Today marks Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honor the lives lost in the surprise attack that thrust America into World War II. On that morning in 1941, nearly 2,400 Americans were killed, and countless lives were forever altered. It was a day that shook the nation to its core, uniting a divided country and awakening it to the harsh realities of a dangerous world.

For those of us who cherish freedom, faith, and the values that make America strong, Pearl Harbor serves as more than a historical event; it’s a cautionary tale about vigilance, unity, and the consequences of underestimating evil in the world. Looking at today’s geopolitical climate, it’s hard not to draw parallels to the period leading up to the attack.

A World at Risk: Then and Now

In the 1930s and early 1940s, the world faced mounting threats from imperial Japan and Nazi Germany. These regimes thrived on the weakness of others, taking advantage of appeasement, indecision, and a general desire to avoid conflict. Sound familiar? Substitute Japan and Germany for countries like China, Russia, North Korea, or Iran today, and you’ve got a chillingly similar scenario.

Back then, America wanted to stay out of global conflicts. Most people were weary of foreign entanglements after the devastation of World War I. But evil doesn’t take a holiday just because good people prefer peace. Japan saw America’s hesitation and used it as an opportunity to strike. Similarly, today, adversaries may interpret America’s internal divisions, economic struggles, and wavering resolve as an open door for aggression.

The Cost of Complacency

Before Pearl Harbor, there were warning signs. Japan’s invasion of Manchuria, its aggression in China, and its militaristic ambitions in the Pacific were clear. Yet, America and much of the world hoped diplomacy alone would prevail. We see a similar tendency today: whether it’s hand-wringing over China’s dominance in Taiwan and the South China Sea, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, or Iran’s nuclear ambitions, there’s a pattern of hoping for the best while preparing far too little for the worst.

Pearl Harbor teaches us that peace comes through strength, not wishful thinking. As Proverbs 21:31 reminds us, “The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.” Trust in God’s protection, yes, but also prepare. The best way to honor those who died at Pearl Harbor is to ensure their sacrifice wasn’t in vain by refusing to repeat the mistakes that led to their loss.

A Call to Unity and Action

In 1941, Pearl Harbor united a fractured nation. Differences in political ideology, race, and religion were set aside as Americans rallied to defeat a common enemy. It’s hard to imagine such unity today, with divisions running deeper than ever. But unity doesn’t mean conformity—it means prioritizing what matters most.

Our freedoms, our faith, and our families should unite us against external threats. Let’s stop squabbling over petty political differences and start standing firm on principles that transcend party lines. Both Democrats and Republicans have failed to address key issues like border security, military readiness, and economic independence. Pointing fingers won’t fix that, but repentance, humility, and a return to foundational values just might.

Looking Ahead

As Christians, we know that the ultimate victory belongs to God. But we’re also called to be watchful and wise stewards of the blessings He’s given us. Just as the nation rallied after Pearl Harbor, we need to rally today—not just to defend our borders and interests, but to preserve the moral compass that has guided America through its darkest hours.

Let Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day be a wake-up call for this generation. Evil didn’t go extinct in 1945; it’s alive and well. But so is the spirit of America—the spirit of resilience, faith, and unity. If we remember the lessons of the past, perhaps we can avoid a future where we’re caught off guard again.

May we never forget the sacrifices of those who gave their lives at Pearl Harbor. And may we honor their memory by standing strong today.