Remembrance Sunday // speak thy servant is listening

Remembrance Sunday is Here

Remembrance Sunday has always been special in many ways. It is that time when we pause look back, recall, and reflect. For some, it is about remembering the sacrifices of soldiers who gave their lives in wars. For others, it is about recalling the goodness of God, the moments of joy, and the experiences that shaped us. But for me this year, Remembrance Sunday took on a new and refreshing meaning, because it came at the same time we were having the Children’s and Teens’ Convention in my church.

The convention ran for three whole days, and it was unlike the regular services we are used to. This time, the children were not just participant but they were in charge. From the opening prayer to the closing benediction, they led, directed, and owned the service. And the most beautiful thing was that it did not feel forced or rehearsed. It was natural, it was vibrant, and it carried a spark that reminded me of what it truly means to celebrate remembrance in its purest form from how the children took charge showcasing their skills the praises ministrations and talents everything showed the had learnt from the adults good morals

The Theme: Speak, Your Servant is Listening

The theme of this year’s convention was “Speak, Your Servant is Listening.” Those words, taken from the story of young Samuel in the Bible, could not have been more fitting. Samuel was just a boy when God called him, yet he answered with humility and readiness. That same spirit was evident in the children all through the program.

In their prayers, in their songs, in their presentations, you could almost hear the echo of Samuel’s words. They may be young, but they showed us that they are willing to listen to God’s voice, and even more importantly, they are willing to act on what they hear.

The Beauty of Children Taking Charge

Sometimes, adults underestimate children. We think they are too small, too inexperienced, or too distracted to handle serious responsibilities in the house of God. But what I saw over these past three days challenged that mindset. The children were given full expression, and they did not disappoint they all did noble in their responsibilities assigned it caught the men women and youths to stop at nothing but applause the kids

There were dances that carried more than just rhythm they carried meaning. The choreography was clean, the steps were sharp, and the energy was contagious. At one point, I caught myself smiling so much it reminded me of when I used to participate in children and teens day how everyone always listened when i take the stage the expectations the confident that i carried one child used our native dialect to give an heartwarming speech my friend who came around said that looks like something you used to do you were good at it but today it was their turn to showcase it showed that they have been listening and following what we used to do Their recitations were another highlight. With boldness and confidence, they stood before the congregation, declaring words of wisdom, scriptures, and poems that left us in awe.

One of the most striking moments was when a young boy launched a book he had written. Imagine that a child, not yet an adult, standing before a crowd to unveil his own written work. It was humbling, inspiring, and a reminder that talent knows no age. That moment alone made me reflect deeply on what we truly remember and celebrate on a day like this.

Linking Remembrance with the Convention

When you hear “Remembrance Sunday,” the first thought might be about history, war, and solemn silence. But remembrance also means not forgetting the gifts, the lessons, and the opportunities God has given us. Watching these children handle every aspect of the service was like watching the future unfold before our eyes. It reminded me that what we do today shapes what we will remember tomorrow.

For many of us adults, our memories of church in childhood were simple attending Sunday school, singing hymns, or maybe playing with friends after service. But here I was, seeing children not just playing but ministering, teaching, creating, and leading. That is something they themselves will remember years from now, and it is also something we, the congregation, will hold on to.

And in line with the theme, we saw that God is still speaking through the younger ones, and our responsibility is to listen.

Lessons from the Children

There is a special innocence and sincerity that comes with children. They do not overthink, they do not pretend, and they do not complicate things. They simply express themselves as they are. In their dances, I saw joy. In their recitations, I saw courage. In their drama presentations, I saw creativity. And in the way they carried the service from beginning to end, I saw responsibility.

These are qualities that many adults sometimes struggle with. We get too careful, too cautious, and too burdened by life’s troubles that we forget the joy of simple expression. The children reminded me that remembrance should not always be heavy and solemn it can also be filled with light, hope, and laughter.

Why This Year Feels Different

If you ask me, this year’s Remembrance Sunday feels different because it came with a fresh perspective. It was no longer just about looking back at the past with seriousness, but also about looking forward with hope. Those children and teens showed us a glimpse of what the church of tomorrow looks like. They proved that if given a chance, the next generation is more than capable of carrying on the faith.

That in itself is something worth remembering not just today but in the years to come.

A Personal Reflection

Sitting in church, watching everything unfold, I felt a quiet stirring in my heart. I remembered my own childhood days, when I used to admire the elders who led the service. I never imagined that children my age then could stand up and lead the entire congregation. Perhaps if we were given the same opportunities back then, many of us would have grown with even more confidence.

It made me realize that remembrance is not just about looking back with nostalgia but it is about learning, appreciating, and making sure we do better for those coming behind us. By giving the children the platform, we are not only celebrating their gifts but also creating memories that will strengthen them for life.

And when I think again about the theme, “Speak, Your Servant is Listening,” I see it as a call for all of us whether young or old to open our hearts. God speaks every day, but only those who listen can receive direction for the future.

Closing Thoughts

Remembrance Sunday is here again, and while the world may focus on soldiers, wars, and sacrifices, I chose to remember differently this year. I remember the laughter of children as they danced. I remember the boldness in their voices as they recited. I remember the pride in the eyes of parents as they watched their children lead. I remember the joy in the church as everyone saw the future standing right before us.

And most importantly, I remember that life is about passing the baton. We cannot hold it forever; one day, it must go to the younger ones. The earlier we trust them, train them, and give them space, the better the memories we will all share tomorrow.

So yes, Remembrance Sunday is here, and for me, it is a celebration not only of the past but also of the present and the future. May we never forget to remember the goodness of God, the value of people, and the power of giving the next generation a voice. And may we, like Samuel, always be ready to say, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.”

Inviting @ukpono @mercybliss @kwinberry