Melbourne

I went to Melbourne for work last weekend. It was awesome, but completely exhausting, and different to the time there that I had expected. Apart from catching up with a good friend from HK, we really did see the hotel room, the convention centre, and the walk down the river in between!

It was also a lovely time of encouragement, of seeing an eclectic team of people working together- a group who see each other twice a year, as they are all based around the country as reps for the company.

One of the things that most encouraged me, was that yes, we are a mostly peopled by Christians, and, as such, were a company in a mainstream gift show. So, we were representing the company, and as Christians, being ambassadors for God. It was such an encouragement then, to meet other Christians there, and to see people’s reactions as they came onto our stand. Some asked if we were a Christian organization, so we were able to share in different cases, which was absolutely lovely. One pair of women asked, because they have a niece who is 9 and a Christian, so were wondering! In a crazy time away, it was those moments when God broke through in wonderfully life bringing ways which made it all worthwhile.

Isaiah

I have recently started reading Isaiah, and was really stuck by chapter 3 and 4! Chapter 3 starts by describing what sounds like the main building blocks that holds Jerusalem together, from food and water, to leaders, to the average man who does his job, saying he will remove them from their positions and destroy the land, and yet, coming to chapter 4, there is a beautiful picture of love, care, and redemption!! It says…

In that day, the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded amongst the living in Jerusalem. The Lord will wash away the filth of the women of Zion; he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire. Then the Lord will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and a shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain. (Isaiah 4:2-6)

I love that picture, the God has a plan, that he saves, and creates beauty out of what is soiled, washing it clean, and that its’ God that is our hiding place, our refuge who we can turn to, and be protected in the storm and rain.

I have read Isaiah in bits and pieces, but so look forward to reading it again from start to end- like every book of the Bible, there is much treasure within!

Making things happen

Ok, this is something I have been thinking around for quite a while now, not really spending too much time thinking on specifically, but just…. On the edges!

When do we wait for God to open the doors to make things happen… and when do we have to go ahead, get stuck into life and help things along??

Abraham and Sarah, for example. God made a promise to Abram, saying that his descendants would be more than the stars in the sky, yet they took things into their own hands, pre-empting God’s plans.

Ruth was very courageous as she put herself in the way of Boaz, which in turn was blessed.

When given the talents, the servants were given the opportunity to take initiative, and were praised accordingly.
I sometimes wonder if I am trying to pre-empt God’s plans. I see where God has made promises in my life, and they haven’t come to pass yet. Do I get courageous like Ruth did in different circumstances, or wait? Or do I take hold of the gifts and talents God has given me, and use them for his Glory? Often I think I am more than a little like the servant that hid his talent, thus squandering it out of fear. Scary thought, and yet…

So, much more to think on, but am glad God’s plans can be trusted, and that we can trust that God has given us tools to use for a reason, and we can use them wisely, but confidently, trusting God at work within each of us!

Fear

One friend has written today that she did the thing she feared most, and yes, it's still the most feared thing. Another friend has written today, 'do the thing you fear to do and keep on doing it... that is the quickest and surest way ever yet discovered to conquer fear'. This weekend I have been thinking about things I fear, and the things that stop my from doing what I think I should be doing, or would just really enjoy doing (and on a side note- why DID I say yes to the thing I wanted to say no to, and no to the thing I wanted to say yes to? Glad I don't do that that often... and yet I wonder...., but that's an entirely different topic!).

So, in all this thinking and writing about fear... I, like my friends, I imagine, don't want to be stuck fearing whatever it is we fear... so turn once again to God's perspective.....

"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." 1 John 4:18. It's such a great verse, and such a clear reminder- showing up the lies the are within fear.

Tonight at church too, we are going through Genesis, and were hearing about rainbows, and the covenant that rainbows represent- that God won't destroy us, he loves us, and has compassion. He has made promises to us and he won't break them, even though they may not look the way we want them too! Nice too that here there has been lots of rainbows recently!

God is good!

Becoming seperate

I have been thinking lately about people and relationships of their different sorts, whatever they may be, and how we impact each other, whether we think we do, or not. We don't often notice how much we influence each other, in positive or negative ways(and here, I am just talking about positive ways), and life is well, lived. It's when we are removed from them in some way, either by circumstances, changes of locations, or seasons finishing(like when you do a course together or something), that we can notice how much others have meant to you.

When I left Hong Kong, I knew I had been changed by that time there, because of the amazing people, the amount of time I had been there, and the life I had lived there, and coming back, I continue to remember that time, and hold on to the lessons learned. And as I continue to 'be here' I am seeing how people effect other people- especially living with a family with 3 little ones, and seeing the impact, both positive and negative of having someone else living in their family. I have been thinking about one friend, and looking reflecting on the good in it all, and being surprised again by how God uses people to highlight things, or bring about change. In this case it's something I never would have dreamt I might be able to do, and right now it's still not a reality, but it seems to fast becomming somethink I will indeed do... which is super scary, impossible and exciting at the same time!!

And as always, the Bible has something to say accordingly!! So, Proverbs 27: 17 says "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another", so I am left feeling so grateful for the people, past, present, future, whether friends for a reason, season or lifetime, what precious people they are!!

BBC World Challenge

A few years ago, when I was in Hong Kong, my friend told us all about this awesome idea! The BBC runs a competion each year aimed at encouraging and promoting projects that show innovation and enterprise at a grassroots level.

They are always interesting, and from amazing places throughout the world. The 12 finalists were announced this week, and we are each invited to vote for one, so follow the link here, and see what you think!! Many are on environmental issues this year, and really innovative ideas! I am fascinated by seeing countries where caring for the environment isn't an issue (survival is slightly higher in their prioty list!), so seeing these countries find innovative ways to reuse their resources in a way that benefits them AND the environment is pretty amazing!

Enjoy!

Book blog

A good friend has started a blog, posting book reviews! A number of people have been invited to join in, including myself, so feel free to visit some time. I posted on Persuasion, a book I read, as I had heard that a group of friends in HK had read it recently. I love Jane Austen, but hadn't read that before, and really enjoyed it!

When I was asked to blog though, I was a bit stuck because, aside from doing lots of uni work at the time, I was also in various stages of reading 3 different books! Anyway, Persuasion was finished first, and I am now onto another one completely- but will get back to the originals. The one I had origionally planned to blog on, was by one of my favorite authors, Henri Nouwen, a lovely author, Catholic, and Canadian. He has written a book called Clowning in Rome that I have been slowly reading (it's 4 talks in a book), so will hopefully blog on that one soon!

There are quite a few awesome books and people in the world!!!!

Highs and Lows

The last 24 hours has been one of extreme highs and lows... A guy I have been really good friends with proved himself someone I can't be friends with anymore, work was complicated, full of miscommunication, and layered with much that I was happy to try and avoid... and my car is at the mechanics, and about to cost more than the original cost of the car... and that's not getting onto some people, whose health isn't what it should be, or terrible accidents have happened.

I am so glad these days don't happen often, in fact, they are rare days. But they aren't fun when they do. I have so very much to give thanks for....I spent a gorgeous weekend with a good friend of mine, my sister is about to have another gorgeous baby, I live in a place that's beyond amazing, with some of the best people in the world, the most amazing friends, studying subjects that I trust will help for a long time to come... and a living relationship with Jesus who loves me, each one of us more than we can possibly imagine!

Colossians 3: 16-17

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

So, after a tough, tough day, it's great to look back, and look ahead with gratitude, and hope for the future:)

Don't like, Do like

I don’t like….

Conflict
Destruction
Brokenness
Arguments
Disagreements
Disunity
Stony Silence
Bitterness
Waiting…… to see how things land


I do like…

Love
Peace
Restoration
Forgiveness
Redemption
Wholeness
Contentment
Conversation
Unity
New Life
Growth
Connection
Community
Beauty

The list of likes keeps growing...

A beautiful short story!

Some gorgeous friends of mine have just finished a year at a Bible College in the States, and one had mentioned a writing competition he was going to take part in. I was looking for some encouragement, and reminded of the website of the Church, so went to see if anything new was there, and there is!!!!

So, while it's not my friends story, it is incredibly beautiful, so here I share it with you!

Enjoy!

Forgiveness

Without forgiveness we can never be free to try again. Without forgiveness we can never love another person for what that person is, and loving a person for what that person is and how for what we want that person to be is the only kind of love which allows us to live freely without the demands and expectations which cripple and isolate us. Forgiveness and love and inseparable. We cannot have one without the other. We cannot live in relationships with others unless we can forgive others and forgive ourselves.

Dorothy Rowe

I read this as I was researching this assignment, and was stuck by the clarity of it, and the importance of forgiveness, once again.... She's not a Christian by the looks of it, but wow!

Irrational beliefs

I was given some hand outs this week, as per usua, at college. One though, was a list of 10 Major Irrational Beliefs, as found by A Ellis.

I would post them here, but I don't think they are helpful on their own. Once I read them, and recognised many of them in myself, I was keen to, to see what you all though of these beliefs, but then realised that it might be more helpful to add a counter argument from the Bible. All of them, every one are real, and pervasive in life today, and yet, they are so clearly counter- argued in the Bible!

Anyway, thought I would share. I will probably do the counter arguments much the same as I am writing here... when I am supposed to be writing a very long assignment due next week....!!! Now... where to start....

Beautiful writing recently.

I haven’t been blogging much recently, but I have been doing a lot of reading. Lots! Anyway, I keep coming across gems of writing, so, while they won’t fit into the assignments I am writing, I thought I would share them here. Enjoy!!


Sometimes the suffering
Has no voice, it is silent.
It is a question of survival,
And the poor have no choice.

By Sister Naoko Iyari, MMB
In God’s Image 1990


Counseling is the process of helping clients get “unstuck” and develop a sense of direction. G Egan.


The ethical life arises as the life of liberty in service to God through Chris by the power of the Spirit. The Christian life is also the celebration of life, for as we live in the Spirit we celebrate the life of the triune God. Offering ourselves as a thanksgiving for God’s love and mercy lavished on us in Christ is the pathway to true joy and fullness of life.

This returns us to the human ethical quest where we began. I noted in chapter one that well-being and peace of mind have repeatedly formed the object of philosophers deliberations. The biblical writers declare that within the community of Christ we gain an even greater peace than the great ethical thinkers sought. Our Lord mediated to us peace with God (Rom 5:1), a peace “Which transcends all understanding”(Phil 4:7). This greater peace is not ours because we have sough after it, but because the Holy Spirit showers it upon us as a byproduct of our ethical quest, the quest for God’s kingdom and righteousness. Knowing such peace is the cause for great celebration. And it is in this context of celebration that we discover the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise for “all these things” are truly given to us as well (Mt 6:33).

The Moral Quest, by S Grenz

Soooo mad!!!!

I got mad today. Really really mad.

Really mad.

Two weeks ago I was crushed.

Today I am just plain mad.

What causes someone to mistreat another. What causes someone to think they can hurt and damage children, or people who are vulnerable, who care and want to help?

How dare someone hurt and mistreat another, and think it's ok. Not only does it damage that person, but if they don't deal with it, forgive, and let it go, it will fester in them, and grow, and in turn that hurt will go on to hurt others. Sometimes in self preservations, just because they don't know any different.

I know someone who was hurt years ago, and while I still see the amazingness, and beauty in this person, they have been damaged to the point where they hurt others, often because they are just so scared they don't know what else to do.

But who am I really mad at? Satan. I had the damage he wrecks on people, in relationships and lives. I hate how he sneaks in through depression and other slippery illnesses. I hate how he causes one person to hurt and malign another because of the sneaking voices he puts inside their head.

How do we, as Christians stand up to him? To the one who causes people to do such terrible things to each other..... how do we fight back in love? and completely baffle him? How do we challenge thinking that isn't God's way?

One day... I hope healing and wholeness will come.....

Process vs product in life choices

I was sitting at a market waiting for a friend last Saturday morning, and was a few minutes early, so sat down to read my book. However, a man came down and sat next to me and started up a conversation. Anyway, he had just moved to Sydney from Perth, and was doing contract work. In the course of conversation he told me about his life now as well as telling me about what he would like in life in the future.

It really got me thinking about plans and how we get there, keeping the now, and the future in delicate balance.....and not letting now be all there is, because there is the danger of still being in the now in ten years time, with all the hopes, dreams and plans still somewhere in the future... it made me think about the decisions I have made through my life, and where I am going.....

In the light of this conversation and thinking about this guy, I had another conversation with someone else about personal mission statements! I was struck and challenged by the thought of writing one(I am trying to work out what our work one is right now too!!) and what changes I might potentially have to make as a result. While so many things are good, and right, we can't do everything that looks good. How do we choose, and how do we know what God's plans are for us in life.... interesting random themes and conversations to think through. Hard too, when decisions made potentially have an effect on more than just us. I can't do everything, and be everything to everyone, so how do I choose....??

Sharing testimonies

I have been involved recently with a group, and we have been sharing our testimonies. It has been so encouraging to hear each person's story, of how they became a Christian, of how God has personally, specifically, radically worked in each person's life. I love it!

It was my turn this past Tuesday. I hadn't really thought about what I would share- it's your story of how you became a Christian, right? So it doesn't change, but grows!

So, it was immensely encouraging to me, to share it again, but so much has happened since the last time I thought about, or shared my testimony. It was also really encouraging to me, because someone left a voicemail message on my phone that I didn't get till just after I had shared my testimony, so it was awesome to hear it, in the light of having just been reminded of my what God has done, so amazingly, not only in my life, byt in the lives of so many others!

God is GOOD!

Some joy

I have spent quite a bit of time recently, thinking about Love in its various forms. But this post isn't about love. I have since gone on to reading an awesome book, called The Happy Intercessor, by Beni Johnson- it was brilliant, and while I have just finished it, I would love to read it again! It is about joy, and the power of joy in our lives, so, while I haven't quite left love behind(!), I have been thinking about joy more recently. I came across this poem a couple of nights ago, and how special it is. Enjoy!

LAUGHTER CAME FROM EVERY BRICK


Just these two words He spoke
changed my life,
"Enjoy Me."

What a burden I thought I was to carry -
a crucifix, as did He.

Love once said to me, "I know a song,
would you like to hear it?"

And laughter came from every brick in the street
and from every pore
in the sky.

After a night of prayer, He
changed my life when
He sang,

"Enjoy Me."

- Teresa of Avila

Life is....

A few weeks ago, an article was left in our pigeon hole at college. The topic being “Who’s life is it anyway?” It was referring to Paul’s comment- For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain(Philippians 1:21).

The question posed to each of us though, was what would we say?
“To live is ___ and to die is ____”.
It’s been an interesting question to think through over the last few weeks, through the ups, down’s interesting twists and turns in each day…….! What would I put, what I like to put? What is there now, based on how I live my life now…..???

So, with Mother Theresa’s words…


Life is too precious

Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is bliss, taste it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.


I am not sure if I entirely agree with all of it, but it is a great start, would be interesting to add to the list of what life is…. And if so… what would I add?!?!

Not closing down after all!

In a radical turn of events, the organisation I mentioned in the previous post looks like it won't be closing down after all. The person running it has seen hope, and the possibilities for it to continue to run. People are coming alongside them to support them, and help in whatever way they can to continue to run, there's hope!

Thanks for praying- it's been amazing to see it unfolding, and connections being made at exactly the right time!

Organisation closing down

I wrote this article a few weeks ago... and today we found out that it's likely they will have to shut down!!!!

Please be praying for them, and for amazing miracles as they find the best answers to their situation. It's an awesome group that does amazing work with the people in the area, and it would be really sad if they did shut down!! Not only does it help people who are living in poverty, many have become Christians, and... they make the most beautiful things!

Thanks heaps!!

Easter Greetings

I don’t normally write cards for people at Easter, but this year, I did- well, one anyway. But the verse that came to mind for it was…..James 1:17

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

I love that picture of God, and the amazingness of the gifts he gives! Anyway, it came back around to bite me, rather this evening… I was getting really discouraged by things where some might see the events as great, and others see them as anything but- and being in the middle trying to bridge the gap- then remembered this verse! And, remembered that if it is indeed a good and perfect gift, it does come own from the Father of Heavenly lights- and no, he doesn’t change!!

The other verse that came to mind really clearly, that blessed me immensely on Good Friday, was the phrase… for the joy set before him endured the cross…

From Hebrews 12: 2

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

What an incredibly awesomely, amazingly wonderful God we have!!!

Feet like the deer...

I came across the following verse on Monday morning when I got to work, and it's been such an encouraging, sustaining verse!!

So, Habbakuk 3:19.....

The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

But... check out the whole chapter! Pretty awesome stuff!! Also, super wonderful, yet super challenging too... Revelation 21: 1-8. Oh, for that wonderful water of life!:)

On integrity

I was doing some reading for college this evening, and this was in one of my textbooks, so thought I would share..!

Myself

I have to live with myself, and so
I want to be fit for myself to know,
I want to be able, as days go by
Always to look myself straight in the eye;
I don’t wan to stand, with the setting sun,
And hate myself for the things I have done.

I don’t want to keep on a closet shelf
A lot of secrets about myself,
And fool myself, as I come and go,
Into thinking that nobody else will know
The kind of a man I really am;
I don’t want to dress up myself in a sham.

I want to go out with my head erect,
I want to deserve all men’s respect;
But here in the struggle for fame and pelf
I want to be able to like myself.
I don’t want to look at myself and know
That I’m bluster and bluff and empty show

Can never hide myself from me;
I can see what others may never see;
I know what others may never know.I never can for myself, and so,
Whatever happens, I want to be
Self-respecting and conscience free.

Edgar Guest

5 smooth stones

When I came back to Sydney, I felt like there were five big areas of my life that needed to be sorted out. Four now have been done, but the fifth... I feel like I keep digging down to the bottom of the bag to get it out, and each time I do, it has someone else's name on it, so I need to give it to them.... well, in actual fact, looking back, I feel like I have had this bag far longer than I realised, and I have been pulling out this stone and passing it on to other people all this time.

Fortunately, it's a beautiful stone, so it's a joy to be able to pass it on, but...one day, it would be lovely to get the stone out with my name on it...:)

One Year on tomorrow

It is amazing to me that a year ago, tomorrow, I moved away from Hong Kong. It still seems surreal that it happened, and as I look back over the year, I see God so clearly at work in it all.

It is another moment of being so grateful for what has been, and what is to come. I am so glad that God knows best, even though, most of the time I don't understand... and sooo look forward to what is to come!

Thank you for being part of this journey!

Ethical superstore and inhumane slums...One World

So, I discovered just how behind the times we are in Australia compared to other countries- though, yes, other countries leave an awful lot to be desired, but more about that later.

I was doing some research on fair trade organizations today, and looking at different ranges of products that are available, and came across a website in the UK- the Ethical SUPERSTORE! Can you believe it! And the range of things on the site is amazing!!

I have, however, found a website too for “Green” beer in Australia, where they give back 100% offset, which is apparently the latest thing, and a good thing at that.

On the other hand, I was talking to someone in the Philippines the other day about environmental issues, and their attitudes there. For them, survival is more the key, so things like where you put your rubbish really doesn’t feature in their priority list. Environmental awareness is becoming more popular amongst the wealthier parts though. For the regular person though, it’s normal to drop your rubbish wherever you put it, because they have never been taught any differently, fuel isn’t as refined as in other countries, so the fumes, and smoke are more dense, the struggle to survive is more important, people live on rubbish dumps, slums are common, and food is hard to come by.

As attitudes and awareness continue to change around the world, I look forward to seeing what comes of it all, as we all work out what part we have to play. Hopefully, as in soooooo many areas of need, our eyes will continue to be opened to how we can each help from where we are at.

Article for work...

Well, I have just written an article for work, so thought I would share it with you for your thoughts, should you choose to share! Obviously, I have been more clear as to the names of people and organisations, but aside from it, this is it for now! See what you think... Oh, it's a monthy newsletter that will be emailed to suppliers of fair trade product around Australia.

Dear Friends,

Welcome to a new chapter of ETP! As we have continued to grow and share with you about the organizations that we partner with create the beautiful items that are part of the ETP range, we are thrilled to be able to embark on a new chapter. We have come to see the importance of sharing stories, and so, once a month, will have a special focus on sharing stories with you of the organizations we all work with around the world. Our heart is to bring to you an insight into their daily life, their joys, needs and ways in which connections can be made. Buying any one of the products in the ETP range truly will help those around the world in need in a practical, and life giving way!

So it is with great joy that we bring you our first newsletter. We greatly welcome any news and feedback as we seek to share.

Many of you will be familiar with the beautiful papers and soaps of VH, and organization based in the Philippines that seeks to teach useful skills and give employment to those living in poverty in The Philippines. Mike, has partnered with people in the Philippines, to teach and equip them as they create beautiful soaps and stationery to sell around the world. All the profits and proceeds of the sale of each item go directly back into the local community (Mike and the team that work alongside the Filipinos are all volunteers). In a country where those starting companies will do whatever it takes to get ahead, VH is unique in the community, as they pay each person a fair wage that is salaried- not per item, or hourly. This brings great stability and security to the team and their families as they then know when they will be paid, and can plan ahead.

How are YOU helping VH??

C&S Products have recently designed a new range of soaps, and stationary for VH to produce. As a result, Mike found he needed to employ new people to assist with the production of the products.

One of the employees had a friend whose daughter was sick. She was taken to the hospital, whereupon her parents were told she would likely die, or if she lived, would be in a vegetative state for the rest of her life(this is a fairly common result of malnutrition). They were all told there was nothing to be done but pray. The parents could not pay for the hospital, so VH paid the medical fees. After about 3 weeks, she returned home, which was about the time the order from C&S arrived. Mike and the team saw the need for more employees, so invited the mother to join the team- thus enabling this family, including 7 children to have a regular means of income!

The family has joined in the local community, and the older children come to work to help out and walk home with their mother in the afternoon. As a result the lives of 9 people has been turned around, and they have a wonderful hope for the future- as a result of the love outworked in action.

And the little girl who was going to die? She is now a happy, healthy lively 4 year old nicknamed ‘Beautiful”, who often comes to visit the team of 18 at VH!!

So, thank you for your heart to help those around the world who are in need, you make a difference in each of their lives!

Keep an eye out for the wonderful new ranges of soap and stationary from VH, and we look forward to hearing from you! We encourage you to share the stories you hear with the people who purchase the ETP products, and love to hear your feedback of how we can better assist you!

Bill Johnson

I have had the privelege and joy of finally hearing Bill Johnson speaking in person this weekend. He is somene I have heard of for some years now by close friends around the world, and while I now have his books, and have been listening to his talks online for well over a year now, it was wonderful to see him, and his wife, in person!

So, it will take a while to process what I have seen and heard- not to mention seeing God heal soo many people of physical afflictions (some that had effected people for years!), it will take a while to assimilate it all into my thinking here in Australia. While it was known and familiar, it's all teaching and events that happen 'somewhere else', not here. And what will it mean for me, in my walk as a Christian.. is it for a weekend, or is it as Bill says- it is God given to ALL his people, and we are all equiped to go and do likewise. We were all put to 'work' praying for each other, asking God to speak into, and touch people's lives, and that's exactly what God did, through each of us...

What are some of the things I will take away from this weekend? I stress some..:)

I have recently been reminded of the amazing gifts God has given me, and have met people who I just want to pass it all onto, who have never received anything like these gifts before- things like knowing how much God loves each of us, for starters! We were reminded in one of the talks that we can only pass on what we ahve been given, so it was new encouragement, despite being discouraged, to keep passing on what I have been given as much as I can.

And we were all prayed for at the end, especially for supernatural courage. So I have it. I have no reason not to live it and walk it.... right?? So, will continue to choose supernatural courage each step of each day, and see what God does in it all!

A book of Joy

I have discovered I love anthologies, books that are compilations of short stories, excerpts, paintings, photos, poetry, scripture.

I was at my grandmother's place on the weekend, and borrowed some of her books, including an anthology called "The book of Joy". Yup, the title did indeed catch my attention, so I have been skimming it.

One poem that stood out is the following by Christina Rosetti, called "Waiting"

Somewhere or other there must surely be

The face not seen, the voice not heard,

The heart tht not yet- never yet- ah me!

Made answer to my word:

Somewhere or other, may be near or far;

Past land and sea, clean out of sight:

Beyond the wandering moon, beyond the star

That tracks her night by night:

Somewhere or other, may be far or near;

With just a wall, a hedge, between;

With just the last leaves of the dying year

Fall'n on a turf grown green.

Christina Rossetti

The Prince's Progress, 1866

If you loved me would you please smile..?

Years ago, a popular kids game to play, was 'if you love me, would you please smile', involving one person saying that, and trying to make the other person smile. I was reminded of that game today and thinking about the kind of love this game is talking about.. words came to mind such as maniplative, abusive of love, selfish....love that actually isn't love at all, but coercing the affection of another for your gain.

But love... what is love, and how does one recognise it? There are different kinds of love, depending on the situation, but going back to the Bible seemed like a great idea yet again... and 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 came to mind.....

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

I wish it was easier to live up to this, to do the right thing in every situation, and to be able to do the right thing by yourself and those around you. It would be great if it was easier to live with integrity, and to be able to think ten steps ahead of the game.

One day at a time, I guess, prayerfully:)

Brokenness redeemed

It has been so refreshing to return to college this week- the subjects I am doing are intended to be the first you study (rather than later on for people like me who started in 2nd semester, last year!). They are, therefore, going slightly back to basics for me in many ways, yet so good on that they are reminding my why I am studying it again.

the concept of healing and wholeness has really struck me again- that process of relationship restoration in different contexts. It's a hugely powerful thing- when relationships are whole and complete- within ourselves, with ourselves and God, and with ourselves and others, then things flow smoothly. Life is well. When they aren't though, that's when relationships break down and things fall apart- physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. A mess!

I heard an awesome talk last week, that compared liberty with freedom- that liberty is what we have in the world- it looks like we can do whatever we like, make choices for ourselves. Freedom, on the other hand, comes from living in Right relationship with God, choosing his way ahead of our own wants, and through that, true freedom comes, like we have never known it before.

I love that Luke 10:27 says....He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind' ; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' "

A beautiful picture of wholeness, so simple, yet so challenging!

When I looked those up though, I came across the following... oh, so beautiful! So cos I can, will share:)

Micah 6:8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

May God continue to open our eyes to see what is good, to open our ears hear his singing, to calm our bodies to rest in His love, to motivate us to act in response to Him and His love for each one of us:)

Lent

Since becomming a Christian, I have spent some pretty special Easters in amazing ways, whether in England, or Katoomba, or HK. each have added to the special-ness of the season and as each year has gone by, a new layer has been added to the richness and depth of each year, of remembering what Jesus did for each of us.

This year, will be another big step in the process of returning to Sydney, of starting new traditions, and being more settled here. I don't know where I will be or what I will be doing, but I have got as far as thinking about lent.

I was talking to a friend a few weeks ago, about lent, and what we would give up for that time. I started thinking about the things that would be hardest to give up, and thought of one. Then discarded it quickly, thinking yup, too hard... complicated... anyway, events unfolded that it became clear that it seemed right indeed to give up, so after a really rocky start, and slight interruption, it has indeed been given up. It has been much harder, and easier than I thought, but will have to, as always, take each day as it comes.

These are amazing, humbling days, and I look forward to seeing what Jesus does in, and through them...not to mention digging once again into the Gospels.


And briefly, on other news..:) I passed all my subjects from last year, and some, I even did ok in! Sooo relieved! And met someone today who used to live down the road from me in HK- Tsuen Wan! And yes, am excited to be studying again... who would have thought!:)

Running!

Hmm.. don't you love it that you only realise you have been running, when you are so exhausted you have to stop... turn... and face whatever it is you were running away from... and didn't even know it!!

So... to stop... take a deep breath... turn.... and...take the big huge step you didn't know you had to take, or was running away from till you finally had to stop!

Confused? I would be too:) Will see what happens with the step! Fortunately it's a step of faith, and I know God has brought me safe thus far, and safely, He will lead me home!

Communicating Grace

How does one communicate Grace to those who don't know grace, and the awesome wonder of redeeming love. How does one communicate love- a tiny bit of the overwhelming love God has for each of us, to those who don't know love anything like that kind... and then it turns out that there are different kinds of love, and then what happens! In recent months, I have discovered, once again, the awesomeness of what I have been given, the amazing love God has for each and every one of his people- and that discovery has come from him, through so many avenues.

How does one communicate that to others though?? I have discovered a little of the power of God's love for his people as a result, and know, for the most part, it's the tip of the iceberg. Wow, what an amazing privilege. Truly humbling, challenging, rewarding......God is indeed amazing!!!

I am reminded of a few songs.. but this one comes to mind..

MORE THAN A FRIEND
(Jeremy Riddle)

In the quiet
Of my soul
In the stillness
I hear Your voice call
And I am overwhelmed
And I am lost for words
To describe you
Jesus, You're more than a friend
Jesus, You're more than my heart
Could ever express
Your love and Your grace never fail me
Your merciful touch always heals me
You bring joy to my soul


My heart longs to worship
You my King
I long to bring You a pleasing offering
'Cause I am overwhelmed
And I am lost for words
To describe you

c2002 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing

James

So, at church at the moment, we have just started a new series on the Book of James. I think it must be one of the books I have heard most preached on- it was the last sermon series I heard in HK, and we have just started it now at my Sydney church, in particular.

So, going through my bible, I see many little notes, and much underlined. It happens to be one of my favorite books, and I seem to always get more out of it!

One verse that has stood out to me over the last few weeks is James 1:17

Every good and perfect gift is from above,

coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,

who does not change like shifting shadows.

I love that picture of God's steadfastness, faithfullness and love that is beyond understanding. And look forward to revisiting, and learning more of our awesome God through this book!

Good day at work!

Well, I had an awesome day at work today, after a few days there where I felt like I was on shifting sand, with lots of people coming and going, and jobs and things changing- I am (surprise, surprise) doing 2 different jobs at the moment, and was really feeling like I was falling into the cracks!

Anyway, today, was awesome, and I don't have anyone to tell, so I am telling you! A few things are slowly falling into place, but I was asked to write a monthly newsletter for the fair trade department of work- how awesome is that!! So, the initial idea, is to call each of the suppliers(groups in the Philippines, Sri Lanka, China, Cambodia, Africa) interviewing them, asking what their needs are, and sharing them with people here. So, who knows, I have loved blogging, and it looks like it's been good training, but that's for you to say, not me.

It reminds me of why I started writing in the first place... because I was getting so frustrated because I had things to say, and couldn't say them to anyone! So, to whoever has been reading, thanks! Hope you have enjoyed it and it's been an encouragment! I have been encouraged!

Your opinion counts.....

I was just on a website, and randomly followed the clicks to complete a short online poll- and once clicked, the results were revealed! Amazing..

I was most surpised to find out that in the new year...

47% are going to concentrate on.. Improving my lifestyle - eating better, drinking less, losing weight, taking time for myself

40% are going to concentrate on....Getting more organised - around the home, with finances and creating clearer goals for myself

and 13% are going to concentrate on...Strengthening my relationships with friends, family and at work.

While they are all important, aren't relationships what counts in the long run? Not that the others aren't important by any means... or maybe everyone has it all sorted out, so can concentrate on the first 2..... maybe I just have an aweful lot to work on...!

At what cost..

I have been thinking about today, and all that has happened, mulling over the conversations and events, and good, they have been, rich, full of depth and truth, insightful, helpful. I am missing friends who I used to hang out with so much, but so glad for the friends who are around, and yet, at the same time sad, because many of them are only here for a short time till they head off to do other things.

As I sit here though, I am reminded of the story Jesus told, of the pearl of great price buried in the field. The person who found it, KNEW it's value, and didn't stop to think about the cost, but did whatever it took to have the treasure. It got me thinking... how do I know the real gold from the fools gold that's out there.. how can I recognise the difference and go after it with everything I have, without fear... how do I pursue the Gold, the treasure that Jesus has for mewith asimilarsingle mindedness that the person in the story had...

And yet, while I know I have the absolute best treasure that can possibly be found, in Jesus, God also has treasure for each of us, in other ways as we live wholly and completely for him! Very cool!:) and yet, I yearn to recognise the difference between the Gold, and the Fools Gold, the good from the best....and know how to respond accordingly!

On the brink of another year...

Well, it's not really the 'actual' brink of the year any more, but this post has been on my mind forming slowly since mid-December...:)

This is the time of year, when we celebrate Jesus' birthday, and all the surrounding events. In recent years, it has been customary to 'give' a gift to Jesus, as an acknowledgment of all he did, that it is a birthday to remember, and celebrate even after all these years! And, following that, we can give, something, symbolic, or otherwise, to him as a continued act of love to him.

Mine, for Christmas 2008 came to me as I was waiting for a friend one afternoon.. actually, in retrsopect, it had started one afternoon when I was at Balmoral, watching a seagull floating in the air- I couldn't believe how weightless it was, and how vunerable it was, at the mercy of the wind blowing whichever way it goes...

So, waiting for my friend, knowing that well, things weren't as they seemed, and life, and relationships were changing... I realised just how vulnerable I was feeling, being in that position of waiting for her, and, well, just not knowing! As I was thinking about how vulnerable I was feeling, I realised how much I try to protect myself from those times.

Anyway, my birthday present to Jesus,is my vulnerability, to trust, be open, be receptive to all that God has in store for the year ahead..... and as part of this new year, He has given me an opportunity to be incredibly vulnerable... so I will keep praying hard, and trusting that God will open the doors he wants to open, and close those that should be shut.... and look forward to seeing how this year unfolds! So far, it's looking pretty exciting! Busy, terrifying, and exciting:)

What do you see when you see 'me'?

What do you see when you see 'me'...

Do you see a person, someone full of talent and zest? Do you see my secret longings, and desires, the hidden secrets..

Do you see me as I was created? As God designed and purposed me? Do you see me as one that God loves, who has plans and purposes? Someone who is carefully and lovingly created, placed in exactly the right place at the right time…

Do you see all the things I have done wrong, and have been accused of, my faults and imperfections, or do you see how far I have come, all I have learned, and

Do you see straight through me, a stranger in the street, or someone who gives you a faintly uncomfortable feeling. Do you see me as one who makes you uncomfortable in your comfortable safe zone…. do you see need, and desperation as I seek to survive. Do you see hopelessness and a whole lot of need and responsibility if you look too close.

Do you see danger, if you get involved, and strike up a conversation.. do you see fear and insecurity rubbing off, a contagious social virus, that if you get to close, you will catch it, or can the love, care and friendship offered be more contagious, life giving, and freedom enabling… bringing light, and life….and wholeness

Do you see the potential for hurt, that if you get involved, you will be damaged, that by sharing who you are, you will be stolen, taken for a ride, that something will be lost…

Do you see the old, wrinkled, and arthritic exterior, or the warm, lively young person inside who once was...

Do you see the possibility of life, of hope, an enriched existence, that as you see me, and get to know who I am, you will be enriched, and grow and be a better person as a result?
Do you see me as unique and valuable, special and beautiful, or handsome? Do you see me as someone worth giving time and effort, love, and resources? Do you see me, or do you see the cover, the wrapping, the exterior….

Do you see me as someone worth getting to know, as a friend, colleague, girlfriend or boyfriend, or eye candy, or someone to check out from afar…or someone to mess around with no strings attached…

Do you see the possibilities and potential, all that was, and is and is to come…?

What do you see when you see me……?

Shalom

One of my favorite verses telling of Jesus’ coming is of Isaiah 9:6..

‘For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting father, The Prince of Peace’

I received this card last week, with that verse on the front, and loved what it said about Shalom in the page following, so thought I would share. I love that picture of wholeness, completeness, peace that comes when everything is in that harmony with God.

Enjoy!

The Blessing of “Shalom”

May you be whole in body, soul and spirit as a result of being in harmony with God’s will and purpose for your life. May his peace be your covering, your heart know His fullness, and by His mighty power may you know victory over every enemy. May He bring to pass the deepest desires of your heart. May you know the healing power of His presence, and the restoration of every broken relationship. Through His sufficiency, may every need that you face be met by His limitless resources. May His covenant promises be fulfilled in your life and in your family. May He bring you the greatest measure of contentment, and the deepest satisfaction that your heart can possibly know.

Roy Lessin.

Aussie compliments....

I got caught out today... with Aussie humour! I still have moments where I have cultural glitches- where you just don't know what the 'rules' are, or what's going on...!

Anyway, today, it was Aussie compliments..! I am used to complimenting people straight out, not with a backhanded compliment, or reverse insult...

So why do we find it so hard, as Aussies, to give, or receive compliments, and to be a friend, honestly. Is it a self preservation thing, where we can't give too much away, of ourselves, or who we are..? Wouldn't it be nice if we really could live as Children of God, chosen, and loved,secure in our relationship with God through all Jesus has done....no matter what..!

Carols by the Bridge!

The church I go to now hosts a carol service each year by the Harbour Bridge, so I am joining in this time!

But I wanted to let you know, because Carols by the Harbour bridge, will be fun! And what an awesome location!!:)

Anyway, if you would like to go too, it will be on this Sunday, 21 December, there will be Jazz from 5:30pm, and face painting for the kids young and old:)

And Carols start from 7:30. So, come to Bradfield Park, Kirribilli, and enjoy!

Check out the Church By the Bridge website too, here:)

Newsletter cut'n'pasted!

Well, have FINALLY sent out a newsletter, but thought I would put it here for those who don't get it... so, happy reading! Oh, if you don't get it and would like to, let me know:)

Hi all,

Well, for some time I have known it really was time for a newsletter, yet, where does one start, and how, seriously, does one begin a newsletter sending an update of life, when everything is up in the air, or in transit in some way or another. While things have been steady, they have been steady in their ‘in transit-ness’, so it has been a matter of waiting to see how things fell into place.

So, the following will be a bit of an update, and summary of what life is looking like for me now post-in-transit!

College
Returning to Sydney to study Counselling at Wesley Institute was the reason for my leaving Hong Kong, so the last few months has found me with my head in a lot of books trying to make head and tale of the study of Theology, and Psychology, and how they work together, integrate, relate to each other, and to each of our lives! It has been great to read books from different perspectives, and my eyes have been opened to the needs that are out there, and attitudes towards people who are struggling. Reading of experiences, and the theory of mental illness and the spectrum they encompass has been challenging, and I have been reminded again, and again of just what complicated people we are!

Last year in Hong Kong, with the children, we watch a DVD by Louis Giglio called Indescribable, which compares outer Space, and the Human body, looking at their complexities, and on the other hand, just how much more there is to learn of each, and wow, it is amazing! I have come to a new appreciation of both over the last few months! College has been far more challenging, and in depth as I have struggled to settle back into study again, and come to grips with new understandings and concepts far beyond any I had learned in this area over the last few years. Semester 1 is nearly over though, so I look forward to a break, and diving back into it all in the new year.

Home
Home has been fun, fun, and more fun! I have moved to Cremorne to live with my sister, her husband and 2 children, which has been a delight! While I wake up earlier and earlier, it is a house full of joy, and I love being there! We all moved into a lovely big house together which is in a beautiful part of Sydney, and I am enjoying the thrill of living near one of my favourite beaches (Balmoral!) and being able to walk to the harbour.. amazing!Sunday
It has been lovely to find, and join a place of like minded believers close to home, and it it’s not too hot(as I found out the hard way, last week!!!), I can walk there from home. I have joined a mid week group that has been refreshing and challenging, as well as the Christmas Choir- we will be singing Carols under the Harbour Bridge next Sunday (21 December), so if you are close by, it should be an absolute treat! There will be lots of activities from 5pm, so bring a picnic, and come and enjoy some Christmas cheer, and the beautiful harbour!

Work
Work has, this last semester, been, quite literally on again, off again, but I am now settled into a full time job for the Summer holidays, working for an organisation called Care and Share. One of the reasons why I am there though, is to work with their new fair trade department. I have been so excited about this role, and being able to pass on some of what I have learned while in Hong Kong! My immediate boss has been to meet the people I worked with in HK twice this year now, and LOVES it! It has been a real gift to see how this connection has been made, and how all the details, including a ride, with a good friend who lives close by!

Thank you for your care, and grace as I have walked these days, for some, been unreasonably silent, and sought to work out what life is, and looks like here and now!

MUCH love to you all!

The Visitor

My bro-in-law brought home a film to watch tonight, which turned out to be a really good one! Called 'The Visitor', it's set in America, with an American lecturer, whose speciality is teaching, and writing about Global Economics, in developing Nations. He is suddenly drawn into the life of some illegal immigrants, and given a very real and different perspective of life, and all he is studying.

It was really well done, and great to watch, especially as I am working full time with an organisation that, as part of it's aim, is working with groups around the world to sell fair trade goods in Australia! Very exciting!It is such a privilege to be doing that kind of work even from here, and makes me so proud, once again of the team in HK.

So, if you get a chance, check out the film- oh, and the African drums and music... awesome!!:)

I was reminded on the weekend of some awesome verses, that are such an encouragement to me, so wanted to share! It's so cool to read things in the Bible that just stick out, but it's nicer still to be able to share them with others so that they can enjoy and be blessed by them too!

So, here's what I was blessed by this week!


One will say, I belong ot the LORD'; another will call himself by the name of Jacob: Still another will write on his hand 'The LORD's' andwill take the name Israel.....Isaiah 44:5

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. Jeremiah 31:3

Enjoy:)

No internet at home

Well, I have had a great week in Brisbane with my sister and her 2 kids, visiting our Grandmother.... though, Nat and the kids all had gastro in the end, which made for a more challenging drive, and time there!

Anyways, I am back at work now, with no internet access at home currently, which is making for interesting times, especially as I would love to finally send out a newsletter, and catch up with a few people who I can only 'see' over the internet.... so, if you can help me fix my internet issues, that would be great, otherwise, I will keep plodding along and try to work it out:)

Stay tuned for more... sometime:)

Anything but....

Why is it so hard for us to say what we mean at the moment for which we need to say it, and why do we say one thing, and actually mean something entirely differently?? I keep getting caught out by people who say one things, but their actions, and 'off the cuff' words show that they actually mean something entirely different... and why is it that I am asked one thing, and automatically say 'It's fine', only to find moments, hours, days later that it is ANYTHING but fine.... oh it makes me mad!

We are complicated, confusing beings...!

Brain overload: Semester 1

There is sooo much I have learned this semester at college, and soooo much I want to share, and now that I have learned it..'get it back out again', however, brain overload hit last week, and I am desperately trying to pack yet more in... It has been much harder, and full on than I expected, with far higher expectations, so it's been all I could do to knuckle down and do what I could! I feel like a badly packed suitcase, where you are just trying to pile more stuff on top... hopefully the next semesters will be better..!

Anyway, suffice to say, there is much to share and pass on, and hopefully I will be able to... :) One more assignment to go...!:)

Theming environments!

Something really cool happened today, which was really encouraging to me! Well, lots of fun things have been happening, but this really stuck out!:)

You may have gleaned that I have moved recently, and most of my time has been spent just dealing with the daily necessities of life, like living and college! Anyway, I was at Ikea this morning enjoying the HKness of it all(not HK at all, just lots of good HK memories) and realised that... I have a theme for my new room! It's actually almost finished, but I just didn't realise it was happening! Essentially, it is Spring, and all that it holds. I haven't quite thought it through yet, but have realised that all the things I brought back from HK, and all I had already, and what I have actually kept out, are all based around that theme in general!

It's still a work in progress though, so no photos yet, but I did get a cherry blossom lamp from Ikea today, and a wooden kitchen trolley for my printer, and current text books that are in use, oh, and an awesome little step ladder for a bedside table (which was sooo not Ikea, yet, I couldn't resist! It was old and marked, and 60% off, and will be fab with a coat of paint!).

Still more assignments to do though, so will try and be restrained till after then:)

Random things to miss....

I have found, in the months since I have been in HK, that there are things that I have missed! Now, some of them I expected- missing my friends, the kids, community, missing doing the kind of work we did and knowing it was important and made a difference... I missed the food, and times with friends, the seasons, the weather (yes, even that!).... one thing I kinda questioned when I left... and then dismissed was whether I would miss my stapler or not..! I thought that was a rediculous thing to miss, yet at the same time, I used it often every day for over 5 years in my job, so much so that I had 2 on my desk so others wouldn't have to wait for me to finish, and vice versa... and they have staplers in Aus.... right???

Anyway..... as I have settled back into life and college here, I have indeed missed it...I have hunted for a replacement.... but none were as good...so finally asked for the details of the one I missed so I could hopefully buy a new one of the same brand... to little avail. So, in the end the wonderful TLR came to the rescue and found me one, same colour and everything! So all is well again, I can work again to my hearts content knowing I have a stapler that will help me on my way:)

Wisdom exhibition

I was... procrastinating at some stage during the day, and came across this article about an exhibition featuring people of wisdom. What an awesome idea! Hopefully I am not too late to go and see it, but the next few weeks are rather jam packed!

I think it's great, that in a culture where youth is revered, these older people are honoured and valued for the wisdom they have to share with the younger generations! It gets me to thinking about wisdom in general, not to mention God's wisdom but that's a whole other blog post:)

Blog by Mail

Some months ago, my good friend Liz emailed me and pointed out that Blog by Mail was about to happen. I found about this from one of my favorite food Blogs last year, Anne's Food and had been intrigued, so had been interested in taking part in it sometime, so check it out! While there were a few glitches, the first time around, I am looking forward to next year already! I want to start collecting goodies now!!



So, I sent a package to Twofatals in New York City, but have received a fantastic package from Erin in Michigan, USA! I loved it, all the wonderful goodies (though customs chose to keep the tea- d'oh!) So, Erin, thank you! What a treat!









So, as you hopefully can see, there is a wonderful selection! Books, cards, Hot tamales(yum!), Craisins and Dried bluberries- it was such a thoughtful collection- not to mention the awesome home decorating! Thank you Erin!!!:)

So, for the bloggers out there, who might be interested, yes, I would totally recommend taking part next year:)

Baby steps:)

I have been feeling really discouraged this week about college, and all the assignments. It's been so long since I have studied properly, and the assignments are big and bulky, technical, and very theoretical. Not to mention that I have never been great at studying....! I haven't got any marks back yet, and really don't know if I am on the right track, and know too, that much of what I am studying really depends on different circumstances, and pat answers don't work...!

Anyway, woke up this morning feeling discouraged about it too, and something happened- completely seperate to college, that was just completely ENCOURAGING! So, while I still don't really know why I am here, and doing this course, I know God does, and so will continue to trust him in it all...! But am incredibly grateful for the encouragement!!:)

Christmas present to Jesus

I was reminded again of the Christmas present I gave to Jesus last year (you may, or may not remember, depending on who you are, that where I used to live, Christmas day was a day for Celebrating Jesus’ birthday and giving thanks for him). It was, well painful, yet, incredibly precious, so wasn’t really something that could be shared easily. Anyway, I realised the depth of it this week, and the amazingness of God in so many ways.

So, my gift, was a shattered heart, one that had been torn, and I was returning it to him to put back together, his way. And he has done that, in so many ways, and very differently to the ways I might have expected! There are aspects that have been with me throughout my life that have been revealed, and while I am not there yet, God is at work, and showing me what he’s doing now- I can’t see the future, but, he’s brought me this far… I think I’m in safe hands!:)

I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s notice. Psalm51:17 Msg

Perspectives

Last weekend I was talking to someone, and it really struck me! They were sharing about how they had Chronic fatigue for several years, and how they had tried to fight it in many ways. The turning point for him though, was when he finally stopped, and asked himself, ‘is this as good as it is going to get, and if so, how can I live, as I am, to the fullest?” And surprisingly, or not surprisingly, once he started living from where he was at, he started to get better!

I can’t imagine having it for 5+ years in various degrees, but it was amazing to talk to him. The thing I took away from it all though, was the turnaround in his perspective. I often slowly take myself down a path that ends up seeing things in a way that I really shouldn’t and get caught out, but the awareness and insight when you see things from another person’s perspective, or God's perspective, is amazing!

Some random quotes

I am working on a nice huge assignment this week, and glad I have time in the day at the moment to do so, because this one is a big topic to get my head around, with loads of ins and outs!!



Anyway, the following are a few quotes that really encouraged me, and stood out for various reasons, so since I have enjoyed them, and typed them out, thought I would share them. Funny thing was though, that I didn't realise that two of the quotes were by the same person till I put them here, but thinking back... it makes sense:)



Without forgiveness we can never be free to try again. Without forgiveness we can never love another person for what that person is, and loving a person for what that person is and not for what we want that person to be is the only kind of love which allows us to life freely without the demands and expectations which cripple and isolate us.. Forgiveness and love are inseparable. We cannot have one without the other. We cannot live in relationships with others unless we can forgive others and forgive ourselves. (Dorothy Rowe)



Hatred is simple. Love, real love, is much more complicated. The problem about love is that it is inexorably linked with freedom, Love is spontaneous. We cannot love on demand. We cannot order someone to love us. …..but we all know that the mystery and wonder of love lies in the fact that it cannot be commanded and it can only be freely given. I cannot love you just because I feel I ought to or because you want me to. The fondness we feel for people who give us things, in the hope, perhaps, that we shall love them, we call ‘cupboard love’ and know it is not the real thing. We do not love someone just because that person gives us presents and does things for our benefit.

But love is a risky business. It means getting to know another person. It means loving a person as that person is, and not as we want that person to be. … (Dorothy Rowe)





Maslow characterizes the creative persons as those who objectively view and are comfortable with life, personal relationships, and reality itself. Like Paul, they have learned to ‘be content in whatever situation’- content, but not complacent. They are free to engage in flights of fantasy, to imagine the unimaginable, to see visions and dream dreams, and they are willing to act on what they envision. “I can do all things in him who strengthens me,” Paul exults.

To be creative one must not only be spontaneous in response to a problem, situation, or personal relationship, but also be willing to take risks. Taking risks means possible failure. People who must always be right, who are afraid a mistake will cut them off from acceptance, cannot create. The gospel liberates us for risk-taking precisely because it frees us from the need to be always right, correct, good, or sinless. Willingness to risk failure takes courage, as Luther knew in taunting meticulous Melanchthon, “Sin Bravely!”

Both the person living under the gospel and the creative person are characterized by freely given compassion. Compassion is generated by willingness to stay in touch with our almost automatic response to human suffering. Who can remain unmoved by accounts of kidnapped children, of suffering in a refugee camp? But most of us don’t act on the feeling of compassion. What stops our compassionate action is not insensitivity, but self-defensive fear. “I’d better not get involved”. In liberating us from self-defensiveness, the gospel frees us for compassionate action and for deeper, more genuine entry into human relationships and into the risk-encounter of love itself.

In life under the gospel, we become creative, free to lose ourselves in work, in problem solving, in a sense of mission. Because we no longer overprotect our ego or out reputation, we are able to lose ourselves in our tasks or our play in an unself-conscious fashion. The self-defensive need to count the cost no longer hampers and inhibits. In the gospel we can ‘press on towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. (A Becker)

Heaven

It suddenly occured to me today... that I can't wait to go to Heaven!



Some of that might have something to do with the fact that my general 'in transit-ness' is more accentuated by the fact that I am moving again today, finally! I am so looking forward to this new chapter, of settledness, of being in a home of my own, having a home church, a home group (made initial enquiries yesterday, yay!). College is, of course, sorted, so all that's left is a job, that slots in perfectly with the rest of life in general:).



I was thinking about Heaven today though, and wondering again, how my life would look if I really lived in the light of its fullness, of going there myself, and knowing others who may, or may not be going. Where does my courage, confidence, and sense of belonging fit into the big picture?



As always, Jesus is pretty straightforward, saying, in John 14: 1-3

1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.

2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have

told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go

and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with

me that you also may be where I am.

An awesome statement, room enough for all, and a wonderful place to look forward to!:)

Honesty..

One of my friends, who is most beloved, is a fellow blogger. I love her blogs, and so enjoy reading them! One of the reasons why I love reading them though, is her challenge to herself, to always be truthful. And while she doesn't always blog, and doesn't blog about absolutely everything, she doesn't hide the stuff that's less beautiful, or isn't stuff you would normally say about yourself.



Hmm... so, am I as truthful? Nooooo...:) but I don't think you would want me to be, either:) Even in sharing the less beautiful stuff, she's still beautiful in it all, whereas, all too often, I just feel like a ball of wool that's unravelling as fast as I try to keep myself together.



Oh, am sure God has a plan for all my messiness......and yes, one day I look forward to the days when it becomes clearer... but for now, I will continue to find my way through each day as it comes:) And give thanks for those who are braver than I:)

Home

I got some new CD's yesterday, which is just great! It's wonderful to have some fresh music, something different, and great lyrics to think through!

One of the CD's though, that I got was the soundtrack to Prince Caspian. I saw the movie soon after I returned here, and the last scene.....well, it went straight to the heart! The Pevensie children, thoroughly enjoying life in Narnia, suddenly returning home to war torn London, and that feeling of shock as you suddenly return to somewhere so normal and familiar, yet sooo removed from where you have just been..

The music though, that was played at the time was really special though, and listening to the lyrics, realised how much they resonated with me,but especially in light of heaven. That is my home, no matter where I am here, or what I am doing, or feeling...

So, 'This is Home', by Switchfoot.

I’ve got my memories
Always inside of me
But I can’t go back
Back to how it was
I believe you now
I’ve come too far
No I can’t go back
Back to how it was

Created for a place I’ve never known

Chorus
This is home
Now I’m finally back to where I belong
Where I belong
Yeah, this is home
I’ve been searching for a place of my own
Now I’ve found it
Maybe this is home
This is home

Believe over misery
I’ve seen the enemy
And I won’t go back
Back to how it was
And I got my heart set on what happens next
I got my eyes wide it’s not over yet
We are miracle and we’re not along

Chorus

And now after all my searching
After all my questions
I’m gonna call it home
I’ve got a brand new mindset
I can finally see the sunset
I’m gonna call it home

Chorus

Now I know
Yeah, this is home

I’ve come too far
And I won’t go back
Yeah this is home.

Moving..

It still doesn't seem real, yet, on Tuesday, I will be moving house! Slowly things are filling, and in some parts, taking over, but it's getting there! The house is great, location is fab, people are the best and I am sooo looking forward to being there!

One thing that has brought great joy to us all is the shelf quickly filling with our combined library of cook books... ahh:) cook books! cooking for people, being able to have people over for meals again:) Happy days:) So, when things settle down, more assignments have been handed in, hopefully time will be quickly made to have people over to visit and share this wonderful gift of a new home:)

Hide and Seek...:)

Today has been such a lovely day of possibilities, hard work, and seeing things happening that will have a huge impact on the future! And how exciting is it??!! I still can't believe the things that God is putting into place, and has in store- for me! And while it may not be all that special or whatever in the eyes of the world, to me, it just shows again God's lavish, personal, unique love for each of his children!

I was reminded too, on my way home, of the verse in Jeremiah 29: 12-14...

Particularly...

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

I love the sureness, and steadfastness of this verse, that God will be found when we put him first. I love that he desires relationship with himself, and that we CAN trust in him no matter what!

And yes, there are days when I want to yell out.... God is GOOD, all the time, BIG time, hoo ha!:)

Birds eye view...

I am in the process of moving house/flat again... I counted it up with my sister the other day, the it was only yesterday that I realised I had forgotten to include 3 or so of them, so the current total (not including times when I have lived out of a suitcase!) would be 12 moves...! Amazing!

Anyway, there are things I love about moving, and things I am less keen on, but has a sudden, insanely excited moment when I found some things that had been long forgotten (Including some birthday invitations to my 23rd birthday!), but one was a card I had received while living in London the first time saying...

Spread your wings and fly my friend
For who knows what beauty is to be seen
Who knows to what height you can aspire
With God all things are possible.

How lovely is that! It is something I have often remembered, but really hadn't thought I still had the card!!

Anyway, I am moving and it currently looks like it will happen in the next 3 weeks. I still can't quite beleive it, and there is MUCH that still needs to fall into place, but am excited about it all!:) So, step by step...and many lessons learned along the way...:)

Super-people..

There are times when I really did wish I had super powers! I mean, wouldn’t it be great to have that one thing that made you truly unique and special, like in The Incredibles, the family all had something special… to stretch, dissapear, light fires, run faster than the wind, have super strength… but wouldn’t it be great too, to have regular everyday super powers- to have insight into what’s going on, big picture, strength and stamina to get a large job done, and kept up to date, or prepare extraodinary meals super quickly, or have incredible insight into people’s character and understand the forces at play in different people’s lives..

I think the one I would choose at the moment would be to have the ability to carry others through times of great trouble and adversity, to be the best friend and support possible in whatever way that was needed. But to be perfect in any one thing, let alone everything, isn’t possible in this fallen world, and while we have each been called to do all we can, it doesn’t mean we have to do everything, no matter how much I, or others may want to. I am reminded of the verse… my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness, that it was Jesus who came to seek and save the lost, to bind up the brokenhearted, to bring wholeness to people, not us. Yet in it all, God gives us a part to play, no matter how fallen, broken and sinful we are. We are given second chances, and in God forgiving us wiping away our sins, so we can go out complete, loved and knowing we are part of his great design and plans, that he has good things for us to do…!

With that too, would need to be the power to take the times when I am not treated the way I would like to be treated, and try to treat others, to see past it, and continue to be full of grace...:)

...Another happy place...:)

I have been working on an assignment with a challenging topic over the last week, and couple that with it being my first of this degree, made for an interesting time! The assignment ended up fine, I hope- will see when I get the marks back, and I learned alot too! Tis a great topic!

I had a morning of working on it a few days ago, and I knew I would just be distracted if I stayed at home to work on it, so, to me, the obvious place to go, was a cafe! So, off I went to the local cafe that just buzzes, with great latte's and breakfast menu to get some work done. It got me thinking though- why was that the obvious place to go to work.... and it's something I do quite a bit, and have done more over the years... and realised... cafe's are happy places! They are often full of people talking, fellowshipping in some way, they want, and choose to be together to share that time, it's a place of enjoyment! A happy place!

So, cafe's are a great place to be among people, yet get work done that just plain needs to be done... hmm... now, where are some other happy places...???

One, I realised today, too, was a garden with great garden furniture...:) when I move, that, for me will be a priorty:) fun to know that I will be able to sort some 'non-essential' (in terms of practical' yet, essential in other ways items:) just need to find a place that sells, or gives away cheap garden furniture:)

Wanted

As you know, I have been trying to get my head around a few essays over the last few weeks- one being on Forgiveness!

I watched the movie: Wanted, last night and talk about the opposite of forgiveness in one movie!! Vengeance as far as you can go...!!

Good movie... violent... not no forgiveness throughout it all. And interesting to see where all the vengeance in their movie led them to! Now, how do I say all that in an essay...:)

The four loves, by CS Lewis

To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it careluf round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket- safe, dark, motionless, airless- it will change. It will not be broken; it will become uncreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable.... The only place ourside Heaven where you can be perfectly safe from all the dangers... of love is Hell.

God's beauty

I am reading a book at the moment that spending lots of time talking about God's beauty, and how it's expressed, and how we, as people, can see it. I went to a church service last night, where the passage spoken on, was Ephesians 1:1-10, which is a passage so full of God's beauty, it astounds me!


The book I am reading talks a bit about the beauty in women, which got me thinking about some of the amazingly beautiful women I know. While they are beautiful in different ways on the outside, it's their inner beauty that really makes them shine, and thoroughly enhances their outer beauty! I am rather blessed to know, and be friends (or sister to) with them!


It goes beyond that though too, to God's family and the beauty there! I went to another church this morning, and was struck, yet again by the beauty the radiates out of the family of people who are there!!



So, will keep a continued look out for God's beauty, in people, places and events! He's an awesome God:)

Shattered dreams

I have been home today reading through great stacks of books, doing research for one of my essays... the problem is that I get sidetracked, or skim them, or just don't get a chance to really get stuck into what I need to in order to get the heart of what I am trying to learn, or understand more. There are just too many good things to read and learn:)

Anyway, I have just skimmed through, what looks like an awesome book- one I would like to buy and read... sometime when I have more time! It's by Larry Crabb, and called Shattered Dreams, and looks at how God can take us through really challenging times to bring us to a new place. There are so many ways of looking at this topic of suffering, and many, many examples of how God deals with challenging times in the bible, yet all the time, maintaining that he loves us and loves to bless us, and be in close relationship with us.

He touches on a passege from Jeremiah that I just love. We have been talking about this concept recently at college, of digging our own wells, rather than going to the Well with Living Water that only Jesus can provide.

Jeremiah 2:13 says... 13 "My people have committed two sins:
They have forsaken me,
the spring of living water,
and have dug their own cisterns,
broken cisterns that cannot hold water.

Pretty powerful picture..

And he finishes, by saying... The journey to joy takes us through shattered dreams. That's the lesson of Naomi's story(the Book of Ruth).
A new way to live is available to us, a way that leads to a joy-filled encounter with Christ, to a life arousing community with others, and to a powerful transormation of our interior worlds that makes us more like Jesus.

The well of positivity!

What an awesome idea!!:)


http://www.wellofpositivity.com.au/

A new God- willed heart..:)

Ezekial 36: 24-28 "'For here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to take you out of these countries, gather you from all over, and bring you back to your own land. I'll pour pure water over you and scrub you clean. I'll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I'll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that's God-willed, not self-willed. I'll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. You'll once again live in the land I gave your ancestors. You'll be my people! I'll be your God!

How beautiful is this passage, and the promise it contains..! I love the picture of the water cleansing us, and the picture of a stone heart, being replace with a heart that's God-willed.. not self willed! What a wonerful gift!

This is something that has come up in a few contexts over the last few days, and so many passages have since come to mind, as well as topics, thoughts and ideas...

The main one that has really struck me, is the story of the woman at the well who meets Jesus. We all seek answers, happiness, satisfaction in something, but here, Jesus recognises the thirst this woman has, who is seeking Life in things that ultimately don't satisfy, because they aren't found in a walk/adventure/journey/relationship with Jesus.

Ahh... to drink deeply again of that living water, and not be distracted by other wells of water that just don't satisfy.....

I was pointed to a couple of quotes yesterday, and was really struck by their simplicity, and effect!

'hurt people, hurt people'.... I can't remember who said it, but wow, so true...

'Pain that isn't transformed is transmitted' Richard Rohr

As I think through the topic of forgiveness, and the amazingness of the gift it is to be forgiven (by God and others) and to forgive... am struck again by the wonder of love God has for each of us..!:)

Giving and forgiving

I have been trying to speed read through a book I would much rather read slowly and enjoy… but there we go! It’s called Free of Charge, by Miroslav Volf, and is n Giving and forgiving. It’s got much in it, and while I need to return this copy to the library tomorrow, I am tempted to buy it anyway..!

So, for your reading pleasure, here’s a few tidbits for you to enjoy!

Forgiveness is a special kind of gift. When we give, we seek the good of another, not our own good, or at least, we don’t primarily seek our own good. The same is true of forgiveness. We forgive for another’s sake, though we too may benefit from the result. But there is also an important difference between giving and forgiving. We give when we delight in others or others are in need; by giving, we enhance their joy or make up for their lack. We forgive when others have wronged us; by forgiving, we release them from the burden of their wrongdoing, offence, transgression, debt. And that’s what makes it more difficult to forgive than to give.

What is God’s relationship to forgiveness? It’s similar to God’s relationship go giving in general. Briefly, God is the God who forgives. We forgive because god forgives. We forgive as God forgives. We forgive by echoing God’s forgiveness. So to understand our own forgiving, we need to start with God’s….

Heart cut, cracked, broken....

Finished off tonight at college with the following poem by Michael Leunig (he has quite a way with words!)

When the heart
Is cut or cracked or broken
Do not clutch it
Let the wound lie open

Let the wind
From the good old sea blow in
To bathe the wound with salt
And let it sting

Let a stray dog lick it
Let a bird lean in the hole and sing
A simple song like a tiny bell
And let it ring




Reminds me of my Christmas present to Jesus last year!

Blog by mail??

A friend of mine who lives a few hours north of me, and I, have decided that we are going to take part in an event (for want of a better word!), called Blogging by mail!

We found it at Anne's food blogspot (a place I often go to for cooking inspiration!), and you follow the link to Dispensing Happiness and she will share the instructions on how to go about taking part in it!

Try it out, and see what you think!

Forgiveness and essays..!:)

I am trying hard to get my head around my assignements that have due dates that are approaching rapidly! I am having fun reading up on the topics and deciding what exactly I am going to write about- though am having issues with all the technical jargon that comes with counselling...!

But anyways! The reason I write here tonight, is forgiveness! I am doing an essay on Forgiveness as related to counselling practice and theory.

So, forgiveness! I have been thinking through what happens when we do, or do not forgive someone, or God even, for something that has happened, whatever it is.

My brainstorming has got me this far, but I wondered if you could help and add some more to the lists...? Feel free to go for your life, would love to hear what you have to say!

But for now, my list is as such:

To forgive:

Freedom
Release
Joy
Wholeness
Can move on with life, relationships, direction, and purpose.
Forgiveness brings life, space for the Fruit of the Spirit to grow!

(Short list.... i know there is much more, but these are pretty encompassing)

NOT to forgive:
Guilt
Anger
Rage
Stress
Destructive relationships
Fester
Eats away at the person, and relationships
Manifests itself in other ways, and relationships
Stuck in the situation, feelings, can’t move on
brokenness
Symptom of other things that aren’t right
Impatience
Un-forgiveness needs something to feed on, takes energy, time, is a downward cycle.
Others suffer for it


I was reminded of what the Bible says about this too, so finish of with some encouragement to all

Ephesians 4:30-32 (NIV)
30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Colossians 3
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Thanks:)

How does one say...

How do I say…

- You are loved- in the right way that is heard
- You are missed- that you hear I value your friendship in my life
- I want to help- in a way that is truly helpful
- I am here if you need me- no matter how near or far away that may be
- You are special to me- that I want to learn and understand how best to be a friend to you
- You can trust me- to be here, no matter what
- You are safe- there is nothing to judge and find wanting.
- There is no pressure to be anyone but who you are- that’s the person I care about, who’s friendship I value so highly, the whole person.

Hasten slowly

For some time now, I have been thinking through what it means to hasten slowly, in its various thoughts and concepts! As I have settled back in, in many ways, I have felt like the brakes have been on, that while I have recognised the pressure that's placed on each of us (inadvertantly) to be busy, busy, busy, I haven't specifically felt overwhelmed with the need to live under that expectation.

Tod Boslinger describes it by saying “We should pay attention to the difference between hastening to what is important, and hurrying after what is not. Between hastening to hug, to care, to forgive and to serve and hurrying around frazzled, distracted and spent. Between being busy as an outward reality and being hurried as an inner state of being.”


I put that in my most recent newsletter, and had some most intriguing responses, which have me continuing to think on the topic, and how long I hav ebeen thinking along these lines, even without realising it. One person wrote back saying ' it is God who leads us but the devil who drives us....so we can distinguish who is behind our motivation if we feel driven (the enemy) or led (God). How cool, is that! And challenging too!!

Anyway, something to keep thinking about!:)