Thoughts on the fairness of life

As Christians, we are blessed with a God-given sense of purpose that directs our lives toward Christ and fills our hearts with unconditional love and faith. So, the idea of fairness is seemingly straightforward; however, it’s often subjective at its core. Fairness is characterised by impartiality and honesty, being free from self-interest, prejudice or favouritism. 

The truth that is sometimes overlooked is that we all directly connect with God. When I am confused or worried, I sit quietly and pray. Afterwards, I feel a sense of peace and serenity. Some people are guided by their faith in God, while others ignore it and may not even be aware of its existence.

I recently received the heartbreaking news of the passing of an old school friend, Caroline. She bravely fought cancer for ten years. It’s difficult to comprehend her husband and young son’s loss. Her boy will have to navigate his formative years without the warmth and love of his devoted mother. I can’t even fathom the enormity of their pain. Having experienced the loss of both my parents within a short period, I understand the heavy burden of grief. However, I also know that opening our hearts to faith can bring a glimmer of hope, much like a sunrise after a long, dark night.

Despite my parents not being physically here, they live on through my sons, brothers and me. As my mum often said: “God works in mysterious ways.” His permanence isn’t measured in the same earthly way that we measure what seems fair. It transcends time and place; the closer our hearts are to God, the easier it is to decipher what is fair. It is exemplified in James 2:1-5 (ESV):

“My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing, say, ‘You sit here in a good place.’ In contrast, you say to the poor man, ‘You stand over there,’ or, ‘Sit down at my feet,’ have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?’

We have been created in God’s image, and by putting our trust in God and his infinite wisdom, life becomes more meaningful. As Peter said: “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” (2 Peter 1:3).

As I stand upon

this rock,

Balancing and second-guessing,

Lord, give me the strength to stand tall.

As I bury my head

in heartache,

Struggling and feeling despair,

Lord, bring me peace and salvation.

As I walk towards your light,

Wrap me in your warmth and strength.

Lord, your presence is all the peace I need.

Thank you,

dear Father,

For this bountiful life with its obstacles and miracles.

Lord, I walk with

you with every breath I take.

Amen.