Being Courageous
By Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain
I’m someone who possesses a fear of heights, so I am full of admiration for those who also share this fear but still find the courage to take part in activities involving heights, such as abseiling.
Last week, I enjoyed being a part of Mentor Group 4's (MeG4) journey through the various Year 7 Camp activities. Taking a backseat from the more strenuous activities with my 'staff card', I was inspired by the students who pushed themselves to abseil and take on the flying fox - one of the highest and longest ones I've seen!
For some students, it was the words of encouragement from the Year 12 Mentors and their friends that gave them the strength to take on these potentially daunting tasks. Hearing one student shout, “This is amazing!” as they flew down the flying fox - after spending much time building the courage to have a go - was a highlight of the camp for me. It was an inspiring moment in which the student drew courage and strength from the words and actions of others.
Having faith and trusting in what others believe we are capable of permits us to take a course of action we might have otherwise passed by.
We've been given examples throughout history of the power of faith and trust. After Jesus’ Earthly ministry concluded, His Disciples drew courage from the Holy Spirit, growing in confidence and strength through their faith in Him to continue the ministry that He began. Indeed, Apostle Paul’s faith provided him with the courage to grow the early church, despite the many obstacles and seemingly insurmountable challenges he faced. Paul drew on his experiences to encourage us to be faithful, courageous and strong, acting out of love (1 Corinthians 16.13-14).
Some of us are lucky enough to find that mustering up courage comes easy - while others need words of love, care and faith from those around them first. I was so impressed by the Year 12 Mentors last week, who, like Paul, used their experiences from camp to encourage the Year 7s. It is these simple acts of love that strengthen the student community.
May you be blessed with the courage you need.
Ash Wednesday
Today marks the beginning of the season of Lent - a time for reflection, prayer and giving in preparation for Easter. On Ash Wednesday, we receive the mark of the cross in ash. This symbol acknowledges before God our shortcomings, the fragility of the world around us and our reliance on God. We journey with Jesus towards and beyond the cross.
At the Start by Rev. Sarah Speed
Is this the fast I choose?
Will I wake with the sun each morning?
Will I start with thank you?
Will I peel back the cage around my frame to let you in or will I get too busy?
Will my Bible collect dust on the shelf, along with my journal, along with my sense of self,
or will I roll back the stone and wade in?
Every new season beckons something of us—
attention, beauty, the chance to create.
This season is no different.
So, like moths to the light, will we find our way toward God, or will we hover, circling fake suns?
I am seeking something deeper.
I am kicking off my shoes.
I am starting this season on holy ground.