Chaplain's Message

As I sat on the plane to Darwin this week, surrounded by “weather” (mist and cloud), barely able to see the end of the wing, I felt quite safe. 

Experience told me the pilot knew what he was doing. The instruments would be well maintained and, with his skill and guidance he was highly likely to lead us safely to our destination. Even though it was a little bumpy, I had every confidence that we would land safely! At no point did I blame the airline for the bad weather or assume that, in the midst of turbulence, the pilot had somehow abandoned his post. On the contrary, I trusted that he would be at his most vigilant.

As I reflect on the journey of life, it can be much the same. Sometimes the path is wonderfully clear, filled with sun-kissed vistas or starry nights. We may find ourselves in those “thin places,” where heaven feels close and our hearts are light, where all seems well and nothing feels out of place. Most of the time, we simply plod faithfully along the path before us. Then there are seasons when the clouds roll in, visibility drops to zero, storms gather, and we feel very alone.

It is then we are tempted to think God has left us. We may blame Him for our circumstances, and the mountaintop experiences can feel a million miles away. 

Yet how often does He need to prove His faithfulness? Scripture reminds us that it is precisely in these moments that He is closest. God is not a magician who removes every hardship or guarantees our constant happiness. Rather, His strength is most powerfully revealed in our weakness.

In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul speaks of pleading with God to remove the “thorn in his flesh.” God’s response was “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Paul goes on to say, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Similarly, Isaiah reassures us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

May we wrap that promise around ourselves like a cloak, especially in seasons of uncertainty.

Tread gently - God bless.

Sarah Pollitt 

College Chaplain