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The Pastoral Lens
Remember and Give Thanks
Tuesday, November 5, 2002
Well, we are approaching another Remembrance Day in a few short days. With another year gone by, the number of surviving war veterans continues to diminish. The daunting task of educating the children coming through the schools continues to challenge us. We must strive to keep the act of remembrance alive "lest we forget" the significance of the sacrifices made for our freedom.Although born and raised in the post-war era, nevertheless my life is greatly affected and touched by the veterans of our country. My paternal grandfather was a veteran of World War I and of the Boer War. In the latter war, as a young English lad of only 14 years of age, Grandpa Horrobin lied about his age and changed his name (several times, so I am told) in order to secure a spot serving his country in war. He was decorated with many medals and the chest he carried throughout his travels in Africa still sits in my mother's home in Windsor. It is full of fascinating things. He also received medals for his term of service in World War I.
My father served with the Royal Canadian Air Force in World War II. Part of his time was spent in Canada and part was spent in England. My brothers and I loved to hear dad tell of his adventures as a soldier. I think as a boy listening to my father's accounts left me more awestruck than appreciative. What I mean by that is the true significance of the sacrifice was lost a little in the thrill of the adventure.
I am older now with children of my own. My dad passed away 14 years ago and with it, the opportunity for my children to hear the firsthand account of my father's experience in the war. It is left to me to relay the stories to them from my own memory. As I do this, I am filled with gratitude for what my dad, grandfather, and countless others did in fighting to secure my freedom and that of my children. We are commanded in Scripture to give thanks in all things (1 Thess. 5:18). I am also thankful for the inner freedom I have because of another sacrifice that was made, this one almost 2000 years ago on a cross outside Jerusalem. Jesus Christ paid for my spiritual freedom with His own blood. He gave His life so that I could have mine.
What about you? Are you grateful for the sacrifices made by others which has brought about your freedom? Why not tell a veteran today how much you appreciated their sacrifice for the freedom you now enjoy. I have made it my habit to thank the Lord each day for His work in my life and giving me freedom on the inside. I'm also thankful to the men and women of this great country who fought bravely to secure my freedom on the outside. Attend the Remembrance Day service in your area this year (if your schedule allows). Don't let this opportunity pass you by to give thanks and remember.
