Rev. Justin Colón, chaplain at Robinson School in San Juan, a missionary-founded girls’ school that has grown into an international, English-speaking co-ed prep school, says his work with students is grounded in a steady sense of hope shaped by his faith.

As I read the events of the last supper, I can’t help but notice the reaction of the disciples to the news that one of them would betray Jesus. They didn’t all look to Judas, pointing a finger at the obvious culprit. One by one, each questioned: Is it I, Lord? Could it be me?

I find peace in perspective. I also find strength, particularly when I feel overwhelmed. Perspective helps me understand that what is in front of me need not determine my fate. Japanese poet Nanao Sakaki said it best with his poem, "Break the Mirror."

Twenty years ago, a mentor saw me starting to burn out. He encouraged me to take a personal retreat. This was both renewal and challenge – could I let myself BE for just a couple of days? A part of the plan was to go to Olympic National Park, just to walk in the meadows. With no hat, no food, no extra water, and Birkenstocks on my feet, I headed into the mountains.

For the Rev. Dr. Sharad Creasman, hope shows up every day at Brevard College, often in the smallest, most human moments. “I am inspired by students’ giggles, laughter, smiles, vocational interests, questions about life, and everything in between, and their dreams about their futures."

This Lenten season, I invite us to loosen our grip on the need to capture, control, or fully comprehend the Divine. What if the most profound truth is that the Sacred is beyond our ability to fully name and too infinite to capture in syllables and words?

For the Rev. Dr. Sharad Creasman, hope shows up every day at Brevard College, often in the smallest, most human moments. “I am inspired by students’ giggles, laughter, smiles, vocational interests, questions about life, and everything in between, and their dreams about their futures."

Now, in a new office and new setting, that Scott Erickson print hangs proudly. You’ll see it just over my shoulder on Zoom calls, reminding me that What I love is God and God’s people coming together, wherever and however we may do so.

As college chaplain of Emory & Henry University, Sharon Wiley Wright views her work with students as both a calling and a privilege. A 1994 alumna, Wright has spent the past 11 years shaping the spiritual life of the campus through mentorship, teaching, and pastoral care.

Now, in a new office and new setting, that Scott Erickson print hangs proudly. You’ll see it just over my shoulder on Zoom calls, reminding me that What I love is God and God’s people coming together, wherever and however we may do so.