I remember being asked many times as a youngster: “What do you want to do when you grow up?’’ My first answer to that question was to be a bus driver. I thought that was the best job there could be, until I thought I might be a train driver! Playing drivers was one of my favourite childhood activities. Being a teacher, ordained minister and school chaplain did not formulate until much later.

I was thrilled to learn that two of our past graduates, Jonathan Ward (2006) and Joshua Ord (2009), have recently been ordained as Deacons within the Anglican Church of Australia, Sydney Diocese. This follows their decision to pursue full time Christian ministry as their vocation, with both working as Assistant Ministers in Anglican churches in the Blue Mountains. Our own Mr Ward, father of Jono, commented that “It was a very happy occasion as we saw Jonathan off on this important and chosen path in life which will not be easy but will give him the opportunity to use his gifts to help others know the light and life of the gospel and find hope and help in a troubled world.”

Would you to join in praying for God’s blessings as they seek to serve God faithfully now and in the future? Not all are called to serve in full time ordained Christian ministry, as most Christians seek to serve God in the everyday nature of work, church and family life. I am encouraged, however, by the stand these two Thomas Hassall men have made to publicly commit their lives to serving God and others. It causes me to recommit myself as well.

Have you ever wondered what is the focus and legacy of your own work? Our students are encouraged to pursue excellence in the areas of learning, wisdom and service. While our own personal and professional development is important, have you ever wondered what it’s all for? We all have the opportunity to live lives in God’s service and that of our neighbour.

I am reminded in Matthew’s Gospel that Jesus shared about himself: “…just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”(Matt 20:28). As we journey towards Easter, might we be even more conscious of how we live in response to Jesus’ sacrificial service on the cross of Calvary. 

Rev Jim Dayhew
College Chaplain