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Oil For The Night: Perseverance, Remembrance, and Hope

On Remembrance Sunday, we honour veterans, families, friends, and loved ones who persevered through hardship, cold, and fear. We remember their courage, service, and steadfast faith, and acknowledge their contributions to the peace we enjoy today. Our reading from 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 calls us to turn towards God in hope as we remember those who have died, trusting in the promise of resurrection. Matthew 25:1–13 invites us to reflect on our own lives: are our lamps supplied with oil, and are we faithfully tending the light entrusted to us? As we honour those who came before us and those who have gone ahead of us, we are called to persevere in our own journey of faith, even in difficult circumstances.

Through every trial, our hope rests in Christ and in the promise that we will be together with Him, at home in His presence forever. Today, let us tend our lamps and renew our commitment to love God and our neighbour (Matthew 22:37–40), to forgive readily, and to pray faithfully. The oil in our lamps may be understood as the daily practice of faith: prayer, mercy, forgiveness, service offered without recognition, and courage in adversity. These practices prepare us to welcome Christ and enable us to offer hope to others. May we remain faithful and ready, trusting in His love as we await His coming. Amen.

With gratitude and blessings,

The Reverend Wilson Akinwale