The Last Great Calvary Charge

October 31st 1917

The date, October 31st remains in the history books as “the last great cavalry, and the finest in history” as 800 heroic men and their courageous horses created a legend by achieving a near impossible military victory. 

But in the hearts and minds of those open to the ways of God, it was an amazing spiritual breakthrough, an opening of closed gates. Isaiah14:24 declares, “The Lord of hosts has sworn: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand’.” And the purpose of God was to bring His people back to their Homeland. 

Tim Hall, one of Australia’s leading evangelists who serves on ICEJ Australia’s Board, speaks of the inspiration he received from the life and career of his great uncle, Major General George James Rankin (DSO and Bar), in his book ‘Power Evangelism’. Major Rankin was second in command of those 800 men that broke through the buttress of the Ottoman Empire and released the Land of Israel to await its rightful inhabitants. He won his first Distinguished Service Order following the famous charge at Beersheba. The citation began, ‘As second in Command of the 4th Australian Light Horsemen Regiment, he displayed great gallantry and judgement. Throughout all the operations he, by his personal bravery, and great coolness, considerably influenced all ranks by the splendid example set by him.’

His second distinguished service order was won at the taking of Damascus. The citation included, ‘For great gallantry, dash and initiative during operations, from El Kuneitra to Damascus.’

Tim says, ‘Major George James Rankin was a soldier of soldiers.  I would like to be remembered one day for his qualities. These are characteristics that should be woven into our Christian walk.’ 

Paul reminds Timothy in 2 Tim.1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” And throughout the scriptures we are exhorted to be ‘of good courage’, to ‘fear not’. Our ANZAC soldiers were examples of the attributes vital to all engaged in any kind of battle. Through Jesus the Messiah, we are followers of the LORD of Armies and are required to stand against the principalities and powers that assail our lives, our families, and our culture as we are reminded in Ephesians 6:12-23.

“Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armour so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.” (From ICEJ Australia’s contribution to C4I’s bi-monthly newspaper)