Chaplain

Reflecting on a term in lockdown, holidays in lockdown and at least some of next term in lockdown, has led me to see some of the deep gains of this time. I was writing a list of the things I have found or discovered in the term and I was surprised to find myself writing the word ‘joy’ repeatedly. This gave me reason to pause, ‘Am I really joyful? Has Joy really found me as a result of lockdown?” I had to acknowledge that I am and it has. But don’t stop reading there is more to this. I am not saying there are not some hard things but there is joy as well.

I realised there was joy in connection. I think we too often jump to think about the connections we have lost; we cannot visit someone in person, we miss our workmates, coffee dates and drinks at the pub. However, I realised that I have had a host of different connections: deeper talks with the one person I can exercise with. I have made friends with a number of junior high boys in my local area as they construct bike jumps outside my window. I have connection with my barrista team as I visit each morning for my coffee in a more leisurely way. I have a profound connection with my mother as we spend endless hours together after her short visit has become 12-plus-and-counting weeks. I have a different connection with my grandchild as we regularly face-time with her as she eats her dinner. She even said “grannie” last night! So many different and perhaps deeper connections bring me joy.

I realised there was joy in the simple pleasures of life. Being less busy in the morning means I have appreciated the dappled sunlight through the trees in the early morning and the delight of birdsong as dawn breaks. I have taken a walk most days down to the local park and revel in the rippling water of the harbour and the little children laughing with their parents. I have taken to brewing tea in a pot, using an Italian coffee maker on my BBQ and picking flowers for my home. All these are the result of the slower pace with less things crammed in and less in person obligations. So, my heart and mind have time to breathe and be filled with joy, of the little things.

I have discovered again the joy that comes from mediation and prayer on the rich and ageless words from God in the bible. I have pondered over the letter of Peter, the kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences in the Psalms, the grace and poignance of the words of Jesus in the gospels and the rich concepts of eternity in Colossians. In them I have heard the resonance of life, repentance, truth and joy of the love of God. My body may be locked down but my soul soars as if lifted by eagle’s wings.

So here you see lockdown has led to joy. This is echoing the words in Philippians “Rejoice, in the Lord always”, Paul says and then goes on to discuss contentment concluding:

“¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4: 4,12,13)”

Paul, here is writing from prison, in chains (now that is lockdown!) He shows that even in lockdown we can find contentment and joy, when we rest on the strength and perspective of Jesus.

I hope today you can find in this time a deepening joy.
May God grant you a restful, refreshing and joyful break,

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