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Blessed are the peacemakers, because they will be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9). A Theological Reflection on the 80th Anniversary of the d-D- Day Landings in Normandy

 

Today marks 80 years since the D-Day invasions by the allied forces by both air and sea to drive out the Nazi forces. This was the world's bravest operation as 150 000 allied soldiers stormed Normandy from five beaches namely Omaha, Juno, Sword, Utah and Gold. June 6, 1944 will remember engraved in the memories of many people as they try to imagine how the atmosphere was on that particular day. This was an operation that came with a price as an estimate between 5000-12000  allied forces died on the day while between 4000-9000 German soldiers also died. 


As I was following some of the live coverage proceedings of the celebrations today, several reflections developed in my mind. Firstly, seeing the remnants of that operation who are now in the late 90s and early 100s I wonder how they managed to deal with these horrific memories of this day for 80 years. Listening to their passion narratives of the operation, one can vividly imagine how suicidal was it. Secondly, how did the families of those who died managed to cope with the aftermath of the operation that led to the death of their loved ones in foreign lands.  


Thirdly, the biggest lesson for me is that the freedom, security, and prosperity we are enjoying today was a result of self-sacrifice by men and women who dedicated their lives to this noble cause. They shed their blood for our freedom. They prioritizes their present for the sake of our future. 


The current invasion of Ukraine, war inn Gaza, and numerous conflicts in Africa and other parts of the world is cause of concern. It is a sign that human beings do not learn from those horrific past experience. Our memories fade easily and we create other horrific scenes that will hurt both present and future generations. As the church we have a big role in promoting and fostering peace in our communities. It is not coincidental that the subject of peace was among his beatitudes of his famous sermon on the Mount. Promoting and fostering peace is one of the marks of being sons and daughters of God. As we continue to share the good news of Lord Jesus Christ, the gospel of peace should be embodied in our day to day lives.  


God our refuge and strength,
as we remember those
who faced danger and death in Normandy,
eighty years ago,
grant us courage to pursue what is right,
the will to work with others,
and strength to overcome tyranny and oppression,
through Jesus Christ,
to whom belong dominion and glory,
now and for ever.
Amen.

(https://www.churchofengland.org/

prayer-and-worship/topical-prayers/

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