Coffee Break Lane

Engaging... to Engaged... to introducing Mrs Taylor!

2009-02-27T09:53:00.004+11:00

Engage #2

2008-09-14T16:25:00.006+10:00

How Should I Worship?

In John chapter 4 Jesus speaks with a Samaritan woman. A woman who is a social outcast. A woman who cannot go to the well to collect her water at the same time as the other women in the town for fear of abuse. A woman who finds satisfaction, some would say even her own sense of worship, in sleeping with a lot of men in the town. A woman who looks at the world around her and questions 'How should I worship?'

Lucky for her, the person she has this conversation with is the one true person who can provide the one true answer.
Jesus says to her "a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."

And whether we like it or not this answer is one which impacts every part of our lives, every part of how we live.
Jesus explains this new way of worship is different to the old. It is not requiring a particular place or time. This doesnt mean we get to chose whenever we want though, it means its continuous!

So if worship is continuous, what does this look like? (are you picturing someone walking around the office singing songs to God for all to hear?!)
Obviously it means in everything.
Driscoll said something that i found helpful for applying this to the workplace.
Work is worship (ie to the glory of God) and witness (ie showing people you are regenerated).
And how do we work out if we are worshipping with our lives? Driscoll gave us a helpful little formula: glory + sacrifice = worship.
Work out who or what you live for, then work out what sacrifices you make to that position of glory. This is how you know what is most important in your life. And if it isnt God, change it!

Interestingly, Driscoll said as humans, we are all worshipers. We all live for something. Often it is not the one true God.
So are you living in worship or in idolatry?

What do you long for most?
Where do you find comfort?
What do you make sacrifices for?
Who's approval do you seek?

Some of these questions really hit me.Am I really living to please God, or everyone else around me? Even if i ultimately am living to please him, do i really make that sacrifice in every day or do i think about how others may perceive that decision or remark first? Am i carrying out the things i know i want to do in service of Him or is something holding me back?

Meanwhile also as promised, here are a few more pics from JT's bday for you... Crossing the bridge post dinner...

The Deck next to Luna Park for drinks...

Engage #1

2008-08-31T16:29:00.006+10:00

Its August 2008. Winter.
Time is flying by.
With the dawn of each day comes new challenges in work and relationship.
One place of work has remained the same, yet the people that make it up changed dramatically. My place in it evolving each day. What am I doing there? A question remaining - though one aspect quite clear.
Another job begining with the '08 being challenges of a very different kind, but oh so welcomed and oh so important. What Im doing here is much clearer.
How does my relationship with God impact both these work places?
How does my relationship with my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ impact every relationship - from the 5 min telephone call, to the office lunch break, to the children I teach each week, to those i worship with, to those i live with and call my family, to those i call my friends... to everyone i meet?
How does my relationship with the one true Lord impact every single thing i do in my life?
How does my relationship with my Creator impact the decisions I make, or how I make those decisions?
How does my relationship with the true King impact how I spend the money I earn?

It is August 2008 and this weekend I headed to Katoomba for the Engage conference to address/raise these very questions, and more! This is what its about people! Lets make it happen!

It has been a full on weekend, as Mark Driscoll and Don Carson opened scriptures and boldly proclaimed the gospel and boldy challenged us to re-evaluate our lives. I needed it. I was impacted by it. I am praying to my gracious God for change in my life.

For the next few blog posts Im going to share with you one brief but defining point I either learnt or was reminded of this weekend that challenged me or opened my eyes.

Point #1: Religion vs. Regeneration.

Religion - following rules, seeing the way of living as the important thing, valuing the rituals and practices of prayer and going to church more than the relationship with God - Religion says "I have to".

Regeneration - or new birth by the Holy Spirit working in you - says "I want to", or even more than that, it says "I get to".
To pray to God. To attend church with his people. to sacrifice things to follow him. To read the Bible and go deeper and deeper into the scriptures. We get to do those things! As a Christian, it becomes a source of job to obey, because these things, these parts of relationship, are a priviledge and a blessing. A gift to be enjoyed and valued and desired. It is never a case of 'have to' when it comes to Jesus, for He has done all that needs to be done. Now it is a case of Praise God, I get to and I want to. How amazing is that! While I knew this, I needed that reminder to change my thinking and my heart so this becomes evident in everything i do and say.

The other thing I am going to do in each of these upcoming posts is include a new photograph I have taken, as this is part of me I wish to share. This posts photos are brought to you by the fun-tastic evening of celebrating JT's birthday last week.

Church Planting

2008-08-29T10:29:00.003+10:00

I have decided that Mark Driscoll is a cool guy!
I was lucky enought o be among the thousands who heard him at the Entertainment Centre on wednesday, and I liked what he had to say. This guy is obviously passionate about people coming to know Jesus! And from what i saw on wednesday, he's got the right idea about telling them about Him! Sure, some people may not respond to his brutal honesty and shock tactics, but what I think is great is the way he tinks about the audience he is speaking to - whether 10,000 people or 1 person, he wants to know where they are coming from and what issues they are dealing with and how he can reach them, while still being faithful to the gospel. This is cool!!
I was inspired by his passion for the gospel.

It was fun to hear him 'attack' the Aussie male pushing them to get into gear, and basically concluding they should go plant churches! As funny as it was to listen to, i gotta admit he's got a point. But not just for the Aussie male, but for all of us - lets get into gear and make the most of this life God has given us and share with people the most important thing they will ever hear! At a time when im trying to figure out what i want to do with my life, including what I want to be doing next year, this was a solid reminder. As Driscoll said, Jesus ministry was basically over at about 33 yrs of age. What on earth are we doing mucking around 'waiting' for something to come along. Action is where its at!

Driscoll mentioned he'd be back to chat church planting with us here in Australia sometime soon - and i am looking forward to hearing what light he has to shed! But in the meantime, I thought id check out his blog 'Acts 29' relating to church planting going on in the US.

Check out this post - it is seriously encouraging - and humbling!! That 7yr old has got the right idea!

Congratulations Rebs and Dan!

2008-08-11T10:40:00.005+10:00

A few weeks ago I had the beautiful priviledge of being the maid of honour at the wedding of my dear friends Rebs and Dan. Congratulations guys!! Im so excited for you!!

Rebs looked absolutely stunning. Dan scrubbed up well. The great Lord blessed them with an amazing sunny day (surrounded by heavy rain either side of the day!). The ceremony was beautiful and our great God was glorified. Oh and they had a very cool car too ;)

It was such an honour to share the day with them as they embarked on their new life together. And just so much fun too!!
(I do apologise for the lack of blogging as late, please do stay tunned as i promise to return shortly with a few movie reviews, photos, and a fresh take on the usual ramblings....)

Welcome to the World

2008-07-16T12:44:00.002+10:00

My cousin's little baby girl, who was born on Friday the 11th of July.
Isnt she beautiful?! Its at this point when i am so very thankful for the invention of internet and photographs - she lives in NZ and i wont be able to meet her to at least February!
Welcome to the world Ella!

Church

2008-06-21T11:21:00.002+10:00

Church.
Its not a building, its the people of God.
For the last few years Artarmon Community Church has been meeting in the local primary school. Its a great venue because there's heaps of room to have the main meeting in the school hall and to have the kids running around crazily on the other side of the property without disturbing the parents.
Unfortunately, the school decided it no longer wanted us there, and so the last few months have involved searching for a new place to meet.
This has been quite a struggle, but ive also found it a joy for a couple of reasons...
Firstly, im just excited to be apart of that process in church life. As part of the ministry team there ive have the priviledge to be involved in parts of the decision making regarding what would work best for kids church, and that has just been a really joyful experience for me, having never been apart of something like that before! Its exciting to get a glimpse into the behind the scenes of ministry and be challenged to think about the needs of the church and how to best meet them.
Secondly, its just been such a joy to see how people arent really too concerned about it all. Now dont get me wrong, they obviously have been worried about whether we will actually have somewhere to meet from July onwards, but their trust in God has been so aparent and i think it has ultimately really brought home the fact that church isnt anything to do with where you meet, but the people who are gathered and why. The body of Christ meeting to grow in relationship with Him and honor and praise Him. I have been encouraged by that thought ever since starting work at Atarmon, not only cos it met in a school, but also cos its such a smaller church than my home church, Christ Church St Ives. The community feel at this church is so strong its just so great! And that has shone through as we've searched for our new location, because these people care about encouraging each other in relationship with Christ, and they know they will do that regardless of where they are! Praise God!
And praise God still, for we have now found a new location to meet!! We move there on the 6th of July. Please pray for the move, and thank our gracious God for providing us with this new church building!

I shall leave you with another pic from the weekend away, one depicting our gracious God's beautiful creation!

Back and Blessed!

2008-06-08T16:46:00.007+10:00

Housesitting was one of the best experiences ever!
Apart from the crazy cat, who was affectionate but also just pretty much psycho at times, living out of home for a month in a flat in Lane Cove was just the best way to keep my life on track and moving forward - pretty much i got a taste of the independance and freedom ive been craving - and grabbed it by both horns and rode it home baby!

Alas this means now i am home again it will be a bit of a struggle, but i am truely thankful for the way even such a brief experience can strengthen and grow me!

Meanwhile, speaking of growth, the Bible study im apart of this year finally got to have our weekend away toward the end of May - and it was awesome! Singstar, chai lattes overlooking the valley, wanders through funky mountains shops, a look at what the Bible says about spiritual gifts, consuming lots of food, gazing at the amazing book collection in the house we stayed in, and a walk by the three sisters. Not bad! Its great how a weekend together just chillaxing and taking time out of crazy sydney and the life that follows can really grow a group! It was just a great weekend of getting to know each other and overcoming any akwardness which still got in the way of having a completely honest and comfortable Bible study. So Praise God for that!
Plus, it was just sooo good to have a break!! While I love every week of my ministry at Artarmon and the joys and challlenges that accompany it, i have realised that taking a break occassionally actually strengthens that ministry rather than displaying weakness - i came back feeling so refreshed and pumped to get back into it!

Anywho, Im going to go read what Bonhoffer has to say about Disappointment (in 'The Consolations of Theology'), so i will leave you with some pics from the weekend away and return shortly to let you know what i discover....

still alive and blogging...

2008-05-09T08:45:00.003+10:00

Hello faithful readers! I just wanted to let you know a new post IS coming, I am just currently housesitting (or rather catsitting?!) at a place that has no internet access so the posts I have up my sleave cant quite make it out just yet..... watch this space and ill get some happening again asap!

Speaking of housesitting though, its great! Ok, so the cat can be a little psycho sometimes, but that can be entertaining....when its not involving the fear of her jumping on my head in the middle of the night! It is the first time ive lived out of home, and its great to have a bit of space and freedom! Very thankful for this experience!

In other news, the job at Artarmon (...did I ever actually tell you all about that? well im working part time at Artarmon Community church with the kiddies...) is going well, and ive taken on a Scripture class thursday mornings now, which is just such a joy! I decided yesterday thats Thursdays are just one of the best days! Thats the day I have off my HR job and have Scripture in the morning, occassionally followed by a coffee with someone from church, then a lunch time group at a high school where we get to chew the fat and get deep into God's word with a great bunch of kids; followed by a prep for friday & sunday ministries. While I love every bit of my job at Artarmon, Ive just really been loving the challenges and joys of having a day like thursday! Praise God - what a blessing!

ok, really gotta get back to work now....

John Mayer vs Michael Jackson? Which do you choose?

2008-04-01T18:33:00.005+11:00

Ok, so I actually like both as muscians, thats not the query here. My query refers not to the artists nor to which is a better entertainer, person, or musician. My query refers to the different attitudes expressed in two of their songs...

"That's why we're waiting
Waiting on the world to change...
One day our generation's gonna rule the population
So we keep on waiting
Waiting on the world to change"

These are the words of John Mayer. Now I know there is a certain context to the song, I dont want to ignore that, but if you bare with me, thats not what we're worried about here....

As I listened to these words on the radio last week I was reminded of another favourite tune by Michael Jackson which includes these words...

"Im starting with the man in the mirror
Im asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself, and
Then make a change"

Words I have heard (and yes, sung along to) many times before, but which this time made me realise the significantly key difference between the two attitudes of these two sets of lyrics; one, wait for the world to change, you dont need to do the changing, its the world that does. The other: start with yourself, and that will make an impact on self, others, service of God, and the world (obviously to varying degrees). One allows either for the attitude of change is too hard or simply that of indifference. While the other reinforces the worth of taking action to make the most of the world & life God has given us, and to do so starting with self.
I personally have recently realised the beauty and worth of challenging oneself, in embracing life, so as to contribute to this world, relationships, and the lives of others in the best way possible!

A lot of change has happened in my life recently. And therefore, also a lot of growth. It is exciting to see how God shapes you and to see how life can change for the better when you do more than just 'wait for the world to change'... I think life is most enjoyed - and most effectively utilised as God intends - when we dont just sit back and wait to see what will happen to us...

I dont know about you, but 'Im starting with the (wo)man in the mirror'

Tam & Steve

2008-03-02T17:52:00.003+11:00

With the arrival of a new month and a new season came the celebration of the marriage of my friends Tam and Steve!
A crisp clear autumn day, there was nothing but joy felt as we saw them marry and celebrated with them afterwards, with the couple with amazing smiles spread across their faces the whole time! An exciting moment when Ive known Tam for nearly 10 years!
Complete with a fairytale like stroll by the couple across perfect green hills of Terry Hills golf club, it was a beautiful day and a very fun night! Praise God for celebrations, friends, and relationships like these!
Congratulations Tam and Steve!!

True Heroes

2008-02-09T15:18:00.000+11:00

After a week of rain, God was very good to JT and I as we headed to the Cricket for a belated Christmas present to ourselves!
And man was it a great day!!
Australia won pretty easily in the end, but Sri Lanka fought hard til the last ball - and gave a spectacular display of a few 6's along the way! Oh and I gotta say those Sri Lankan fans certainly know how to party - bongo drums and tamborines and a bit of a dance is definitely a fun way to celebrate a nice catch or hit to the boundary!

In other news, I saw the film Hero on DVD this week, and lets just say it exceeded my expectations!
As expected of any martial arts film, there was a lot of fighting, but I love how fighting in films like that is so much easier to watch as its beautiful and skillful choreography outweighs the violence.
Furthermore, the director is clearly someone who just loves colour and the visual impact colour can have on the meaning of a scene, and therefore, impact its viewers. Throughout this film we are told a story from a couple of different perspectives, and each time the story is told slightly differently we are presented it in a different colour. The result is a beautiful array of reds, yellows, white, blues and greens flooding the screen from costumes to scenery.
Simple concept I supose, but oh so effective.
While it seems the main point of the colours is to distinguish the fabricated stroy from that of the truth, to me it seems the colours go beyond that to represent motives, emotions and concepts central to the theme.
There are beautiful shots of China's vast and varying land, and each time the surroundings are used effectively to add another element to the story, to the motives of the characters. A swirl of bright yellow leaves around two passionate woman fighting over the death of the man they love consumes them just as their anger or sadness does.
Two characters in love but destined to die for a cause are shot in complete isolation in a vast desert, lost in their plan and passion with no way out.
Revenge, avengence, retaliation, and heartbreak are seen in so much more than the plot of this film.
And more than that, it presents a warrior, a true hero, as one who will fight yet with no desire to kill. A swordsman who is about skill rather than a need to draw blood.
Ill leave it there cos you need to see it to see how it unfolds, how this wisdom and realisation is presented, but i will say it is worth seeing!
If you've seen it, or see it, let me know your thoughts!

I will RUN

2008-01-22T21:41:00.000+11:00

How long will it be until we are standing face to face
How long will it be until I behold that wondrous place
My eyes will be fixed on You and my heart will have found its home
Until then I will run this race and will live to make You known

I will run I will run
All my days are Yours
I will run cause You are all
I am living for

I have been thinking alot lately about making the most of each and every day. Each days has its challenges, its ups and downs, but regardless of the bolders, rocks or pebbles that get in the way, we can still decide to make the most of them, and the day holding them.
And these words here from Jason Morant's song 'I will run' is what I want to do with those days, this is what it means to make the most of those days, to live for God, to make His name known, to live according to the way He intended you to live.....
I said its something ive been thinking about quite a bit lately.... i think thats cos as an imperfect person i simply need reminding.... but thats ok, i just plan to remind myself every single morning, thats all...

(The above photograph was taken by yours truely at Gerringong, dawn, early Jan 08)

Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-06T07:58:00.000+11:00

I hope you all had an enjoyable new years and I wish you all the best for 2008!!
2008 .... has a nice ring to it, dont you think?!

This New Years Eve will definitely be one to remember, and one very hard to top!
JT and I spent it on a friend's boat on Sydney Harbour!
It was a beautiful summer evening, one of the most amazing sunsets ive ever seen on the harbour, some very tastey food, some great friends...including of course Sting, Nicole and Keith on neighbouring boats, and what I think were the best sets of fireworks I have ever seen! Perhaps it was the magic of being on the harbour underneath the fireworks as they lit up not only Sydney's skies, but also the waters below, filling this famous space with reds and greens, leaving boats to be siloetted in the night...Anyway, here are just a few of the pics, more coming soon..... for now, its off to Gerringong for a much awaited beach holiday!! woohooooo!!

2007-12-29T11:06:00.000+11:00

Though this is technically a little late to respond - Christmas being 5 days ago and all - but Tim 'dobbed me in' so I thought I should accept the challenge...

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Well I have to say the gift bag is a fun invention, useful for the multi-part gift, but I am a wrapper at heart...what can I say?! I love to wrap gifts!

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial Im affraid.... though the tree holds some good memories, I would lvoe a real one some day!

3. When do you put up your tree? We usually get in a few weeks before at least, but this year was just the week before - Christmas just snuck up!

4. When do you take the tree down? hmm I do like to make the effort and beauty of my tree decorating last...when the family think its time?!

5. Do you like eggnog? Ya know, I think I tried it once in the States, but didnt like it much..... but id give it another shot now...

6. Favourite gift received as a child? Thats a hard one.... I do remember 'unwrapping' my bike as a kid, and that was just way to exciting!

7. Do you have a Nativity scene? No

8. Hardest person to buy for? My parents sometimes...Its been so many years its hard to keep new ideas comin!

9. Easiest person to buy for? JT

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Cant think of anything!

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? What about blog messages?! Cards for sure! (though gotta say email has come in handy for those ppl I just dont see as much...)

12. Favorite Christmas movie? Miracle on 34th Street maybe....
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Well, a couple months before ill start getting things when I see them.... otherwise like to have it done a good week or two before.... get the pressies wrapped and under the tree nice n early!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nup! Hadnt really thought of it i guess, all presents i get are appreciated....

15. Favorite things to eat at Christmas? Well I was going to say prawns and turkey.... but why only eat them at christmas?! ;)

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? We've had coloured for years, but I think next year will be a good chance to break out and try clear!

17. Favorite Christmas song? "Angels from the realms of glory" (new fave this year!)

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Either! Travelled for Christmas for years & it is fun, exciting getting to see family etc.... I have been on a plane Christmas day before & all the staff made it fun.... special meals and everyhting...

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cubit, Donner..........

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Whichever we'll have.... this year an angel.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning for sure, with the family

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? That so many people run round crazily trying to buy presents and they never know or think about why, or the stress of that takes out the joy that we are meant to be experiencing in doing that and that it becomes commercialised.....

23. What is the "corniest" family tradition you do, or miss doing? cant think of any! :(

24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? just some of those massive bright ones which u cant realy tell what they are and they just look random on a tree cos they;re three times the size of anything else there...

25. Which looks the best, theme trees or homey trees? Lately Im a fan of the colour theme ..... bit of silver & gold maybe..

26. What does Christmas mean to you? Our great and powerful God humbling himself to come into this world to live amongst and save his people.

So, I realise its a little late in the Christmas calender and all but I dont suppose JT, Walshy and Jman would like to give it a go?!

Weddings & Wine

2007-12-20T20:31:00.000+11:00

I feel like so much has been happening and there is so much that could be said, but all I can manage right now are a few pictures...

Friday afternoon saw the beautiful celebtration & marriage of my dear friends Sabs & Walshy. Such joy!! A day spent with good friends & a day that also so clearly represented God's love.... just as this couple so boldy and faithfully do too.
At this stage they were so sick of smiling for photos, but they did so well!
Congrats guys!

And speaking of celebratory moods, good food and good times, I only had one day at work then it was off to the Hunter Valley for a couple of days!
After educating ourselves a little further on the art of wine appreciation, there was also plenty of fine eating, photo taking, soaking in sun and admiring the God's creative creation, and enjoying another beautiful gift from God, that of relationships, as we bumped into some friends on our journeys and stayed the night with some more. Oh and i even discovered a new love of ports! ...stay tuned for futher Hunter shots...

Hens Nite!!

2007-12-14T10:36:00.000+11:00

Yep, Sabrina and James are getting married! Today actually.....
And, last Saturday night was Sabs' hens night!!

A group of us girls enjoyed some quality girl time hanging out and enjoying some rather tastey and gourmet food as we floated around the beautiful Sydney Harbour.... oh it was a very good night!!

I love these girls, we have been friends for years, and I am so thankful for their friendship and the light they are in my life.
Thanks sabs for getting married so we could have this night... ;-)

Sabrina, the bride to be, and Kate, her maid of honor

2007-12-08T13:53:00.000+11:00

“For times they are a-changin”
- Bob Dylan

Lets just say Bob had the right idea when he wrote these words 40 yrs ago…

While Glandular Fever still sits away inside of me, I am pushin on through and have made it back into almost the full swing of things, with finally getting to 3 full days at work this week (HR job) and getting out into the world again.

I have been offered and accepted another job (Ill let you wait a little longer for the details of that one)

I have resigned from my job at the newsagents – after 4 years, the job that helped me through uni – yes, Ive moved onto bigger and better things!

I ve had my final Bible study with the year 7s and with TC Core!

And I have bought a car (my first car)!
Its all happening!
My life is changing somewhat dramatically - - and its exciting!!

Bring on the challenges ahead!

And with it all, there has – as can be expected – been tremendous growth!
God has been teaching me much, and continues to do so.

Yes, while some changes can be a little scary, ive decided meandering through life is not a very good option, and lifes opportunities and challenges must be embraced and tackled head on to be effectively enjoyed and utilised to their full potential!

I guess part of all this learning process has come with the inevitable lessons that come hand in hand with something like glandular fever.
In sickness God teaches us humilty. We are weak, fragile beings which in reality cannot actually control our lives as much as we desire and attempt to. Yet even through our sickness, our weakness, God remains strong, and his power is evident that much more!

Only one thing left to do really…. Praise God, the creator and sustainer of life, the one who gives us all these blessings and opportunities to allow us growth, everyday, in Him!

Lauren & Chris

2007-11-18T20:12:00.000+11:00

Yesterday was the wedding of my good friends Lauren & Chris.
It was absolutely beautiful!
In fact, as far as weddings can go, I think this one turned out pretty much perfect!

The weather was great. The band was awesome. The bride (and the rest of the bridal party too) looked absolutely amazing! And all went according to plan.
But what made the whole day so much more beautiful and full of joy was the focus of both the ceremony and the bride and groom. Yes, on a day that the world so often presents as the most important and happiest day of your life, the one all about you, Lauren and Chris joyfully kept the focus on their Lord and Saviour, and a wedding banquet they are looking forward to even more than their own - that to be enjoyed with Jesus on our gracious arrival to Heaven. It was so encouraging and refreshing to not only see them focused on this, but also just to be reminded of our goal in this journey of life!

Praise God for the way He worked through and in this day! And for these two who He has lovingly brought together!

Congratulations Lauren & Chris!!

On My Journey Home

2007-11-07T17:13:00.000+11:00

Every traveller needs to be well equipped for both their journey, both the rain and the sunshine...
Here are a few things that, when contemplated and addressed head on, will help me (and hopefully you) on the journey home...

"Have you realised that most of your unhappiness is due to the fact that you are listening to yourself instead of talking to yourself?"
Think about it - Martin Lloyd-Jones has a brilliant point here!

In the book of Numbers we see God's people on a pilgrimage to the promised land. In the book of Hebrews the Christian life is presented as a pilgrimage to a heavenly land of promise.
What Israel fails to do that Hebrews stresses we cannot is remain committed. They cease "to be pilgrims on their way to rest and become aimless wanderers in the wilderness."
If we arent careful we could stray from the track and become aimless wanderers too.
As a traveller on my journey home I read this and am reminded to keep an eye on those things that may distract me from the pilgrimage; intriguing wildlife that may just be a little too far from the track. Its one thing to emjoy the journey - and we should - but a very different thing to get lost in it so much we forget where we were headed to start with.....After all, wandering aimlessly never ends up well...

Im Famous!

2007-10-30T10:44:00.000+11:00

So I had an email on my Flickr account today from someone saying they had seen one of my photos on a Dutch website!!
Yes, I was thinking the same thing - What the?!

But its true! Someone at this 'cultural institution' liked my photo and put it on their site.... thankfully they did actually credit who took it!

You can check it out here if you want.

I was a little concerned...but also quite honored! My photo is being enjoyed and acknowledged on the other side of the world! Cool!

(Dont worry, privacy settings have since been adjusted)

Happy Birthday to me!

2007-10-25T13:15:00.000+10:00

So I think the most frustrating thing about having glandular fever is the fact that you just get too tired to do anything. There have been a number of things Ive missed out on over the last couple of months cos of this, and so when it came to thinking about how to celebrate my birthday this year, it was a little disappointing to realise i couldnt do any of the things I had originally hoped to do.

But you know what, that actually didnt matter at all!
When it came to the day I had an absolutely wonderful one!

And thats because relationships and people are far more important than things and places.

I was blessed to have some girlfriends over in the morning, lunch with the most wonderful man on earth, and an evening spent with my family (with my brother's return home from melbourne timed perfectly to have us all together). On top of that the Lord blessed us with an absolutely beautiful day to enjoy it all in. And over the last few days Ive been completely spoilt with many beautiful bunches of flowers only the most creative and loving Lord could design!
Yes, this years birthday was full of joy because I have been blessed with so many wonderful people in my life who love and care for me! Just what I needed! I got quite tired by the end of it all, but these people made my day!
...oh and all the cake was pretty brilliant too ;)

2007-10-18T20:31:00.000+10:00

So I got a new toy!!
Last saturday I got to venture out of the house to the shops - basically the first place ive been in about 5 weeks that wasnt a doctors surgey and purchased one of these babies... Isnt it beautiful?! It is basically a cool little lens for my camera that will be great for taking better portraits and the like! Im excited! Slowly building my little collection of equipment!
Looking forward to taking more shots! Bring it on!
Heres some from the weekend when we were testing it out...

Meanwhile, in keeping with my desire to do more creative activities, and with the amazing amoung of time i have found myself with of late, i did some painting today - and it was VERY therapeutic!!
There's just something about squeezing the paint out of the tubes, and creating something from nothing with carefree yet purpose driven brushes...

2007-10-08T20:09:00.000+10:00

"Begin each day as it it were on purpose."

Having glandular fever means I have spent alot of time resting and that has included a lot of DVD watching. Today it was 'Hitch', starring the ever-entertaining Will Smith.

As a movie it achieved all I wanted it to - it was light hearted entertainment for a lazy afternoon.

But as Will Smith's character Hitch uttered the line above with confidence as a man who believes he is in complete control of his day - his life - that he has the power t make it into whatever he desires, it made me think...
Yes, each day is on purpose!
But I think its what we perceive that purpose to be that becomes important.

As I said, I think Hitch says these words with such confidence cos he knows what he wants from the day and so his purpose will be to achieve that. He interprets it as the day is here on purpose for them to make the most of it.
Now, I like this quote because it has the attitude of making the most of every moment, every day, embracing the now, this life we have been given, and living it to the full! Thats gotta be a positive thing!

What it also made me think of, though, is how we can turn that into a somewhat selfish endevour - like Hitch perhaps - rather than seeing that day as with a purpose because God created it; God gave it to us to use to help achieve His purposes.

I think i was reminded of this difference cos of reading through Genesis over the past week and seeing how God works, often through His people, to achieve His purposes.
For example, we have Joseph, sold by his brothers in Egypt, but who realises that he is there to help in God's greater plan of salvation, not as a negative consequence of his brothers' actions. He says these words: "God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. ...It was not you who sent me here, but God." (45:7-8) He says this in light of saving the people from famine in the land, realising his purpose for those days and years in Egypt.

Who would have thought a line from a film like Hitch would challenge you into action, but I for one was reminded not only to make the most of each day, but also to do so in a way that acknowledges God's sovereignty over that day and how I can live not to achieve my purposes, but His...well, this is my prayer anyway...

Anyone else being challenged by any films lately? Or have any great film quotes they'd like to share?

2007-09-30T13:30:00.000+10:00

First of all, let me apologise for not posting more often of late. To those who still faithfully check coffee break lane I am truely thankful!

So, its been a big few weeks...

Firstly, JT was on holidays for the last two weeks and it was such a blessing to get to spend so much of that time with him....brunch and beaches, cocktails and chicken burgers at manly, new cafes and movies....

And what was even more perfect about the timing of this break was that it was the week before I started a new job!

Yes, you heard right, I got a new job!!!
After looking for about 9 months I had two interviews in two days and for one of them they called back within 2 hrs of the interview and offered me the job!

Its in Human Resources....and if you have been following this space for a while you'll notice that wasnt exactly my desired #1 option....but thats ok! It is a part time (3days a week) and only 5 mins from my house - how perfect is that? Which means I have time available to pursue other avenues (ie photography and film& theatre and art and ministry). So I am thankful for this answer to prayer God has so generously given me.

The not so good news is that, having been sick for about 4 weeks now, 2 days into starting my new job I got even sicker and discovered I have Glandular Fever!!
hmm great timing indeed! hmm can anyone say many, many, MANY hours of rest?!

Never fear though, spring is here, the sun is out, summer is coming, good things are still happening... and the very wonderful JT bought me the most beautiful roses I have ever seen...

Snow Patrol

2007-09-16T17:10:00.000+10:00

Last Saturday my amazing man took me to see Snow Patrol in Newcastle for my birthday.*
The concert was amazing!!

I love these guys, but they were even better live than I had imagined! Their songs sounded great, the crowd was singing along in unison, and lead singer Gary Lightbody was busting some crazy and rather entertaining moves up on stage! Plus, they've got cool Irish accents so hearing them was a nice added bonus! But even better was, being at Newcastle, our seats were so much closer than expected and we had a great view!
All in all, a VERY good night!!

*dont worry, my birthday isnt for another month so if you thought you'd forgotten you still have time ;)

Cocktails, Candles & Car Crashes

2007-09-06T12:51:00.000+10:00

Two weeks ago we celebrated JT's birthday.
And it was definitely a memorable weekend.
A mixture of the very good and the rather bad.

After an earlier but extremely enjoyable Bible study, I headed to the Newtown... Oh I was excited!!
After some present fun times, we headed to Bondi Icebergs with a bunch of his friends to sip martinis by candlelight taking in an ocean view!
It was a great night - and more importantly, the amazing man that is Josh had a good night! (Ill let him expand more on the detials though)Saturday brought some more fun times...and some suprises too...
After staying the night at MAC, which I enjoyed muchly, especially cos I could just get up and go across the street to JT, we inspected the Moore College Carnival and alter headed to Victoria Park for some more festivities. After checking out all the environmentally friendly product stalls, we very quickly migrated to the all the food stalls..... mmm pancakes with strawberries & chocolate....

Not long after enjoying the festivities in the sunny day, it was time to head to JT's brother's place for a family dinner in his honor. Unfortunately, on the way, us driving in convoy, a car rammed into the back of me, pushing me into JT's car.
Yup, my first car crash!!

Its amazing what damage can be done in such a split second...
They hit me pretty hard - so hard my stereo even flew out!
...leaving mine and the car that hit me undrivable,
...me with quite a bit of neck & back pain, which also meant I couldnt work (or do much at all) for over a week! (Its thankfully easing now though)
...And as of monday this week, the car I was driving was officially ritten off!
...Here is a pic of the damage to the back... I am of course very thankful that neither of us were worse off and I personally am very thankful JT was there with me!

Thankfully, after lots of phone calls, dealing with the four tow trucks that decided to pull up, and an hour wait for the police to come, we still finally made it to JT's family dinner, for which I am so grateful, as his family were great and it was a lovely evening.

So the week prior to the accident I kept having that line by Snow Patrol in my head "For once I want to be the car crash, not always just the traffic jam. Hit me hard enough to wake me..." But people, I didnt actually want to be in a car crash!! Its just a song!! I mean really....

So it was a full on weekend - a lot of very good memories made and moments enjoyed, celebrating JT's b'day and enjoying the blessings of family and friends....just with a little trial in there to make us appreciate each of those things so much more!

2007-09-02T21:41:00.000+10:00

Reading: Spurgeon Gold
"Sin, whatever it might be to other people, became to me an intolerable burden. ... I felt it would not satisfy my conscience if I could be forgiven unjustly, but then there came the question, how could God be just and yet justify me, who had been so guilty?"
"I do from my soul confess that I was never satisfied till I came to Christ."
"I could scarecely content myself even for five minutes without trying to to something for Christ."

Thinking & Feeling: refreshed and convicted by the sermon heard last night at church. After missing it on and off for a couple of weeks for health reasons I felt renewed & joyful being there this week! What was preached was something I am familiar with, but it was just one of those sermons that reminds you of that beautiful freedom we have in Christ. We addressed the common objection to Christianity that we all find truth for ourselves, dont force me to believe in God, I can find truth for myself. Gav pointed out that, despite what your personal view is, there is much, much freedom in the Truth. The question is not whether you have a master but which you choose to follow If you choose Truth as your master, you will be set free, free living life as it is meant to be with the right restrictions, free to be what we are meant to be and free from all other false masters. And that Truth is of course a person, Christ Jesus - it is not doctrine but personal. All quite fitting with conversations had recently regarding freedom...

Praying: Last night we started our september evangelistic series at church, dealing with questions and hard truths, and this was the message of freedom in the Truth was what we kicked off the series with. Itd be great to pray for those who came last night, those who are being invited, and those doing the inviting for the rest of the series! Big stuff happening, but God is even bigger!
Also, for wisdom in writing a study on Heaven for my yr7 girls.

Photo of the week: JT & I dressed for a 21st Sat night.
Listening: 'She Stays' by Northern Line and 'The One Thing' by Paul Colman - "The one thing I dont question is you; You really love me like you say you do...All I know at the end of the day is your love remains."

Looking forward to: Snow Patrol concert next weekend!!!!!!!!!

reflections

2007-08-29T20:30:00.000+10:00

A lot happened over this last weekend. Unfortunately for you, you shall have to wait just a little longer to hear about it...

In the meantime, I'd like to leave you with some reflections I have had regarding God's just judgment of late.

Yesterday I read through Psalm 94 and was reminded that while we look to God for refuge and know that through any anxiety, suffering or trials He holds onto us, bringing us joy in a way only knowing Him can, we far too often go straight to this beautiful truth and skip over the scary and ugly truth of sin and judgment.
We discussed this same fact at Bible study last night, after spending the last two weeks looking at what Paul has to say about sin and judgment in the book of Romans. Now that is a scary picture!

Of course, there is also a danger the other way, a danger of dwelling on your own sinfulness so much so that you are not freed as you should in the gift of salvation offered in Jesus, who lifts that burden from you.
Perhaps, like so many other things, there is a need for balance here.

But what I was really thinking of and reminded of was that sometimes it is good to spend that extra time taking in the reality of God's wrath.
Afterall, God's beautiful grace cannot be fully understood without first grasping the reality of the judgment we deserve!

Anyway, here is Psalm 94 for you to reflect on for yourselves in the quietness of your own heart....

Psalm 94
1 O LORD, the God who avenges,
O God who avenges, shine forth.
2 Rise up, O Judge of the earth;
pay back to the proud what they deserve.
3 How long will the wicked, O LORD,
how long will the wicked be jubilant?
4 They pour out arrogant words;
all the evildoers are full of boasting.
5 They crush your people, O LORD;
they oppress your inheritance.
6 They slay the widow and the alien;
they murder the fatherless.
7 They say, "The LORD does not see;
the God of Jacob pays no heed."
8 Take heed, you senseless ones among the people;
you fools, when will you become wise?
9 Does he who implanted the ear not hear?
Does he who formed the eye not see?
10 Does he who disciplines nations not punish?
Does he who teaches man lack knowledge?
11 The LORD knows the thoughts of man;
he knows that they are futile.
12 Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD,
the man you teach from your law;
13 you grant him relief from days of trouble,
till a pit is dug for the wicked.
14 For the LORD will not reject his people;
he will never forsake his inheritance.
15 Judgment will again be founded on righteousness,
and all the upright in heart will follow it.
16 Who will rise up for me against the wicked?
Who will take a stand for me against evildoers?
17 Unless the LORD had given me help,
I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death.
18 When I said, "My foot is slipping,"
your love, O LORD, supported me.
19 When anxiety was great within me,
your consolation brought joy to my soul.
20 Can a corrupt throne be allied with you--
one that brings on misery by its decrees?
21 They band together against the righteous
and condemn the innocent to death.
22 But the LORD has become my fortress,
and my God the rock in whom I take refuge.
23 He will repay them for their sins
and destroy them for their wickedness;
the LORD our God will destroy them.

In other news, I finished my PTC (Intro the the Bible) course last week, doing my exam last thursday! Yes, my first PTC course complete!! whooohooo!!
Who does an exam by choice?! Ohwell, it has been soo good! Praise God for such an opportunity to learn more about Him!

Full Steam Ahead!

2007-07-23T21:42:00.000+10:00

It has been a big weekend.
I feel like my mind has been on full steam ahead, express to central, no stops along the way.
And while Id love to share snap shots from the journey, all I can manage at this stage is something which was definitely a cause for change in direction, even if it was not necessarily the destination (as Im still not 100% sure what the destination was, though im thinking it might so simply and beautifully be growth...):

"The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes."
Psalm 19:7-8

As I sat in church after a few weeks of being away; as I heard a sermon on Psalm 19; and as I continued through the day getting stuck into the Word in various ways, I could actually feel my soul being revived. Joy was brought to my heart. And light certainly brought to my eyes.
Praise God, for He speaks to us, in creation and the Bible, and when we really listen amazing things can happen!
...now I just gotta work out why i continually need to be reminded of that...keep reading the Bible Chelsea, come on, every day, keep going....for life is just not the same when it is neglected!!

Live Earth

2007-07-22T17:14:00.000+10:00

...pictures as promised :)View of the stage from where we were sitting, early on in the day, when Toni Collette was singin and people were still filing in the stadium.

Jack Missy

I'm baaack....and ready to snooze...

2007-07-18T11:58:00.000+10:00

Its been a busy past few weeks. I feel like there is a lot to say and a lot to blog but I cant do it all now...so i thought id give you a bit fof a highlights packages instead...

- cooked on Senior High HouseParty - first time cooking on a camp, learnt alot, great experience. It was tiring and challenging, but im glad i did it. And to top it all off, it was very encouraging to catch up with some of the girls i used to lead, seeing how they have grown in faith and just seeing them getting into reading the Bible is awesome!
-Live Earth Concert - good seats, good company, free tickets, great music, a lot of eating...all in all a great day! Fave gigs were Missy Higgins, John Butler Trio, Jack Johnson, and Crowded House! There is something pretty cool about having a whole stadium singing the words along with Neil Finn! And although a little disappointing it was cool to see Toni Collete live too! Photos from this event to come so stay tuned! (And to hear more about the exciting discoveries and adventures at Live Earth see JT's blog soon...)
- St Judes Dural - JT's old church - very cool to visit the place he grew up, hear some faithful and challenging teaching from Dave, and be led in worship by some amazing singers from the US of A! Quite a different experience to Christ Church, but a very positive one indeed! :)
- Blue Mountains - freezing and raining on day 1 meant it was time to crank up the fire, get out the tea & chocolate, and put on a dvd....'The Notebook' of course! Day two brought much better weather and thus a stroll through the mountains around the 3 sisters... heres a pic of one of the lovely waterfalls we came across..- TC Treestump - an enjoyable though challenging 5 days away with the kids i lead and the team i lead with, hearing great talks from Daniel, getting stuck into what Jesus has to say in the Sermon on the Mount, giving kids the chance to ask big questions and experience Christain fellowship, and giving them some fun and crazy activities along the way. Though there were some hard times this week, God is good and works in ways we can never fathom, its awesome to be a part of His work in this world and to see kids grow in relationship with Him!

Photo Fun Times

2007-07-05T16:18:00.000+10:00

Last saturday I had the privilege of witnessing Tim and Shona's wedding. It was absolutely beautiful! Here is a pic of the happy couple.. Congratulations guys!

In other news, JT & I have embraced the freedom of holidays with a little photography... heres a few pics that resulted...

2007-06-28T21:24:00.000+10:00

"I will sing of the Lord's great love for ever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.
I will declare that your love stands firm for ever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
You said, 'I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, 'I will establish your line for ever and make your throne firm through all generations.'"
The heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.... O Lord God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O Lord, and your faithfulness surrounds you. ...
The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it. ...
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you."

These are some verses which we read from Psalm 89 in Bible study on tuesday night. My goodness - what reasons for praise our Lord!!

I am studying a PTC Intro to the Bible course at the moment and as I read over more and more of the OT I cant help but be struck by God's faithfulness amongst our unfaithfulness to Him! It is amazing, and absolutely beautiful in the most purest of ways! This is love. This is grace. Like none other we will ever know!

As this Psalm reminds us that God is not only faithful to His people but He is also in control, I would like to ask for your partnership in keeping the upcoming camps that Christ Church is running over the holidays in your prayers.
There are 3 camps coming up - House Party (10-11), Getaway (yr 12), and Treestump (7-9).
If you are willing and able, could you please pray for the following:
- the kids coming, to keep them safe and healthy, to be encouraged and challenged, and most importantly to be brought into a closer relationship with Jesus (or in some cases, coming to knowHim for the first time)
- for there to be a good vibe on each camp, one of unity in Christ, an attitude of service and embracing what we are there for and what we get to do
- for leaders as we lead these kids
- for me and the other 3 ladies cooking on HP! (my first time - should be fun!)
- for the speakers (Craig, Scott, and Foxie)

Thank you, your prayers are greatly appreciated!

I am off on the first camp on saturday arvo! Looking forward to it!
What an amazing privilege it is to have camps like these and be apart of God's work in this world!

Exit the King - Enter Geoffrey Rush!

2007-06-23T15:10:00.000+10:00

What do Shine, Pirates of the Caribbean, Candy, Lantana, Finding Nemo, Shakespeare in Love, Ned Kelly, Munich, Intollerable Cruelty, and the play we saw on wednesday night, all have in common?

One man: Geoffrey Rush.

We headed to the funky little theatre that is Belvoir St to see the play 'Exit the King' starring the famous actor and directed by the one and only Neil Armfield. I was incredibly excited...and was not at all let down by Rush's performance. In fact, the show exceeded all possible expectations...

There were a million great quotes that I am now wishing I could remember as it got some thoughts flowing about the world's views on life and death, living for yourself/revolving life around yourself, redemption, hope, and highlighted, in my opinion, the need for our saviour Jesus! As Rush's character refuses to give into the fact that he is dying, he believes he is in control of when he can die, that it should be and is completely up to him, that the world, when he does die, should remember him and that without him it may as well no longer exist either... but he also eventually begins to question the purpose of being born if one only dies.... so many interesting ideas - being as absurdist play i guess we'd kinda expect that - but it was interesting to see how the idea of life - and death - are hopeless without the hope of life offered in Jesus...

The set was funky. There were some funny lines. We had great seats. Geoffrey Rush stood right next to me! And some rather entertaining work by Rush - ive decided that man is a brilliant actor and is very good at working with his hands and has an amazing stage presence.

...There is so much more that should be said about this production - it was brilliant for so many reasons - but i feel like my words would not bring it justice at this point...perhaps i will post more about it later...

Favourite Things...

2007-06-17T16:42:00.000+10:00

I thought Id just share an image of one of my highlights of the last couple of weeks....Ive always enjoyed the reading in a small/arty/cosy cafe thing, but have been doing a lot more of it recently, and I gotta say, im lovin it! Chillin in a coffee shop, rain outside, Bible and so many good books to read i dont know where to start stacked in front of me, all along with the best company one could ask for...mm these are good times...

Scripture Picture

2007-06-13T12:38:00.000+10:00

I havent taken as many photos as I would have liked recently.
I miss it.
So here are a couple i just took of the clear crisp winter day we have today, one of those days that looks absolutely beautiful.....but when you go out in it you realise is also absolutely freezing!!
Anyway, enjoy...
And if you like taking photos, let me know and ill go take some with you!
Meanwhile, I took my first ever scripture class today.
I was so nervous - for 3 reasons:
- I got the material last night so hadnt read anything til this morning!
- I have never taught this age group -yr 4 kids - im used to high school or k-2, so i wasnt really sure what to expect.
- My first week ever of scripture classes was last week when i was just helping, taking a class is a little different!

BUT
It was great!!
I was once again humbled and reminded that i dont actually need to worry so much about these things, God is in control.
What a great way to spend a morning - teaching kids about the love of God, and God who wants to know them and has made Himself known to us.
I enjoyed it and it was a good experience. And i think the kids learnt something too! yay!
I feel like I can handle anything this day throws at me now that Ive tackled a bunch of yr 4 kids!

Joy

2007-06-09T11:45:00.000+10:00

So after a couple of epic posts which are probably just too long for people to bother reading, I thought I would simply let you know what things brought me joy over this last week...

1. JT.
Ok, so really thats all I need to say. But I will add that he rocks muchly and that God is very good for blessing me with him!2. NJ - the other man in my life...
This is the one yr old I nanny on tuesdays. After a break of 3 weeks while he was away with his family, we're back and better than ever... He seemed to remember me (ie was happy to see me!) and is loving his new favourite skill of crawling! Oh how this child brings me joy. His little smile and giggle are just so contagious!3. Helping with Scripture at St Ives Primary
This was the first week I had done it, and though some of the kids were a bit of a handful, its just such a joy to see some of them engaging with the story and remembering what they learn about Jesus! It was extremely humbling being reminded that God is at work in kids as young as 4 and 5 yrs old. Yes, we far too often put limits on God, when in fact He is utterly limitless and able to do things completely beyond our imagination!
"Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit." Psalm 147:8

4. Being tucked up inside hearing the rain and wind outside!
I love that feeling, especially when you are in a nice warm bed! But what was coolest last night as the rain tumbled down was remembering that while this weather was absolutely crazy, God was completely in control of it! Just awesome!

Praise God for the many and wonderful ways He blesses us every day!

Bombshells

2007-06-06T11:46:00.000+10:00

So the show I was working on at Hunters Hill Theatre, Bombshells, finished on saturday. I was one of the lighting operators for the show - something I havent really done before, but it was such a great experience! Being backstage and sitting in the biobox above the audience each show; getting to know the cast (and the way each of them work - yes dealing with actors can be a challenge!); successfully getting through each show without a hitch; being apart of a created work of art- contributing the to atmosphere and experience undertaken by each audience member; seeing the different reactions of each different audience (this helps make the night more interesting once you've seen the play about 20 times!); and generally seeing the whole thing come together from start to finish!

The show did make me think about a lot of things though.
One night I found myself sitting up in the box looking down on the audience and the stage before me, wondering why I enjoy this, why each of us cast and crew members choose to be apart of this, and why people enjoy going to the theatre.
Is it because all of us enjoy escapism now and then?
This was the only reason i could come up with really, which was a little depressing considering i'm meant to love this field and be looking for employment in it.
Is it bad to have something entirely based around escapism? I dont think that motivates me to work on a production...

Of course, escapism isnt really the only reason theatre exists. It is an art form, a form of expression, an outlet of creativity.
I am apart of it because it involves creating, creating a new world, and through that, challenging people to think about different areas of life and art in a way they perhaps hadnt previously...

but if thats why i am involved in theatre production, why do i actually enjoy going to the theatre?
Of course, there is a place for just enjoying it and not thinkg about why, but this is one of the things i thought about when passing the two hours of playing with the lighting board.

Further thoughts were inspired by the play itself. Bombshells is about 6 women - a mother &house wife in her 40s obsessed with pleasing everybody yet feeling depressed and struggling with the everyday challenges of being a wife and mother; an elderly woman who in explaining her love for cacti expresses the realities of love, how people change, how they need nurturing, etc, and the way her husband left her for another woman, yet she remains pained yearning for his return; a teenage school girl entering a school talent quest, obsessed with being the best; a bride about to wed realising she actually doesnt love the groom, all she ever wanted was to wear the dress; a widow who has resigned herself to her everyday life, comparitively boring to the rest of the world, uninteresting because she is alone, lost because she is now one not too, but then made to feel alive again by a encounter with a younger man; and a cabaret singer, who has delt with loss of possessions, her husband leaving her, substance abuse, criticism by the media, and finds comfort in fame and shopping.
These are the women of Bombshells.

This play, obviosuly more suitable for a female audience, got a lot of laughs. And yes, i found some of it funny, there are some good lines in there and some of those actresses have some great facial expressions or definitely know how to deliver a line.
But when you stop and think about what you are laughing at, you realise that most people in the audience are laughing cos they recognise a truth in the sadness presented on stage, a truth cos they can identify with it in their own lives, and thus is makes them kinda nervous, but laugh cos its i guess just a part of life for everyone...

One of the things the play made me think about, therefore, was what I let myself be defined by.

One character says she cannot live without her husband - "Barry dies, Im dying too!" And we get a similar vibe from 2 other characters. Now I know people often say they cannot imagine life without their partner. Thats ok, i can relate to that, its fair enough! What is worrying here is that these women arent just saying that, they are saying they are their life, without them they have no reason to live, without them there is no life.
What a feeling of hopelessness! Yet, i guess, the way a number of people in this world think.

On a related note, the bride character, Teresa, admits that her desire to marry is to wear the dress, be saved from the "endless ocean of singlehood" and possess the title of 'wife' - "I'm going to be somebody's wife! Somebody! Anybody! A wife!" As soon as she says 'I do' she regrets it.
What is scary about this is how many girls out there actually do get caught up in these things, the dress, the wedding day, the fact that they are going to be married, rather than who they are marrying and why.

Of course, I am interpreting this play from a Christain perspective, knowing the beauty of marriage as a gift from God, the way he has created us for, but also a covenant not to be entered into lightly.

Now dont get me wrong, anyone who knows me well will know im a romantic. But that doesnt mean i am completely unaware of the danger of getting caught up in the romance. And the danger of defining yourself by the fact that you are no longer single, etc.
As i said, it made me think about what i define myself by. I am a Christain. That is who i am. Whether I am married or single, a mother, working in theatre, HR or film, that is who i am first and foremost. I hope and pray I can maintain that perspective.
While i dream of one day marrying and becoming a mother, and know that to a certain extent you can definitely describe yourself by those things cos they are beautiful God given blessings, I do not want that to overtake who I am in Christ.

I apologise for the length of this post... but i do hope it makes sense too... if there are any thoughts or questions please feel free to comment! Interested to hear your thoughts on theatre and these other issues...

Titus and Teaching

2007-05-30T22:16:00.000+10:00

Last night at Bible study we started a series on the book of Titus.
I have Bible study with the group of people I lead at our youth group with, so the words of Paul to Titus speak strongly to us. Why? Because like all leaders in the church, we have been entrusted with God's work.
God has been good enough to let us in on the amazing work of bringing others to know and love Him and to live lives worthy of that calling!
And this is what Paul says is the only way to carry out this task...

"Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless - not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to much wine, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it."

hmm...how do you hold up to that description?
I expect for each of us sitting on our comfy little couches in our leaders warm and welcoming house amongst good friends, these words spoke to us slightly differently, each with our own thing to work on. I know what they said to me. What do they say to you?
What a list - or rather, a life - to strive for!
My favourite part of that passage was the words "one who loves what is good". Surely, if we are loving what is good how can the bad be given a door into our actions and attitudes?!

The words "hold firmly to the trustworthy message" and "by sound doctrine" also made me think.
I certainly hope this is what I (and my fellow leaders) are holding to each week as we come to teach these kids!
But it made me think about how we package this message.
On friday evening I had a conversation with a man from another church in sydney. A man who's kids go to youth group at his church, but knowing that there are 'bigger and better' youth groups out there they often want to visit the other for a week or two. What do we do with that? The group is small and possibly not meeting the needs of the boy who is the only one of his age in the group. But what about what the boy can give to the group? What about the discouragement that comes to the leaders and fellow members of the group when they are one member down? Or rather, the encouragement when he chooses to join them rather than have a possibly more enjoyable night with more mates at the other group?
One of the constant challenges of running a youth group is meeting these kids where they're at. Attracting kids and keeping them committed and interested.
There is a certain amount of responsibility of the kid's behalf - yes, they gotta invite their friends, yes, they gotta persist when times get tough. Then of course, these kids are putting their reputations on the line when they ask their friends along, so we as leaders gotta make sure it is worth it too, right?

But all this, ALL this, is totally and utterly pointless if we are not teaching sound doctrine; if we become so concerned with how to entertain, attract, keep these kids that the truth we are there to teach becomes secondary to our purpose (or at least appears that way in the reason and way the kids are responding).

I say it is a constant struggle to find this balance. But balance is key, cos we cannot lose sight of why we are there. We have been entrusted with God's work. This is why Paul commands us to be above reproach in all areas of our lives - the kids are learning from us, they are watching, they are copying - but above all they are learning a message of truth - one we must not compromise!

If you are a leader in your church please think about how you are going with these things Pauls raises.
And if you are at all the praying kind, please pray that at CCSI we will be faithful in our teaching!

Also, If you are involved in youth ministry at your church and have a specific prayer point in need of bringing before our loving and merciful Father, please feel free to leave these in the comments, Id love to pray for you!

God bless,
CJG

First Aboriginal language Bible!

2007-05-23T11:20:00.000+10:00

"The first complete Bible translation in an Australian Aboriginal language ever was launched in the Top End this month after a staggering 27 years in translation."

Praise God!
He is a God of all nations, tribes and languages, lets praise Him for this new translation and pray for those who will be distributing it, teaching from it, and reading it.

Tribute to Dylan

2007-05-16T16:36:00.000+10:00

This is a photo of a painting of Bob Dylan I have been working on for a few weeks now. There are still a few bits to do on it, but i thought id post it anyway.

Dylan is one of my Dad's favourite musicians.
Ok, so the famous singer/songwriter didnt have the best voice in the world, but man, could this guy write poetry!!
so there it is, my tribute to Dylan!

A Violent Grace

2007-05-15T18:25:00.000+10:00

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.
Ephesians 1:7-8

Today I read an explanation of the term 'a violent grace' which I thought spoke so clearly and beautifully of how as Christains we can come to see something as horrible as blood shed with such a glorious light!

"Yes, bloodshed is the epitome of violence. But for you and me, blood is also the costly guarantee of a most extravagant gift of grace."

Michael card continues with such a wonderfully ironic statement so true to the Christain faith, to the beauty of forgiveness...

"if you have let His blood stain you, you will be as white as snow."

Graduation!

2007-05-01T17:56:00.000+10:00

I had my university graduation today!

Thats right, I can finally say 'It is finished' - I got the framed piece of paper to prove it!

It was a bit weird being back at Uni after all this time, but turned out to be a good morning, and actually much more exciting than I expected!

I'm a graduate - I have a degree - thats so cool!!

2007-04-29T16:58:00.000+10:00

"Why wait any longer for the rest of your life to start happening dear?"
- The Guild League

I have to say this line rings home quite loudly right now! As many of you know I am currently in the process of finding employment. I mentioned about a month ago how I had made some promising contacts at a TV shoot - and I am pleased to announce that they have proved to be just that! Heres the story...

1. Hunters Hill Theatre
Here I will be taking the role of Lighting Operator. This is such a cute little theatre is a great little location with some lovely people involved and keen to have me on board!

2. Wesley Institute.
Many of you would probably know Wesley as a charity or the college... well, the college is putting on a production of Fiddler on the Roof later this year and as of friday night I am going to be working on this production as an assistant to the set designer! While I dont know all the details of the role, this is a particularly exciting opportunitiy as set design/construction has always been my passion in the theatre and this was what i wanted to get into! Praise God I say! He is so faithful to provide! It is such an answer to prayer to have this chance to see if this is where I actually want to be! And its great just to continue building experience as this industry seems to be all about getting in there, getting involved, and making contacts!

If you have ever seen the film A lot like Love you will remember the character played by Ashton Kutcher - a guy falling in love but believing he needed to 'get his ducks in a row' in order to then be able to settle down and get on with life. After relationship after relationship fails and his business also goes pear shaped, he finds himself slightly lost. His brother so rightly points out to him, however, that this is his life, right now, right here - it isnt going to wait for him to get back on track, so he better start making the most of it!
How true is that?!

I think we can often fall into the trap of thinking this way too - this is the plan i have for my life - finish uni, get this job, get married then, etc etc.... reality can often prove to be quite different! And thats ok, cos thats just life!

This year has definitely panned out very differently to what I expected it to be - but thats ok, it has still being filled with many great experiences - and bad ones too for that matter - learning through all and realising -this is life, right now!

I may not have a job set out for me, but I have been blessed with these opportunities to experience something I greatly enjoy and see where that can take me; and in the meantime I have a bit of extra time too, time i can use to start getting stuck into the Bible further with some PTC courses, time to further a number of relationships, time to paint, time to serve God in a number of ways, and to grow in love and knowledge of our Lord - because this is the stuff of life, so why wait any longer for the rest of my life to start happening - this is it!
And bring it on I say!!

Praise God for these opportunities, for these answers to prayer, and for the chance to make the most of this stage of life! (And pray that I might be able to do that everyday!)

How about you post a comment here and let me know what I can praise God in your life?Meanwhile, just cos I love photos, here's another one from the other day...Hows this for a picnic spot?!

Lets have some interactive blogging - whats your favourite picnic spot??

The Stuff of life...

2007-04-20T16:34:00.000+10:00

The last couple of days have been awesome. JT finally got a break from college so we decided to make the most of it. And lets just say, what a blessing this time has been! A day spent at Kiama enjoying time in God's beautiful creation and His word, takin a few snaps, soaking up some sun and of course, eating a lot...
And a day of R&R in the lovely city of sydney...picnics, "300" and "Paris Jet'aime", photos, and once again, food...mmm...

I wont go into all the details now, however, as I am now sick with a cold (possibly flu, though I hope not) and am about to head to my church houseparty! (woohoo!), so for now I will leave you with some pics of the last few days...

Praise God for days like this, for His word, and His creation.
Praise God for further developments with work opportunities (will update post HP).
And please pray for this weekend away - what an blessing to spend time with brothers and sisters, enjoying fellowship and getting stuck into what God has to say on Relationships! Only hope I will be well enough to make the most of it!!
See y'all soon!

'It is finished'

2007-04-07T12:23:00.000+10:00

This Good Friday was in fact , for a number of reasons, a very good friday indeed.
In the morning I headed to JT's church for the Good Friday service, and it was a very encouraging experience. It was great to experience a smaller church community after being apart of such a large one for such a long time. The numbers may be small, but their heart & love for our Lord certainly isnt! It was great to see Josh in action up the front and to see the support and encouragement he recieved from members of the congregation. As I shared in communion with a bunch of people Id never met it was so encouraging to remember how we are united in Christ.
Furthermore, we were presented with a brilliant sermon. As we read the words of John 18 & 19, we focused on 3 simple yet hugely significant words of Jesus - "It is finished".

At the moment when Jesus breathed his last up on that cross His purpose on this earth was fulfilled, His mission completed. Completed. Finished. That means that all sin of the world was dealt with. It does not still need to be dealt with, it was faithfully and effectively dealt with in one death, the death of Jesus. If that isnt reason to praise God now and forever, I dont know what is!

I hope and pray you all had an enjoyable good friday and have the same for the rest of easter, but that mostly you will remember the significance of these days - that it is finished and that life and hope are offered!

Here are the words to the song 'Kneeling' by Garage Hymnal to help you reflect on the bitter sweet truth of the cross and the glory of the resurrection...

Kneeling in that garden, death before Him
From His brow the sweat dripped crimson red
And in that place He felt so God forsaken
Yet "Father not my will but Yours," He said
And with that kiss of death He met betrayal
And trial for these crimes He did not do
But willingly He suffered there in silence
Its eternal worth outweighed the pain He knew

The crowd cried for a murderer "release him"
Replaced him with this man of innocence
But still His worthy plea remained unspoken
At last my pure Lord was sentenced death
And walking up that hill His heart was broken
With torture such my body never knew
But still He kept on walking right towards
The pain that sealed the gift for me and you

Those nails that drove into His hands of freedom
That locked Him to the cross of pain He knew
Were crafted by the sins I have committed
The punishment for all that I would do
And how His body on that cross was broken
That crown of thorns that pierced His head so pure
In those dying breaths He breathed forgiveness
The sting of death at last would meet its cure.

Darkness fell upon the land for hours
And mocking insults all around Him flew
Until at last His voice cried up in anguish
The curtain in the temple ripped in two
And limp His body hung for my salvation
And in a grave so cold they laid His head
But when they did return they found Him risen
Returned to life again just as He said

painting fun times!

2007-04-05T14:51:00.000+10:00

one of the good things about this time off in between jobs is the ability to spend more time on my art. I gotta say I am very grateful of the way JT has encouraged me to do this.

In the past I have stuck to pencil drawing, and while I still love this and have been making the effort to do more of that lately too, I have recently decided to experiment more with painting! Oh the joy of having a blank cavas before you!

I havent got anything very exciting to show you yet - just a 'work in progress' image - but I am enjoying the feeling of painting rather than caring too much about the final result - enjoying the freedom & relaxation of having a paint brush in hand!
If or when I create something more worthwhile of sharing I shall post it asap. Keep me to this - I want to make it happen!

In the meantime...im off to listen to some tunes and let the paint flow!

Take my will, and make it thine

2007-03-30T21:45:00.000+10:00

Praise God for the priviledge of being apart of His work in this world! I just got home from leading the bunch of yr7 girls i lead every friday night. They are crazy in a way that only a bunch of yr7 girls can be, but they are also (slowly) growing in spiritual maturity, which is very exciting to see!
Anyway, let me share with you some of what we studied tonight....

In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus cries out these words to the Father

"Yet not as I will, but as you will."

A sentence that should not only change my life and yours, but the entire world. So much is at stake here. If Jesus is to give into his human desire here, then we have no hope of ever winning. Dont you see, if Jesus did as we seem to do every single day and gave into his human desire then we would have no hope at all. Praise God that He did not and instead understood the need to do the will of the Father. If only we could truely do the same!

Here is what Michael Card says on the subject in his book 'A Violent Grace':
"When you think about it, every temptation we face gets it power from our desire to say yes to ourselves - to our own rights, wants, and needs - and no to God. The Bible's word for that response is disobedience. It's a pattern that began with Adam and Eve. Surely the serpant deceived them when he tempted them to taste the forbidden fruit, just as Satan often deceives us in our moments of testing. But deception is just the bait. The trap is always sprung by a clear choice to disobey God - to say "Not thy will, but mine be done."At Gethsemane, although Satan has done his best to confuse and deceive Him, Jesus chooses painful obedience. If choice is one side of the coin in overcoming temptation, then cost is the other. To make a choice is to slay the alternative. "Life is in the blood," declares the law (Leviticus 17:11, 14; Deuteronomy 12:23), and every dark drop that trickles down Jesus' cheek is proof of what the Savior is willing to pay for you and me.
Not my will, but thine be done
.He is willing to lose all so that we can win all."

Yes, Jesus (understandably) does not want to die. But he is obedient to the will of the Father. And we are saved as a result.What other response could we have to this but to do the same?!?!

Jesus prays 'not my will but yours be done". I dont know about you but I think I should be praying this every single day.

At the risk of making this post extremely long, let me share with you something else... The absolutely wonderful JT gave me the Garage Hymnal cd last week and I have to share with you the lyrics of the title track, 'Take My Life'. On the subject of living each day for the will of the Father - rather than my own will - this song is a beautiful expression of that attitude and a wonderful reminder of that prayer.

Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee
Take my moments and my days
Let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee

Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love
Take my feet, and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee
Take my love, my Lord I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee
Ever, only, all for Thee

Take my silver and my gold
Not a mite would I withhold
Take my intellect and use
Every power as You will choose

Take my will, and make it thine
It shall be no longer mine
Take my heart, it is thine own
It shall be Thy royal throne

Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love
Take my feet, and let them be
Swift and beautiful for TheeTake my love, my Lord I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee Ever, only, all for Thee

Answer to Prayer

2007-03-22T11:56:00.000+11:00

So I said Id tell you about last thursday, sorry its taken me a while to get there, but heres the story...

Begining of last week i was feeling a little more lost and depressed than usual, feeling a little lack of purpose with my days as i continued on through limbo land.

Anyway, through a random connection i ended up with an unpaid job on a film shoot (more specifically, a tv pilot). Unsure initially whehter to bother taking this opportunity i eventually got into gear realising there wasnt a lot to loose - something to fill in my day with, and always good getting more experience in the field to add to the resume.

But God was good and it turned out to be so much more than that.

Firstly before the day I managed to be faithfully reminded by the Spirit of the conviction I had in reading Acts over the last few weeks and the purpose I am to serve. The book of Acts so clearly exemplifies our purpose in this life - basically faithfully living each day for the Lord to bring glory and honour to Him while also furthering His kingdom. In reading it i was convicted that this is what I am to do with every day of my life regardless of whether I am a student, unemployed, or working in my dream job.
I was also reminded of one of the key reasons why I wanted to get into film + theatre in the first place. Aside from my love for these arts, I recognise the need for Christains in these industries.
And thus, convicted by these truths, I was excited about the opportunity that lay ahead for me on the set on thursday. Having absolutely no idea what sort of people I would be working with or what we were working on, I was determined to be a light amongst them and work hard for the Lord.

Now, funnily enough, the majority of the crew and our cast member all turned out to be Christains.
It was great!
God is amazing in the way He works. Not only to bless me with work in those circumstances once again, but also to ensure I was convicted of those things before I headed out there, because regardless of whether those I worked with on thursday were Believers, that will not always be the situation, and thus I need to ensure I maintain that conviction and desire to serve that purpose as God blesses me with work I enjoy.

So despite a lot of standing around waiting and the 12hr day, I not only enjoyed the day, but the crew and cast were lovely people, very interesting to talk to, and easy to work with.

Furthermore - and the greatest answer to prayer here - I made a few contacts and am pretty likely to get some work through them throughout this year!

I love it! God answers prayer and knows exactly the best way to do it! What a humbling experience!

Praise God for the answer to prayer!
Please pray that these opportunities come to light.

And if a show called 'Chefs Table' ever comes on TV, please watch it and look out for my name in the credits of the pilot!

God has been very good to me in other areas of my life recently...but thats for another post methinks... ;)

Cornflakes

2007-03-17T18:37:00.000+11:00

So its been a hectic week. This thursday was long but great - an answer to prayer and shining of God's blessing in many ways. BUT I wont share about that now, im too tired to explain properly.

What I will do instead is let you know of a new band I was introduced to last night - the guild league
JT and I and a few others headed to a little pub in Surry Hills for a gig by some people we'd never heard of before.
We had no idea what to expect...
but it proved to be a worthwhile venture and I came away with one of their cds...i gotta say they're pretty great

am lovin their sound...but mostly their lyrics...
And speaking of lyrics, their set was finished off by the poetry reading to top all poetry readings (well, public ones anyway...)!

So, for a taste of the new and exciting, this little band from melbourne, which was thoroughly enjoyed last night, here are the lyrics to "Cornflakes" on their album "private transport'...Enjoy!

sugar on cereal.
sunlight sifts down through late autumn leaves to the crunchy brown ground.
i hold my arm like an 'L' with your hand at the corner
the autumn air is freezing and your hands aren't much warmer.
but if you smile at me like that again i think i'll burst with happiness.
you make me all toungue-tied girl but you know that by now....i guess.
breakfast and beverages out of the breeze.
soak in the sunlight that's as scarce as the green trees.
stare up at flightpaths we'd like to be on till evening turns all the jetstreams to neon.
come on and tell me you love me one more time.
i'm going to burst with happiness.
my dreams are tied to you my girl but you know that by now.
and if you didnt know somehow then you know now....i guess.

Be Prepared!

2007-03-09T15:56:00.000+11:00

When it comes time to die, make sure that all you have to do is die.

- Jim Elliot

Wise, wise words from this faithful servant of Christ.
Not much more to be said.

Raido Star?!

2007-03-08T12:11:00.000+11:00

My Dad was on the radio the other day! And I'd just like to say I am very proud of him!
Ok, so it was AM and probably very few people heard the interview, but I was impressed!

If you have any interest in mental health issues, then you can either hear the interview or check out the transcript here!

The issue being discussed revolves around the (potential) side effects of a particular drug used by people suffering from schizophrenia and bipolar, and i guess also the responsibility of the pharmaceutical companies.

Listening to the interview though just reinforced to me how often the media sensationalise. I was frustrated by the journalists comments, not only cos it was against what my dad was saying, but because it was entirely reliant on his unresearched opinion rather than fact.
Why try to report an issue and attempt to persuade an audience when you just dont know all the ins and outs of the story?!
Or perhaps more importantly, why do we get sucked into it?!

Rant aside, my dad was on the radio and did a good job....how cool is that?!

ok, so im the proud daughter, just humour me here...

Limbo Land

2007-03-04T21:13:00.000+11:00

As most people I know return to uni or college to continue studies, I remain in the world of limbo, looking for jobs. The world of limbo is a funny thing. A mix between enjoying the holiday yet at having this constant feeling of needing to get a job sorted out...

In limbo land one learns a few things. Patience is one. And enjoying and being thankful for the present is another. Embracing life where its at. At a time when its so easy to reflect on whats been or to wish for things to come, there is definately a place for enjoying this world of limbo for what it is, for it could just as easily disappear before I have the chance to make the most of it!

Well, this weekend certainly saw some good times enjoying the moment and the time I have....to be summed up with a few words and a picture...
engagement party picnic style
beautiful sunny day
lovely little beach
good food
good company

stroll across the bridge
markets
live music
wine tasting
The Rocks....
guitar
strawberries and chocolate...
need I say more?!

Finally, at times limbo land can leave one feeling slightly lost. Well, this afternoon I discovered therapy in the form of decorating! After moving house a year ago, I finally got around to hanging photos in my room - sooo much fun!!
Take a look at what resulted...

Ok, so you might not be as excited as I am, but the room has a whole different feel...
Dont know if id go as far as say the change is as good as a holiday...but almost...
Oh photos are fun!

2007-02-27T10:43:00.000+11:00

Forgiveness.

Such a beautiful thing.
Though its beauty perhaps isnt always recognised in its entirety.

As a Christain, this word is epitomised in the love and grace shown to us by Jesus on the cross. Yes, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Continually attempting to run life our own way we deserve nothing. God pushes aside what we deserve however and instead offers us new life with Him.
This is forgiveness at its greatest! Amazing and beautiful. Pure and true.

As people who follow the Lord, then, we are called to walk as Jesus did, and as part of that, forgive as the Lord forgave us. Only fair I should think?! Yet why do we struggle with it so much?

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Col 3:13-14
and
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Col 3:15

Love others. Forgive, because we have no right to hold grudges or judge if God has forgiven us! And let peace, not hate or anger or bitterness, rule your hearts.

Big call? Perhaps. Yet entirely justified when we understand the fullness of what God has done for us.

The widows as their story is told in Through Gates of Splendor demonstrate this love and forgiveness at a time when so many of us would struggle to do so.

While the prayers for many were for these women who had lost their husbands, these women prayed for those who killed them that they may come to know the Lord! - “The prayers of the widows themselves are for the Aucas. We look forward to the day when these savages will join us in Christian praise.” (p.189)

While many would not only understand if the women chose to return to the States after this, let alone expect it, the women desired nothing but these people to know God and therefore stayed to continue the work their husbands started - “Plans were promptly formulated for continuing the work of the martyrs…. Revenge? The thought never crossed the mind of one of wives or other missionaries.” (p.189-190)

The sight when bodies of the five men were found would have been devastating. Each speared to death.
But the hope of these women was that just as their husbands were struck with the lances, those who killed them would be struck with His Word. - “give the Aucas, instead of fierce hearts, soft hearts. Stick their hearts, Lord, as with a lance. They stuck our friends, but You can stick them with Your Word, so that they will listen, and believe.” (p.191)

What a beautiful example of forgiving as the Lord forgave us!

The Power of Scripture

2007-02-25T15:40:00.000+11:00

When Jesus was tempted in the desert (Matt 4:1-11) He faithfully responded each time by quoting words from the Old Testament scriptures. Every time the Devil had a question or a challenge for Him, He brought to mind words that kept him alert and focused; words that reminded him how to live for God wholeheartedly rather than give in to the temptation brought before him.

It seems though that we forget this technique is not just reserved for the Son of God! We too can - and should - memorise, quote, and dwell on the Word of God, not just in fighting temptation, but in living out the everyday!
How many times a day does something arise that would be much easier faced if we just remembered and trusted His word!?! Countless!!

This is something we see Jesus doing and we should not hesitate to follow his example!

As the widows of the five missionaries killed in Equador were learning of the murder of their husbands Olive Fleming definately didnt hesitate to follow Jesus' example!

"Olive Fleming recalled the verses that God had impressed on her mind that mroning: 'For we know tht if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.' He who has prepared us for this very thing is God... 'Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord.'" (p.185)

Flying over the site where her husband was buried in the jungle by the river, a women who would have every reason to feel anger, felt comfort in her pain as she turned to the Words of the Lord knowing they were faithful and true.
And as that Word is living and active, what strength this gave her and the other women!

I personally was greatly encouraged to read this is Through Gates of Splendor.

Why do I not do the same more regularly?! Thats gotta change!

afterall, this would help greatly with 'setting minds on things above, not on earthly things', would it not!?!

Having Perspective

2007-02-19T21:39:00.000+11:00

Continuing the journey of 'Through Gates of Splendour'

It took a couple of days to confirm the death of the 5 missionaries. But their wives suspected it from the minute they failed to radio in on time.

Just imagine it. Waiting by that radio wishing, praying, that the voice of the man you loved would soon be heard, laughing off the fact that he and the others lost track of time as they got to know their new neighbours better.
But of course eventually realising this was never going to be the case.

As the mens bodies were found one by one, the women waited. And were eventually met with the news that all 5 men had been killed by the Auca people who just two days before had spent all day socialising with them at their camp site.

I dont know about you, but I think that wait would have been painful. Of course the women knew the risk involved in their husbands' mission, and they knew and supported their purpose, but what really prepares you for news like this?!

Well, I was amazed reading the account of these last few days in the pages of 'Through Gates of Splendour'. Such faith and trust in their Lord at such an uncertain and scary time.

Here are some of the things recorded in those pages:

"As I came face to face with the news of Roj's death, my heart was filled with praise. He was worthy of his home-going." (p.180) - Knowing and trusting these men had faith in Jesus and that their work for Him had not been in vain, these women saw no other solution but to praise God for the opportunities the men had faced and be thankful that no doubt their Father would welcome home His good and faithful servants.

"To the world at large this was a sad waste of five young lives. But God has His plan and purpose in all things. There were those whose lives were cahnged by what happened on Palm Beach." (p.188) - What amazing perspective these women had! Something we should all aspire to!
They knew the work their husbands had done was for a good cause, was the most important thing they could ever do with their lives, and that all was in the hands of the one they were working for, so why not trust Him?!

There is more to be said about the response of these women to the death of their husbands. But for now, I will leave you with those words which I found greatly encouraging.

Trust in Him, as these women have before us!

Proud Citizen of Sydney!

2007-02-15T13:12:00.000+11:00

Last night I finally got into the city with my camera. Blessed with a beautiful night and great company, I got snap happy in this very beautiful city! Here are a few of the pics, some more will be on flickr.

This one was taken at darling harbour...a rose left crushed and forgotten under the bridge...

Motivation

2007-02-13T17:36:00.000+11:00

Over the next few posts I plan to share with you some further quotations from the book 'Through Gates of Splendor' (which tells the story of 5 missionaries who died doing the work of their Lord in Ecuador in the 1950s).

I finished the book today and right now there are too many thoughts running through my mind to share right now. But lets just say this has been the most worthwhile read ever. It is an amazing story, encouraging, humbling, and full of words which can only spur you on in sharing the gospel.

Here are a few paragraphs where the motivation of the men to go into Auca territory is explained:

- "Each of us knew when we married our husbands that there would never be any question about who came first - God and His work held first place in each life. It was the condition of true discipleship; it became devastatingly meaningful now.
It was a time for soul-searching, a time for counting the possible cost. Was it the thrill of adventure that drew our husbands on? No. Their letters and journals make it abundantly clear that these men did not go out as some men go out to shoot a lion or climb a mountain. Their compulsion was from a different source. Each had made a personal transaction with God, recognising that he belonged to God, first of all by creation, and secondly by redemption through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ. This double claim on his life settled once and for all the question of allegiance. It was not a matter of striving to follow the example of a great Teacher. To conform to the perfect life of Jesus was impossible for a human being. To these men, Jesus Christ was God, and had actually taken upon Himself human form, in order that He might die, and, by His death, provide not only escape from the punishment which their sin merited, but also a new kind of life, eternal both in length and in quality. This meant simply that Christ was to be obeyed, and more than that, that He would provide the power to obey. The point of decision had been reached. God's command "Go ye, and preach the gospel to every creature" was the categorical imperative. The question of personal safety was wholly irrelevant.

On Sunday afternoon...Nate Saintsat at his typewriter to tell the world why they were going - just in case. In speaking these words he spoke for all: 'As we weigh the future and seek the will of God, does it seem right that we should hazard our lives for just a few savages?... May we be moved with compassion as our Lord was. May we shed tears of repentance for these we have failed to bring out of darkness. ... May God give us a new vision of His will concerning the lost and our responsibility.

"If God would grant us the vision, the word sacrifice would disappear from our lips and thoughts; we would hate the things that seem now so dear to us; our lives would suddenly be too short, we would despise time-robbing distractions and charge the enemy with all our energies in the name of Christ."

What motivated these men to enter the territory of a tribe known to the world as killers? Knowing the great risk to their lives, these men approached this act as a willing sacrifice...yet recognised it was nothing of a sacrifice compared to that given by our gracious God. They desired to serve God wholeheartedly with their lives. And they desired everyone to have the chance to know His Son...even this tribe everyone else was afraid to go near.

While not all of us will be called to such a location, I think the compassion and conviction shown by these men - men who were no different nor more perfect than any of us - is something to be encouraged by, but perhaps more importantly, something to strive for in our own lives.

Be motivated by that which motivated these men and find that desire to seek and save the lost.

'Stranger Than Fiction'

2007-02-09T16:41:00.000+11:00

I have always thought Emma Thompson was a great actress. She can pull off anything from comedy to tragedy. Shes what I like to call a 'real actress.'

And now my opinion of her has simply skyrocketed to brilliant having just seen the new release 'Stranger Than Fiction'.

When I saw the preview for this film I was immediately hocked. Intriguing concept and impressive cast.
Well, I saw it yesterday and lets just say I was thoroughly impressed! It exceeded my expectations.

I cant put a finger on why i consider this film one of the best of the holiday season, but I believe it has something to do with the following:

The cast were brillaint. I've already mentioned Emma Thompson, who did a fantastic job as the slightly eccentric author suffering from writers block as she molds her narrative. Her protagonist is Harold Crick (Will Ferrell), who is actually a living human being, and as the story unfolds and he experiences the narration of his life by Kay, Harold finds a new lease on life, which provides us with an endearing subplot and the also well casted Maggie Gyllenhaal.

Ferrell proves to be perfect for the part of Harold Crick. Many argue no one else could play him, and I'd have to agree. While I have liked Ferrell in previous films, this performances introduces us to a fresh taste of Ferrell, with the director, Forster, recognising an element in his actor which he believed this film could bring out in a way no other could.
Furthermore, I think we see a new and impressive potential in Gyllenhaal's performance - I look forward to see what else this girl gets up to in the future.

So aside from an effective cast, elements of this film had me laughing out loud (mostly thanks to Ferrell and Thompson) and that is definately a plus - a film that can genuinely make you laugh while also exploring more intimate, emotional and meaningful parts of life - parts that many of us can relate to in some shape or form - definately earns points in my book! And this one does it all well!

Additionally of course the novel concept of our film's story is actually, well, quite strange, with several scenes leaving you questioning how this can work and how it will play out, yet, in my opinion, loving it all the while for that very reason.
And lets not forget the little love story which so nicely caters to us romantics out there (my favourite bit being the gift of 'flours' - brilliant!)

Having said all this, I do not claim this to be one of the best films of all time, dont get me wrong. Brilliant, clever and entertaining - definately. But I did, personally, have a few faults to pick out along the way... But for now, I will leave those alone, and let you decide for yourself, as I do maintain it is worth seeing!
Do please let me know your thoughts when you have made it to see this strange piece of fiction!

Pics!

2007-02-04T16:09:00.000+11:00

I recently got my photos of my 21st back, so I thought Id put a few up as promised back at the event (21st of Oct 06). Enjoy - i did! My brother and I Some of the boys - RD, Craig, Jarryd and Walshy lookin smart The beautiful girls giving my speech - in song form! As many have said, one of the best 21st speeches ever :) Thanks again guys! Me and Tim - the one responsible for the photos! A big, big thank you again to you dude! You rock!

2007-01-31T00:00:00.000+11:00

Cry Out To Jesus
Words by Mac Powell / Music by Third Day

To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye

And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus...

When your lonely
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out,
you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus...

“I was blessed because I was loved by you”

2007-01-25T10:25:00.000+11:00

Summer camp was, as usual, good times. But this is not the time for me to tell you all about that. Maybe later.
This is my friend from school, Amy, and me at our year 12 formal.

On tuesday this week, at 21 years of age, Amy passed away. After 5 years of battling cancer with a heart condition her body could no longer take it.

While words could never express what I (let alone her family!) am feeling right now, nor could they ever fully describe the beautiful person that was Amy, let me just tell you a little about her, and then something important we must all realise!

Amy never complained about being sick or unable to do things because of being sick.
She had a desire to save the environment that none of us could ever match.
She always loved watching the MASH re-runs on TV after school.
She always looked for the best in others.
And always had time for others.
She was just one of those people who you looked at and said the world would be a better place if there were more Amy Coopers in this world.
And I feel incredibly blessed to call her my friend for 8years.

Dearest Amy, I will miss you dearly .

Now, it must be said, that Amy also had a love for Jesus.
It is a comfort at a time like this to know she has actually now been taken home to be with our Heavenly Father. As a friend said to me this week, it is a comfort to know that amy truely is in a better place. she is relieved from her pain, free from her broken body, free from the curse of cancer and of the sin of this world.

Death is damn scary. It can come at any time and we have absolutely NO control over it. That scares me!
As a Christian though, Amy didnt need to fear death, because through Jesus, she is only offered life!
But if you are not prepared for death, or the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, then you do have something to fear.

I say this simply because I want all those I know and love to know life, not death!

On Summer Camp Ed spoke on the last day from Luke 17:20-37 where we are told the glorious return of Jesus will come suddenly, at that point it will be too late to change your mind about him!

Death is sudden and out of our control. While the loss of a loved one is terribly painful, there is hope offered knowing they live on in Heaven and we too will see them again one day.
Please, be prepared for death! Do not leave it too late!

"There is a promise of hope,
eternal release from the pain that we know
Never again to cry tears of pain,
never to suffer again
There is a promise of hope
Jesus himself we can personally know....
For all those who dare, who dare to believe,
a promise of hope, you can freely recieve,
and know you can live, even after you die,
dont let this promise of hope pass you by.

There is a promise of hope,
come and believe before its time to go,
come feel his hands wipe the tears from your face
as the pain of this life is gently erased,
come be apart of the heavenly praise,
oh praise to the promise of hope.
Jesus our promise of hope"

2007-01-17T09:21:00.000+11:00

Im just about to head off on the next camp, this time Summer Camp down at Port Hacking with TC!

As someone involved in youth ministry, one of the other things that struck me at Summer School this year was hearing how few countries have no one to lead and minister to their youth and children.
What an amazing blessing it is to have such a big youth group and a camp like this one where the kids can enjoy fellowship together and grow in love and knowledge of our Lord! And what a priviledge it is to be apart of His work in this!

Please pray for myself and the rest of the leadership team this week. And of course, for the kids.
May hearts be changed and the Lord glorified in all we do!

Ok, off I go...

(Oh, saw 'The Blood Diamond' last night. Amazing. So much to be said. See it!)

10, 9, 8...God is great!

2007-01-14T13:59:00.000+11:00

Last week was spent in Katoomba at CMS Summer School.
I was leading on the Infants team (k-2 kiddies) and had an excellent week!
The mornings were taken up with leading the little ones, entertaining them, singing, learning memory verses, doing craft, and hearing stories from the Bible about Jesus and his friends by the sea. The afternoons we had off, so were either spent down in one of the many coffee shops that make up katoomba and leura or simply just chilling by the lake and getting to know the rest of the team better. And the evenings were spent in sessions, hearing talks from the Bible and/or hearing from missionaries which CMS has sent or will be sending off around Australia and the world.
As I said, it was an excellent week. But hard at times too.
I was both challenged and encouraged.
It is amazing to see these kids as young as 4 know and learn about Jesus and especially be so keen to pray!
It is so encouraging to be in a massive shed filled with Christians from all ages from all across Sydney.
It was great to work with a team of which half I didnt know before this week - all coming from such different areas and backgrounds yet getting along and working so well together simply because we are all united in Christ!
It was refreshing to be reminded of the Truth for which we were all there and we were preparing these kids for - being reminded that all of our days are numbered and while we do not have a culture ready and willing to acknowledge death in everyday conversation, that shileds itself from this fact by busying itself with family, wealth, life... death is inevitable and we need to be ready for it! William Taylor spoke on Matthew 8:1-22 establishing that while the universal condition of humanity is death, Jesus offers a solution for this condition, conquering and reversing it. He CAN and WILL save you and offer you the salvation you need. Despite all that you have experienced and felt this past month, year, 10 years, you can come before God and say if you are willing Lord, maky me clean!
And it was also challenging to hear the great need that exists worldwide to educate others about the Bible and our Lord Jesus. The need is there. The opportunity is there. Is the heart willing and able to go there? Where can you serve and how?
It is one of those things that makes you question what you are doing with your life. And I need to continue to ask this question and not let the challenges of this week simply drift away and out of my system!
Having said that, it was also greatly encouraging to hear the way God has been working in all these cities around the world! And it defiantely puts things into perspective as you realise just how blessed we are to have the Bible teaching we do in Sydney!
One story that stood out to be was that of a small village in Tanzania. One of the CMS missionaries established a Bible study there in a building that would be about the size of one of the rooms in our houses here. She spoke of the amazing desire by these people to study the Word - with at least 70 people showing up but she only having the facilities to lead 20 at a time. Some of them travelled oover 1 and1/2 hrs to get there. Some saved up over the equivalent of $250 Australian to buy a Bible. I dont know about you, but i think there is a beautiful passion there that is possibly lacking in a lot of us who have these things so easily!?!

There is a lot more that could be said about this week. But too much to put down now. I may continue to post as more comes to mind. It was such a full week, but such a blessing to be apart of. I hope and pray the things I have learnt and that were put on my heart this week will remain there and continue to grow!

In other news...Yesterday I enjoyed been back in Sydney and the beauty that is holidays, visiting the art gallery, wandering through the botanic gardens, and catching up with friends while enjoying some Jazz in the Domain - South American style (which felt like a continuation of Summer School in a way) So so good!
But how easy could it be to fall into the temptation of enjoying events and activities like these and have them take over the thoughts I have just mentioned above! Please Lord, do not let this happen!

(As usual, some photo taking occured as well...check out some more on Flickr)

HawksNest

2007-01-05T17:20:00.000+11:00

I just got back from a few day holiday at Hawks Nest. It wasnt long, but it was wonderful!
A few days away with some good friends enjoying God's beautiful creation and time just relaxing! Yup, it was a busy few days - sleep, walk on the beach, eating, dvds, board games, sleep, walks on the beach, reading, eating, sleep.... Thanks guys! Good times indeed! That place is absolutely beautiful! Once again, I felt so relaxed and at peace on the beach- gotta love it!

Here is a pic of the view from the place we were staying: Me, Rebs, and Sarah...
Walkin on the beach.......and more photos will appear on flickr soon so stay tuned!
Meanwhile, tomorrow A.M. I am off to Summer School (please see post below)
See you on the other side!

2007-01-03T11:45:00.000+11:00

As mentioned in earlier posts, I am currently reading "Through Gates of Splendor".
Recounting how these missionaries came to be missionaries, their struggles, and their passion for the Gospel, this book is inspiring.
While the struggles faced by these men in the jungle are somewhat different to those faced by Christians in Sydney, it is encouraging to read of the struggles we have in common.
The desire these guys had to share the gospel is so clear in their words left on the pages of their diaries 50 years ago, wanting to reach every hidden and feared tribe they could.

Anyway, my words here will not do justice to this story, so, while I think you should read it, in the meantime I just wanted to share a few more quotes from the book which I found encouraging and which also challenged me to show the same faith in my own life!

"Ever since I accepted Christ as my personal Saviour last fall and wanted to collow Him and do the will of the Lord, I've felt the call to either missionary, social, or ministerial work...Can't say now what the calling will be but I want to be a witness for Him & live folllowing Him every second of my life." (p.67)

"When life's flight is over, and we unload our cargo at the other end, the fellow who got rid of unnecessary weight will have the most valuable cargo to present to the Lord." (p.52) (Nate Saint, the pilot of the team)

These men expressed a "sense of urgency in the task of winning souls."
I am about to go to CMS Summer School on saturday where I will be leading a bunch of K-2 kids as well as hearing talks and missionary spots myself - I am looking forward to this opportunity to serve and to be fed well from God's word. Last year was very inspiring and I hope and pray this year will be the same - encouraging being with a group of Christians and learning together, but also incredibly challenging in terms of thinking about how I am serving God with my life.

The kids I will be leading are about 4yrs to 6yrs old. Young, yes. But never too young to learn about Jesus.

I hope and pray I can take to heart the same urgency Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, and the others felt - not just at summer school, but everywhere!

Meanwhile, we'd really appreciate your prayers for summer school if you get the chance!
Here are some things you can pray for:
That the guys giving the talks (Pete + Kenno) will faithfully teach God's word
That the kids will have hearts prepared to hear God's word
That we would actively show God's love to the kids
that God will be working in everyone at summer school so they can know, serve + love Him more
For the kids parents who will be hearing talks while the kids are with us
For unified team under Jesus
For energy, health, and safety
For all of summer school - speakers, missionaries, teams, kids, parents...

Your prayers are much appreciated!

Happy New Year to you all!!
In HIm,
C.

Married!

2006-12-30T13:34:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I had the great pleasure of seeing one of my closest friends get married.
It was absolutely beautiful!
Anne and Fox, congratulations and I wish you all the best!
Here is a pic of the happy couple! I couldnt think of a better match! These are two great people who have such a clear love and passion for Jesus and from that, a deep love for each other and a desire to serve Him together!
As I said, such a joyful occassion!

Christmas Blessings

2006-12-24T16:56:00.000+11:00

When he saw this photo my brother Ryan said these words: "The photographer in her natural habitat."
I think he couldnt have been more right!
I have had the blessing of spending the last two days at the beach, and I gotta say, I truely love it! I could honestly sit on the beach and watch and listen to the waves, feel the sand beneath my feat, for hours on end.

Friday arvo was spent at Dee Why beach. The sun was out, the smell of summer was in the air, and time was spent enjoying God's beautiful creation while catching up with and being encouraged by a brother in Christ. With a bit of photo taking and food thrown in there too, there aint alot better than that! One of the great blessings of holidays!

Saturday it was up the coast to Dan's beach house for the day. The weather wasnt as great this time, but the location was superb - God is powerful and creative so it was just as amazing to see this beautiful beach scene transformed as clouds rolled in for the evening storm.
A bbq with good friends, a stroll along the beach, running around with 1 and 3 year olds, sitting by the beach til the late hours of the evening with a glass of wine at hand, the day passed relaxed and greatly enjoyed.

The beach. One of my most favourite places for a number of reasons, but I think mostly because every time I make it there I instantly feel more relaxed and am overwhelmingly reminded of our amazing Lord and the work of His hands on this earth.
I look forward to more afternoons like this to come this summer!Meanwhile, of course, today is Christmas Eve.

I dont know about you, but Christmas has definately crept up on me this year! Tomorrow I look forward to a relaxed day with my parents and my brother. They are such a blessing to me and its a joy to spend that quality time with them.

While Christmas seems to be so often about family, though, its necessary to remember why it is we are all actually getting this holiday and what we are to do with it!

As the words of Luke remind us, Christmas day is all because of one miraculous person and event: "Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11

Yes, over 2000 years ago God became flesh. He entered the world to dwell among us, to show us the way, to die for us in our place, and to offer us new life.

Mary arrived by donkey, Jesus born in a dirty old stable - our King brought into the world through humble beginings! A sight that must have been so ordinary in actuality the most extraordinary thing this world will ever know!

How will you spend this Christmas??

I say spend it with your family and loved ones because they are more important to us than we will really ever realise.
But do more than that, do what the words of Zechariah say, written many many years before the birth of Jesus Christ:

"Rejoice greatly; O daughter of Zion!
Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem!
See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."
Zechariah 9:9

Spend it remembering our Lord and Saviour with joy and praise!

Merry Christmas to you all!

Whats been happenin?

2006-12-20T18:44:00.000+11:00

Its been a while. Rather than just list whats been happening, let me fill you in on a few ways God has been working over the last week and how we can respond...

Micah

What I love about reading the Old Testament is that it just so clearly demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people! I read Micah last week - one of those books I just hadnt really read before so thought it was time. And its great! Without going into the detail (you should read it for yourself) it paints an amazing picture of the destruction + punishment of Israel, which is very scary

"Therefore I will give you over to ruin and your people to derision; you will bear the scorn of the nations." 6:16b

Yet hope is not far away for those who trust in the Lord.

"But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Saviour; my God will hear me." 7:7

A beautiful image of forgiveness and the faithfulness of God to his promises is painted. And it is welcomed like rain to drought striken nation. Like water to the lips of the thirsty.
Let me share some of it with you:

"Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance?
You do not stay angry for ever but delight to show mercy.
You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.
You will be true to Jacob, and show mercy on Abraham, as you pledged on oath to our fathers in days long ago." 7:18-20

To people deserving punishment and completely undeserving of love, compassion is shown.

Praise: God for His forgiveness and faithfulness
Pray: That I may continue to read, learn from and rejoice in His word

Work

It feels like a lot of my time lately has been taken up working at the moment, and I gotta admit, Im a little over the newsagents! I am currently looking for jobs. Prayer for this process - particularly patience - would be appreciated! Some interesting opportunities have opened up that will be investigated, but generally, I know its all in His hands.

Creche

Ive only done creche once before in my life, im used to slightly older kids. But last week I helped look after about 10 or so babies (yes, all under 9months) while their mums did a first aid course at our church. Man, that was a learning experience! But also brought great joy, especially gettting to know the little man belonging to our minister. What is exciting here, is that, as I believe anyway, many of the mums dont go to church, so having the first aid course in the building was at least getting them in there! They were also given info on our christmas and summer services. and our minister's wife was amongst the group. I think prayer for these women would be great - maybe they could get more out of the course than some first aid knowledge! ;)

Rebbi's 21st!!

Finally, saturday night was Rebbi's 21st (pic of me and here below). Rebs is one of my best friends and it was a great night and very exciting to celebrate with her! Praise God for rebs, her friendship, and her faith in Jesus!
And just cos this pic makes me laugh...Jumbo and Cippo at Rebbi's

Inspiring!

2006-12-14T19:29:00.000+11:00

More words from Through Gates of Splendor:

"I would gladly give my life for that tribe if only to see an assembly of those proud, clever, smart people gathering around a table to honour the Son - gladly, gladly, gladly! What more could be given to a life?"

Pete Fleming
(p.26)

"I have one desire now - to live a life of reckless abandon for the Lord, putting all my energy and strength into it. Maybe He'll send me someplace where the name of Jesus Christ is unkown. Jim, I'm taking the Lord at His word, and I'm trusting Him to prove His Word. It's kind of like putting all your eggs in one basket, but we've already put our trust in Him for salvation, so why not do it as far as our life is concerned? If there's nothing to this business of eternal life we might as well lose everything in one crack and throw our present life away with our life hereafter. But if there is something to it, then everything else the Lord says must hold true likewise."

Ed McCully
(p.42-43)

"we've already put our trust in Him for salvation, so why not do it as far as our life is concerned?" I Love that quote! So, So true!!

Revive

2006-12-09T15:21:00.000+11:00

Last night was the launch of Revive's latest album, Trafalgar Street.
It was awesome seeing the large swarm of people flowing off the street into the church to see and support Dave, Ty, Rich and Mike.
I have to admit, it is weird when you see people lining up for your the autograph of people you have known for years, but it was exciting times for the guys. And exciting not only cos they're my friends and brothers in Christ, but also cos they are all about glorifying God and spreading His word. These guys are passionate about music and passionate about Jesus and its very cool seeing those things work together!

Shameless plug time - they are supporting Third Day on their Australia tour next year so go along and see them!

Meanwhile, I had fun taking a few pics for the guys so heres a few for you (more on flickr and www.reviveband.com)...

He alone can satisfy

2006-12-07T19:22:00.000+11:00

Right now I can safely say there are two things that frustrate me about me: When I want to say something but dont and then regret it. And when I then spend too much time thinking, often either about what i could say, or simply regretting my inability to express what I wanted to say when the time was right. Pointless and unhelpful, but felt nonetheless.

Thankfully, I can be comforted (as well as greatly humbled and challenged) by these wise words of the missionary Jim Elliot, read in the account of his life of service in Equador and the death that came for the sake of Christ, 'Through the Gates of Splendor'...

"Such hungering He alone can satisfy, yet Satan would delude and cast up all sorts of other baubles, social life, a name renowned, a position of importance, scholastic attainment. What are these, but the objects of the 'desire of the Gentiles' whose cravings are warped and perverted? Surely they can mean nothing to the soul who has seen the beauty of Jesus Christ... All is vanity below the sun and a 'striving after the wind'. Life is not here, but hid above with Christ in God, and therein I rejoice and sing as I think on such exaltation."

"There is no such thing as attainment in this life; as soon as one arrives at a long-coveted position he only jacks up his desire another notch or so and looks for higher achievement - a process which is ultimately suspended by the intervention of death."

There is just such truth in these words!

Living Water

2006-12-03T23:38:00.000+11:00

Have you ever been so thirsty that you have put a pebble in your mouth so you can make enough saliva to swallow even once?
Thankfully, I have never been so physically in need of water.
But its an intense thirst, isnt it, something like that?

Tonight at church we looked at John 4:1-26.
We ended the evening with the above question.

And the challenge as to whether we thirst for Jesus - the one who offers living water - with such intensity.

Gosh, I dont know about you, but thats a challenge isnt it?!

"See, the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love,
Well supply your sons and daughters
And all fear of want remove.
Who can faint while such a river
Ever will their thirst to fade
Grace which, like the Lord, the giver,
Never fails from age to age?"

A challenge to thirst, to long for and long to know, to be quenched by Jesus in every way.
And a need to praise God for his amazing grace which gets me through and will not fade!

Beyond Borders

2006-11-30T09:10:00.000+11:00

Beyond Borders (2003)
Director: Martin Campbell
Starring: Angelina Jolie and Clive Owen.

I watched this film for the first time last night. I had seen it on the video store shelves numerous times and half thought about getting it, expecting just another war/action film that Angelina Jolie would be the hero of.

But last night I was pleasantly suprised.
Or perhaps they are not the right words. The film does, afterall, depict famine and disease and war torn nations in need of aid and the struggles of distributing that aid.
Impressed, perhaps. Impressed not only with the performances of Jolie and Clive Owen, or the filmmaking and cinematography - which were all very good. And impressed not only with the amazing set design and construction that went on in the production of this film (including creating camps in the african desert from scratch). But mostly with the fact that this film addresses a subject very rarely addressed by mainscreen cinema.

I say the words 'pleasantly suprised' are not appropriate because very little of this film is pleasant.

The film takes you through famine and disease striken Ethiopia, war torn Cambodia, and war torn Chechnya with doctor Nick (Owen) and Jolie as they try to help and save as many people as possible. Jolie plays the rich white woman living in London who wants to help out. She of course becomes much more involved than planned, and falls for Owen.

But as cliche as all that sounds (hence why i had lowish expectations), when you actually watch the film, you cannot help but be blown away or at least challenged to some extent by the injustice in this world and the need to help in some way. It does not glorify the work of these actors. It is realistic in the amount of conflict and struggles that the aid workers face in helping others.
There is also a very powerful and confronting contrast between a charity benefit held in london - fancy clothes, food and dancing - to the reality of what their money does and how far it actually gets.

This was of course the film that challenged Jolie and started her into all her aid work in third world countries. But you can see why. Holding a starving child in your arms, feeding him by wiping his lips with a finger of milk hoping for some sign of life, actor or not, thats gotta affect you.
As I read in a photographic magazine this week, "Narrative can make us understand. Photographs do something else: They haunt us."
Images in this film certainly do that.
I honestly cant say much more about this film because its impact is something i cannot fully describe. Perhaps, as I have said before, I am too often too impacted by films. But that is actually the point of this film. To awaken us to the help that is needed.

I for one will be praying for wisdom as to how I can personally best help out. But this world is fallen, it is suffering, and it needs a lot of prayer. I admire the doctors and aid workers out there. Yet I know they do not need my admiration, but my support and prayer.

In my opinion, this film is a must see!

Cheering up

2006-11-25T17:37:00.000+11:00

So I've been sick on and off for about 3 weeks now. Just when I was getting over the last thing I got hit with something completely different! I know there are much worse situations I could be in right now, but if you are the praying kind Id really appreciate prayer right now - I am sick of sickness and feeling so run down. I cant afford keep going this way with all the things coming up in the next few weeks and months.

Thankfully, though, I received a few photos today that cheered me up alot!
The first is of my cousin Rhys and his wife Tarsh's little boy Jack. He turned 1 not long ago, and I still havent met him, but I love getting updates from over the water! Isnt he adorable?! He's grown so much! This pic made me smile!
The second lot I got sent from my Bible study girls. They are shots of them at the Helen Ball (basically a formal we have for Senior High at CCSI).

My Bible study!

Me and two girls from my Bible study.

Speaking of my Bible study...last night was another great night with them. I was greatly encouraged to hear what some of them have been reading in their personal time with God recently. And we got through the study and they seemed to get it all as we talked about perseverance in the Christain faith, the goal we are waiting for and what we do while we wait. Was good times! Praise God for the way He is working in these girls!

Coffee and Cigarettes

2006-11-23T19:03:00.000+11:00

Coffee and Cigarettes, a film by Jim Narmusch, is a series of vignettes that all have coffee and cigarettes in common. There are a number of famous faces including Cate Blanchett, Bill Murray, Steve Buchemi, and Iggy Pop.

I have to say, I really enjoyed this film. It is beautifully directed, acted and photographed.
While some sections are more engaging than others, its fascinating how interested a conversation between two people in a coffee shop can be. Such a simple concept really, but quite beauitfully presented.
I love the shots looking down on the tables and coffee cups from above!

Some conversations are awkward, with little to be said between the two people. Some are natural like good friends catching up. Some are quirky (such as the one with coffee adicted Billy Murray). Some are funny. But many seem real.

If you havent yet seen this film, I would recommend you do so. It may seem slow going, or perhaps disjointed as the only thing connecting the sections is the coffee and cigarrettes, but nonetheless, it is, as i said, an interesting observation of people and conversation, and worth seeing (in my opinion at least!)
If you have seen it, then please, share your views here...

Free Art....before it frees you!

2006-11-19T21:41:00.000+11:00

Hot Chips consumed by the beach - $6.20

Parking - $4.50/hr

Time spent with brother and enjoying art amongst God's beautiful creation - Priceless!

Saturday I finally made it to Bondi for the Sculptures by the Sea. While I didnt make it there as planned for the sunrise with the crew from last year, I did get there on an absolutely amazing warm, sunny day and spent the time with my brother - good deal in my books!

Cant really complain with the combination of two of my favourite things - art and the beach!

I admit, I was amazed at the number of people there though! Its quite cool to think that that many people were there to enjoy art isnt it?! It was insane though! And thus, not quite as suitable for photographs as the early AM venture, but thats ok! I still got a few....you can see some here, and more on Flickr. Enjoy!

I did find it somewhat ironic that one of the pieces people seemed to enjoy the most was the one which involved hanging pine trees. People could walk amongst the trees, feel their texture and smell that distinctive pine smell. Looking up was just as great. We sat in the middle looking up (which kinda gives the visual in the picture below) amazed at the beauty of the blue sky, the contrast with the red wood, and the association the smell instantly brought back of memories of our childhood holiday destination. Why I found this somewhat ironic is that we were surrounded by beautiful landscape which was scattered with man made sculptures - most of which were made of metal or some other man made subtance (like the others pictured). Often beautiful or otherwise interesting and intriguing sculptures had been made and displayed, yet people loved the hanging trees! Anyone else find that funny? Or somewhat representative of society at large - continually tearing down the natural to build the man made... Dont get me wrong, I was one of the ones who loved that installation! I just found it interesting (am i the only one??).
Perhaps it was because of this ability of the audience member to interact with the piece - not only physically but also emotionally and mentally as associations are made.
Maybe that is what we often look for in art, something we can relate to or associate with? People often ask the (not always necessary) question "what does it mean?" when they look at art dont they?
Anyway, I didnt intend to ramble about this... If you got to the sculptures yourself or even if you just have a look at some of the pics, let me know your thoughts of the event, would love to hear them!
Meanwhile, praise God for days like these!

2006-11-16T21:21:00.000+11:00

Everything by Lifehouse

I was introduced to this song through this clip being posted on Hicko's blog. Thank you Hicko!
This is a very powerful song.
Hope you enjoy it too!

Match Point

2006-11-15T12:57:00.000+11:00

Love. Lust.
All. Nothing.
Truth. Deception.

Temptation. Passion. Obsession.

These are some of the themes running through Woody Allen’s ‘Match Point’.
Jonathan Rhys Meyers play Chris Wilton, the one-time pro tennis player who befriends the wealthy but pleasant Tom, and marries his sister, the very sweet Chloe.
Then he meets Tom’s fiancé, Nola (Scarlett Johansson).
His attraction to Nola quickly turns to obsession.
And events spiral out of control from there.

While this is a story about the seduction of wealth, about ambition, and the relationship between love, lust and sexual passion, perhaps the theme at the forefront of this film is that of luck, and the role which luck plays in our lives.

The film opens with a statement from Chris:
“There are moments in a match when the ball hits the top of the net and for a split second it can either go forward or fall back. With a little luck, it goes forward and you win…or maybe it doesn’t, and you lose.”

For Chris, as events unfold, it would seem more often than not luck is on his side and the ball falls forward. Whether or not it is fair for everyone else of course.

All this talk of ‘luck’ of course simply points out how little control we have over our own lives. I think this is the point which Woody Allen struggles with, perhaps more personally rather than as a potent theme of the film.

I enjoyed this film. I saw it twice in the one day I liked it that much. I had heard it was good and I generally like Woody Allen’s films, but it was actually even better than I expected. With a couple of clever twists, some likeable and intriguing characters, and some brilliant acting once again, particularly from Johansson. I actually became emersed in this film wondering what would happen next and becoming fascinated with the world Allen had created.

But perhaps this interest in the film beyond it being clever, well made and enjoyable, is the interest in what Allen is exploring, what he is digging at, reaching at, yet struggling to grab hold of.
And that is some sort of meaning in life.

With a film based around adultery, it you don’t have to look too deep to see the sin in this world represented.

But as I said, Allen digs deeper than the obvious.

Deception for example. It is obvious in the example of adultery. But in the context of being deceived by the world, by finding happiness in riches, by ambition and striving for a life where one could have everything they dreamed of, this is a level of deception perhaps much less obvious to the world. The average viewer would think it only common sense for Chris to take the high paying job in order to get what Chloe and Tom’s family have – more money than they know what to do with, except own beautiful estates, horses, companies, apartments by the river…
Chris gets these things in marrying Chloe. But he is still not satisfied.

See, Woody Allen himself knows what it is to want, to get, and to be left still wanting. He said in an interview that he started off making films to achieve a certain lifestyle he always wanted to live, the lifestyle that comes with fame and fortune. But now he has it, he has to keep making films to distract himself from it. He lives film by film in order to have some purpose in his life. He is said to make films not to celebrate life, but to distract himself from the emptiness and despair that actually exists.

Woody Allen seems to be longing for something more, and I think this search is evident in all his films, but particularly Match Point.

Chris even says he is looking for “some small measure of hope for the possibility of meaning”.

Not to justify his actions, but it seems that with such lack of hope or meaning why shouldn’t Chris choose the life and actions he did?

I am the sort of person that is affected by films i see. So many films remind me of the sin in the world and the beauty of God's grace, either by referring to it or the lack of it. And I cannot help but hope and pray that Woody Allen himself finds an answer to his questions that is more than temporary. And maybe make a film about that.
That would be a change wouldn’t it – a Woody Allen film about hope, not the lack of it!

Having said that, one of the things I love about his films is the way he so subtly struggles with these big life questions beyond such interesting and entertaining narratives themselves.
This is a clever and well made film worth seeing.

Another one bites the dust...

2006-11-13T13:26:00.000+11:00

Not at all to detract from the previous posts celebration of U2's brilliance, but I'd just like to share with you all that I just had my exam....
the LAST ONE OF MY DEGREE!!!
whooohoooooo

crazy! thats it! all done!
hmm how strange...
but also very exciting!!

What to do now though? Its always strange coming home from something final like that isnt it?! For my readers out there, what did you do the last day of your exams/hsc/degree?

For me today, seeing as I'm still sick, its raining, and im lacking a lot of energy, I have a date catching up with good ol Mr dvd...

U2

2006-11-12T13:39:00.000+11:00

Amazing.
Brilliant.
Amazingly brilliant!

Yet even these words cannot explain it.
Its just one of those experiences you cannot describe. Its somewhat surreal that seeing my favourite band in concert finally actually happened!

I am sick and was very close to not making it, but lets just say I am incredibly thankful for the medication that meant i was able to survive, and enjoy, those precious few hours!

From City of Blinding Lights, to Sunday Bloody Sunday, to Kite, they were truely great!

Thank you U2 for coming to Sydney!

Engaged!

2006-11-06T18:38:00.000+11:00

This weekend was Anne and Fox's engagement party!
Good times indeed seeing these two awesome people so happy together! Here are a few pics...
Anne and Fox - the future mr and mrs foxcroft!

Me and the bride to be...

'It Just Stopped'

2006-11-04T13:46:00.000+11:00

Thursday night, conveniently in celebration of my last day of uni, I headed to the theatre, and was reminded yet again just how much I love it! A good way to finish off a degree with a major in theatre too!
I saw 'It Just Stopped' at Belvoir St Theatre. The play was written by Australian playwright Stephen Sewell, directed by Neil Armfield, and had a cast of 4 brilliant actors, including John Wood - who, by the way, has amazing stage presence!
While I had very little idea of what to expect from the performance, except what i knew of Sewell and Armfield from uni this semester, I was incredibly impressed with the whole production. The set was pretty simple, but cool - an apartment with a feature wall made out of jelly beans (I want one!). As I said, the actors were all brilliant.
And the play itself was very funny, and raised some interesting issues and concepts relating to art, politics, and the end of the world. The director likened it to a Charlie Kaufman film, and I could definately see that likeness - if you know what that means then you will realise that it was slighty odd, confusing, had some interesting ways of playing with your mind, but also simply very clever and entertaining.

While I wont bore you with all the details, the play started off with everything that the characters (and us) rely on stopping - electricity (and therefore computer, aircon, elevators), phone, water, mobile phone reception. What I thought was an interesting inclusion in this performance was the way it considered how we would react if the world stopped - not just in terms of these things, but what if Jesus returned and we had been so completely consumed with ourselves and relying on what we have available to us now, in our good jobs and comfortable apartments with jelly bean feature walls, that we just wouldnt be prepared. These characters were frightened at that thought. That they would have to face judgement. This play was in no way a Christian play, nor were any of the characters. It showed a common way of thinking that "we are good people, or at least we havent done anything bad, so we should be ok right?"
Yet, they were still obviosuly afraid of God's judgement.
Interesting, I thought. What does that say about the world and its views?! Perhaps more people think this way than they are prepared to admit - and perhaps they will continue that way until it all just stops and they are forced to think about it...
Perhaps.

But its something we all need to think about isnt it? What distracts us from these important truths? What are we doing with our time here?

2 Peter has these words to say:
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.
Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. [2 Peter 3:8-13]

He will come like a theif in the night. Just like the characters in the play, we cannot know when it will be. But doesnt this just make you more convicted as to how you should be living your life? Or at least i think it should. Not only becuase we will all face judgement, but also becuase God has given us this time to help bring more people to him.

Limited time? Well, time has not yet stopped, so what do we do with it? - "You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God".

All good things must come to an end...

2006-11-02T16:22:00.000+11:00

Today I had my last lecture.
Not only my last lecture for the semester, not even just my last lecture for another year of uni, but....wait for it.....
the last lecture of my degree!!!

How crazy is that?!
It is a good feeling. But also a little strange!

One exam to go (on the 13th) and then I am done with my degree!! whoohooo

hmm....what comes next?...

2006-10-28T16:57:00.000+10:00

This afternoon I enjoyed lunch at the Bathers' Cafe in Balmoral with my family. With two more birthdays happening during the week, my grandfather still here from NZ, and my brother up from melbourne, this was a great opportunity to get together. Although I admit the food was a little disappointing, the location was spectacular - I dont think I've ever seen Balmoral look this beauitfully clear...and almost tropical with white sands and clear blue water! It was beauitful! I love the beach!
Afterwards we headed to New Orleans cafe for some coffee and cake...oh so tastey!
Anyway, because I should be writing essays, here are some pics! Enjoy!
Above: Poppa, me and my brother, Ryan.
Update: approximately 16 days til I finish my degree! Crazy!
And tomorrow is the final TC for the girls I am leading - then they move up to Senior High! We have an exciting morning planned for them - complete with special yr 9 breakie - but its going to be a little weird when they move up! I am going to miss them alot when I finish leading them this year!
But, for those who know the details of what I have been trying to decide over the last few months - I have decided to keep leading TC for another two years!! So, I say bye to one group and welcome another!
Exciting but sad too - crazy times!
...I can do anything through Him who gives me strength....

Pressing Onwards

2006-10-26T16:05:00.000+10:00

I have probably said this on here before sometime, but one of the things I love about reading the Bible is that there is always something more to learn - even if its a passage you have read many times before!

It was just the case again today as I read Philippians and was given two important reminders:

"Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Chirst Jesus." (3:13b-14)

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (4:6-7)

Have you ever noticed that in trying to make sure you are making decisions and living life in a way that will honour God and lead you to best serve Him, you lose sight of that much more important goal??
Well I think thats a danger we all face at various times in our lives, and I personally was in danger of it just recently. Which is why these verses are great reminders that struck me today.
I need to put more energy into pressing on towards the goal!
And I know I can do that through Jesus.

How amazing is verse 7 - the peace of God will guard my heart and mind!!
I feel so unworthy of such an amazing blessing!
But what comfort those few words offer!

I hope these words encourage and comfort you too. But I also hope they remind you to stay focused on the goal and trust in God as He leads you there!

God bless,
Chelsea

Twenty One!

2006-10-22T15:24:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was my 21st Birthday!!

I'd just like to say that I am blessed with some great friends and a great family!
Although being the birthday girl at the party means you dont get to chat to everyone nearly as much as you'd like, I am so incredibly thankful that I was able to celebrate with so many good friends, my loving parents and brother, and grandfather who is here from NZ!!

Rebbi, Pappy and Sarah deserve a special mention for their wonderful speech...which was actually a song they performed for me! I promise im not being biased, i think it actually was the best 21st speech i've ever seen! They are amazingly talented people. And it made me feel so special! I've always wanted a song to be written for me,...

Photos from the day will come later on (so be checking for their arrival), but a special mention must also go to the amazing Tim Goldsmith who so very kindly took pics for me! You rock dude! Thank you!

Anyway, it was a great birthday!
My Bible Study girls even spoilt me friday night with presents and cake and lots of excitment! Here is a pic of them:And saturday was topped off with cocktails at Orbit bar, looking over the beautiful Sydney Harbour.

Another year older!
Thank you to all who played a part in the day, but also in my life! I feel so incredibly blessed!

Meanwhile, I will leave you with something much more insightful and important to consider:
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." (2 Tim 1:7)
I dont know about you, but when I read that I am challenged to think about how i am to live in response...

"beautiful awkward pictures that you take with your eyes and fingers"

2006-10-18T00:20:00.000+10:00

Photographs.

I spend so much time taking them, posting them, talking about my passion for them….so I thought id post a bit about one of the reasons why this love exists…

A photograph tells a story.

A friend recently commented on one of my photographs as a one they really like. While its nice to hear this and the comment is totally appreciated, it is also a little weird to hear – images you have taken are liked by others. Its weird because my reason for loving the photograph comes from the context in which it was taken – the memory it evokes when I look at it – where it was, the way the wind and the sun felt when I took it, what intrigued me about the subject enough to take the photograph…. A photograph becomes something personal, in the memory it holds so dearly, it is odd to then think that a completely new meaning or association is established for an observer of your image.
It tells a story of which they can never be apart.
Yet, strangely, the image speaks to them also!

I therefore think that one common and important purpose of photography is its ability to capture a moment; to embalm a memory so that it cannot be stolen from you before you will let it.

The family snaps for example, these serve such a purpose.

My grandfather is currently visiting from NZ. On the weekend he presented my mother and I a photograph he had recently found, and framed. The image was of my Nana, my mother’s mother, his wife, who passed away last year. It was taken before he met her. While I admit it was not easy to see the photograph as my mother and grandfather started to talk of Nana’s passing. But it was still an absolutely beautiful image to see. A completely ordinary photograph of a person becomes an invaluable treasure. And what I loved about the whole thing was the way my grandfather, holding the frame with one, slightly shaky hand, his other slowly wiped across her image as he lovingly spoke of her and the memory of those early years. He must have studied this image a million times, but he so lovingly and gently pointed out that she had something in her dress pocket - a new observation? I wasnt really sure. But every little detail of this image was to be treasured.

A similar sentiment was alluded to when my aunt and uncle stayed with us a few weeks ago. One thing in particular stood out to me from a conversation we had when my uncle and I were sifting through some of my drawings one afternoon, discussing similarities between drawing, photography, and writing (he is an author). My cousin passed away 4 years ago. My uncle told me that when he comes across something of my cousin’s which he now feels he can, or should, depart with, he takes a photograph of it.
That photograph for him is so much more than a photograph; and so much more than a photograph of an object; it is an image representing and reminding him of hundreds of memories to which he desires to hold for as long as humanly possible.

Maybe I just think about things too much….but if you ask me, a photograph can be incredibly powerful!
There is always much, much more to them than what first meets the eye. Even if you are unaware of it, an image always has a story to be told.
And it is there for photographer, subject, and observer alike.

I don’t know about you, but I will continue to capture and to gaze.

(Ironically I could not think of a photograph appropriate for this post)

The Search....and other prayer points

2006-10-15T23:33:00.000+10:00

The Search

Left: Mon, Sarah, and Pappy in our funky Search team t-shirts!

Competitions to see who can build the tallest free standing tower out of marshmellows, straws, sticks and paper cups:

A skit series of Australia's next top model acted out by three 'ridiculously good looking' leaders:
Australian Idol - Singstar styleThe Amazing Race: St Ives Village edition
'Bloke overs' by Davo and Bruce of 'Straight Eye for the Straight Guy'
Three legged Soccer, with a rockmelon as the ball
Human foosball
Being led blindfolded attatched to rope through an obstacle course for Survivor
A real live game of Risk
Where else can such crazy activities happen but a youth group event?!
These are just some of the games and activities we ran for The Search this week!

Then of course there were the more serious parts of the mission - chances to get to know some of the new kids who will hopefully join our youth group; asking big questions such as:
Who or what do you think God is?
Who is Jesus and why is He so famous?
Why is Jesus so famous?
What is one thing every human needs?
Is it fair that God has a problem with each and every one of us?
How are you going to respond to the fact that God himself not only wants to know you personally, but that He personally provided the solution to the problem WE created?!

The talks followed the reality TV thing just as the games did. For example:
-Is God just like Big Brother watching over us?
-Jesus either had to be Lord or the Biggest Liar
- We need to undergo an Extreme Spiritual Makeover

4 days of mission is always gotta be tiring.
But I thank God for every minute of The Search and every single kid he brought along.
It was amazing! The team was great and such a good example of what working in a team united under Jesus should be like, serving each other, always willing to jump in and do whatever needs to be done! Its little things like that which make mission that much better!
God spoke faithfully and clearly through Rich as he challenged the kids but also provided some great analogies and clear explanations of the gospel. And the kids were definately engaged in what he had to say, which is awesome.
There were lots of great conversations with new kids and existing members of the youth group.
And a number of the new kids have expressed interest in coming along regularly and finding out more!

As I said, praise God for the Search!
It is such an amazing blessing to be apart of His work in this way; so incredibly encouraging to see Him work in these kids and through the leaders and such events
And so humbling to be reminded that it is ALL His work - we are mere vessels.
He had a plan for what impact the Search would have, its not up to us to change that but rather be used in the way he wants us to be. As I said, humbling.

Thank you to all who prayed for the Search. I ask that if you can, please do not stop here, for the work is not even close to being over! You can pray for Aiden, Courtney, Martin, Kay, Michelle, and all the other kids that came along and have been challenged in some way as seeds were planted. And please pray for us leaders of the youth group as these kids join TC and bible studies that we can be faithful in prayer for them and effective in encouraging further thinking and spiritual growth.

While we are on the topic of prayer (and I realise this is a long post, so thank you for persevering!).... I would really appreciate prayer for myself at this stage in my life.
I am in my final few weeks of my uni degree. And I am finishing up leading the girls i currently lead. Both these factors mean important decisions need to be made - what job to i pursue, do i do furhter study, and what ministry do i do next year.
To be completely honest with you I have often felt incredibly overwhelmed by all of this. When all options seem positive and when you dont really know what you want to do except find the best way to serve God, the decision process gets even harder. Basically ministry needs to be decided by tomorrow.
What ministry I do (youth or childrens) will impact what job I am able to do next year. While there are no jobs lined up, i need to figure out what direction i may be wanting to pursue.
There has been a lot of prayer and running over the pros and cons of all options numerous times. And for some reason I think my gut is telling me to stick with TC (youth minstry). I am scared that that may be because its what I know and love and that although thats a good thing, maybe trying something new is better!?

So, if you have the chance, please keep me in my prayers too, i would greatly appreciate it!

Ok, for now, its off to sleep - as i said, 4 days of mission is tiring and decision making is emotionally draining!

With love in Christ, Chelsea

Reality vs. Reality TV

2006-10-11T10:30:00.000+10:00

For those who don't know, this thursday-Sunday Christ Church St Ives is running a mission for the youth of St Ives, called The Search.
There are two sections - TC (years7-9)and Senior High (10-12). We'll be running all sorts of crazy activities as well as chilling out with the kids and of course, preaching the gospel. And the theme for the TC section is 'Reality vs. Reality TV'.
Oh, its going to be fun!!

As I see it, there are three main aims of the Search:
- To bring Glory to God; by
- telling the kids about Jesus and showing them His love
- To grow our youth groups with the new kids that come along to the mission

Why am I telling you this?
Well, I personally think its always encouraging hearing what other churches are doing
But mostly because I know I and the rest of the team would really appreciate your prayer if you get the chance!

Points to pray for:
- the kids of our youth group will bring their friends
- the kids (and leaders) will be welcoming to the new kids
- the gospel will be preached faithfully and clearly
- hearts will be changed
- kids that come along will want to keep coming to TC or Senior High
- for the team - that we can be loving and serving to each other and the kids - and that all the activities will run smoothly

Thank you! I will let you know how it goes!

God the Creator gives good gifts

2006-10-10T23:19:00.000+10:00

"God, the Creator, gives good gifts to His children, and these include creativity, inspiration, and talent."

I have just read the chapter titled "The Visual Arts: A Cloudy Lens, a Drab Palette" in Bob Briner's Roaring Lambs.
One of Briner's main points is that, like many of the other areas he has addressed, the fine arts are lacking in Christain content; that we have "forgotten the power and the promise of the arts" (p.144) and as a result sin is a much more popular theme for artists rather than using the mediums to produce "powerful images that depict God's grace". I read these words and am encouraged to produce such work myself with my drawing and photography. In fact, one of my aims with photographs such as those of the sunrise is to do just that - capture the beauty of God's creation so that people may see and be encouraged by the fact that our Lord is so amazingly powerful and creative.
How to practically represent Christain perspective and messages in some art is a challenge - but perhaps one we should no longer be afraid of but rather embrace.

Anyway, those are just some initial thoughts from the chapter, and ones I hope to keep contemplating as i consider what I can personally do with my art. The point though is to use our God given gifts to bring glory to God and encourage others; to create a positive Christain initiative in this area.

Meanwhile, one paragraph i just read that i thought would allow for some interesting discussion reads as follows:

"the church building itself ought to reflect the beauty and creativity of our Lord. Perhaps in a misunderstanding of stewardship and piety, most evangelical churches have slected a rather bland and uninteresting style of architecture. If your church is planning to build, at least consider designs that may be a little bit out of the ordinary. In addition to your necessary emphases on function and efficiency, place some emphasis on worship, onm the image you will leaven on your community. Even simple, cost-effective designs can be a work of art." (p.149)

Briner argues that the community at large views Christianity as opposed to art. Now whether or not you agree with him isnt really the point right now - this is kinda a seperate issue, i could write a whole other post on that - the point here is that by creating a church building that is creative and beautiful we would be showing that this isnt the case, that such a gift from God as creativity or artistic talent is celebrated within the church, and it would hopefully be a building that would uplift "even the casual passerby". Aside from all that, perhaps it would also encourage Christain designers/artists/architects to use their gifts for more things like this.

On the other hand, is this putting too much focus onto the building itself? Many non-believers do not understand the concept that for Christains the church is much more than just a building. Would taking the above approach give the wrong impression in this regard?

I'm not going to give my opinion right now, I want to hear your thoughts...What do you think about what Briner is saying?

Church Role in Politics

2006-10-04T20:48:00.000+10:00

Does the Church have a role in politics? Or perhaps the question you are asking is should the Church have a role in politics?

Interesting question I think. And one that seems to continually come up.
I admit, I dont have a great interest in politics - most of the time its just too confusing and all the politicians seem to do is criticise each other!

But I also personally think there are two reasons why the church does play a role in politics:
1. Chrisitans are needed in every industry and part of life, and politics should be no different
2. Christians need to play a role in politics in order to be active rather than simply offering criticisim or rebuke

Anyway, you may have read the two articles in the SMH about and by Kevin Rudd and his belief that the Labor party needs to have Christian input in politics - that we need to change our perspective that this is solely the role of the Liberal party and irrelevant to Labor - and it seems this attitude stems from the fact that Rudd himself is a follower of our Lord Jesus.
I find it exciting whenever I hear that someone is a Christian, but unfortunately I was also a little concerned about the way he expressed some of these views...

Firstly though, have a read of the following articles : Rudd seeks church role in politics and It's time to fight for the true Christian principle of compassion.

In the latter, Rudd says the following:
Christians are as entitled as anybody else to advance their views, so long as their views are tempered by reason, to the secular forum that is Parliament. My concern is that in recent years we've only been hearing one set of Christian views on politics - and that has been an overwhelmingly conservative one. The answer to this does not lie in a greater Christian voice in politics - it lies in a different Christian voice in politics.

Ok, I agree that Christians have just as much right as anyone to express their views, including before a secular parliament - in fact, i think its incredibly important that Christians in that position use it wisely and effectively express their views (or rather, the Gospel!).

Where I get a little concerned is when Rudd speaks of the 'different Christian voice' to be expressed in politics.
Shouldnt the Christian voice be unified??
I understand that the 'voice' expressed so far may not exactly be the most effective nor the most desirable and thus he wants a new approach. However, when speaking on behalf of Christians surely politicians need to be unified in their voice, just as the ministers of a church need to be unified in their mission and focus?
Justin recently quoted Buechner who said of those preaching (of course, formally or informally) “Let him tell them the truth.”

I think this should be the ultimate 'voice' of those in politics too.
I argue for a unified voice simply because they should have a unified purpose, coming from one truth alone.
Let them tell Gospel truth!

Thoughts??

The Wind that Shakes the Barely

2006-10-01T17:56:00.000+10:00

The average film goer has not known the eerie silence that fills the air after that final shot is fired into the chest of a fellow soldier; a comrade of war; a brother. We have not known the reality of being tortured or having our houses burnt to the ground. We have not received a letter from a loved one, written by their own quivering hand in their last moments of life.

Set in Ireland in the 1920s, these are realities that The Wind that Shakes the Barely brings to life.
The winner of Best Film at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival, The Wind that Shakes the Barely, tells the story of the young Irish men who united in their fight against the British. Driven by love for their country and those within it, these young men band together and employ drastic measures to defend their nation.
Amongst stories of love and loss, of duty and honor, of family, and of betrayal, Ken Loach introduces us to the realities of warfare.
This film is not easy to watch, not only because of the harsh realities of war, but also because Loach so effectively allows them to become reality for the viewer, becoming involved with the central characters Damien and Teddy, their personal conflict, and the fate they face; a relationship mirroring the conflict and turmoil faced by the whole of Ireland.

As a period/docu drama this film is well made. It is long, but you want to pay attention to every moment. The acting, particularly of Cillian Murphy and Orla Fitzgerald was great. The few stumbles over lines were noticable, but real - they seemed to emphasise the personal confusion, fear, and conflict every single character would be feeling at that point. If you have seen this film, please, share your thoughts here too!

Seeing someone kill another man in war is not a rare sight in film. War and conflict throughout history has been documented and represented in film for many years.
And on the surface, Loach’s film is no different.
However, what The Wind that Shakes the Barely does to make it notably impacting and worthy of a Cannes best film award – in my opinion – is drawing the viewer into the conflict ourselves. We are forced to question why war occurs.

In a similar manor to the way the truce over Christmas on the World War I battle field so beautifully depicted in Joyeux Noël (Christian Carion, 2005), brings to light the stupidity and irony of war, The Wind that Shakes the Barely presents you with the irony of an Irish soldier, once shocked at the behaviour of the British, behaving in exactly the same manor as those he once loathed, blinded – by pride perhaps, by confusion, by desire for freedom, or by utter fear and a total need for all conflict to be over.

There are two moments in this film that really emphasised the stupidity of warfare for me personally – they are the moments when friends are required to kill friends, and brothers. There is no room for forgiveness. There is no room for compassion. A rule has been made and that rule has been betrayed. An objective has been set and nothing, not even love for those dearest to you, will keep you from achieving it.

That is what makes this film so powerful. To be confronted with such a harsh reality that conflict like this - one which far too often overcomes the world - is in actuality just so, so senseless.

2006-09-28T10:12:00.000+10:00

This morning's sunrise at Newport Beach... After sunrise (how creative is our Lord?!) it was off to Dee Why for breakfast - yup its not often that you have to wait for the cafes to open for breakfast hey.... but while we were waiting we came across this little dude...Meanwhile...If you know me or have been reading this blog for a while, you would probably have picked up that I love art and I love good song lyrics (quite often its the lyrics make a song).
So you can imagine my response to this exhibition cant you?!
Combining two of my favourite things - what more could i ask for?!

(More pics from the morning on flickr)

"Everything is gonna be alright In the summertime"

2006-09-24T21:17:00.000+10:00

I am now officially on 'holidays'...One week...with quite a bit of uni work to get through too...
But that didnt stop me from embracing the holiday mode and the beautiful weather that came with this weekend.

Saturday AM saw me heading to the wonderful Dee Why Beach for brunch with a group of girlfriends I have known for over 6 years and went through youth group with. We do not see enough of each other these days. While the dissmal serving of banana that came with my pancakes reflected the countries current lack, it was nonetheless a very tastey meal. Post brunch we spent some time in prayer for one another sitting by the rock pools of God's beautiful creation! What a blessing to have friends - and days - like these!
Saturday PM I finally got to see the up and coming, very talented Gallery live! Ok, so they may be my friends and so get a bit of a plug...But they were great! Check them out! I was so impressed! Sunday also brought a bit of adventure and fun in the sun. After an enjoyable morning at TC I headed to the musuem of Sydney for an art exhbition for a bit of 1920s and 30s glamour and style. There were some great photos and I was once again inspired to get out into the streets of sydney and get into some more random people shots!
It was then to a BBQ - a taste of true summer making itself known again!
Bring on more weekends like this - warm, sunny weather and good friends!

One last thing to note - and the most important, so please, stay patient...
And that is of course church tonight.

We are currently making our way through the gospel of John. One of the things I love about the Bible is that no matter how many times you read a passage or a book there is always more to learn, or always key truths to be reminded of.

And tonight was no exception.
We were looking at Redefining Temple Worship from John's account of Jesus clearing the temple (John 2:12-25); speaking of the fact that we no longer need a place, a stone building, to meet with God, but we can meet God in person, in the person of Jesus. How great is that! Just think about it for a minute...
Meanwhile, we were also reminded that as we are united in the resurrection of Jesus, the raising of the new temple, we too are 'born again', are redefined, and must live a life that reflects this fact.

And what does all this have to do with worship?
Well, we gotta look at what this rebirth is all about, how it can actually be reflected in our lives...and this is where the words of Romans 12:1-2 come in:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Yes, worship is more than what happens in a building. It is constant.

Obvious?
Yes, I've heard it before too.
But does your life reflect it?

I believe this is to be the response we should have every single day:
"here I am to worship,
here I am to bow down,
here I am to say that you're my God"

The Sacred Romance - Part 1

2006-09-20T18:10:00.000+10:00

We come into the world longing to be special to someone and from the start we are disappointed. It is a rare soul indeed who has been sought after for who she is – not because of what she can do, or what others can gain from her, but simply for herself. Can you recall a time when a significant someone in your life sat you down with the sole purpose of wanting to know your heart more deeply, fully expecting to enjoy what he found there? More people have climbed Mt. Everest than have experienced real pursuit, and so what are we left to conclude? There is nothing in our hearts worth knowing.

We long to be known and we fear it like nothing else. Most people live with a subtle dread that one day they will be discovered for who they really are and the world will be appalled. (p.84)

We will draw our identity from outside ourselves; the question is, from whom? In the end, it will be from those moments and those people on whom we’ve had the biggest impact. (p.90)

The gospel says that we, who are God’s beloved, created a cosmic crisis. It says we, too, were stolen from our True Love and that he launched the greatest campaign in the history of the world to get us back. God created us for intimacy with him. When we turned our back on him he promised to come for us. (p.91)

If God is the Pursuer, the Ageless Romancer, the Lover, then there has to be a Beloved, one who is the Pursued. This is our role in the story. (p.98)

These are some extracts from the book The Sacred Romance by Brent Curtis and John Eldredge.
I'm not sure if any of you have heard of it or read it, but its an interesting read. These words come from the chapter called 'The Beloved'.
It is refreshing to be reminded that God is more than the author of the story, he is the central character; the hero. And not only that but as the hero, he is pursuing us.
Us!
To have an intimate relationship with Him!
I do not feel worthy, yet i know through God's grace in Jesus this amazing love and relationship is possible.
Do you have any thoughts on what these wrods from The Sacred Romance has to say??

Tonight's Sunset

2006-09-14T18:24:00.000+10:00

September sunset 2
Originally uploaded by chelseajg.

Ok I hadnt planned on posting 3rd day in a row, but this was so nice i had to post it...so those who missed it can share in the beauty!
How amazing is God's creation!?!

Infinite Attention

2006-09-13T21:04:00.000+10:00

Can God hear a hundred million prayers at one time?

"God has infinite attention to spare for each one of us. He does not deal with us in the mass. You are as much alone with him as if you were the only being he had ever created."

C.S. Lewis

One Challenge, One Promotion

2006-09-12T16:30:00.000+10:00

Reflections:

Steve Irwin dies. Peter Brock dies. And its 5 years since the September 11th attacks.
The world have had a few things to think about lately havent they? A few reality checks.
Each of these above mentioned events, although quite different in scale and impact, all have one thing in common.

They all remind us that life is fleeting and fragile.

If we go into more detail, they also remind us that God is in control and when we try to take over chaos results; that we live in a fallen world; that we need to look ahead to future hope rather than becoming attatched to this world.

But if we go back to the first point for a second, reinforced by these words in Romans:

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. (Romans 8:18-23)

how does that make you feel?
What are you going to do about it?

It is too easy to have that happy image of God - loving, comforting, caring, faithful, Fatherly. Yes, He is all these things. But he is much, much more than this too. Not only Lord and Saviour but all powerful and rightfully angered by our rebellion.
Surely in such a fleeting world out of our control we need to take seriously the need to tell people about the hope they can have in Jesus, and prepare them (and ourselves) to meet God by calling people to repent and turn to the Lord before it is too late.

How have these events impacted you? What are you going to do about it?

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I apologise to move onto something potentially trivial in comparison to the claims i have just made, but since I cannot make it to the official launch tomorrow, I feel obligated to announce...
that
the wait is over
the moment you have all been waiting for...
Colin Buchanan's DVD 'King of Christmas' is here!!
Get it today! Col has a good message to give...and you may even see a glimpse of me on there somewhere too...
Enjoy people!