On November 11th, we remember those who gave their lives to uphold the values for which our country stands. We also acknowledge the example and contribution of the Canadian Armed Forces as Peacekeepers and ask ourselves how we might honor and indeed emulate the example they set for us.  

The mandate of the Canadian Armed Forces is to protect our country, its values and its interests, while supporting international peace and security. Our military has served in many capacities at home and around the world as it carries out Canada’s proud tradition of standing up for what we believe is right. In total, more than 1.7 million Canadians fought in WW1, WW2 and the Korean War during the first half of the twentieth century. As we know and remember this week, the toll taken globally by these massive conflicts was horrific, with tens of millions of people losing their lives including over 118,00 Canadian service members.   

In the aftermath of such suffering, our country and many others in the international community felt that it was far better going forward to prevent future wars whenever possible. This perspective gave rise to the modern concept of peace keeping. Canada would play a leading role in peace keeping from the beginning, a concept based on the idea that having a force of impartial troops present in conflict situations can help reduce tensions and improve the chances of a peaceful outcome. Over the years, many service members have deployed overseas to take part in various UN, NATO and other multinational peace support organizations. In a world that is still beset by conflict, Canada has maintained its identity as a peacekeeping nation. 

War brings out the worst and the best of humanity. On Remembrance Day we honor the courage and the sacrifice of those who have served in places of conflict, and we also honor the sacrifice of those who have lost loved ones in the defence of freedom. We remember, too, the ways that communities have come together in these situations to shares resources, to help each other, and to inspire us with their bravery and courage. Growing up in post-war Britain, I heard many stories of the strength and resolve of the British people as they remained united and determined through the war years. I’ve been told that community spirit was at its strongest during that time. 

We are reminded that how we live our lives matters. As Christians, we are called to live as a people who have been redeemed, and it is not optional; it is central to our call as Christians, to be people who make peace wherever and whenever possible. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, set the example by his death on the cross.  In a world that is beset by trials and tribulations, we are reminded that Jesus has already conquered it all and we can therefore live with joyful hearts, even in times of difficulty and loss. We can be peacemakers, people who embody hope.  

We are not all called to be peacemakers in countries where there is conflict, but we all know conflict in our own lives and relationships, even in our church and our own parish here at St. Matthias, because we are both blessed and flawed, and so we are constantly working these things out. We who are not perfect are dealing with other imperfect human beings, even in our families and closest friendships. We don’t all see things the same way or necessarily share the same values. And so, we are called to respect differences, to give to God our irritations, our frustrations, and yes, sometimes, our need to be right. We are called often to compromise, to forgive, to adapt, and, yes, at times, be willing to listen to another point of view. It’s never easy but it’s always the Spirit of God calling us to grow, calling us to be the hope to which we are called.  

And so, on this Remembrance Sunday, we recall all who died in the service of peace. We give thanks for them: for their courage and dedication, and for their legacy. And likewise, in this celebration of the Eucharist, we recall that the life, the peace and the freedom that Jesus offers each of us, was also won at a price: that of his own life as he died for our sake on the cross.  Amen.

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