When I was in London recently I visited the major art installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red at the Tower of London. I viewed in the early evening when the floodlit display of poppies was at its eeriest. It marks one hundred years since the first full day of Britains involvement in the First World War. Created by ceramic artist Paul Cummins, with setting by stage designer Tom Piper, 888,246 ceramic poppies have progressively filled the Towers famous moat over the summer. Each poppy represents a British military fatality during the war. The poppies encircle the iconic landmark, creating not only a spectacular display visible from all around the Tower but also a location for personal reflection. The scale of the installation intends to reflect the magnitude of such an important centenary creating a powerful visual commemoration. All of the poppies that make up the installation have been sold, so raising millions of pounds which will be shared equally amongst six service charities in the UK. The significance of the vital work that these charities provide is especially poignant as we mark the centenary of the First World War and remember all those who lived and fought during this time. The amazing sight of poppies filling the moat at the Tower of London is a vivid reminder that there are some things in life that we dare not forget. The sacrifice of the men in WW1 was costly but effective. As a Christian these great sacrifices remind me of the price that Jesus paid to provide redemption. The price was great - His death - but the outcome is assured - salvation for those who turn to God and believe. The New Testament teaches that Christ died for our sins the result of which means that if we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Men and women gave their lives for our freedom and we salute them. Lets make sure we dont forget the freedom that was bought both at Calvary and in WW1. (Extract from Your Five for the Day, Monday, 17 November 2014)
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 23:42:52 +0000
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