By Rev’d Noah Mbano
In my other role as a School Chaplain, I had the pleasure of attending a primary school assembly on Friday, 23 May.
I was particularly moved by the Year 4 students’ presentation.
Their topic?
Invisible forces — things like gravity, which keeps our feet firmly on the ground, and magnets, which draw things together.
We can’t see these forces, of course, but we know they’re real because we see what they do. The students reminded us that if we can understand or harness these forces, we become stronger and smarter.
It was a powerful message, and not just for the classroom.
Inspired by this, I shared it with my church congregation over the weekend. It got me thinking: What if we, too, could become invisible forces in our community?
Not the kind that holds planets in place or pulls metal to magnets, but an invisible force for good.
Do we need to wear a superhero cape or be loud to make a difference?
Absolutely not.
Not all heroes wear capes.
Some wear high-vis vests, some wear aprons or scrubs, and many wear no uniform at all. They’re the everyday people who keep our community running — checking in on elderly neighbours, volunteering quietly, ensuring our homes are warm, feeding the hungry, and offering support when no one else notices.
They seek neither fame nor fortune.
They are the quiet, invisible forces that make our towns and neighbourhoods stronger.
Could we all be like that?
I believe so.
We start by choosing kindness — even when no one is watching. We include those who often go unnoticed. We lend a hand where we can, without being asked.
These acts may seem small — even invisible — but they have real, lasting power. Just like gravity.
Jesus once said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Sometimes that light is loud and bright. But more often, it’s quiet, gentle, and deeply powerful.
As I prepare to mark a year in the wonderful Serpentine Jarrahdale community this July, I’m thankful for the kindness and care I’ve experienced here. This is a safe and loving place — but even the kindest communities can always use more love, more compassion, and more quiet heroes.
So, as you wrap up your week and head into the weekend, I invite you to join me in becoming an invisible force for good.
Be kind. Be helpful. Be present.
And remember: sometimes the most important things in life can’t be seen — only felt.
Have a wonderful week. And may the (good) invisible force be with you.
