The Body of Christ

There are so many things that I love about what goes into the Body of Christ. It is made up of people, with different needs, wants, expectations. They are all in a different place, have dfferent experiences, different perspectives, gifts, talents and understandings.

How then, do we, as the body of Christ work together to support each other? if one has a problem, they all have a probelm(like our bodies- eg a sore toe, or a broken arm!).

We are all given different understandings, and perspectives. We are all unique and individual, shaped in the likeness of Jesus, yet we aren't the be all and end all, like he is.

How then do we work together and support each other? How then do we say we need help? And if we can't say that, then is there something wrong with the Body of Christ as we know it?

I remember hearing a sermon a few years ago about how the Body of Christ, Christians lived that out as they served each other in practical ways, in serving, supporting, praying for the people in need and it was such a wonderful picture of seeing God, at work, through his people.

Oh, to see more of that, and be more open and available in that way! To see the Body of Christ united, and going in the same direction, seeking God's glory first in all things! What a glorious thing that would be!

Surreal...

There is something quite surreal to be at the airport, everything, well all the major stable things in life have changed, and home is inside my lap top!

But I am so glad for God's leading, guiding, protecting, growing, and that He knows the way ahead, for me, and for those I have just said bye to!

Thanks for walking this journey with me, and being a part of it in some way!

Remembering back....

Still going backwards... remember this post?? This was from 1 1/2 years ago! Amazing!

And amazing too to be reminded of how I came to be there, and all that has happened since then!! God is good indeed!

Going backwards?!:)

Hmm.. I feel like I am going backwards slightly at the moment, but was looking for the songs to "Be thou my vision" for something today, so googled it as that's usually quickest.

Anyway, I cam across this, so thought I would share! It's and awesome recording of the song,with lovely photos (I think) to match, and suite the song on so many levels!

Enjoy:)

A reminder...

I was reminded of this story again today, so thought I would share it, again. It was such a reminder to me that it isn't US that can still the waters, we can't do it, not even close to being possible, and while it is a bit of a stretch for this story, it's still true. We can do what we can in a situation, but in the end, we just need to be still.. and choose to be still and wait... and wait some more. It' s not inactive, it's a choice, and often the hardest thing to do at the time!

Psalm 22

I have been reading through psalms at the moment, and got up to Psalm 22 yesterday, well, the day before, but it wasn't sinking in, so I read it again yesterday, when it really hit home! Why? yesterday was Good Friday!

A bunch of us went for a walk up the mountain behind where we live, and had about an hour of quiet, so I started reading from where I was up to, and boy it was amazing! How awesome to find a Psalm that was so fitting for Easter, yet written so long before the actual events!

God and his amazingly perfect timing, plans and insights!

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me,
so far from the words of my groaning?

2 O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,
by night, and am not silent.

3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;
you are the praise of Israel. ^[a]

4 In you our fathers put their trust;
they trusted and you delivered them.

5 They cried to you and were saved;
in you they trusted and were not disappointed.

6 But I am a worm and not a man,
scorned by men and despised by the people.

7 All who see me mock me;
they hurl insults, shaking their heads:

8 "He trusts in the LORD;
let the LORD rescue him.
Let him deliver him,
since he delights in him."

9 Yet you brought me out of the womb;
you made me trust in you
even at my mother's breast.

10 From birth I was cast upon you;
from my mother's womb you have been my God.

11 Do not be far from me,
for trouble is near
and there is no one to help.

12 Many bulls surround me;
strong bulls of Bashan encircle me.

13 Roaring lions tearing their prey
open their mouths wide against me.

14 I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint.
My heart has turned to wax;
it has melted away within me.

15 My strength is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth;
you lay me in the dust of death.

16 Dogs have surrounded me;
a band of evil men has encircled me,
they have pierced my hands and my feet.

17 I can count all my bones;
people stare and gloat over me.

18 They divide my garments among them
and cast lots for my clothing.

19 But you, O LORD, be not far off;
O my Strength, come quickly to help me.

20 Deliver my life from the sword,
my precious life from the power of the dogs.

21 Rescue me from the mouth of the lions;
save me from the horns of the wild oxen.

22 I will declare your name to my brothers;
in the congregation I will praise you.

23 You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you descendants of Jacob, honor him!
Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!

24 For he has not despised or disdained
the suffering of the afflicted one;
he has not hidden his face from him
but has listened to his cry for help.

25 From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly;
before those who fear you ^[e] will I fulfill my vows.

26 The poor will eat and be satisfied;
they who seek the LORD will praise him—
may your hearts live forever!

27 All the ends of the earth
will remember and turn to the LORD,
and all the families of the nations
will bow down before him,

28 for dominion belongs to the LORD
and he rules over the nations.

29 All the rich of the earth will feast and worship;
all who go down to the dust will kneel before him—
those who cannot keep themselves alive.

30 Posterity will serve him;
future generations will be told about the Lord.

31 They will proclaim his righteousness
to a people yet unborn—
for he has done it.

Words, words, words!

Well, as the saying goes.... Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me! How wrong that is! Isn't it amazing how powerful words are, and how important it is to speak out encouragement, to affirm, and bless. It is in the daily practice of being steady, constant, and clear that we get our point across.

I was struck again the other night by how powerful our words are to each other, they can cause so much blessing, and equally so much damage! There are days when I don't say things quite the way I want, or don't say anything at all(I am more used to listening than speaking), or you misunderstand, or plain mis-interpret! Then there are the times when things just need to be spoken out- I am soooo often reminded that silence is just silence, and alot can be read into silence, depending on someone perspective on a situation.

I am so glad we have the bible (yet again!), and that we can trust and rely on it completely, in all situations!

Splinter....

I was sitting, working away tonight, and scratched the side of my foot.. then realized there was a huge splinter in it! There was a bit of pulling and tugging, and finally, it came out. It was a reasonably big one though, and lodged in very firmly!

I was reminded of the passage about noting a speck in someone's eye without doing anything about the log in my own. There are some people I am likely to challenge in their thinking... and question why they come to think that way, when I have a different opinion(yes, I like a good discussion, and understanding where people are coming from, though there are times...!:)). But I wondered too, how often do I gloss over any 'logs' that might be in my eye.. if I don't see them, they mustn't be there, right? How often do I have wrong attitudes that should change, or act in a way that isn't how I should behave in situations. In many ways I want to say, yes, I am perfect, correct, and everyone else is wrong, but I KNOW that's not the case... but that brings me to realize that I am unfinished business. I like having things sorted, and clear. I DO NOT like unknown situations(as I have been reminded of in so many ways this last week!), and want to get it all sorted.. now!

I am also not very patient when I could be doing something about something that needs dealing with.... ahh the dilemmas of life! We are all works, masterpieces, of God's, in progress!

The seen, and unseen...

Why is it that we find it sooo hard to understand the things that are unseen! If we can't see it, feel it, walk around it, know its tangibleness, then it mustn't be true, or real!

We all know so many things that we can't see, that ARE real, like wind, different kinds of illnesses, God's voice, to name a few. I have been struck by this for some time, but this week, I was reminded of it again in a number of ways.

Why is it that we can understand a broken leg, but not chronic fatigue. Why can we understand cancer, yet not depression. Why can we understand events and people who draw a person from one thing to another, yet when it is God speaking to someone, that's not always a good enough reason? As Christians, we are called to believe, and put our faith in a God that we may not see, yet as we get to know Him, we learn to recognize his hand, his voice, his call on each of our lives. We see him at work in our world, in the lives of those around us, and in our own life, as we seek to know him, spend time with him. And as we spend that time, we soon get to know him, and 'see' him in action, and what an awesome thing that is!

I am reminded of a couple of verses too...

1 Corinthians 2: 9-10

However, as it is written:
"No eye has seen,
no ear has heard,
no mind has conceived
what God has prepared for those who love him"— but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.
The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God

2 Corinthians 4: 17-18.
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

It's a great reminder again, that I, and we, are all called to walk by faith! An awesome challenge!

Giving thanks at all times!

There is a Colin Buchannan song that I just love! It's called "Give Thanks" is about God's people looking at the amazing things that God has done for his people, the chorus going:

"give thanks to the generous God, who blesses his children again, and again! Give thanks to the generous God, we should never complain, for He blesses his children again and again" Simple, yet so true!

I had a cool conversation with someone tonight about our constant desire here to give thanks thanks for what God has done, in the day, a situation, event, whatever it is. Over the years, it has become second nature to see things to give thanks, that we are expected to always have something to give thanks for, or a word to share, and it's such an awesome way to be! I am so grateful for having had to develop that habit. It multiplies, grows, encourages, blesses others when we get together and share the amazing things that God has done!

I was then doing some cooking and listening to a sermon and was doubly blessed, as the topic was all about giving thanks, and was overflowing with joy at all that God had done in and through the community, and the whole talk was just a beautiful picture of a Christ-filled community!

I guess it's like having a different perspective, of coming from a place of seeing from a place of wanting to find things to give thanks for, of wearing spiritual glasses the pro-actively look for things to give thanks for.

I love that in 1 Thess 5:16-18 says: Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

It's not always an easy thing, when tough things are happening, or there are times when we just don't understand, but it's awesome to be able to give thanks all the time, knowing that God has already gone ahead of all that has and is happening and we are called to walk in obedience.

Dead ends and busy highways

I started what seemed like a really good conversation with someone recently. It was on a gritty topic that challenges me, and I don’t know all the answers, but enjoy talking through all the possibilities. Unfortunately the topic was ended suddenly at the point of discussing the problem. I realised just how unsatisfying it is to just complain about something. Anyone in the world can, and does do that. There’s always something to complain about, someone is always doing something wrong at the wrong time, they should be doing it our way(even if we don’t know what to do, or don’t want to do it if we do), someone to pull down, and discourage, deflating them like a balloon..

What I have found I do enjoy and appreciate, is being able to talk through the options and possibilities. What can we do about something in our situation, for whatever we are discussing (rather than leaving it to ‘other people’), and what are we as Christians called to do? How are we, as God’s hands and feet meant to act, to go out, in the big, and the little, to serve God, and those around us. Who are we, as God’s children, called to be in that situation, whatever that is. We can disagree with a situation without condemning the whole situation or person. We can still love the people, and be respectful of them, even if we don’t think the same way. We can still hold onto our integrity, faith, love, truth, encouragement in it all

I like seeing a challenging situation and finding the good in it, of seeing it from a position of what is being done right, and well, bringing life and growth! Something like a dead end, vs a thriving highway. One stops, and doesn’t go anywhere, whereas the other has places to go, is life giving, thriving and growing! If we can get past the complaining, that’s where we can really grow, learn, be challenged and who knows where God will take us! I'm looking forward to finishing the conversation!

Are you sure?

I love that God speaks to his people in so many different ways. That as we get to know him better, spend more time with him, we learn to recognize him in our lives, that we learn to follow his leading, wherever that goes.

In so many ways, we have it so easy! We have the Bible, choc full of examples, stories and eye witness accounts of different events in which God speaks to his people. In some, God is working through examples like Job, where everything went wrong, Job lost absolutely everything, to people being persecuted, and going to jail- then being raised up to be the leaders of their country! Or where God speaks to his people, or a person in certain ways, through 'normal' ways, or though radical ways such as a burning bush, or a donkey. The people in the Bible had faith alone to go on, no Bible, or examples to look back on, often they were the ones who were paving the way for those going on after them, as they sought to seek, listen and obey God with their whole being.

And God uses them all. He calls each of us into a closer relationship with him, and each way is as unique and individual as we are each different from each other, yet he calls us each to be One Body, United in him.

And still there are moments, when I have heard his voice, and I want to ask, is that really you, God? Are you sure you want me to do that then, soon, or at a certain time?

I keep coming back to James, and reminded again and again of what we are each called to do. James 1: 22 says: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. An easy thing to do when it's all easy, but when it's something that doesn't make sense, or is hard, or you look silly, then what do you do? Well, it's pretty simple really, yet I think I get lulled into thinking it should all be easy, smooth sailing, and all the answers come all at the right time!

And so it's great that we do have the Word of God here, open, and full of God's promises, and his word, and he's faithful in, and through it all!

Working things out:)

Well, this week, I just worked something out! It has only taken me about 8 years to sort this one out, and now that I have, I don’t quite know what to do with this information, and what it really means in the long term.. quite possibly nothing at all though! I think it’s quite funny though that it’s taken me this long, so look forward to seeing what it all means in the grand scheme of things!

Looking back, it makes sense to me, but it kind of amazes me that I didn’t see it before when it was right there in front of me. So, I come back to that wonderful saying, yet again, that time will tell all things!

And as James says it so well…..

Be patient, then brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the Autumn and Spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near (James 5:7-8)

Five years in HK

I have been living and working in this part of the world for five years today. I remember vividly, the person who came to collect me from the airport, the people I ate my first dinner with, where I had come from, the tour I first took. Of all the years I have been here, this was the one that I most wanted someone to remember and note... and it hasn't been. The funny thing though, is that I have never really wanted to celebrate this anniversary, and I could never work out why. It has been remembered and marked, but I have always wanted to downplay it, and not make a big deal of it, so why does this one matter so much...

Perhaps it's because there won't be another one, perhaps because, for the second time since I have been here, I have said no to something... What if we were all only remembered for what we haven't done, for what's lacking, for not living up to expectations. Perhaps, because I have said no, it feels like I have failed, that I have been selfish, or unreasonable, and I wonder if I will be remembered for that alone, that in the end, the last 5 years doesn't count for more than that...

None of us will ever do enough, be enough, give enough, love enough, live up to who we should be, or be doing, and I see again and again how true that is in me, yet, am so, so grateful for the truths we can all build our lives around. And, I am so encouraged when I do feel like I am being selfish and unreasonable for saying no occasionally, that I can bring it to God, and he will sort it out, that he hasn't asked us for perfection, or to be everything to everyone.

2 Corinthians 12:9 says....

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

And I will give thanks for these five years, for the amazing people, work, friends, awesome times, awesome growth, and, I trust much more of all of it to come, wherever I am! I have loved these years and all they have held and will continue to call them awesome:)

Who am I to....

Have you ever wondered who you were to a person? What part do we play in their lives, is it a big part, or a little part, a best friend... or a good friend... an acquaintance...a colleague, a peer, or something else entirely. And what happens when one person thinks one thing, and the other person thinks something else entirely... for example, Person A thinks that Person B is a good friend to them, whereas Person B thinks that Person A is just a random person they met in the street. An extreme example, but you get the point.

Over the course of my life, I have been in situations when I have mistaken my relationship with someone, or someone has mistaken it with me, or we just can't figure it out in the social context that it exists, so we just have to wait and see how it all turns out... sometimes we are very pleasantly surprised, and at others, we have to live with what's offered.

I was thinking about it, and the thoughts turned to our relationship with Jesus and how we understand that relationship... he loves us more than we can possibly imagine, and we respond to that in very different ways. At best, we know him and love him, and live our lives seeking to serve, honor and know him better. At worst, we ignore him, or use him, or worse....

And yet, he stands there waiting for us to stop and turn back to him. And if we are in doubt, all we need to do is read through the bible, as it's jam packed full of God specifically telling each one of us how much he loves each of us! Amazing! I was reminded of The Father's love Letter, which is a small selection of verses from the Bible that share a taste of who we are to God!

What an awesome God!

A massive re-shuffle!

What would happen if everyone in the world could do the job they wanted to do? What would happen if every Christian could do what they believed God called them to, in the place he calls them to(whether or not it is a job as such)?

It makes sense to me that if each one of us is fearfully and wonderfully made, created specifically, uniquely, one of a kind, made with purpose and love, specifically knitted together, then... if we were all doing what God called us to do, then it would be kinda like pieces in a puzzle (taking into consideration that we live in an imperfect world of course) where everything fit together.

We, God's people would be like a well oiled machine all working together as one body in Christ, working in unity together... how great would that be!

Some people know too, from the beginning what they would like to do in their lives. They have a vocation, or purpose, or vision, yet for others it takes a while to get there, but it's still valid and unique, and who's to say the things they did along the way didn't have purpose or meaning.

I have had a few conversations today with people who have been talking about visions, and things, or projects that just seem to make their hearts sing, and it's such a beautiful thing to see and walk beside, and it makes my heart sing to listen to them and support them as they talk through their hopes, and work through the process of making it all happen.

I was reminded yesterday of a book I read a year ago now, 'Cure for the common life' by Max Lucado, that looks at each of our gifts, and the concept of living in our sweet spot- that ideal place that put the things we most love to do, to best use. Thinking about this too, I was reminded of Psalm 139, and Romans 28-31. How awesome is our God:)

Waiting for....

There are times when it feels like I am still waiting for life to start, which is a slightly terrifying thing at my age(!).... but there are things I feel like I am waiting for, things to fall into place, so that everything else will fall in line, events to happen, things to add up... Some things are seen, and some things aren't but there is still that sense of waiting for things to happen

We have been doing a sermon series on James at church over the last few months, and it's just great! I have always loved the book of James, as there is so much in there, and so many practical things for each of us, no matter where we are in life. But my eye was caught by the word patience a few weeks ago, so have been mulling over James 5: 7-9 for some time now, just thinking through how it might apply in different situations.

Be patient, then, brothers until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm because the Lord's coming is near.

I am reminded too, of the seasons, in nature, where every season has a purpose, including winter, where, in general nothing grows. But that doesn't mean that it's dead, or inactive. Even that time has purpose to it, much like a farmer leaving a field to lie fallow for a time, to rest, and restore nutrients to it, so it can bear even more fruit, and grow much better, because of the time of rest.

There are some things too, that I am waiting for, and the funny thing is, that if I try to make them happen, they won't actually be what I am waiting for, so therefore I am stuck! I would dearly love them to happen, but if I have any active hand in them, it will transform them into something I don't want to be..... so once again, I am glad I can leave them safely in the Master Gardener's hands, knowing they are safe and well there, and if it happens, it will happen at just the right time and in his way (not just because I would like it to happen!).

So, I am encouraged that God's timing is perfect, that he knows the big HUGE picture of what is going on. He has everything timed to absolute perfection:)

Hmm.. God's timing.. that's a whole other post right there!

Thanks friends:)

This week has been one, of realising again what amazing friends I have! There have been so many moments where I have just stopped in wonder at how awesome the people I know are, whether here, or far away, in whatever time zone. There are those here, who I am so blessed to live and work with (and oh, what a treat when I can even hang out with them!), those far away who I miss terribly from time to time, and those who are far away, who I am closely in contact with, whether it's through email, skype, facebook, or blogging.

Coming to the end of the week, having a wonderful evening with some great friends, looking back over the week and all that has happened, it's lovely to be able to Thank you Lord, for my most amazing friends, from the very bottom of my heart:)

The art of the put-down...

What is it with people where we only seem to see what HASN'T been done, rather the the copious amounts of things that, in any given situation, HAVE been done!!!

I was reminded of that once again in so many different contexts this week, and is something I have been thinking through in a number of different situations, some that I have been involved with, and some I have heard about. Why is it so easy for us to criticize others and pull them down? Why are we so quick to judge, and condemn, to give 'the answer' when we have no idea of the situation really.

We had a great sermon last week on it too! James 4:11-12 says.. Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you- who are you to judge your neighbour?

One of the most striking things the minister said about this was that he went through a list of things the church would rightly fire him for, in terms of misconduct unbecoming to the clergy(or anyone for that matter!). He then came to slander, and stopped. According to this, yes, we are all guilty of sinning each time we judge and condemn another..... and yes we do it so often, and so often without thinking about it, or the rightness or wrongness of it. It has certainly made me stop and think each time I have thought about saying something less than kind about another person, but has made me realize how often I do it, and how much a part of our society it is, and how acceptable it is to slander another person(in words, or action), either someone we know, or someone in leadership, or someone famous.

Too often we don't know the whole story, we don't know the person's motivation, and we don't know the answer! It is such an easy thing to do, and so easy to slip into.. but how wonderful to live in a slander-free society!!

On reading Job

I have been reading through the book of Job over the last few weeks. It's a book I have slightly dreaded reading, as I tend to find it slightly tricky to tell the truth of what Job is saying and holding onto, to the 'mostly' truth of what his friends are saying all the way through, especially in amongst their fine words and eloquent speaking.



It was great to get through it though, annd get to Job 28, where Job so beautifully describes how hard it is to find wisdom, true wisdom. It isn't just lying around there waiting to be picked up. It's down deep, and you have to search hard, and go far to reach it. I was so encouraged too, in that concept that the fear of the Lord.. that's true wisdom. That's good wisdom, and challenging when there are potentially so many things, people and events one could forseeably fear over God, who isn't always such a physical presence in front of us.

Check out: 23-28 God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells,
for he views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens.
When he established the force of the wind and measured out the waters,
when he made a decree for the rain and a path for the thunderstorm,
then he looked at wisdom and appraised it; he confirmed it and tested it.
And he said to man, 'The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.'

Later on God comes in, and really puts them all, and us, in our places! Awesome! Chapter 38 really sets them and us straight. And what's best... he's Our God! He loves us, has redeemed us, and and sends us, little tiny us, in his name! The whole thing is awesome!!

And to top it all off... we are working our way through James in the study series at chuch at the moment, and it's amazing how much it has tied in with what I have been reading in Job! In particular, James 3:17-18. By the wisdom hat comes from heaven is first of all pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissine, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

I think we can trust this God of ours:)

Who do you think you are???!!!!:)

I woke up this morning, realizing exactly what the question was that was going around in my head.. it was there, but I just couldn't place a finger on what it actually was...!

It was... "who do you think you are??" and the follow-on to that... "who do you think you are to be doing A, B, or C??" It made me realize why I am in the position I am in right now and a little of what I think might hold me back. Then looking around... I wonder how many of us are stopped from doing what God calls us to do, because we just don't think we can, or it seems like such a presumptuous thing for us specifically to be doing! We all know God calls us to big things, and new things, to teach us and draw us on in him, but sometimes life takes over, and sometimes other things, or other people get in the way, not to mention the needs. There is sooo much to be done!

Soooo...... who does each of us think we are? Where are we going, and what would God have us do? We are all given free will and a choice to obey, or not. We all have the opportunity to learn to hear what God would have for each of us in our lives, and sometimes it's easier to do it, and sometimes, it's easier to stick to what's safe and what we know and can do, rather than going on, allowing ourselves to be stretched and prodded into all kinds of amazing things.

So.... who do we think we are...? We are the beloved children of God. He speaks to each of us and calls us by name. He has a plan to lead, and grow us, in a unique and individual way that is just right for us, not the next person. He doesn't call us to do as much as we can, but to love him with all our heart, and give our lives to him to pour into, and out of, in whatever way he chooses to do so!! So amen to that!:) And that's just the beginning....:) Think of all those big huge things he can do with a whole body of us working together!

Serving or Pouring out...

I went to read My Utmost for His highest today, by Oswald Chambers, and was really struck by it, especially the comment, saying that it is easier to serve than to pour our your lives completely to him. But what does it look like for me to pour out my life completely, or any of us for that matter. And how easy it is to serve.

I think we can serve AS we pour our lives out completely for him, but think it must be a very fine line for each of us sometimes. We all want to serve God and obey him, because we know he has the best plan ever… So I look in wonder again, and ask again how I can live a life of unsullied, uncompromising, and unbribed devotions to Jesus….I try so hard not to be biased in either direction, but don’t think it’s as easy as I would like it to be….:)

Valid, or not valid

I was thinking some more about this phone call I had last week, and got to thinking about all those situations when love, or friendship is offered... but not returned... does it make one persons' feeling more valid than the other, if one person says it should be one way, and the other doesn't agree?

Or does it just mean that they have a difference of opinion, and they both just have to deal with the consequences.

TO care for an object is one thing.. it's never going to 'care' back, but when it comes to people, that's another story. It becomes a mutual arrangement, or not. And what of those poor old feelings in the middle, in whichever direction they are facing, what does one do with them!
Anyway, it's something I have been thinking about....:)

Noise and voices...

Tonight a guy from India called. He is the brother of someone who I met last year, and he has decided that he loves me, and I should go and live in India. He has been calling for some time now, to the point where he has offered to pay for me to go to India for a holiday! And he doesn't know me, so has nothing to base his opinion on!

It reminded me of all the voices we all have in our lives, of the noise that surrounds us in our busy lives, and how vital it is to steal away into the quietness to listen to the still small voice that matters the most.

After the phone call, I realize that when he had called, I had been alone, but really enjoying that time of quiet, rest and peace of listening to the still small voice I know and love so well, and of just how God wants to have us in that place of choosing to be in His presence, of wanting to listen to and obey him alone. And there are times when he goes to a lot of trouble to bring us into a place where he has the attention of both our ears, and our hearts! I was reminded of 1 Kings 19, and the trouble God went to, so that Elijah would listen to him, and him alone. Once again, what an amazing God we have!

Life long friends...

I have some life long (well, almost) friends I would like to introduce to you. Well, while they aren't life long, and they aren't really friends, they seem like it, and it very much felt like it when I stopped in front of their wonderfully familiar faces yesterday in a bookshop. You see, these friends are a group of people in a painting, who happened to appear on the cover of a new book. The painting is one by Renoir, called "Luncheon of the Boating Party"


There is so much I love about this painting, I love their obvious friendship, they are relaxed, comfortable, happy, content to be with each other in fellowship, over a good meal, chatting away in a beautiful setting, spending quality time together.

I have often wondered how much this painting has shaped who I am today. When I was about 12, my family went down to Canberra to see the latest impressionist, or Renoir exhibition, and mum had said that she would buy me a print of one of the paintings. I don't know how I came to choose this one, because back then, I was terrible at choosing anything, but this is the one I walked away with. Miracle of miracles, Mum and I later on went to the picture framers, and had it framed and since then it has lived on my wall, wherever I lived in Sydney, as I grew up.

Even now, I look at this group of people, and reminded of the fellowship that each of us is privileged to share, should we choose to accept it. It lies in stark contrast to the movie I saw yesterday, of the people Elizabeth met on her journey, and of their search for meaning, fellowship and wholeness. I guess we often shun true fellowship out of self preservation, or wanting to be independent, but it's nice to finally arrive in a place where you're 'home' with the people who know you best, and can kick off your shoes and....just be you:)

My Blueberry Nights

I went to see the movie, My Blueberry Nights, this afternoon with some friends, and am so glad I did! It has had alot of press here, as the writer, producer and director is a guy from Hong Kong, however it is filmed, starting in New York, and working it's way across to the west coast of the USA.

It is about Elizabeth's journey across the USA, and across a spectrum of relationships, or meetings with people along the way, and how their meetings impact each other, and causes change in each person. Throughout it all, she sends postcards to someone who she met just as she starts this journey, and in a sense, blogs it all and shares her discoveries of people, and of herself with that person. It reminded me a little of why I blog, and while I share, to get my thoughts out there, there are moments, when I know I do write with people in mind, or am thinking of a situation, or something like that, that I want to share.

It reminded me too, of some other random, random movies that I love, that do take a close up look at relationships, and how different people's interactions can cause different effects and change in each person. We are a fascinating bunch!

One comment that Elizabeth spoke of was that as she met different people, it was like looking into fragments of a mirror, and getting to know herself better through the interaction, however short or long it is. A beautiful picture! I need to see this one again:)

F.I.N.E.

One of my favorite conversations in a movie, well, one that keeps coming back to me, is one in "The Italian Job" Where two of the characters talk about being fine, and feeling fine. However.... in this case, being fine stood for Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic, and Emotional! It has always stuck, as it's a word we use to describe ourselves so often, yet, often we use it as an all covering fix-it for every situation. It might easily be true, but there are times when it is easier to stick to it, rather than admit the truth, or you just can't share how you are doing.

I was stuck by how prevalent it was again today, as I saw it talked about in a TV show I was watching tonight, and was reminded of another movie where two of the main characters were talking about how, not only were they fine, but they were absolutely fine.

So, in a day where I had an awesome time, I was also pulled in a nice big range of extremely different directions emotionally, I guess it's easier to choose "fine". I still wonder what God would have us do, and who he would have us be in that situation, but guess in the end, I will just have to get on and do the best I can and see how it all pans out.

Faithfulness

A bunch of us sang this song last night to see in the new year. While it’s an old, old song, it has words with such amazing truths in them, and what a wonderful way to see in the new year. As I came into 2007, there seemed to be so many new things about to happen, exciting new jobs and new directions, loads of wonderful possibilities! As the year unfolded though, it became clear, that while I thought I knew where God was taking me, he was actually taking me to a very different place!

Coming into this year, I am much more aware of my need, to pray, to keep praying, I don’t think I have ever prayed so much in all my life as I have in the last few months! To keep waiting for God, rather than jumping the gun and reaching my own conclusions, of submitting to him, and trusting that he knows best and stepping out in his footsteps, not mine, no matter where they lead.

I am so grateful for God’s faithfulness, in my life, and in the testimony of the lives of others. He doesn’t leave us or forsake us, he loves us amazingly, and takes us onward. I was also reminded of James 1again and the amazing reminders that God doesn’t change, and all the amazing reminders and challenges it gives each of us. There is much in there to think over, but last night, coming into the new year, it really blessed me!

So, blessings on each of you as you come into 2008. Wherever you are at, may you go deeper and stronger into all that God has for each of you in the coming year, knowing that our God is faithful!

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Refrain

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Refrain

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Lost

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

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

An amazing thought!

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

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

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

Going uphill

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

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

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

Farewells

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

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

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

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

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

Amy Charmichael

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

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

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

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


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

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

Where was I last Sunday..?

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

the real MaCoy

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

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

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

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

Preparing for Christmas #3

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

Preparing for Christmas #2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparing for Christmas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Love, God's way

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

SONNET 116

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds,

Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

It is the star to every wandering bark,

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

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

Within his bending sickle's compass come:

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,

But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

If this be error and upon me proved,

I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

Faith and Deeds

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

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

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

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

December 5 2001

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

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

cya, MAria


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

Those mistakes...

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

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

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

Manna...

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

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

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

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

Mistakes to learn from:)

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

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

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

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

Thank You!

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


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

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

Leaving a fragrance

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

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

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

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

Responding to God's call...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Different tastes....

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

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

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

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

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

Dessert Pasta

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

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

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

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

My amazing friends!

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

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

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

A perfect moment

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

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

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

Being Judged

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

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

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

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

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

Omnipresent yet personal too!:)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nice people don't change the world...

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

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

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

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

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

Going Home

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

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

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

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

Amy Charmichael strikes again:)

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


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

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

North Shore Wannabe!

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

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

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

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

Blessed

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

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

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

By the way..

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

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

What a precious gift we have in knowing him!

Joining the dots

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

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

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

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

Be thou my vision...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A New Day...

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

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

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

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

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

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