Lest We Forget

Each ANZAC Day, we pause to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who served our country. We gather in solemn silence at dawn, laying wreaths and saying, “Lest we forget.” But for many Christian families, remembrance has also been deeply personal—anchored in the hope of Jesus.

As Rev. Dr Colin Bale’s research highlights, the impact of the First World War was devastating—more than 61,000 Australians never returned home. The scale of loss was overwhelming. Yet amid the sorrow, many families turned to the comfort of God’s Word. They chose to inscribe Bible verses on memorials and gravestones—short, powerful declarations of faith. Phrases like “With Christ, which is far better” (Philippians 1:23) and “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deuteronomy 33:27) expressed a deep trust that their loved ones were held securely in God’s care.

These verses weren’t chosen lightly. They pointed to a deeper truth—that even in the face of war and death, God’s promises endure. Families drew strength from the Bible, finding peace in the hope of resurrection and eternal life with Christ.

This ANZAC Day, we honour not only the courage of those who served but the faith of those who remembered. Their example encourages us to grieve with hope, to remember with trust.

As Lamentations 3:21–23 (NIV 2011) reminds us: “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope… great is your faithfulness.” In Christ, we remember the fallen—and we remember the hope that never fades.

By Rev. Matthew Goodman (Assistant Minister)