This Remembrance, we will be marking eighty years on from the end of World War 2. Many who served in our armed forces during that conflict have now died. The remaining veterans will be holding their comrades on their hearts during the national two-minute silence. It is hard to forget those you served alongside. We need to honour the sacrifice of the WW2 generation and do what we can to promote the peace that they fought so hard to see.
As I said in last month's reflection, we can only truly resolve life's bitter divisions and painful differences by pressing "pause" and taking a fresh look at the issues through the eyes of those on both sides of the divide. If we can see them as people just like us... if we can think about how to bring light and love into the public debates and private discussions... we stand a chance. Understanding, reconciliation and peace may be possible. If each side keeps on approaching the conflict through their own perspective only, nothing will change because no one is listening to their neighbours. We need Christ-like eyes of love, a recognition of our shared humanity and right to life, and an acknowledgement of our national and personal mistakes for the light of peace to dim the darkness of long-held mistrust and hate.
This Remembrance, may we look back and remember the sacrifice and suffering of those who served in World War 2 and look forward with the light of hope to a world filled with peace. May we each do what we can to bring peace into our world's troubled lives and lands.
God bless,
Revd Katrina