Remembrance Day: Honoring Sacrifice and Living with Purpose

This Remembrance Day, as we gather at Anzac Park and across the world, we pause to remember those who gave their lives in service to their countries. At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we observe a moment of silence, honoring the sacrifice of soldiers who fought for freedom and peace.

As Christians, we are reminded that true sacrifice is rooted in love. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). This ultimate sacrifice is not just something to remember, but something we are called to reflect in our own lives. While we may not be called to lay down our lives in battle, we are invited to live sacrificially—putting the needs of others before our own and serving with love and compassion.

This day also calls us to pray—for those who serve today, for the families affected by loss, and for the peace that only God can provide. Let’s remember not just the past, but also how we can live lives that honour the sacrifices of others through our own acts of service and love. 

I also remember the life and sacrifice of my friend Signaller Sean McCarthy, who tragically lost his life in Afghanistan on 8 July 2008. Sean, a dedicated member of the Australian Defence Force and the Special Air Service Regiment, was deeply respected by his colleagues. May we honour his memory, along with all those who have served and sacrificed, by living lives of gratitude and service.

As you take a moment to reflect today, I invite you to listen to this meditation and give thanks for those who have laid down their lives for us. May we honour their sacrifice not just in our words, but in the way we live—by loving, serving, and caring for those around us.

Let us pray:

Father, we thank You for the sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve. We remember their courage and pray for peace in our world. Help us to live lives of love, following the example of Your Son, Jesus. In His name we pray, Amen.

Lest we forget.