Cressman Lake

1 John 3:16 – This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. (NIV)

Cressman Lake, named after my mom's brother, the late Charles H. (Herb) Cressman (R.C.A.F.), is located at latitude 59 degrees 59 minutes north and longitude 109 degrees 8 minutes. It is one of many lakes in Saskatchewan, Canada, which are named after servicemen who gave their lives in World War II. The Canadian Permanent Committee on Geographical Names adopted the name "Cressman Lake" on December 6, 1956. Members of the immediate family were each presented with their own certificate to mark the occasion. My mother's certificate has been passed down to me.

Today I was looking at the colourful certificate again. Although it contains the Saskatchewan crest, the prairie lily floral emblem, and a picture of grain elevators, what really stands out for me is the inscription "In memory of a valiant one from Saskatchewan who gave his life in preservation of ideals of free men." I am proud to say that Herb, my mom's brother from Ceylon, Saskatchewan, was among the thousands of Canadians who gave their lives so that we might be free.

On Remembrance Day (Veterans' Day), let us remember with gratitude those who sacrificed their lives for us, so that we might live in freedom. Let us give thanks to God for the sacrifice that they made, so that we might live in peace.

Prayer: Almighty God, we thank You for those who have sacrificed their lives in wars so that others may live in peace. We pray that we might strive to preserve to ideals of peace for which they stood. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

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