ANZAC Day + NBUS + Hero Arts Poppy Sympathy

Well, today is 25th April - ANZAC day for all who live in Aust and NZ. As 2020 is such a different year, so this is a different ANZAC day. 
On this day we Aussies and Kiwis remember all who’ve given lives and served in war for our countries.
(At 6am I managed to stand at end of driveway as the last post was played loudly on radio I had with me, remembering with the thanksgiving)

On Sunday 25th April 1915, our joint forces (Australia New Zealand Army Corps) landed on the shores of Gallipoli, Turkey. An inept choice for landing, as these troops faced steep cliffs and a strong attacking Turkish force. This dramatic, especially sad defeat has become a unifying symbol for our countries. Here we achieved nationhood in a bloodbath of fighting, the like of which has never been forgotten by Australia or New Zealand.

I decided to make this poppy card in memory of all who served for their country, anf also in special memory of a very dear sister in Christ.

Recipe: Hero Arts layering popy stamps, NBUS Circle Graph stencil by Hueys mask, greeting disc Sympathy Set by Inspired by Stamping. Red Versafine, heat embossed. Frame by Wonky Rectangle Creatif dies, Kraft cardstock.

I know from one family member, that the Bible has more meaning on the battle field than in times of peace. 

The reality of God's presence may mean much in peace, when we know and love Him - but how much more if we might lose our life at any moment!
 Thought upon this verse, really referring to Christ's sacrifice for us, but also others too. 
See John 15:13. 
"Greater love hath no man than this, than he lay down his life for his friend."

In WW1 Australia and New Zealand, two small emerging nations, lost 80,00 men and had over 200,00 casualties, a total of 280,000 lives taken or never to be the same again.
So many families decimated by it all.

That's why we say together:

"In the morning,

And at the going down of the sun,

We will remember them.

Lest we forget."

A special prayer today, for all today serving in the armed forces of every nation, that they may be kept safe and to come to a saving knowledge of our LORD and Saviour, Jesus Christ. 
Also praying for all who are fighting a different war, the medical war against COVID-19, may the LORD bless all caring hands, save eternally their souls, and those for whom they care. 
And thank you LORD, for the freedom we have in our nation, to love and worship bought at such a cost. 
Thank YOU, Lord Jesus,  too for giving Your life,  so we might live by faith in You. Amen.
Prayer  hugs, 🙏🤗❤
Shaz in Oz.x 

This message on ANZAC Day, 2020 gives more history and insights, by our Pastor. (Link here)

Linking over to:

1. Darnell's NBUS (NEVER Before Used Schtuff) challenge. https://mynbus.blogspot.com/

2. Word Art Wednesday - anything goes. Two cards  http://wordartwednesday.blogspot.com.au/

3. Flower power at SimonSays Wednesday challenge. https://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/simon-says-flower-power/