‘… Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.…”’

(John 17:20-21)

The theme at chapel throughout Term 2 has been ‘Journeys’. The boys have been invited to consider the importance of recognising the various journeys that take place in life, including that of migration and moving, pushing through the reluctance of commencing something new, the journey of the young and the notion that a journey may involve changing our direction and perspective. The underlying theme throughout each chapel message has been to make the most of whatever journey we’re on, as this forms the basis for change, growth and character development. If we become too caught-up in the perceived destination; the HSC/IB exams, the ideal career, finishing school or even retirement, we may miss the joy that comes from the experiences along the way.

For many, the notion that the ultimate destination is ‘Heaven’ or ‘the afterlife’ is a source of great hope that is embedded within Christianity and other faith-based religions. The motivation to withstand persecution and hardship takes shape in the knowledge that something far greater awaits. As much as this may be a reality, what is also worth noting is that the journey toward this destination has already begun. The religious leaders during the time of Jesus were waiting for some physical spectacle to take place as a means of welcoming in ‘The Kingdom of God’, yet little did they realise that the King was already standing amongst them; the Kingdom had already come.

It’s like taking a family road trip to a distant town, anticipating that the destination will make the arduous journey ‘all worthwhile’, only to realise that the road trip itself was what should have made the journey worthwhile; time with the family and the ensuing memories of experiencing life together. A friend of mine recently took a break with his family where they flew to various locations around the world. When I asked him about his trip, the thing he enjoyed the most was not any amazing, cultural experience, but rather the time spent flying between cities as it meant sitting together with his wife and children, enjoying each others’ company.

For Newington students, the journey has well and truly begun. Every day is an experience that should be savoured as precious; an opportunity to learn something new, to create memories with their cohort, to discover something new about themselves and to bask in the many wonders that surround us. In the words of Drake, the Canadian musician, “It’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination”.

Thank you to Mr Peter Laurence, Mr Rod Wood, Mr Graeme Philips and Mr Will van Asperen for presenting the chapel message during the Week 18B/19A cycle, where each has spoken about their personal journey. It has been inspiring to have various Newington staff share such authentic insight. 

Rev. Geordie Barham 
College Chaplain