They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.    Isaiah 2 : 4

Readings this week :  Isaiah 2 : 2 - 4; Matthew 25 : 1 - 13

We come today to remember those who died in the wars defending our country, to give thanks for our freedom and to commit ourselves to the way of peace, in the strength of Jesus the Prince of Peace.

Yet this Remembrance reflects all the turmoil of war. Many different voices crying out for justice and truth. Voices calling for compassion and mercy. All the horrors of war being unleashed today in Israel and Gaza, the Ukraine, and elsewhere.

What can we say? Except to remember those who gave their lives for peace and freedom, and to pray for peace still to come in our world, and look to Jesus who alone can bring true and lasting peace to our world, to our lives, to our communities. We are called to pray.

Jesus tells the Parable of a wedding, and of bridesmaids called to take part, and yet some are unprepared.

It is a reminder to us how we are all called by Jesus to take part in His Kingdom. We are all called to keep our lamps filled so we can shine brightly for Him. So we are ready to meet Him in the people we see, to pray, and to live our lives in His enfolding Peace.

Rev Paul

Prayers this week

Almighty Father, whose will is to restore all things in your beloved Son, the King of all:

govern the hearts and minds of those in authority, and bring the families of the nations,

divided and torn apart by the ravages of sin, to be subject to his just and gentle rule;

who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

God, our refuge and strength, bring near the day when wars shall cease

and poverty and pain shall end, that earth may know the peace of heaven

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

People to pray for :

All those with memories of war that are hard, especially today

Those caught in conflicts today

Our leaders