Every year on 11 November, Australians pause to remember.

At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, communities gather at cenotaphs, schools hold assemblies, and a minute’s silence falls across the nation. We remember those who served our country in war and conflict. We remember the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, and we honour those who never returned home.

Remembrance Day is woven into Australia’s story.

Yet remembrance is about more than recalling historical facts. It is about ensuring that sacrifice is not forgotten. We remember because some acts of courage and service are too important to fade from memory.

As Christians, we understand the importance of remembering.

In fact, remembering is one of the things we do best.

Every time we gather around the Communion table, we participate in an act of remembrance. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus broke bread and shared the cup with His disciples. Then He gave a simple instruction:

“Do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)

Through Communion, we remember something far greater than a historical event. We remember the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. We remember the love that held Him there. We remember the price He paid so that we could be reconciled to God.

Unlike many anniversaries that come around once a year, Christians have the privilege of remembering regularly. In many churches, Communion is celebrated weekly. Week after week, we pause to reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection. We deliberately bring to mind what He has done for us.

Remembrance changes us.

When Australians remember those who served, gratitude rises in our hearts. When Christians remember Jesus, gratitude rises too. Remembering reminds us that our salvation was not earned. It was purchased by Christ’s sacrifice.

The world is quick to move on. New headlines replace old ones. Events that once seemed significant gradually fade from public memory. That is why deliberate remembrance matters.

On Remembrance Day, Australians honour those who sacrificed for our freedom.

As Christians, we can also take time to thank God for the One who sacrificed Himself to give us eternal freedom.

May the minute’s silence observed on 11 November remind us of another sacrifice worth remembering every day of the year.

Lest we forget.

And may we never forget Jesus.

Scripture:
“Do this in remembrance of me.” – Luke 22:19

Free Remembrance Day Bible Lesson to Download: https://cooeekidsministry.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Remembrance-Day.pdf