Lang Park has a long history that connects sport, faith and comfort. It is host to the State of Origin Rugby League clashes, A league Soccer and many other sporting competitions. It houses the bronze statue of the "Emperor of Lang Park" Queensland State of Origin champion Wally Lewis. It has witnessed many great sporting moments for the city of Brisbane.
But, before it was a sporting venue it was a cemetery, and in 1914 was named Lang Park after John Dunmore Lang (25 August 1799 – 8 August 1878). Lang was one of Australian's first Presbyterian ministers. A fiery Scot, Lang was involved in many political and religious controversies. He was an entrepreneur who not only spread the Word of God throughout New South Wales (which then included Victoria and Queensland) but also heavy involved in commerce. He promoted immigration and investment in Australia. One of his endeavours was selling seed for crops around Brisbane. His work around Brisbane led to the cemetery and subsequent sporting oval being named after him.
Lang was also well known for his fight for those in need: those suffering poverty or social injustice and support for the indigenous community. Lang showed his faith in action, providing the tangible needs and political support needed. But one of Lang's greatest legacies was not a sporting stadium but the way he pointed to Jesus as the Comforter. His Sabbath sermons had clear calls to go to Jesus all who are weary and burdened. This is a message Brisbane needs as it searches for comfort and hope.
Many will ask, "Where is God?" or "Why did He not prevent the loss from these floods?" These are important but difficult questions to wrestle with. The best answer, however, is seen in what Jesus did. Jesus promised comfort for those in need (Matthew 11). He was present and walked beside people in their troubles (Luke 10). While Lang Park may point to John Dunmore Lang, remember that Lang pointed to the real source of comfort, Jesus.