The soldiers on Remembrance Day displayed incredible bravery and selflessness. And my father-in-law was one of them who served for almost 5 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, mostly in Italy. And we are thankful he returned safe and sound.
This day, we are also thinking of the greatest act of sacrifice was made over 2,000 years ago, that of Jesus Christ laying down His life for all humanity. His sacrifice wasn’t just a historical event; it’s an ongoing call for us to live lives of love, service, and sacrifice.
In Matthew 20:28, Jesus says, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” This is our model, the ultimate example of sacrificial love. As followers of Christ, we are invited into a daily journey of sacrifice, serving others, forgiving those who hurt us, and sharing the Gospel with those who need Jesus.
Remembrance Day challenges us to ask: How can I live out the spirit of sacrifice today? It might be in the small acts, offering forgiveness, volunteering at a local charity, or a CEF Club or taking time to pray for those around us. True sacrifice begins with a heart surrendered to God, motivated by His love, and committed to making a difference.
As we reflect on the freedom secured by those who fought bravely, we must also remember that our most significant victory is found in Christ’s victory over sin and death. Our faith calls us to be ambassadors of His peace, love, and yes, reconciliation. Romans 12:1 exhorts us: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Between now and Remembrance Day, and every day after, ask God to show you how to reflect His love and serve others selflessly. Whether through acts of kindness, forgiving offences, or sharing your faith, each small step moves us closer to embodying Christ’s sacrifice.
Remember, the love demonstrated through sacrifice isn’t just something we honour on a day like today; it’s a lifestyle rooted in our identity as followers of Jesus. As 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Living out love and sacrifice builds a legacy of faith that impacts eternity.
Reflecting on those who sacrificed everything for our peace and freedom calls us to a higher purpose—to live lives marked by sacrifice, humility, and service. Their courage inspires us to be more like Christ, who gave His life so that we might have an abundant life.
This Remembrance Day, ignite a renewed commitment to live a life of sacrifice and love. Let’s honour those who served by serving others and sharing the hope of Jesus Christ. Their sacrifice reminds us that love always overcomes darkness. May our lives be a testimony of His grace, shining His light in a world that desperately needs this gospel message as we proclaim it around the world to children.
Blessings
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