. This sacrifice benefits all who believe and it lasts forever and ever. We give You our most heartfelt thank for this liberation. We lift up our heads and give You our praise in Your name Lord Jesus. Amen.
~ ERC November 2026 ~
Based on John 10:10 & 11 ESV.
Sing, The Church's One Foundation, along with Best Hymns and Lord Jesus, We Remember (Around Thy Grave, Lord Jesus) with STEM publishing.