Chaplains’ Chat

I am sure we can all think of those times when we have let someone down. Perhaps it was a word against a loved one, even a silence when a word should have been spoken, or a denial of an event that had taken place. Often, the deeper we love someone, the harder it is to deal with the consequences and effects of our actions. In many ways, it goes to the heart of the importance we place on relationships and, especially, those we love. Because we all treasure relationships so highly, we don’t want to let the other person down as a result of mistakes.

This Term in Chapel we are looking at the School’s New Testament Bible reading which is 1 Peter 2:11-25. The context of these verses is that they are written by the Apostle Peter, who was not only the one who denied Jesus three times at his trial, but was also the one who was welcomed back and forgiven by Jesus. This would have stayed with Peter for the rest of his life. Peter had received God’s mercy, so he can write at the start of 1 Peter 2:11 that people are beloved or loved by God. Perhaps we often overlook this simple and yet profound meaning that this has.

We have all experienced the love of family and friends. And yet Peter can write of God’s love for us, even when he knew what it was like to let God down. God has been gracious for Peter and for us and, as a result, wants us to live God’s ways in our lives. What a great encouragement this is for all of us.

Rev. Anthony Benn
Chaplain