Chaplain

Choose Faith not Fear

One of the amazing things about being a teacher or a Chaplain is the delight we get when a student really teaches us. Their insight or the way they phrase their understanding makes us stop and think more deeply. This was my experience when Year 1 submitted videos of Jesus calming the storm. (Mark4:35-41) They were a delight to watch and hear their interpretations. One student used the harbour as a backdrop and beautifully told the story: the drama of the storm coming suddenly upon the boat; the fear of the disciples as they thought they were about to drown; the irony of Jesus sleeping in the tossing waves; the impact of the storm silencing at his command.

Yet the golden moment was at the end with the conclusion that the disciples had chosen fear over faith. This, the student observed, is the same choice we have today.

When faced with uncertainty of COVID, lockdown or more personal challenges, we too can choose faith and trust in the care and presence of God or choose fear instead. Yet it is worth thinking what does choosing faith look like? It certainly does not mean we are exempted from the lockdown restrictions or from being vaccinated. It certainly does not mean everything will be easy with ready solutions. The same disciples later chose faith and most were executed because of that faith. However, I think there is a profound connection between trusting God in the midst of difficulty, and developing resilience. Faith says that God is ultimately sovereign and will bring his plans to fruition. Though I may not understand the process I can trust him in the destination. Faith says God is a good Father and so I can be sure that he will bring good and maturity in the situation as I trust him. Faith says, ‘How can I grow in my love and trust of God in this situation?’

The alternative is to ignore God, instead facing the changes and chances of this world with no assurance of eternal purpose. This leads to fear as all I can rely on is myself. Every twist and turn of life are unchartered and uncertain in their destination. Fear can overcome: fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of death, fear of life.

As I reflect on this another verse comes to mind “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18) and so we return to the heart of the good news about Jesus. God loves us and, in that truth, we find joy, peace and salvation.

Whatever you may be facing at this moment can I encourage you to seek the God, who loves you, so that you can choose faith not fear.

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