From the Chaplains

“The nativity story is replete with theological, familial, and political lessons about rest that quietly proclaim God’s goodness to this weary world. With exhaustion rampant in the church — perhaps especially so at Christmastime — we would do well to hear notes of rest sounding from the manger.” – Julian Davis Reid  

I am very grateful as I write my last article for the Pymble newsletter. It has been a privilege and honour to serve as Chaplain here for eight years and do so with the support of all in the community. We have been moving office as well so have been packing up and as we go through this exercise, I have come across numerous handwritten notes and cards sent with love and gratitude. I take this moment to thank God for bringing me to this beautiful place, where I have encountered so many precious people, especially the student and staff community. 

One of the articles I have been reading (All is calm: Scripture’s Radical Call to rest during Advent by Julian Davis Reid) during the holy season of Advent speaks about resting during this busy time before Christmas. It picks on the line from the famous Christmas hymn, Silent Night, focusing on the words: All is Calm.   

As we hustle and bustle moving from one end of year celebration to the other, the Word of God reminds us of the shepherds who were watching their flock by night and taking turns to do so. Some of them were probably sleeping when the angel of the Lord appeared to them.  

Joseph was warned in a dream to take a detour via Egypt to keep Mary and the holy child safe. The Wise Men were warned in a dream to follow Plan B and escape… While he was sleeping God was speaking to him. How often are we so worried about the next day that we deprive ourselves from sleeping? Perhaps we need to sleep more to heal and restore our spirits especially at the end of a busy year.  

During the break whatever your story may be, I hope you can find pause filled moments of gratitude and splendidness. Bushwalks and cuppas, travel maybe, and preparing for a family celebration, whether it be Hanukkah or Christmas.  

May the God who brings peace to our chaos, grant us energy to give ourselves permission to rest, sleep and participate in the dreams of God.  

As I leave your service as College Chaplain, I will continue to pray for you. I am thankful for all the support I have received from all of you and what a privilege it has been to serve at Pymble.  

Thank you and God bless. 

Peace out. 

Reverend Punam Bent  

College Chaplain