Anzac day is the most secular holy day within the year for Australia, and one seen not ‘taking a knee’ can easily been cancelled and vilified in our media or online if not in person. Therefore approaching the remembrance of the ANZACs from a Christian perspective involves Godly wisdom, recognizing the complexities and ambiguities of war, while maintaining a commitment to peace, and honouring those who died, by doing our upmost to prevent others dying in future wars. Here are some ways to personally remember the ANZACs without idolizing or glorifying war:
- Embrace Nonviolence: As Christianity emphasizes the teachings of Jesus, including his call to nonviolence and peacemaking. Remember the ANZACs with a commitment to learn from the past and promoting peace and nonviolent conflict resolution in the future.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9
- Acknowledge the Tragedy of War: Recognize the tragedy of war and the immense human suffering it entails. Remember the ANZACs with compassion for all who were affected by war, including soldiers, civilians, and families.
Read about the – The Siege of Jerusalem (Lamentations): The book of Lamentations mourns the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. The prophet Jeremiah gives us a glimpse of the suffering of the people, the starvation, and the violence that occurred during the siege, portraying the horrors of war. - Critically Examine Nationalism: Christians need to be wary of nationalism and its potential to lead to idolatry and conflict. Approach the remembrance of the ANZACs with a critical perspective on nationalism, acknowledging the dangers of any glorification of militarism and promoting divisive narratives.
“He shall judge between many peoples, and shall decide disputes for strong nations far away; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” Micah 4:3
- Highlight Stories of Peacemaking: Alongside remembering the ANZACs, uplift stories of individuals and communities who worked for peace during times of conflict. Remembering the nurses and stretcher bearers who also risked their lives, not to take lives, but to save lives. Celebrate acts of compassion, reconciliation, and those who showed love in the worst times.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” John 3:16-17
- Pray for Healing and Reconciliation: Offer prayers for healing and reconciliation among nations and peoples affected by war. Pray for the well-being of veterans, refugees, the men, the women and the children who continue to suffer the consequences of past conflicts.
“I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will lead him and restore comfort to him and his mourners, creating the fruit of the lips. Peace, peace, to the far and to the near, says the Lord, and I will heal him.” Isaiah 57:18-19 - Promote Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Remember the ANZACs by advocating for forgiveness and reconciliation, both on a personal and societal level. Support efforts to address past injustices and build bridges between divided communities.
(The Lord’s Prayer): “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Matthew 6:9-13
- Commit to Active Peacemaking: Take concrete actions to promote peace and justice in your community and beyond. Engage in dialogue, advocacy, and service initiatives that address the root causes of conflict and contribute to building a more just and peaceful world.
“Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Psalm 34:14
By remembering the ANZACs through the lens following Christ, we can honour their memory and the need for salvation of all mankind, while also striving for a future where the lessons of history guide us towards peace, reconciliation, and the common good.
