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In the name of love


Today is ANZAC Day, commemorating those from the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who fought together so bravely at Gallipoli. We remember and honour those who served. So many who never returned.  We also remember and honour those men and women who have served in any war or conflict, many who gave their lives in doing so. We honour and recognise those who are still serving. We are thankful for the sacrifice their families made.

So many wars! I googled the wars that New Zealand and Australia have been involved in and was dismayed at the long list that came up. War has been around since at least 1880 BC in the days of Abram and Lot. What a reflection on mankind that countries go to war over land, religious differences, race, power and who knows what else!

There are very many Christian views on war; some refuse to go to war, others will participate in non-combatant roles. Some say God is a God of peace so we should absolutely not fight, others say God hates evil so if peace cannot be achieved by other means we have to fight for justice and freedom. It is a very difficult subject and one on which we will probably never agree. I think this is a personal decision for Christians to make according to what God places on their heart.

However, when I think of all the sacrifices that have been made over a very long time by men and women who gave their lives for us, families who sacrificed their loved ones, I honour them. I wonder how brave I will be if still alive in end times when I may have to sacrifice my child’s life rather than take the mark of the beast? I pray my faith (and my child’s faith) will be strong enough to endure until Christ comes again.

As I reflect on this Anzac Day, I also think of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. He was tortured before being killed in a horrific way. All for love. How can I not love a Saviour who did that for me? He also did it for you. A gift of salvation, for each of us. Today I bow before God in worship, praise and thanksgiving for His sacrifice, for dying for me. I also thank God for the brave men and women who served and are serving in the armed forces, so that we (and others) might live in freedom.

 

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