Can things get any busier?

This article has been prepared for the Nov. Issue of the College Review this year

In the midst of New Testament and Anglicanism essays, Curacy Rounds, Seminar Presentations, Ecclesiology and Old Testament essays, Preparation of CV's, Chapel Rota, Preparing of Sermons for placement, pastoral visiting, Research for project, Project Presentation preparation, mealtimes, writing of prayers for Sunday mornings, Spirituality preparation, preparation for exegesis, College Societies, RTE service, meetings, practicing for carol services and for some the added headache of Greek and Hebrew learning as well as classes to attend as well as keeping things under control in our other lives at home – to say that this is a busy term is a complete and utter understatement!

But then there is one other thing to add to the mix – yup the Bishop's list. All of that said there is a sense that yes, God actually does know what he is doing. Of course, after 2 and a bit years here in this place there is a realisation that God has called us here and we as a group will get through – and more than that will end up in the place to which God has prepared for us.

It is difficult at the moment to see the light at the end of the tunnel with so much work and everyday-ness of what we are doing now but once we take a step back and a look at the bigger picture and the fact that through it all – the assignments, the placements, the lists - God is sovereign – he is working his purposes out. It is to this alone I am clinging!

It is great to be able to turn to the pages of the Bible – to find some great promises

For I know the plans I have for you – plans to prosper and not to harm, plans to give a hope and a future - Jer 29:11

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Prov 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

These promises, more now than ever have to be relied upon. It is to his word that we need to continually turn for strength and for encouragement. Please also do pray for us as we discern God's way through – in conversations and meetings with prospective rectors, as we visit parishes over the next few months. Also please do pray particularly for time management – good periods of work, periods of relaxation, periods of family time and periods of worship / prayer spent in God's presence.