Here in Australia, we will celebrate Australia Day on 26 January. Of course, we will have a public holiday. Many will go to the beach, or hike in the bush, watch sport live or on TV, or have a barbeque in the backyard. And perhaps eat lamb chops.
The lucky country – or is it?
We are so blessed live in freedom in our lucky country. Yet, there is controversy about Australia Day and what it represents. Apart from that, many are still reeling after the Bondi Beach shootings on 14 December 2025. 1314 people died on Australian roads in the past year, leaving thousands of loved ones mourning their deaths. Many Australians struggle with the effects of relationship issues, domestic violence, financial difficulty, loneliness, and addiction. Then, when we listen to the news, there are more stories of conflict, war, famine, and trouble. Many are fearful for their own future, and the future of the world.
Disheartened and anxious
In the current world situation, it’s easy to become disheartened or anxious. It’s easy to feel helpless and hopeless in the face of all these disasters. One good piece of news today is the Australian of the Year awards. australianoftheyear.org.au
Australians of the Year
It’s heartening to read about the wonderful work of people like Gerald Garard, who is helping Australian military and first responder personnel recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related mental health issues. Frank Mitchell, an indigenous construction leader, is creating opportunities for Mob. Ian Gay helps people with disabilities enjoy the surf in a fun, safe way. Bryan Lipmann founded Wintringham to provide a safe space where the elderly poor and homeless could live with dignity and respect. Dr Rolf Gomes designed and launched the first Heart of Australia mobile ‘Heart Trucks’ to visit remote communities. Cheryl Harris has been instrumental in driving volunteer engagement and championing the important work that volunteers perform on the Sunshine Coast.
In these difficult times, it’s uplifting to read these stories of hard work and service to help others. These people have not worked for the rewards or accolades, but because of their heart to serve those in need, and to speak up for those who are unable to speak for themselves.
Our servant king
I am reminded of Jesus, true God, who chose to put aside His heavenly glory, and come to Earth as a helpless baby. Then He lived a perfect life and chose to die a torturous death – for us!
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
We are sinful from conception. We ARE sinners. It’s our inherited nature. So, we deserve death and eternal separation from God, in hell. But amazingly, Jesus came to die instead of us. He took the punishment we deserve.
Who is really in control?
We often live like we are in control of our own little world – or we’d like to be. We act like toddlers, stamping their feet and saying, “No!” “Mine” “I don’t want to!” We see world leaders acting if they are the boss of the world, and demanding that their own citizens, or citizens of other countries do whatever they say. They (and we) demand that others give up their rights and freedoms so that the ‘bosses’ can have more power, money, land, servants, comfort, pleasure…
Jesus, although He is true God, came as a servant. He did all the work. He paid the ultimate sacrifice – to save US!
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Not because we deserved it, or because we are so loveable. No, Jesus died because GOD LOVES US!
It’s simple – just believe
And now, we just need to believe that Jesus died for us, so that our sins are forgiven and when we die, we can live with him forever.
He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.
He came to that which was his own, yet his own did not receive him.
Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
John 1:10-12
The Bible says that those who believe are given the right to become the children of God. We are adopted into God’s family. We inherit eternal life.
God did NOT promise peace on Earth for believers. Just the opposite:
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Take heart
It’s encouraging and uplifting to read about the Australians of the Year. You may not receive an award this weekend, or perhaps ever. But because of Jesus, you can inherit the crown of life:
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
So, take heart. God knows all the troubles in your life, your family, your street and in the world. I don’t know the troubles you are facing right now, but I want to encourage you with God’s words:
Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
What about you?
What are your thoughts this Australia Day, about your future, and that of the world?
What big achievements have you made, or hope to make in your life?
Are you encouraged by God’s word to take heart?
Can you trust that God is ultimately in control, even in these difficult times?
I’d really like to hear your thoughts – please leave a comment below.
Related Posts:
The True Christmas Story/Jesus on the Road
Acknowledgement
Thank you to Pastor Matt Wilksch, Arise, Springfield for some of the ideas in this post.