The Greatest Love

On the wall of Jamberoo Anglican Church there are two honour boards: one for World War One, and one for World War Two.

Every Sunday, I see these two lists of very people who offered themselves in service to their king and country.

Some names are extra special, for next to their name they have a small cross which shows us that they gave their life for their country.

When they left for war, I wonder if they expected to die?

Regardless, they still gave their lives for us. Some gave their bodies, but all gave their hearts and minds and souls. 

Nobody returned the same: everyone lost something, some lost everything. They sacrificed their lives for those they loved, and they did so willingly… but why?

These days we spend our time trying to live longer, and we fill our days pursuing health and wealth. So why would we risk our wellbeing for the sake of others?

I think it’s because of Jesus, who modelled sacrifice when he died for his friends.

Before his death he said: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

Jesus modelled sacrifice when he died for his friends, and he cut his life short to offer eternal life. His attitude has inspired our servicemen and women.

Jesus showed that it’s better to give than receive, and that sacrificing one’s life is the greatest love of all. Jesus sacrificed his life to bring justice and mercy. He died to take our punishment, so his followers will be forgiven.

His sacrifice brings true forgiveness for his followers. It cost him everything, but he did it for love.

When I see the honour boards at my church, I see very important names: those who served showed there’s more to life than health and wealth.

For the greatest love lays down one’s life for one’s friends.

JODIE McNEILL