Drawn to the Gospel

Every year at an ANZAC Day service, the Ode of Remembrance is recited:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

The Ode is the fourth stanza of the poem For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon. It resonates with us in Australia as we pause to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served our nation in war. Many gave their lives for the freedom we now enjoy.

As someone who came to Australia almost 30 years ago, I have enjoyed only the fruit of the diggers’ sacrifices during the war. We often take for granted that Australia’s greatness is shaped by the greatness of those who put their lives on the line.

In the quiet reflection of the words “Lest we forget,” we are called not only to remember but to honour that sacrifice—as well as those in the armed forces who are ready to do the same.

As followers of Jesus, Anzac Day can also stir our hearts to remember the greatest act of sacrifice. This act of sacrifice is far nobler and greater than securing one of the most liveable countries on earth. It secures our eternal peace and ushers in the beginning of a new heaven and earth. Hours before He performed this act, He said:

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13

Jesus’ sacrifice gave us what living in Australia—or being Australian—could never give: a right relationship with God and the hope of eternal life.

I think as Christians, we are blessed in that we can commemorate Anzac Day with double gratitude: one for those who gave their lives for our nation, and another for Him, to whom all sacrifices are but a glimmer and shadow.

May our Anzac Day remembrance this year lead to lives marked by grace, sacrifice, and hope.

This devotion is sent weekly to staff during school terms. It has been lightly edited for a general audience.