These 2 words, although only containing a difference of 3 letters in spelling have such different meanings entirely.
One denotes having an exclusive concern about oneself vs the other that exhibits little or no concern for oneself. News reports are forever providing explanation of this trend of selfishness as the current generation's personalities but I think the society as a whole is affected by this.
When presented with options or choices to make, our first reaction is 'What's in it for me?' or 'Which option will benefit me the best?' To take it further, we fail to plan ahead and live in the 'here and now' with instant gratification driving lives and choices.
We blame our busy lives on being time-poor- but is it really that simple?
This is no different in the Christian life. We make excuses to not pray, read Scripture, go to church even and give financially to those that ask without expecting anything in return. But somenow, we always manage to find time watching podcasts, playing games on our smartphones, going out for coffee, having dinner parties, playing sport, playing computer games, watching TV, pretty much anything that is considered 'more fun' than spending time with our Lord.
I blogged previously about what KP Yohannan said with regards with financial giving amongst the fellowship of the church and how many churches including my own, are very materialistic in the way we think and don't give generously because we prefer to keep the majority of the things we think we own back to the Lord for His use. Classic example would be providing free food to a church full of wealthy people and families, rather than giving the free food to people just down the road that really need it.
"We do not own ourselves; we are owned by God," said John Piper in his Don't Waste Your Life messages. The ultimate act of selflessness and the greatest gift to ever be freely given to those who believe, is the gift of forgiveness, unconditional love and acceptance into eternal life with God through sending His Son to be punished, die and condemned with all the wickedness of the world laid upon Him.
We have no right to claim we deserve to be loved and accepted by God based on what we do and who we are.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
GFA Audio Book
During a recent 4 hour return car trip from camp to a wedding and back again, we listened to the audio version of the free Gospel for Asia book 'Revolution in World Missions'.
Written by Dr KP Yohannan, it chronicles his journey from a remote Indian village where he grew up, to be convicted of native missionary work and thus establish what is now known as the 'Gospel for Asia' missionary organisation. (or GFA).
The world generally knows about World Vision sponsorship. The Christian network knows about Compassion and TEAR sponsorships and community projects. There is nothing wrong with supporting these, but GFA offers something uniquely different.
Rather than sending people from developed countries into developing countries to do social and community projects or even evangelism amongst the local people, GFA's focus is on training people from within those countries to preach and teach Scripture,. They are then sent back to their homeland to undertake this ministry, as they have the unique advantage of already understanding the culture, the language and the people they serve.
One chapter in the free book described how when KP was visiting many churches in the US to generate support to establish this organisation and to support missionary work in general, one quote he wrote stood out for me:
(paraphrased)
"I'd be drumming up financial support for missionary work amongst the churches and their leadership team. They would happily offer donations of various amounts, but when I was invited afterwards to a dinner function with them, the amount of money they spent on the dinner alone was so much more than what they gave financially towards the missionary cause. This made me sick and wonder "are we as a society so materialistically-driven that we act as if we give generously, but in reality only give a small portion of what we think is generous and keep the rest for ourselves?"
Written by Dr KP Yohannan, it chronicles his journey from a remote Indian village where he grew up, to be convicted of native missionary work and thus establish what is now known as the 'Gospel for Asia' missionary organisation. (or GFA).
The world generally knows about World Vision sponsorship. The Christian network knows about Compassion and TEAR sponsorships and community projects. There is nothing wrong with supporting these, but GFA offers something uniquely different.
Rather than sending people from developed countries into developing countries to do social and community projects or even evangelism amongst the local people, GFA's focus is on training people from within those countries to preach and teach Scripture,. They are then sent back to their homeland to undertake this ministry, as they have the unique advantage of already understanding the culture, the language and the people they serve.
One chapter in the free book described how when KP was visiting many churches in the US to generate support to establish this organisation and to support missionary work in general, one quote he wrote stood out for me:
(paraphrased)
"I'd be drumming up financial support for missionary work amongst the churches and their leadership team. They would happily offer donations of various amounts, but when I was invited afterwards to a dinner function with them, the amount of money they spent on the dinner alone was so much more than what they gave financially towards the missionary cause. This made me sick and wonder "are we as a society so materialistically-driven that we act as if we give generously, but in reality only give a small portion of what we think is generous and keep the rest for ourselves?"
Thursday, May 26, 2011
All Day Brekkies
I cannot resist all day brekkies if the opportunity allows me.
In saying that though, there aren't alot of places that offer this on their menus where the brekky is actually so good you have to make a return trip. Better still, become a regular.
Franchises aside, (sorry Coffee Club), there have only been a small number of places that I've considered to be great places to visit and tuck right into a hearty savoury or sweet breakfast for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and the occasional dinner (if the joint is open after 4:30pm).
Pandemonium Cafe
This I think is one of the great little secrets in the inner-city. Brightly decorated in retro colours, furniture and music gig posters, this cafe in a small lime green house serves fantastic brekkies ranging from the hearty truckers brekky, simple eggs on toast, sausages and eggs, bacon and eggs, omelettes, pancakes and the classic Pando's Eggs Benedict on toasted turkish/ciabatta. Also has a great drinks selection ranging from teas, coffees, milkshakes and fresh fruit juices and frappes. Caters for gluten and vegan diets too if given notice. Prices are pretty reasonable.
The Gun Shop Cafe
I haven't been here for quite awhile, mainly due to the cafe not allowing breakfast bookings on weekends, but this would be the place where I was first introduced to gourmet breakfasts. Whilst the brekky menu changes seasonally, there will always be something on the menu that will whet your appetite. Prices are on the higher side in comparison but that's what you get for a cafe that also doubles as a fine dining restaurant when the sun sets.
Red Radish Cafe
Whenever I head down the coast for some cheap retail therapy at Harbourtown, I like this place for its basic, no-nonsense breakfast fare. It is I think, one of the very few cafes in this complex that does offer more than just the usual sandwiches, open grills, muffins, coffee and cake specials, when you really feel like something more substantial to keep you going until the shops close at 5pm. Again, fairly reasonably priced.
New Farm Deli
Probably one of the original deli's that expanded into the cafe business, by allowing customers to consume the food first and then if so inclined, purchase some for home when they leave. Whilst not exactly a breakfast item, it is famous for its large bell-shaped risotto balls that will satisfy any hungry customer. There's nothing wrong with eating rice for breakfast though. My grandmother makes the best congee in the world.
New places that I would like to visit:
The Rare Pear
The Music Kafe
Campos Cafe
In saying that though, there aren't alot of places that offer this on their menus where the brekky is actually so good you have to make a return trip. Better still, become a regular.
Franchises aside, (sorry Coffee Club), there have only been a small number of places that I've considered to be great places to visit and tuck right into a hearty savoury or sweet breakfast for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and the occasional dinner (if the joint is open after 4:30pm).
Pandemonium Cafe
This I think is one of the great little secrets in the inner-city. Brightly decorated in retro colours, furniture and music gig posters, this cafe in a small lime green house serves fantastic brekkies ranging from the hearty truckers brekky, simple eggs on toast, sausages and eggs, bacon and eggs, omelettes, pancakes and the classic Pando's Eggs Benedict on toasted turkish/ciabatta. Also has a great drinks selection ranging from teas, coffees, milkshakes and fresh fruit juices and frappes. Caters for gluten and vegan diets too if given notice. Prices are pretty reasonable.
The Gun Shop Cafe
I haven't been here for quite awhile, mainly due to the cafe not allowing breakfast bookings on weekends, but this would be the place where I was first introduced to gourmet breakfasts. Whilst the brekky menu changes seasonally, there will always be something on the menu that will whet your appetite. Prices are on the higher side in comparison but that's what you get for a cafe that also doubles as a fine dining restaurant when the sun sets.
Red Radish Cafe
Whenever I head down the coast for some cheap retail therapy at Harbourtown, I like this place for its basic, no-nonsense breakfast fare. It is I think, one of the very few cafes in this complex that does offer more than just the usual sandwiches, open grills, muffins, coffee and cake specials, when you really feel like something more substantial to keep you going until the shops close at 5pm. Again, fairly reasonably priced.
New Farm Deli
Probably one of the original deli's that expanded into the cafe business, by allowing customers to consume the food first and then if so inclined, purchase some for home when they leave. Whilst not exactly a breakfast item, it is famous for its large bell-shaped risotto balls that will satisfy any hungry customer. There's nothing wrong with eating rice for breakfast though. My grandmother makes the best congee in the world.
New places that I would like to visit:
The Rare Pear
The Music Kafe
Campos Cafe
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
Rosemount Australian Fashion Week- Spring/Summer 2011/2012
Scored an invitation to the NewGen Show at RAFW in Sydney this week, courtesy of some very talented cousins of mine.
It's all abit new and strange to me really- this means I will actually have to make an effort to look fashionable and actually look like I think about what clothes I wear every single day.
No idea on trends, what to/what not to wear, have a very small supply of jewellery and accessories that any girl would shake their heads at in disbelief.
I'm a tracky-dacks, t-shirts and jeans girl................
It's all abit new and strange to me really- this means I will actually have to make an effort to look fashionable and actually look like I think about what clothes I wear every single day.
No idea on trends, what to/what not to wear, have a very small supply of jewellery and accessories that any girl would shake their heads at in disbelief.
I'm a tracky-dacks, t-shirts and jeans girl................
Monday, April 18, 2011
Repeat Blog Content
Just blatantly repeating blog content as I couldn't think of making this any clearer:
A fishing we will go
A fishing we will go
Heigh Ho, the derry ho
A fishing we will go
A fishing we will go
A fishing we will go
Heigh Ho, the derry ho
A fishing we will go
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Alternative Choice
Poor Tasmania.
Always the bridesmaid to a planned Japan trip. Didn't think this would happen in 2 years.
Hope we can eventually make it to Japan someday.
We traded the following:
- sushi
- katsu
- okonomiyaki
- sashimi
- kaiseki
- Totoro
- Mt Fuji
for these instead:
- fresh oysters shucked on same day
- homemade scones with fresh strawberry jam and whipped cream
- fresh smoked salmon
- hearing about 10 convicts that stole the last ship on the Sarah island penal settlement and sailed it all the way to Chile
- 12 km bushwalk in World Heritage National Park
- trout fishing
- Cascades brewery tour
- Mt Wellington
- Nerf Gun War in Newtown
Always the bridesmaid to a planned Japan trip. Didn't think this would happen in 2 years.
Hope we can eventually make it to Japan someday.
We traded the following:
- sushi
- katsu
- okonomiyaki
- sashimi
- kaiseki
- Totoro
- Mt Fuji
for these instead:
- fresh oysters shucked on same day
- homemade scones with fresh strawberry jam and whipped cream
- fresh smoked salmon
- hearing about 10 convicts that stole the last ship on the Sarah island penal settlement and sailed it all the way to Chile
- 12 km bushwalk in World Heritage National Park
- trout fishing
- Cascades brewery tour
- Mt Wellington
- Nerf Gun War in Newtown
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Had enough of sensationalism
Article about the Japanese resilience in the aftermath of last week's events.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/why-quakes-leave-the-japanese-unshakeable/story-fn84naht-1226021692350
The 3rd last paragraph really hit a note for me. I really have come to dislike the way our country reports any local or world news because of this.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/why-quakes-leave-the-japanese-unshakeable/story-fn84naht-1226021692350
The 3rd last paragraph really hit a note for me. I really have come to dislike the way our country reports any local or world news because of this.
Friday, March 04, 2011
Observations
Some observations of recent times:
Some people have close-knit families, others do not. Those that do often spend most public holidays together each year by tradition, but sometimes wish that they could freely do something else with other people without offending their own families. If they break tradition, even in the smallest of ways, means the whole family and extended family will ignore them for the rest of the year if not longer.
For some that do not have close-knit families, often wish they did. They would like a sense of tradition in their lives where they can share and hang with their families rather than going to work or being alone every Christmas. Some will have family but can freely choose whether to see them or not, as they prefer to live as carefree and independent as possible. But at the end of the day, bitterness may still set in, even though that was the choice they made in the first place.
Some couples do not plan to have children, but then somehow manage to keep having children one after the other. Others plan to have children and feel truly blessed when their prayers are answered. Others plan to have children but it is disappointment after disappointment after disappointment. Then those people that have found it easy think "what can be so hard about this? I didn't find it difficult so why should they?' Those that are disappointed find it unhelpful when comments such as 'you've been married for over 10 years now, surely it must be time for you to start having kids. What's taking you so long? You better start soon otherwise it will be too late'. (OUCH!!) It's times like this that it's better to not say anything at all.
Some people unknowingly become 'rich' due to certain circumstances arising, others still put in their lotto tickets every week to win that elusive jackpot so as to retire comfortably. Working in a finance industry it amazes me to witness that most people that religiously so to speak, put their syndicates in, often say 'when I win lotto, that will be the day I will quit my job as I will be pretty well set for the rest of my life.' Question is................. when you eventually have the money to buy and do whatever you want, will that truly please you and satisfy your needs for the rest of your life and the next?
What would happen if God decided that you were to not see your family ever again, not to have alot of money and not to have children ever?
However, what would you think if God decided that you were to not see your family ever again, not to have alot of money and not to have children ever...................because that is He had planned for you all along, and He promises that your life will be even more blessed because of it?
Some people have close-knit families, others do not. Those that do often spend most public holidays together each year by tradition, but sometimes wish that they could freely do something else with other people without offending their own families. If they break tradition, even in the smallest of ways, means the whole family and extended family will ignore them for the rest of the year if not longer.
For some that do not have close-knit families, often wish they did. They would like a sense of tradition in their lives where they can share and hang with their families rather than going to work or being alone every Christmas. Some will have family but can freely choose whether to see them or not, as they prefer to live as carefree and independent as possible. But at the end of the day, bitterness may still set in, even though that was the choice they made in the first place.
Some couples do not plan to have children, but then somehow manage to keep having children one after the other. Others plan to have children and feel truly blessed when their prayers are answered. Others plan to have children but it is disappointment after disappointment after disappointment. Then those people that have found it easy think "what can be so hard about this? I didn't find it difficult so why should they?' Those that are disappointed find it unhelpful when comments such as 'you've been married for over 10 years now, surely it must be time for you to start having kids. What's taking you so long? You better start soon otherwise it will be too late'. (OUCH!!) It's times like this that it's better to not say anything at all.
Some people unknowingly become 'rich' due to certain circumstances arising, others still put in their lotto tickets every week to win that elusive jackpot so as to retire comfortably. Working in a finance industry it amazes me to witness that most people that religiously so to speak, put their syndicates in, often say 'when I win lotto, that will be the day I will quit my job as I will be pretty well set for the rest of my life.' Question is................. when you eventually have the money to buy and do whatever you want, will that truly please you and satisfy your needs for the rest of your life and the next?
What would happen if God decided that you were to not see your family ever again, not to have alot of money and not to have children ever?
However, what would you think if God decided that you were to not see your family ever again, not to have alot of money and not to have children ever...................because that is He had planned for you all along, and He promises that your life will be even more blessed because of it?
Monday, February 28, 2011
They who are blameless should cast the first stone
Warning: disturbing paraphrases of comments made on the internet below.
I have been quite horrified by the many comments that have been made by the Australian public towards the airing of an interview with the mother of Martin Bryant, the man who had been accused of murdering 35 people and wounding many others in Port Arthur on April 28, 1996.
Many comments have been made on the web about how both her and her son should not be alive, he is to blame for giving birth to him and that her opinion and her story should never be told because no-one else really cares about what she thinks. Other opinions state that it was disgrace to air the interview in the first place as it was insensitive towards the victims of the massacre that are still suffering as a result.
Is this really what our society has become? Putting our contempt for human beings in writing for the whole world to read?
Words are easily said but the effect of such words run far deeper than anyone can possibly imagine. We are all guilty of saying horrible things to each other (both friends and strangers) but to even say or write such horrible and awful things about someone else on the World Wide Web is just wrong.
Others could sum up this in 3 words: 'Tall Poppy Syndrome' which is part of the society that I live in, although I don't agree with it.
However, I think this goes way beyond this and is actually moving towards 'Public Degradation for One's Amusement".
Whilst not all of us are murderers, are we really any better than them? Are the accusations made going to 'improve' your chances of getting a VIP pass into heaven? Do comments like this mean you are a better person than anyone else?
Would you really be game enough to stand before God and say "God, I thank you that I am not like other people- robbers, evildoers, adulterers, or definitely not like this murderer. I donate money to charities, I help people when I'm asked to help because overall I'm a pretty good person that deserves to go to heaven because my good things outweigh the bad."
I pray for these people that they will realise (just like me), that I am no better than anyone else (murderers, criminals etc) and that I need forgiveness like the person who says 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner'.
I have been quite horrified by the many comments that have been made by the Australian public towards the airing of an interview with the mother of Martin Bryant, the man who had been accused of murdering 35 people and wounding many others in Port Arthur on April 28, 1996.
Many comments have been made on the web about how both her and her son should not be alive, he is to blame for giving birth to him and that her opinion and her story should never be told because no-one else really cares about what she thinks. Other opinions state that it was disgrace to air the interview in the first place as it was insensitive towards the victims of the massacre that are still suffering as a result.
Is this really what our society has become? Putting our contempt for human beings in writing for the whole world to read?
Words are easily said but the effect of such words run far deeper than anyone can possibly imagine. We are all guilty of saying horrible things to each other (both friends and strangers) but to even say or write such horrible and awful things about someone else on the World Wide Web is just wrong.
Others could sum up this in 3 words: 'Tall Poppy Syndrome' which is part of the society that I live in, although I don't agree with it.
However, I think this goes way beyond this and is actually moving towards 'Public Degradation for One's Amusement".
Whilst not all of us are murderers, are we really any better than them? Are the accusations made going to 'improve' your chances of getting a VIP pass into heaven? Do comments like this mean you are a better person than anyone else?
Would you really be game enough to stand before God and say "God, I thank you that I am not like other people- robbers, evildoers, adulterers, or definitely not like this murderer. I donate money to charities, I help people when I'm asked to help because overall I'm a pretty good person that deserves to go to heaven because my good things outweigh the bad."
I pray for these people that they will realise (just like me), that I am no better than anyone else (murderers, criminals etc) and that I need forgiveness like the person who says 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner'.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How Great is Our God
I was privileged to welcome 2 new sisters in Christ last night after 6 months going through the series 'Stranger on the Road to Emmaus'.
The angels rejoice in the presence of the Lord, we rejoice with them as 2 more people have been shown the way to eternal life, have accepted that there is nothing we humans can do to be made right with God except the blood of Jesus Christ.
Courtesy of our mate Chris, sing with me:
The splendour of the the King
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God,
And all will sing how great
How great is our God.
Age to age He stands,
And time is in His hands
The Beginning and the End, beginning and the end
The Godhead, three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb, Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God,
And all will sing how great
How great is our God.
Name above all names
You are worthy of all praise
And my heart will sing
How great is our God.
The angels rejoice in the presence of the Lord, we rejoice with them as 2 more people have been shown the way to eternal life, have accepted that there is nothing we humans can do to be made right with God except the blood of Jesus Christ.
Courtesy of our mate Chris, sing with me:
The splendour of the the King
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God,
And all will sing how great
How great is our God.
Age to age He stands,
And time is in His hands
The Beginning and the End, beginning and the end
The Godhead, three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb, Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God,
And all will sing how great
How great is our God.
Name above all names
You are worthy of all praise
And my heart will sing
How great is our God.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Watto is my hero
Thanks to Watto (and Binga), the AUS cricket team has redeemed itself (after losing the Ashes on home soil dismally) by winning the ODI series against ENG, and fittingly at the Gabba :D
Now, let's see if the stadiums in India will be ready in time for the ICC World Cup starting in a few weeks time.
Anyone have Foxtel in their house and willing for me to camp out at their place for 2.5 months?
Now, let's see if the stadiums in India will be ready in time for the ICC World Cup starting in a few weeks time.
Anyone have Foxtel in their house and willing for me to camp out at their place for 2.5 months?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Anti-Self Proclamation
I was one of 2,000 people that welcomed Chris Tomlin at his 1st ever concert north of the border last night.
I don't do Easterfest, Sonfest or any of those things but as my husband and many other church friends love his songs and the way he goes about his passion for music (more on that later) we made sure we were free on this Australia Day 2011 to see Chris in person for ourselves.
Now, the extent of what I knew about Chris is pretty limited and may not be anything worthy of mention (Chris would agree with this statement, again more on that later)- an American Christian songwriter that is often seen with his frequent collaborator Ps Louie Giglio, who tours with him explaining the Christian message to those that are Christian and those that are not.
Now this was the 1st ever Christian artist concert I have ever attended. With the location at what I would call a pentacostal church I had expected there to be a mosh pit of some sort and many people filled with emotion with their hands raised. I wasn't disappointed as my expectations came true somewhat (well, minus the mosh pit).
What I was disappointed with though (and this is my personal view) was the distinct difference between the two Christian bands that were playing that night.
The first band to grace the stage was the Parachute Band from NZ. Again I don't know much about them. I got the feeling that they were the 'support act' for Chris and his band, and my viewpoint of a support act is that they should usually complement what is to come from the main artist. (I say 'usually' as I'm sure this is not always the case with many artists- take U2 for example who had Jay-Z (an R & B artist) as their support act last year.)
Anyway, after listening to both Parachute Band and then Chris, these are the things I picked up on:
Parachute Band seemed very hyped up and had the characteristics of a modern Christian band with an aim to tap into the younger generation through songs that had a modern feel to it . They used language and phrases that sounded nice and used some Christian-sounding words, but didn't have as great an impact or challenge for us to see our true selves as sinful, condemned people.
Both bands did utilise passages of Scripture throughout their sets which was pleasing to see. Without Scripture, what difference would that make to any other music artist/band?
Chris was extremely humble, which is not normally seen in any music artist. And I mean.............. truly humble.
I'm not saying that he was the 'thanks but I am just doing things that I love and feel really honoured that people will listen to my music because it comes from my heart etc etc etc' type of humbleness.
The humbleness that Chris possessed was simply ' Hi, my name is Chris. I'm so happy to be here with you all tonight, singing praises to our awesome God. All of us here on this stage are just here to assist you in encountering God if you do not know Him, and to know Him better if you do. You might be here because you saw a name shining out in neon lights. I do hope that the main reason you are here tonight is because the name you see in neon lights is no other name except the name of Jesus Christ, because there is no-one else who is worthy to be praised, honoured and glorified than Him'.
That was it- no fanfare, no statements of proclaiming one-self as being gifted or special than any other person in the room. He just saw himself as a musician that through God's grace and wisdom is able to write songs that are focused purely on everything that God is- His character, His love, His mercy, His grace, His mighty deeds, His sovereignty, His justice.
We didn't leave the concert with the thought of 'How great was Chris', but most importantly 'How great is our God'.
I don't do Easterfest, Sonfest or any of those things but as my husband and many other church friends love his songs and the way he goes about his passion for music (more on that later) we made sure we were free on this Australia Day 2011 to see Chris in person for ourselves.
Now, the extent of what I knew about Chris is pretty limited and may not be anything worthy of mention (Chris would agree with this statement, again more on that later)- an American Christian songwriter that is often seen with his frequent collaborator Ps Louie Giglio, who tours with him explaining the Christian message to those that are Christian and those that are not.
Now this was the 1st ever Christian artist concert I have ever attended. With the location at what I would call a pentacostal church I had expected there to be a mosh pit of some sort and many people filled with emotion with their hands raised. I wasn't disappointed as my expectations came true somewhat (well, minus the mosh pit).
What I was disappointed with though (and this is my personal view) was the distinct difference between the two Christian bands that were playing that night.
The first band to grace the stage was the Parachute Band from NZ. Again I don't know much about them. I got the feeling that they were the 'support act' for Chris and his band, and my viewpoint of a support act is that they should usually complement what is to come from the main artist. (I say 'usually' as I'm sure this is not always the case with many artists- take U2 for example who had Jay-Z (an R & B artist) as their support act last year.)
Anyway, after listening to both Parachute Band and then Chris, these are the things I picked up on:
Parachute Band seemed very hyped up and had the characteristics of a modern Christian band with an aim to tap into the younger generation through songs that had a modern feel to it . They used language and phrases that sounded nice and used some Christian-sounding words, but didn't have as great an impact or challenge for us to see our true selves as sinful, condemned people.
Both bands did utilise passages of Scripture throughout their sets which was pleasing to see. Without Scripture, what difference would that make to any other music artist/band?
Chris was extremely humble, which is not normally seen in any music artist. And I mean.............. truly humble.
I'm not saying that he was the 'thanks but I am just doing things that I love and feel really honoured that people will listen to my music because it comes from my heart etc etc etc' type of humbleness.
The humbleness that Chris possessed was simply ' Hi, my name is Chris. I'm so happy to be here with you all tonight, singing praises to our awesome God. All of us here on this stage are just here to assist you in encountering God if you do not know Him, and to know Him better if you do. You might be here because you saw a name shining out in neon lights. I do hope that the main reason you are here tonight is because the name you see in neon lights is no other name except the name of Jesus Christ, because there is no-one else who is worthy to be praised, honoured and glorified than Him'.
That was it- no fanfare, no statements of proclaiming one-self as being gifted or special than any other person in the room. He just saw himself as a musician that through God's grace and wisdom is able to write songs that are focused purely on everything that God is- His character, His love, His mercy, His grace, His mighty deeds, His sovereignty, His justice.
We didn't leave the concert with the thought of 'How great was Chris', but most importantly 'How great is our God'.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Lost the Plot
Firstly I had a nightmare of a dream where everyone I've ever known/knew had turned against me one way or the other, as a result of a decision which I thought wasn't that big a deal ended upbeing so important and significant for everyone else that they all deserted me.
I can't remember in detail what exactly happened but it must have extremely put them off from associating with me ever again. Therefore I was ex-communicated from all society, given the mark of condemnation for everyone to see.....................kinda like Jean Valjean having to show his yellow ticket of leave so everyone would forever associate him and treat him as an outcast.
Then I came to work and a spyware virus found its way onto my server session. This was because I now had to start from scratch all over again, researching and finding all the hens weekend activities that had been carefully planned for the past year, as our hard drive has completely died so we cannot access anything.
I can't remember in detail what exactly happened but it must have extremely put them off from associating with me ever again. Therefore I was ex-communicated from all society, given the mark of condemnation for everyone to see.....................kinda like Jean Valjean having to show his yellow ticket of leave so everyone would forever associate him and treat him as an outcast.
Then I came to work and a spyware virus found its way onto my server session. This was because I now had to start from scratch all over again, researching and finding all the hens weekend activities that had been carefully planned for the past year, as our hard drive has completely died so we cannot access anything.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Hello 2011!
First day back at work for the new year.
Nothing much worthy of note.
BLT January is next week which will be great as we look at Missions and Evangelism which every person who confesses Jesus as their Lord should do every day for the rest of their lives.
Nothing much worthy of note.
BLT January is next week which will be great as we look at Missions and Evangelism which every person who confesses Jesus as their Lord should do every day for the rest of their lives.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Watch out Melbourne!
Here we come!
5 out of 100,000 people at the 'G' on Sunday arriving from interstate cheering our Aussie boys.
Watch your TV on Boxing Day, you just might see us :)
5 out of 100,000 people at the 'G' on Sunday arriving from interstate cheering our Aussie boys.
Watch your TV on Boxing Day, you just might see us :)
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
Stuck in a moment and I can't get out of it
The first of the U2 360 degree tour starts tonight in my hometown here.
Unfortunately I am not going, so to anyone who is...........................don't get wet...........stay cool............and say hi to Bono for me.
Unfortunately I am not going, so to anyone who is...........................don't get wet...........stay cool............and say hi to Bono for me.
Monday, December 06, 2010
Be Kind and Rewind
Today is one of those days that I just feel extremely stupid and all the small and simple tasks that should only take a minute to do end up taking an hour or more to accomplish.
Can I rewind the clock, go back to sleep and just start this day all over again??????
Can I rewind the clock, go back to sleep and just start this day all over again??????
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Pick your faces
I have a very useless habit of recognising actors and actresses who were once unknown but are now household names or who I reckon will become household names in the future.
From the many times I have sat at home re-watching the Doctor Who series 1 to 4 box sets, I simply have to make a list of the following people whom I recognise when they were guest stars, and are well-known or going to become well-known in the future:
Carey Mulligan
She played Sally Sparrow in the episode 'Blink'.
Now an Oscar nominee, competing with Keira Knightley for famous British actress awards and in movies such as Wall Street- Money Never Sleeps and Never Let me Go.
Andrew Garfield
Everyone now knows Andrew as the new Spiderman in the up and coming movies revamp. He's also starred in the recent movie 'The Social Network' about Facebook. But did you know that he had a guest role on two (2) episodes (Daleks in Manhatten and Evolution of the Daleks) as Frank, a young American lad who had to leave his family during the Great Depression and ends up in Hooverville New York?
Harry Lloyd
Now Harry probably isn't well know yet but I reckon he is a promising young actor to come. Harry also guest-starred in two (2) episodes titled 'The Family of Blood' and 'Human Nature' . He played Jeremy Baines, a school student who ends up being possessed by The Family.
Colin Morgan
We all know him as Merlin in the TV series, but Colin had a bit part in the episode 'Midnight', that converted me into a Doctor Who fanatic! (of David, not Colin) He played Jethro, a fellow passenger on the tourist trail to the planet Midnight.
Thomas Sangster
He played Liam Neeson's son in Love Actually, a young brat in Nanny McPhee and the adolescent Paul McCartney in the recent movie 'Nowhere Boy'. Thomas was also in the episodes 'The Family of Blood' and 'Human Nature' as a fellow school student but doesn't become possessed.
Now to my next favourite DVD box set 'Inspector Rex':
Karl Markovics
Whilst not an Oscar winner or nominee himself I dont think, Karl played the title role in the foreign film 'The Counterfeiters' as Salomon Sorowitsch, who was a Jew that ended up helping the Nazis printing counterfeit Deustchmarks during WWII. This film won Best Foreign Film at the 2008 Oscars. Karl protrayed the detective Ernst Stockinger in 2 series of Inspector Rex.
Christoph Waltz
Everyone knows Christoph from his Oscar winning performance in Quentin Tarantino's Inglorious Basterds, but he also had a role as a villian in the episode 'The Doll Murderer' in season 3.
Gedeon Burkhard
Also in Inglorious Basterds as a soldier Willem Wicki, but he took over from Tobias Moretti as the chief inspector and new owner of Rex from seasons 4 to 6.
From the many times I have sat at home re-watching the Doctor Who series 1 to 4 box sets, I simply have to make a list of the following people whom I recognise when they were guest stars, and are well-known or going to become well-known in the future:
Carey Mulligan
She played Sally Sparrow in the episode 'Blink'.
Now an Oscar nominee, competing with Keira Knightley for famous British actress awards and in movies such as Wall Street- Money Never Sleeps and Never Let me Go.
Andrew Garfield
Everyone now knows Andrew as the new Spiderman in the up and coming movies revamp. He's also starred in the recent movie 'The Social Network' about Facebook. But did you know that he had a guest role on two (2) episodes (Daleks in Manhatten and Evolution of the Daleks) as Frank, a young American lad who had to leave his family during the Great Depression and ends up in Hooverville New York?
Harry Lloyd
Now Harry probably isn't well know yet but I reckon he is a promising young actor to come. Harry also guest-starred in two (2) episodes titled 'The Family of Blood' and 'Human Nature' . He played Jeremy Baines, a school student who ends up being possessed by The Family.
Colin Morgan
We all know him as Merlin in the TV series, but Colin had a bit part in the episode 'Midnight', that converted me into a Doctor Who fanatic! (of David, not Colin) He played Jethro, a fellow passenger on the tourist trail to the planet Midnight.
Thomas Sangster
He played Liam Neeson's son in Love Actually, a young brat in Nanny McPhee and the adolescent Paul McCartney in the recent movie 'Nowhere Boy'. Thomas was also in the episodes 'The Family of Blood' and 'Human Nature' as a fellow school student but doesn't become possessed.
Now to my next favourite DVD box set 'Inspector Rex':
Karl Markovics
Whilst not an Oscar winner or nominee himself I dont think, Karl played the title role in the foreign film 'The Counterfeiters' as Salomon Sorowitsch, who was a Jew that ended up helping the Nazis printing counterfeit Deustchmarks during WWII. This film won Best Foreign Film at the 2008 Oscars. Karl protrayed the detective Ernst Stockinger in 2 series of Inspector Rex.
Christoph Waltz
Everyone knows Christoph from his Oscar winning performance in Quentin Tarantino's Inglorious Basterds, but he also had a role as a villian in the episode 'The Doll Murderer' in season 3.
Gedeon Burkhard
Also in Inglorious Basterds as a soldier Willem Wicki, but he took over from Tobias Moretti as the chief inspector and new owner of Rex from seasons 4 to 6.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Disappointing 1st Test
After such a fantastic start on Days 1 and 2, we looking at a draw for the 1st Ashes Test.
With the exception of Mr Cricket's fantastic century and the Siddlenator's hat-trick, we have been below average on the rest of the game.
Some quotes of worthy mention from the various cricket online threads:
Poor old Mitch Johnson looks about as threatening to the English batsmen as my 98 year old grandmother.
(courtesy of staff member's email)
The Barmy Army are in full voice now. I have no idea what they're chanting, but it's something that involves finger pointing as well. (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
Ponting has had enough of the X man and has recalled Siddle who, in his most cartoon-like way, looks pumped. (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
You have to love Michael Hussey, bounding around the outfield like a puppy as Trott flicks into space (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
With the exception of Mr Cricket's fantastic century and the Siddlenator's hat-trick, we have been below average on the rest of the game.
Some quotes of worthy mention from the various cricket online threads:
Poor old Mitch Johnson looks about as threatening to the English batsmen as my 98 year old grandmother.
(courtesy of staff member's email)
The Barmy Army are in full voice now. I have no idea what they're chanting, but it's something that involves finger pointing as well. (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
Ponting has had enough of the X man and has recalled Siddle who, in his most cartoon-like way, looks pumped. (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
You have to love Michael Hussey, bounding around the outfield like a puppy as Trott flicks into space (courtesy of Cric Info live Scoreboard)
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
New blood
I'm looking at the players for this year's Ashes series for my fantasy league team :)
Approximately 50% of the names I am unfamiliar with.
no more chants of ooh, ahh, Glenn McGrath........I said ooh ahh Glenn McGrath or 'g'd bowlin.........Shaaane! or Warnie, give us a wave!!
I will miss seeing the names of Hayden, McGrath, Langer, Gilchrist, Warne, Lee, Symonds and daresay Flintoff on the scoreboards this summer :(
Methinks I should read up on some of the new breed of stock that will hopefully make an impact this year.
I wonder if Panasar will make an impact this year?
Approximately 50% of the names I am unfamiliar with.
no more chants of ooh, ahh, Glenn McGrath........I said ooh ahh Glenn McGrath or 'g'd bowlin.........Shaaane! or Warnie, give us a wave!!
I will miss seeing the names of Hayden, McGrath, Langer, Gilchrist, Warne, Lee, Symonds and daresay Flintoff on the scoreboards this summer :(
Methinks I should read up on some of the new breed of stock that will hopefully make an impact this year.
I wonder if Panasar will make an impact this year?
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