After the Holy Land this was always going to be the special part of our trip learning more about my heritage in the English culture not to mention a visit to the home of our current head of state. I’m also very aware that living in Australia I have an aboriginal heritage (especially growing up in a suburb named “Moorooka”) but there is no doubt England has been the cultural heritage which has shaped my values. This has been the cradle of civilisation as I have known it even although the history at times has been anything but civilised.

It is the story of Kings and Queens and how they gained power and lost it. Overall it is the story of the march from monarchy to democracy – the power of one to the power of many (the people). One of the arguments often heard in support of the monarchy is that it provides very stable government. Well, only in recent history because the wider picture is one of intrigue, insurrection, family feuds, murder, forced marriages, national and civil war. As we have travelled around it has been great to hear the stories which have shaped English history. Previously my knowledge was meagre, coming from primary school, quiz show geniuses and of course reformation history learnt whilst studying theology.

Continue reading THE MONARCHY | REFLECTIONS ON THE UK →

History shapes us more than we realise. We are born into a culture at a particular time and place and as a child we imbibe the mores of that culture without much thought or reflection. Only adulthood gives us the ability to reflect on those values and make judgements about whether to hold onto them into the future. Many people choose their values confident in their own insight and with little knowledge of history. How sad! History brings wisdom to the table and helps us to avoid the mistakes of the past as well as pointing out the noble qualities of former great ones which could make for a better future.

Touring through the United Kingdom one is struck again and again by the history. This is the history which has formed me and made me who I am more than I can grasp. I would like to share with you a few stories I have picked up along way which have helped me to better understand life as I experience it and hopefully make me a wiser person to chart a better course for the future.

Continue reading HISTORY – DOES IT MATTER? | REFLECTIONS ON THE UK →

The beautiful crystal clear waters and tree covered slopes belie the dark history of this celebrated place. What a difference 99 years make. I feel like an imposter arriving in my air-conditioned tourist coach.

I think of my grandfather arriving by boat but certainly without a welcome mat. For him a hail of bullets, for me a shop with ice cream and drinks. For him passage via the Aegean Sea, for me I arrive from Istanbul. For him an encounter with the enemy Turk, for me only friendly Turks embracing thousands upon thousands of Aussie pilgrims every year.

This is a place of sacrifice; a place where human blood has been spilt – both Aussie & Turk along with that of many other nations. Monuments abound to the bravery of all, and that courage and sacrifice now brings a unity that wants to bring an end to the stupidity of war.

But war will have its way and we are all its accomplices. It may be the high spirits of young men sailing off to the other side of the world on a great adventure; Generals [old men] wanting to leave their mark in the annuls of war history; religions trying to prove their God is more powerful; ethnic groups afraid of genocide, therefore strike them before they strike you; the need for empire to produce the economic benefits people have come to expect; or just old fashioned human qualities like jealousy, vanity, prejudice and pride.

Where can we look for salvation? The ultimate sacrifice which brings unity is the cross. Here blood flowed freely to deal with the deeply flawed human condition.

I echo the words of St Paul. Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.