Cub's Place

Elphant bath - south of Kandy, Sri Lanka

2010-03-11T18:54:00.000+11:00

Glass Masters....

2009-09-01T16:00:00.006+10:00

One of the "must dos" that I have when I come to Seattle each year is to visit the Hot Shop at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma. Over the summer, master glass artists from across the US and the world are invited to work in the shop. We have seen an amazing variety of creations - bowls, bowls within bowls, huge glass shapes for installations in concert halls and gardens world-wide, and so much more. The master artist meets with the hot shop team of gaffers - all glassblowers in their own right - and shows sketches outlining the projected vessel to be made. Then every person on the floor has a part to play, and many are interchangeable roles. Gathering the glass from the furnace, loading the furnace with the glass beads, making the canes of color, keeping the emerging creation liquid in the furnace until the next step, shielding the arms of the blower as he works on the vessel, preparing to change the vessel from one pipe to another and so it goes on. All with one purpose, all intent on fulfilling the master artist's dream. It has a Biblical ring to it doesn't it? The Church - His Church - called to be a body of members with His dream at heart, all moving in individual and corporate giftings to see Christ fulfill His purposes, for the church to become a living, relevant source of light and life in the world. Check out www.museumofglass.org

The Faith of Children

2009-08-23T14:26:00.004+10:00

I work with children on a regular basis - sometimes behind the scenes writing or training workers, but at other times face-to-face in camps usually. We just finished a camp in the state of Washington with the New Hope International Church. Pictured is one of the young campers sharing some Bible verses via Biff, our blue puppet person. Kids - love to laugh, enjoy games and competition, have great imaginations and are wonderfully creative. And then there is their response to God - trusting, full of faith, ready to experience all He has to offer. Such are some of the kids we were with last week. As we sang "Supernatural God" we came to the line "All things are possible". Stopping the song there, I asked the kids to call out some impossibilities in their lives or the lives of their family members. We compiled a list on the whiteboard - jobs for dads who had been out of work for months, healing, miracles that were needed in many ways. To this list I added my own need - my left knee had somehow slipped out of alignment. I was limping, strapped up securely, and icing at every opportunity. A number of children volunteered to pray and started down the list. When they had finished, we thanked the Lord for hearing and went on with the songs. It wasn't until half way through the program that I suddenly realised I wasn't limping, I could bend my knee without pain and without collapsing! The simple prayer of a faith-filled child who knew the reality of a loving Savior was all it took. Thanks Lord! I love the privilege I have of being built up and encouraged by kids!

Did they really say that?

2009-07-16T09:40:00.002+10:00

Some memorable quotes from the camps thus far:

To a camper who lives in the mountains of Idaho. "Do you have bears anywhere near your property? Answer: "Nah....only cougar." NOW THAT'S COMFORTING!!!!

From Intern Bekah (who is first to bed and last to rise) "You two are like a couple of old rockers... you just keep going." My reply: "We're afraid if we stop we'll die". Her understanding - So you're running from death!" Hmmmm

Camper to Music Man Doug: "I know who Larry is". "Who?" replied Doug. "It's one of them crazy ladies"...and then pointed to me. Really uplifting.

And I'm sure there'll be more....

The Hound From Heaven

2009-07-05T16:49:00.004+10:00

We have just finished the Boise, Idaho Royal Family Kids' Camp for children in foster care. What an amazing week with 36 great kids and a committed team of workers. While the week went fairly smoothly and there really was a great atmosphere of peace and unity, it was not without its hiccups. One of these was when a camper - we'll call her Tahlia - ran from the lakeside area (having been upset through not having the beach toy available for her use). This little girl experienced panic attacks, and it was clear that she had a background of severe abuse. As she ran towards the road, Sue and the Grandma Irene pursued her. I radioed the Camp Director, Tom, to alert him as to what was happening, and our other workers continued to supervise the children playing in and by the water. By the time Tom arrived Tahlia had retreated to the bushes (having put Sue through some harrowing moments when she had called out "I will kill myself" as a logging truck came down the road.) And so there was a stand-off. Eventually she moved along towards the building on the property. And then it happened - out of nowhere appeared a basset hound. He slowly ambled to Grandma and myself and I knelt down to pet him. "Look how gentle he is. Oh what lovely silky ears. He is a friendly dog" all said loud enough so our girl could hear. The dog then looked up and made a beeline for her. She fell to her knees, put her arms around him and rested her head on his. At this time, her counsellor arrived, and the tension was diffused. When I looked back, the dog had gone. I learned later that he lived on the next property - but no-one saw him come, no-one saw him go. What amazing timing! Coincidence? I think not - just God looking after one of His precious kids.

FAITH OF OUR FATHERS....

2009-06-24T09:03:00.006+10:00

Father's Day in the USA is in June, not September as in my home of Australia. This year I was able to spend it honoring Sue's Dad, Dale Carpenter. It has caused me to reflect on the "fathers" in my life.
1. Arthur Boyd - MY dad. A man of integrity, faithfulness and a great role model to me as I grew up. When he battled cancer, he did it with dignity and the assurance that his God was well-able to heal, but if not, then that was OK. I admit I was amazed at the strength of his faith in facing what he did - he had always believed he would see in the year 2000 and live a full life into his 90's just the way his mother did. He went to be with the Lord in March, 1993 and I still miss his wisdom and his total belief in me.
2. Richard Holland - my friend Hilary's dad. He was my pastor for many years, my friend almost as long and my spiritual dad. It's been just a year since he left at age 89. The way he handled personal onslaughts (health and others) taught me much. When wronged, he would say "It's alright, God knows and He will work it out" when I wanted to shout from the rooftops the injustice of the matter. He pastored a church with the heart of a shepherd who truly did lay down his life for the sheep.
3. Dale Carpenter - my friend and co-worker Sue's dad. A man of great faith, affection, steadfastness and incredible patience. Now robbed of physical strength and ability through aggressive MS he maintains dignity and continues to reach out to outhers in compassion. He loves to escape the house and get to visit people at church on Sundays, and is an inspiration to many people, including me.
The world needs more such men, such fathers.

Perseverance

2009-05-01T17:25:00.003+10:00

This photo was taken at Fitzroy Crossing in Western Australia. The river had flooded in a big way! Hard to imagine water levels as high as 5 metres and more. Now the waters had receded, and the sun had baked the mud into a clay pan. However as we walked along I spied this plant - pushing its' way through the hardened ground. Tenacity and perseverance. Underneath that mud somewhere was moisture and that plant sent its roots deep to tap into that. I think of our lives - sometimes swamped with schedules, deadlines, other people's expectations - easy to feel overwhelmed at times. But Jesus said "I am come to give you life ABUNDANTLY" - that's not just life to exist - it's life to live to the max, to enjoy, to find fulfillment in His purposes. In times of dryness it takes some effort to find the waters that ARE there for us. Don't look at the surface, they mislead. Dig deep and find the water of life. It's there!

Halls Creek, W.A.

2009-03-15T21:55:00.004+11:00

Western Australia (Australia's largest state) is an amazing place and I could write pages on the changing landscapes, the vivid colours, the wildlife and awesome scenery. But for me the highlight of this trip was the people of Halls Creek. If you drive through this town you may get a different impression - it's easy to see the effects of alcohol and to judge and move on. But when you stop and listen - to the stories of the people and the laughter of the children you see a different picture. There are many people in this place who have a sense of purpose and future - our friends at the AAO church there are some of these - they have formed good friendships with local families and are working to see families strengthened and restored, to respect culture and lead in wisdom. For me, the hope is in the children - great kids, huge smiles, terrific sense of humour, a love for fun, enjoying the simple things. For them the future is not something thought about. They play..eat....play again, go to school (not always) and finally sleep. For some, food quality may be a problem...in some homes food money is what's left over after the visit to the local bottle shop. But then that's sometimes the case in families down south too, - alcohol addiction is no respecter of race. My heart goes out to the grandmothers - many helping to rear their grandkids...and to the parents who are endeavoring to break the patterns and raise strong families. As a Christian I see that for these kids Jesus is the answer - not a white Jesus or a religious Jesus - but a REAL Jesus who stands alongside to help us stand up after we fall even if we do it again and again and maybe again. A Jesus who helps us to see that we have potential and can make a change. We have learned so much listening to the stories of the women...of how parents walked out of the desert and met white folk for the first time just over 40 years ago. That's amazing! There is wisdom in these women which we respect and learn from. Hmmmm....we have much to think about after this trip which will not be our last.

Victoria's Terror

2009-02-10T20:07:00.003+11:00

In 1904 Dorothea McKellar wrote a poem called "My Country". While the first verse described the fields and orderliness of the English countryside,the home of many of those who had journeyed across the sea to find another life, the rest of the poem beautifully describes her new home, Australia. The second verse goes like this:

I love a sunburnt country,
A land of sweeping plains,
Of ragged mountain ranges,
Of droughts and flooding rains.
I love her far horizons,
I love her jewel-sea,
Her beauty and her terror -
The wide brown land for me!
This week Australians have watched nature in all it's terror as the state of Victoria burned. Over 29 fires roared up hills and into valleys, across rivers and roads. At the whim of the wind it devoured homes, property, livestock and most tragically of all human life. At one stage the fire travelled 25 km in just four minutes. In some areas, by the time people saw it coming, it was too late to leave.
As I write emergency services are at full force aided by the Australian Army, Red Cross, the Salvation Army and many others. The CFA (Country Fire Authority) which is almost totally volunteer driven has worked in shifts around the clock. Three days after the hottest day on record for Victoria (47.6 C or 117F) fires still threaten country towns and the radio station dedicated to emergencies continues to read out fire warnings. "If you can see smoke, you have time to leave. If you see flames it is too late." Some of the survival stories are amazing - a group of three who crawled into a wombat hole and covered themselves with wet blankets - the fire roared over them but they were safe. The family who hid in a bunker reluctantly built by a husband who thought his wife was overreacting at living in the bush. It saved their lives too. A little boy found burnt but alive in a ditch with totally destroyed homes around him. As I write this, the death toll is 181, but all the homes have not been able to be reached and the thought is that this toll will rise significantly. Some of the fires had been deliberately lit - what does society do with someone who does this? But it is at times like these that community becomes a word with great meaning - Australians have huge hearts, and almost every district, club, sports team, church and school along with corporations are opening their pockets to provide relief to the thousands of now homeless people. If you are reading this, please pray for the people who are fighting for life in the burns units of our city hospitals, who grieve the loss of loved ones, for others who desperately wait in emergency centres hoping that their missing relative/neighbout/friend will show up alive, for those who sit dazed and bewildered with reality not yet set in, for those who literally only have the clothes on their back. Pray - give - and pray again. For up to date fire news try
www.abc.net.au/news/events/bushfires

New Knox Camp!

2009-01-17T22:18:00.003+11:00

January saw the culmination of almost a year of planning, praying and working to see a new Southern Cross Kids' Camp come into being. A new camp launched in the Knox area, making seven camps now happening in Australia plus one in New Zealand. Colleen (pictured here with me and Bluesea) joined me in directing the camp and did a great job. We had 24 first-time buddies and staff members, who joined with experienced workers to give these kids an unforgettable camp experience. Bluesea didn't do too badly either in her very exacting job of watching for campers displaying good attitudes and kindess. Check out SCKC at www.sckc.org.au

GOODBYE 08 - WELCOME 09

2008-12-28T16:31:00.006+11:00

One year drawing to a close....the turning of a page to the opening of a new, blank space. 2009 is approaching fast, and it is usual to reflect on what has gone before and to anticipate what might come. I don't know about you, but the page for 2008 was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster - lows (loss of dear ones,added pressures and expectations of others.. highs - news from a far land, unexpected blessings (my red Forester!) travel to people and places I love (Thailand, Cambodia, USA)....good friends, Southern Cross Kids' Camps... along with the aching of joints that used to work smoothly. What will 2009 hold for all of us? World finances topple....nations continue to war....millions starve or subsist...children are still in enslavement and deprivation. I don't have the answers - I do know that all I can do is my bit. To help where I can. My Compassion boy "Ton" will be educated, fed and given some spiritual input this year, because God faithfully provides for me so that I can provide for him. There is an old song that says "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because He lives all fear is gone, Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living just because He lives." [Bill Gaither] It pretty much sums it up - as the psalmist says "My times are in His hands." Psalm
31:14. So I choose to look forward to the year ahead with its challenges, blessings, unexpected surprises. I look forward to deepening relationships, to new friends, new travel experiences and new growth. (Inward growth that is, not a widening girth!) :) To everyone who checks on this blog from time to time - may 2009 be a great year for you and for the ones you hold dear.

The Great Gift Exchange

2008-12-26T18:07:00.002+11:00

Christmas in Australia means many things - family time, food, decorations, church, shopping...shopping....shopping. The giving of gifts has overshadowed the greatest gift of all - that of God Himself coming as a child to live among us, experience the challenges, joy, tears and fears that is life, and finally to give Himself to take our punishment, to give us the gift of life. Life now and life eternal. Now that's a big gift! Yesterday I had the privilege of sharing on this aspect at Northside Christian Church in Bundoora. I had two 'bad news readers' come up to read the headlines of today - mostly doom and gloom, tragedy and loss. Then chose a child to be the angel reading the Good News of Luke 2. Finally I chose two boys to represent the two groups of people who knew of the event of Jesus' birth before anyone else - shepherds (the lowest of society of that time, often scoundrels, rough and ready) and wise men (I had this young man wear a mortarboard and hold a diploma - the Bible says they were "wise' not necessarily kings). The two extremes - rough, uneducated, to highly intelligent and capable. One of the messages of Christmas is that God's gift if for everyone and all who will accept it. He offers unconditional acceptance, unconditional love and through His Son, eternal life. WOW! What on earth can I give to match that? The simply answer to this - I can choose to live to serve Him, to live life through His eyes, to accept others, to curb selfishness, to make a difference in this world, not to earn salvation (acceptance of the gift does that) but to seek to see others discover the same gift. Christmas - Christ in our world, our life. Consider this quote from Charles Swindoll: “Emmanuel. God with us. He who resided in Heaven, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit, willingly descended into our world. He breathed our air, felt our pain, knew our sorrows, and died for our sins. He didn't come to frighten us, but to show us the way to warmth and safety.”

Fund-raising

2008-12-24T00:16:00.002+11:00

Southern Cross Kids' Camps benefited from CityLife Church's Christmas production "Finding Christmas" which ran last weekend. Krispy Kreme Donuts and SCKC Calendars helped bring in some much-needed funding for the new camp starting in the Knox area and I got a chance to spruik. "Getcha calorie-free calendars here!"

A RARE SIGHT IN MELBOURNE...

2008-12-14T09:28:00.002+11:00

When my friend from Singapore called to say she was in town, it was a great chance to catch up in the city, and I took this photo while waiting to cross the road. The glorious rain sent me (and hundreds of others I am sure) scrambling through closets and car boots (trunks) to find an umbrella, remove any spider webs and then enjoy the sound of rain splashing all around apart from my own personal cone of dryness. With rain scheduled on and off for the next week, there is a chance of good falls in our water catchment areas. At time of writing the dams are just 34% full for the greater Melbourne drinking supply. Water - the most basic of needs, now treasured as something precious. I am reminded of the story in John 4 where Jesus talks with a woman at a town well. She comes from a background of promiscuity, and of great need, and Jesus cuts to the chase when he tells her "I have water that will satisfy. Drink from me and you will never thirst again." Sometimes it takes something as natural as a rain shower to remind me that I do have a well that goes deep and is filled with living water - and I need to dip into that to fully satisfy the thirst within.

Friends.....

2008-11-11T17:49:00.003+11:00

Today I lunched with two "old friends" - old not so much in years, but friends I have known since they were University students, and who now I see only occasionally. However, whenever we meet it is as if we have never been apart. It was good to reminisce, to catch up , to anticipate each others' future plans. It made me reflect on other friendships - some I am unable to contact, others who fail to respond when I do. I do not take friendship lightly and my thoughts are spelled out below.

FRIENDS...
Faithful......consistent
Realistic....accept you as you are, no undue expectations
Interested...in your life and what makes 'you' you.
Enjoys.....your company, communications, opinions
Natural....no pretences, masks or 'game-playing'
Determined....to fight for a relationship that is valued
Share...hopes and fears, aspirations and dreams, heartaches and joys

SOUTHERN CROSS KIDS' CAMPS CHARITY GOLF DAY

2008-10-14T10:03:00.002+11:00

As you know, SCKC is a cause close to my heart. These camps seek to assist children within the social welfare system, many of whom are in foster care. A new camp is starting in the Melbourne area of Knox and I am heading up the new team there for this first camp. There are 7 camps now in Australia and one in New Zealand. If you want to know more, check out the camp website at www.sckc.org.au

The first golf day, while not as big as we had hoped, did raise significantly the profile of the organisation and the kids we hope to reach with a hope for the future. I am pictured presenting an award to our third place winner.

My MIracle Car

2008-09-27T08:55:00.001+10:00

In the last CCM newsletter we mentioned that my car (in its 10th year with well over 200,000 kms clocked) would need replacing at some stage. We asked people to pray about this. When I travelled over to the US this last summer (winter in Oz) I was amazed when cheques began to arrive - some from people I had never met. Then when I came home I found that God had been moving in a number of ways, going ahead of me and preparing an incredible blessing. Today, with both joy and tears, I took delivery of a beautiful Subaru Forester that 'fits me like a glove' and will enable the ministry of CCM in Australia to travel safely and well! THANK YOU LORD - thank you to all who are a part of this miracle. I have to keep pinching myself to know it is real - IT IS!

Melbourne Spring.....

2008-09-14T19:33:00.005+10:00

Ten days home - Spring weather's ups and downs, bulbs blooming, blossom just breaking though on barren branches. Sometimes things are never what they seem - my backyard has the remnant of a nectarine tree, and a young cherry. I was delighted to see blossoms on the nectarine - amazing as these flimsy branches have sprung up from a seemingly dead tree. Then the cherry - no sign of anything, and I presumed it was a victim of the water-shortage Melbourne is experiencing. But then, on closer inspection I saw them - the tiniest buds, and today, a tiny green shoot of a leaf. the miracle of life. John 10:10 says "I have come to give you abundant - overflowing - LIFE". I am thankful that I found the LIFE that Christ offers - that when I was DEAD in my own selfishness, His love penetrated the dead wood in my heart, and, just like my cherry tree, He brought forth NEW life. I love the deadness of winter springing into life, to action, to beauty - welcome SPRING!

2008-09-05T15:14:00.003+10:00

When I boarded the plane in Seattle to head for home, I was seated next to an elderly couple, both of whom had arrived at their seats in wheelchairs. As the plane began its descent into LA, the lady remarked how much she was looking forward to being home again, as they had flown all the way from Denmark, where they had been on holiday. I was stunned - so far and so old! Then as we waited to deplane, the man told me that they actually lived in Palm Springs, but that he hadn't felt like DRIVING the three hours and so they would pick up their car but would overnight in a hotel. He then went on to say they he thought they had overdone the travel this year by taking three separate trips - South America, Alaska and now Denmark. I looked at him more closely - if he had said he was 90 I would have believed him. What tenacity! I walked behind them as they were wheeled off the plane, pulling my carry-on which now felt quite light! What an encouragement! Pastor Ron Peretti prayed for me on my last Sunday in Seattle and one of his prayers had been for renewed strength and more opportunities to minister. Hey.....if THEY can do it, it's a cinch! Asia....Europe...AFRICA....I'm ready to get ready!

The end to a great summer....

2008-08-25T10:25:00.003+10:00

Back in Seattle there is so much to do - people to see (some for the first time in 08), last-minute curriculum changes, the September newsletter AND "The Pack". I'm sure I didn't buy much...but there's certainly more than I arrived with! There's much to be thankful for this summer: time with family and friends, great responses from the kids we minister with, the beauty of this north-west corner of America, and the never changing satisfaction of knowing you are where you are supposed to be, ministering with a great friend and anointed ministry. Then there's the way we have been ministered to also - through churches large and small, fellowship with pastors and others who worship at the churches we visit. We hear God's voice in the encouragement we receive, in the way the children respond, in God's word as we prepare our messages, and through sermons when we occasionally have the opportunity to simply sit and enjoy. One great source of ministry to us is in the prayers of many of you who read this blog a(and Sue's), through phone calls, Skype chats, email and snail mail. Thank you! As I prepare to head for home to a new set of challenges, I look back at the US summer with thankfulness and fulfillment. Good times. [Photo: Payette River, Idaho]

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2008-08-19T15:41:00.003+10:00

SUE's MUM and DAD (Bertha and Dale) celebrated 59 years of marriage on August 18.
The day started with Dale giving Bertha a beautiful bouquet of roses as I played "Always" by Harry Neilsson on my laptop (That was their special song!) Then followed "breakfast by demand" - Dad chose scrambled eggs, a sausage and a pancake and so that set the menu! Once that had digested it seemed no time before we headed out to lunch at The Golden Star Chinese Restaurant - I think this was the first restaurant in Boise that I went to with the Carpenter family all those years back! It was hot - in the high nineties - and we were glad of the cool van as we headed home. Dale to bed, Bertha to enjoy her cards and gifts, and Sue and I to take a quick breather before the physio came for Dad. Marriage takes two people who are committed to each other, and in this case, to the Lord. Dale and Bertha's faith has certainly enabled them to rejoice in the good times, and trust during the bad. Do keep them both in your prayers. CONGRATULATIONS - you are loved!

A BIRTHDAY MONTH.......

2008-08-12T06:12:00.008+10:00

WOW! Is August a month of celebrations and merriement????? For me it surely it, although I do miss out on a lot of cake (probably that's a blessing in disguise) Photos show: Seb (on right with Sarah and Edward) Marissa, and below Thomas next to Sarah and Jaymie in front. Top of the page Jenah is talking to two birds! One is very rare!
SO HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...
August 4th - Sue's dad (78) and my godson Sebastian (19)
August 6th - Jenah - one of the coolest kids we know from Idaho City
August 7th - Sue (#*)
August 10th - Nieces Jaymie (9) and Marissa (4)
August 13th Adopted brother Joe and great friend Marilyn
August 15th - Friend Kathy Peretti (a BIG one this year)
August 17th - Nephew Thomas turns 21 - congrats Tom! Amy Tobeck shares this day too! Friends Garry and Lai Eng close the month! PHEW!
and there maybe others who have slipped my mind!
MAY THE LORD BLESS EACH ONE OF YOU, HOLD YOU CLOSE TO HIS HEART and OPEN MANY DOORS DURING THE COMING YEAR. Love to all.

2008-08-12T06:00:00.001+10:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Birthdays......

2008-08-07T08:13:00.004+10:00

Left: Sue's dad Dale celebrated his 78th birthday on August 4. Sue celebrates August 7 and is pictured picking up her BIRTHDAY i-phone at the Apple Store. She hasn't stopped smiling!

TRUE TREASURES

2008-07-26T15:19:00.002+10:00

Treasure....those who know me know I live in an aging house (provided by my parents), don't have a large bank account, or a regular salary, but in my mind I am rich beyond measure. Not only do I have the Lord in my life, but I have been blessed by some wonderful friends and mentors over the years. Two of these have now 'finished their race' and have left this world. The first (see earlier blog entry) was Ps. Richard Holland, the second - pictured - is Earl Murphy who passed away earlier this week. I first met Earl and his wife Nancy in the early sixties, when I was fresh out of college and teaching in primary school. They became friends, mentors, prayer partners. Each year I send them newlsetters and schedules, knowing that wherever I am, they would be praying for both Sue and myself. I will miss Earl's cheeky grin, his love of gourmet foods, particularly the 3 C's - coffee, cheese and chocolate. I feel so far away at this time - I pray for Nan to know God's comfort and love, and look forward to seeing her when I return. Thank you Lord for Earl - I will miss him very much.

LIGHTS - CAMERA - ACTION!

2008-07-26T14:55:00.005+10:00

Gracie and Tom - aka Minnie and Mickey

Everybody loves Rainbow - even Dillon!

Carolyn, Larry and Rainbow

We always try to plan new and relevant programs for those we minister with. This year we developed the Lights-Camera-Action theme. Light - God's light in our lives. Camera - He is watching us to care over us and direct our steps. Action - our response to fulfilling His purpose in our lives. The week long VBS with the Nazarene Church at Colfaz was filled with fun, great music, excited kids, and amidst all the fun and games the "Quiet on the Set" segment some relevant stories from the Bible. Each night children responded during prayer time ...and even some adults joined in, inviting Christ into their lives or joining in a prayer for help in times of challenge and the storms of life. We enjoy the people of Colfax, their great hospitality, and the way EVERYONE gets into the act! The Palouse is a unique area of the northwest - rolling hills of oats, hay, wheat, lentils and more, a patchwork quilt of provision. And the Nazarene Church is a great place of provision too - love, joy, peace, compassion - a church who places value on youth and kids.

KIDS in TOUCH with GOD

2008-07-18T06:50:00.004+10:00

The New Hope International Church (Mercer Island, WA) holds their Family Camp at Warm Beach Conference Center, Stanwood. We have a great relationship with these kids, and many of the first children we ministered to in this camp are now leadership material in the youth group. This year we included a segment on "How God Speaks To Us Today". The children entered into worship and prayer and many drew visions and dreams that the Lord had placed in their hearts. It was powerful stuff! Justin explained his drawing to Sue: "God is simple, not fancy." And went on to explain his drawings: "Wind = calmness Water = wiseness Rock = power Trees = friendship Sun = holiness Grass = sweetness Flowers = love."

On the Tuesday the children went up onstage to sing and share with the adults. To our surprise we were asked to stay while the church honored the senior pastors, guest speakers and us. We were given Hawaiian orchid leis (beautiful) and then the song "Thank You " by Ray Boltz was sung by Vangie, the worship leader, accompanied by a powerpoint with photos of us all. It was quite overwhelming and the first time this has happened this way. It culminated in all the kids surrounding us with hugs (Sue ended up on the floor!) I wouldn't miss this for the world! :)

A CAMP FULL OF "KEEPERS"

2008-07-07T13:47:00.005+10:00

"It's a keeper!" was the catch cry at the annual fishing trip half-way through the RFK Camp in McCall, Idaho. Every child caught a fish - amazing! - with the help of a great band of volunteer counsellors and staff. This camp is the model for the camps we commenced (with a great team beside me) in Australia. Children within the foster care system are referred to camp via case workers. These kids have very diverse backgrounds - abuse, family breakdown, abandonment, inoccent victims of broken relationships. At camp they experience an environment of unconditional acceptance and trust, 'safe' people who genuinely care, and the opportunity to enjoy a week of childhood - something many of them have almost forgotten. Sue and I are privileged to be the speakers at this camp and we are always blessed by the way the children connect with the stories and the life-lessons they provide. We think THESE KIDS ARE "KEEPERS" - filled with the potential to be the person they were created to be.
Check out the RFKC blog at http://www.rfkcboise.blogspot.com/

Camps that give hope...and a whole lot of fun!

2008-07-07T13:24:00.005+10:00

As I write this I am back in Seattle (having flown over mid June) after two camps and a Vacation Bible School in Idaho and Washington states. At the Mountain Kids' Day Camp held over a week in Idaho City (a town totally out of the wild west!) the theme was "Construction - Strong Foundations" Held in the wilds of Camp Ivydale the chapel area is outdoor - a rough built stage with a pine tree backdrop, the chatter of squirrels and birds - beautiful!
Sue (picture) and I were joined by a great team who provided music, a great construction site drama, and fun activities and crafts. Our job was the storytelling, some puppetry (Larry Funzel) and object lessons all pointing to the importance of making good life choices and building lives that are strong and grounded. As Christians we understand the sure foundation of Jesus Christ in our own lives - storms come in all shapes and sizes, and without Him, I don't know where I would be. But my conviction is that HE is my rock and my deliverer (see Psalm 18) and He has proven never to fail.
By the way, the camp director is Michelle Alden - check out Isaiah's Ranch at www.isaiahsranch.org providing great options for kids of all ages.

Indy Cracks it Again

2008-06-03T22:08:00.005+10:00

It's been 20 years since the last Indiana Jones movie, but now he's back. On a spur of the moment thing I found myself sitting alone in a local cinema the day of the opening in Melbourne. I laughed, I gasped, I worked stuff out before it happened, I revelled in the often corny script and the crazy events, and came out having been entertained and transported back a decade or two. For the price of three coffees I had a great two plus hours of rip-roaring adventure, and I can't wait for the next! Had to admit I was impressed with Harrison Ford still doing his own stunts (when for me a stunt is simply getting up the stairs!)

So these past few weeks have included....a course on children's counselling, a day seminar on Spiritiual Abuse, several board/committee meetings, an office move and one fun movie! Just what the doctor ordered. Now where's that whip?

RUBY WEDDING CELEBRATION

2008-05-26T21:44:00.003+10:00

40 Years of Marriage!

Congratulations to my 'sister' Hilary and her husband Pier who celebrated forty years of marriage last Sunday. They have been a real example of commitment to each other and to the whole concept of marriage "in richer, in poorer, in sickness, in health". Their motto would be "In WHATEVER situation we find ourselves in, we will make it work because we trust God and love each other." Proud parents of Matthew and Sally, and even prouder grandparents of Kirrily and Brianna, they are pillars of faith in the church we attend. I pray that the Lord will continue to bless them as they have blessed so many with their wisdom, advice and generous spirit.

Richard Holland: "Going Home"

2008-05-22T22:16:00.007+10:00

On Monday, May 12 I visited Richard in hospital. He was not doing well and didn't not talk as much as he had the day before. However, one thing he did say very defiinitely was "I'm going Home" and that night at 9 pm he did just that. His passing was peaceful for which we are so thankful. Over the past months he had struggled with pain in his back and legs, walking was difficult and he was relying on a wheelchair for most movement. His daughter and son-in-law, Hilary and Pier Van Netten, had moved in with him at the beginning of the year and had cared for him so well. However, as people visited and came to pray for him, he would often respond and pray for them. He was still vitally interested in what we were doing and what was happening in the church. He called Sue's parents shortly before going into hospital, just to encourage and pray for them. This past Tuesday, a Celebration Service of his life was held at CityLife Church with over 1200 people in attendance from all across Australia. Tributes and flowers poured in from around the world: Indonesia, New Zealand, the U.S., Canada, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore....and the list goes on. Several of Richard's family and friends shared at either the graveside or in the church and I have attached my comments. The church did film the service, and there was a wonderful collection of photos shown. If you would be interested in seeing the dvd, please contact me. Richard was a unique person - a man of great passion, vision, faith and compassion; one of the people whose face shone with the love of Christ. I will never forget him, never stop missing him until the day when it will be my time to 'go home'.
[Photo: Richard with daughter Hilary and myself] Check out Mark Conner's blog (go to http://www.citylifechurch.com and click on Mark's blog) to read his comments on Richard, plus Hilary's memories of her dad. There is also a link to a newspaper press release I put together.
Also check out my blog entry on Richard - January 25, 2007
Memories of Richard: Carolyn Boyd
THE HOLY SPIRIT:
I first met Richard when I was 19 and he came to speak at the teacher’s college I was attending in Frankston.
A Christian, I was seeking something more, and when I met Richard, saw the light in his eyes and the enthusiasm he had for ,His Lord I knew I wanted what he had. There is head knowledge and there is heart knowledge, and I soon discovered that Richard knew not only God the Father, and Jesus, he had a vibrant relationship with the Holy Spirit and that made the difference. Travelling home from a Bible Study one night the Holy Spirit came and touched my life as Richard prayed, and yes, I was filled with the Spirit in the PINK Falcon! HOO 708 Richard had a tenacity for the things of God that wouldn’t give up. Interestingly, during that time five students at Frankston were impacted through Richard’s ministry and dynamic enthusiasm and today all five of us are still serving God. I started to attend the church he pastored in Dandenong and his daughter Hilary became a best friend. I should say that Rob and I became “Verbal Swordsmen” and practiced sharpening our wit. I think he won.

CHARTS: Richard was a CHART MASTER! Any surface that could be written on was fair-game and many charts began their life on the back of a serviette or paper tablecloth! I remember once when he was teaching using a chart in an outreach church in Seville. Families gathered in a farmhouse and kids were everywhere. (This being before the time of children’s programs). Richard made sure all the kids were involved, and this night as the taught on the words of Jesus to the seven churches in Revelation, he called out seven children and gave each of them the name of a church..”You are Ephesus, you are Smyrna” and so on. At one stage, he turned to the little girl who was Ephesus and asked "Now which church are you?" Startled, she blurted out “Church of England”. Richard had the ability of drawing in and communicating with people in all stages of life, and those kids never missed a meeting.

FAMILY:
Richard and Garry took me into their family as another ‘daughter”. He called me Shorter Daughter in those days! My parents became best friends with Richard and Garry, and we would often holiday together. Those of you who know Richard know that he didn’t like to sit idle for too long, and so whenever we went away, I would become the Tour Guide and dutifully produce an itinerary with almost every hour accounted for. I would be sure to include “Rest Hour” somewhere in the afternoons for everyone’s benefit and he would reluctantly comply, appearing one hour later walking up and down outside our rooms and looking at his watch. It was time to go again.

In the early days, Hilary and I would take notes copiously, and amongst those notes were some of the RJH bloopers. When praying for a very pregnant lady who had a severe headache, he said, to our horror “Lord deliver her NOW” to which she exclaimed – “No, not yet!” Another time was during communion when he asked the Lord to bless the broken bed. Hard to concentrate after that one.

I don’t think I knew anyone so generous. There are countless individuals and families that he has helped. That was his nature and both he and Garry enjoyed doing this. Richard gave not just of his finances, he gave of his life. I recall many times when he would leave in the middle of the night to visit a sick child or pray for a family in turmoil. It was never too much trouble. He beat the ambulance to my house the morning my mother collapsed and saw her ushered into God’s presence.

CHURCHES:
For some ten years, I had the privilege of serving on church staff, first as Richard’s PA. There was a steady stream of people making their way to his office for words of counsel, common sense advice, prayer and encouragement. He had a gift for believing for barren women to bear children – and there are many here today who would acknowledge the power of those prayers. [Sadly, he didn’t have the gift for finding husbands!]

Over the past fifteen years, I have been involved in travelling to many nations. I visit churches in Malaysia, Thailand, Canada, the US, and others who have been touched by his ministry. He believed fiercely in the miraculous power of God and his greatest desire for the church has been to see this restored. People in Seattle still tell me of the time oil appeared on his hands and he felt the Lord tell him to pray for the church leaders. He did so, and the Holy Spirit fell in an amazing way. That fervency he imparted remains in that church and amongst those leaders today. I also remember a time when he was in Indonesia and was asked to pray for an elderly blind lady. As he began to pray, the Lord gave him a different language. The lady was astonished – Richard wasn’t speaking Indonesian, he was speaking a village dialect, the dialect of that lady. In addition, yes, she was instantly healed.

I still visit a church in Boise, Idaho where Richard preached in the 60’s. There are people there who still talk of this man from Australia whose face shone with the light and love of the Lord and who brought healing and deliverance to so many. To quote Sue Carpenter “For Richard, miracles were the expected heritage of any child of God. Cancer, infertility, pneumonia, were not challenges to God's power, just vehicles to demonstrate it”. Only two weeks or so ago he and Hilary rang Sue’s dad in Idaho to encourage and pray for him. Sue says her family have been so ministered to over the years by his warm Australian voice and prayers at the end of the phone.

McDONALDS: As I said, my parents were great friends with Richard. He and Dad golfed together, argued politics together, prayed together. They visited the sick in hospital and saw many accept the Lord during those times. Perhaps one thing they also did together was vastly improve the coffers of a multi-national corporation. They bestowed their favour on this establishment, visiting several times a week, and in fact in Richard’s later years he carried on that tradition on a daily basis – yes, the establishment was McDonald’s – proving that it’s not just kids that like that place. Vermont South should have a plaque in the wall in his honour – the Friday morning Life Group continues!

FAVORITE VERSES:
Richard was an evangelist – pastor – teacher. He loved the Lord and he loved people and he lived a life of integrity. He often said “It’s not WHO is right, it’s WHAT is right”. In some ways, he gave his life for the people, the children of God, the church. He had a gift of faith and inspired many. Richard had many favourite scriptures, but the two I remember most are:

Hebrews 10:25 “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another and so much more as you see the day approaching.” He believed in the church unwaveringly and was never more distressed when he found people treating going to church as an optional extra in their Christianity.
The other: Hebrews 6:1 “Let us go onto perfection (maturity, completeness) not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith towards God.” That was his prayer for the church – that we might become MATURE in the things of God, not babes, having to be spoon-fed.

CLOSING:
For me, Richard’s passing is bitter sweet – I know he is in the presence of His Lord and has entered into that joy that he spoke of so often. One of the last things he said to me the day he went was “I’m going Home”. However, the selfish part of me wants him to still be around, to hug, to call up and say “please pray” and to know that if Richard was praying then it would be all right. He was my spiritual father, my mentor, my friend, and I know there will never be a day go by without a grateful thought of him.

Thank you Rob and Hil for letting me share your wonderful dad.
Thank you Lord for sharing him with the church worldwide.

Aussie Kids

2008-04-26T21:48:00.005+10:00

During our time in Central Queensland we met with some terrific indigenous children. The church there (Christian Covenant Community - known as 3Ci) busses in local children each Sunday afternoon. They enjoy some food and a great program. We enjoyed being with these kids who responded so well to music, fun and God's word. Funnily enough, although we have been to many nations, this is only the second time we have worked with aboriginal children in Australia. Next January we hope to do more in this field, working with children in the Kimberleys, Western Australia.

Many hands make a new house!

2008-04-01T19:36:00.004+11:00

CityLife Community Care (formerly Knox CC) turned out in force to give my aging home a makeover. More than 60 volunteers began arriving from about 8.00 a.m. last Saturday. They were placed in teams: painting, gardening and carpentry. Having prayed for rain for the last several years, it was impossible to ask the Lord to stop it...but it did hold off until around 1 and even then showers were light. What tremendous servant's hearts these people have - I was so overwhelmed by the care shown to me. Verandas, windows and doors painted, gardens weeded and edged, trees pruned, deck steps totally replaced. And as a special bonus, my own bedroom and ensuite freshly painted! Not only did they work through to 4, but a smaller team offered to come again next week and finish off! THANKS is such a little word for all I feel inside - but THANKS to all who came to bless me - you certainly did, and I am praying that in turn you will be doubly blessed.

Picture: the old green going and the new cream appearing!

The Hope of Easter....

2008-03-22T20:57:00.003+11:00

NEW LIFE.....

Easter....bunnies, eggs, chocolate Bilby's (well, we ARE in Australia) almost everything in the stores except anything about the REAL meaning of the season. Oh - unless you count the cross on the Hot Cross Buns! Now while I enjoy a bun or two and a chocolate egg or six, I can't help despairing that the general population in my nation know very little about this time of year. Stats tell us that the majority of people believe in God but for many it doen't go much farther than that. But for Christians (and for myself) Easter reminds me WHY I am a Christian - a follower of Christ - and HOW I became one. Christianity isn't a cultural thing; you are not born a Christian. Heritage and history has no bearing on your eternal state. Rather you are 'born again' when you realise (a) your need of a Saviour (b) that Jesus Christ fulfilled the qualifications of that Saviour and (c) that His Resurrection provides us with not only forgiveness but access to the presence of God. I wonder at the marvels of creation, the universe, the beauty of the world around me and I acknowledge God the Creator. But knowing the reality of Jesus Christ goes beyond that - my errors, failures and deliberate wrong-doings are forgiven and paid for through His death on a cross. And because of the Resurrection I have new life now and eternal life to come. I hear His voice - in music, as I read the Bible, in response to my prayers, through the encouragement of others. I have seen the miraculous - circumstances turned around, urgent needs miraculously met, relationships restored, healings for bodies and minds and wounded spirits ....and the list goes on. I love Easter - another reminder of the greatness of God's love to His final work of creation - human beings! That's you, that's me.

HAPPY EASTER! And may YOU know the reality of this NEW LIFE!

Ministry in Thailand

2008-03-01T19:14:00.005+11:00

To the left is part of the group of workers from Hope Churches who attended the training conference Sue and I taught. The conference was open to several churches and it was so good to enjoy the good spirit of cooperation between all. We varied teaching with team building activities, games, and object lessons and the response was good. We so appreciated the hospitality and care for us that the church showed. Special thanks to Pinky and Jippy for transport and help throughout our time there.

Look at the faces of the children to the right (athough the little girl back right looks a bit puzzled!) These children were part of an outreach amongst kids in a poorer area of Bangkok. One man in this location heard the gospel and accepted Christ. He, along with his family, have become a ray of light in this place, and each week a team from Rivers of Life Church visits to minister with the children, and have started a church in this squatter area. We enjoyed seeing the Pastor relating so well to these kids - and they responded well to him.

We count it a privilege to be able to share with churches in Thailand who are making a difference!

Update: Catching Up With Kittiphum

2008-02-07T14:44:00.002+11:00

As many of you may know, Carolyn’s on a missionary trip in Asia. This photo and a text message were forwarded on to me on behalf of Carolyn to give us an update on her recent activities. The text reads:

Carolyn shares a meal with Kittiphum, the youth she sponsors through Compassion.

Carolyn and Sue will be flying from Kittiphum’s village back to Bangkok and will be ministering at a church there over the weekend. And then, it’s off to Cambodia on Monday. We’re praying Carolyn and Sue will have a safe journey and God will richly bless them and others through their ministering.

UpDate: Click Here to learn more Compassion International

TIME.........

2008-01-13T17:30:00.000+11:00

Christmas - the wonder on the face of a child looking at a star.......the lights and music.......the timeless message of God's Son sent to earth - is over. New Year's Eve came - a fun time with friends and games and sparklers - and went. It is now mid January - my year is planned (God willing), diaries filled in, dates made, travel plans in action. TIME - The Inevitable March to Eternity - is flying by. I look at my little friend in the photo. For him, time is dictated by sleeping, waking, drinking, playing. It will be awhile for him to register the march of time. For his active brother (almost 6) time can be 'forever' (waiting for Santa) or "too short" (playing with his friends). For me time is the inevitable passing of days, weeks, months, years seemingly gathering speed each year. Was it really four years ago that I stood in Bogota, Colombia, watching street children board a bus for the journey of a lifetime - a camp that would offer them hope? Could it be seven years ago that Sue and I shared God's love with 1600 excited, expectant children under a silk tent in northern India? Sometimes it seems like an age, at others just a 'few months ago". Time is the most precious gift that we have - time to be the best we can be, to do the best we can do, to change the world around us, to reach out in relationships, to excel in generosity, to 'stop and smell the roses or coffee', and for me as a Christian, time to learn more about the God I worship. After all, I believe I'll spend eternity with Him! (And hopefully, with many who are reading this) TIME: one thing is sure, you only go on this journey once. My prayer for 2008 is that we may make every day count in some way to making someone's life a little happier, to encouraging more and criticizing less, to laughing more than we grumble, and for living in thankfulness for the life we have been given. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Proud moment!

2007-12-23T22:59:00.001+11:00

The Wang family are very dear to my heart. Parents Chien Ming and Poh Hong married in Melbourne when they were students studing at Monash University. Shortly after the birth of their first son, they moved to Singapore where Chien Ming (known simply as "Wang") took up a lecturing post at the National University and Poh Hong to teaching at a high school. Christopher (pictured with me) is their second son (another son and daughter followed). I visited often, and several times the family came out to Australia, the most memorable visit being shortly before my father's passing. The children invigorated him and gave us the best Christmas ever!
Chris has been studing at Melbourne Uni for the past six years and graduated recently as doctor. What an incredibly proud moment - a credit to him for his perseverence and hard work and also a tribute to the sacrifice and dedication of his parents. They are a great example to me - devoted to their children, working to provide them with every opportunity in life. Congratulations Chris! You will be a wonderful doctor with your skills and God-given gifts of compassion, friendship and faith.

2007-11-24T21:08:00.000+11:00

THANKSGIVING I love the US tradition of Thanksgiving: the history (pilgrims and Indians) the food (pumpkin pie and caramelised sweet potatoes as well as the turkey) and the gathering of family. I called Sue's family in Boise to wish them greetings, and Sue's aunt Olive called out "do they have thanksgiving in Australia?" To which I retorted "No - we are an ungrateful nation." Of course they laughed, but after the call ended I did think about those words. Are we an ungrateful nation? Am I an ungrateful person? The answer to that one was easy "Definitely NOT!" And so here is some of my "Thankful" list.
I am thankful for:

family (extended and multinational) and close friends of all ages and nationalities
being born in a free nation where freedom to worship and freedom of speech and a 'fair go' for the common man are taken for granted
a house to live in (thanks Mum and Dad!) and a car that has served me well
health and energy to continue to work with kids and children's workers everywhere
enough money to pay my bills, put petrol in the car and food on the table
a Church that does make a difference in our community and beyond
and most of all for the God who created me, His Son who saved me, and The Holy Spirit who daily leads my walk called "life"

WOW....yes, I am thankful. How about you?
Link: Life, God, thankfulness
draft

"If You Build It......"

2007-10-21T21:05:00.000+10:00

To finish the quote from Field of Dreams "they will come". We are hoping that a general manager will come to take SCKC to the next level. I have been involved with Southern Cross Kids Camps since its inception in 2000. We work with kids in foster care, or within the social welfare system. Most of these kids are having it tough and these camps allow them to experience unconditional acceptance, no-strings-attached love, a listening ear and the chance to build some happy childhood memories. Next year seven camps will run - six in three states of Australia and one in New Zealand. The board of directors are all volunteers and work from home. SCKC has two part-time staff for admin and accounts and NOW there is an office for them to work from, an office I will be at for several hours each week that I am 'home' and now the very real prospect of moving on via finding the right general manager. How did this happen? Through the vision, commitment to the cause of SCKC and generosity Jason Smith of the Back In Motion Health Group stepped in and has allowed us to use a portion of his corporate headquarters. We have our own entrance, reception area and two large offices! WOW! SCKC now has a physical presence in the community and we plan to make an impact. Check out www.sckc.org.au and its U.S. inspiration www.rfkc.org

The child within.....

2007-09-24T00:11:00.000+10:00

Around ten years ago, Sue insisted that we needed a character puppet to add to the programs we were doing with kids. She bought a worm puppet and "Larry Funzel" was born. At first I wasn't convinced that Larry would be a puppet people would warm to, but true to form, he wormed his way into thousands of hearts, mine included. You could say that we are the closest of c0-workers and I am needed to give him a helping hand. But somewhere between the script and the performance, a strange transformation takes place. Larry takes on his own personna - radical, conniving, confusing, frustrating, funny, warm, tricky, muddled, endearing.... he is a bundle of contradictions and kids young and old love him. School kids chant "Larr-ee, Larr-ee" until he appears, and at one camp teens long graduated from the kids program still turn up to give him candy. One young friend was heard fiercely defending him at a recent camp "Of course Larry's real. A puppet can't have his own email can he!" Yes, Larry does have his own email. For the curious it is larry.funzel@carpenters-cross.org He is soon to feature in podcasts from the ccm website and so the legend lives on. Larry has taught me many things, not the least being "Don't judge by the outward appearance" which reminds me of the Bible verse "Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord sees the heart." I know there are many handsome puppets out there but I've seen Larry's heart (he tells me good earthworms have up to nine of them) and as far as I am concerned, Larry is here to stay.

GO MARINERS!

2007-09-03T11:09:00.000+10:00

"GOTTA LOVE THESE GUYS" goes the slogan for the Seattle Mariners baseball team. Sue jokes that there are three conditions in my "contract", namely a visit to the Museum of Glass, a trip to the coast, and one Mariners' game. Two out of three is par for the course, but this year I made it to all three!

Sadly, the M's didn't win, but I love the atmosphere of the game. Family groups predominate, language and drinking are carefully watched, and the thrill of the big crowd, with the carefully placed music or sound affects to draw a supportive response all make for a great few hours. Behind us was a family which included a young boy, possibly 4 years old. He sat perched on his dad's lap and watched every innings intently. As the pitcher wound up I would hear the voice from behind "Strike him out Felix , strike him out!" Felix Herndandez did his best, but victory was not to be that day. Not for lack of support from the young man behind! I was amused at his dedication and the fact that he knew his players! "Hit it out of the park Ichiro!" "Make a home run Beltre!" Sue and I work with young (and not so young kids) most of the year. Just as this young man was absorbed in baseball, so our delight is in kids who realise that we play in the greater game - the game of life - and the Master Coach, Jesus, is there to help us all the way! "Make a home run......." you fill in your name!

2007-08-28T13:37:00.000+10:00

A lesson on "Trust". During the VeBS (Very Exciting Bible School) held at New Hope International Church Sue used a great object lesson to talk about "trust". Darlene knew that the cup over her head held water - she had watched Sue pour it in - but could she trust that she would stay dry when Sue turned that cup upside down? Well, you'll be glad to know that she did stay dry (trade secret as to how) but it illustrated a good point. When things look bad or dark or simply impossible that's when all we CAN do is to trust. Not trust in people, or finances, or possessions, but trust in the One who made us and knows us best of all. I have been in many situations when there seemed to be no way out, but I have learned to trust the Lord to keep me in the hollow of His hand. And He does.

R U a BIG picture/small picture person?

2007-08-12T03:43:00.000+10:00

This is one of my favorite parts of the Australian coastline in my home state of Victoria. When I stand on this beach my eyes head out to sea, to the horizon (and beyond in my mind). Can you imagine what it would be to stand here and focus on a single grain of sand near my feet or just one rock? I would miss so much more of God's creation, His beauty, His world. Yet this is what happens to us in life - we obsess on a single word, or attitude or event - and that obsession inhibits our ability to relate well to others, to experience the blessings of forgiving and the freedom in being forgiven. These deep thoughts come to mind following a great event held in Sue's home town to celebrate 20 years of itinerant ministry to kids worldwide. Sue remarked to me: "So many people from so many churches all coming together - some of them haven't fellowshipped with each other in years." Well, if we believe that is what will happen in heaven - why not work on it now? One of the Bible verses we have been using this summer with the kids is from Ephesians 4:32 "Forgive one another ....even as Christ forgave you."

Miracle Mountain

2007-07-22T16:19:00.001+10:00

Miracle Mountain is always just that - a place where miracles do take place. Miracles of love in young hearts, of healing, of encouragement and of hope for a future. I love the emphasis on everybody having a part to play. Here some of the kids join in the praise time on their own instruments and they did a great job. After service is over, the music starts again and kids dance around the tent. The Lord really does touch hearts, both young and old. On the first night we had a number of kids and one adult invite Jesus to be a part of their lives. That is exciting...and a miracle! For Sue and I this camp is always a time where we find ourselves encouraged by kids and workers alike. We always take something away with us in a spiritual sense. People often ask "How do you get ministered to when you are always taking the kids' program?" As Sue says "The same way pastors are ministered to - they don't get many breaks away from the responsibility of bringing a message to their people. We spend time with the Lord ourselves, PLUS you would be amazed how many children minister to us...along with adults who take time to share what they feel the Lord is saying." That's what being a part of the 'body of Christ' is all about.

Look at me - I'm Happy!

2007-07-08T15:59:00.000+10:00

This past week was spent at McCall, Idaho at the Boise Royal Family Kids' Camp. Forty-three kids - all in foster care - had an amazing week of camp. Games, music, activity centres, swimming, chapel, laughs and more. Kids from all backgrounds of neglect and abuse experienced caring people all showing unconditional love and acceptance. Kids were listened to, affirmed, praised, encouraged and challenged to participate in zipline, archery, ropes course and canoeing. Down at the dock I took a photo of one of the younger campers and when I showed her the photo in the camera screen she exclaimed "Look at me! I'm happy!"

That was the thing she noticed - 'I am happy". Happiness is surely every child's right, but sadly many children rarely experience this emotion. If you can get behind one of the 150+ RFKC camps this summer, please do so and allow more troubled and hurting kids experience some 'happy childhood memories"

Check out: http://www.rfkc.org/ and http://www.rfkcboise.org/ and http://www.sckc.org.au

The Ripple Effect of a Life of Influence

2007-06-28T03:51:00.000+10:00

THE RIPPLE EFFECT - A Life of Influence

Last month Sue's cousin Jeanette Kruljac went home to be with the Lord. Jeanette had fought a good fight against Non-Hodgkins and over the years we had seen the Lord's hand in so many ways in her life. It was with disbelief that I received the call from Sue that she was now with Jesus. I first met Jeanette in 1978 when a friend and I toured western US for the first time. I have been her pen-pal since my pastor Richard Holland (Founding Pastor of CityLife Church in Melbourne) visited Jeanette's church and ministered to their youth group. Jeanette and I corresponded for some years before I got to visit. Her kids Greg and Lisa were about 8 and 2 at the time and we had a great week with them. It was during this visit that I first met Sue and her family and we too began to spasmodiacally correspond. The rest is history - my church brought Sue out to minister in 1990 and again in '91 and she and I began working together in '92. Through Jeanette - her encouragement, her prayers and continued support - we have touched the children of nations around the world. As I heard stories of Jeanette's life I realised that all with whom she came into contact were in some way impacted. Neighbours, work colleagues, church members - all were ministered to in some way. Jeanette's love of life and family, her spontaneous joy even when her body was under attack, her love and loyalty to Larry and her kids (all of them) and her honor and love for her parents Bud and Olive was inspirational. We will miss her laugh and sparkling eyes, her love of adventure (she wanted to visit Australia so much) and generous spirit. We mourn a loss.....but heaven rejoices as Jesus says "Well done".

Mountain Moments.....

2007-06-24T15:50:00.000+10:00

In the month since I last blogged, I prepared to leave for the US summer camp program with Sue, met with SCKC board and personnel on several occasions, spoke at a couple of churches and hosted a friend from Brisbane. Flew out on June 13 for Seattle and after two days there headed down to Boise. On Sunday we drove to Idaho City - a small western town that was in its heyday in the 1800's when gold was discovered. Every year a non-profit organisation "Isaiah's Ranch" hold several camps and events for kids and teens in this mountain area. The week long day camp reached 38 needy kids, hungry for attention and love. On the last day of camp I invited kids to come out and share what they had enjoyed about camp. Usually this centres on the games, the crafts etc. but this year was different. Almost every child commented that the best thing about camp was the love they felt, the care of so many people, the fact that kids chose to be nice to other kids, that they made more friends than ever before and on it went. It is our privilege to be a part of this camp, headed up by Michelle and Tim and a great team for volunteers. If you want to know more, check out www.isaiahsranch.org

"A little child...."

2007-05-20T20:26:00.001+10:00

Today a friend and I had lunch in a local restaurant. As a confirmed "people watcher'" I enjoyed the scene at the next table, obviously a family get-together. A young couple with their first baby, their parents, possibly a brother and his wife, and their grandparents. Four generations around the same table and all with eyes only for the new arrival. The little girl was passed from hand to hand, a proud dad pointing out all the important things "Look at her smile...her hair...her little hands...." A grandfather was constantly videoing at every angle and the great grandparents simly smiled and nodded, delighted at the "next generation." It was a circle of family, all focused on one tiny baby. I couldn't help but think of the African quote that "it takes a vilage to raise a child" and that reminded me of speaking at a baby dedication service many years ago. The verse that I used is the one Isaiah uses speaking of the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given." Christians understand that this verse speaks of Jesus' earthly birth, as a child, AND his status as deity - a son - the son of God - is given." Jesus, both man and God. But I saw this verse as having some application to all births. Every child is given by God to their parents as an earthly child, but their potential is to become a son or daughter of God, and parents need all the help they can get. If you, like me, belong to a Christian community or church, take a look at all your young families with their earthly children....and remember you can be role model and a godly influence in helping these little ones reach their spiritual potential. Keep an eye out for single parents in particular - they may love a spare set of grandparents to be in the life of their child.

Happy Birthday Sarah!

2007-05-15T21:56:00.000+10:00

Sarah and her family celebrating
21 great years. Love the smile.....

Pic on right: The cousins. Four great young adults (well, Sarah IS 21 and Jon and Tom are not far behind...Oh and Jaymie is 7 going on 8....) These young people give me great joy - they make time for me - I love 'hanging out' with them. (Actually I am the ONLYone with anything hanging out!) I enjoy listening to their world...uni....dreams and aspirations....and most of all what God is doing in their lives. Congrats Sarah - you are a true Princess and God's love shines through you. [Loved the dvd's too...and the cake.....and the laughs....and your friends are awesome. Go girl!

2007-05-01T20:38:00.000+10:00

World Impact Week - CityLife Church

World Impact is the missions arm of CityLife. What a tremendous vision they have to plant churches world wide. To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the church some 42 missions workers were flown in from their fields in S.E. Asia, Eastern Europe, India, Russia, Indonesia, Africa, the Middle East and Australia. How impacting it was for us to meet together, to renew old friendships and forge new ones, to see a bigger picture of God working in the world. We were both ministered to in many ways - practical, spiritual, social.

It was a great week of refreshing and a fitting finish to Sue's marathon three months of ministry in Cambodia, Malaysia and several states of Australia. She flew home May 1 to minister at a Women's Retreat, spend time with family in Boise and prepare for the summer ministry time in the US.

Pic #1 is the group photo of all our workers (blurred intentionally)

Pic #2 Sue and I at our info table for International Night.

CONGRATULATIONS SUE!

2007-04-13T19:14:00.000+10:00

Twenty years ago this month, Sue took a 'leap of faith' and stepped out of a secure position on church staff in her home town of Boise, Idaho. She moved to Seattle and launched an ininerant ministry working with churches in reaching children and training and equipping children's workers. The early years were a test of faith but as Sue puts it: "The safest place for you to be is in the centre of God's will for your life". And over the years this has proven true. CCM (Carpenter's Cross Ministries) has travelled to many countries including India, Indonesia, Cambodia, Czech Republic, China and more, training national workers and inspiring people everywhere with passion for kids. Congrats Sue - seen here cutting her cake and talking to Larry (AKA Carolyn). Coincidentally Larry chalks up 10 years and Carolyn 15 as part of the CCM team.

Watery thoughts!

2007-03-31T22:02:00.000+10:00

There is something about water - the ocean, a bay, river, even a small splashing stream - that refreshes the weary and smooths away the stresses of daily life. We were able to snatch four days away a week or so ago in the midst of an incredibly busy schedule and head to a little spot near the start of the Great Ocean Road in southern Victoria. Airey's Inlet is marked by a lighthouse, a few stores and not much else - but it is rich in atmosphere, peace, tranquility and a sense of time standing still. Which was just what we needed to regroup and prepare for the rest of Sue's time in Australia. The wonder of God's creation never leaves me - rockpools, anenomes, shells, the wheeling gulls and the endless rolling of the waves. I can never get enough of that. Which makes me wonder - does God feel the same about His final creation....about us? I suspect He does especially when we respond to His love or His correction or simply His presence. It's His presence that we need daily - spiritual water - whether in worship or prayer or as we open His Word and invite Him to speak to us.

How Far Would You Go For a Krispy Kreme????

2007-03-17T17:38:00.000+11:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all our Irish friends (and who isn't?) It seems that Sue and I have Irish ancestry in common - on her mother's side but on both my parent's sides (along with a good mix of Scottish and English and whatever else). SO what did we do when we found ourselves down at Knox City Mall today? The Irish Pub was in full swing (emphasis on "full") with green beer and Irish dancers. But it was at Krisy Kreme we found our true Irish roots. We stopped to look at the GREEN donuts....and then read the fine-print. "Show us your best Irish jig and receive one FREE Irish donut". Now who could resist? I launched into a great jig, hands steadfastly to the sides...to the amazement of the barely-out-of-school lads behind the counter. I am sure they had NEVER seen an overweight woman of my age do anything this crazy before. Then it was Sue's turn - although she had looked a bit surprised at my spontaneous performance - and she too launched into a frenzy of fancy footwork and turns! We both exited munching our freebies...green and all!

T-Shirt Truths

2007-03-17T17:08:00.000+11:00

Cambodia always impacts us - the kids, the passion of the workers, the transformed lives of the local church members - it's a great place to stop and takc stock of the important things in life. One of the young men was wearing a tshirt with the slogan: "You'll never know Jesus is all you need 'till all you have IS Jesus". Thoughtprovoking? We thought so. Many of the people here have so little - get past the western style facade that Phom Penh is hastily erecting and you find yourself in villages that have changed little. Subsistence farming, poor water supply (if any), shacks of palm leaves and bamboo, malnutrition in the children, disease and the still present danger of land mines. In some of the larger towns there is progress and many NGO's (Non Government Organisations) are doing valuable work improving living standards, equipping schools, building infrastructure. So what make the difference? How can the kids' pastor Vimean (pictured) look so happy? His office is under the corrugated iron roof of the church building - in the consistently hot climate of Cambodia the heat regularly 'melts' the computer systems in the church. But he doesn't complain. His smile says it all "I have Jesus and if I can introduce him to the kids in my city...my province...my nation I will give them the source of ALL they need." It's a challenge to me - I look at what I think I need......and all those things start to fade. As the old song says: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his glorious face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his goodness and grace."

By the way: Sue and I support Children in Crisis in Cambodia by selling woven cotton bracelets which come complete with photo card and brief history of kids being helped through this program. Each bracelet sells for US1 or $2 Australian. Let us know if you want some.

Cambodia's Children

2007-02-09T02:18:00.000+11:00

This little boy is waiting for Joy Club to begin on the rooftop of a building in Phnom Penh. This photo touches my heart as I see him peeping from behind the 'bars' and I think of the unseen bars for the many children like him in Cambodia. Bars of starvation, of hopelessness, lack of a home or family stability. The children who attend New Life Centre's Joy Club are from the poorest of the poor and many simply sleep on the streets. The workers at Joy Club wash them, tend to their sores, replace clothing and shoes, and send them out with a bag of food, shampoo and soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste. The fortified Soy milk has made a difference, but it is still not enough for their weekly nutritional requirements. Perhaps the greatest thing that the Joy Club team gives is love, respect, affirmation and words of hope from God's Word. When we return home we want to feature these kids in our website - please check it out in a couple of weeks time and see how you can help! www.carpenters-cross.org

A Man of Faith

2007-01-25T21:00:00.000+11:00

Richard Holland has been a spiritual father, mentor and friend over many years. His daughter Hilary and I go way back, and he was the founder of my home church, CityLife Church in Melbourne, Australia. When Richard started the church 40 yrs back this year, it was called Waverley Mission, then Waverley Christian Fellowship and now City Life. As you see from the photo, Sue Carpenter is back in town as of yesterday, and the first person she wants to see is Richard. A tremendous man of faith, Richard has seen many thousands of miracles, healings and lives changed and renewed by the power of God. He is also a man of great vision - when my father (who served as an elder in the church) found the land that the current church in on, Richard immediately saw it all: the church built in several stages, a school, community centre and a retirement village. In 1981 when the land was purchased there were 350 in the church but now almost all of that vision has come to pass - a church of more than 6000 in attendance every week, a school with over 1000 students, a community care centre with qualified counsellors, medical services, social workers and more. Only the retirement village did not eventuate [many of us older members of the church may regret that!] We thank the Lord for the "fathers" in the church today - godly men who can be trusted to walk the way they talk! We love you Richard!

NIGHT BEAUTY

2007-01-21T17:04:00.000+11:00

Some years back I was walking through the botanical gardens in Singapore late at night, enjoying the cooler air after a hot and steamy day. Pausing by a pond, I admired the water lilies which seemed to float on the water. Some were competely open while others were in various stages of opening. Now the majority of flowering plants open wider in the sunlight, but there are some that are at their best in times of darkness. These particular water lilies were such plants. Makes me think - dark times [grief, disappointment, rejection, the challenges of illness or a broken relationship, all the struggles of life] can bring out the best in us. As a Christian I know that there are resources I have not always drawn on [how often I try to solve problems in my own strength). Resources such as pressing into God's presence as never before, asking Him for direction, for strength, searching His word for insights and sometimes just comfort. And all these are there - they are always there because HE is always there. I love they way David puts it in Psalm 116 "I love the Lord because He has heard my voice..." Jeremiah puts it this way (God says) "Call on me and I will answer you."
But the onus is on us to call....not half-hearted but with desperation, truly wanting God to respond and willing to listen to the way in which He chooses to respond. I sat beside one water-lily waiting for that last petal to open...it was like watching the hour hand on a clock - you CAN see it move if you look intently enough - and after about 40 minutes there it was...the last petal fully extended completing the perfect flower just the way it was created to be.

Fruit which remains....

2007-01-18T09:45:00.000+11:00

While in Idaho we had breakfast with two of Sue's 'kids' [sorry guys!] Dena Cambra and Terry White were part of Sue's Super Sundayschool when she was Children's Pastor at Central Assembly. Now Dena is a college basketball coach back east and Terry is a professional singer living in Nashville. It is always exciting to see where GOd takes those we minister to and grow to love, and to know that the truths taught and the personal encounters with God through family and church will bear 'fruit that remains'. Sue is so proud of these two - in the best possible way! We pray '07 will be a great year for both Terry and Dena on every level - spiritually, physically and relationally.
Bible reference: John 15:16

Photo album

2007-01-18T00:10:00.000+11:00

1. Sue, Dad and Mom on Christmas morning
2. John with Oatie
3. Larry with Sue on the "Oops" program for public access TV
4.Sue and De Ann at Terrace Lakes, Idaho.

Family and Friends

2007-01-15T23:45:00.000+11:00

When it comes down to it, Christmas is really about family and friends, and whilst I have some great extended family and many loyal friends, usually on Christmas morning I wake up and wander out to the tree in the living room, put on my Christmas music and sit down to open my gifts. This is the one time in the year when I feel alone ...and then the phone rings. Sue and her family are always the first to call, and so it was such a blessing to be able to be with them this time.

Christmas in Idaho

2007-01-15T23:33:00.000+11:00

I can't believe Christmas has come and gone! For the first time in 12 years I had the joy of returning to Boise for a white Christmas. As we flew down over the foothills I was dismayed to find brown, not white! Later in the afternoon I stood outside in the cold and asked God to smile on me and send me snow! Can you believe that several flakes immediately landed on me - no snowstorm, but enough to show up on my black coat! It was a SIGN I told everyone. After that I was caught up in the busyness of the season - shopping, visiting, eating, preparing, shopping...and on it went. I loved the cold, the lights, the Christmas music (after all Chestnuts Roasting by an Open Fire does nothing to me on a typical hot Christmas Day in Melbourne, Australia!) And then it happened....about four days before Christmas it snowed...and snowed again...and the ground was still white on Christmas morning. That's all I needed - not mounds of snow, but a soft, even cover to complete my Christmas dream. It reminds me of the simple things in life - I was satisfied with what I got in terms of snow - Lord, let me be satisfied with what I have in other areas too.

Family.......

2006-10-30T09:54:00.000+11:00

IN the 1970's overseas students were arriving in Melbourne to study at university. We opened out home and our hearts to some of the greatest young people and friendships were formed for eternity. Pictured here are the children my "adopted" brothers Joe and David: Jonathan, Sarah, Thomas. In the top picture Jonathan is with his younger sister, Jaymie. These young people have been such a joy to me - I first held Jonathan when he was just a few hours old! Now the three older kids are at university themselves, and Jaymie is a delight as she goes into Grade 2 next year. Their parents are amazing also: Joe and Shof lead a Life Group and Joe is on pastoral staff at my home church (CityLife). In fact he is the pastoral oversight on the CCM board and I so appreciate his input in my life. David and Mei are dynamos, leading a Life Group and ministering in so many areas. David is one of the Children's Pastors at CityLife and Mei ministers to the young mothers in the church and among her patients. (She is a midwife). I feel so privileged to be a part of their families.

Family.....

2006-10-22T20:21:00.000+10:00

Family......
I get asked about my family when I travel and so thought it time to introduce some of them to "Cub's Place". While I have not been blessed with "biological kids" I have some great family! Pictured are my nieces, Simona and Kelly with some of their offspring. Kelly is holding her younger daughter Marissa and Simona's youngest daughter Sarah, while Simona is with her eldest daughter, Hannah. There are three other kids not in the photos - Ella (Kel's eldest) and Tori (Sim's second daughter) are in swimming lessons, and Cody (Simona's eldest) is at school. They are great kids - always on the go! I love them heaps....just don't get to spend too much time with them.

The Hi's and Lo's of JET LAG

2006-10-10T07:06:00.000+10:00

Arrived back home (Melbourne) after being awake for around 38 hours (most of them in the air). In bed by 10 and asleep moments later...only to wake three hours later...and that was it! Day Two: asleep early evening (with assistance of over-the counter stuff) and made it through to 3 something. Not bad! The Lo's of jet-lag? Having to turn down a call for an Emergency Teacher for a day (couldn't see myself functioning well enough!) Concentration problems mid-day due to an incredible desire to sleep....being woken not long after getting to sleep by two phone calls, from people who had NO IDEA that ANYONE would be in bed by 7.30 let alone asleep (I was!). What about the Hi's? Are there any? Surprisingly YES! Getting to view and hear some great messages from some of the Christian speakers that go to air in the wee small hours. Joyce Meyer and her guest J. John discussing the relevant of the Ten Commandments in our society was today's example. Seeing the first rays of dawn creep across the sky... heralded by some amazing bird-song....sitting up in bed and logging on to check email....fill in the blog....all with a great lack of pressure. No likelihood of a phone call or interruption at 4 a.m.! Seeing my favorite weather man Al Roker on the U.S. Today Show...and getting to see the opening hour of SUNRISE (a rare event!)and mulling over the news of the day. Hmmm....today it was global reactions to North Korea's nuclear test AND the big breaking stuff - why toast that is buttered or vegemited when dropped, falls buttered side down. Captivating viewing! It's good to be home!

The Future of the Czech Republic...

2006-10-07T05:12:00.000+10:00

The children in Brno crept into our hearts and remain there. We journeyed by bus (complete with attendant who plied us with drinks every few minutes so it seemed) and were met by Katka and her husband Marek who hosted us for the weekend. Katka heads up the children's ministry at Word of Life Church. We had a great time with them, and enjoyed meeting and ministering to children's workers from several churches. The final sessions on the Saturday were for parents and we looked at some basic foundations that children need today. Sunday was full-on with two services happening and we ministered with Katka and Marek and two great groups of kids. Katka has the same vision that we have - that children can know the reality of a living God, can hear His voice and share His love with others, and appropriate the message for living that is found in the Word of God for their own lives. Christian children are in the vast minority - pray for them to grow strong and stand as an example of good choices in action!

Satan's City?- Not if Thomas has his way!

2006-09-30T05:16:00.000+10:00

On Thursday night we had the privilege of travelling to the north of the city with Thomas F. who works with street kids in that area. Amidst many communist built high-rise blocks of flats, he gathers children and youth to come to the many activities held during the week. The premises are a disused shop at the base of one of the blocks, and here there is a table tennis table where youth can come to play. Thomas and his team arrange for adventure activities during the holidays - canoeing, rock climbing, hiking and more - and gradually he has built a small group of youth who regularly attend. Their Christian experience is limited and we realised that there is much to do in their hearts and lives. We met with six of these teens and were able to have a fun workshop on puppetry, but the best part was seeing them repeat an entire puppet skit in Czech to the group of children who came to the evening program. None of these younger children had had any previous exposure to Christianity and for many it was the first time they had heard of "GOD". Our interpreter was Katka - a medical doctor - who each week works alongside Thomas and team to reach the young people of this area - literally called in Czech "Satan's City". Please pray with us that the strongholds of this area would crumble and that a new generation for God would emerge!

God's Gardeners!

2006-09-26T06:35:00.000+10:00

The Czech Republic has an abundance of leafy trees, wide, green fields, and the streets and houses feature many colorful flowers - roses, geraniums, sun flowers - produce of enthusiastic gardeners. However, the gardeners in this blog entry are planters of churches - bringers of good news to a country still bearing the marks of communism along with the trappings of the new economy - materialism. It's a hard slog to plant here. Years of prepation in prayer, hard work in contacting, outreaching and finally pastoring those who respond. For many people, any church other than Orthodox is viewed with suspicion as a cult. We feel privileged to have met and ministered with several great "gardeners". In Prague, in Hradec Kralove and other towns around the country children, youth and adults are being born into the kingdom of God, and planted in local churches. The majority of churches are small - but there is an atmosphere of hope and determination to take the message wider. For us, the workshops, meetings and family services have been a small input into a wider picture. Please remember to pray for the Czech Church to continue to grow, flourish and reproduce a fantastic crop of fruit in its season. Note: Photos - Sue looking towards Wencelas' Square and Stanislav and Eva - two fantastic planters!

9/11

2006-09-12T01:51:00.000+10:00

Sue and I were in Northern India on September 11, 2001. Not far from the Pakistani border, we had just finished sharing in a pastors' conference and returned to our hotel room to watch CNN and saw the second plane hit the World Trade Centre. We sat for hours, watching at first in disbelief and then horror as the events unfolded. Some of those images are indelibliy ingrained in my mind. For Sue is was even harder - she was so far away from her family, and at a time such as this, family is more precious than ever. To make matters worse, the nation we were in reacted in different ways. Where we were, there was genuine dismay and sympathy, but further south people came out into the streets to rejoice. God really intervened and Sue was able to fly out as scheduled when all US airlines were grounded. She was one of the few U.S. passengers who managed to get on another airline. Both of us learned some important things that night and on this fifth anniversary, I thought I would share these.
1. My world perspective changed - the world became a smaller place somehow, with no nation out of range of evil, and no one nation could afford to be isolated. We need each other.
2. The ONLY safe place is to be where God wants you to be and to be walking close to Him.
3. There is no guarrantee of TOMORROW. Live today wisely, compassionately, generously.
4. Refuse to lose! Don't let evil destroy your PEACE, your ability to ENJOY life, your sense of humour, and above all, your sense of PURPOSE! As a Christian I know that my life is in God's hands - and that's the safest place I can be!
So on this Sept 11 I remember those who died in the towers and in the planes. I remember the bravery of the rescue forces and the incredible way they perservered untiringly until there could be nothing further done for those still lost. I remember the nations that trembled and the continuing changes that commenced on that day. But most of all I remember that God is my hiding place. Check out Psalm 18:1,2

Hello Melbourne!

2006-09-09T22:12:00.000+10:00

It's a long flight home! Up early to do the last minute cleaning up of the room, check for stuff that shouldhave been packed, then head out to the airport. Surprisingly SEATAC is uncrowded - school is back in so maybe fewer families are travelling. Say good-byes and "See you in two weeks" to Sue who I will meet up with in Vienna, then onto my comuter flight to LA. Southwest is a great company to fly with...but my flight goes via Sacramento, more time spent sitting on the tarmac and at last into LA. In LA we change gates three times before finally taking off just 30 mins late. By now I have been up 16 hours and have a 13 hour flight to Auckland ahead of me followed by another 3 plus hours on to Melbourne. But God is good - the Air New Zealand plane is a new Boeing 767 and I have a spare seat next to me. The flight is smooth and soon the clouds and cold air of Melbourne greet me, along with my old friend Hilary who has met me EVERY time I return home. And there I am - back in my aging house and feeling as if hadn't left. It's a weird thing. I just left a place in Seattle that also felt like "home". Sets me wondering about heaven. Christians talk about it a lot...but not too many really want to get there 'just yet'. I think it's going to feel just like home...my REAL home....and I have a strong feeling that I won't have jet-lag when I finally make that trip! And speaking of jet-lag, bed sounds awfully good.........zzzzzzz.

Farewell Seattle!

2006-09-05T06:32:00.000+10:00

The summer has just about ended in the US...although you wouldn't know it in Seattle as the temperatures are still touching 80 (high for here!) As I farewell friends, the nation is farewelling a much loved Aussie character - Steve Irwin. The TV today is full of the story of his bizarre and premature death (how else would the Crocodile Hunter depart but pursuing the thing he loved most- encounters with the wild). He has done more for tourism than any other Aussie, far outdoing Paul Hogan's "throw a shrimp on the barbie" image. Today every newschannel is covering the story on a half-hourly basis, playing and replaying interviews, comments from John Howard and wildfile experts. It is rivalling airspace for news on the Iraq war.
In an interview with Larry King, Steve talked about his ability with animals as "A gift that God placed inside me". Inspired by his father, who founded the Australian Zoo, he wrestled with snakes before he started school and caught his first croc at nine years of age. He was focused and pursued his goal to educate others on every possible angle of the animal kindgom. In another interview this week Tiger Woods shared on the deep relationship he had with his father, how focused he was from infancy to pursue golfing excellence and be "the best that I can be". His success has enabled him to open the Tiger Woods Learning Centre - a multi-media learning environment that will afford kids from lower income families to have access to a wonderland of educational resources. He says that this achievement is his greatest acheivement. And for recreation? He plays golf! He LOVES what he does, just as Steve LOVED what he did.
Which leads me to ask some important questions: What has God placed in my life to use for others? Do I have a passion to use that gift/s? Am I pursuing my passion? What brings me the greatest joy? Satisfaction? When I leave this world, will my life have been of benefit to others? Because that's what it's all about - using what God has given EACH ONE OF US for the purpose for which He has given it. How about you?

Parents in Seattle!

2006-08-31T15:30:00.001+10:00

We just had a great week with Sue's parents, Dale and Bertha (Dad and Mom C to me). Dale faces the daily challenge of MS, and Bertha has the role of major carer, so life is often difficult. Sue and I prayed about bringing them over to Seattle for a change of air and activity and purchased the air tickets. We travelled north of Seattle to book a wheelchair accessible van plus a motorised chair for the week and committed whatever came in the honorarium for the VBS we were doing for New Hope church on Mercer Island. We duly picked up the van and chair and headed to the airport. It was a stressful time for Mom and Dad C to actually get on to the plane, but Sue's sister De Ann was wonderful and saw them on at her end in Boise. Sue got a special Escort Pass to greet them at the gate (this is no longer possible for non-travellers since 9/11) and I manoevered the wheelchair from carpark to waiting area. When Dale was wheeled in by an airlines worker, I stood from my chair to greet him, much to the gasps of onlookers. I should have cried "It's a miracle" but didn't. From then on the week flew by. Each day we made one major trip and atel lunch out, getting back mid-afternoon to allow for rest time and an early night. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the waterfront in Seattle, dining at The Fisherman's Restaurant waterside, visitin Gig Harbour and then the Hawthorn Tea Rooms in Tacoma, and then 'doing' brunch at Salty's at Redondo Beach - an awesome gastronomic experience. I know this was a week that they won't forget and neither will we. And when that honorarium arrived from New Hope it covered all our expenses and more. God is SO GOOD.

Golden Anniversary

2006-08-21T09:47:00.000+10:00

In the midst of VBS and Sunday ministry Sue and I tackled the traffic on the "freeway" - at times it took 30 mins to go 10 miles - we drove from Federal Way to Abbotsford, Canada to celebrate Dave and Vi McElhoes fifty years of marriage. It was a great night of reminiscing, laughter, the obligatory (but very good) slideshow and some great items from kids and grandkids. One special joy was seeing the first two great-grandkids of this awesome couple. I have know Dave and Vi since the 70's when David first came to Australia to minister. They are a great couple who always encourage Sue and I whenever we get together (which isn't often enough)! I guess as a single person, it was a real treat to see the extened family joining in honoring their parents and grandparents. There's a verse in Psalms that reminds us that "God sets the solitary (the loners) in families" and Dave and Vi have been one of several close friends who have opened their hearts and home to singles such as me. May the Lord continue to bless them and lead them into great times ahead!

SURE HOPE....

2006-08-19T15:29:00.000+10:00

Friday we finished a week of VeBS (Very Exciting Bible School) at New Hope church on Mercer Island. We carried on with the pirate theme (drama and us dressed appropriately) with the Bible Theme "Sure Hope" (using a curriculum developed for Southern Cross Kids' Camps in Australia). I think you will enjoy these kids - they really got into the spirit of the moment! I got a lot out of this theme - with all that is happening in the world, the word "hope" seems anything but "sure". By for those who have experienced the love, forgiveness and redemption of God through Jesus, "hope" is indeed sure. As Hebrews 6:19 puts it "We have hope like an anchor, safe and sure." Hope for today, hope for tomorrow, hope in spite of what we see, hear, or fear - based on Him whose Word never fails.

2006-08-14T13:15:00.000+10:00

UPDATE!
For those wondering what has occurred between the last two blog entries a brief summary.
June – I flew across to the US from Melbourne and hit the ground running! Landed in Seattle, then headed to deepest Idaho for a kids’ camp held near Idaho City. Great to have Sue’s new Forrester to go off the beaten track just a little. From there it was back to Seattle, then down to Portland to meet two dear friends Graeme and Angela from Melbourne. We headed to the Oregon coast for four fantastic days with the Hanson family: Doug, Mitzi and Janessa plus cousin Katie. We walked the beach, explored the shops at Cannon Beach, spotted puffins nesting on Haystack Rock, flew kites, ate fab food and played crazy games.

From Cannon Beach we drove in convoy to Boise and a day later headed up to McCall, Idaho to Quaker Hill for the Royal Family Kids’ Camp with Tom and Margaret Tuco, directors extraordinaire!!!!! What a great camp for kids in foster care – it is one of the highlights of our summer each year. It is so good to see what God does in the hearts and lives of these children.

Then it was on to Miracle Mountain in the Grangeville area. This was a really rustic old-time camp setting but we had a tremendous time in God’s presence. Both Sue and I got into Bible costumes and participated in the Bible drama each day. These kids really responded to God’s love, and it was so refreshing to hear one little lad pray his first prayer “Hey God, this is me, Christopher and I am speaking to you. You need to listen and do what I ask you to do….” and he continued asking the Lord to bless Sue and keep us safe. Totally non-churched, he came to experience the reality of a loving Father God.

TIGER LILY….. or Rachael Devore, interned with us this summer for five of our camps. What a great young woman she is! (You can check out her blog at tigerlilyspad)
She is about to enter Northwest College and her dream is to become a medical missionary working with AIDS victims (children) somewhere in Africa. How cool is that?? She was so popular with the kids, and with us! Very easy to travel with and a delight to have on the team! I got to do a bit less up front and worked with the puppets, and audio/visuals more. I enjoyed that immensely. We only did one Rainbow program this summer, but the theme was “Anchor of Hope” with a pirate flavour. A great hit with the kids AND with us. We debuted this theme at the Colfax Nazarene church and pastor and adults all got into it donning pirate costumes and participating in a skit which ran each night. Great to see adults and kids alike responding at altar times too.

As I write this we are preparing to repeat this theme with the kids of New Hope as we drive to Mercer Island each day for a VBS. This time Sue will be in pirate attire – no clown costume and no grease paint! That always makes her happy. We are also working on our pirate riddles and enclose three here (they are endless!) See end of this blog for the answers.

What country do pirates NEVER sail to?

What do pirates like to eat best?

What Bible Story do Pirates like best?

Let me know if and when you read this blog. We are also working on curriculum and programs, and teaching session for our upcoming missions trip back to the Czech Republic. Please do keep us in your prayers.

Answers to pirate riddles: (a) Aaaarrrrrgentina (b) Aaarrrrtichokes (c) Noah and the Aaaarrrrrk.

A Man of Honor

2006-08-05T04:12:00.000+10:00

Today (August 4th) is the birthday of one of my 'heroes'. Sue's dad - DALE CARPENTER - is celebrating his 70th-something birthday. He is a godly example of a Christian man. As a loving husband to Bertha, and dad (to Sue and De Ann and her husband John) he lives his faith daily. And this faith is constantly tested - Dad C (my name for him) is challenged with the effects of progressive MS. His mobility is reliant on a wheelchair, his body is becoming increasingly weakened - but his inner strength remains. James writes "Be patient then until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near." James 5: 7,8. NIV
The farmer can be patient because he sees (by faith) what is coming - a good crop.
We too need to allow patience (God's peace in action) when tests and trials come to us, whether it be bad traffic, frustrations in our workplace or simply in our relationships with others. I know Dale or Dad C would love to physically "Stand firm" again - but he has never wavered in 'standing firm' spiritually and what an example he is to me and to many others. Happy Birthday Dad!

Tuesday, March 28

2006-04-02T14:49:00.000+10:00

"I think Melbourne is the BEST place to live." Carolyn with Yarra River in background. The 72 metallic fish floating in the river represented every nation competing. At night they were amazing - sound and light special effects with projection screens etc. and on the final night, the top of each fish became the launching pad for all the river fireworks - spectacular!

Apologies for the L-O-N-G silence but life has been frantic to say the least. For those in the US, there has been a two week sporting event happening in my home town. The Commonwealth Games brings together those nations that are part of this union of nations who still recognize the British Monarch. That meant that teams, supporters and tourists poured into Melbourne from 71 nations. It was the biggest thing apart from the Olympics and the organization was outstanding.

Sue and myself were involved with Quest – a gathering of people from various churches getting together to go into the city in teams and simply serve others and share the life within them given the opportunity. Teams were trained in balloon sculpturing, clowning, group games, prayer and more. Each day they were scheduled at different live spots throughout the city, and the reports that have come back have been exciting.

Melbourne is a beautiful city at the best of times, but the autumn weather is great. Cool nights, warm sunny days are generally the rule and it is the month for cultural shows, festivals, exhibitions, the Grand Prix and more. The City looked fabulous during the games and the atmosphere was tangible! People smiled more, talked more, and helped more! What is it that takes something like this to bring out the best in us? We went to the track session one night and afterwards started to walk to the train station. We were not alone – I estimated over 20,000 of the 82,000 attending that night headed to the same station. What was amazing is that there was no shoving or pushing, no impatience or grumbling. Once on a train, the noise of people chatting, sharing stories, even singing “Happy Birthday” at midnight for one young traveller, was just so different to normal train travel. Such a change from the daily grind! Shouldn’t we as Christians, be more like this every day – more patient, more gentle, more cheerful, more servant-like? It certainly gave me something to think about.

"Sue was happy to turn into an Aussie yobbo (well, the US weren't competing!) and of course could not be missed! Actually when the stadium filled there were many thousands who were decked out just the same.

Launceston, Tasmania

2006-03-08T17:35:00.000+11:00

We called this “HAYhenge” – just south of Launceston, Tasmania

Kids' Fun Day - St. Helens

2006-03-08T17:28:00.000+11:00

Kids gathering for beach outreach, St. Helen’s

Back in St. Helen’s we helped out at a combined churches kids’ Fun Day held on the St. Helen’s foreshore. Rainbow the Clown was a huge hit (wig firmly anchored by a balloon hat, extra tight!) while Ps. John Denman reinforced the puppet stage with wood and clamps, and kept it upright in strong winds!

MINISTRY to CHILDREN SEMINAR – Melbourne

2006-03-08T17:15:00.000+11:00

Peter Lusk preparing to open MTC 2006

MTC flew us back to Melbourne to speak at the seminar. We would have liked to have been there for both days, but had prior commitments in Tasmania. When I was on staff at Waverley Christian Fellowship (now CityLife Church), I started a seminar or training day for children’s workers and this was the first year that Sue arrived in Australia as the key speaker. In fact she was the ONLY speaker and shared at six sessions during the day. It was a God-ordained thing – the following year she returned and we added electives, bringing in experienced people from other churches and so the conference grew. Six years ago we transferred the conference coordination to Ken and Dorothy Gardner, and three years later it passed to Peter Lusk (Careforce Church) who has done a FANTASTIC job of raising the profile of the seminar, and keeping its uniqueness. What a buzz to mix with people from every denomination and Christian group; to share resources, experiences and to learn from so many gifted and anointed presenters. Sue took a key session, plus a workshop, and I took a workshop. We then headed back to the airport – thank the Lord for His protection as we drove back to St. Helen’s through fog and a multitude of night animals, all deciding to wait for us before crossing the road! We are happy to say that we are NOT responsible for any of the road kill in Tassie to date. And that’s no mean feat!

Binalong Bay

2006-02-22T11:27:00.000+11:00

Wow....Binalong Bay must be the BEST kept secret in Tasmania. Sue and I discovered it long ago and we always look forward to heading down there. We are staying in Dt. Helen's on the east coast and BB is just 10 mins drive away. A crescent of beach and turquoise waters to rival any up north or in Hawaii! And the sand! A glassblower's dream - fine, white and sparkling with silicone. We walked, and to our delight discovered myriads of tiny little shells all along the waveline of almost every type. I picked up a minute Cowry shell about 1/3 the size of the nail on my little finger!

Coming up....Rainbow and Larry on the St. Helen's foreshore for a combined churches outreach. Pray for low winds (to be kind to the wig!) and good crowd control!! Sunday will see us in Church (St. Helen's Christian Fellowship) and Monday in the public and Christian schools before we pack up and head back to Hobart for the annual Ministers' Fellowship International Conference.

2006-02-17T23:16:00.000+11:00

Commonwealth Games. Tonight I learned quite a lot about my home city. Such as: Australia vies with Israel for being the most multicultural nation in the world and Melbourne the most multi-cultural city. Melbourne is getting ready to host sportspeople and visitors from some 71 nations that make up the Commonwealth - a great opportunity to show friendship, helpfulness and care in the name of Christ. So Sue and I have been busy with workshops on balloon sculpturing, clowning and puppetry. Quite challenging for some people: the horror of a popping balloon, the squeaks of bubble twisting, the "dogs" that turn out with lop-sided legs and three ears! But in the midst of it all, balloon hearts that show love, and colorful flowers - they'll be great walking among the crowds at the venues.

More Than Gold

2006-02-15T14:16:00.000+11:00

Sue and I left the car at the long-term park at Launceston airport and flew back to Melbourne for 3+ days to be able to participate in the More Than Gold Seminar hosted by CityLife Church. Key speakers and workshop presenters will train teams in evangelism for outreach at the upcoming Commonwealth Games, and our responsibility will be Clowning and ballooning. Both topics are great for 'walk-about' evangelism and for amusing fidgeting kids in lines (along with their parents!)

Hello from Hobart

2006-02-08T12:12:00.000+11:00

Hello from Hobart!
After balmy breezes and sunny skies we woke yesterday to a light sprinkling of snow on the top of Mt. Wellington – the mountain that provides the backdrop to the beautiful harbour city of Hobart. It didn’t last for long, and tomorrow is promised to be warm and sunny – just a sample of the interesting climate of southern Australia, and a reason why “The Weather” is a main topic of conversation here!

The children’s leaders seminar hosted by City Light Church was enthusiastically received and we appreciated those who drove long distances to be there. Now we are preparing for a family camp north of Hobart.

On the tourist side we have….
• Explored the wharf area and enjoyed seafood at Mure’s
• Looked at some of the many historical buildings
• Loved the waterfront sculptures of the early Antarctic expeditions
• Wondered at the magnificent native woods used in furniture on sale at the Henry Jones building
• Caught a movie at Eastlands
Enjoyed the friendliness of people everywhere

READY TO ROLL

2006-02-01T14:42:00.000+11:00

The last week has been a time for friends, food and and frantic activity at my place. Firstly Rae and Alona arrived from Belarus. Rae to have some leave while attending to business, Alona to take up study for the next three years. It was great to get together. Back to the airport two days later to meet Sue - flying in from sub zero US temps to 40c here in Melbourne! She arrived like the normal, quiet US tourist - NOT! She came through the doors wearing a Seattle Seahawks sweater and cap chanting "Go Seahawks" while (it being Australia Day) we waved our flag and shouted back "Aussie Aussie Aussie." Well - it did provide some comic relief for the crowd waiting the arrivals. We are now writing - packing - planning for our trip to Tassie.