Chaplains’ Chat

There are so many good and wonderful things about life. While Sydney and parts of the state have had a fair amount of rain in the past few months, we should be thankful for all the benefits that this brings. Yes, I do know that there will be some disappointment when sport is called off! However, we should also be thankful for the sunny blue skies that we also experience. But more than the weather, we enjoy much in this country. We typically have material things in abundance, such as provisions, clothing, houses, as well as friends and families. The danger in having so much is that we sometimes have this subtle mindset that starts to influence us to have more and more. Enough never seems to be enough.

In Chapel this week, we were reminded in Ephesians 4:27 that: “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Stealing is essentially all about being a taker. Taking what is not ours. It is contrary to the God of the Bible, who is a giver. He gives us much in life, and above all this, he has given his son Jesus. We are reminded in this verse that even work is a good thing from God, and yet even in our work and enjoying the material benefits of this, we are encouraged to be generous and give to those in need. Of course, our giving can take many forms, such as giving money, spending time with others, volunteering, and supporting others. May we continue to be people who give, just as God has given to us.

Rev Anthony Benn
Chaplain