There’s a story told about a soldier in World War 1 who was badly wounded in the trenches. As he lay in a hospital bed, the doctor came in to see him with some bad news. “I’m sorry – you’ve lost your arm.” The soldier replied, “I didn’t lose my arm. I gave it.”

ANZAC Day is an opportunity for us to remember and give thanks for those who have willingly given up life and limb for the sake of justice, freedom and peace. While we never celebrate war and conflict itself, we do rightly honour the example of brave men and women who have served their country and the world. That soldier considered his arm a gift, a sacrifice made for a greater cause. But his exemplary attitude is something we’d do well to emulate in any sphere of life. Actually being willing to give of ourselves for the sake of others, not merely looking out for ‘number one’.

The Lord Jesus is the greatest example of self-giving and sacrifice. On earth, He showed perfect love and compassion to all those He encountered, and at the cross. In John 10:11, Jesus said “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” And verse 18, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.”

Jesus did not lose His life, it was not taken from Him, but He gave it, He laid it down. He died to give us a different kind of freedom: spiritual freedom, forgiveness. He rose victorious over death, and one day will return to bring about a world free of the troubles and turmoil we have now. Imagine that! No more war and conflict, but peace forevermore.

So this Anzac Day, as we remember those who have given of themselves for others, may we honour and follow their example. Let us similarly show true love to one another, self-sacrifice, no matter what the cost. And may we look in faith and hope to the One who paid the ultimate price that we might enjoy true freedom forever.