A moment

Something strange happened this week. Well, it was a moment, where nothing changed, but…. Something has changed. Perspectives, relationships, definition, something foundational has changed, which has caused everything to be re-aligned. And yet, to all extents and purposes, nothing has changed… yet. But looks like it will. Some things only take a moment.

So, it is with some fear and hope, I look forward to seeing what these changes bring, and I look for something fun, daring and adventurous to do in the meantime. Current thought is a fun tattoo… but will see:)

Love in action...

I have been thinking about the passage in 1 Corinthians 13, well, all year, in different contexts now. It continues to come up in different ways, and different aspects have been highlighted to me as I have journeyed through this year.

More recently, I have been reminded and challenged by the challenge, that without love we are nothing, just a clanging bell. That love is in action, an excercise in restraint, and pro-activity.

Last week, I watched the I Heart movie with a friend, which was so refreshing and eye opening- there was much to think through and review. But as they read through 1 Corinthians 13, the word trust came up again.

Love always trusts. Wow. As part of a whole context, it's easy to slip past it, but that's quite something to feel safe enough to love, but to love and trust, and actively trust people. Now that's a special thing, especially when you don't often get the chance to excercise trust in action, let alone love.

I have been so blessed this week to see it in action this week though, and while it felt like there were times when I didn't excercise that trust to the extent I wanted, there were changes.

It was a special week of love and trust in action and as this week comes to an end, am glad to have learned some good lessons, and very grateful for the love I have seen in action! I continue to have much to learn!!

A day in the country

A few weeks ago, I was able to head out to Bathurst for a day to help some people set up an independant Christian shop. It was such a fun day, spent with some great colleagues, and having fun with an amazing amount of space trying to make products look good enough for people to buy!

The best bit though was the community feel of the space! The space I was looking after happened to be the shop front window (yippeeee!) which meant I was in a position to be the one people spoke to when they walk past, parked in front of, popped out of their shop front, or, because the local paper was at the corner, receive the business card of one of the writers!

It was so fun to talk to people who came by asking what was going on, giving tips and pointers, encouragement (you're in a great location), or hmm... it's a quiet street...! One was really pleased and committed to praying for the shop, and people working there, while another was going to tell everyone at church all about it!

In all, it was a lovely day of seeing community at work and at its best. Positive, encouraging, helpful, and connected. While I have been part of commnity, I haven't really been part of such a connected community for a long time, so realised again that I missed it.

Hopefully new opportunities will unfold for communities, especially as my footsteps take me to new places, and away from the community I have started to become part of where I am living now, but till then... I guess community it where you make it, and we need it here and I am enjoying supporting and encouraging these amazing people as they pursue the challenge of making this amazing shop a success:)

I have to say though, that every time I think about it, the theme song to Cheers comes to mind..:)

Postive Truth Telling

I had a few conversations recently where I almost asked a question, but then didn't. They weren't bad questions or particularly controversial, but for various reasons I didn't ask.

Anyway, after the last time that happened, I was reminded of spending time with a lovely friend who had popped in for a very short time, and I hadn't seen in about 2 years. Anyway, she said at the beginning that we had to speak truth the whole weekend, and if we had a question, we just had to ask it- which was challenging and so refreshing! Maybe its the level of trust that means we can indeed ask the questions, no matter what, but it also means we have a much deeper friendship for which I am grateful.

So, I think I am going to start challenging myself to ask the questions that come to mind more, to speak the truth in a positive way that is encouraging and faith building, and see what comes of each of these friendships... will people be wierded out, or will they be encouraged, and will it be ok for me to be me, and not hold it in...

People of life

I was doing a slightly different job last week at work,and the first day found me seeking out a friend to ask her something... and it got me thinking about encouraging people! She's such an encouragement to me, and LOVES seeing what God is doing wherever he's at work, and keeps an eye out for encouraging moments, whether from a sermon, something God has shown her, or seeing how God has blessed her, or others. She delights in those moments, and sharing them with others so they are blessed too!

I would love to be more like that- to see those God moments, and be able to share them with others in a joyful way that encourages them in turn! I try, but don't always succeed- often feeling in the way, and not being able to articulate what I want to say well, or just giving up for various reasons. Like all things though, I guess it comes with practice and perseverance, and keeping me eyes open for those moments of being able to bless and encourage others!:)

Our Father's banqueting table

His Banner Over Me

He brought me to His banqueting table (echo).
He brought me to His banqueting table (echo).
And His banner over me is love.

I am my beloved's and He is mine (echo).
I am my beloved's and He is mine (echo).
And His banner over me is love.
Yes His banner over me is love.

And we can feel the love of God in this place.
We believe Your goodness,
We receive Your grace.
We delight ourselves at Your table, O God.
You do all things well, just look at our lives.



I am starting to see this song in a whole new light....

Blessed be your name!

I love the song 'Blessed be your name' and how wonderfully it speaks of the way God gives us gifts, and while God has different purposes in the gifts, life is a gift, as is all that's within it. It's all about perspective!!

I was reminded of that song again today and of how God gives and takes away, and we can choose our attitude within the gift giving, and receiving. I have been so blessed with such alot of things this year, and so aware that there are alot of things within that that I couldn't take for granted. I have so loved the lessons learned, places, people, times spent, and knowing that through it all, it had a time limit, whatever that might be...

Next year will be fun! A few things have happened this week, and one in particular, that means that everything else will too, and while it's sad, it's exciting too! I started praying about a month for a door to open, and who knows:) Maybe it's starting!

Hopefully through it all, no matter what, I will continue to trust God in all things, and events,and as the song goes, my heart will choose to say, blessed be Your name!

Living example?

I have an assignment due next week. I haven't started. I am living the assignment, in many ways, which is good, and very in my face.

I note my relationship style, how my affect comes into play, the anxiety I feel, and my actions that seem to follow so quickly much to my regret, all too often.

I want to get off this boat! I see the light, hope of a new road and adventure, and I want it, I choose that way, that route... but how do I get from here to there, crossing the great divide I have spent my whole life running away from?

This is where the theory becomes action and hopefully with the questions and confusions, so to will the answers.

A wise friend promised in her blog never to delete anything and today I choose the same, to remind myself of where I have been and am going. And with her wise words tonight, in a situation she knows nothing about apart from my tears, will choose once again to trust God in thoughts, words and actions.

Challenges

At college we are learning alot of new things, new stories, new lives, new ways to see the past, present and future. Some things are good, and some not so good. Some are just plain emotional as we look back on painful events and memories.

We are also being challenged to rewrite our stories in different ways, and I am trying hard to take steps to do so in different ways- some easier than others. As I try and navigate some though, they are just plain challenging, and new, with new ways of thinking, reacting to others, myself and situations. Not always so much fun, as I seem to find myself in situations that aren't always friendly or pleasant, and yet it is with the hope of something better than ever!

I sometimes wish we didn't have to go through the pain and frustration of change though that often brings us out to new fresh pasture!!

Calling a spade a spade..

I avoid confrontation. Argument. disagreement. distaste. dischord. anger. I hide away, and do all I can to see the good, positive and what must have been intended.....

Tonight I expressed my disagreement to something I had seen over the weekend. It was a new situation and context, new people, and perspectives, but the results of this event left a bad taste in my mouth, so... this time I rose to the challenge and have expressed that experience to the situation. I have needed a few days, and a few conversations to work out where I really stand on it all, and hopefully have been encouraging even in my disagreement of the event.

But oh, I don't like having to do it!

Should I have done it though?? We are doing a series on Titus at church at the moment, and in a nutshell, false teaching calls for comment.... it is a great series, and I will hopefully share more on it at some stage soon! But for now.....well, will see.

Stories

I have been thinking about stories over the last few days, different stories, in different contexts. We all have our own story, and are part of each others. I heard the story again of the work in Hong Kong, and realised that, like so many others, I am a part of that story- even though I haven’t been there in a while now. At work, there is a story, and I often wonder at whose story it is. Is it ‘mine’- belonging to one person’s, or ours, or our’s but actually ‘mine’- belonging to just one.

I drove home this evening along a route where I pass many friends houses and as I thought of them, it was with thanks, and a wave (not that anyone sees!:)) but it was also with sadness as some have dropped off the radar a little and I wonder how much I should say, or push, or if it is just a phase, and they are just busy. They are a part of my story, and vice versa, and I love that- I think of them with gratitude, and love time spent with them- for the beautiful tapestry that has been crated by their place in my life, and hopefully vice versa..! I was thinking of the ‘story lines’ that feel like they are fading slightly, and sad, but grateful for the time spent too, but came across a friend’s blog tonight, and was blessed to see some of me in it- part of her story, and was wonderfully filled with a renewed sense of how we are part of each others story- we all have our own too, that is beautiful and unique- and realized that as we share ourselves, we don’t give that part away completely so there is less of us- it is more like the loaves and fishes! As we share ourselves, our lives, and our stories, we multiply. We grow, bear fruit, share, and there is enough, and more for everyone, in abundance!

Today, I was reading about narrative therapy- of each of us being able to tell our story- not just the extremely negative bit (as can often happen), but the positive too- and am encouraged by the new stories that are unfolding, with people known and unknown, acquaintances that may become friends, or others met in different ways… and who knows what God has in store for each of us! What an exciting adventure!

Worship Central on Vision to Action

I listened to an awesome talk a couple of weeks ago on the Worship Central podcast- which, yes, is on worship! Anyway, there was an interview with Tricia Neill who overseas everything on the Alpha International team about taking Vision to Action- and in this case, it was the huge vision of taking the Alpha course worldwide. Amazing! I have just listened to it again to take notes as I wanted to share it with work, so thought I would post it here just cos I can!

Key tips

Vision without implementation is a waste of time. Leaders who have the vision- need a person to implement and put the systems in place to make the vision a reality. If you have a big vision- you need people to make it a reality.

Surround yourself with people who compliment your skills. If you see a gap- find somebody who can fill it. It is important to be able to see what you can and can’t do, and find people who can supplement it.

Remember to communicate your vision- depending on the people involved in your vision- more to the people who are closely involved in the vision, and slightly less with the people who are further away. The key people you need to keep involved in the vision and also the key team.

It is more difficult to share vision with email- relationship is the key! Phone, in person, spending time with people. Meet with your team regularly. Ensure they have ownership of the area they are responsible for.

Team- meet up with them individually every 2-3 weeks. They look to the leader for direction, vision, and encouragement.

Clear lines of communication, and people to report to, and receive support.
Regular one on one and team meetings are important. When there are regular meetings in place that cover the various areas- everyone can work in freedom because they know that a time has been set aside to meet together and all get on the same page.

Take people to see the vision lived out in other places (Eg- for HTB church- Sandy Miller would take people to see John Wimber in the US to see what was happening there) and have a taste of what’s going to happen. Bring them to something to see where they could get to. Involve the people in getting from where they are to where they want to be so they have ownership.

Difficult people and situations- open discussion. If you have a relationship and its ongoing it’s easier to be encouraging. Be encouraging! Highlight the things they are good at. Ask them how they think they went, or are going? Regular honest, encouraging feedback that encourages people to grow, diffuses any issues, and dispels any disconnect.

Focus

Someone paid me a lovely compliment this evening- that I am very focussed on God, and people. It was a surprse, and special, but is opposite to something I have been thinking about- lately I have been thinking about how much I feel I get blown about on the wind, by people, stronger voices, other people's priorities, so my life is filled up with... stuff, and I am not always sure, in the end what it is I want in the short term. Long terms, I think I am on the right track...

It's got me thinking again about what's important- of those boundaries that get talked about so often, of filling our lives with what's truly meaningful, or just passing, of storing up treasure in heaven... all big pic vs little pic stuff, I imagine... but whatever way it is- as our lecturer said to us this afternoon, we can each see ourselves as our Heavenly Father sees each of us- as the one Jesus loves!

Do you want to be well?

I have been pondering this question over the last few weeks in the context of college and a course I did recently. I have a sneaking suspicion that it is a much bigger question than I can fathom. It encompasses every choice I make- as I choose the healing and new life, rather than the whole way of doing things, of where I live, go to church, what I do for my birthday this year. It covers how I see myself, my fears, and how I perceive others and life around me- not to mention what I choose to feel, say, and act.

I want so much more of God’s presence in my life and get little tastes of it every so often, that leaves me wanting more, and yet, my life is what it is, here now. It leaves me wondering if it is just a season, and eventually the doors will open up for new things soon, and for now I just need to be faithful with what I have and savor them as a gift given till new doors open… or I just go ahead and take a great leap?!:)

Anyway, I have been reading and thinking through the question “do you want to get well?” that Jesus asked the man at the Pool of Bethesda. It’s an amazing passage on so many levels. But the question of being well- of course anyone would choose that, right? But the old way is known and familiar, safe in its expectations, and roles in society. To be well is an incredible gift, and yet holds so many connotations, expectations, new identity and tasks- no small thing- especially for someone who had been an invalid for 38 years! And yet- do we want to be well? When it has been given to us, how do we walk it out? I find it’s easy when it isn’t challenged, and when I am feeling fine and have the emotional resources to rise up to challenges, but it’s when unexpected turns occur, and things happen that challenge our healing and new found identity, when we are removed from the situation where it first happened… that’s where we have to choose healing, choose life, choose God’s perspective. Jesus says he has come that we might have life, and have it to the full, so once again, I choose life!

Thinking about counseling practice...

I have been hunting for a while now, for a brave person to practice on, for college. Studying counseling is great fun and I am learning so much- and it just keeps going! I am amazed at how much I have learned and then, looking forward- seeing how much more there is yet to learn, and just how much I need to practice!

Anyway, it has been quite a process getting the guts up to find a way to ask friends to be brave enough to agree to be ‘practiced upon’. Even braver have been the people who have eventually been amazing and said that they would indeed! Fortunately (probably!:) for them, I have found someone who has agreed to well, be listened to, which is great. I have been thinking about the other people though who put their hands up though. It’s such a funny thing- going to talk to someone who is trustworthy, outside the context of whatever is happening, and doing what counselors/psychologists do can be enormously helpful, and yet… like going to the Dr, we don’t want to, and choose not to till a situation gets really, really bad! It’s got me thinking about that middle ground, between talking to friends and getting up the courage to actually go and see someone. The funny thing is that the idea is usually harder than the reality, and once we have talked over whatever it is we need to talk over, often we feel better, and have the benefit of clearer perspective. I wonder if it would be easier to find some middle ground, or do we need to raise awareness of the role of a counselor- that they are indeed on your side, and won’t think the worse of you for any reason. They might not be impressed at the way other people are/have treated you, but that’s an entirely different story.

Thinking about that middle ground too… visions of a fast food restaurant come to mind!! But in actual fact, think it might be more akin to eating your fruit and veg every day before you have to make some major life changing decisions because you suddenly find you need to have heart surgery!

For now though, I am so grateful for these amazing people for their courage and bravery, and for the amazing way people stand in the gap for others!

Awesome quote

A friend sent this to me, so thought I would share!

“We often think that service is doing things for others. That sometimes needs to be. But service takes on its true character when we do things with others. This is never an easy road to travel. It is the slow road requiring much patience and care. It gives credit to what another may contribute. It takes on the pace of another. We find it easier to do things for others. We can then be our quick and efficient selves. We can then set the terms and conditions. We can then be available or withdraw when it suits us. Such service may make us feel good, but it frequently disempowers the other person.

Service with others does not have a quick end result in view. It has a process in view. It sees service as a joining with the other. It sees service as a companionship and walking a common road.”

Charles Ringma

Personality Testing

I have been doing a lot of personality tests for one of my assignments over the last few weeks, so thought I would share them with you. Some were helpful, others gave a list of letters and descriptions, but the one that I though was best was the one we had to compare the rest to- the RHETI- an enneagram.

Anyway, here are the websites, so if you feel like it, take a look and see how you go. The first three use the Myers Briggs score outcome, whereas the Enneagram has a different set of descriptors.

First up is the Socionics test, which is a list of questions.

The Keirsey test is one where you have to choose 60-90 words that best describe you, then best describe what you are not. An interesting one.

There is the Myers Briggs test (there is one going around on Face book at the moment)

And then there is the Enneagram! There is a short version on the website, but I have the book of the longer official version. I did try the short one, and it was fairly close. This is the one I preferred as it gives an idea of who you are, who you are at your best, and not so best, when you are angry, and gives some direction of where you can potentially go from there- it’s much more transitional and growth oriented which I found helpful. Let me know what you think:)

Enjoy!

All things new

My head seems to be on overload a fair amount of the time, and right now it's on overload, because one of the random things I am doing this week... is starting a business...!!!

Well, it's a tiny seed of a business, but I have high hopes for it to last and grow (Slowly and steadily!). It's big (to me) and scary (depending on how I am thinking of it), but I have been amazed by what talking to people has done, and how this has all grown out of talking with people, random conversations, or strings of conversations as the case may be....

So, this Saturday will be the first week. I will be selling soaps and stationery from an awesome organisation based in the Philippines that do an incredible job. I love that by stepping out in this way, it will help people in another country, and while I haven't met them yet, I am getting to know each of their stories!

I am so grateful for each of the people who have supported me so far, for the conversations and people along the way, for the awesome ideas, and people's willingness to help. Amazing.

And as with all things, time will tell, God will be there, and I just have to keep excercising my trust in him!

Fully Alive

Fully Alive

I will not die an unlived life.

I will not live in fearof falling or catching fire.

I choose to inhabit my days,

to allow my living to open me,

to make me less afraid,

more accessible,

to loosen my heartuntil it becomes a wing,

a torch, a promise.

I choose to risk my significance;

to live so that which came to me as seed

goes to the next as blossom

and that which came to me as blossom,

goes on as fruit.

- Dawna Markova


One of my lecturers shared this with the class this week, and it was so evocative of many things I have been thinking through this year. The picture of a bird soaring on the wind has been one that continues to come back to me, and this poem reminded me of that, and much more. Enjoy!

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!