Remembrance- a day and a season of remembering. We remember those who gave their life for their country, and rightly so. In the midst of the poignant silence, we think of conflicts and wars, family members and friends, whose names are recorded on war memorials up and down the land. We give thanks for people who navigate access to military records that might help us to understand where a loved one died, the circumstances of their death, the location of a war grave if there is one. We give thanks for their willingness to serve, and for their sacrifice.

Another dimension of Remembrance is also to remember those who came back from war- the veterans. Some return with stories to tell, new skills learned, and reintegrate well into society, and I am thankful for this. For others, they come back with physical disabilities, emotional wounds, and spiritual questioning of long held beliefs. The pain of personally witnessing the raw devastation of shootings and bombings, never mind participating in them, can leave veterans with shattered trust, and a fragmented sense of self.

I know that there are many organisations out there to support veterans, but I think it can be difficult to find exactly what you need. If you are struggling with flashbacks and ptsd symptoms, you can want to self medicate and isolate as a coping strategy, and don’t have energy to fill in forms and conform to social norms. Feelings of frustration, anger, fear and shame can put enormous strain on relationships with family and friends, adding to the turmoil. 

My late husband Colin, who died seven years ago was a veteran. He was one of the unfortunate ones, who struggled with physical injury, dark memories, regrets and trauma.

When I was reflecting on a biblical story that might help, I tbought of the story of Jacob in Genesus chapter 32. He is about to meet his brother Esau, and is distressed and wracked by guilt about some of his past behaviour. He prays for safety for his family, and then goes out into the night and wrestles with God. Jacob says he will not stop, until God blesses him, and although he suffers a wounded hip, he discovers the blessing of God. In the midst of struggle in the darkness, Jacob acknowledges his dependence on God, and he finds strength and hope. For many veterans, they too wrestle in the dark, but finding any answers can be tough indeed.

For veterans and their families, there can be so many struggles, for understanding, for respect, for meaningful support in the midst of nightmares and trauma. On Remembrance Sunday, out of all days, may we remember our veteran community. In their often complex and individual stories,  they need our recognition and care, not just one day a year, but all year round. As a society, may we resolve to find compassionate and effective ways to do this.

Gracious and Eternal Father, God of all the ages, we are sorrowful at the conflict and destruction in our world. Often we fight and tear down, rather than build up and bless. We know that sometimes war is the lesser of two evils, and we give thanks for those willing to serve. We honour their memory, and remember both the living and the dead. Lord Jesus Christ, You show us the meaning of love, through Your life and teaching, and willingness to lay down your life for the sins of the world. Help us, as we cry to You, for healing of wounded and broken individuals, families and communities. May charities, churches and national institutions work together to bring a soothing salve of grace to all whose lives are troubled and full of pain. Holy Spirit teach us how to honour our veteran community, and to be channels of healing and peace. In Jesus mighty name, Amen..