Chaplain

Our current world is full of change, changes that were far from expected and require a good deal of flexibility to navigate. However the changes in the rhythm of life, our social settings, work and school obscure the unchanging. For there are things that do not change that are dependable, reliable, an anchor in the turbulent waters.

I deeply appreciate the truth of God’s unchanging character. The writer of Hebrews put it this way: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Jesus’ compassion, grace, concern for truth, his power and sovereignty will never change. We can firmly stand on His truth to help navigate the other changes in our lives. This is reassuring especially when our own emotions are up and down but his steadfast mercy and love continues despite my perception of life.

The less hectic pace of the lockdown has given us space and time to reflect on the greater issues of life. There is the  opportunity to re-examine our assumptions and priorities and perhaps even dream of a different tomorrow. Even as our leaders talk about returning to a new normal, we dare to think how life might be different and even better. This is a great time to re-examine the Gospels and the words of Jesus. He offers us healing of our hearts broken by our past. He holds out hope for a better future on earth and after death. He provides strength for today giving power to love deeply, care extravagantly and serve passionately. Jesus has not changed, his nature is always to extend a welcoming hand of forgiveness and acceptance, if only we would see it and reach out to grasp it.

The ability to see the truth of Jesus is often obscured by many things around us. There are competing voices, the frantic pace that stops us thinking, the messages of media and social media that lead us in paths unexpected and often unhelpful.

There have been some interesting news articles from around the world of people beginning to see things that have previously been obscured by pollution. Notably in India many have begun to see the Himalayas for the first time. They are amazed as they realised they could see these famous mountains but that pollution had previously made this impossible. I wonder how many other things have come into focus during this time. Certainly I have heard people speaking this way about their family relationships. Parents are rediscovering their children and even children have new appreciation for their families. I wonder if a relationship with Jesus may be one of those things that, as we clear the clutter, we see in a fresh way, finding the part of ourselves that yearns for God. God, like the Himalayas, has always been there unchanging, but now is the time that we can begin to glimpse him and life with him.

Support for our School Community 

The secondary students all have access to the Chapel iLearn course. Parents may like to explore the resources, information and assistance on the pages of that course. Both the Chaplains are happy to assist families in any way we can, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

Ms Bronwyn Lihou
Senior Campus Chaplain
blihou@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9830

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