I have just come back from “Earthquakes from Whispers” utterly overwhelmed! EFW was a prayer meeting like no other. My Church has overseas missionaries that we support, working in various countries in the East. These countries in fact, are home mainly to the religion of Islam. The prayer meeting was set up as ‘stations’, where each station was a representation of a different country. It was amazing to see all the different countries being prayer for and over, and also the different prayer needs for each country (though there were some similarities).
What struck me most – and the image is still fresh in my head – were two photos in the Bangladesh station. These photos were of young Christians who were martyred in June this year for showing the Jesus Film. It was horrifying to say the least looking at these photos of two battered, beaten, bloodied bodies (in some parts you could actually see bone)! And this is actually happening in the world – even as I write this post.
I think I got something of a small ‘awakening’ tonight, looking at each of these countries and their situations. My prayer is that I forever learn from what I have seen tonight.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
The Elderly
I love talking to elderly people. I say this because today I have been reminded of this fact.
I visited my old landlords after College today as a ‘catch-up’. Incidentally, they are the grandparents of my best mate, and I get on quite well with his family – always a plus. They are both in their early 80’s, and they have some awesome stories to share. It’s interesting to hear them when they talk, because Betty (the Grandmother) is the one who shares mostly about how God has worked in her life, and in the marriage that she and Harold share. Not to say of course, that Harold is less inclined to share his Godly stories. But what a breath of fresh air it was to visit them today. I had meant to see them since I moved out of my old flat, but never quite made it.
I love talking to them and listening to them for two reasons. There are more, but these are the main two. Firstly, I never got to know my grandparents, save one. I had always had a close relationship with Nana (Dad’s Mum), and I’ve had to deal with having a hole inside of me after her passing away last year, as you could imagine. Harold and Betty – in all respect – are the closest people I have to grandparents. They will never take the place of Nana, but wonderful it is, knowing I can call on them.
Secondly, it’s awesome to listen to the stories of where they’ve each come from, both as individuals and as Husband and Wife. Their stories absolutely reek of ‘Wisdom’. Of course I’m in a bit of a bind in that regard: whatever I’m going through, chances are it isn’t all that new to them =)
Praise God for the elderly. Society may not give them due credit, but I will always take my hat of to them. They are a blessing. Especially to a young pup like me.
I visited my old landlords after College today as a ‘catch-up’. Incidentally, they are the grandparents of my best mate, and I get on quite well with his family – always a plus. They are both in their early 80’s, and they have some awesome stories to share. It’s interesting to hear them when they talk, because Betty (the Grandmother) is the one who shares mostly about how God has worked in her life, and in the marriage that she and Harold share. Not to say of course, that Harold is less inclined to share his Godly stories. But what a breath of fresh air it was to visit them today. I had meant to see them since I moved out of my old flat, but never quite made it.
I love talking to them and listening to them for two reasons. There are more, but these are the main two. Firstly, I never got to know my grandparents, save one. I had always had a close relationship with Nana (Dad’s Mum), and I’ve had to deal with having a hole inside of me after her passing away last year, as you could imagine. Harold and Betty – in all respect – are the closest people I have to grandparents. They will never take the place of Nana, but wonderful it is, knowing I can call on them.
Secondly, it’s awesome to listen to the stories of where they’ve each come from, both as individuals and as Husband and Wife. Their stories absolutely reek of ‘Wisdom’. Of course I’m in a bit of a bind in that regard: whatever I’m going through, chances are it isn’t all that new to them =)
Praise God for the elderly. Society may not give them due credit, but I will always take my hat of to them. They are a blessing. Especially to a young pup like me.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
A Lesson from Sonny
I have a workmate at Window Treatments by the name of Sonny. Allow me to tell you a bit about him…
Sonny is a kind, elderly Chinese man, about 60 years old (or ‘young’ as I tell him). He works in the Vertical Dept. as a track maker, and pretty adept at it. Sonny is someone whom you can have a gentle, peaceful discussion on. Sonny is also a Church-goer, attending a Presbyterian Church (I couldn’t tell you where sorry – I don’t quite know). Whenever Sonny has a question to do with Christianity (or Theology in general), I’m usually the first guy he comes to…mainly because I’m the only other Christian in the workplace (and there’s 50 people who work at the factory).
I also recently discovered that Sonny doesn’t have a friend as such. I found this out by asking him how his weekend was. He told me it was quite boring, and went on to tell me that he went to Church on the Sunday, and that was basically it! In other words, he didn’t do a thing in the weekend. I asked him why that was, and also a little bit about his Church (to the point, I asked him if there were small groups, or friends at the Church). It was that question that bore out the truth. My heart fell.
Here is a man who is 60 years old, and doesn’t know anything socially outside of work and Sunday service. It is no wonder my heart fell, and yet a question stuck in my mind: What am I to do? Essentially, there is probably nothing that I can do.
I write this post as a lesson we can all learn. For all we know, a ‘nobody’ in the eyes of society may wander into our Church doors without us even knowing it. In search of fellowship, of friendship, he instead finds loneliness, and leaves only to continue in his empty world. What a tragedy!
Sonny has asked me many questions, and I have managed to provide an answer for every one, satisfying his need. For once, I ask a question, and go away stumped.
My prayer is that Sonny can find a friend and fellowship. My prayer is that we can be a friend to those who have none.
Sonny is a kind, elderly Chinese man, about 60 years old (or ‘young’ as I tell him). He works in the Vertical Dept. as a track maker, and pretty adept at it. Sonny is someone whom you can have a gentle, peaceful discussion on. Sonny is also a Church-goer, attending a Presbyterian Church (I couldn’t tell you where sorry – I don’t quite know). Whenever Sonny has a question to do with Christianity (or Theology in general), I’m usually the first guy he comes to…mainly because I’m the only other Christian in the workplace (and there’s 50 people who work at the factory).
I also recently discovered that Sonny doesn’t have a friend as such. I found this out by asking him how his weekend was. He told me it was quite boring, and went on to tell me that he went to Church on the Sunday, and that was basically it! In other words, he didn’t do a thing in the weekend. I asked him why that was, and also a little bit about his Church (to the point, I asked him if there were small groups, or friends at the Church). It was that question that bore out the truth. My heart fell.
Here is a man who is 60 years old, and doesn’t know anything socially outside of work and Sunday service. It is no wonder my heart fell, and yet a question stuck in my mind: What am I to do? Essentially, there is probably nothing that I can do.
I write this post as a lesson we can all learn. For all we know, a ‘nobody’ in the eyes of society may wander into our Church doors without us even knowing it. In search of fellowship, of friendship, he instead finds loneliness, and leaves only to continue in his empty world. What a tragedy!
Sonny has asked me many questions, and I have managed to provide an answer for every one, satisfying his need. For once, I ask a question, and go away stumped.
My prayer is that Sonny can find a friend and fellowship. My prayer is that we can be a friend to those who have none.
Monday, August 29, 2005
A Reflection: One Week To Go...
The first week of my two week ‘break’ is over; one more to go and then I’ll know where things are at.
I realise that my posts have taken something of a ‘one-track mindedness’ about it, and that’s for a good number of reasons. First, this of course is my little corner of cyberspace, and I will express myself accordingly on it. Second, this is a big deal to me. Not only does she mean a lot to me, these two weeks also have brought about a change in me. I guess for both of us this time has – and will become – a learning curve. It is only a question of what we have learnt from our time apart from each other.
For me, I think I have reached a point where I am comfortable ‘with the worst’. Yes I don’t want it to come to that, but if it does then I know that Jesus is still Lord. Whether I’m still going out with her or rendered single in a week’s time, I know that God is still God. I know He still loves me as I am, and that it won’t be the end of the world.
Praise God!
I realise that my posts have taken something of a ‘one-track mindedness’ about it, and that’s for a good number of reasons. First, this of course is my little corner of cyberspace, and I will express myself accordingly on it. Second, this is a big deal to me. Not only does she mean a lot to me, these two weeks also have brought about a change in me. I guess for both of us this time has – and will become – a learning curve. It is only a question of what we have learnt from our time apart from each other.
For me, I think I have reached a point where I am comfortable ‘with the worst’. Yes I don’t want it to come to that, but if it does then I know that Jesus is still Lord. Whether I’m still going out with her or rendered single in a week’s time, I know that God is still God. I know He still loves me as I am, and that it won’t be the end of the world.
Praise God!
Friday, August 26, 2005
Crazy Mary
A friend of mine came round today, with an FM Static CD. One of the songs played really struck me, and I’ve been listening to it courtesy of the FM Static web site. This song sums up beautifully what I’m going through…
* * * * *
Crazy Mary is a slow girl who looks up to no one.
Would do anything for a cold one.
Wishes she could find her way home.
Got the look on her face and the stare of a ray gun.
We walked by everyday
and I wish there was something I could do for her.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
She watches the world pass her by like a freight train.
They all call her the same name.
Laughin' as they point and stare at her.
So she crys out to God up in Heaven,
been prayin since she was 11.
For Him to send someone to meet her there.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
And no one knows the thoughts, the dreams,
and the ideas she's got and contains inside.
She's broken apart and her heart is still lookin for somewhere to feel alright.
And no one knows the thoughts, the dreams,
and the ideas she's got and contains inside.
She's broken apart and her heart is still lookin for somewhere to feel alright.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
* * * * *
Crazy Mary is a slow girl who looks up to no one.
Would do anything for a cold one.
Wishes she could find her way home.
Got the look on her face and the stare of a ray gun.
We walked by everyday
and I wish there was something I could do for her.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
She watches the world pass her by like a freight train.
They all call her the same name.
Laughin' as they point and stare at her.
So she crys out to God up in Heaven,
been prayin since she was 11.
For Him to send someone to meet her there.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
And no one knows the thoughts, the dreams,
and the ideas she's got and contains inside.
She's broken apart and her heart is still lookin for somewhere to feel alright.
And no one knows the thoughts, the dreams,
and the ideas she's got and contains inside.
She's broken apart and her heart is still lookin for somewhere to feel alright.
Maybe if I took a little time to talk then she'd heal a little if she wants to.
She can run but let's teach her how to walk away now.
I'll shake a little if she wants to she'll laugh a little if she needs to.
There's a key to the door that she's hiding behind.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
A Reflection: My Relationship
I’m in something of a dichotomy.
As many of you may know (if you either know me or are a frequent visitor), my girlfriend and I aren’t on speaking terms. This isn’t me saying that we are “on the rocks” as such. She has taken time out from things to sort out areas and problems in her life, and I have – for my part – backed off to give her that time that she needs. Now usually, my reaction to something of this nature is to crawl up, go into a shell and go into a “woe is me” state. Instead, I’m doing the opposite.
Since the start of the weekend (when the ‘space’ began), I have coped quite well with the ordeal. Knowing full well that I can’t text, ring or meet her, instead of getting depressed, I’ve gone the other way; I’ve been having great day after great day. And to be honest, I don’t know why!
I mean not to sound all spiritual, but only by the Grace of God am I being sustained the way I am. Only by Him am I able to keep a brave vigil, facing every day with a smile like I have been. Yes, I worry about her. Yes, I care about her deeply. You bet I want to talk to her, find out how she is. Instead I can’t do that, for in caring for her I am backing off, for her sake.
That of course isn’t my dichotomy. The problem is, is that because I don’t want to lose her as my girlfriend (if possible), I also don’t want to arrive at a point in my life where I can live life without her. They say “absence makes the heart grow fonder”, but absence also runs the risk of taking away from the heart any feelings we have for each other, which is what I fear.
I fear that in her…and I fear that in myself. If at the end of two weeks our relationship ends, then may it end for the right reasons; not because our feelings disappear with time.
Your thoughts and prayers are always appreciated. Thank you to all who have prayed for us, and thank you in advance if you do from this day on.
The Grace of God be with you all.
As many of you may know (if you either know me or are a frequent visitor), my girlfriend and I aren’t on speaking terms. This isn’t me saying that we are “on the rocks” as such. She has taken time out from things to sort out areas and problems in her life, and I have – for my part – backed off to give her that time that she needs. Now usually, my reaction to something of this nature is to crawl up, go into a shell and go into a “woe is me” state. Instead, I’m doing the opposite.
Since the start of the weekend (when the ‘space’ began), I have coped quite well with the ordeal. Knowing full well that I can’t text, ring or meet her, instead of getting depressed, I’ve gone the other way; I’ve been having great day after great day. And to be honest, I don’t know why!
I mean not to sound all spiritual, but only by the Grace of God am I being sustained the way I am. Only by Him am I able to keep a brave vigil, facing every day with a smile like I have been. Yes, I worry about her. Yes, I care about her deeply. You bet I want to talk to her, find out how she is. Instead I can’t do that, for in caring for her I am backing off, for her sake.
That of course isn’t my dichotomy. The problem is, is that because I don’t want to lose her as my girlfriend (if possible), I also don’t want to arrive at a point in my life where I can live life without her. They say “absence makes the heart grow fonder”, but absence also runs the risk of taking away from the heart any feelings we have for each other, which is what I fear.
I fear that in her…and I fear that in myself. If at the end of two weeks our relationship ends, then may it end for the right reasons; not because our feelings disappear with time.
Your thoughts and prayers are always appreciated. Thank you to all who have prayed for us, and thank you in advance if you do from this day on.
The Grace of God be with you all.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Prayer
“Is prayer your steering wheel, or your spare tire?”
- Corrie Ten Boom
At the moment in my home group, we are working through a study on ‘Decisions’, and no sooner had we started this quote was spoken. And it made for an interesting ten minute discussion.
Corrie is making a distinction between the believer who submits their decisions to God in prayer, and the believer who prays “when they need it”. Let’s face it – you don’t need a spare tire unless one in use goes flat. And let’s be honest – most of the time when we play heartfelt, fervent prayers, we either want something, or are going through a rough patch in our lives. And when all is well, we don’t tend to pray as much. Is this you?
I know I can resonate with Corrie’s quote. I’m going through a patch myself, and prayer has taken the forefront in this time of need. And if I look back to before this patch, my prayers weren’t nearly as frequent.
In the context of our home group study, we all are guilty of this. We all too often make up our own minds, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But how often do we involve God in our decision-making? God wants the best for us; that much is obvious. He loves us to bits, unconditionally. But He also wants to know how we’re getting along, how we’re finding life, what makes us tick and what ticks us off. In short, God wants to know what’s up. How often do we long to make lofty, spiritual prayers, when all He wants is us to come to Him as we would a friend? The God that entered into our existence, entered into our pain, wants to enter into our lives and our hearts.
Let’s make prayer our steering wheel!
- Corrie Ten Boom
At the moment in my home group, we are working through a study on ‘Decisions’, and no sooner had we started this quote was spoken. And it made for an interesting ten minute discussion.
Corrie is making a distinction between the believer who submits their decisions to God in prayer, and the believer who prays “when they need it”. Let’s face it – you don’t need a spare tire unless one in use goes flat. And let’s be honest – most of the time when we play heartfelt, fervent prayers, we either want something, or are going through a rough patch in our lives. And when all is well, we don’t tend to pray as much. Is this you?
I know I can resonate with Corrie’s quote. I’m going through a patch myself, and prayer has taken the forefront in this time of need. And if I look back to before this patch, my prayers weren’t nearly as frequent.
In the context of our home group study, we all are guilty of this. We all too often make up our own minds, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But how often do we involve God in our decision-making? God wants the best for us; that much is obvious. He loves us to bits, unconditionally. But He also wants to know how we’re getting along, how we’re finding life, what makes us tick and what ticks us off. In short, God wants to know what’s up. How often do we long to make lofty, spiritual prayers, when all He wants is us to come to Him as we would a friend? The God that entered into our existence, entered into our pain, wants to enter into our lives and our hearts.
Let’s make prayer our steering wheel!
Discipleship
Discipleship.
It is my number one topic, and also my number one pet hate.
Earlier I made a post titled ‘My Calling’. If you have read that post (as well as my Real v Nominal post), then you will have some idea by now that I am big on the idea of Discipleship. I’m big on it for many reasons. First off, Jesus himself is the ultimate embodiment of Discipleship. He is indeed the man to emulate. If we are to take seriously His claim that ‘…if you have seen me, you have seen the Father [God]’, then surely it is worth our lives to reach this goal. By that token, Discipleship is concerned with becoming like Jesus; becoming Christlike!
Secondly, I’m big on it because someone has to be. There are 1,200,000,000 (out of 2,000,000,000) people in the world that profess to be Christians, yet live a lifestyle in the opposite direction. And to be honest, it frustrates me. My hope is that it frustrates you too.
Am I being too harsh? Is what I write in this post offensive? If this post strikes a chord with you, ask yourself: Why do I react the way I do? Is it because you simply don’t like the idea that there are ‘false’ Christians out there? Or, dare I ask, are you one of them?
For all I know, I might be part of the problem rather than its solution. I would much prefer to examine my life, identify the things in it that choke my walk with God, and proceed to do something about it.
Are you?
It is my number one topic, and also my number one pet hate.
Earlier I made a post titled ‘My Calling’. If you have read that post (as well as my Real v Nominal post), then you will have some idea by now that I am big on the idea of Discipleship. I’m big on it for many reasons. First off, Jesus himself is the ultimate embodiment of Discipleship. He is indeed the man to emulate. If we are to take seriously His claim that ‘…if you have seen me, you have seen the Father [God]’, then surely it is worth our lives to reach this goal. By that token, Discipleship is concerned with becoming like Jesus; becoming Christlike!
Secondly, I’m big on it because someone has to be. There are 1,200,000,000 (out of 2,000,000,000) people in the world that profess to be Christians, yet live a lifestyle in the opposite direction. And to be honest, it frustrates me. My hope is that it frustrates you too.
Am I being too harsh? Is what I write in this post offensive? If this post strikes a chord with you, ask yourself: Why do I react the way I do? Is it because you simply don’t like the idea that there are ‘false’ Christians out there? Or, dare I ask, are you one of them?
For all I know, I might be part of the problem rather than its solution. I would much prefer to examine my life, identify the things in it that choke my walk with God, and proceed to do something about it.
Are you?
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Two Weeks From Now...
My girlfriend and I had a talk today. She's currently got a lot on her plate at the moment, and feels that she needs to take some time away to prioritise her life. For her, this means a period of change, a time of reflection and prayer, a time that God really needs to come to the party on. For me it could mean that in two weeks I may or may not have a girlfriend...
She has asked for some space and some time to sort things out, and I am going to cease contact with her for the next two weeks, in honor of her request. To be honest I don't want to think that I could be single. For those that know me, you will know how much she means to me. It is my feelings for her that will carry me through this difficult time. It is my feelings for her that will honor her with the much needed space she wants.
It is going to be a turbulent time, one full of uncertainties and questions. For you, the reader, I ask that you pray not only for me, but please give the lion's share of prayer to her during this time. I feel that it is her that needs the prayer the most. I simply want to get to the end of two weeks and still be that pillar of support for her, to still be her "man". But in facing the possibility of a break-up, I may have to prepare myself. Obviously I don't want to lose her, but I don't want her to continue battling issues.
I guess the next two weeks are going to be a time of soul-searching for the both of us. Not just as a couple, but in our individual lives primarily. While we both get space to seek God with all of our hearts, my hope and prayer is that not only she comes out the other side better off, but our hearts may be as one.
To those close to me: you know who you are. I'll need you guys for these next couple of weeks. Thank you for being there =)
She has asked for some space and some time to sort things out, and I am going to cease contact with her for the next two weeks, in honor of her request. To be honest I don't want to think that I could be single. For those that know me, you will know how much she means to me. It is my feelings for her that will carry me through this difficult time. It is my feelings for her that will honor her with the much needed space she wants.
It is going to be a turbulent time, one full of uncertainties and questions. For you, the reader, I ask that you pray not only for me, but please give the lion's share of prayer to her during this time. I feel that it is her that needs the prayer the most. I simply want to get to the end of two weeks and still be that pillar of support for her, to still be her "man". But in facing the possibility of a break-up, I may have to prepare myself. Obviously I don't want to lose her, but I don't want her to continue battling issues.
I guess the next two weeks are going to be a time of soul-searching for the both of us. Not just as a couple, but in our individual lives primarily. While we both get space to seek God with all of our hearts, my hope and prayer is that not only she comes out the other side better off, but our hearts may be as one.
To those close to me: you know who you are. I'll need you guys for these next couple of weeks. Thank you for being there =)
Saturday, August 20, 2005
'Real' vs 'Nominal'
Am I a 'real' or a 'nominal' Christian?
I recently started a new class at Bible College last Wednesday: Foundation for Mission. Basically, the course is as the name suggests, and on Wednesday we had our introductory lecture. My lecturer started off with a powerpoint slide show outlining a whole lot of statistics, one of which inspired this post.
In the world's population (6 Billion), 33% are Christian (2 Billion). However, out of that overall 33%, 20% are nominal Christians (1.2 Billion). That is, they are Christian 'in name only'. Added to this is the fact that Christianity is the third-fastest growing religion (behind Islam and Hinduism). I am left with the question: why is that? But also I am left with a hair-raiser: What am I?
Let's say for the moment I am a 'real' Christian. I am one who takes the words of Jesus, applies it not only to my own life, but also take opportunities to make a difference in someone else's life, no matter the impact. I hate that which is immoral or wrong, and 'Sin' is something I take seriously.
But let's also flip this proverbial coin. What if I'm a 'nominal' Christian? That would mean that I turn up to Church on Sunday and proceed to 'play the devil' six days a week. I acknowledge that I have sinful areas in my life, but I also acknowledge that I do sin deliberately. If you were asked to distinguish me from the crowd, I would be no different to the Atheist down the road. Jesus is who he said he was, but that makes little impact in my life. I swear, get drunk some weekends, get into trouble on some occasions...and then turn up to Church, thinking everything's going to be alright.
Can you see the picture forming? Out of 2 Billion Christians, 61% of that number are nominal! It's no wonder the stats show Christianity as #3...and it is also falling. And recalling my opening sentence, what am I? Am I part of the problem? Or am I part of the solution?
I recently started a new class at Bible College last Wednesday: Foundation for Mission. Basically, the course is as the name suggests, and on Wednesday we had our introductory lecture. My lecturer started off with a powerpoint slide show outlining a whole lot of statistics, one of which inspired this post.
In the world's population (6 Billion), 33% are Christian (2 Billion). However, out of that overall 33%, 20% are nominal Christians (1.2 Billion). That is, they are Christian 'in name only'. Added to this is the fact that Christianity is the third-fastest growing religion (behind Islam and Hinduism). I am left with the question: why is that? But also I am left with a hair-raiser: What am I?
Let's say for the moment I am a 'real' Christian. I am one who takes the words of Jesus, applies it not only to my own life, but also take opportunities to make a difference in someone else's life, no matter the impact. I hate that which is immoral or wrong, and 'Sin' is something I take seriously.
But let's also flip this proverbial coin. What if I'm a 'nominal' Christian? That would mean that I turn up to Church on Sunday and proceed to 'play the devil' six days a week. I acknowledge that I have sinful areas in my life, but I also acknowledge that I do sin deliberately. If you were asked to distinguish me from the crowd, I would be no different to the Atheist down the road. Jesus is who he said he was, but that makes little impact in my life. I swear, get drunk some weekends, get into trouble on some occasions...and then turn up to Church, thinking everything's going to be alright.
Can you see the picture forming? Out of 2 Billion Christians, 61% of that number are nominal! It's no wonder the stats show Christianity as #3...and it is also falling. And recalling my opening sentence, what am I? Am I part of the problem? Or am I part of the solution?
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Values in Schools
I seem to be getting into the habit of buying The Press most mornings now, and today's front page had an interesting article.
There are growing concerns over the amount of violence that happens within schools. Verbal abuse at teachers/students alike, bullying, fighting and the like, are common in most schools nowadays. And even parents back up their children's actions! So the Government has proposed to launch a 'curriculum' into teaching good values in schools, to attempt to educate the masses in anti-violence of sorts.
Here's my rebuttal: We used to have such teaching in schools. When I was at primary school we used to have a small slot on Friday morning dedicated to 'Scripture'. Indeed, we have values being taught in schools (that is, until Labour abolished bibles in schools). I also understand that in America, the Ten Commandments have similarly been removed from schools as well.
Two points: First, why did the Government remove bibles in schools in the first place (a point of ignorance from me)? And secondly, what do they propose to replace that gap with? In other words, in teaching 'good' values, what in fact will be taught in this new curriculum?
I know I am biased in writing this post, but the Ten Commandments form the basis of the world's Code of Law systems. Why they were removed is beyond me, for we have seen - and are living through - a society attempting to establish its own foothold bereft of God.
Good luck!
There are growing concerns over the amount of violence that happens within schools. Verbal abuse at teachers/students alike, bullying, fighting and the like, are common in most schools nowadays. And even parents back up their children's actions! So the Government has proposed to launch a 'curriculum' into teaching good values in schools, to attempt to educate the masses in anti-violence of sorts.
Here's my rebuttal: We used to have such teaching in schools. When I was at primary school we used to have a small slot on Friday morning dedicated to 'Scripture'. Indeed, we have values being taught in schools (that is, until Labour abolished bibles in schools). I also understand that in America, the Ten Commandments have similarly been removed from schools as well.
Two points: First, why did the Government remove bibles in schools in the first place (a point of ignorance from me)? And secondly, what do they propose to replace that gap with? In other words, in teaching 'good' values, what in fact will be taught in this new curriculum?
I know I am biased in writing this post, but the Ten Commandments form the basis of the world's Code of Law systems. Why they were removed is beyond me, for we have seen - and are living through - a society attempting to establish its own foothold bereft of God.
Good luck!
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Response: Testing Time...
Thank you for all your prayers =)
No doubt I have also been praying over this as well. I am pleased to say that tonight we (my girlfriend and I) talked, and we are meeting for lunch. From what I gather, things are good between us, but for the most part there will be some sort of discussion/talk. Nothing serious - just how she's been over these past six days.
As for me, I feel somewhat 'liberated' now. Initially I felt very crippled in spirit and that transferred to other facets of my being as well (emotional, physical). Now I feel a little more complete, and am looking forward to this chat tomorrow.
No doubt I have also been praying over this as well. I am pleased to say that tonight we (my girlfriend and I) talked, and we are meeting for lunch. From what I gather, things are good between us, but for the most part there will be some sort of discussion/talk. Nothing serious - just how she's been over these past six days.
As for me, I feel somewhat 'liberated' now. Initially I felt very crippled in spirit and that transferred to other facets of my being as well (emotional, physical). Now I feel a little more complete, and am looking forward to this chat tomorrow.
Monday, August 15, 2005
A Reflection: My Calling
After reading Warwick's post on "Where do I belong", I got thinking about the exact same question. My post stems half from the above, and half from Steve Taylor's message on August 14 morning. Well done Dr. Steve! =)
For a long time, I struggled with what my purpose was in life. Considering I spent the first eighteen years of my life as an Atheist, I never once dwelled on 'purpose'. After I became a Christian, things were, well...pretty cool, until 'purpose' reared its ugly head once again, and this time I couldn't shove it in a box for later.
I am at Bible College because I sincerely believe that I am to become a Pastor under the eyes of God. I see this not only as my calling, but also as the purpose that my life has been designed and made for. That's this half.
Steve was giving a message on the theme of 'gardening', which is ironic because I spent the bulk of Saturday gardening! Anyway, at the end of the message some boxes were passed round the church, containing various gardening tools. I took a hand shovel as mine, and here's why...
Leading up to my decision to go to Bible College, I was up at Hanmer Springs with a group of my friends. My best mate and I shared a room, and when the sun goes down we get into some deep discussions. About life, about God, about anything really. And I outlined what I wanted to do in my 'ministry'.
Going back to Steve's message, the hand shovel symbolised a 'weeder', hence I am a 'weeder' in God's Garden. I want to invest my life not only getting up there and doing the 'preaching thing', but also I want to strengthen fellow Brothers and Sisters, and as such 'weed' out of them the things that choke their walk with Christ.
That is my calling. That is my purpose. And I am looking forward to it!
For a long time, I struggled with what my purpose was in life. Considering I spent the first eighteen years of my life as an Atheist, I never once dwelled on 'purpose'. After I became a Christian, things were, well...pretty cool, until 'purpose' reared its ugly head once again, and this time I couldn't shove it in a box for later.
I am at Bible College because I sincerely believe that I am to become a Pastor under the eyes of God. I see this not only as my calling, but also as the purpose that my life has been designed and made for. That's this half.
Steve was giving a message on the theme of 'gardening', which is ironic because I spent the bulk of Saturday gardening! Anyway, at the end of the message some boxes were passed round the church, containing various gardening tools. I took a hand shovel as mine, and here's why...
Leading up to my decision to go to Bible College, I was up at Hanmer Springs with a group of my friends. My best mate and I shared a room, and when the sun goes down we get into some deep discussions. About life, about God, about anything really. And I outlined what I wanted to do in my 'ministry'.
Going back to Steve's message, the hand shovel symbolised a 'weeder', hence I am a 'weeder' in God's Garden. I want to invest my life not only getting up there and doing the 'preaching thing', but also I want to strengthen fellow Brothers and Sisters, and as such 'weed' out of them the things that choke their walk with Christ.
That is my calling. That is my purpose. And I am looking forward to it!
Testing Time...
I am going through a time of testing.
Tomorrow marks an awesome five months that I have been with my girlfriend. We share an incredibly special and God-blessed relationship, and I wouldn't want to lose that - ever!
The problem is, is that my time of testing is linked with that. I haven't heard from her in four days (I know why for two of the days, but the other two are beyond me), and tomorrow will mark five. I am at wits end on this; I don't quite know what to do. I haven't mustered up the guts to ring up and ask what's up, for on Thursday night I felt that something wasn't quite right, and I feel that that has intensified since then. I know I probably should ring and find out if she's OK. But in saying that, if I ring, what will I find?
It's a tough spot I'm in...will have to keep you posted.
Your prayers would be of great appreciation right about now =)
Tomorrow marks an awesome five months that I have been with my girlfriend. We share an incredibly special and God-blessed relationship, and I wouldn't want to lose that - ever!
The problem is, is that my time of testing is linked with that. I haven't heard from her in four days (I know why for two of the days, but the other two are beyond me), and tomorrow will mark five. I am at wits end on this; I don't quite know what to do. I haven't mustered up the guts to ring up and ask what's up, for on Thursday night I felt that something wasn't quite right, and I feel that that has intensified since then. I know I probably should ring and find out if she's OK. But in saying that, if I ring, what will I find?
It's a tough spot I'm in...will have to keep you posted.
Your prayers would be of great appreciation right about now =)
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Anger: A Theory (Part 2)
(Disclaimer: This is the second part in an overall post. Please read Part 1 to have a better understanding of this post)
Remember my analysis of the Jedi and the Sith in my last post? Let's unpack that further...
Half way in the film, Anakin (while he's still more or less a good guy) confronts the Chancellor with regard to the Dark Side. From this an interesting dialogue happens between the two. It is here that the fundamental tenets of the Sith are revealed:
Chancellor: What are you going to do, kill me?
Anakin: I would very much like to!
Chancellor: I know. I can feel your anger. It gives you focus. Makes you strong!
Anakin instead elects to turn the Chancellor over to the Jedi Council, rather than slash the Chancellor down.
Listening to the tone in Anakin's voice reveals that he is in some sort of "two-worlds" scenario. He is angry, as the Chancellor confirms, yet Anakin wishes not to cut down the Chancellor in cold blood (contrast that with Count Dooku).
Here's what I discovered with anger - or any negative emotion you experience at any one time. When you are angry, your body undergoes a sort of change; a transformation. See if you can relate to any of the following changes:
- Your senses are heightened; you attain focus
- Adrenalin kicks in; you become faster
- You have an unexplainable amount of energy, and somehow you need to apply it somewhere; you become resilient
- Your heart rate has increased dramatically (probably as a result of the adrenalin)
- You feel your entire muscular structure expand; you feel stronger
Now, all these sound like good things. I sure wouldn't mind being faster or stronger, and have all the energy in the world. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Well...not really. Bear in mind that what I have listed are products of anger, and if you really want to have all these 'enhancements', then you have to get yourself incredibly crabby!
But also spare a thought as to what else you get when you become angry. The first is the most obvious: you're angry! But there's more:
- You see the world through the eyes of nothing but hate
- Your mind makes you believe in everything as being bad/wrong
- Your mind also wants you to justify your anger e.g. revenge
- With your expanded muscles, you really want to deck something, or someone
- With no positive (or any) outlet for all this energy, it is stored up, which only builds your anger up within you
- Anger also leads to stress, pain, suffering, and even to heart problems (even death!)
While the first list sounded pretty alright, it is certainly not worth the cost or sacrifice. Noone wants to spend time with a person of hatred or anger, and as a result...you'll become a loner.
Going back to Star Wars again, it is here that the fundamental difference between Jedi and Sith is laid bare. The Jedi are taught to attain those positive things through the measure of self-control! Sith, on the other hand, don't have time to learn the hard lessons of control, and thus choose the "quick and easy path" through anger, because anger instantly grants them those abilities. Whereas Jedi have to train for years on end, to the Sith, maybe a week. Maybe less.
If you are a Christian reading this, did you notice a few changes when you came to know Jesus? Did you find that - over the course of time - you became less and less angry with everything? Did you find yourself learning and exercising self-control? As followers of the coolest ever God to have walked this earth, we are called to become agents of His message, but also His love. This is going to mean sacrifice. Yes, this is going to mean that anger is going to have to be confronted in your life (if it hasn't already been resolved). I write this post as a man who has dealt with an anger problem. I once chose the "quick and easy path" of embracing anger, because it indeed made me feel stronger. But over time, I came to know that Jesus had a different agenda in mind for me. And anger wasn't going to be part of His plan.
I'll end this post with this: Do you want to embrace anger and become strong? Or do you want to embrace Christ and become invincible?
Remember my analysis of the Jedi and the Sith in my last post? Let's unpack that further...
Half way in the film, Anakin (while he's still more or less a good guy) confronts the Chancellor with regard to the Dark Side. From this an interesting dialogue happens between the two. It is here that the fundamental tenets of the Sith are revealed:
Chancellor: What are you going to do, kill me?
Anakin: I would very much like to!
Chancellor: I know. I can feel your anger. It gives you focus. Makes you strong!
Anakin instead elects to turn the Chancellor over to the Jedi Council, rather than slash the Chancellor down.
Listening to the tone in Anakin's voice reveals that he is in some sort of "two-worlds" scenario. He is angry, as the Chancellor confirms, yet Anakin wishes not to cut down the Chancellor in cold blood (contrast that with Count Dooku).
Here's what I discovered with anger - or any negative emotion you experience at any one time. When you are angry, your body undergoes a sort of change; a transformation. See if you can relate to any of the following changes:
- Your senses are heightened; you attain focus
- Adrenalin kicks in; you become faster
- You have an unexplainable amount of energy, and somehow you need to apply it somewhere; you become resilient
- Your heart rate has increased dramatically (probably as a result of the adrenalin)
- You feel your entire muscular structure expand; you feel stronger
Now, all these sound like good things. I sure wouldn't mind being faster or stronger, and have all the energy in the world. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Well...not really. Bear in mind that what I have listed are products of anger, and if you really want to have all these 'enhancements', then you have to get yourself incredibly crabby!
But also spare a thought as to what else you get when you become angry. The first is the most obvious: you're angry! But there's more:
- You see the world through the eyes of nothing but hate
- Your mind makes you believe in everything as being bad/wrong
- Your mind also wants you to justify your anger e.g. revenge
- With your expanded muscles, you really want to deck something, or someone
- With no positive (or any) outlet for all this energy, it is stored up, which only builds your anger up within you
- Anger also leads to stress, pain, suffering, and even to heart problems (even death!)
While the first list sounded pretty alright, it is certainly not worth the cost or sacrifice. Noone wants to spend time with a person of hatred or anger, and as a result...you'll become a loner.
Going back to Star Wars again, it is here that the fundamental difference between Jedi and Sith is laid bare. The Jedi are taught to attain those positive things through the measure of self-control! Sith, on the other hand, don't have time to learn the hard lessons of control, and thus choose the "quick and easy path" through anger, because anger instantly grants them those abilities. Whereas Jedi have to train for years on end, to the Sith, maybe a week. Maybe less.
If you are a Christian reading this, did you notice a few changes when you came to know Jesus? Did you find that - over the course of time - you became less and less angry with everything? Did you find yourself learning and exercising self-control? As followers of the coolest ever God to have walked this earth, we are called to become agents of His message, but also His love. This is going to mean sacrifice. Yes, this is going to mean that anger is going to have to be confronted in your life (if it hasn't already been resolved). I write this post as a man who has dealt with an anger problem. I once chose the "quick and easy path" of embracing anger, because it indeed made me feel stronger. But over time, I came to know that Jesus had a different agenda in mind for me. And anger wasn't going to be part of His plan.
I'll end this post with this: Do you want to embrace anger and become strong? Or do you want to embrace Christ and become invincible?
Anger: A Theory (Part 1)
(Disclaimer: I can see this becoming a large post, so I have split it up into parts)
A long time ago, I learned something about the nature of anger. Nearly all of us know that anger is an emotion. The fair bulk of us know that anger is quite a negative emotion, and that same fair bulk know that anger can cause a man (or woman) to do some destructive things. Now I got thinking about this recently (again), and will present a theory on Anger. Bear with me on this one...
When George Lucas wrote the Star Wars series, he said that his main purpose was so that people could seek after God. As a side issue, a lot of people have sidestepped this, to the point of founding the 'Jedi Religion' in the U.K. However, particularly from Star Wars EP3, there is a lesson we can learn about anger. Of course, I am not advocating Jedi ways, but it is from EP3 that we see the best picture of anger, in its destructive state.
The whole tension in Star Wars is between the Jedi and the Sith. Jedi are people with exceptional reflexes, who have been trained to tap into an impersonal 'force' (think Pantheon). Sith on the other hand, are once-Jedis who have broken off from the Jedi path, and pursue more or less the same skills, but by way of hatred. This is the chief characteristic that separates Jedi from Sith (and in some cases Christians from non-believers). A Jedi is trained to learn the 'ways' by way of a good, positive path. A Sith trains the same way by way of an evil, anger-infested path. Here's the difference: in the movies, Yoda describes the Sith as those who take the "quick, easy path", and warns future Jedi of this. Why does he say this? Hold on to that thought, and let's go back to reality...
It is incredibly easy to become angry. Anything from a piece of paper on the ground, to cutting yourself with a knife, to crashing your car, to being in debt...can cause anyone to be angry. Ever thought how hard it is to bite your lip in the face of animosity? Ever thought why it's so difficult to show love in an unloving situation?
Like the Jedi, we as believers are instructed (thankfully by God, not by an impersonal thing) to be agents of love, not hate. Yes, it is much harder to love. It is far easier to be angry when such situations arise, but dwell on this piece of scripture:
"By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things." - Galatians 5:22-23 NRSV
Note two things:
First, the final 'fruit' is self-control. To 'turn the other cheek', as it were, instead of getting angry is to exercise this self-control. How rewarding!
Second: The first two words read by contrast. Previous to this passage, Paul has written the fruits of what he calls the sinful nature, or the 'flesh'. And 'anger' is listed as one of them.
This presents a challenge to us Christians. A lot of us get frustrated from time to time, and some even to anger. What do we do about this? Will we approach anger as a 'Jedi' (Christlike), or embrace it as a 'Sith' (unbelieving)?
A long time ago, I learned something about the nature of anger. Nearly all of us know that anger is an emotion. The fair bulk of us know that anger is quite a negative emotion, and that same fair bulk know that anger can cause a man (or woman) to do some destructive things. Now I got thinking about this recently (again), and will present a theory on Anger. Bear with me on this one...
When George Lucas wrote the Star Wars series, he said that his main purpose was so that people could seek after God. As a side issue, a lot of people have sidestepped this, to the point of founding the 'Jedi Religion' in the U.K. However, particularly from Star Wars EP3, there is a lesson we can learn about anger. Of course, I am not advocating Jedi ways, but it is from EP3 that we see the best picture of anger, in its destructive state.
The whole tension in Star Wars is between the Jedi and the Sith. Jedi are people with exceptional reflexes, who have been trained to tap into an impersonal 'force' (think Pantheon). Sith on the other hand, are once-Jedis who have broken off from the Jedi path, and pursue more or less the same skills, but by way of hatred. This is the chief characteristic that separates Jedi from Sith (and in some cases Christians from non-believers). A Jedi is trained to learn the 'ways' by way of a good, positive path. A Sith trains the same way by way of an evil, anger-infested path. Here's the difference: in the movies, Yoda describes the Sith as those who take the "quick, easy path", and warns future Jedi of this. Why does he say this? Hold on to that thought, and let's go back to reality...
It is incredibly easy to become angry. Anything from a piece of paper on the ground, to cutting yourself with a knife, to crashing your car, to being in debt...can cause anyone to be angry. Ever thought how hard it is to bite your lip in the face of animosity? Ever thought why it's so difficult to show love in an unloving situation?
Like the Jedi, we as believers are instructed (thankfully by God, not by an impersonal thing) to be agents of love, not hate. Yes, it is much harder to love. It is far easier to be angry when such situations arise, but dwell on this piece of scripture:
"By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things." - Galatians 5:22-23 NRSV
Note two things:
First, the final 'fruit' is self-control. To 'turn the other cheek', as it were, instead of getting angry is to exercise this self-control. How rewarding!
Second: The first two words read by contrast. Previous to this passage, Paul has written the fruits of what he calls the sinful nature, or the 'flesh'. And 'anger' is listed as one of them.
This presents a challenge to us Christians. A lot of us get frustrated from time to time, and some even to anger. What do we do about this? Will we approach anger as a 'Jedi' (Christlike), or embrace it as a 'Sith' (unbelieving)?
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
How big is your God?
Today was a long day (as Tuesdays usually are) for me at Bible College: three lectures, from 10am to 9pm. It was my third and final class that has inspired this particular post. It's an issue I've heard time and again, and here it is, in blog format.
How big is your God? Not in the sense of some graven image or 'idol', but in the sense of your own faith in Jesus. If you are a Christian, how big is your God? Now most will answer with a resounding "BIG", which is cool. But isn't it interesting that a lot of Christians don't believe in half the miraculous wonders that are found in the Bible? For example, in my last class of the evening, we touched briefly on the Book of Jonah. You know the story:
- A guy is called to preach to Nineveh
- He runs off in the opposite direction
- He gets caught in a storm
- He gets eaten by a giant fish, and then gets spewed on dry land three days later.
- God calls him again; this time the aforementioned guy agrees, goes to Nineveh.
Most people have a problem with the content of this book. How can a guy get eaten by a fish? How can the guy survive in there? And what's with that fast-growing bush? That doesn't happen in my garden.
You get the idea...miracle after miracle is found in the Book of Jonah. But why is it so difficult to accept that God can do the stuff he did with Jonah? Is this not the same God who created the Universe? If God can create our entire Universe (which we believe), work signs and wonders through Jesus (which we believe), as well as a chosen few following Jesus' life (which we also believe), then why can we not stomach Jonah? Granted, we don't hear a lot of stories about people living in fish stomachs. But that's not to say that God cannot do it. He did it with Jonah, after all. And he did some pretty amazing things through Moses - the parting of the Red Sea comes to mind.
So I ask you again: How big is your God? When you read your Bible, do you meet with an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God who wants to know you? Or do you meet with the God that you stuff in your pocket, because he "fits well" with your ideas?
Let us remember in prayer and faith that God is far bigger than any of us, and anything less is to reduce God to a mere idol.
Let's not make that mistake. Just because we seldom see the miraculous, doesn't mean to say that it doesn't happen.
How big is your God? Not in the sense of some graven image or 'idol', but in the sense of your own faith in Jesus. If you are a Christian, how big is your God? Now most will answer with a resounding "BIG", which is cool. But isn't it interesting that a lot of Christians don't believe in half the miraculous wonders that are found in the Bible? For example, in my last class of the evening, we touched briefly on the Book of Jonah. You know the story:
- A guy is called to preach to Nineveh
- He runs off in the opposite direction
- He gets caught in a storm
- He gets eaten by a giant fish, and then gets spewed on dry land three days later.
- God calls him again; this time the aforementioned guy agrees, goes to Nineveh.
Most people have a problem with the content of this book. How can a guy get eaten by a fish? How can the guy survive in there? And what's with that fast-growing bush? That doesn't happen in my garden.
You get the idea...miracle after miracle is found in the Book of Jonah. But why is it so difficult to accept that God can do the stuff he did with Jonah? Is this not the same God who created the Universe? If God can create our entire Universe (which we believe), work signs and wonders through Jesus (which we believe), as well as a chosen few following Jesus' life (which we also believe), then why can we not stomach Jonah? Granted, we don't hear a lot of stories about people living in fish stomachs. But that's not to say that God cannot do it. He did it with Jonah, after all. And he did some pretty amazing things through Moses - the parting of the Red Sea comes to mind.
So I ask you again: How big is your God? When you read your Bible, do you meet with an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God who wants to know you? Or do you meet with the God that you stuff in your pocket, because he "fits well" with your ideas?
Let us remember in prayer and faith that God is far bigger than any of us, and anything less is to reduce God to a mere idol.
Let's not make that mistake. Just because we seldom see the miraculous, doesn't mean to say that it doesn't happen.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Maximized Manhood
Today for me marked an historic day for my spiritual (as well as personal) growth. Many of you may have heard of this course. Many of you may have not.
Maximized Manhood is a course that is run through most churches. Basically, it revolves around men's small groups, teaching men how to actually be men. Maximized Manhood (M.M.) focuses on a lot of issues that face today's men. Issues such as sex sins, idolatry, lust, temptation, greed, slander, pride...even masturbation isn't ignored in this course. If you are a male seeking to not only know God in a new and powerful way, but also seeking to know yourself and what it means to become a godly man, then M.M. I would wholeheartedly recommend to you. Try this: If you are a male, can you answer this simple one-liner?
When does a Boy become a Man?
This question - and many others - are found, tackled, and discussed in a small group that for me, meets every second Monday. Tonight was the first night of M.M., and I have been looking forward to it (have been for two years), and so can't wait to go back there in two weeks!
By the way, if you decide to post comments to this post, feel free to also post your answer to the question I asked earlier. Certainly worth thinking about...
Maximized Manhood is a course that is run through most churches. Basically, it revolves around men's small groups, teaching men how to actually be men. Maximized Manhood (M.M.) focuses on a lot of issues that face today's men. Issues such as sex sins, idolatry, lust, temptation, greed, slander, pride...even masturbation isn't ignored in this course. If you are a male seeking to not only know God in a new and powerful way, but also seeking to know yourself and what it means to become a godly man, then M.M. I would wholeheartedly recommend to you. Try this: If you are a male, can you answer this simple one-liner?
When does a Boy become a Man?
This question - and many others - are found, tackled, and discussed in a small group that for me, meets every second Monday. Tonight was the first night of M.M., and I have been looking forward to it (have been for two years), and so can't wait to go back there in two weeks!
By the way, if you decide to post comments to this post, feel free to also post your answer to the question I asked earlier. Certainly worth thinking about...
Friday, August 05, 2005
Bill Shepard's a Ninny!
And I really don't care if he's reading this ;-)
I've been reading my workmate's newspaper whilst been at work (on breaks of course). I pinch sections A and B (News and World) from him at lunch, mainly for the letters in A. Recently, a man by the name of Bill Shepard has been criticized for his comments regarding Islam and Christianity. After reading these letters, I feel I must add my blurb, going back to a report on Campbell Live...
John Campbell gave a 10-minute slot on "Is there a link between Islam and Terrorism?" To aid his investigation, he had the aforementioned person, who is former Religious Studies Dean/Lecturer at Massey University. What went from the title of the news story turned quickly into a "Christianity's wrong, everyone else is right" gripe. Here's some comments from Shepard as quoted (paraphrase) on Campbell Live, along with my rebuttals. Read on!
The Bible and the Koran were written in the same time period: Not true! The Koran came to being in 600A.D., whereas the Bible existed 2000 years previous! The Old Testament scriptures alone have a thousand years on the Koran.
The Bible and Koran were written in the same culture settings: Not true also. This echoes my previous answer; vastly different time frames equate also for different culture backgrounds to emerge. Considering well before Christ (much less the Koran), civilizations rose and fell, along with their cultures.
The Old Testament stories are similar to the war verses in the Koran: This is where my doubts about Shepard's scholarship entered. Granted, there are a lot of gross stories in the Old Testament, but Shepard has grossly misinterpreted the Old Testament here. Any scholar worth their salt would know that the O.T. atrocities are in fact acts of judgment, brought out by a righteous God on a vastly sinful people. Westerners won't think of it that way, but if you go through the O.T., all of the 'wars' are centered around God judging a grossly sinful people, using Israel as His tool of judgment. Also, read Deuteronomy chapter 20 for the Rules of War handed to the Israelites from God - it calls into question who really got killed in the wars anyway (not women and children, that's for sure).
In the end, I felt that this news report lacked any credible research by both Campbell and Shepard. Sorry guys - you did poorly! I would have expected a lecturer of Religious Studies to have done his or her homework, but I guess I expected too much.
I've been reading my workmate's newspaper whilst been at work (on breaks of course). I pinch sections A and B (News and World) from him at lunch, mainly for the letters in A. Recently, a man by the name of Bill Shepard has been criticized for his comments regarding Islam and Christianity. After reading these letters, I feel I must add my blurb, going back to a report on Campbell Live...
John Campbell gave a 10-minute slot on "Is there a link between Islam and Terrorism?" To aid his investigation, he had the aforementioned person, who is former Religious Studies Dean/Lecturer at Massey University. What went from the title of the news story turned quickly into a "Christianity's wrong, everyone else is right" gripe. Here's some comments from Shepard as quoted (paraphrase) on Campbell Live, along with my rebuttals. Read on!
The Bible and the Koran were written in the same time period: Not true! The Koran came to being in 600A.D., whereas the Bible existed 2000 years previous! The Old Testament scriptures alone have a thousand years on the Koran.
The Bible and Koran were written in the same culture settings: Not true also. This echoes my previous answer; vastly different time frames equate also for different culture backgrounds to emerge. Considering well before Christ (much less the Koran), civilizations rose and fell, along with their cultures.
The Old Testament stories are similar to the war verses in the Koran: This is where my doubts about Shepard's scholarship entered. Granted, there are a lot of gross stories in the Old Testament, but Shepard has grossly misinterpreted the Old Testament here. Any scholar worth their salt would know that the O.T. atrocities are in fact acts of judgment, brought out by a righteous God on a vastly sinful people. Westerners won't think of it that way, but if you go through the O.T., all of the 'wars' are centered around God judging a grossly sinful people, using Israel as His tool of judgment. Also, read Deuteronomy chapter 20 for the Rules of War handed to the Israelites from God - it calls into question who really got killed in the wars anyway (not women and children, that's for sure).
In the end, I felt that this news report lacked any credible research by both Campbell and Shepard. Sorry guys - you did poorly! I would have expected a lecturer of Religious Studies to have done his or her homework, but I guess I expected too much.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
A Personal Reflection on my past...
Y'know, I've come a long way in the past five years. Every time I think on this, it always makes me laugh. Not a laugh that is to say someone cracked a joke, but a laugh to say "woah - that was me?"
For those of you who have scanned my profile will know that I wasn't always a Christian. In fact, five years ago, Religion could stick it. I didn't want a bar of anything to do with God, and this stuff about Jesus was all folklore to me. If you are a non-believer reading this, you can easily relate to my past. Perhaps you can tell me that most weekends, you (or a mate of yours) throw a party. There's copious amounts of booze and spirits, lots of guys and girls, and no parents. The perfect weekend, wouldn't you say?
That was me, particularly when I was 15-18. I would go to a party, absolutely trash myself stupid (I could drink a whole bottle of Vodka and not puke), and try to get with some girl. How many parties have I been to? Lots. How many times have I gotten drunk? Too many times to count. Could you say I was an Atheist? Definitely. After all, I grew up in a divorced household that also couldn't give two shoots about Church. Were my teenage years wasted? You bet!
In a way, it's tragic that I write that last sentence, yet this is me, now 22 years of age, reflecting on my past. I know full well that I cannot change anything of my teenage years; I must live with what I've done. Do you, the reader, feel the same way? Sure, the beer and vodka are good at the time, but believe me - you're wasting your time and your money. There's far more to life than alcohol, cigarettes, and sex. You may or may not be scoffing at me right now. Fair enough. But ask yourself these two questions, and I'm ready to bet you'll get two very separate answers:
- Where do you want to be in five years from now?
- Where do you see yourself currently five years from now?
Don't make the same mistakes I did. Sure, I've learnt from them. As my profile says, I no longer drink. I've destroyed my Atheism completely. I grew up as an utter skeptic, and find that Jesus is who he says he is.
Reader, He is risen! He is alive and well, and waiting for you. And you, just as I did five years ago, can have a second chance at a far better life than this.
Please think about it...
For those of you who have scanned my profile will know that I wasn't always a Christian. In fact, five years ago, Religion could stick it. I didn't want a bar of anything to do with God, and this stuff about Jesus was all folklore to me. If you are a non-believer reading this, you can easily relate to my past. Perhaps you can tell me that most weekends, you (or a mate of yours) throw a party. There's copious amounts of booze and spirits, lots of guys and girls, and no parents. The perfect weekend, wouldn't you say?
That was me, particularly when I was 15-18. I would go to a party, absolutely trash myself stupid (I could drink a whole bottle of Vodka and not puke), and try to get with some girl. How many parties have I been to? Lots. How many times have I gotten drunk? Too many times to count. Could you say I was an Atheist? Definitely. After all, I grew up in a divorced household that also couldn't give two shoots about Church. Were my teenage years wasted? You bet!
In a way, it's tragic that I write that last sentence, yet this is me, now 22 years of age, reflecting on my past. I know full well that I cannot change anything of my teenage years; I must live with what I've done. Do you, the reader, feel the same way? Sure, the beer and vodka are good at the time, but believe me - you're wasting your time and your money. There's far more to life than alcohol, cigarettes, and sex. You may or may not be scoffing at me right now. Fair enough. But ask yourself these two questions, and I'm ready to bet you'll get two very separate answers:
- Where do you want to be in five years from now?
- Where do you see yourself currently five years from now?
Don't make the same mistakes I did. Sure, I've learnt from them. As my profile says, I no longer drink. I've destroyed my Atheism completely. I grew up as an utter skeptic, and find that Jesus is who he says he is.
Reader, He is risen! He is alive and well, and waiting for you. And you, just as I did five years ago, can have a second chance at a far better life than this.
Please think about it...
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Of Christ and Politics
A very interesting home group I had tonight. Supposedly, one of our members (we have about nine in our home group) was to give a kind of "run-down" on the up and coming Election. Unfortunately, she was away at a meeting of some sort, so it was me and three others in the lounge, discussing the election. Flip, what an interesting discussion we had - for two hours - and this post outlines what really stood out from our nutting out.
What first struck me is that Dave (our home group leader) made the comment that New Zealand, and New Zealanders in general, compare ourselves with Australia too much, almost to the point where the Government is trying to be like Australia. Moreover, one of the current issues that Politicians struggle with is the fact that so many post-graduates shift to Australia, apparently for better pay packets. Interestingly, Dave outlined that economically we are better off in New Zealand. Sure, the money may be only slightly higher across the ditch, but you have to also weigh into the matter how much money is extracted as tax, of which is much higher over there than here. Also, in Australia, to change ownership of a home will cost you $35000 (to the Government), whereas New Zealand has no such cost. Labourers going over to Australia are more likely to benefit, due to the strong working unions over there, but a Labourer is hardly going to have a mammoth loan on his or her back, next to a Doctor. Most often the reason people leave to Aussie is the climate. Sure, it's warmer over there, but economically New Zealand is the place to be. OK, so the overall salaries aren't as high - if only just - but there is a heck of a lot less taxation in New Zealand. In fact, more likely those fleeing to Australia in the hope of higher income end up coming back to New Zealand anyway.
My advice? Save yourself the plane ticket - stay!
Secondly comes the next big issue - who to vote for. For me, I know two groups that I am not going to vote for. One of these groups is Labour. To the best of my understanding, I myself haven't seen the benefits of what a Labour Government under Helen Clark has had to offer New Zealand. She's scrapped our Strike Force (and the taxpayers are paying MORE to keep the Skyhawks in the hangars. Just scrap 'em!), and hasn't offered a proposal for a replacement. Perhaps - being an island nation - she should look at Naval options? My next comment is going to get a few backs up, but hear me out...scrap race-related funding. No, I am not a Racist by any means. But can you imagine the uproar if the average New Zealand European (the "whiteys") started up a particular thing just for white people? But does it not strike a chord with you that there is this race inequality? The Government - and New Zealand as a whole - needs to step up and finalise this one issue: New Zealanders are New Zealanders. End of story! Not one race or the other (isn't that what Apartheid was all about?), but one nation. New Zealand. New Zealanders.
Labour also hasn't contributed very well to social engineering. Prostitution, Brothels, Civil Unions, PC...I could go on. We don't even know what a family unit is any more!
The other group that won't get my vote are any Christian parties out there. Yes, you read correctly. I say this for this one basic reason: if they cannot work together under one Christian banner, then they aren't worth the vote. Destiny NZ has spoken out and said that they won't work with other Christian parties. Why is that? Because they, like the rest, have their own agenda. And they don't want teamwork to spoil the fun. Sound harsh? Perhaps it does, but if you want to silence this harshness, you will need to turn a blind eye to what's happening out there.
What first struck me is that Dave (our home group leader) made the comment that New Zealand, and New Zealanders in general, compare ourselves with Australia too much, almost to the point where the Government is trying to be like Australia. Moreover, one of the current issues that Politicians struggle with is the fact that so many post-graduates shift to Australia, apparently for better pay packets. Interestingly, Dave outlined that economically we are better off in New Zealand. Sure, the money may be only slightly higher across the ditch, but you have to also weigh into the matter how much money is extracted as tax, of which is much higher over there than here. Also, in Australia, to change ownership of a home will cost you $35000 (to the Government), whereas New Zealand has no such cost. Labourers going over to Australia are more likely to benefit, due to the strong working unions over there, but a Labourer is hardly going to have a mammoth loan on his or her back, next to a Doctor. Most often the reason people leave to Aussie is the climate. Sure, it's warmer over there, but economically New Zealand is the place to be. OK, so the overall salaries aren't as high - if only just - but there is a heck of a lot less taxation in New Zealand. In fact, more likely those fleeing to Australia in the hope of higher income end up coming back to New Zealand anyway.
My advice? Save yourself the plane ticket - stay!
Secondly comes the next big issue - who to vote for. For me, I know two groups that I am not going to vote for. One of these groups is Labour. To the best of my understanding, I myself haven't seen the benefits of what a Labour Government under Helen Clark has had to offer New Zealand. She's scrapped our Strike Force (and the taxpayers are paying MORE to keep the Skyhawks in the hangars. Just scrap 'em!), and hasn't offered a proposal for a replacement. Perhaps - being an island nation - she should look at Naval options? My next comment is going to get a few backs up, but hear me out...scrap race-related funding. No, I am not a Racist by any means. But can you imagine the uproar if the average New Zealand European (the "whiteys") started up a particular thing just for white people? But does it not strike a chord with you that there is this race inequality? The Government - and New Zealand as a whole - needs to step up and finalise this one issue: New Zealanders are New Zealanders. End of story! Not one race or the other (isn't that what Apartheid was all about?), but one nation. New Zealand. New Zealanders.
Labour also hasn't contributed very well to social engineering. Prostitution, Brothels, Civil Unions, PC...I could go on. We don't even know what a family unit is any more!
The other group that won't get my vote are any Christian parties out there. Yes, you read correctly. I say this for this one basic reason: if they cannot work together under one Christian banner, then they aren't worth the vote. Destiny NZ has spoken out and said that they won't work with other Christian parties. Why is that? Because they, like the rest, have their own agenda. And they don't want teamwork to spoil the fun. Sound harsh? Perhaps it does, but if you want to silence this harshness, you will need to turn a blind eye to what's happening out there.
The GenX Mentality of Work
Today was a pretty interesting day, or at least as far as the morning goes.
Had a lunch at Bible College to go to (loads of food for a measly $2), and after passing the Bus Exchange a young fella in a suit boarded the bus, and what was striking was that he was carrying a bright pink bag. He introduced himself (talking to me as if he knew who I was...), and opened his bag to show me his "finest wares". You got it - he was a salesman! Anyway, I told him that I was a student and had no money, but still wanted to see what he had. After all that was said and done, he told me that he'd started his new sales pitch a week ago, which is where the 'meat' of this Blog is focused...
He said that prior to his current sales job, he'd worked as a Landscape Hand, shovelling dirt, digging, and well...doing a lot of physical outdoors stuff (I myself have worked as an engineering labourer so I could sympathise). He said that he didn't like all the physicals, and instead got into this sales job. As he put it: "I'm earning more and working less". Now that I found staggering, and here's why...
A few decades ago, some learned fellow predicted that by our time we'd be living in what would be known as the "Age of Leisure". Our technological prowess would allow humans to work less, earn more, and thus have more time to do whatever we wanted. Instead, technology has gone the opposite; we are working more hours for roughly the same pay packet each week. Because of the increase in physical labour, people - particularly the up-and-coming high school leavers - would indeed rather work scant hours and expect the same amount of wage that a blue-collar worker would get.
Are people out there uncontent with their pay? Or would we rather sit on our laurels and wait for large sums of cash to come to us?
And of course, what are our reasons for working? Are we merely interested in the weekly wage? Or are we there to redeem our workplaces? Worth thinking about...
Oh, and a quick word to those seeking more cash for less time: You can have your money, but you can't take it with you.
Had a lunch at Bible College to go to (loads of food for a measly $2), and after passing the Bus Exchange a young fella in a suit boarded the bus, and what was striking was that he was carrying a bright pink bag. He introduced himself (talking to me as if he knew who I was...), and opened his bag to show me his "finest wares". You got it - he was a salesman! Anyway, I told him that I was a student and had no money, but still wanted to see what he had. After all that was said and done, he told me that he'd started his new sales pitch a week ago, which is where the 'meat' of this Blog is focused...
He said that prior to his current sales job, he'd worked as a Landscape Hand, shovelling dirt, digging, and well...doing a lot of physical outdoors stuff (I myself have worked as an engineering labourer so I could sympathise). He said that he didn't like all the physicals, and instead got into this sales job. As he put it: "I'm earning more and working less". Now that I found staggering, and here's why...
A few decades ago, some learned fellow predicted that by our time we'd be living in what would be known as the "Age of Leisure". Our technological prowess would allow humans to work less, earn more, and thus have more time to do whatever we wanted. Instead, technology has gone the opposite; we are working more hours for roughly the same pay packet each week. Because of the increase in physical labour, people - particularly the up-and-coming high school leavers - would indeed rather work scant hours and expect the same amount of wage that a blue-collar worker would get.
Are people out there uncontent with their pay? Or would we rather sit on our laurels and wait for large sums of cash to come to us?
And of course, what are our reasons for working? Are we merely interested in the weekly wage? Or are we there to redeem our workplaces? Worth thinking about...
Oh, and a quick word to those seeking more cash for less time: You can have your money, but you can't take it with you.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
My First Blog (A Test)
Greetings to you =)
Welcome to my Blog, which will hopefully become something of an online journal. In here I'll be posting various thoughts, encounters, experiences and the like, that will come my way in my life. To be honest, I've never kept a journal of any kind, so this is quite a jump for me. Not only am I starting one, I also have the arduous task of trying to keep it up to date!
While this Blog is primarily for my own reflection and journey in my growth in God, I'm sure I'll end up sticking up posts with various worldviews and issues that I find fascinating enough to, well...stick up here really. I hope that readers of my Blog may find something enriching (or at the very least of interest) as they too write their own journey in life.
Yours in Christ...
Welcome to my Blog, which will hopefully become something of an online journal. In here I'll be posting various thoughts, encounters, experiences and the like, that will come my way in my life. To be honest, I've never kept a journal of any kind, so this is quite a jump for me. Not only am I starting one, I also have the arduous task of trying to keep it up to date!
While this Blog is primarily for my own reflection and journey in my growth in God, I'm sure I'll end up sticking up posts with various worldviews and issues that I find fascinating enough to, well...stick up here really. I hope that readers of my Blog may find something enriching (or at the very least of interest) as they too write their own journey in life.
Yours in Christ...
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