November 2025

We reach November once again.  The month when we stop on 11th (and also Sunday 9th ) and remember the ‘fallen’ – those who have died or were injured in wars long ago, in recent conflicts and all those public servants who (despite danger) give of themselves for the nation, so we are protected.  It is humbling to know complete strangers are prepared to put themselves in danger, so we don’t have to face it.  It is courageous and we should never take it (or them) for granted, no matter what our stance may be on war.
We hear the word ‘sacrifice’ a lot, but what does it actually mean?  The dictionary definition of SACRIFICE is an act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy.  Wow. 

What would you be prepared to sacrifice, I wonder, and for what, or for whom?  Do you have limits?  What would you not perhaps be prepared to sacrifice? Or are there limitations to who you would sacrifice for, maybe?

As human beings, we are often quick to ‘talk the talk’ (“Oh yes, I would lay down my life for…” but not quite as enthusiastic to ‘walk the walk’ (carry it through if it was asked of us)!
In the bible we of course talk a lot about Jesus and our belief as Christians that God, by way of his Son, was prepared to give everything and sacrifice himself for humanity. He is the perfect example – our inspiration and aspiration.  (We are considered that valuable and are loved by God).  If only humanity could love like this – sacrificially – prepared to give up things and compromise to live well with one another. 

As part of our remembrance service, there is a personal response, and we are asked to commit ourselves to trying to live better for the common good.  (I’m not sure how long we remember we have done this as we leave our church).  But if only we could all pledge this and continually remember we have done so.  What a different world we would live in. 
We can, however though only play our part, do what we can and challenge those in power and authority to do likewise. And that is enough.  That is a start.  So, whether you are a churchgoer or not, perhaps you, too, could pledge this, this November:-

….We pledge ourselves to serve (thee and) all humankind, in the cause of peace, for the relief of want and suffering, (and for the praise of Thy name). 
May this November we remember the need for peace and play our small part in making a difference where we are.
 
God bless
(Rev) Suzie