The fragility of life
The events of the last two weeks have reminded us all how fragile life can be. Struck by the loss of a colleague, a teacher, a friend, many of us have probably asked, “Why?” Life can often be so unfair; tragedy so indiscriminate.
The events have reminded us what is important. No one ever wants to reach the end of their life wishing that they had worked more; rather, we all wish we had more time to love, and be loved. We all want to know that our life matters, that we have made a difference.
I would like to thank you. I have simply been staggered by the support the entire community has given to each other. The messages of concern, the prayers offered and the willingness of almost every parent who was able to keep their Year 7-10 child at home to enable staff to attend the funeral; thank you. St Paul’s says it values community, and it does. It is tangible, practical, real.
As many may know, I am a deeply committed Christian. My hope is in Christ. For me, like everyone, death is tragic. Grief and loss is real. They are journeys we would rather not take, but we must. A week before Asimina’s passing I lost a family friend to the same cause. He was staying with my brother in Tanzania. He tried to revive him, but sadly couldn’t.
However, I find comfort in the knowledge that in Christ this life that we know is not all there is. It isn’t pointless. Our beings have been created for an eternal dwelling place. I find comfort in the words Jesus offered His disciples, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me.”
