As we attend Anzac services and marches this week, it is fitting that we pause and reflect on what it all means. How have our lives been affected and changed as a result of those ANZACS, servicemen and women past and present, and the many sacrifices they have made and will make in past and future conflicts?
Each and every morning since I can remember, I have woken up in complete peace and safety, in a comfortable home, in a neighbourhood free from conflict, in a city free from war, in a country free from oppression. I drive my child to school in a car I own, to receive a quality Christian education, in a school of my choosing. I am not persecuted or imprisoned for my beliefs, nor told what I can and can’t do. I go to a place of employment where I am not discouraged, but rather encouraged, to speak about the gospel, pray openly with colleagues, and share the truth with the students I teach. I attend a church that is free to meet and even advertise within the community, unafraid of persecution or imprisonment. I live in a country that is not run by a dictatorship, not oppressed by evil leaders or controlled by communist rulers. It is very evident to me just how much my life has been affected and improved as a result of the ANZACS. And while it all remains this way, I must remain immensely grateful.
This week, we have the privilege of welcoming a former Mueller student, Captain Corey Anderson, as the special guest at our Anzac Remembrance service. One of the traditions of our Remembrance service is to take a moment to remember and honour all past Mueller College students who have served or currently serve in our armed forces. Captain Corey Anderson is part of this honour roll, having graduated in 2006 and now serving with the 2nd Health Battalion in Brisbane, as chief Military Training Officer.
As a school community, we recognise the incredible blessing it is that while contributing in such a significant way, none of our past students have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We continue to pray fervently for God’s supernatural protection to remain upon them and are extremely proud of their contribution to society.
Whilst history reminds us of the many killed or injured while protecting our shores and defending our freedoms and way of life; a far greater freedom was gained through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This week reminds us also that Jesus’ death was different, as he knew exactly what was to come, when it was to come, each and every detail. Yet he remained obedient in his mission. Jesus’ death on the cross, and subsequent resurrection, has secured us a freedom from sin, guilt, and judgement for all eternity. A freedom to experience the fullness of this life, his abounding grace and forgiveness each and every day. And how do we gain such freedom?
Romans 10:9-10 asserts: ‘If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved’.
