“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
This weekend, which marked 100 years since the end of World War I, we remember the countless who fought for peace for their countries.
Of the 619, 636 Canadians, over half of them volunteered to join the effort.
They volunteered to secure peace for their family, for the peace of their country, and for peace in the world.
As we remember those who have come before us, stepping up against injustice and striving for peace, we also recognize the struggle for peace continues today.
We also know that God embodies justice and peace. The Bible from beginning to end shares of a God who cares about justice, reconciliation, and peace. And He calls and empowers us to do the same.
It looks different now, but it still requires countless volunteers choosing to live differently on behalf of others. Just as we are thankful for the freedom we have been given in Canada, we are thankful for those who continue to volunteer for justice, to strive for peace, and to work to make our world better.
You are those people.
Every day you work on behalf of the oppressed,
you work for peace.
Every day you advocate for the voiceless,
you work for peace.
Every day you listen with patience and compassion,
you work for peace.
Every day you come to work and strive to provide the best support possible for those who walk through our doors,
you work for peace.
Thank you to all the different peace-makers and peace-keepers.
Let’s continue to work for peace every day, as we continue to strive to be “The Hand of God, in the Heart of the City.”
Peace,
Prayer
Let us pray for all who suffer as a result of conflict, and ask that God may give us peace:
For the service men and women who have died in the violence of war, each one remembered by and known to God; may God give peace.
God give peace.
For all members of the armed forces who are in danger this day, remembering family, friends and all who pray for their safe return; may God give peace.
God give peace.
For peacemakers and peacekeepers, who seek to keep this world secure and free; may God give peace.
God give peace.
O God of truth and justice, we hold before you those whose memory we cherish, and those whose names we will never know. As we honour the past, may we put our faith in your future; for you are the source of life and hope, now and forever.
Amen.
(Found Here)