There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 (NLT)
Here in Australia, it's Anzac Day. It's a day the nation stops, and we remember and honour the sacrifice of all the men who served or lost their lives at Gallipoli. On a greater level, it's a day we honour all servicemen who've fought, and who are still fighting. My Pastor often says “sacrifice always comes before honour” and it's true. We don't honour people or organisations when they've done the everyday mundane but when they go over and above the call… Something extra-ordinary!
Risking, and ultimately, laying down your life for the greater good of your fellow countrymen is no small feat. It takes a sense of personal courage and a willingness to let go of your future hopes and dreams for this life.
I personally am not a fan of war and humans killing each other, but I'm determined not to let the sacrifice they made be in vain and worthless to me. In the same way, I'm determined not to let the sacrifice Jesus made for me (and you) go without the honour and life-response due to Him. What I mean by life-response is how our lives outwork as a response to His sacrifice. In Australia, we always end a prayer or thought around our soldiers sacrifice with the words “Lest We Forget”… it's such a powerful sentiment to honour their memories and ultimate sacrifice… That we'd always allow their sacrifice to stay in the forefront of our thinking and remembrance. In the same way, allow the sacrifice Jesus made for us all to remain in the centre of your thinking so that it drives and motivates your responses. This is the greatest way to honour… LEST WE FORGET! Bless you all today…
