Remember Peace

There was a woman who stood motionless on the platform, her form barely visible in the predawn light. It was the end of World War II and the only sounds around her were the shuffling of the baggage carts ready to receive the loads. The baggage men readied themselves for yet another train. As it pulled in, filled with soldiers returning home, one soldier after another rushed into the waiting arms of friends and family. Hers was a patient wait, knowing that her soldier son would come to her, not walking, not visible. Then, with a heavy heart she ran her fingers along a polished wooden box. He was home and that put her at peace.
Long ago another mother stood silently before the rough wood of an old cross on which her son had died. He had paid the supreme sacrifice for us and his name was Jesus. He had said, "I came that they might have life, " and, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for His friends." As she remembered His words and cherished the thought that for generations to come they would know God through Him, she found peace. Jesus Christ has reconciled us to God, and the great separation was ended when Christ's life united us with the heavenly Father. We give thanks that Jesus' life gave us new life and rebirth in Him. We give thanks that Jesus-alive waits with parents who watch for their sons and daughters to return from war.