One hundred years ago this month, the guns of the First World War fell silent.
The Armistice was signed and peace returned to Europe. But it was a broken
peace. Lives were changed for ever. Nearly every village in the UK had lost young
men, and across the world, people from many countries had been caught up in
the fighting.
We commemorate the war’s end with thanksgiving and the renewed
commitment to keep peace alive in our own times and places. But this is such a
challenge for human beings, here and across the world! So at this time of
remembrance we turn once again to God for help in finding peace. God’s peace,
shalom, is more than freedom from war. God promises that everyone will be able
to enjoy life (Micah 4:4) and no-one will make them afraid. So as November 11
comes round again this year, we continue to mourn the lives lost, to honour the
memory of such courage, and to ask God for the gift of peace for all in our world.
Caroline