Wise words with...

ANZAC Day

It was an honour to participate in the Dawn Service at Greenwell Point on Tuesday 25 April. Many teachers, students and parents left home in the wee hours of the morning to march in support of those who have served in the Defence Force. There was also a magnificent turnout in Nowra for the March. I would like to thank all the people who participated in these events and I understand people would have participated in other locations as well.

I see the ANZAC services as upholding and teaching so many of the characteristics that we hold dear as a nation.

Briefly, there is the recognition of the self-sacrificial service of our Defence personnel in many cases at great cost. There is the solemnity of the occasion fostering respect for those who have served on behalf of the nation. There is an outward display of discipline from those who are in the official parties. And there is an acknowledgment of the courage of our service personnel as we hear the stories of the ANZACs. Self-sacrifice, service, respect, discipline and courage. I’m sure you could think of other characteristics that are encouraged and taught through the services. 

Paul writes in his letter to the Philippians

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Paul tells the Philippians to think about the things which are true and noble and right and pure and lovely and admirable. And he says to put the things he has been teaching them into practice. As we look at those whom we admire, and we do this at ANZAC day, can I encourage us to put them into practice ourselves and to point these things out to our children.