A Strong Bulkhead
In June 1942 the British garrison at Tobruk fell to Rommel’s advancing forces. More than thirty thousand troops and mountains of stores and equipment were lost. Winston Churchill received the devastating news by telegram during a meeting with President Roosevelt in the White House. Soon, the newspapers began to blare alarming headlines:
“Anger in England,” “Tobruk Fall May Bring Change of Government,” “Churchill to Be Censured.” Churchill did indeed face a debate in the House of Commons over a vote of censure soon after returning to England. After listening to several days of criticism, he finally stood before the House to respond. One of his remarks contained an element of universal truth:
I cannot pretend to form a judgment upon what has happened in this battle. I like commanders on land and sea and in the air to feel that between them and all forms of public criticism the Government stands like a strong bulkhead. They ought to have a fair chance, and more than one chance. Men make mistakes and learn from their mistakes… you will not get generals to run risks unless they feel they have behind them a strong government.123
I find special meaning in these words as they point logically to another, ultimate authority. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, is our strong bulkhead. With him in our hearts we have the freedom to be ourselves and are no longer subject to fear and anxiety. When our relationship is on sound footing we are able to live bold lives in his service. If he calls us to a task, we know that he will equip us for it and that he will remain faithful to us. We can risk being ridiculed or rejected and always know that our ultimate authority accepts us. Our strong bulkhead will not be moved.
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
—John 8:36
Gen. Erwin Rommel, “The Desert Fox.” (National Archives)
Gen. Bernard “Monty” Montgomery (National Archives)