Lost

There are days when I just wonder what God is doing, and what all the pointers mean. In some areas, they are really clear, and in others... well they are clear as mud and I just have no idea what's going on... I see God working and moving so clearly in situations, and then at other times in the same situation, it seems completely contradictory to what's happened previously! Very very confusing! So will keep praying and see how it all unfolds. Prayer and patience, I guess would be the key, but I am sooo looking forward to seeing God moving and some conclusions and answers- especially when it's so exciting to see God working and his incredible plans!

On the other hand, I have just had a most amazing evening... went to see Cats in Macau- an amazing evening and gift, with some awesome friends. It has changed heaps since the last time I was there nearly 5 years ago! And Cats was awesome! I had never seen it, but knew all the music, and while I was expecting it to be good, I still enjoyed it heaps more than I thought I would! Nice to be so wonderfully surprised like that!

An amazing thought!

It just occurred to me though... I will be judged, I will always be found wanting, no matter how much I have done, or been, have given, or should be doing. I will know again who my friends are.

But in the end it's not their judgment that matters in the end, no matter how much I care! I know what God would have me do, I have heard his still small voice, and I guess I had better get on do what I know I am supposed to be doing, no matter how hard it is.

Hard, so hard, but freeing at the same time...:)

Going uphill

Last week, I strongly encouraged a friend to complete a job well, well, as well as they could under the circumstances, and though I know it was a tricky one, they did brilliantly.

Now faced with pretty much the same job, I am completely daunted. Faced with other people's opinions and values, attitudes, and they think is ok to talk about, I am just not sure. I am trying so hard to do things in the right order, to make sure everything is ticked off and accounted for, but I can't account for other people and what they are going to do and think. It frustrates me that we are so prone to judge others and situations and act accordingly, often without taking the time to properly understand the person or situation, which makes me even more protective of what I say and who I say it to, and I get to the point where I don't know if I am being discreet, or straight out lying for the sake of doing things the right way.

I knew it would be a challenge, but right now, I feel like I am at the bottom of Mount Everest about to climb, and I don't even have a support team, or equipment here yet!

Farewells

Today has been a day of farewells, talking about farewells, preparing for farewells, and well, the good, bad and the ugly of farewells!

I do need to say first of all, that in this particular context, there is no particular situation of today that I am particularly highlighting! They just all seemed to converge!

One phrase came to mind though in a meeting today… that well known saying, "If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were always yours. And if they don't, they never were." -- Kahlil Gibran. I was struck by that again today, in the context of letting go, and being let go. The picture that came to mind is of us needing to be open handed in all we receive, not just of things, but of people who are part of our lives, at work, and as friends. God gives, and God takes away, yet our heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be your name.

In all of it though, I was so encouraged by Isaiah 55 tonight, especially verse 12, and hope it is that way for the people I was talking to today.

You will go out in joy
and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
will clap their hands.

Amy Charmichael

I was catching the bus into the city tonight, and realized I hadn't read any Amy Charmichael in Months!! What was I thinking!

Anyway, I started reading through it backwards, starting from today's date, so share a few gens from 2 dates. I didn't get too far tonight..!

Col3:12 (Way) Array yourselves, then, as God's chosen ones, His consecrated and dearly loved ones, in a heart of sympathy, in kindness, in lowliness, in gentleness, in tireless patience.

The bond that Holds God's children together is love, just love. One unkind deed, one unkind word, one thought even that moves towards unkindness, is fatal to the quality of love we must have if His love is to be in us. It is not a little thing to love like this. Lord, evermore give us this love.


Ephesians 4:2-3 Forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Be earnest to maintain the unity of which the Spirit is the Author, linked together by the chain of God's peace.

Where was I last Sunday..?

Playing Christmas carols on Kazoo's with a group of lovely clowns!

the real MaCoy

I learned a new song the other day, about Jesus being the real thing, called.. The Real Thing, by Mark Nam and Tom Read... it was a slightly well, familiar kinda song, but at the same time, it was also really on the mark in terms of where it seems people are. We were talking about it later on, and realized then, and later again, that while there wasn't too much to it, it was also very true. We only have to look around to see people are looking, and searching for something to give our lives sense and meaning... and in a nut shell, Jesus is the Real Thing!

I was reminded later of some of my friends who I never tire of talking with. I so value their conversations as being real, and while we don't always agree, these guys are some of a few who I really enjoy real conversations with.

Thinking again about Christmas, I was struck again, by how real it was. The events were glorious and holy, but they met the people where they were at. The events used the basic things that were around those people. It was sooo complicated, all this random unconnected events that God used in perfect orchestration to bring everything together all at just the right time, to bring about the birth of Jesus, and the start of the days of God being with us in person. How amazing!

I think that I am still working out how to be real, genuine, to be me, to be God's daughter, and live out each day with those things in mind. Most of the time at the moment, I am not quite sure which is the official "me" or the real "me", and what's the difference anyway. There is so much going on right now, and not too much of it is shareable, but where does it stop... I so want to be open and honest, but and while it happens, there is sooo much that just seems to have to stay inside most of the time (and there are the times when I can't seem to keep a lid on it..). I know I don't get it right, and this week I really haven't as I have tried to walk clearly and specifically in God's presence, and got tied up in other things, and unsureness and uncertainty of the right way to go and act in each situation.... day by day, I guess..!

Preparing for Christmas #3

The other morning I woke up still thinking about Christmas and all the events surrounding it and was struck by something else. We have sooooo many perspectives on how Jesus’ birth! We have hundreds of prophesies telling of his coming throughout the generations preceding his arrival. There is the lead up, Mary, Elizbaeth, Joseph, Angels, Wise men keeping an eye out, two different gospels sharing the story, world events, you name it, but all were playing a part in bringing all the events together, in exactly the right time, place and situation that we can look back. We have a double blessing too, as we read back through the bible telling of the account of Jesus’ birth. While, yes, it was a hugely important event, we can see just how perfectly God out everything in place that would bring glory back to him. I love that the bible spends so much time looking at all the different and amazing details that go to make this such an extraordinary event! What amazing love and care he had then and now, for the people who were there, and since then, that we can look back on the events and celebrate the birth of Jesus, and praise God for his perfect timing. He can do it then, and still does now, and we can see how he does it each of our lives now! What an amazing God we have!

Preparing for Christmas #2

Just went to a wonderful Christmas concert with the most beautiful music!

I love Christmas music, especially the kind that is actually about Jesus (rather than snow, Santa and the like), and we had a feast of it tonight! The words are so simple, the music so perfectly lends itself to praise, the atmosphere so often makes me wonder at the awesome job the Angels had to do that night! So, while I definitely couldn’t choose a favourite, here’s an oldie, but a goodie. Check out these awesome words!:)

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight

For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love
O morning stars together
Proclaim the holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And Peace to men on earth

How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven.
No ear may his His coming,
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him still,
The dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem
Descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin and enter in
Be born to us today
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel

We finished off the evening there with Mulled wine and minced pies which definitely added to the night, not to mention the society magazine with a beautiful double page photo of some of my colleagues representing what we do! They’re awesome, and I am so proud of them!

Preparing for Christmas

You know when you have so much to say that you just can't say any of it? that's about how it is right now... Funny, frustrating, exciting, random, good, strange days that we have!

Anyway, tonight we were talking about Christmas, and were challenged to think of one thing that has really made Christmas special to us.

Now, I have grown up looking forward to Christmas, I always loved it, the end of the school yeah, Christmas concerts, Festival of the nine lessons, Carols, etc. I was thinking back over the memories again, and a few things stuck out to me.

I love the simplicity of Christmas, the celebration of Jesus' birthday, not just of God with us, but God, coming in and dwelling in amongst his people, not in pomp and splendor (though, yes it was splendid!), but it was simple, quiet, in a tiny town, with God's people close by, people quiet in the still of night looking after their sheep and doing what they should be doing. God comes and meets his people where they are at, so much so, that much of the time, they don't even recognize him!

I also love the picture of the Angels, of the whole thing being of joy and praising God, of giving thanks to him and who he is, and celebrating something all people can celebrate- the birth of a precious baby!

We can so easily get sick Christmas, but I tend to think that that's our loss.. it's stolen from us! There is so much to be blessed by in remembering and celebrating this time, so hope in these weeks, we all see something new and fresh in this birthday!

Love, God's way

I was pondering a few things throughout the day, and thinking particular about some of the things I have been re-learning over the last few weeks, and a line from this sonnet by Shakespeare came to mind. No, I don’t read and memorize sonnets, but it was in a movie I remembered. Anyway, I was reminded of the line ‘it is an ever fixed mark’ and was struck by it again in the context of God, and his love for us. There are so many things that are uncertain in this world but not this. It doesn’t change or alter, shrink, or is dependent on variables and conditions. It is never shaken, wanders, betrays, or impedes, but is indeed an ever fixed mark in which we can trust! How awesome!

SONNET 116

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds,

Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

It is the star to every wandering bark,

Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken.

Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Within his bending sickle's compass come:

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,

But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

If this be error and upon me proved,

I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

Faith and Deeds

Last Sunday John was preaching on James 2, and Faith and Deeds.
It's quite something to live by faith, AND deeds at the same time. We can believe certain things, yet not act on them, and vice versa.

We went back to the stories of Abraham and Rahab- and they were in some pretty terrifying positions! I wish I had their poise, grace and sense of peace in far less terrifying situations. I guess that's what comes of hearing, and seeing God at work. You have no choice (well.. you do, but who wants the alternative!) but to go out in action and deeds, in faith, sure of all He has said and his word into all He has promised. And he loves, promises and gives much to each of us!

It's tricky too when at times it seems that faith is accentuated over deeds in terms of importance, or vice versa. The worst situation would be when in words they are both encouraged, but in action one is encouraged over another. It also reminded me too, that God speaks to each of us. I have been re-learning to listen to that still small voice, and while I know I get it wrong so often, or it seems He is silent, or there are moments of absolute beauty and peace in knowing and recognising Him in situations. Can you imagine not though, and not being able to, or being told you aren't able to!?? That would be truly tragic, to have access, but being able to walk through into God's presence in the way that he has made possible through Jesus??

So I guess, it's a step by step, walking in God's presence quietly listening and stepping gently through each day and seeing what new and lovely things God brings.

December 5 2001

ok, so after a revealing week- what do I need to know that I wouldn't
already about getting from here to Hong Kong for ideally 1+
years???????????

Just a little tiny question.........:)

cya, MAria


I have been thinking about how long I have been in Hong Kong, which brought to mind how I came to be here. I went back through some emails, and found that I still had it... the email I sent to a friend the day I woke up knowing so clearly that I was coming here! I had gone to bed the night before wondering why I couldn't hear enough about this place, yet KNOWING there was NO way I could ever come here!!!! Amazing! So, 6 years on here I still am, and look at the amazing things God has done, and the incredible ways God speaks to each of us so clearly! What an awesome God we have!!!

Those mistakes...

John had received alot of comments about those 12 mistakes he had mentioned, so followed on today, including adding the original article so include it here.

John also picked up on two of the mistakes and shared a little on them, one being the comparison between sending out short term people, as opposed to long term people. He says that while both are fine, we, the western church, tends to have the mindset of sending out more short termers, rather than expecting people to be called out long term.

For me, it's something I have been pondering for some time now. What's the difference.. what causes some people to turn 'short term' into long term, and vice versa. What causes people who might have been called out long term, to only stay for a while. I have often wondered how many people God has spoken to about going but 'things' have happened along the way to cause them not to go... bad experiences, and the like. I would sooo love to look more at all those aspects that stop us from going out, and see how we could all support each other better, and encourage each other along the road to where ever God would have each of us.. wherever that would be!!

Manna...

It's funny when God gives us 'food' that we are meant to share... it's for someone specific, or a group of people, or a general 'morsel' that we can share around, because it has spoken to us and blessed us recently..

I have had the situation recently when it seemed that I was given something to pass on. I wanted to pass it on right away, but for whatever reason, I didn't seem to have the right moment or chance, then it was just such a cool thing, I wanted to write it down, make sure I had it right, do it justice.. you name it.

Anyway, a moment came up a couple of days later when I was able to pass it on, and I tried hard to capture all the aspects of what I had, but I know I still missed bits. I don't know what it meant to the person, and it really isn't any of my business in a way, but I hope I got it right for her sake. I guess though, I don't know what was happening with her and looking back would have tried harder to pass it on earlier and not worries about the rest.

It brought to mind the story of the Manna in the desert(Exodus 16). The Israelites were given enough for each day, not extra days worth(because it would go off quickly!), their daily bread. It brought to mind that the Bible is our daily bread, that what God shares with us, and speaks to each of us is to be taken in daily, read and lived out. Some of it is for just us, and others is a feast to be shared around. I am not sure if that explains the gist of it, but I realized that I don't want to hold onto something that isn't meant for me, and have this Good Food spoiled by holding onto it for too long.....

Mistakes to learn from:)

The following list was in the church bulletin this morning, and really stuck home in many ways for me (and made me appreciate again the church I go to!).

John writes that the following list was presented by Dr Ralph D Winter, who shares 12 past mistakes made by Western mission agencies that Asian missiologists and churches should avoid. Some had never occurred to me, but others, such as short/long term people going out... that really struck home, as did the last one on partnering sharing the Gospel alongside social action. They need to go hand in hand, and people are needed to take hold of, and carry the vision to see the long term change and growth.

All of it is well worth thinking through and taking hold of, and we can all help in one or more of these areas, no matter where we are at!:)

- The mistake of starting Bible schools, not universities
- The mistake of only "Salvation in Heaven" not "Kingdom on Earth"
- The mistake of congregations sending missionaries, not using mission agencies
- The mistake of whole congregations in direct involvement, not professional missions.
- The mistake of insisting that devout followers of Jesus call themselves "Christians" and identify with the western Church.
- The mistake of sending only money, not missionaries.
- The mistake of sending only money, not missionaries
- The mistake of sending short-termers,, not long termers
- The mistake of not understanding business in mission and mission in business
- The mistake of healing the sick, not eradicating disease germs
- the mistake of thinking "peace" not "war"
- the mistake of assuming science is a for, not a friend
- the mistake of an evangelism that is not validated and empowered by social transformation.

Thank You!

Thank you is such an amazing word! Saying thanks is an amazing exercise, of looking towards something nice that someone else has done and acknowledging it in some way... Someone left a note for me recently, with a big THANK YOU written on it. Every time I look at it, I get a small shock, that someone took the time to say thank you.


Today is thanksgiving, an American celebration, but one we should all really take part in. Something special happens when people stop, take the time and say thank you, not in passing, but with purpose, direction, and specifically. We took some time to say thanks to God for all he had done for each of us over the last year last night. It was amazing! It seems that once you start, it just multiplies. Once you think of a few, you think of more, and more and more, and one thing generates many more things to give thanks for. Sometimes it is impossible to start, but even then, once you finally do start to think of things to give thanks for, even do they start to multiply!

What an amazing thing to be a part of a thank filled community, and group of people! And to have a God who asks us to stop and give thanks!

Leaving a fragrance

Random events caused me to be thinking about dying the other day. Not what happens after(I know about that one!), but the process of dying. How do we go about the business of dying, of tidying up, and leaving a space behind. Because no matter what, we do leave a space, where we used to be. And while it isn't something the whole world feels, it is felt like those around us.

Now, often we don't have a choice. Things happen, God calls us home, and we go. At other times there is time, illness, something that gives a chance to wrap things up, so to speak.

But whether we have a longer time, or no time at all, we still have the opportunity to leave something behind. Something of God, of a blessing, of sowing into the lives of those around us. I guess, I was left with the question in mind... if I lived in the light of Heaven, and that one day I was going to die, and didn't know when, what would I do now. How would I live now, and how I treat people? How would I invest my life, my time, the gifts that God has given me, the things he has given me for his purposes. How would I be God's light to those around me now.

A few other options came to mind too of how I could live, but they don't seem nearly as fun, enriching, or fragrant, so will see. Anyway, there is hope, and much opportunity to bless, and be that sweet fragrance of God to others!

Responding to God's call...

What makes us run away from what God is calling us to do? When God speaks, doesn't it make sense to answer, to run towards him, and all that t holds, because, obviously God has the absolute best in mind for each one of us!

I have seen people go into the things they know God has for them, kicking and screaming, or flighting, then accepting, then fighting some more. Others have wondered and waited, or walked to see. Some have watched to see how things unfolded and walked gently towards God has held. Others have run full throttle in at the first moment of hearing without stopping and listening all the way, or have gone, sure of what God would have in store and of his purpose in it all, having heard his voice in their lives clearly.

I wonder what our response really should be though. Should it be running full tilt in either direction? Or stopping to listen and then respond, walking faith... or hearing, listening, praying, seeking, watching and stepping out in faith at the right time....

But when we do step out, even that is a testimony to how God is working in us, I would suppose. Do we do it joyfully, or dragging our feet the whole way, or complaining and griping, or peacefully, or in great excitement, no matter what.

And then what if we can't go out as we would like? what then? and what if it just doesn't seem to be working as we think it should...?

As I have continued to think about how we, God's people react to his call, I was reminded of Jonah- who ran, then turned and did what God wanted...but wasn't too impressed at all about it, Then there was David who was sure and calm, and knew his Lord, and went out to face Goliath in God's strength and courage. And Moses, who wasn't sure, and didn't think he had it in him to lead God's people to the promised land, yet look at him go!:)

Yet, in all these examples, I am encouraged to see God working in each of these circumstances and people, times, places and events. And while not everyone may have had the attitude we might consider to be the best, most helpful, right and appropriate, God still worked in and through each person:)

Different tastes....

I have been struck recently by just how different our tastes are. Tastes in food would be a major one! Where one person's loves one thing.. another person might loathe it, or be obsessed with it, or can't go a day without it, or can't stand the smell of it. For some, there are flavours that are their absolute favorite, that are evocative of a certain time, place, or people, that are more than the flavour itself. Or, it's just a flavour and it's great:)!

For others, they might like that same taste, but could take it or leave it. Others again have an entirely different taste that is their absolute favorite (take, for example, Chocolate- it's a fave of many!, or cheese, or something...).

This extends to preferences and choices in general, and how we make them. Some, are defined and clear to different extents, whereas, we can take or leave other things. They don't really fuss us, one way or another.

Then, back to food, you have kids who won't try different foods, saying they don't like it.. but they haven't tasted it, so they don't even know! Taste is a proactive thing... we have to go out of our way, take a step and see what happens...

And then when it comes to being a Christian...for some... they look at it and turn up their nose, but for others.... it's Psalm 38 that says it best: "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." How awesome that in taking that step, we can learn something new! About God, and about ourselves, and in taking that step, see once again, how good our God is!

Dessert Pasta

Huh..? I hear you all wonder???

Well...:) I was given a pasta machine over the weekend, and couldn't wait till next weekend to use it, so, as I was cooking a dessert tonight, I decided to branch out into Dessert pasta! I had never heard of this, but a friend had... and it made sense.. you can make British dumplings, crepes- which are great, savory or sweet. So why not pasta too!

So, ours tonight was stracci (rolled out pasta, cut into random shapes), Fair trade maple syrup, and fresh bananas, and for a first go, it wasn't too bad at all! The pasta was rather well cooked, and the syrup, yes, runny, but will defiantly see what else I can make!

It also brought to mind something else I have been thinking about recently! I love hanging out with my friends over a meal, and that has been decidedly lacking this year! So, was thinking on this sad state, when I was given the pasta maker.... so hopefully, hopefully it will bring about some change! My mum used to make fresh pasta all the time when I was growing up, and yes, it is dead easy, and sooo much fun to make! So am going to have to start having some pasta nights, as well as having people over again in general. I am not sure when, but do like the idea!!

My amazing friends!

I have a particular group of friends who are just great, and I totally adore! How they became my friends totally baffles me, and the original person who introduced me, one by one moved on looooong ago! Anyway, I am sooo sooo grateful for this long standing randomness in my life, for their friendship, and each of their journeys along this path of life. Why am I saying all this now?:) I received a completely lovely email from one of them tonight, and I have been so hopeless in staying in touch, yet they still care, and are so, so special!

It’s moments like those, esp when it’s been my birthday, that I really do stop and wonder at some of the incredibly amazing people who I know, and that they are my friends! Birthdays are such a funny thing, and I may possibly say something about that another time, but for now, I am feeling very, very blessed, and full of gratitude for each of my friends, both near, and far! So, thanks!!

I have an amazing few days, and a wonderful birthday, altogether! So much so that it has been all too much for one day alone! I have been amazed at the touches, thought that has gone into it all, and very glad that we are a ‘body, with many parts’ full of such richness and diversity! And while I have had a great time, even in hassling people who I know don’t give gifts(just for fun:)), I do know that I have been completely lavishly blessed in more ways than I can count, so thanks!

A perfect moment

I was away on holidays last week, and one of the highlights (and it was pretty much all a highlight!) was the first afternoon... sitting on a swinging chair, reading an awesome book, in a beautiful garden, with... a cup of tea! Awesome!

It doesn't often get too much better than that! I don't often have time to spend a good amount of time just sitting outside and reading, but it is one of my favorite things to do. Other factors that add to this can be the food eaten, time of day, if there is company(looking back over the years there have been only a few people who have really shared these times), location...

Anyway, it was a reminder to me of the little things in life and that it doesn't take too much for me to be happy... I don't think:) But that moment (well, couple of hours) was pretty special!

Being Judged

I have been thinking about a particular situation today, and haven't been able to place a finger on where I stand with it, but finally think I realized what it was that bugs me about it.

I don't like being judged, or being presumed upon. I don't like it when people put things together and reach a conclusion about me.... and it's wrong. I don't like being judged on my actions when the actions weren't expected, and may not make sense to the outside world, yet to me, they were my only option.

I also realized that I don't especially like being judged based on how another person acts, or reacts, and how that may or may not reflect on me as a direct, or indirect result. I tend to try and disappear as much as possible then, well... as much as possible anyway. It's not always that easy or simple. It's been a strange thing to be reminded that our actions can have a reaction in some way in another persons life- either positively, or negatively, and it was a unsettling thing to me, to be reminded of what I am capable of too.

I sometimes wonder too how black and white we see things to be. I know at times, I do, especially when looking from the outside into a situation. But I am reminded again and again that we don't know what's really happening, I can't judge what's going on, but have to maintain my course as much as I see is right and Godly, though it's not always easy when you can see yourself or others being indirectly effected.

In it all though, we are, as always being called to love one another, and to unity, that we are one body in Christ. That's the big picture.

Omnipresent yet personal too!:)

Almost exactly a week ago, a fax arrived, and amazingly I saw it, and was completely struck by it, so much so, that instead of doing the sensible, practical logical thing and going to work today (there was a choice- it was a public holiday), 2 friends of mine and I went to a prayer training conference run by Jackie Pullinger with a particular focus on Alpha and the work of the Holy Spirit.

And yup, it was as awesome as we expected and more! It was lovely to be reminded of a whole lot of truths, that God works in and through EACH ONE OF US, not one or two of us, that he gifts each of us, that he speaks clearly, and we can expect to see, hear and watch him at work. There was sooo much to learn and take in, and I am sure I will continue to share about some of the things that happened there (well, I hope so anyway!)

One thing I did want to share now though, is a lesson I have been re-learning recently. I had forgotten this, but it has come back, and continues to come back to me in different ways. It is the reminder that God can and does speak each one of us. He doesn't speak to person A about something to do with person B without their being able to hear it too, and have it confirmed in themselves and their spirits.

I was reminded of this in my life recently, as well as in the word. I read through Ezra last weekend, and how awesome was that! The whole book seemed to be about how God move in his people, large populations of his people to bring them back to His temple to worship him. In Ezra 1, it talks about how God moved the heart of the leader, and his people- so they in turn were moved to go and worship God. Awesome!

This was one of the things that struck me as Jackie shared, that she was clear that if someone speaks a word over us, we will know in our spirits if it is for us, and from the Lord. We can take a word and pray about it, or ponder it, or test it against scripture, or receive it(or give it, if we are the people praying for another) know it is from God and that he loves each of us and speaks to us, yes, each of us. I think we often think that God speaks to 'everyone else' first, but that isn't always the case.

How awesome is our God, that he loves us and entrusts us with his Spirit for his good purpose!

I should add too... it is been something that has brought much peace to many situations recently, knowing that if something is from God, He will speak into all involved in some way- a lovely place to rest in!:) We just need to walk faithfully in what He has given us, and He will sort out the rest! :)

Nice people don't change the world...

Well... that's not exactly accurate..:)

I read a book last week by Lynne Hybels, about women of God. The title of the book being "Nice girls don't change the world". It challenges stereotypes from communities, and refers back to how God created women to be, with a sense of self, uniqueness and identity, with gifts and skills for glorifying God in all that they do.

At the end was something of a prayer that I share with you, changing the gender slightly, because, while the book was aimed at women, the topic is one to be shared.

May we be dangerous women and men.
May we be women and men who acknowledge our power to change, and grow, and be radically alive for God.
May we be healers of wounds and wrighters of wrongs.
May we weep with those who weep and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.
May we cherish children,embrace the elderly and empower the poor.
May we pray deeply and each wisely
May we be strong and gentle leaders.
May we sing songs of joy and talk down fear.
May we never hesitate to let passion push us, conviction compel us, and righteous anger energize us.
May we strike fear into all that is unjust and evil in the world.
May we dismantle abusive systems and silence lies with truth.
May we shine like stars in a darkened generation,
May we overflow with the goodness in the name of God and by the power of Jesus. And in that name, and by that power, may we change the world.

How awesome to see more men and women of God 'dangerous' and united, like that!

Going Home

One of the things I have been praying for in the last few months has been for the healing of a friend with dangerous and aggressive cancer. She is too young for it, too much to live for, but her Father took his precious daughter home today.

She is a brilliant woman, with an incredible family, both immediate and spread out further and what an amazing force they have been throughout these months as they have stood with God no matter what the time or the cost, against the enemy.

I am so glad that death has lost it's sting, that if God is for us nothing can stand, that He can do the impossible, that he will NEVER leave us or forsake us. I am sooo glad for the way he has worked in and through each of them, right till he took her Home to him, and beyond, and look forward to the days ahead when we continue to see his glory.

What a precious, treasured gift these wonderful people have been to me through so many years, and what a bittersweet joy it has been to walk these days with them, even so far away.

Amy Charmichael strikes again:)

I was thinking through a few things this morning, and wondering what on earth the answer to any of them was.... then read the daily reading from Amy Charmichael's 'Eedges of his Ways' so write this out as an encouragement to me, but share it here so it's an encouragement to you too!


There are countless promises given to us for times when things are hard. There is one in the Old Testament which, perhaps, lest we should be tempted to fear that it was spoken only or specially to Joshua, the writer of a New Testament book writes as if spoken to himself and to all who read his writings: "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my Helper." I like that "boldly", don't you? We aren't meant to shiver when faced by temptations, but we may look up to Him who conquered the powers of evil when He 'reigned from the Tree." These powers can never say He did not, for He made a show of them openly. We follow a triumphant Christ, and if upon Him is all our reliance, we need never be defeated. Today, from hour to hour, if we look to Him, he can and He will lead us on in triumph.

And if something has to be done that seems quite impossible, the same certainly holds good. Over and over again, I have seen the Lord do the "impossible" things. I think He delights in the impossible, and He delights to meet the faith of one who looks up to Hom and says, "Lord, Thou knowest I cannot, but I believe Thou canst."

North Shore Wannabe!

I have always known that when in Sydney, I have been a North Shore Wannabe...I go there all the time, many of my friends live there, it's beautiful, a joy to drive through, it's just great!

Tonight, however, I discovered that if indeed I did ever (can you imagine!!!) move back to Sydney, the north Shore, or more specifically, Gordon, is indeed where I would be....! Why, I hear you ask???

My parents gave me a subscription to 'Delicious' Magazine for Christmas last year- the best present! The latest edition arrived in the mail yesterday, and I have only just been able to sit down and read some of it..... to find that my favorite tea shop in the UK is opening up it's first branch in Gordon! I have such fond memories of Wittards during each time I have lived in and been back to the UK, so it was a wonderful surprise to find they are moving around the world. And while we can buy some of the range here in HK, it's nothing compared to a whole shop full of their things..!

Hmmm....wonder what their staff situation is like...:)

Blessed

I came home tonight to find an email waiting for me from a new friend, one full of blessing, encouragement, and gratitude for all the things, great, and small that God has done for him and those around him.

I realized yet again, just how blessed I am... by work I love, wonderful friends and family, the gift of being able to pray for and with them in all they are doing, the gift of a Heavenly Father who knows us well, and loves us dearly, who leads, calls and guides. The list goes on and on!

So, as my friend has shared with me, so I share with you...
Be blessed as you wake up and as you sleep. Be blessed as the sun rises and as it sets. May your days be multiplied to enjoy God's glory.

By the way..

Please don't try to read to much into anything I am saying... much of the randomness is more my marveling at how God works in people's lives, and seeing that outworked in mine!

It humbles and amazes me that God cares so much for each of us in so much detail!

What a precious gift we have in knowing him!

Joining the dots

You know how you can get those drawings where there are a series of dots with numbers beside them. You have to join the dots in sequence and from there the picture emerges...

I was reminded of that tonight in a conversation I had with someone on the way to the airport (I have been to the airport several times recently!:)) He said something to me tonight which confirmed much of which I have been praying about in recent days and weeks. I realized too, that it's easy to jump to conclusions and join the dots too soon, creating a very different picture, which may not have been intended.

So, while I am glad God doesn't show us the whole picture at once, it's great to see something beautiful unfold, yet at the same time, learning to be more patient, and wait to see what God is creating, rather than running ahead and second guessing him.

So once again I say.. how awesome is our God!:)

Be thou my vision...

I have a good friend staying with me at the moment (well, 3, but am talking about one in particular right now:)), who, last time she was here, made us all sing a song to each other- Brother let me be your servant. Even now, when we sing it, it brings her to mind for several of us, and her challenge to each of us to live out the song in our daily lives. It brings tears to our eyes, and challenges us again to live in a way that serves and loves God and others in all we do. So she is back now, and we sang the song yesterday, but it brings me to my other all time favorite song... Be thou my vision....

I love this song, that it is a reminder to continue to keep Jesus at the centre, of our lives, of everything we see and do. I have been reminded recently that God speaks to me too, as well as people around me, and I need to continue to walk in God's ways, to stay in his word, and seek after him in all things... so that's my challenge to myself at the moment, so keep seeking after God, that he is the one I see all things through...and how cool is the combination of this song and the song, 'Brother let me be your servant'..!!

Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee, Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle-shield, sword for my fight,
Be Thou my dignity, Thou my delight.
Thou my soul's shelter, Thou my high tower.
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heav'ns Son!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O ruler of all

A New Day...

Waking up early this morning, these words came to mind, as I stood outside…. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it… I love it, and what awesome words to come to mind of all days!

Today, two dear friends get married here. It is something many of us have been working towards for many months now, many have flown in from all over the world and much has been planned to celebrate.

It has been strange thinking through it all, and the days ahead, that while this is a celebration of their marriage, and has nothing to do with us, those around them, on the other hand it has everything to do with us too, and it will change all kinds of things in the coming days, months and years.

We were talking on the covenant, and the promises that are made last night, of the closing of an old life and the start of a new, which is something I have also been thinking about recently. What a precious picture, of walking into a new day, season, time, the old being gone, and the new begun, the possibilities, the questions, the new adventure.

I am so looking forward to the coming days, the expected and the surprises, of seeing this new life unfold and grow, of that clean slate and fresh start. What wonderful days and possibilities for all… and what wondrous things God has planned…!

This indeed is the day the Lord has made, let us all rejoice in all that it means, the new beginnings, the hope, possibilities, and changes, growth and fruit and be glad in it..

Renouncing the meaningless life...

Something I have read this week which has struck me and I continue to ponder….

‘I will renounce a meaningless life

a life without reason

a life in which man is his own god'

sings Chilean song writer Leonardo Alvarez.

I will walk on through the bitter experiences of love
I will follow the pathways of his cross
and your love will be enough…

Jesus talks about the 'bitter experiences of love'.

Mark 8: 34-38 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."

What do you do when.....

You hear that still small voice speaking...?

Do you act on it straight away, know that it is Who it is? Or do you do the Prudent, Wise thing and wait and pray, because it isn't a small thing you have heard, yet..... what would Jesus do, and what is the right timing, and what is the big picture, and why was it God's way to have it happen this way? Ahhh... to know and understand our Great God...! What a terrifying thing that would be!

So, in the meantime, I am so glad I can wait and trust in him, and am so glad he has the best plan possible:)

Egg shells

You know those days when you walk around on egg shells, terrified that you might possibly offend or hurt, or not sure exactly where we are going or what we should do, or even who we should be....??

They are so frustrating, and really, really not needed, and I think that most of the time that we walk around on egg shells it is actually satan hard at work pulling us down and undermining who God has made us to be and how he has created us! I am still trying to work out if we have an excuse for this kind of behavior, but none come to mind. It only steals and destroys opportunities that we are given, experiences, people, joy, life!!!! We really can be sure and confident of ourselves, of life, of who we are in God, of who he has called us to be. We can step out in assurance that he knows what's happening. We don't need to be brash and outspoken, rude and obnoxious as a result either!

Say NO to eggshells!!!

Deut 3:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Exodus 14:13 Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again.

Hebrews 11:1-2 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.

Hebrews 11:3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

Hebrew 13:6 So we say with confidence,"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"

Hebrews 4:15- 16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Living authentically

I have continued to ponder the topic of what is real and fake, and more in my case... what's Me, and what's 'The official response'. Sometimes the lines blur, and today I started to really wonder which was which, and where one started and the other stopped!

I want to be truthful and authentic, but there are times when there is an appropriate response to a situation, or event. It's so easy spending so much of my time in work mode to fall into the automatic response which terrifies me!

I want to know that I am being Me, where I am being real, and know that it is me, responding from a place where I care deeply, rather than responding as expected, or required. What would God have..... does He want us with our boundaries, warts and all, all there and truthful? He knows us all, created us all, knows our inmost beings and has a perfect plan for his creations. He doesn't want robots, or auto-pilots for his kids, but there are moments when I think that's what's expected.....

There are certainly times when an appropriate response is needed, but there must be a place too, where we can all be real...

More food for thought to ponder....

Flipped out:)

While I love my job, some days, well most days, there is just soooo much of this job, I just don't cope all that well, and I tend to occasionally flip out on certain unsuspecting people. I don't know how helpful it is, or if I just need to vent, or have someone listen and care, but know that once I have had my moment, life goes on and all is well again!

I guess it comes back the the honest vs the fake. What is it to tell the truth, or is it just putting on a mask and pretending all is well. Or can you 'vent' and tell the truth, yet at the same time, maintain that God remains in control, and all is well, all at the same time..?

What is best for me, and what is best for those who 'cop the brunt', or see it from a distance? And what truly reflects God and who he is, to others, and myself??

Or maybe I am just thinking through whats real and whats not and realizing yet again how important it is to have someone who listens, really listens and how much we all need that!

The lie vs the reality

I watched the movie, Mr and Mrs Smith again tonight! It's an awesome movie, and continues to grow on me!

It is such a striking example of relationships, any kind of relationships, and the difference between the real, and the fake.

Often as Christians, we tend to stick to the 'Nice', do the right thing, stick to what's safe and that's what Jane and John do in this movie.... and it's completely fake, their whole relationship is a lie!

Then in the latter half, the truth comes out. They rediscover what brought them together in the beginning, and came to a new richness and depth in their relationship. They listened, they worked together, and while it wasn't always neat and tidy, it was real, rich, and worthy of their time and effort. It reminded me that we are all real, we make mistakes, we forgive, and share, and tell the truth. And in the end, the relationship is all the better,stronger and more trustworthy for it, whatever the relationship!

And isn't it great to know that God sees it all, He sees all the way through us, and there is no lying, shallowness, hiding away. He knows it all, and we can only be completely real and honest with him, and he asks that of us, and no matter what, loves us unconditionally!

So, once again, how awesome is our God who makes things work so well for the good of those who loves him:)

Called, or open door...?

Last week was a funny one, but one aspect that made it especially interesting was to see in a new way, the difference being called to do something, and to be given an opportunity... an open door, a wonderful opportunity.

I know many things that I have been specifically called to do, and ways that I know that I am supposed to serve in, however, I realized that while I have been called clearly to do some things, there are others, wonderful things, opportunities where a door has opened, and I have had the choice to walk through and take part, or not. It has been interesting to see, and to see where sometimes, while in places where the call has been, it has been clear and continued, while in places where a door has opened, there are times when that door has closed too.

It has comforting to see that I am called to obedience, to obey the One who has sent me. I am called to listen and to follow God, however, there have been times recently where I see that I have been given wonderful opportunities, however, they may have come to pass up to a point, or they have been a step to something different that God had in store!

God really does work in amazing ways, and it is truly wonderful to be able to trust that he knows what is coming next, even if it is a total bolt out of the blue for us. I guess this is part of boundaries too in what we can, should, and are called and meant to be doing. Something I am going to have to think about a little more is that difference between what God expects, and what others expect of me and my life and how it all fits together:)

But for now, thank God for his wonderful, mysterious plans and purposes!:)

Are you listening????

Yesterday, someone listened to me, really, really deeply properly listened to me, didn't interrupt, offer advice, make assumptions, judgments, and it was the most amazing refreshing thing!

I was talking about something that is very close to my heart, and isn't something I could share with many people at all, but I came away immensely blessed and refreshed, released from the burden I had been carrying, and with new insight to the situation! It was a funny thing, because it's not as if no one else listens to me, but this particular moment was an amazing reminder of the amazing power that comes from being listened to!

It certainly challenged me again on the importance of listening to people, and the power, life, freedom and wholeness it brings, by being there, and available.

Go left, right, straight, forward....

Today was one of those days where I was confronted, yet again of the sheer impossibility of finding that happy medium between doing everything that seems to fall in your lap, and setting good and wise boundaries!!

Both are such good lessons to learn....there are times when it just has to happen- something needs to be done and it falls to you to get on and do it. There are other times when you can be specific and set boundaries, say no, be specific in how you treat others and expect to be treated. It isn't easy though, on any day of the week, especially when an argument could be made that both ways are the Godly and right way to do things.

Though... there are days when it feels like you are bending yourself into a pretzel to get things done right! I want to treat others as God would have me treat them, I want to serve them and care for them and be His light to others. I want to walk alongside and support others in all they are doing... but at what time is a moment reached where you also find that balance where you are treated the same way you would like to be treated, you are listened to in the say way as you keenly seek to listen to and affirm others?

Oh to find that invisible line and seek to live and walk it daily, for our own sakes and the sakes of those around us!

Tea is….

This weekend, I received the amazing gift of a weekend away! A time to rest, reading, doing nothing… sleeping..! It was absolutely lovely! Yesterday, I found a nice place outside and sat down at about 10, and didn’t get up again till 4:30! What did I do? I read, had time to think, found a book by a favourite author and read nearly the whole thing (I finished it that night!), and drank lots of tea! Absolute bliss!

I went for a walk looking for food, and came upon one of the most interesting looking tea shops I have seen in a really long time, and took a look… and found some of the most lovely tea pots I have seen in a really, really long time! It got me thinking about why I love tea so much though… and I realised that it is isn’t so much the tea itself, though it is a great drink. It’s the stuff surrounding the tea drinking that I love. The process of making the tea, the people who you take the time to drink the tea with, because tea drinking can’t be rushed, it’s where you drink the tea, what you eat with the tea, or the books you read while you drink the tea that make it a truly memorable experience!

Random strangers part 2!

You know that random stranger I met at Starbucks a few weeks ago? She came to my church this morning! Way awesome! It was great to catch up with her and hear how her trip had been!

What makes a house a home?

What's in a home? what makes you feel welcomed and loved, care for and invited in?

That's been the theme of the week in so many ways!

It has come through...
Welcoming new people here, and helping them to settle in
Conversations with hosts and guests entirely separately, yet all in one day!
Seeing different people's homes, and the reactions of people to different places, some that make sense and some that don't (the places, not the people reactions!)

It has struck home yet again, how very important it is to welcome people in, to be hospitable, to encourage, no matter who, what or when, and is something that I would love to do more of!

And yet, coming back the original question.... what makes a house a home?? What, in the physical environment makes one feel welcomed and invited in, as a visitor for a meal, or to make someone else's home, your home for a time. What are we called to do? What are we called to do as Christians, and is there a line that says, that's it, enough, I can stop now?? Sometimes I think we wished there was a line like that, but I don't think there is one.... and therein lies the challenge for us all....

much to ponder!

New years resolutions...

We don't make New Years Resolutions here, rather we look back on the last year, and look towards the new year, writing them on either side of a stone, to take away with us, into the new year, as a Stone of Remembrance.

This gives us something tangible to refer to as go move into the year, that we can be reminded of God's love, care, faithfulness to each of us personally no matter what is going on.

I was thinking about the week ahead, and all the things that will have to be done, need to be done, and that I would like to see. There are new people arriving, people who I have got time with, and people I don't have enough time with.

There just isn't enough time to do all I would like or need to do this week, and I am plain tired, just thinking about it:)

Looking at this stone in my lap though, I can see all the things I was looking forward too, such an amazing year of hope and promise in sooo many different ways! Much has happened since then, and much has happened really differently, doors opened and shut, yet in it all God is great, and has done more amazing things already this year that I could possibly imagine!

So it is with that assurance that I think I can probably trust him with this week and the coming weeks and all they hold, knowing that his plan is always going to be the best:)

Random strangers

I tried to catch my favorite bus home this afternoon, but everyone else was trying to do the same thing, so I missed out:) Anyway... I decided that it would be much more fun to sit and read in the Starbucks across the road till the next bus came, as, I reasoned, it would be a great way to pass some time, and more fun that walking alll the way up to find a different bus home!

While I did get some reading done, the lady sitting next to me eventually stopped me to ask me what I was doing, and what book I was reading! (I was reading and brainstorming a few ideas for something I was thinking about at the same time, so taking copious notes:))

We ended up having a great chat, she is from Copenhagen, and here starting her own children's clothes design, and trinket box business among other things. She was also reading, and waiting before she went to a church service later on that afternoon. What followed was a lovely chat, comparing of notes, work and life here. It will be interesting to see where it all ends up, but we have contact details, so will see what happens! T'was a nice interlude in the day:)

Recent lessons

A couple of weeks ago we did an exercise in a group to each work out what our love languages were. It’s something that has come up over the years, and people have talked about it on and off in varying contexts.

When I had first tried to work it out, I had thought I knew what mine was. You have a choice of 5, Quality time, gifts, acts of service, physical touch, and words of affirmation. Before I did ‘the test’ I had thought mine was acts of service, however it turned out to not be the case at all! It turned out to be quality time, which looking back, makes perfect sense. I love spending time with people and proper time, with them, not rushed time.

One thing that has struck me this time though, has been that, while we can know what most speaks to us, but we can see what speaks to other people too, and notice when they continually go out of their way for others. It might not be your primary, or even secondary love language, but you can learn to see it in them, and greatly appreciate it when they care for you in that way, and in turn, show you care for them. I guess I have just been struck that we can learn to see in others how much they care in their different way. Like speaking a different language. It’s also been interesting to see the things that I notice more than other things and realising that I don’t see nearly as much as I would like to!

It’s been helpful to think it all through once again, and see how we continue to change and grow in so many different ways. I was having dinner with a friend last night, and she was commenting on how, all through the bible, we are constantly called to love others, and we are called to love in so many different ways, and so completely. I guess thinking about the love languages, we can learn something new about ourselves, as well as learning to see new things in the people around us, and how best to ‘speak’ love to them in each new circumstance. Much food for thought:)

Muscle strengthening excercises

I am in a new situation. I don't know how to act, what to feel, how to share. What is the Godly way to act and respond? How do I respond? How do I want to respond? who do I want to be in this situation? I see others reacting to similar situation and marvel now with new understanding.

I do know that I want to learn all God has for this time, I want to be strengthened from within ( keep being reminded of a back bone etc, compared to an exoskeleton for some reason), to know more of myself and inner convictions, to become more like Jesus in all things, no matter how new and strange they are.

In all of it though, I am glad to be 'here' and look forward to the lessons learned and the fruit it bears!

Yes or no, or...

I am often struck by my inability to say no in different situations, of wanting to say yes, be available, all that kinda stuff. Some of these I should, and some, I shouldn't.

The only thing is though, that I can't say yes to everything. I can't say yes to all I want to, or should do, or need to... it's not that I want to become a person who says no to everything, every one, and every request, but I just can't say yes to it all!

How does one choose, and choose wisely, in an age where it is expected people go from busy to busier, and it's that busyness that brings the self worth.. I know that's not where we, or I should get my self worth from?? No answers here, but something to ponder:)

Our brokenness in giving. Giving through meals.

I love meals, and shared meals… and would often choose a shared meal with friends over going out and doing something specific(though they are fun too!). Reading further through Henry Nouwen’s book, Life of the Beloved, I came across this, which really blessed me, because it rings so true! Over a meal everything levels out and you know who and where you are and where the fellow meal-eaters are at.

*******

Our brokenness opened us to a deeper way of sharing our lives and offering each other hope. Just as bread needs to be broken in order to be given, so, too, do out lives.

Isn’t a meal together the most beautiful expression of our desire to be given to each other in our brokenness> The table, the food, the drinks, the words, the stories: are they not the most intimate ways in which we not only express the desire to give our lives to each other, but also to do this in actuality? I very much like the expression “breaking bread together,” because there the breaking and the giving are so clearly one. When we eat together we are vulnerable to one another. Around the table we can’t wear weapons of any sort. Eating from the same bread and drinking from the same cup call us to live in unity and peace. This becomes very visible when there is conflict. Then eating and drinking together can become a truly threatening even, then the meal can become the most dreaded moment of the day. We all know about painful silences during dinner. They contrast starkly with the intimacy of eating and drinking together, and the distance between those sitting around the table can be unbearable.

One the other hand, a really peaceful and joyful meal together belongs to the greatest moments of life.

*******

It reminds me of many meals shared, the good, and the hard, but yes, a really peaceful and joyful meal shared among good friends and family truly becomes a beautiful collection of the greatest moments in life!

Can you imagine...?

Me teaching(!) the kids PE yesterday afternoon???:)
Other random events of the week... Mexican food on the beach, a Greek foodie movie set in Turkey...no set location of work- pick a place, almost any place:)

Alot of time with kids, of all ages, and loads of time spent in the cafe, or buying drinks at the cafe here....

Much fun!

Fortunately, PE turned more into active Theater sport games... but it happened, and I managed to do it, so was pleased:) We all did PE together, and even had fun too!

Painfully beautiful

I have a friend who plays the trumpet in a way that is just painfully beautiful(i.e. so beautiful it almost hurts!), which had started me thinking on the topic of things that are painfully beautiful, so beautiful it almost hurts!

I went to a funeral this evening of a friend of friends, it was tonight, when all the Stephen Ministry team meet together, however a close friend of many here had died suddenly, I didn't know him, but he was young. The music was painfully beautiful, the whole service was painfully beautiful, an incredible dedication to this amazing man of God who served and loved God in all he did.

One verse that was shared that baffles me, and continues to baffle me, in context, and out of context is this one. And yes, while I don't know why it is there I agree with the author's sentiments- I don't understand either!

There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a maiden. Proverbs 30: 18-19

I am glad God's ways and thoughts are so much higher than ours!

Disturb us, O Lord

Disturb us, O Lord when we are too well-pleased with ourselves
when our dreams have come true because we dreamed too little, because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, O Lord when with the abundance of things we possess,
we have lost our thirst for the water of life
when, having fallen in love with time,
we have ceased to dream of eternity
and in our efforts to build a new earth,
we have allowed our vision of Heaven to grow dim.

Stir us, O Lord to dare more boldly, to venture into wider seas
where storms show Thy mastery,
where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars.

In the name of Him who pushed back the horizons of our hopes
and invited the brave to follow.
Amen.

Sir Francis Drake

having seen sooo many answered prayers this weekend(including healing-wow!!:)) I am keen to stay in a place of being aware and praying, for the big and little, but miracles all the same! But for today, for my friends' dad, and another friends sister- bring on the miracle of healing!!:) What an awesome God we have!

Two comments..:)

Oh, that we would all be unsettled more! While I had a really unsettled day....the day after was awesome! Much answered prayer! There is still so much here that we need answers to though, but it will always be a step by step process, and for now, I am very encouraged!

I am also loving finding old friends in blog land- have I said that before??!! One day I will work out how to add them to my blog, but for now, I am so blessed by my amazing friends, near and far, in blog world, or the real world, and am very blessed I can call them my friends!! Thanks for being you!

Being unsettled!

This morning we were praying, and a regular feature in our prayer time is for more people, as we have some pretty major and specific gaps here right now!

A friend here had shared recently that a friend of theirs had heard them speaking about the work... and finally written to this person here... because they just couldn't settle. I was strongly stuck by this picture of a person at home, being unsettled, so unsettled that they finally had to do something about it because they knew that God wanted them elsewhere!

So, nice person that I am, I prayed today that the people that God wanted to be moving to other places around the world, would be unsettled- so unsettled that they would HAVE to go!

What happened though?? I spent the whole day.... being unsettled! However, it was a different kind of unsettled! It was one where I couldn't settle into what I needed to get done today, unless I was continuing to pray for those people I wanted to be unsettled!

So bring it on, if that's what it takes to get people into the places where God has called them, wherever it may be! It can be at home, or here too though:) But bring it on, cos where God calls is THE place to be!

The Man and The Superhero

The third movies in several trilogies (Spiderman, Pirates of the Caribbean, Shrek) has hit Hong Kong in the last month or so, leaving many here struggling to catch up with the first one, or two of them so they are fully up to date with the final instalments (or getting a refresher course!)

I watched the second Spiderman movie the other night, and yes, and now keen to watch the final instalment. I was struck though, in this one, by the comparison between Spiderman, the superhero, and the man within. Or, rather, the man, Peter Parker with the superhero within.

It left me wondering about ideals and expectations, who we want to see, and who we actually end up with as we get to know someone. I don’t think anyone could have imagined that quiet Peter Parker could possibly turn out to be Spiderman, but there we go…. Is the super hero hidden inside movies, or…do we secretly look for and expect the superhero, or are they in everyone waiting to be uncovered, given the right circumstances (trigger/venom/situation)…

I think there is probably a superhero in all of us, given the right circumstances, though it may not be what we expect to see(given that there are a lot of different kinds of superheros out there). But given that God created each of us to for a specific plan and purpose, and gave us all we need to do all he asks, I think we are all off to a pretty good startJ

Which then brings us to how we use our gifts…!

Being removed

I was looking at a friends engagement party photos tonight, and it got me thinking...

They are lovely photos, a gathering of people, some friends I know, some I don't, all happily together, surrounded by beautiful gum trees and other familiar bits of Australian landscape, the picnic tables, frisbee, people doing normal picnic things... it was all sooo familiar and known, so much so, I could almost smell the beautiful gum trees!

The thought came to me though- I am so removed from it all! From all that is there, known familiar, loved. I had been thinking about it in a very different context recently, but it struck me afresh tonight 'home', familiar, and normal can mean so many different things!

So for now, I am removed from there, and am well and truly here, and that's just right, and till God says so, this is home, normal and familiar:)

On Patience…:)

God of Patience and endurance,

Steadfast as the steadfast stars

Stands Thy promise, Thine assurance

Unto Thine ambassadors:

“I, thy God, will strengthen thee…

Where I am, there thou shalt be.”

Lord, we would endure; O sift us

Clear of weakness; make us strong.

Lord, we would endure; O lift us

Into joy and conquering song.

Cause us in thy peace to dwell,

Seeing the Invisible.

Let us welcome all life’s weather,

Whatsoever it may be;

And, or singly, or together,

Find our heart’s delight in Thee,

Our redeemer, our Adored,

Lover and beloved Lord.

By Amy Charmichael

A WOW verse:)

I was reading through 1 Chronicles 22 last night, and came across the following verse!

Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God, Begin to build the sanctuary of the LORD God, so that you may bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD and the sacred articles belonging to God into the temple that will be built for the Name of the LORD. (1 Chron 22:19)

I love it! Why, I hear you ask?? Well, now that Jesus has come and fulfilled the covenant, he dwells in each of us, his temple. We are called to action, to devote ourselves to God, and build his temple… how else does that work? I guess all we do is a building of His temple, His kingdom, so in all we do, within, and without, we are building something in some way. All we need to do is start..! I am sure there is more to say, and I haven’t been very clear, but there we go, I wanted to share:)

On being beloved (who? Everyone!)

I am reading a book at the moment by Henri Nouwen, called “Life of the Beloved”

It’s awesome! And touches on some things I have read in a previous book I have read by him, on being beloved. It talks through some of the aspects of why we are Christians, from the stand point of being beloved. We are God’s beloved! Each one of us! Knowing, believing, living this has implications on our lives and the lives of those, known or unknown, how we treat them, and ourselves each day. Have you ever tried living as though you were the beloved of someone?

Here’s a few random bits from his book I thought I would share. Enjoy!:)

Yes, there is that voice, the voice that speaks from above and from within and that whispers softly or declares loudly: “You are my beloved, on you my favour rests.” It certainly is not easy to hear that voice in a world filled with voices that shout: “you are no good, you are ugly; you are worthless; you are despicable, you are nobody- unless you can demonstrate the opposite.”

When I know that I am chose, I know that I have been seen as a special person. Someone has noticed me in my uniqueness and as expressed a desire to know me, to come closer to me, to love me. When I write to you that, as the Beloved, we are God’s chosen ones, I mean that we have been seen by God from all eternity and seen as unique, special, precious beings.

When love chooses, it chooses with a perfect sensitivity for the unique beauty of the chosen one, and it chooses without making anyone else feel excluded.

Wading through Revelation...!

Tonight I am wading through, and trying to understand Revelation 6-19, in order to help 10 children aged 7-14 to get a feel for and understand it a bit more for themselves.... and how long do we have to do all this?? About 40 minutes!:)

I think we are going to take the highlights, the pictures, the words spoken out, the events that take place, and find a way for them to explore it for themselves.

Why is it that nothing much has been written on it for Children though? While a nice big challenge for me and my friend as we teach this together, it's also got some good stuff in it for kids, and everyone!

How awesome is this...!!!
I looked again. I saw a huge crowd, too huge to count. Everyone was there—all nations and tribes, all races and languages. And they were standing, dressed in white robes and waving palm branches, standing before the Throne and the Lamb and heartily singing: Salvation to our God on his Throne!
Salvation to the Lamb!

And this...!
Immediately I saw Four Angels standing at the four corners of earth, standing steady with a firm grip on the four winds so no wind would blow on earth or sea, not even rustle a tree. 2-3 Then I saw another Angel rising from where the sun rose, carrying the seal of the Living God. He thundered to the Four Angels assigned the task of hurting earth and sea, "Don't hurt the earth! Don't hurt the sea! Don't so much as hurt a tree until I've sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads!"


And this...!

Then I heard the sound of massed choirs, the sound of a mighty cataract, the sound of strong thunder:

Hallelujah!
The Master reigns,
our God, the Sovereign-Strong!
Let us celebrate, let us rejoice,
let us give him the glory!
The Marriage of the Lamb has come;
his Wife has made herself ready.
She was given a bridal gown
of bright and shining linen.
The linen is the righteousness of the saints.

9The Angel said to me, "Write this: 'Blessed are those invited to the Wedding Supper of the Lamb.'" He added, "These are the true words of God!"

So yet again I sit in wonder at what an amazing God we have, that we can call him Lord, Friend, Master, King...!

Thoughts on Daniel

The sermon yesterday was on Daniel 2, and has been niggling at me ever since!

There is so much in it, and so much I know I probably wasn't listing to, but I thought I would share a couple that have stuck out:)
One was Nebachadnezza's attitude towards the 'wise men': You have to tell me the dream, AND the interpretation! Now that is a great way to be able to know for sure that what they are telling you is coming from God!

And I love that Daniel has a group of people to pray with, that he's got someone watching his back, supporting, encouraging him, and walking with him, who he can also support, encourage and watch their backs!

But in all of it, the dreams, the interpretation, all the circumstances points to a Heavenly Father leading, directing and orchestrating everything, that all involved can say "Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries..." (Dan 2:47)

Oh, to see again and afresh His hand working so clearly and purposefully, daily, and clearly! May we never tire of it!:)

Art, history or Jewelery?

I was out in the city this morning doing a few jobs, and stopped to check out one of the jewelery shops. I realized again, how much I love seeing the new stones and settings, and the amazing beauty in them (well, most anyway!). One thing I loved doing in London was walking through Harrods seeing all the beautiful jewelery, especially the antiques- they are stunning! I love wondering about their story, and the people who have owned throughout the generations. I love the idea of their story and history and don’t really look on them as something I want in particular-more like a wonderful art form using things that God has created.

We don’t have many antique jewelery stores here, so I have to make do with the modern jewelery. I was thinking too about the transition between seeing them in a store, and seeing them, one or any, in my possession and realized again, that for me, I think it’s the process more than the product! I love the idea of having one of those pieces, just one, but I think the idea of having someone who cared enough about me to give me one is much more appealing:) So for now, will enjoy the wonderful art and history that each of these wonderful pieces are!

Interviewed by Zoe:)

I was at my desk today, and Zoe (11yrs) came to sit and chat during lunch. I was going through a pile of papers, so she jumped on my computer and starting asking me lots of random questions. This was the result!:) Isn't she lovely, and what lovely kids we have here!:)

Hi my name is Miwa I am 32 years old I work in HK. I work with a girl named Beth. She is a lovely girl but she is not here right now because she is in England I have blond hair short hair. I am wearing a white tee shirt and a long beautiful purple skirt I have brown sandals on. I am also wearing a nice necklace to match my outfit .And to top all of that I have some silver studs in my ears and did I mention that the earrings match my nice necklace. My middle name is Jean. And my birthday is first of November my favourite colour is yellow. My favourite animal is a dog .I like dogs because they are friendly. I am not allergic to anything (yet). My favourite sport is soccer and Frisbee. My eye colour is green with a little brown. My favourite movie is oh wait I don’t have one. My favourite food is smoked salmon and chocolate. My favourite lipstick colour is pink with a little brown in it. My favourite thing to do is go out with friends. My favourite part (time ) of the day is between 5 and 7 in the evening I like that part of the day because it is very peaceful and it is usually the time wen people come home from work and catch up on the day. My favourite meal of the day is brunch . my favourite thing about brunch is making eggs and eating eggs.

What do we like about Maria ?

*****

You will have to guess, but what Zoe said was lovely:)