If I asked what were the television programmes of your childhood I wonder what you’d say? Are you the Teletubbies generation? Or The Woodentops and Andy Pandy? Who were YOUR Blue Peter presenters? And what about music? The Beatles or Glenn Miller? Oasis or Hot Chocolate? We all have times when we reminisce about the past. The Good Old Days! It’s good to remember but not good to try and live in the past. November is a month for remembering. Near the start of the month we are told to
“Remember, Remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot …!

Then a few days later we are called to a solemnity as we join together for November 11th Armistice Day services, and we say:
“At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them”

There are many things that act as triggers for our memories, - a piece of music, a certain smell, visiting a special place. It could be anything. And sometimes memories are evoked for no apparent reason.

On the first Easter Day two of Jesus’ friends were walking back home. They had had the most awful few days. Their friend had been horrifically killed by being nailed to a cross. As they walked they were talking about recent events. A stranger joined them on the road. Someone who had no apparent knowledge of the things they were talking about. Yet he was able to explain how everything that had happened was meant to be. It was all part of God’s plan. When the friends reached the place where they were to rest for the night they invited the stranger to join them for a meal.

He did so. During the meal the stranger took the bread, blessed it, broke it and offered it to them. This action immediately sparked something within them. This man was their friend. This man was the one who had been nailed to a tree and yet was right here talking with them. Suddenly he disappeared from their sight.

They were so overwhelmed with joy and hope that they travelled all the way back to Jerusalem to tell the good news that Jesus is alive. The blessing and breaking of bread was a recent memory for them. Something special and meaningful. Each Sunday Christians throughout the world remember. Take, eat…. Do this in remembrance. Not just for November but for always.