Chaplain

Hopes and dreams are so important for each of us as we negotiate life. Due to the current lockdown situation, our hopes may erode as the path before us may be hard to see. Some of my students have been exploring the biblical understanding of Hope.

Hope in the bible is not a wish nor optimism. It is not reliant on us, nor is it fuelled by the sense that we have succeeded previously and have reason to have confidence in ourselves. The bible talks of the sure hope; the certainty and assurance of the unshakeable future. This is the sort of hope that acts like an anchor. It holds us firm and steady though we may bob up and down and move around in the currents and waves. The basis for this solid hope is the unchanging, faithfulness and compassion of the almighty God.

The bible and the historical Jesus provide for us a tangible assurance that God is able and certain to fulfil his promises. The promises that he will fulfill his purposes, that he will renew the earth and extinguish evil, death and pain. The promises he will be with us and gives us abundant and eternal life. This sort of hope is the balm for the pains of this world and the uncertainties of the moment.

All these promises come to us as we trust in Jesus. Perhaps this is something you have put up on the shelf with the bible; perhaps now is the time to get it down and look again; Perhaps you have dismissed Jesus as myth so why not use some time to research and see if this is a historical reliable position. Perhaps you were once close to Jesus but life has just drifted you away, this is an invitation to renew your faith. Perhaps this is entirely outside your understanding, let me encourage you that faith renews, refreshes and bring hope.

The path may be unclear before us as the future of lockdown and return to “normal” is clouded by more outbreaks. This reminds me of the Psalmist who knew the absolute hope in God, who said

‘Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.’
(Psalm 23:4)

The path ahead may seem dark, confusing and difficult but God holds out his hands to lead us through with comfort.

As a Chaplaincy Team we know there may be some questions and challenges at present and so we always welcome enquires. Reach out through the emails below and we will be more than happy to listen and assist you in your search for hope.

A reminder that the Redlands Parents’ Prayer meeting will be next Thursday 5 August online at 8pm for 30 minutes. Those parents keen to join in, please email Sally Swan and she will send you the zoom link closer to the time. Looking forward to seeing you there. 

Ms Bronwyn Lihou
Senior Campus Chaplain
blihou@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9909 3133

Ms Fiona McKenzie
Junior Campus Chaplain
fmckenzie@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9953 6022