With a thankful heart, we remember.

Today holds great significance as we reflect on the privileges and freedoms we enjoy.

For those, like myself, who work in full-time ministry, Remembrance Day and Veterans Day ceremonies should make us acutely aware of the liberties we live under. We are privileged to openly share the Message of Jesus Christ without fearing persecution.

This privilege extends not only to us.

It extends to our spouses and children, providing them with assurance and security, knowing that our calling can coexist with a fulfilling career in ministry.

This liberty and privilege exist, in part, because of those who sacrificed their lives to uphold the freedom of religion as a core value of Western nations. We can hold services and pursue ministries centred on Jesus because we live and serve in a free country.

If you or your spouse is dedicated to a career in ministry, today should stir a deep sense of gratitude. As I have contemplated my journey, here are three reasons why we (pastors, ministers, priests, and other full-time ministry workers) should reflect with heightened appreciation on the sacrifices we remember today:

We Remember Our Religious Freedom

The ability to freely promote Christ-centered programs without government intervention is a testament to the blessings of religious freedom. This unique life we lead comes at a human cost, a cost that we acknowledge on this day.

We Remember Our Family Assurance and Security

Our spouses share in the assurance that when we engage in ministry work, we will return home safely. Beyond that, the financial freedom that our church members have to support our families brings a sense of security. This enables our spouses to partner with us in living out the Gospel and sharing Biblical truths with our children, and others in our social circles.

We Remember the Human Cost

We are thankful for the abundant life granted to us under God’s sovereignty, but we also solemnly remember the human cost associated with this abundant life.

As Canadians observe Remembrance Day and Americans mark Veterans Day, we pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed, affording us freedoms and opportunities that distinguish our nations, and we thank God for them.

Lest we forget, let us collectively pause to honour and remember the sacrifices that have paved the way for our liberties. If you or your spouse have a career in ministry, today should stir a deeper level of thankfulness.

Join the Conversation, Leave Your Thoughts

• How will you, your family, your church and/or your organization choose to remember today?
• If you serve in ministry, how does Remembrance or Veteran’s Day impact your thoughts about your calling and career?