On Another Armistice

As we face the future from here, we are aware of some of the disappointments of the past. We are aware, for example, that repeated declarations of peace have not as yet proved to be permanent. We are aware also, that except for life itself, and for freedom, there are few things that men cherish more than peace. All through the centuries the prophets and the people have looked to an ultimate period of peace when the reign of righteousness would cover the earth. Yet thus far men have failed to find this much-sought-for permanent peace, perhaps because they have not known enough of the nature of peace. To turn to a New Testament text: “And when [Jesus] was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If though hadst known… the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.” They are hid perhaps because men have so often looked for peace without repentance. Peace is a positive and not merely a passive thing. It is more than the absence of war. It is a way of life, an attitude, and an inner condition. It is a freedom from confusion and freedom from false thinking, and it doesn’t come from the promises or persuasions of despots but proceeds only from obedience to the principles of the Prince of Peace. And now, as we remember one Armistice and hope and pray for another, we are thankful for the brave men who have stood “between their loved homes and the war’s desolation.” May those of the past be honored, and those of the present be protected. And may the loved ones of those who have lost their lives have the heaviness of their hearts lifted and have sweet assurance of an eternal renewal of association with those they love. We are thankful for freedom, thankful that there seems to be an awakening awareness against losing it, and thankful for the faith “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and… shall not perish from the earth”⎯if we keep the commandments and walk in the ways of Him who made us all we are and who gave us all we have. “Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget.”