One of the things that caught my attention upon first arriving in Ipswich was the Question Mark Sculpture outside the waterfront campus building of the University of Suffolk. It seemed to symbolise the power of curiosity, the spirit of inquiry, and the search for understanding. Questions, after all, are the best way to uncover answers. They challenge us to think, to learn, and to grow.
This sculpture also brought to mind my experiences with questions during school, college, and university exams. I remember the nervous anticipation of entering the exam hall, uncertain what the questions might be. That sense of the unknown could be intimidating. Yet, imagine the difference if the questions had been out to us beforehand. There would be no surprises, no fear, just a straightforward focus on writing our answers.
In life, we are all taking part in an exam where the questions have already been revealed. These questions are not covered in mystery; they are clearly stated in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25.
“When I was hungry, did you give me food?”
“When I was thirsty, did you give me something to drink?”
“When I was a stranger, did you welcome me?”
“When I was naked, did you clothe me?”
“When I was sick, did you care for me?”
“When I was in prison, did you visit me?”
These questions transcend religious, cultural, or regional boundaries. They are universal, addressed to all humanity across every age and every nation. They challenge us to respond with compassion, empathy, and action.
The sculpture outside the university reminds me that we, too, are invited to engage with these eternal questions. Let us try to answer these questions better. Let us be mindful of the opportunities we have to answer them. When I write this, I remember a quote I saw in a book in my mother tongue, which I translate as: ‘Sin is not merely the wrongs you have done, but the good deeds you failed to do’ that connects to the idea of the sin of omission.
Let us not ignore the question paper of life that has already been handed to us. Instead, let us strive to respond with kindness and care, knowing that each act of love is a step closer to fulfilling the calling we have been given.
Prayer Gracious God, thank You for the questions guiding our lives and revealing them to us so clearly through Your Word. Open our hearts to see the needs around us and to respond with love and compassion. May our answers to Your questions reflect the light of Christ in all we do. Amen.