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From the Chaplain

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From The Chaplain

Denis Oliver
Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain

Queen Elizabeth II passed away on 8th September 2022.

When I found out about the Queen's death I was shocked.  I was shocked not because I knew her or because I am a Monarchist – I was shocked because it was a big change.

Being naturally curious I googled what other changes occurred on the 8th September. In 1855 British & French forces ended the Crimean War. In 1689 China and Russia signed a treaty that opened trade between them. In 1141 the battle of Samarkand lead to the death of over 10,000 soldiers.  All of these events changed the lives of many.  Why the history lesson? Because change is the only constant in life.

Change, whether good or bad, large or small, brings stress which makes us ask all sorts of questions. What will things be like when Charles is King? How will I go in my HSC? Is my child ready for high school? How will this sickness effect my family?  We want some control in life but we know we do not have it.

What people really need in times of change is a constant. In my opinion, God is that constant in an ever-changing world and life.

“I am the LORD, and I do not change. That is why you descendants of Jacob are not already destroyed.” - Malachi 3:6

God reminds his people that he is changeless, firm in his commitment to his people even when they are changeable - finnicky. God sticks to his word even when his followers do not. I have a God who has life in control and that brings peace even in unhappiness.

The Bible calls us to be changeless, faithful, like our God.

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters... Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. - Hebrews 13

In an everchanging world, I am not in control, but I know the one who is.