Silence is not an ending

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me… I go to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:1–3

On Remembrance Sunday and on Tuesday Nov 11th at 11am, we pause in stillness to remember those who gave their lives in war, and those who continue to suffer in conflict across the world. We remember them not as distant names carved in stone, but as sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, friends and neighbours: each one known and loved by God.

Jesus’ words to His disciples “Do not let your hearts be troubled” are words for us too. He spoke to them in a time of fear, when the shadow of loss was near. Yet even then, Jesus promised that love is stronger than death, and that there is a home beyond the sorrow of this world, a place prepared for us in the Father’s care.

As we remember those who lost their lives, we remember the call to peace. The silence we keep is not an ending, but a prayer that hearts and nations might turn from division toward compassion, from violence toward understanding.

May our remembering renew our commitment to live as peacemakers. And may we hold fast to the hope that one day, all will be gathered into that house of peace, where every tear is wiped away, where love endures forever.