Chaplain's Corner: Remember the Good Shepherd is working in the world, one heart at a time

Chaplain's Corner by Colin Johnson, Neighbourhood Chaplain, Hockliffe Street Baptist Church.

Answers to the top ten most asked questions about the Christian faith | Colin Johnson

placeholder image — Answers to the top ten most asked questions about the Christian faith | Colin Johnson

A conversation last week left me thinking about what Jesus would say about our world today. Like so many people, the person I met was anxious and disturbed by what he'd heard on the news. "Things seem to be getting worse", he said. "The wars and injustice. Why does it have to be like this?"

In the Bible, we see that God so loved the world, he sent his son, Jesus (John 3:16). Full of compassion, he healed the sick, cured the blind, and fed the hungry. Jesus knew that much could be done to solve the world's problems, but there's no ultimate "cure" for war, poverty, or injustice.

Conflict within as well as outside of us. | https://pixabay.com/illustrations/fire-and-water-hands-fight-fire-2354583/

Conflict of one kind or another occurs worldwide, but we also have a personal battle to win within. Jesus taught us to look beyond and see that evil comes not only from external circumstances but from inside the human heart.

In Mark 7:20-23, Jesus said, "Out of a person's heart come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."

Jesus calls himself "The Good Shepherd" (John 10:11); he cares, protects, and provides for his sheep. Throughout the Bible, humanity is compared to sheep who go astray or get lost. Sheep need continual care and vigilant protection, and Christ offers us that and so much more. He's a shepherd who seeks out the one lost sheep so we can know him personally. The more we get to know him, the more our hearts are changed.

Next time the news bothers you, remember the Good Shepherd is working in the world, one heart at a time. If you would like to read more about why there is so much suffering in the world, get a free copy of the booklet: '10 Questions: Answers to the Top Ten Most Asked Questions About the Christian Faith'. Available from Delta House, Hockliffe Street (open Monday-Friday 9-2 pm).