We’ve just got back from our Christmas break. We spent a week with Jane’s Mum and Dad and also her sister and husband who are over from Perth, Australia. We stayed in a quaint cottage down in the lovely village of Caldecott, Rutland. We had snow....so it was a real Christmas experience - along with all the great food and family debates!
We saw the Chronicles of Narnia while we were away....a great family film – I really enjoyed it.
Great to be back....happy new year to everyone!
Friday, December 30, 2005
Thursday, December 22, 2005
King Kong
Saw it last night. A great film...although at 3 hours it seemed a tad too long. I also felt I should have been a little more emotional at the end but I still couldn't bring myself to shed a tear for a 50 foot Gorilla...now a 3 foot Hobbit, well that's a different thing altogether!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Movies over Christmas
Looking forward to going to see a couple of films over Christmas. First up will be the new King Kong film and then closely followed by the Chronicles of Narnia, the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Early reviews suggest I’m going to enjoy the Kong film the most, but we’ll see...
Early reviews suggest I’m going to enjoy the Kong film the most, but we’ll see...
Monday, December 12, 2005
Your Burning Bush
Here’s a summary of my notes from another great message from Paul Benger in church last night. Paul spoke on having our own burning bush experience a la Moses. Main text: Exodus 3:1-18
Moses spent 40 years in the backside of the desert. He had been groomed to be a Pharaoh. I wonder if Moses thought a lot about missed opportunities? He questioned God on who he was. ‘Who am I?’
One of the questions many people are asking in life, ‘Do I matter to anyone?’
Even with Moses’ low self-esteem, God is still saying – ‘He is the one’. Even though he thought he’d blown it, God stayed with him! Never think you’ve blown it – God will find a way!
Three things from which the world gets it’s WORTH:
Style – Appearance and fashion. Proverbs 31:30 – Beauty does not last! Nothing wrong with wanting to look good, but it’s not where we get our self-worth.
Status – Keeping up with the Jones’ – not the place where we get our value.
Success – God wants us to do well, but again it’s not where we get our significance. Only in God. Knowing him and knowing his forgiveness.
Moses had all 3 when in Egypt – lost them all in a minute! Even so God still had Moses and Moses still had God.
3 things we need to know about the burning bush experience…
1) God calls you
He is not a silent God – he speaks to us. We need to be ready to hear what God is saying about our lives. Be in church the place where we can find out what God is saying!
2) Where you are right now is holy ground
Where God is – his presence. You might not feel it, just like Moses. But He is with us.
3) It’s time to discover who you are and who God is
Moses asked (vs 11) – Who am I?
And (vs 13) – Who shall I tell them sent me?
Realise who God is – Almighty, awesome God who can do all things! ‘I am who I am’
Realise who you are – God is intimately, infinitely involved in our lives!
Know Who You Are (Paul’s Top 10):
I am CREATED
I am CHOSEN
I am PROTECTED
I am COMPLETE
I am VICTORIOUS
I am SAVED
I am FORGIVEN
I am FREE
I am LOVED
I am ACCEPTED
Moses spent 40 years in the backside of the desert. He had been groomed to be a Pharaoh. I wonder if Moses thought a lot about missed opportunities? He questioned God on who he was. ‘Who am I?’
One of the questions many people are asking in life, ‘Do I matter to anyone?’
Even with Moses’ low self-esteem, God is still saying – ‘He is the one’. Even though he thought he’d blown it, God stayed with him! Never think you’ve blown it – God will find a way!
Three things from which the world gets it’s WORTH:
Style – Appearance and fashion. Proverbs 31:30 – Beauty does not last! Nothing wrong with wanting to look good, but it’s not where we get our self-worth.
Status – Keeping up with the Jones’ – not the place where we get our value.
Success – God wants us to do well, but again it’s not where we get our significance. Only in God. Knowing him and knowing his forgiveness.
Moses had all 3 when in Egypt – lost them all in a minute! Even so God still had Moses and Moses still had God.
3 things we need to know about the burning bush experience…
1) God calls you
He is not a silent God – he speaks to us. We need to be ready to hear what God is saying about our lives. Be in church the place where we can find out what God is saying!
2) Where you are right now is holy ground
Where God is – his presence. You might not feel it, just like Moses. But He is with us.
3) It’s time to discover who you are and who God is
Moses asked (vs 11) – Who am I?
And (vs 13) – Who shall I tell them sent me?
Realise who God is – Almighty, awesome God who can do all things! ‘I am who I am’
Realise who you are – God is intimately, infinitely involved in our lives!
Know Who You Are (Paul’s Top 10):
I am CREATED
I am CHOSEN
I am PROTECTED
I am COMPLETE
I am VICTORIOUS
I am SAVED
I am FORGIVEN
I am FREE
I am LOVED
I am ACCEPTED
Saturday, December 10, 2005
ON YOUR MARKS!
Good news on the London Marathon front, after receiving confirmation the other day that my name had not been selected in the ballot - I’ve just received a call from the local Hospice (Ashgate, Chesterfield) and they’ve asked me to run for them!
I’d been a little disappointed in not gaining an automatic place...but after reading the LM magazine and seeing one of the charity pages (Help the Hospices) I decided to try another door, as it were. I was always going to make it an opportunity to raise some money for a great cause and so my goal has still been achieved (in a roundabout way!)
I want to raise as much money as possible for the Hospice. They do a fantastic work of which we’ve had experience of in recent years after the death of my brother-in-law Mark Loveday a few years ago. We spent a number of weeks with him in the local hospice down in Gravesend, Kent. This run will be mainly for him who I know would have been very proud of what I’ve achieved in the last couple of years. The London Marathon will be run on 23rd April...almost 5 years to the day since Mark passed away.
My running mate, Rob, will be running with me. He got an automatic place...and has promised to help raise money with me.
I’m also thinking about setting up another blog to keep track of my training progress, monies raised so far etc. There will also be a link to my ‘Just-Giving’ site where monies can be donated/pledged. So...
WATCH THIS SPACE!
I’d been a little disappointed in not gaining an automatic place...but after reading the LM magazine and seeing one of the charity pages (Help the Hospices) I decided to try another door, as it were. I was always going to make it an opportunity to raise some money for a great cause and so my goal has still been achieved (in a roundabout way!)
I want to raise as much money as possible for the Hospice. They do a fantastic work of which we’ve had experience of in recent years after the death of my brother-in-law Mark Loveday a few years ago. We spent a number of weeks with him in the local hospice down in Gravesend, Kent. This run will be mainly for him who I know would have been very proud of what I’ve achieved in the last couple of years. The London Marathon will be run on 23rd April...almost 5 years to the day since Mark passed away.
My running mate, Rob, will be running with me. He got an automatic place...and has promised to help raise money with me.
I’m also thinking about setting up another blog to keep track of my training progress, monies raised so far etc. There will also be a link to my ‘Just-Giving’ site where monies can be donated/pledged. So...
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Friday, December 09, 2005
Ashes Rematch?
The England coach Eriksson admits he would rather avoid the "English speaking countries" such as Australia and the United States.
"They are desperate to beat England in a big tournament, which is why I don't want to play them," he said. "But there is a wider aspect to Australia, there is a sporting rivalry between the two countries. What I saw during the summer in the cricket was amazing."
Read on
"They are desperate to beat England in a big tournament, which is why I don't want to play them," he said. "But there is a wider aspect to Australia, there is a sporting rivalry between the two countries. What I saw during the summer in the cricket was amazing."
Read on
Monday, December 05, 2005
Blessed! Part II
Last night in church, Paul Benger continued our series and spoke a great message on the Foundations of Blessing.
We looked at the ‘blessed man’ in Psalm 112. He mentioned that the blessed man had no name, that it could be anyone....it could even be YOU!
As we read the bible we cannot escape the fact that God has blessed us, and it’s not because of what I can do for God but because of what He had done! Faith says it’s not what I’ve done – but what God has done.
The foundation of blessing is God himself. God created us for relationship, fellowship and blessing – right from the beginning. God’s position has always been, ‘I want to bless my people’.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live!
We have a choice to make. We need to reposition ourselves. Choose God’s way…
Psalm 112:1 - Fear the Lord
Not being afraid of God but having reverence, respect, putting Him first. Is God first in your life? To fear God takes faith. Are you faith-filled or faith-drained?
God wants to bless you...make God first in your life. Plant the seed that produces faith in your life. We cannot induce faith, we need to sow the seed, search God’s word. Romans 10:17 - Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Promises for fearing the Lord…
Psalm 112:2-4 – Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will never be forgotten. When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
Our past does not dictate our future. God’s grace gives us a brand new start!
The blessed man is fearless and confident - trusting in God.
Psalm 112:7-8 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
We looked at the ‘blessed man’ in Psalm 112. He mentioned that the blessed man had no name, that it could be anyone....it could even be YOU!
As we read the bible we cannot escape the fact that God has blessed us, and it’s not because of what I can do for God but because of what He had done! Faith says it’s not what I’ve done – but what God has done.
The foundation of blessing is God himself. God created us for relationship, fellowship and blessing – right from the beginning. God’s position has always been, ‘I want to bless my people’.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live!
We have a choice to make. We need to reposition ourselves. Choose God’s way…
Psalm 112:1 - Fear the Lord
Not being afraid of God but having reverence, respect, putting Him first. Is God first in your life? To fear God takes faith. Are you faith-filled or faith-drained?
God wants to bless you...make God first in your life. Plant the seed that produces faith in your life. We cannot induce faith, we need to sow the seed, search God’s word. Romans 10:17 - Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Promises for fearing the Lord…
Psalm 112:2-4 – Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will never be forgotten. When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
Our past does not dictate our future. God’s grace gives us a brand new start!
The blessed man is fearless and confident - trusting in God.
Psalm 112:7-8 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Blessed! Part I
We began our new series in church on Sunday night on the subject of what it is to be blessed! I kicked off with the whole subject of ‘blessed are those who dwell in your house’ (Psalm 84:4)
It is God’s will for our lives to be blessed to flourish...to grow! God loves you and wants the very best for you!
The psalmist knows what he needs for happiness. Happiness, for him, is being in God's house!
Psalm 84:10 - Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
There are those who attend church who never reach full potential, don’t really grow. As well as dwelling in the House of God…the key is being planted!
Psalm 92:12-15 – (12) The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; (13) planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. (14) They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, (15) proclaiming, "The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him."
Not those who just attend…but those who are planted! Put down our roots, be watered/fed…and watch God make us grow! Not uprooted – moving from place to place, but planted/rooted in local church. Only then will we grow!
Here Psalm 92 it tells us the key to a productive and flourishing life is to be planted in the church. The house of God is the church - the pillar and foundation of truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
We have to remember the church is not a place you go to, but it’s a place you belong.
4 Steps to being truly planted in the Church
1) Be a member of the household
Ephesians 2:19 - ‘Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household’.
2) Form Friendships
The church in Acts came together often and shared. They developed relationships. They developed the family.
Connect yourselves with others. We have to make time for each other. Church is more than Sundays; we need to make an effort to meet up regularly at other times.
3) Build Partnerships
1 Corinthians 3:9 - For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.
We need to work together! There is a corporate anointing when we come together. When we gather together, when we serve each other.
4) Love people (Kinship)
1 John 3:16 – This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers
If you love Jesus, you will also love other people. You can’t say you love God and hate people at the same time.
Be blessed! Get planted!
It is God’s will for our lives to be blessed to flourish...to grow! God loves you and wants the very best for you!
The psalmist knows what he needs for happiness. Happiness, for him, is being in God's house!
Psalm 84:10 - Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
There are those who attend church who never reach full potential, don’t really grow. As well as dwelling in the House of God…the key is being planted!
Psalm 92:12-15 – (12) The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; (13) planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. (14) They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, (15) proclaiming, "The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him."
Not those who just attend…but those who are planted! Put down our roots, be watered/fed…and watch God make us grow! Not uprooted – moving from place to place, but planted/rooted in local church. Only then will we grow!
Here Psalm 92 it tells us the key to a productive and flourishing life is to be planted in the church. The house of God is the church - the pillar and foundation of truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
We have to remember the church is not a place you go to, but it’s a place you belong.
4 Steps to being truly planted in the Church
1) Be a member of the household
Ephesians 2:19 - ‘Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household’.
2) Form Friendships
The church in Acts came together often and shared. They developed relationships. They developed the family.
Connect yourselves with others. We have to make time for each other. Church is more than Sundays; we need to make an effort to meet up regularly at other times.
3) Build Partnerships
1 Corinthians 3:9 - For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.
We need to work together! There is a corporate anointing when we come together. When we gather together, when we serve each other.
4) Love people (Kinship)
1 John 3:16 – This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers
If you love Jesus, you will also love other people. You can’t say you love God and hate people at the same time.
Be blessed! Get planted!
Monday, November 28, 2005
Personal Best
Ran in the Clowne Half Marathon yesterday and recorded a PB of 1:41:06. My mate Rob just pipped me by 3 seconds this time....well done mate! I can't believe it's a year since we last ran this race. (See archive)
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
The Power of Worship Part III
Paul Benger finished our series off in style on Sunday night with a great message on the ‘serving’ aspect of worship.
Romans 12:1 – And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?
When would God be asking too much of you? What would it take for us to say no to God?
Service to God does not belittle us.
Jesus shared about the good and faithful servant in Matthew 25. The highest aspiration on life is to be a servant in whatever sphere of life we are in.
Martin Luther King - ‘Everyone can be great because anyone can serve’
Even in prison Joseph did well! He had a ‘nobility’ about his life, nobility inside of him – a servant heart, an excellent attitude.
Jesus said the greatest among you is the one who serves. The way to greatness...serve! Jesus was our great example:
He came to serve - (Mark 10:45)
For those who aspire to lead - (Mark 10:44)
Jesus showed the way (John 13:14)
Paul’s main text for the evening was from Genesis 24:12-28, when Abraham’s servant went looking for a wife for Isaac and found Rebekah. He shared with us 6 characteristics of great service and great worship.
Great service is WILLING (vs 18)
Great service has a willing attitude, willing heart – and is uncomplaining!
Great service EXCELS (vs 19)
Goes beyond the required norm. Excels expectation – not a one-off.
Great service is SWIFT (vs 18)
Gets on with it – not grumpy. Does not procrastinate!
Great service is HONOURING (vs 18)
‘Certainly sir – drink my Lord!’ Serving looks for ways to honour - ‘How can I serve him, her or them’. Helps those to fulfil their potential.
Great service means WORK (vs 19-20)
She ran! Kept on working, backwards and forwards to the well.
Great service is UNSELFISH
Laying down your life. Putting others before self. Serve where you’re needed not just where you want to!
Romans 12:1 – And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?
When would God be asking too much of you? What would it take for us to say no to God?
Service to God does not belittle us.
Jesus shared about the good and faithful servant in Matthew 25. The highest aspiration on life is to be a servant in whatever sphere of life we are in.
Martin Luther King - ‘Everyone can be great because anyone can serve’
Even in prison Joseph did well! He had a ‘nobility’ about his life, nobility inside of him – a servant heart, an excellent attitude.
Jesus said the greatest among you is the one who serves. The way to greatness...serve! Jesus was our great example:
He came to serve - (Mark 10:45)
For those who aspire to lead - (Mark 10:44)
Jesus showed the way (John 13:14)
Paul’s main text for the evening was from Genesis 24:12-28, when Abraham’s servant went looking for a wife for Isaac and found Rebekah. He shared with us 6 characteristics of great service and great worship.
Great service is WILLING (vs 18)
Great service has a willing attitude, willing heart – and is uncomplaining!
Great service EXCELS (vs 19)
Goes beyond the required norm. Excels expectation – not a one-off.
Great service is SWIFT (vs 18)
Gets on with it – not grumpy. Does not procrastinate!
Great service is HONOURING (vs 18)
‘Certainly sir – drink my Lord!’ Serving looks for ways to honour - ‘How can I serve him, her or them’. Helps those to fulfil their potential.
Great service means WORK (vs 19-20)
She ran! Kept on working, backwards and forwards to the well.
Great service is UNSELFISH
Laying down your life. Putting others before self. Serve where you’re needed not just where you want to!
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Monday, November 14, 2005
The Church at Worship
Simon Wood continued our ‘The Power of Worship’ series last night in church. He spoke on the ‘Church at Worship’…
‘Worship’ is hard to put into words. You can’t just use the dictionary definition.
We need to get what God is really like into our hearts!
We’ve been created to worship. God has put the desire of worship into our hearts...but what are we worshipping?
We’ve been created for greater things...to be worshipping in God’s house. God is a great Father and wants the very best for us!
In our worship God wants the very best for us. It’s a two-way relationship. Give to God what He deserves. And know this...that God loves you and,
Zephaniah 3:17 – The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing!
We are a worshipping church, but worship is not just a church thing…it’s a lifestyle.
But there is great strength and power when the church comes together in worship. There is a great anointing!
Psalm 133:1-3 – How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore.
God sees the aroma of our worship...our love, our heart for Him.
Great message!
‘Worship’ is hard to put into words. You can’t just use the dictionary definition.
We need to get what God is really like into our hearts!
We’ve been created to worship. God has put the desire of worship into our hearts...but what are we worshipping?
We’ve been created for greater things...to be worshipping in God’s house. God is a great Father and wants the very best for us!
In our worship God wants the very best for us. It’s a two-way relationship. Give to God what He deserves. And know this...that God loves you and,
Zephaniah 3:17 – The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing!
We are a worshipping church, but worship is not just a church thing…it’s a lifestyle.
But there is great strength and power when the church comes together in worship. There is a great anointing!
Psalm 133:1-3 – How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore.
God sees the aroma of our worship...our love, our heart for Him.
Great message!
Friday, November 11, 2005
...now for Pakistan
England’s attempt at world domination continues this weekend with the commencement of the First Test in Multan, Pakistan.
With Vaughan out injured I’m hoping England can still rise to the challenge. A good start tomorrow morning is vital so it will be interesting to see the starting line-up. Should Ian Bell get another chance?
With Vaughan out injured I’m hoping England can still rise to the challenge. A good start tomorrow morning is vital so it will be interesting to see the starting line-up. Should Ian Bell get another chance?
Friday, November 04, 2005
The 'Attitude' of Worship
I will be speaking this Sunday as part of our ‘The Power of Worship’ series. My focus will be on the ‘Attitude of Worship’.
For a prosperous life - live life with these three great attitudes...
Let me introduce the GTS of worship:
An attitude of Generosity – a generous heart
An attitude of Thanksgiving – a thankful heart
An attitude of Serving – a servant heart
A well-used phrase is that ‘worship is a lifestyle and not just what happens in our services’.
When you consider these attitudes remember those verses from Philippians 2:1-11 – Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus...
A Generous Heart
Choose to have a generous spirit! Sow generously...bless God, bless others. 2 Corinthians 9:11 – You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
A Thankful Heart
Thanksgiving reminds you to choose a life of giving praise and thanksgiving to God. The Apostle Paul gives this instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A Servant Heart
Worship is the very first commandment: To love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind and all of your strength. Worship should be the priority in our lives – to love Jesus, to put Him first in your life and to serve Him, whatever He calls you to do. Live to delight the heart of God!
For a prosperous life - live life with these three great attitudes...
Let me introduce the GTS of worship:
An attitude of Generosity – a generous heart
An attitude of Thanksgiving – a thankful heart
An attitude of Serving – a servant heart
A well-used phrase is that ‘worship is a lifestyle and not just what happens in our services’.
When you consider these attitudes remember those verses from Philippians 2:1-11 – Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus...
A Generous Heart
Choose to have a generous spirit! Sow generously...bless God, bless others. 2 Corinthians 9:11 – You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
A Thankful Heart
Thanksgiving reminds you to choose a life of giving praise and thanksgiving to God. The Apostle Paul gives this instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
A Servant Heart
Worship is the very first commandment: To love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind and all of your strength. Worship should be the priority in our lives – to love Jesus, to put Him first in your life and to serve Him, whatever He calls you to do. Live to delight the heart of God!
Monday, October 31, 2005
Gruesome?
Hope this is not too gruesome for you! They're called 'sutures' or clips to be removed in a few days time.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Thursday, October 20, 2005
I, Robot
I will be continuing this Sunday with a message based around a movie as part of our ‘movie-themed’ month at church. This week we are looking at the film I-Robot.
Based loosely on the book by sci-fi writer, Isaac Asimov, the story centres on the attempts by humans to restrict and control their creations. It optimistically looks at the ability of technology to improve the lives of humanity, and in the case of robots, to be even more moral than human beings.
I believe the film highlights two important issues for us as human beings, freedom or freewill and purpose.
Freedom - What does it means to be free?
Purpose – What is our purpose?
The two are intrinsically connected. God has created us with ‘freewill’, freedom to choose. But I believe only real freedom comes when we serve the purposes of our ‘creator’ – God.
(Psalm 139:14-15) - (14) I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (15) My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
(Genesis 1:27) - So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them
The idea that we are made in God’s image is a powerful one. We resemble our creator! God’s imprint is upon us. The worth of each and every person, who has lived, is living now or will ever live has been established from the beginning!
(Psalm 139:16) - (16) All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
In other words the script of our life was written by God - before we were even born!
And the purpose of life is to serve the purposes of God.
Based loosely on the book by sci-fi writer, Isaac Asimov, the story centres on the attempts by humans to restrict and control their creations. It optimistically looks at the ability of technology to improve the lives of humanity, and in the case of robots, to be even more moral than human beings.
I believe the film highlights two important issues for us as human beings, freedom or freewill and purpose.
Freedom - What does it means to be free?
Purpose – What is our purpose?
The two are intrinsically connected. God has created us with ‘freewill’, freedom to choose. But I believe only real freedom comes when we serve the purposes of our ‘creator’ – God.
(Psalm 139:14-15) - (14) I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (15) My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
(Genesis 1:27) - So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them
The idea that we are made in God’s image is a powerful one. We resemble our creator! God’s imprint is upon us. The worth of each and every person, who has lived, is living now or will ever live has been established from the beginning!
(Psalm 139:16) - (16) All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
In other words the script of our life was written by God - before we were even born!
And the purpose of life is to serve the purposes of God.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Fear Not
The verse from Psalm 112 sprung to mind this morning when I opened my mail.
Psalm 112:7 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
As a Payroll Manager of a large UK business I’ve been awaiting the day when the Inland Revenue (now HM Revenue & Customs) would come calling with regards to doing a PAYE review/audit. Today that day has come. They have requested a preliminary meeting in the coming days and then they will come and do a full audit of our systems and procedures.
Having now read Psalm 112 in full, verse 7 now needs to be read in context considering my situation!
Psalm 112:5-7 - (5) All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely and conduct their business fairly. (6) Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. (7) They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
I’m sure all will be well!
Psalm 112:7 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
As a Payroll Manager of a large UK business I’ve been awaiting the day when the Inland Revenue (now HM Revenue & Customs) would come calling with regards to doing a PAYE review/audit. Today that day has come. They have requested a preliminary meeting in the coming days and then they will come and do a full audit of our systems and procedures.
Having now read Psalm 112 in full, verse 7 now needs to be read in context considering my situation!
Psalm 112:5-7 - (5) All goes well for those who are generous, who lend freely and conduct their business fairly. (6) Such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. (7) They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them.
I’m sure all will be well!
Incredible Relationships
Last night was the second of our movie-themed evenings at church and was also another glimpse at the movie ‘The Incredibles’. Paul Benger brought an incredible message on ‘relationships’.
We can have incredible relationships! Don’t give up on them. Whether in family, business, church etc.
God believes in them. He is a relational God – the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
We can know…
Incredible Friendships
Friendship is vital in our relationships – it is the foundation.
Proverbs 18:24 – A man who has friends must himself be friendly
Proverbs 27:17 – Just as iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another.
Friends give friendly advice, Proverbs 27:6 - Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses
The test of friendship – Proverbs 18:24 - There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother
Guard against whispering (gossip) – Proverbs 17:9 - Disregarding another person's faults preserves love; telling about them separates close friends
Incredible Partnerships
You can’t do what God has called you to do on your own.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 – two are better than one - the power of synergy
Psalm 133 – the power of unity.
Incredible Family
Proverbs 18:22 - The man who finds a wife finds a treasure and receives favor from the LORD
We believe in incredible families!
2 people that love God (Psalm 84:5)
2 people that love the House of God (Psalm 84:4)
2 people that love each other (1 Corinthians 13)
God has called us to incredible relationships
We can have incredible relationships! Don’t give up on them. Whether in family, business, church etc.
God believes in them. He is a relational God – the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
We can know…
Incredible Friendships
Friendship is vital in our relationships – it is the foundation.
Proverbs 18:24 – A man who has friends must himself be friendly
Proverbs 27:17 – Just as iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another.
Friends give friendly advice, Proverbs 27:6 - Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses
The test of friendship – Proverbs 18:24 - There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother
Guard against whispering (gossip) – Proverbs 17:9 - Disregarding another person's faults preserves love; telling about them separates close friends
Incredible Partnerships
You can’t do what God has called you to do on your own.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 – two are better than one - the power of synergy
Psalm 133 – the power of unity.
Incredible Family
Proverbs 18:22 - The man who finds a wife finds a treasure and receives favor from the LORD
We believe in incredible families!
2 people that love God (Psalm 84:5)
2 people that love the House of God (Psalm 84:4)
2 people that love each other (1 Corinthians 13)
God has called us to incredible relationships
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Myringoplasty
Recently I burst an eardrum whilst paint-balling! It was a one-in-a-million shot but the damage was done. A third of my eardrum had been removed.
As a result of this accident I have been quite deaf in my right ear. As a musician and worship leader this has left me a little lost at times!
Following several appointments with an ENT specialist and a wait of about 2 months to see if the eardrum would heal on its own I have been informed that this will now probably not happen.
So in a couple of weeks time I will be having a little operation known as myringoplasty. The op will last around 1½ to 2 hrs under general anaesthetic.
The consultant surgeon tells me the success rate is about 9 in 10.
1 Peter 5:7 - Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you.
As a result of this accident I have been quite deaf in my right ear. As a musician and worship leader this has left me a little lost at times!
Following several appointments with an ENT specialist and a wait of about 2 months to see if the eardrum would heal on its own I have been informed that this will now probably not happen.
So in a couple of weeks time I will be having a little operation known as myringoplasty. The op will last around 1½ to 2 hrs under general anaesthetic.
The consultant surgeon tells me the success rate is about 9 in 10.
1 Peter 5:7 - Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Incredible Heroes
I will be speaking this Sunday as part of our ‘movie-themed’ month on ‘The Incredibles’ – Incredible Heroes...
What camp are you in? Tina Turner - ‘We don’t need another HERO’ or is it Bonnie Tyler - ‘I need a HERO’.
Our world needs HEROES.
Why do we long for Heroes?
The Incredibles reflects this anxiety and fosters our hope that hidden in each of us is the super power to stand out, to be special, to be admired and respected, to be loved. We can't believe that someone could love us before we produce anything of note.
The gospel of Jesus Christ offers a far different message.
"Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought..." Romans 8:26.
It is not the super who get God's love in Christ. It is God's love through Christ that makes us super!
It is not on the basis of our strength that we live such lives. It is on the basis of the love, grace, mercy and hope we receive in Christ every day.
We do need a hero in these times. His name is Jesus Christ – and through Him we also can be HEROES.
God’s Power in us – Right for every situation...
Ephesians 1:18-20 - I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realise what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people. I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honour at God's right hand in the heavenly realms.
It doesn’t matter who you are, or what you’ve done in your life up to this point, all that matters is that at some point in your life you stop and recognise the biggest hero of them all - Jesus.
It was His sacrifice that gives you freedom from your old life and gives you the power and strength it takes for you to be a hero for someone else!
What camp are you in? Tina Turner - ‘We don’t need another HERO’ or is it Bonnie Tyler - ‘I need a HERO’.
Our world needs HEROES.
Why do we long for Heroes?
The Incredibles reflects this anxiety and fosters our hope that hidden in each of us is the super power to stand out, to be special, to be admired and respected, to be loved. We can't believe that someone could love us before we produce anything of note.
The gospel of Jesus Christ offers a far different message.
"Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought..." Romans 8:26.
It is not the super who get God's love in Christ. It is God's love through Christ that makes us super!
It is not on the basis of our strength that we live such lives. It is on the basis of the love, grace, mercy and hope we receive in Christ every day.
We do need a hero in these times. His name is Jesus Christ – and through Him we also can be HEROES.
God’s Power in us – Right for every situation...
Ephesians 1:18-20 - I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realise what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people. I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honour at God's right hand in the heavenly realms.
It doesn’t matter who you are, or what you’ve done in your life up to this point, all that matters is that at some point in your life you stop and recognise the biggest hero of them all - Jesus.
It was His sacrifice that gives you freedom from your old life and gives you the power and strength it takes for you to be a hero for someone else!
Learning to Play
My eldest son Daniel (11) is learning to play the guitar. Just as I did when I was about his age - he’s just picked up the guitar and learnt some chord structures and started playing along to CD’s (although I think it was tapes/vinyl records when I did it!)
He’s doing really well and can now play through an entire song – one from the new Hillsong album 'God He Reigns' (Let Creation Sing – Reuben Morgan)
Keep it up Dan!
He’s doing really well and can now play through an entire song – one from the new Hillsong album 'God He Reigns' (Let Creation Sing – Reuben Morgan)
Keep it up Dan!
Monday, October 03, 2005
Moving On
Jeannie Benger spoke an inspiring message in church last night. Here are my notes...
Deuteronomy 1:6 When we were at Mount Sinai, the LORD our God said to us, ‘You have stayed at this mountain long enough’.
We’ve been living here for long enough. It is now time to move into new ground, move into a new era.
God has great plans for us as individuals and as a church. We need to position ourselves for growth. Leave certain things behind. Not settle for the mediocre – look for the breakthrough. Move with confidence into the things God has for us.
Step away from the mountain!
John 4:35 Do you think the work of harvesting will not begin until the summer ends four months from now? Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest. - The harvest is ready – today. A time to reap.
Mark 4:20 But the good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest--thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted.
Seeds have been sown in this town – 25% of the seed has fallen on good ground, now ready for us to harvest. Don’t focus on the seed that has fallen away, focus on the seed that has fallen on good ground.
Deuteronomy 6:10-11 (10) The LORD your God will soon bring you into the land he swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is a land filled with large, prosperous cities that you did not build. (11) The houses will be richly stocked with goods you did not produce. You will draw water from cisterns you did not dig, and you will eat from vineyards and olive trees you did not plant. When you have eaten your fill in this land.
God will give to us even what we haven’t planted. His favour is upon us!
Ways for us to move away from this mountain and into a new era:
By having confidence
Believe in ourselves, believe in God. We are children of the Living God. Realise who you are.
Step out. When we step out He kicks in!
By living lives that reflect God
We can’t love God and live our lives how we want to. Live a life that reflects God.
By living thankful lives
Living out of thankfulness. So much to be thankful for – all that God has done for us. Give back to God – generously.
By having good attitudes
Check your attitudes. Good or bad? How do we treat people, what are our thoughts towards them? Envious, jealousy – guard against these things. Sow friendliness – reap friendship.
Deuteronomy 1:6 When we were at Mount Sinai, the LORD our God said to us, ‘You have stayed at this mountain long enough’.
We’ve been living here for long enough. It is now time to move into new ground, move into a new era.
God has great plans for us as individuals and as a church. We need to position ourselves for growth. Leave certain things behind. Not settle for the mediocre – look for the breakthrough. Move with confidence into the things God has for us.
Step away from the mountain!
John 4:35 Do you think the work of harvesting will not begin until the summer ends four months from now? Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all around us and are ready now for the harvest. - The harvest is ready – today. A time to reap.
Mark 4:20 But the good soil represents those who hear and accept God's message and produce a huge harvest--thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted.
Seeds have been sown in this town – 25% of the seed has fallen on good ground, now ready for us to harvest. Don’t focus on the seed that has fallen away, focus on the seed that has fallen on good ground.
Deuteronomy 6:10-11 (10) The LORD your God will soon bring you into the land he swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is a land filled with large, prosperous cities that you did not build. (11) The houses will be richly stocked with goods you did not produce. You will draw water from cisterns you did not dig, and you will eat from vineyards and olive trees you did not plant. When you have eaten your fill in this land.
God will give to us even what we haven’t planted. His favour is upon us!
Ways for us to move away from this mountain and into a new era:
By having confidence
Believe in ourselves, believe in God. We are children of the Living God. Realise who you are.
Step out. When we step out He kicks in!
By living lives that reflect God
We can’t love God and live our lives how we want to. Live a life that reflects God.
By living thankful lives
Living out of thankfulness. So much to be thankful for – all that God has done for us. Give back to God – generously.
By having good attitudes
Check your attitudes. Good or bad? How do we treat people, what are our thoughts towards them? Envious, jealousy – guard against these things. Sow friendliness – reap friendship.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Faith
I read this today…
A popular definition of faith might be something like ‘an irrational belief with no supporting evidence.’ That’s like asking a skydiver to jump without a parachute and still ‘have faith’ that he won’t die.
The Bible has a better definition: 'Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see' (Hebrews 11:1, NLT).
Notice the words ‘confidence’ and ‘assurance’. God wants you to trust him with your life, but he also wants you to know that he is trustworthy.
A popular definition of faith might be something like ‘an irrational belief with no supporting evidence.’ That’s like asking a skydiver to jump without a parachute and still ‘have faith’ that he won’t die.
The Bible has a better definition: 'Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see' (Hebrews 11:1, NLT).
Notice the words ‘confidence’ and ‘assurance’. God wants you to trust him with your life, but he also wants you to know that he is trustworthy.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Lessons from Geese
Mark Wilkins spoke a great message in church on Sunday night, taken from Ephesians 4:1-16.
He shared four vital truths regarding the church and her purposes in Christ by comparing us with geese (yes, geese!).
Geese know they are geese!
(Vs1-8) Know who we are in Christ. Jesus dealt with everything at the cross – full and total forgiveness. God has chosen us (for His ‘dream team’) not because of what we’ve done but because of what He can do with us!
Geese know where they are going
A church united in Christ – sharing the vision. (Not playing for ourselves). We’re called to local church. Our vision unites us.
Geese share the workload
The lead goose changes places with the other geese – they share the load. We share the burden of the vision of the church. We are all carriers - not just the leaders.
(Vs 7) - However, he has given each one of us a special gift according to the generosity of Christ.
We all contribute. What can I give? Our contribution is not insignificant but vital to the success of the church. E.g. the recent Ashes series – Gary Pratt ‘ran-out’ the Australian cricket captain. A great and vital contribution, although seemingly small and insignificant!
Honk! Honk!
Geese encourage each other. We need an 'encouragement culture' in the church.
Great stuff Mark!
He shared four vital truths regarding the church and her purposes in Christ by comparing us with geese (yes, geese!).
Geese know they are geese!
(Vs1-8) Know who we are in Christ. Jesus dealt with everything at the cross – full and total forgiveness. God has chosen us (for His ‘dream team’) not because of what we’ve done but because of what He can do with us!
Geese know where they are going
A church united in Christ – sharing the vision. (Not playing for ourselves). We’re called to local church. Our vision unites us.
Geese share the workload
The lead goose changes places with the other geese – they share the load. We share the burden of the vision of the church. We are all carriers - not just the leaders.
(Vs 7) - However, he has given each one of us a special gift according to the generosity of Christ.
We all contribute. What can I give? Our contribution is not insignificant but vital to the success of the church. E.g. the recent Ashes series – Gary Pratt ‘ran-out’ the Australian cricket captain. A great and vital contribution, although seemingly small and insignificant!
Honk! Honk!
Geese encourage each other. We need an 'encouragement culture' in the church.
Great stuff Mark!
Saturday, September 24, 2005
20 Miles
I reached another milestone in my running this morning by completing, for the first time, 20 miles.
I did it with my running mate (Rob) who is running in the Cardiff Marathon in a couple of weeks time.
We ran it in 2 hrs 53 mins, which isn’t too bad – around the 3 hrs 45 min pace for a full marathon (26.2 miles).
Friday, September 23, 2005
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Katrina and now Rita
As I read this it’s hard to believe that within the space of just a few weeks the Gulf coast is about to receive a second category 5 hurricane.
They are now saying Rita could be the third strongest ever recorded 'Atlantic' hurricane.
I trust everyone has evacuated in time or better still that Rita will quickly begin to dissipate before any serious damage is done.
What’s in a name?
You wonder how these names, Katrina and Rita, will be remembered in time...
They are now saying Rita could be the third strongest ever recorded 'Atlantic' hurricane.
I trust everyone has evacuated in time or better still that Rita will quickly begin to dissipate before any serious damage is done.
What’s in a name?
You wonder how these names, Katrina and Rita, will be remembered in time...
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Uplift 2
Taken from part 2 of Paul Benger’s ‘up-lifting’ message in church on Sunday night (to be discussed in our Connect group tonight).
Being a Christian is not all about me…it’s all about lifting the lives of others!
Vision statement on CLC website: Our vision is to be a large local church that is: faith filled, upbeat, committed to Word and Spirit, relational, growing, connected to people, influential, loyal, positive, fun to be in, fully devoted to Christ, contemporary, influential & effective in our community
We have to be what God has called us to be! Uplift is the currency of God’s Kingdom. 3 things about uplift:
You can only uplift that which you value
With regards to the people from the town where Jesus came from - they could not honour him because they did not value him.
Uplift must be from the heart and not just the lips
What comes from us is important because it reveals our heart. Always remember – God looks at the heart.
Mark 4:24-25 – "Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."
Value God’s word: 1 Thess 2:13 – And we will never stop thanking God that when we preached his message to you, you didn't think of the words we spoke as being just our own. You accepted what we said as the very word of God-which, of course, it was. And this word continues to work in you who believe.
Uplift is not achieved by the putting down of self
Jesus said ‘love your neighbour as yourself’. Being able to love yourself is so important in the lifting up of others. Letting go of the things in our past – forgiving ourselves and moving on.
With regards to Honour...
True honour is not taken it is given
We cannot demand honour
We cannot be passive
Uplift must be expressed…visibly/vocally honour people.
The focus of honour is not the putting down of self
Get away from the ‘put-downs’ (of others, of yourself) - focus on the ‘up-lifts’!
Being a Christian is not all about me…it’s all about lifting the lives of others!
Vision statement on CLC website: Our vision is to be a large local church that is: faith filled, upbeat, committed to Word and Spirit, relational, growing, connected to people, influential, loyal, positive, fun to be in, fully devoted to Christ, contemporary, influential & effective in our community
We have to be what God has called us to be! Uplift is the currency of God’s Kingdom. 3 things about uplift:
You can only uplift that which you value
With regards to the people from the town where Jesus came from - they could not honour him because they did not value him.
Uplift must be from the heart and not just the lips
What comes from us is important because it reveals our heart. Always remember – God looks at the heart.
Mark 4:24-25 – "Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."
Value God’s word: 1 Thess 2:13 – And we will never stop thanking God that when we preached his message to you, you didn't think of the words we spoke as being just our own. You accepted what we said as the very word of God-which, of course, it was. And this word continues to work in you who believe.
Uplift is not achieved by the putting down of self
Jesus said ‘love your neighbour as yourself’. Being able to love yourself is so important in the lifting up of others. Letting go of the things in our past – forgiving ourselves and moving on.
With regards to Honour...
True honour is not taken it is given
We cannot demand honour
We cannot be passive
Uplift must be expressed…visibly/vocally honour people.
The focus of honour is not the putting down of self
Get away from the ‘put-downs’ (of others, of yourself) - focus on the ‘up-lifts’!
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Welcome Back
Helen and Steve, our sister and brother in law from Perth, Western Australia are in England for several months.
We greeted them at Gatwick yesterday morning and then spent the day with them.
They had unfortunately missed the recent Ashes series as they were travelling in Canada and USA at the time. We quickly got them up to speed with the events of the summer as we watched a 2 hour 'Ashes Fever' programme broadcast by Channel 4 going over the agonies of each Test match.
I reminded Steve that Australia are still good at 'Swimming'. He's got a good sense of humour (I think!)
Friday, September 16, 2005
Who's a Bonny Lad?
Daniel starts his new school!
It's a bit scary when your eldest starts secondary school...he'll soon be a teenager. Aghhhh!
It's a bit scary when your eldest starts secondary school...he'll soon be a teenager. Aghhhh!
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Church Marketing
A recent BBC article on church marketing.
What a lot of fuss about nothing. Whether we like it or not the church is in the media spotlight a lot of the time...and much of it is bad press.
We need a marketing strategy to communicate how much church means to us and how relevant church is in the 21st Century.
Our current local ad campaign...
‘Think church is outdated and boring...so did WE’
What a lot of fuss about nothing. Whether we like it or not the church is in the media spotlight a lot of the time...and much of it is bad press.
We need a marketing strategy to communicate how much church means to us and how relevant church is in the 21st Century.
Our current local ad campaign...
‘Think church is outdated and boring...so did WE’
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Monday, September 12, 2005
Day of Reckoning
Who would have thought it would come down to the last day of the last test? It may even come down to the last session. Hopefully not, I don’t think my nerves will hold out!
Come on England...one final push for glory! Bring em home.
Uplift
Paul Benger brought a great message in church last night...
Mark 6:1-6
Uplift - What you do for others God will do for you.
We often look for uplift in our lives. An important key to this is uplifting the lives of others. Honouring is an essential ingredient in our lives and in the life of the church.
6 enemies of uplift:
Ignorance
Never been taught properly with regards to ‘uplift’
Humility = knowing your place
Honour = giving others theirs
History
Honouring people now (not when they’re dead!)
Our history can hinder us, stops us honouring people. To lift someone up can sometimes be viewed as pride. When someone does well we should celebrate with them.
Culture
No honour please we’re British!
‘it’s my culture’ – a poor excuse. Honouring is a ‘Kingdom culture’.
Equality
We are all equal…but are we all the same? In God we are equal but we have different purposes. Teachers and pupils etc.
Mark 6:1-6
Uplift - What you do for others God will do for you.
We often look for uplift in our lives. An important key to this is uplifting the lives of others. Honouring is an essential ingredient in our lives and in the life of the church.
6 enemies of uplift:
Ignorance
Never been taught properly with regards to ‘uplift’
Humility = knowing your place
Honour = giving others theirs
History
Honouring people now (not when they’re dead!)
Our history can hinder us, stops us honouring people. To lift someone up can sometimes be viewed as pride. When someone does well we should celebrate with them.
Culture
No honour please we’re British!
‘it’s my culture’ – a poor excuse. Honouring is a ‘Kingdom culture’.
Equality
We are all equal…but are we all the same? In God we are equal but we have different purposes. Teachers and pupils etc.
Pride
(Proverbs 19:23) – ‘A mans pride brings him low but a man of lowly spirit gains honour’. Pride is mean, selfish and stingy.
Familiarity
‘It’s only Mary’s son…we know him’ – (Mark 6:3)
Never let familiarity get in the way of honouring people.
Friday, September 09, 2005
So Long Richie
Best wishes go to Richie Benaud the voice of cricket. He leaves the English game this weekend.
Who’ll ever forget that dulcet tone, "Morning everyone", which has been a comforting greeting for any fan of the game.
Thursday, September 08, 2005
Barmy Army
England’s 12th man will be in fine song today!
Barmy Army Latest CD...
Barmy Army Latest T-Shirt ...
The Usual Suspects - "Eleven criminals, one line-up, no coincidence"
I’ve been trying to find a pictue of the full line-up...without success. Still a nice shot of Ponting, Dizzy, Gilchrist and Warney!
Barmy Army Latest CD...
Barmy Army Latest T-Shirt ...
The Usual Suspects - "Eleven criminals, one line-up, no coincidence"
I’ve been trying to find a pictue of the full line-up...without success. Still a nice shot of Ponting, Dizzy, Gilchrist and Warney!
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Comparing Scars
I will be speaking in church tonight...
Remember the scene from Jaws? The one on the boat when they’re comparing their scars.
Most of us know nothing about physical abuse as a result of our faith and our witness for Jesus. That was not true in the life of many Christians through the centuries.
If the Apostle Paul were here tonight and if he were take his shirt off we would gasp in horror.
He was stoned in Listra
He was beaten in Phillipi
While it is true that none of us has had to suffer the abuse that the Apostle Paul suffered physically - I believe that we need to bear in our bodies the marks of Jesus.
Galatians 6
Let me suggest 5 Marks (from Galatians 6) that should be on our body (and in this Body, the church) – so that we can say ‘I bear in my body the marks of Jesus’. (Galatians 6:17)
The Mark of Love (vs 2)
The Mark of Compassion (vs 1)
The Mark of Humility (vs 3-4,14)
The Mark of Generosity (vs 6-10)
The Mark of Loyalty (vs 10)
Remember the scene from Jaws? The one on the boat when they’re comparing their scars.
Most of us know nothing about physical abuse as a result of our faith and our witness for Jesus. That was not true in the life of many Christians through the centuries.
If the Apostle Paul were here tonight and if he were take his shirt off we would gasp in horror.
He was stoned in Listra
He was beaten in Phillipi
While it is true that none of us has had to suffer the abuse that the Apostle Paul suffered physically - I believe that we need to bear in our bodies the marks of Jesus.
Galatians 6
Let me suggest 5 Marks (from Galatians 6) that should be on our body (and in this Body, the church) – so that we can say ‘I bear in my body the marks of Jesus’. (Galatians 6:17)
The Mark of Love (vs 2)
The Mark of Compassion (vs 1)
The Mark of Humility (vs 3-4,14)
The Mark of Generosity (vs 6-10)
The Mark of Loyalty (vs 10)
Monday, August 29, 2005
Grapevine
We were at Grapevine 2005 yesterday. It was great to see Delirious leading worship last night one year on from the terrible accident when the seating in the big top collapsed.
They led us in the song ‘We’re gonna dance in the river’ (This is the song we were singing at the time when it all happened) - Martin Smith declared ‘let us finish what we started last year!’ Great stuff.
They led us in the song ‘We’re gonna dance in the river’ (This is the song we were singing at the time when it all happened) - Martin Smith declared ‘let us finish what we started last year!’ Great stuff.
Friday, August 26, 2005
I'm Back...
...after being on holiday and then being struck down with a bad dose of tonsillitis. All I could eat was well cooked spaghetti mixed with grated cheese, butter and a touch of basil! Not bad really.
The crickets back also. The Ashes 4th Test and England are making steady progress despite the rain interruptions yesterday.
Hopefully they’ll see off Australia today by posting a good first innings. Looks like Freddies winding up for a big one!
The crickets back also. The Ashes 4th Test and England are making steady progress despite the rain interruptions yesterday.
Hopefully they’ll see off Australia today by posting a good first innings. Looks like Freddies winding up for a big one!
Monday, August 15, 2005
Ashes 3rd Test
On holiday this week so not much blogging.
But I had to mentionn the cricket. Wow, boo-hoo and all that. What an emotional roller-coaster this Series is becoming.
This will no doubt go down as an all-time classic...one they'll remember for many years to come.
But I had to mentionn the cricket. Wow, boo-hoo and all that. What an emotional roller-coaster this Series is becoming.
This will no doubt go down as an all-time classic...one they'll remember for many years to come.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Vaughan Again...at Last!
Well done Michael. A great knock of 166.
What will today bring, hopefully a final tally of around 500 should see off this test match. Also...
600 not out!
Finally, I've got to mention the effervescent Shane Warne who reached the incredible milestone of 600 test wickets.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Lost
The popular American TV series ‘Lost’ starts here tonight on Channel 4. I will watch with eager anticipation.
"Cinematic, lavish, shock-and-awe television"
"Big-budget, massive cast, great special effects, nail biting cliff-hangers"
Synopsis: ‘After a somewhat mysterious sequence of events, an oceanic flight from Sydney to LA crashes on what appears to be a deserted island. The chance of being found and rescued are fairly small, so the survivors have to cope with a set of challenges. They have to learn to survive on the island, a mysterious place with enough dangers on it's own. Also, they have to learn to live with each other if any success is to be expected. And finally, they have to live with themselves and their pasts. Interwoven with the events on the islands are flashbacks to the pasts of some 10 main characters. Step by step, we learn a little more about their diverse and unexpected pasts as the group's quest to survive takes shape.
A horrific plane crash leaves 48 passengers alive, and stranded on a remote island in the South Pacific. The survivors include doctor Jack, now freed prisoner Kate, one hit wonder rock star Charlie, Iraqi military vet Sayid, and a mysterious man named Locke. For a while their goal is simple survival, but they soon realise that it was far more than mere chance that brought them together, and each of them has a purpose that will help them unlock the island's secrets.’
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Ashes 2nd Test Report
Great stuff from Derek 'Robbo' Robson (The Tees Mouth) courtesy of the BBC.‘Warne treads on his stumps, and you're thinking he's a great bowler but you wouldn't want him as a dance partner.’
WANTED: Aussie Bowler
Nice hot bath too ease the bruising.
Another one out? Brett Lee is doubtful for the 3rd Test at Old Trafford. He's suffering from a knee infection which apparently has nothing to do with Freddy's exocets at the weekend.
Hope you get better soon Brett!
Monday, August 08, 2005
Living Life Well
Jeannie Benger spoke an encouraging message in church last night on the keys to ‘living life well’. We will talk about these things in our Connect Group tomorrow night.
God is a Father - encouraging his kids, cheering us on. When we fall off - 'get back on...have another go!'
God wants us to live a full life – to squeeze every last drop out of life! Run the race well.
Keys:
Having a generous spirit
Sow generously. Practice good ‘customer service’ – not just a shopping thing but a life thing!
Proverbs 11:25 - The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Live lives full of generosity.
Having a great attitude
In every area of our lives. Home life, work life etc.
Enjoy work! (When you go into work and you ask someone are they ok, how many respond - ‘I’ll be all right at 5 o’clock’?)
Get planted in the House of God
Ephesians 5:25 - Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.
Christ loves the church. We also need to love church. Be positive about church...not looking to pull it down, critical etc. Support the leaders and the vision of the church.
God is for us…He wants us to win! To live life to the full.
Q’s
How important are our attitudes in life? Where can we see the positive/negative effects of the right/wrong attitudes?
Sowing and reaping in life...it’s not just about money. What other examples of the kinds of good sowing and also bad sowing can we think of?
God is a Father - encouraging his kids, cheering us on. When we fall off - 'get back on...have another go!'
God wants us to live a full life – to squeeze every last drop out of life! Run the race well.
Keys:
Having a generous spirit
Sow generously. Practice good ‘customer service’ – not just a shopping thing but a life thing!
Proverbs 11:25 - The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Live lives full of generosity.
Having a great attitude
In every area of our lives. Home life, work life etc.
Enjoy work! (When you go into work and you ask someone are they ok, how many respond - ‘I’ll be all right at 5 o’clock’?)
Get planted in the House of God
Ephesians 5:25 - Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.
Christ loves the church. We also need to love church. Be positive about church...not looking to pull it down, critical etc. Support the leaders and the vision of the church.
God is for us…He wants us to win! To live life to the full.
Q’s
How important are our attitudes in life? Where can we see the positive/negative effects of the right/wrong attitudes?
Sowing and reaping in life...it’s not just about money. What other examples of the kinds of good sowing and also bad sowing can we think of?
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Greatest Ever Test Match?
I’ve just witnessed an incredible finish to a great Ashes Test match. A real nail-biter!
What seemed like a formality this morning with Australia chasing 107 to win with only 2 wickets in hand, turned into a frenetic finish
The tail in Warne, Lee and Kasprowicz fought brilliantly and were just denied at the end only 3 runs short of the win. You've got to feel for the lads.
1-1 in the Series...game on!
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
McGrath and Warne
How to play these two? 1097 test wickets between them.
I think something slipped into their meals tonight might do the trick!
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Vaughan Again
Just one of the headlines I’d love to see over the coming weekend.
He’s gone from being rated number one in the world to number 28. His test average has dropped from 50.98 before he was captain to just 36.55.
BBC link
He’s gone from being rated number one in the world to number 28. His test average has dropped from 50.98 before he was captain to just 36.55.
BBC link
Monday, August 01, 2005
Dead or Alive? Part 3
Paul Benger finished off our Dead or Alive series last night in church. It’s been a great three weeks.
Ephesians 2:11-22
Paul deals with 3 issues concerning the Ephesians church (Vs 11-12)
They still thought they were ‘outsiders’
Thinking they were not good enough. But now all one in Christ.
The Jewish pride
Galatians 3:28 – in Christ there is neither Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female – you are all one in Christ!
The concept of ‘circumcision’
Not a human activity but a Holy Spirit activity at work in our lives – making us more like Christ.
This is what Christ has done, a fundamental change has taken place to our condition:
(Vs 13) We now belong to God – brought near, no longer far away.
(V3 14) Jesus has broken down the wall of hostility – made us one, not only with God but with other people. Unity – one in Christ.
(Vs 15) Jewish law has ended – a new way of being right with God, through Christ and all he has done.
(Vs 19) The new temple has been constructed – a place where God dwells, in the hearts of people. The church is people. Flourishing when planted in the House of God.
Finally...
(Vs 12) The church is a place of HOPE. Hope is the true spirit of the Christian. To have faith we need hope. Hebrews 11:1 - What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see
Psalm 42:11 - Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again - my Saviour and my God!
Proverbs 17:22 - A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength.
Proverbs 18:14 - The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear it if the spirit is crushed?
Ephesians 2:11-22
Paul deals with 3 issues concerning the Ephesians church (Vs 11-12)
They still thought they were ‘outsiders’
Thinking they were not good enough. But now all one in Christ.
The Jewish pride
Galatians 3:28 – in Christ there is neither Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female – you are all one in Christ!
The concept of ‘circumcision’
Not a human activity but a Holy Spirit activity at work in our lives – making us more like Christ.
This is what Christ has done, a fundamental change has taken place to our condition:
(Vs 13) We now belong to God – brought near, no longer far away.
(V3 14) Jesus has broken down the wall of hostility – made us one, not only with God but with other people. Unity – one in Christ.
(Vs 15) Jewish law has ended – a new way of being right with God, through Christ and all he has done.
(Vs 19) The new temple has been constructed – a place where God dwells, in the hearts of people. The church is people. Flourishing when planted in the House of God.
Finally...
(Vs 12) The church is a place of HOPE. Hope is the true spirit of the Christian. To have faith we need hope. Hebrews 11:1 - What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot yet see
Psalm 42:11 - Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again - my Saviour and my God!
Proverbs 17:22 - A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength.
Proverbs 18:14 - The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear it if the spirit is crushed?
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Went to see this yesterday with the kids. Great fun!
Much more in keeping with the book. I think they just about got the Oompa Loompas right this time. Not easy to interpret Roald Dahl’s vision of the little singing dancing men.
Johnny Depp is a very creepy Willy Wonka...wonder who they based him on?!
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Deferred Success
A retired teacher will call on the Professional Association of Teacher’s annual gathering in Buxton, Derbyshire next week, to delete the word 'fail' from the educational vocabulary to be replaced with the concept of 'deferred success'.
She argues that repeated failure, such as in exams, can damage pupils' interest in learning.
Political correctness gone mad? (The Art of Failure)
So what of England’s ‘deferred success’ against the Aussies?
She argues that repeated failure, such as in exams, can damage pupils' interest in learning.
Political correctness gone mad? (The Art of Failure)
So what of England’s ‘deferred success’ against the Aussies?
Monday, July 25, 2005
Dead or Alive? Part 2
Paul Benger carried on last night in church with our Dead or Alive series taken from Ephesians chapter 2. A great message!
Ephesians 2:4-10
2 great phrases from these verses - ‘But God’ and ‘God’s Masterpiece’
BUT GOD
Paul writes this is where we were - dead in our sins! BUT GOD, rich in mercy and loved us so much, that even while we were dead, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. There’s a big BUT in all of us!
Three things about this truth:
God initiates
We were dead, but God started the process of bringing about change. By sending his Son.
God invests
God was willing to invest all that He had to save the world. Not a little of his love, his grace – but God being rich in mercy and love…invested liberally!
God imagines
God is a visionary. He sees our world differently to how we see it. We need to see what he sees, imagine what he imagines.
GOD’S MASTERPIECE
(Vs 10) For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
God is an artist, a potter at work...we are his masterpiece (workmanship). He’s not finished with us yet!
Three things about this truth:
Don’t get religion get Jesus
Religion changes nothing. Only Jesus in our lives can do this.
We were created to do good things
Not works. Bearing good fruit when we are connected to Jesus – the Vine.
God has planned good things for your life
Seated us in heavenly places (vs 6). He is the ‘lifter of our heads’. We may have failed in the past but God doesn’t see us as ‘failures’.
Ephesians 2:4-10
2 great phrases from these verses - ‘But God’ and ‘God’s Masterpiece’
BUT GOD
Paul writes this is where we were - dead in our sins! BUT GOD, rich in mercy and loved us so much, that even while we were dead, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. There’s a big BUT in all of us!
Three things about this truth:
God initiates
We were dead, but God started the process of bringing about change. By sending his Son.
God invests
God was willing to invest all that He had to save the world. Not a little of his love, his grace – but God being rich in mercy and love…invested liberally!
God imagines
God is a visionary. He sees our world differently to how we see it. We need to see what he sees, imagine what he imagines.
GOD’S MASTERPIECE
(Vs 10) For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
God is an artist, a potter at work...we are his masterpiece (workmanship). He’s not finished with us yet!
Three things about this truth:
Don’t get religion get Jesus
Religion changes nothing. Only Jesus in our lives can do this.
We were created to do good things
Not works. Bearing good fruit when we are connected to Jesus – the Vine.
God has planned good things for your life
Seated us in heavenly places (vs 6). He is the ‘lifter of our heads’. We may have failed in the past but God doesn’t see us as ‘failures’.
First Test - A Bridge too Far
There have been improvements since the last Ashes but there is still a gulf between the two sides.
Lessons Learnt
1. Must do better in the field
2. Batsmen must get in and stay in
"We didn't bat well enough and didn't catch well enough" Michael Vaughn
Positives
1. Pietersen
2. We can bowl out Australia...twice
3. Pietersen
On to Edgbaston and hopefully a more competitive performance!
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Bouncers or Beamers Brett?
Brett Lee plans to test England's batsmen with short-pitched bowling and has predicted "fireworks" in the first Ashes Test at Lord's.
"It's Test match cricket and the reason why is because it's a test, a test of character, a test of commitment and a test of courage." Brett Lee
Let’s hope it’s the bouncers and not the beamers that our boys will have to contend with...eh Brett?
Monday, July 18, 2005
Dead or Alive?
Last night in church Paul Benger began a series from Ephesians Chapter 2. He opened with a great message and a number of people responded to God’s word. Great stuff! Thanks Paul.
The fact that through Jesus Christ we have been transferred from a dead world into a living world.
There are 7 things from the first 3 verses of Ephesians 2 that we have to die to...
We have to die to a dead world and connect to a living world (vs 1)
We have to die to a life of missing the mark and connect to a life of hitting the mark (vs 1)
We have to die to former things and connect to present and future things (vs 2)
We have to die to Satan and connect to God (vs 2)
We have to die to a disobedient life and connect to a life of obedience to God (vs 2)
We have to die to a sinful life and connect to a spirit-filled life (vs 3)
We have to die to the concept of an angry God and connect to a loving Father (vs 3)
The fact that through Jesus Christ we have been transferred from a dead world into a living world.
There are 7 things from the first 3 verses of Ephesians 2 that we have to die to...
We have to die to a dead world and connect to a living world (vs 1)
We have to die to a life of missing the mark and connect to a life of hitting the mark (vs 1)
We have to die to former things and connect to present and future things (vs 2)
We have to die to Satan and connect to God (vs 2)
We have to die to a disobedient life and connect to a life of obedience to God (vs 2)
We have to die to a sinful life and connect to a spirit-filled life (vs 3)
We have to die to the concept of an angry God and connect to a loving Father (vs 3)
Winning Team?
Michael Vaughn (Captain)
Marcus Trescothick Andrew Strauss Ian Bell Kevin Pietersen Andrew Flintoff Geraint Jones Ashley Giles Matthew Hoggard Simon Jones Steve Harmison Chris TremlettJust 3 days to go!
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