Chaplain

Shrove Tuesday is a traditional festival as the last day before Lent. It is also known as Pancake Tuesday. Students enjoyed pancakes on Tuesday lunchtime as a reminder of the sweetness and goodness of God. The central concept of the Christian Gospel is that we are not saved by our own goodness but by the grace and generosity of God. Our culture tends towards meritocracy and we value a good work ethic, however this can stop us seeing our flaws and limitations. The bible perfectly balances these ideas: we are brought to God by his generous act in Christ, not our own goodness. However, as we experience his love and forgiveness, our lives are transformed and lead to working hard and doing good things. As we lose sight of the grace of God we become either weighed down with the burden of work or arrogant, prideful of our own greatness. Neither is good.

The little respite of sweet syrup and pancakes reminded students that God offers his love and restoration at his own cost, but free to us. The reaction of students as they realised that the pancakes were free, was lovely. Some were surprised, some queried, some wondered if they should make a donation but all enjoyed the pancakes for the taking.

Thanks to the staff and students who gave their time to make this happen.

This week is also International Women’s Day. In Chapel, students have been reflecting on the women who they admire and who inspire them. Amy Carmichael is one of those women for me. Despite poor health, losing her father when she was 18, facing family bankruptcy, she demonstrated remarkable resilience and faith. She moved to India as a response to God’s love and worked there for 50 years. She gave refuge to hundreds of girls and young women as they fled enforced prostitution and was instrumental in bringing social and legal reform to protect these vulnerable people. Her faith in God compelled her to stand and move forward against extraordinarily difficult situations. This is a great model for our students of humble service and resilience.

Blessings

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