Once again at this time of year, we take time to remember the horrors of war and heroes who fought in them, those who lived through them and those who paid the ultimate price for freedoms we enjoy. Veterans, please accept our humble thanks.
Peace is not a word that springs to mind when we think about our history. In World War I, (the war that was to end all wars), the total dead from all nations was ten million. In World War II fifty five million people died. Add the purges of Stalin and Mao Tse Tung, the slaughter in Vietnam, Cambodia, Rwanda; then Kosivo and East Timor, and currently the fighting in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan for starters, and we recognize that peace is conspicuously lacking with nations and individuals.
Isn't it time to start giving consideration to Jesus Christ, the "Prince of Peace?" He came to bring reconciliation between us and God and to each other as fellow human beings. He Himself said "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart. I have overcome the world." John 16:33.
Derrick Bingham shares the following information:
"I will always remember listening at a convention one evening to Elivs Presley's stepbrother speak." He told how the world famous singer was approached by one of his entourage.
"This girl keeps ringing me", he said, "and says that it is high time I was living for Jesus. What do you think, Elivs?"
"It is", replied Elvis, "high time we were all living for Jesus". Three days later Elvis was dead. He had lived the latter years of his life in a horrendously zany way showing deep restlessness. He knew, though, where true peace and love could be found. They could be found by faith in Jesus Christ. Sadly he lived for other things which could not deliver on the things he needed the most."
Are you at peace with God, with others, with yourself? Jesus graciously provides it.
Pastor John Giesbrecht
