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You might think I'm referring to the drama of Ashes cricket - the heroics of Sir Ashton Agar and the heartbreak of Brad Haddin in the first test. What a game! It's not easy being in London after a loss like that. However I'm referring to different ashes and to a real Sir; not to cricket but to a cathedral - Sir Christopher Wren's St Paul's in Trafalgar Square. The masterpiece of Britain's most famous architect, the present church was built between 1675 and 1710, after its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The Great Fire burned for four days and destroyed much of old London (70000 out of 80000 houses and 37 churches). Wren's vision out of the ashes, of 'architecture aiming for eternity', became the symbol of English hope during the Second World War. The German blitz of 1940 became known as the Second Great Fire of London. On Sunday December 29 the same streets destroyed in 1666 were again in flames. Winston Churchill sent word that St. Paul's must be saved at all costs to maintain morale. As bombs rained down an incendiary landed on the cathedral's roof but miraculously rolled off without exploding. St Paul's was saved and stood sentinel throughout the blitz amidst the chaos and carnage. Aiming for Eternity! Saved at all costs! Cricket and the Cathedral! The next test commences on Thursday at Lords. I plan to go and watch the Australians train. But there is a far bigger test administered by the true Lord that promises a far greater victory and which we all must pass, or be lost.
'Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.' (2 Corinthians 13:5-6)
- comments
Pierre Very nice! I'm in the East of France, and I still wanted to explore your blogs, Dan!!! And I don't regret. It is a real pleaure!!!
Phillip Nash Great stuff Dan. Enjoy the Ausseis practicing, I hear that's when they play their best!