Chaplains Message

During our holidays, my wife and I stayed in a Motel near the beach. we were excited about having a break and not having to keep house. well, after arriving, we found that it was nothing like in the advertisements. the room had not been cleaned properly, there were tiles on the walls that were chipped and broken, the fridge freezer was clogged up with ice; there was no stove to speak of, only a rusty portable twin hot plate, and the list goes on.

We were offered another room which wasn’t much better. We were all worked up and quickly got to a point where we just wanted a refund and go home. When that was refused, we had to make the most of the situation.

What were complaining about? We were able to have a holiday; we were near the beach; we have somewhere to stay; what a great view; we are here together. So what if we had to clean up a bit and make do with what we had. We began to feel quite embarrassed about our attitude. We remembered the words that Paul wrote to the Colossians and the Thessalonians.

Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you are called to peace. And be thankful.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”.

Even in our times of genuine disappointment, sadness, struggle or pain, we can know God’s peace and permit it to rule our hearts. And in that peace, we can have an attitude of gratefulness for all God has given us.

Prayer:- God, how often we complain about things that are mere inconveniences. Help us never lose sight of your goodness and love to us. Please give us a heart full of gratitude. Amen

Chaplain Ron.