‘Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may become blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world.’
(Philippians 2:14-15)
I read this verse today in my early morning quiet time, and realised that it is spot-on for me today. It is interesting how, so often, a verse will speak into our daily lives.
As chaplains, we are outside our sanctuary place, fully engaged in the world, and needing to respond to those we see and hear. We do not have the security of the rectory study or church pulpit. We are always the guest. This is a great opportunity to relate to those around us. In time, we can build up relationships with trust and this, in turn, gives us the platform to tell the good news of Jesus Christ in a sensitive and respectful way.
There are times, however, when the news we hear is unsettling. Injustice and misunderstanding can go hand in hand. We see interactions that harm others (or ourselves). There is a great danger that these experiences take on an emotional power that can have an adverse effect on our health. We can then become embroiled in argument – as it were, tarnished by the events that are affecting us.
Paul here in Philippians gives us good advice. He recognizes that Christians are called to be distinctive in an environment that is often inhospitable and contrary to the Christian way of life. By being gentle, quiet and gracious, and learning to become emotionally self-controlled when events around us are difficult, we proclaim the hope that we have. I know it is easier said than done!
Yesterday I was in Wells Cathedral for the annual dedication service. I had just heard some unsettling news. The service was full of theatre and ceremony, with the grandeur and formality of clerical dress and outstanding choral singing. As I looked up into the vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows, there was a real sense of the glory of God, and our small place in the great scheme of things. I came to see that the power of difficult facts and feelings are for Him to sort out. We need to learn to trust and not be afraid. This perhaps is a glimpse of the peace that Jesus promises – a ‘peace that the world cannot give.’ (John 14:27)
Revd Canon Nigel Rawlinson
University Chaplain
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