Wow...
There's not much that can be said. The Philippines trip has been cancelled; the Malawi team leave tomorrow; the Chile team meet up tomorrow; the world is struggling to get back on its feet after the recent chaos; tomorrow is 2005. I don't think I'll manage to get a proper blog off before I leave, because I've got a New Years' BBQ to organise at my house. And I have to pack and drive. I was hoping to say a final few words about Chile, but I think I've probably said all I need to say.
Except: we need you - your prayers are an essential part of our trip. Don't forget us, or the Malawi team!
I was also considering posting a 2005: Predictions type blog, but that may have to wait. Or I might fit it in, we'll see. I've been working on a 2004: Year in Review blog, but it took me hours to get through the first two months, so I'll post what I've got and consider completing it later. So, without further ado...
2004 – A Year In Review
I thought that it would be a good idea to do this for the New Year – give me some more of an idea on what to be thankful for, what to change next year, yadda yadda yadda. Plus it will serve as a great memorial to a fantastic year.
So what I’m doing is going through ALL my blogs of this year, month by month, and summarizing them. Unfortunately, most of the comments will no longer be there, but hey, you only really want to hear about me, right? Hehehe.
JANUARY
Topics discussed:
· The increasing likelihood of Relationships (not for me) within Cutting Edgers. I suppose I was half-right, being that a few Cutting Edgers had/have Relationships with Outsiders. Oh, and Shelley and Yogs, but who saw THAT coming?
· Predicted – and I quote: ”Personally, I hope I'll keep growing on the foundation God's set for me, maybe get a job, maybe go on a mission (next year?), maybe work out what I'm meant to be doing next year, maybe trust God a whole lot more, maybe have less 'down' times, maybe maybe maybe... who knows? Who cares? Bring it on!” Certainly didn’t do too badly with that one!
· Judgement/unfairness with/to Biblical characters
· Grace
· My future career, film-making.
· Self-improvement and identifying my ‘weaknesses’
· My struggles with forming ‘goals’ (ooh, foreshadowing!)
· My struggles with prayer, and the words I use therein!
· The value and risks of exposing oneself to potentially detrimental literature
· God’s omniscience, especially with regard to sin
· Praying for purification/strengthening leading to trials…
· The value of poverty and the problem of prosperity
· !Hero, the new Christian Rock Opera
· Worries about my low energy levels.
· Ecclesiastes
· Blockbuster movies
· Virtue in mankind
Events in my life:
· ‘The Waimate Conspiracy’. A week in the South Island filming a trailer for a film that is being filmed for real this January. Gave me experience and connections, we’ll see how it pans out… And I thought that was out of my comfort zone!
· A very scary, bumpy plane-ride into Wellington Airport.
· Struggling with not getting a Summer job… a lot. And the challenge this presented to my faith.
· Struggling with my parents, especially their reactions to the above struggle.
· Painted our fence (which now clashes with our freshly re-painted house)
· Impact World Tour travels the North Island
· The Oscars approach!
· ‘Poo’ choir with old friends.
· Apparently tried to start the trend of calling Bing ‘Bob’. Didn’t catch on.
· Hung out with Lizzie Dunn at Parachute, had a great time.
· Stayed at Jess’ place in Tauranga… perhaps some more foreshadowing!
· Worked on ‘An Insiders Guide To Happiness’ miniseries.
Events in the life of friends:
· Penny was with Abbey in the US of A. Tried calling them!
· Having good e-mail conversations with Scott – sorry that I’ve been slack this time around, bro, thanks for your e-mail!
· Jeremy blogs. Then stops. Chicken. Then misses the Big Day Out because of food poisoning. *Cough* poetic justice? *cough* :-)
· The 2003/2004 Chile Team leaves New Zealand…
· Matt and Louise marry
· Bing’s friend Cameron accompanies Thida and Bing and I to Parachute.
· Roslyn and her family hosted some lovely Wellingtonians during Parachute.
· Dave Lim has a nightmare.
· Sampat, a boy in India, is ‘adopted’ by 5 male New Zealand students.
Social events:
· New Years! Great times had with Bing, Dave P., Dave O, Nicola, Becs, and the Brown girls! Not to mention the first RISK game of the year!
· Summer Cell Group! That would have been one of the last times I saw Mr. Charlie Turner. I wonder what he’s up to…
· Parachute rocks my socks off. Also, a bit of a turning point in my understanding of ‘worship’ being an everyday not-just-singing thing.
Movies discussed:
· Dogville – loved the film, although it was slightly disturbing.
· Death To Smootchy – a Sky movie treat.
· Oscar nominations
· Master and Commander
· Last Samurai
· The Passion of the Christ
Books discussed:
· Book of Revelations Study Book by Tim LaHaye
· Philip Yancey’s “What’s So Amazing about Grace?”
· Philip Yancey’s “Soul Survivor”
· Rick Warren’s “The Purpose-Driven Life”
· “The Prayer Life” – old book, provided by Abbey’s family.
· Feodor Dostoeyevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”
· “Vernon God Little” (exchanged it!)
Pop-Culture References:
· Scribe: “Uh-uh, I don’t know anybody.”
· Ace of Bass’ other number 1 hit…
· Joan of Arcadia
Thoughts now about then:
· I wasn’t in the best of places, what with having no job, and dealing with my parents. I was trying to be brave during a hard time, I think. But I did grasp – slightly - the blessings that would flow from this month of trial. I was missing Dunedin and the people like crazy. A few mood swings, my writing was a little pretentious. Hehe. It ended pretty happily, after Parachute.
FEBRUARY
Topics discussed:
· Felt called to film-making. Then I later doubt it and think maybe I’m supposed to think it’s my call, until something else pops up. Hmm. Then I felt better about it, and got some great tips from someone ‘in the know’.
· How feeling frustrated about my inability to worship as I want to is an acceptable worship in itself.
· Why being imprison was – but shouldn’t be – an attractive idea.
· A growing assurance that 2004 is going to be a big year (was it?)
· Jacob’s wrestling match
· Justification by faith in the OT
· “Those who are first shall be last”
· God’s Daily Word Ministries (http://www.gdwm.org/)
· Phil Baker’s blog
· Job and the Old Testament; righteousness and salvation
· Balance vs. contrast in faith; Protestantism and Catholicism.
· I said “it’s been a great Summer, despite some troubles for the first part”
· The place of disturbing art in Christian life( e.g. The Passion)
· A sudden interest I had acquired in a Relationship – and what that would mean.
Events in my life:
· Car broke down post-Parachute
· Had ear-pain since Parachute
· Brooke Fraser opens at the David Bowie concert – which rocked! And probably didn’t help the ear-pain.
· Ended up getting enough employment after all.
· Computer breaks down pre-Dunedin
· A website tells me I’ll die at the age of 86.
· I recognize CE’s growing need for prayer and fasting this year.
· I mourn my lack of emotional recognition of my sinfulness, as well as my emotional issues in general (which seem to have been brought under control, to some extent)
· I accept Kirk’s challenge regarding my inward-focus and vow to investigate volunteer work in Dunedin (which I do – and decided I don’t have time for. Thank heavens I did, because I was right!), and ponder the paradox of an outward-focused blog.
· I decide that Christian living should be simple, and theology can often complicate things in a very bad way.
· I fly from Wellington to Dunedin
· I’m excited about the year, but full of fear and doubt about my own role and capabilities. That rings a nasty bell, doesn’t it?!
· I discuss Yancey’s discussion of Tolstoy, and am encouraged about it." The test of observance of Christ's teachings is our consciousness of our failure to obtain an ideal perfection."
· I start to understand that I shouldn’t be this itchy… what’s going on?
· IWT Dunedin training begins.
Events in the life of friends:
· Gus hints that he might start blogging.
· Dave P. hijacks my blog from Chile
· Jessie O’Brien drops out of New Zealand Idol to attend the birth of his child
· Cutting Edgers hook onto Nehemiah’s wall-constructing escapades as a prophecy for CE 2004 – in retrospect, I think it was quite apt!
· IWT gets attacked by bad weather and lightning in Wellington’s Basin Reserve.
· I initiate Michelle into the short-lived PWASQAOTVT club (the “people who are sometimes quiet and other times very talkative” club).
· Jeremy came to IWT with me.
· Michelle begins blogging
· Gus’ family has lunch with his flatmates
· My sister was still blogging
Social events:
· Thida, Katie and Rachel came to visit
· I arrive in Dunedin
· Cutting Edge training/planning/preparation begins
Movies discussed:
· Seabiscuit (didn’t see)
· Twin Peaks: Firewalk with me (didn’t see it all)
· Dirty Pretty Things
· Lost in Translation
· Cold Mountain
· 21 Grams – “a very good movie, and I still think it's best summed up by "better than Mystic River."”
· The Passion of the Christ – Best Actor prediction
Books discussed:
· Dietrich Boenhoffer’s letters from prison
· Selected G.K. Chesterton essays/stories
TV shows discussed:
· Nip/Tuck
· The OC
Pop-Culture References:
· The poster for The Sopranos Season 5.
· Thida comments that I should be the sixth star on ‘Queer Eye’, after she buys the female version of a jacket I buy.
· ‘Gone’ by… er… some Christian Group
Thoughts now about then:
· A much happier month, because I was doing things. And I went back to Dunedin. It had a few things that blogging didn’t do credit to – the Bowie concert, coming back to Dunedin, The Passion… Less personal than the previous month, whether from the challenge to be less introspective or the change in situation.
And that's that. The formatting got a little messed up, but hey. This is Sam, signing off for 2004. May God bless and keep you all; may you seek Him in the New Year more than ever. Keep safe, but not too safe!
Love,
Sam
Two days ‘til New Years; ‘6 days ‘til Chile.
It’s a scorcher up here in Wellington – but as I promised, here I am, blogging away. Nah, I enjoy it. I’m going to be in the sun a whole lot more in a wee bit of time. Speaking (obliquely) of missions, as my last blog said, head on over to the CEmissions blog, there are some important prayer requests we have – especially for the Philippines team. If you haven’t done that, do that now. Don’t keep reading. Stop it.
Now, for the rest of you – and for the few who misguidedly ‘plan’ to go there and pray about it later (hah!) – here’s my blog. I’ve been in Wellington for 6 days now, and I’m having a bit of a day off people. Our 14-person Oceans 12 ‘party’ was a rip-roaring success, although the movie may not have been too great – it was still fun. Everything’s falling into place here, even though my organizing came to a screeching halt once I couldn’t be bothered. It’s funny, actually, I’ve seen (almost) everyone I planned on (two more to go, and that’ll work out, I’m sure) – including some I hadn’t planned to! - , done and bought everything I’ve needed to, seen most of the movies I planned to (more to come), had good times with my family… like this whole Summer, everything just seems to ‘work out’. Praise the Lord for His grace, clearly!
And yet, despite all the evidence before me, I still have my worries and my fears. Even now, when talking about it, I don’t make the logical connection between past/present faithfulness and future faithfulness. I am a little scared about Chile. I am scared about having to do new, crazy things. Heck (Gosh!, as Napoleon Dynamite would say), I’m even concerned that New Years’ Eve will flop. Oh me of little faith. That would be my blog’s title, if I weren’t wary of speaking that over my life.
I have kinda been, like Carmi mentioned on the missions blog, in holiday mode, spiritually-speaking. And yet, I also haven’t. I suppose I’d resolve that paradox by saying that my personal spiritual walk (God and I) has been going pretty well, in fact, getting stronger. And yet my interpersonal spiritual walk (fellowship, intercession, ministry) has been… not nonexistent, but staggered. It was a bit of a wake-up call, seeing her e-mail. But I write all this for documentation’s sake, more than anything.
So far, an excellent Summer. The best that I can remember; that’s not saying too much, but it’s been good. I’ve never liked Summers much, even (especially?) at university. This was always meant to be a Summer of doing new things, and that’s worked well so far. Some things don’t change, though. I’m feeling just as incompatible with my family as ever, although I’m sure almost all of us can understand that feeling. My faith about next year has slipped more into a stage of denial, or rather, self-imposed shortsightedness. Still having some of the same personal struggles as ever. But then again, I’m not feeling as hopeless or bad about these issues as I used to. There’s a confidence and strength in facing them, even if I fall.
I’ll try and write again, before Chile, but with Mr. Hawkes arriving tomorrow afternoon, and things planned here and there, I make no promises this time around. But I won’t say goodbye just yet, in faith that I’ll write again. Once I go, I doubt that this blog will be updated until I return (February 6), unless someone who doesn’t have a blog (like Becs, for example…) want to use this space. Let me know. ‘Til then, keep praying. :-)Two days ‘til New Years; ‘6 days ‘til Chile.
It’s a scorcher up here in Wellington – but as I promised, here I am, blogging away. Nah, I enjoy it. I’m going to be in the sun a whole lot more in a wee bit of time. Speaking (obliquely) of missions, as my last blog said, head on over to the CEmissions blog, there are some important prayer requests we have – especially for the Philippines team. If you haven’t done that, do that now. Don’t keep reading. Stop it.
Now, for the rest of you – and for the few who misguidedly ‘plan’ to go there and pray about it later (hah!) – here’s my blog. I’ve been in Wellington for 6 days now, and I’m having a bit of a day off people. Our 14-person Oceans 12 ‘party’ was a rip-roaring success, although the movie may not have been too great – it was still fun. Everything’s falling into place here, even though my organizing came to a screeching halt once I couldn’t be bothered. It’s funny, actually, I’ve seen (almost) everyone I planned on (two more to go, and that’ll work out, I’m sure) – including some I hadn’t planned to! - , done and bought everything I’ve needed to, seen most of the movies I planned to (more to come), had good times with my family… like this whole Summer, everything just seems to ‘work out’. Praise the Lord for His grace, clearly!
And yet, despite all the evidence before me, I still have my worries and my fears. Even now, when talking about it, I don’t make the logical connection between past/present faithfulness and future faithfulness. I am a little scared about Chile. I am scared about having to do new, crazy things. Heck (Gosh!, as Napoleon Dynamite would say), I’m even concerned that New Years’ Eve will flop. Oh me of little faith. That would be my blog’s title, if I weren’t wary of speaking that over my life.
I have kinda been, like Carmi mentioned on the missions blog, in holiday mode, spiritually-speaking. And yet, I also haven’t. I suppose I’d resolve that paradox by saying that my personal spiritual walk (God and I) has been going pretty well, in fact, getting stronger. And yet my interpersonal spiritual walk (fellowship, intercession, ministry) has been… not nonexistent, but staggered. It was a bit of a wake-up call, seeing her e-mail. But I write all this for documentation’s sake, more than anything.
So far, an excellent Summer. The best that I can remember; that’s not saying too much, but it’s been good. I’ve never liked Summers much, even (especially?) at university. This was always meant to be a Summer of doing new things, and that’s worked well so far. Some things don’t change, though. I’m feeling just as incompatible with my family as ever, although I’m sure almost all of us can understand that feeling. My faith about next year has slipped more into a stage of denial, or rather, self-imposed shortsightedness. Still having some of the same personal struggles as ever. But then again, I’m not feeling as hopeless or bad about these issues as I used to. There’s a confidence and strength in facing them, even if I fall.
I’ll try and write again, before Chile, but with Mr. Hawkes arriving tomorrow afternoon, and things planned here and there, I make no promises this time around. But I won’t say goodbye just yet, in faith that I’ll write again. Once I go, I doubt that this blog will be updated until I return (February 6), unless someone who doesn’t have a blog (like Becs, for example…) want to use this space. Let me know. ‘Til then, keep praying. :-)
P.S. Has anybody found Ekta's supposed blog address yet? Would love to see it!
Prayer requests...
Over on the CE message board. Please - thank you! I intend to blog properly later today, but that had priority.
The First Noel
What on EARTH does that mean, anyways? Not knowing, I faithfully search it out for you, my readers. Apparently, “Noel” is from medieval French, in turn from medieval Latin, meaning “birthday”. Fair call. Guess it’s the old fashioned way of singing “Happy Birthday Dear Jesus!” I’ve noticed recently the theological inaccuracy of many of the carols we sing – but before you stamp me with a ‘Bah Humbug’, I will not say another word against them. Besides, I do like them.
Another Christmas, eh? Far out. Already. That means there are seven days left in 2004; and 10 until we fly away – leave all this to yesterday. Good heavens, that’s soon. Already my thoughts – when I stop to allow myself to see the impending reality of the trip – swing like a sweet chariot between excitement and fear, between feeling unprepared and inadequate to… well, no, I guess I am both of those. Heh.
I have 23 e-mails to reply to, some relatively soon. I dunno if I’ll be able to, so please don’t feel bad if you’re missed out before I leave. I still love you, it’s just that… well, too many people love me. Just kidding. I’ll never say that. Hey, speaking of which, I was at a Christmas party this morning (champagne!), and the Mayor of Wellington was there. I didn’t realize who she was until halfway through our conversation. She was talking about all the flak she got (her staff now open her mail with gloves, she gets obscene phonecalls…) both at work and in her private life.
I should probably say, at this point, that our Mayor has volunteered to perform the first Civil Union in the nation – a point I’m not too keen on. Although I might say that my stance on the CU Bill (Act!) and the Prostitution Reform Act is a lot more shaky of late – not because my beliefs are changing, just my focus and priority. Quite interesting. Makes me question whether I’d make a good politician at all, not knowing where I stand on these points. That’s another thing I’ve been thinking about in the orchards; MP Sam Benton. It’s a thought.
Anyways, the Mayor mentioned something I thought was very interesting, and gave me a bit of a reality check. She was possibly being a little too open, I suppose – champagne! She said that the majority of people in politics – especially the counselors she knew, but probably all throughout politics – were there not because of a sense of social duty. No, she said – get this – they were all there because they had emotionally deprived childhoods, and are seeking their approval from the public (good luck!). She mentioned that two of her opponents for the Mayoral seat were “mad” (as in, actually on medication – her words), and that politicians are basically emotional cripples. Which is interesting on various levels, but it makes me wonder whether these are the kind of people we want representing us! Makes you think…
That’s enough of that, hopefully reporting that won’t get me in trouble.
Oh yes, I’m back in Wellington, in case you missed that. Have seen Kristy and Jeremy and my family members so far, along with “Napoleon Dynamite”- quite a funny movie. Hopefully seeing “The Phantom of the Opera” tomorrow with all those people I just mentioned, that will be amazing! But it still leaves a large list of people (19 others!) to catch up with… here’s hoping nothing interferes with the semi-schedule I’ve made. Oooh, I need to go shopping for Chile, too…
What did I get for Christmas, I hear no-one ask? I won’t mention everything. Interestingly, I am now the owner of the latest edition of Risk – not the LotR one, which is probably good. Unfortunately, that means we can no longer buy it as a flat next year, then have a tournament to find out who keeps it, which is a bit of a shame. Maybe we could do that with the foosball table Jeremy wanted us to get. And I concur. I also got a large (no, Bing, not THAT large) box of fireworks, especially for New Years’ Eve – which narrows our options to “outside”, heh. Any thoughts on where we should go, anyone?
That’s pretty much me. I don’t want to bore anyone by writing stuff I don’t need to, not around Christmas time. I should sum up my thought processes: Chile (fear, excitement), finding a job in Dunedin (fear), Professionals Course (excitement), Dunedin (joy), post-Professionals career-hunting (no emotions registering). Anything else? Oh, thinking about this upcoming week, about friends (absent friends, or soon-to-be), movies… yeah, that about covers it. Oh, and I suppose… girls. *Blog-blush*. Spiritually I’m doing okay – haven’t re-acquired that excellent closeness I had in Hastings at times, but I’m not trying as hard at the moment. I really should keep that up.
Soooo, I won’t leave spouting empty platitudes about “Merry Christmas” – not that there’s anything wrong with saying that! – or anything, but I do care about all of you, and would love to hear from you all! If you’re one of the lucky few to get an e-mail from me about anything, you have an obligation to e-mail those who didn’t. Or something like that. And now I’m going to saunter out the door without another word.
Maybe “prance” would be more appropriate. “Strut” is too manly, especially for a fruit-picker.
Gone.
Oblogatory Sunday post...
'Cos I said I was gonna. I've probably spent too long working on the CE Missions website (check it out!) and e-mailing, but that's cool. I don't have too much to say except THREE WORKING DAYS LEFT! That's possibly the wrong attitude to have, and I'm working on that. Trying to 'rejoice at all to which (I) put (my) hands', as I oughta. I think it's somewhat humo(u)rous that my last day is the 22nd of December - Summer solstice, aka 'The Longest Day'. Darn it! But then, blessed release to Welly via my good friends in Palmy (I should really confirm that). Then some awesome hangin' out time with friends and family (keep those bookings coming in! :-) ) until the fabulous New Years' Eve! Hey, I wonder if we've got any fireworks left over...
What's going on up here, then? Not much... crazy weather, I'll tell you that! It's weird working in the rain, and not altogether pleasant. Thank the Lord that I finally have a working raincoat, though! Hanging out with Sharon some more; and now Wendy. It's interesting to see ol' Cutting Edger's in the real world; helps the transition a little. My Student ID expires in 12 days; uh-oh! Of course, a lot of places never actually check... no, no, must have integrity (darn it). Thank the Lord for Community Services Cards! Hehehe. Counting my blessings, I guess.
Again, been doing a lot of thinking about stuff - seems that a part of me still wants to be involved in film, although I also recognise the value of a law career. Sigh; I'm sure it'll work out somehow. It's funny how my natural search for my place mirrors my spiritual search... not funny 'ha-ha', mind. Speaking of, good service this morning at Hastings Elim - all about 'life' (I honestly didn't know there were 3 different words for it in the Bible!)/Christ and sin/death. Ended with a long story/confession from the Pastor about a vision he had of a sword - basically how he'd used it to defend himself by cutting people down in the past. He was very open about it, and quite broken, which is always powerful. Ended up getting prayer for the same thing - I'm sorry to anyone I have hurt with my words, there's probably a lot of you. Work in Progress.
And now, suddenly, my writer's flow has stopped. That's odd. Guess that means I'm signing off now - I don't think this'll be my last Hastings blog, but you never know. I'll finish with an interesting factoid: Most places around here turn their Christmas house lights off before midnight. Sad but true, as Dave, Sharon, Wendy and I found out last night. We consoled ourselves with midnight chocolate; the perfect comforter.
Well, actually, that's a lie. There's only one Perfect Comforter, but I'm just being picky. Like I do with cherries.
Wasn't I signing off?
Hey gang! 3:33 on a sunny Hawkes' Bay Thursday - my day off, and the second-to-last one of those. That's right, next Thursday I say a grateful, but tired, 'goodbye' to Hastings and Dave's house, and head to Wellington - probably stopping briefly in Palmy to say a 'hello' to Katie and Ruth, those rascally semi-bloggers. That was a long sentence.
Thanks to those who commented on my last blog, and to those 20 e-mailers I have heard from since then. Okay, 5 of those were spam, but I was still impressed. On the other hand, only one was a personalised (i.e. not bulk, not 'business') one (thanks Jeremy! Great to hear from you!), but that's still very very welcome! Glad to hear from Aunty 'Tenacious' D (I was thinking about you and Gail the other day, hoping you'd still read my blog) and Becs (I'm definately gonna pen-in some quality - TOP quality - Sam-time for ya... be in touch!) and Kristy (again with the top-quality Sam-time, yeah?) as well. Again, long sentences galore.
As for RotK EE, well, I'm insanely jealous of all y'all who have seen it already. Dave and Sharon and I had planned to watch it this afternoon, but lo and behold, it's not available to rent anywhere in the Napier/Hastings area. What poor luck. I can wait, though. I still hold out hope that it'll be in the Embassy Theater at some stage that I can see it. And a little relieved; I confess it would be a little hard to watch the non-extended bits again, this soon after seeing it last time! Might end up seeing 'Lemony Snickets' tonight instead, if the others are keen...
So, five more days of work. I'm a little surprised that I am finding it getting harder - not physically, but psychologically. The four post-lunch hours go so slowly... Ah well, you live, you learn. I'm not complaining, I've had some awesome thinking times of late. Some great thoughts especially about Jesus' humanity, and about the reality and necessity of living and walking in the Spirit. The first is largely growing from my reading of Philip Yancey's 'The Jesus I Never Knew', and the latter from a book of Smith Wigglesworth's sermons (natch). But I won't bore you with the details just yet. Also having some good discussions with Dave.
With so little spare time, I'm amazed at how little I actually have to do in it. The internet is quite a priority (obviously quiet times and God-stuff always comes first, but that's a daily thing, not a twice a week thing), and banking and relaxing (reading, playing guitar), but there's not much else. Days off speed by, though. I keep wondering if I'm missing something - I think it's just that I'm forced to organise my time better, so I get the things I need to do done. I'm not buying many Christmas gifts this year, wondering if I'm missing people. I'm also tempted to write more personal e-mails or cards or letters to people, but that would take longer than I have. Maybe after Christmas, hehe.
Been thinking about people a lot - friends, particularly. Next year is going to be very, very different. Not only because of the mass exodus that has happened, not only because of whatever I'm doing (gulp), but there's just going to be a different spirit in the place, for me, anyway. I don't really know what that means for then, but for now it means I'm trying to let go of the Dunedin life as I know it. A bit sad, to say the least. And I'm really looking forward to next year in Dunedin - I keep having to stop myself from wanting to get Chile 'over and done with'!
This next week will go by quite quickly, I'm hoping. And - sadly - the week in Welly probably will too. Sadly because there are a lot of awesome people on my 'to do' list(er... I mean, 'to see') - ah, but Chile will rock too, I bet. It's strange thinking about it - 19 days to go!
Ooh, better go. Sharon just called, and we're supposed to hang out in 5 minutes. Next blog... probably Sunday, maybe Saturday. See you then, love hearing from you (and reading your blogs, natch!)
It's been... one week since my la-ast blog...
And that, my friends, is a true story. Guaranteed. I now have 7 more working days to go - I drive back to blessed Wellington next Thursday, where I will stay until the 1st of January - that's right, I'm spending New Years' Eve in Wellington. Or at least, around Wellingtonians. We may go North-ish, depending... so who's up? I'll send an e-mail around those I know will be in Welly - Dave L., Dave H., Carissa B., Kristy T., Jeremy B., Bing (what's Cameron up to?), The Poyntons (doo, doo-doo do-doo, do-doo do du-du-du-doo)... anyone else around? Dave O'Byrne or Jared Brown? That'll happen eventually, by which time some people will already have plans.
Anyways, I'm getting ahead of myself. That's 18 days away yet. What's been going down? Well, I've already forgotten most of what happened last week! I've done a lot of thinking - as per. Good thoughts, I reckon. Challenging thoughts; thoughts about God, people, me, careers... the usual. 'Angels in America' has finished; great show, that. Perhaps the best last words ever - "Next time, I don't want to be a man. I want to be an octopus, okay?" Hung out with Sharon quite a bit, went swimming at the river again - same spot as with the girls, way back when. Sadness, but happiness.
Oh, my parents came to visit, that was cool. Took us out to dinner at a niiice place, 'Craggy Range'. Very cool. Good to see them, chat etc. Got some good Christmas gift ideas - shopping will be last-minute this year, which is very unlike organised ol' me! Speaking of non-sequiturs, been thinking about film again, actually... short film ideas for next year, plus more long-term. Hesitating about law, but that's probably to be expected.
My movie intake has been a little low of late. Saw ’National Treasure' (or have I mentioned that already?), which was... fun. Saw 'Team America', which I wish I hadn't. It had the odd really funny moment, but it was sick. I was kicking myself grumpily afterwards for watching it. And that's it. Oh, obviously RotK a while back. And hopefully the extended edition on Thursday, at Sharon's.
What else to say, what else to say... strangely, been thinking a lot about evangelism recently (I say 'strangely' because it's always scared the pants off of me, and now I'm getting hungry to do it...) and about the balance between loving God and loving others (I'm quite certain that loving God needs to come first, and loving others literally flows from that. Some people seem to think they work in parallel, but I'm not convinced, yet. On the other hand, I'm never that good with either of the two, so who am I to judge). And about the importance of the power of the Holy Spirit, in everyday life (and by the power, I mean the kind of power that you can actual feel at the time) and especially in evangelism.But in general, in between these often perplexing contemplations, this Summer has already seen a blessed increase in intimacy with my Father. Something I didn't forsee at all. And this is not like a new 'level' in faith, because it seems like a gradual increase, rather than a leap. Hard to describe, but I guess it may also mean that it would be easy to slip back down if, well, y'know. If. As opposed to a level that you can stand tall upon, and seek the next one. Which is probably all meaningless if you're not me - and hey, you're not. Sorry, I know you'd love to be.
But things are going well; not really 'enjoying' work, but that's fine. I'm not disliking it either, I guess. And I'm enjoying being up here, getting along with Dave, etc. Looking forward to Wellington (mainly because it means an end to labour!), that's for sure! Having the odd fear here and there about next year (ooh, quadruple-rhyme); that being Chile, and my 3-month job, and the big post-Profs question-mark. But that's also to be expected.
Better split now (like a rained-on cherry), will hopefully blog within the week; either way, God bless! I'd love an e-mail from a lot of you, by the way... especially those I'd expect to have heard from by now (*cough* Jeremy! *cough*)! Peeeeeeaaaaaaaccceeee... OUT!
Has it been four days already?
Wow. Um... wow. I'm feeling pretty tired, and today was a really long day. But I worked out that I've only got 9 to go! I shouldn't really be blogging, 'cos I feel quite... flat, I suppose. Hasn't been the bestest of days. But... well, my parents are coming to see me tomorrow, and, well, that's the only news I have. Hehe. All right, bless y'all.
A bit of 'humour'... sorry, I'm still tired.
Firstly, while driving down to Wellington I was singing along to the radio (as you do), and wound up accidentally singing "Eye of the Liger". True story. But it will only be funny to the few of you who know what ligers are.
Speaking of singing songs I heard driving down to Wellington, I've recently discovered that Natasha Bedingfield's notorious song "These Words" is in fact stolen. That's right, the talented singer actually lifted the song from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit", where a small creature known as "Gollum" or "Smeagol" sings a joyful ditty about his favourite item of jewellery. Here is the bridge and chorus from that same song, straight from "The Hobbit":
Trying to find My Precious
Trying to bite a hobbit
Don't you go, don't you go, don't you go!
My love, what's 'taters'?
Clever rhymes, see you later!
This ring is our own
Stolen from Deagol
We wants it, we wants it, we wants it, we wants it
There's no other way
To better say
We wants it, we wants it...
Cough. That was, um... yeah. It was funny in my head. I wish I could save this post by actually writing something funny, but I can't. So I'll leave that to the commenters (there's your gauntlet, Gus!)
Spiritual Companions
In a recent series of messages, we considered Elijah as he experienced great victory on Mount Carmel but was then overcome with fear and loneliness. We saw how God provided comfort by first sending an angel and then through the gentle whisper of His presence (1 Kings 19:5-13). But Elijah clearly revealed some long term Spiritual needs which could not be ignored; "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty...{but} I am the only one left" (1 Kings 19:14).
Elijah felt alone in his devotion to God and alone in his ministry. This loneliness was effecting his judgement as well as his ability to persevere under stress. He needed a Spiritual companion who would encourage him and walk by his side. God recognized this need and sent him Elisha; "anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet" (1 Kings 19:16). Elijah was not being replaced; rather, given the many "opportunities" for future discouragement, God provided someone to share the burden, provide encouragement, and be trained for future ministry.
Elisha was in the field plowing with a team of oxen when Elijah first called him to follow. Elisha's response was immediate and decisive, and he was devoted to Elijah for the remainder of his ministry.
1 Kings 19:21 "He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant."
God never intended for us to go into battle alone. While He is always at our side, ready to intervene, His Word also directs us to draw upon the strength of others; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness" (Hebrews 3:13).
Immediately after creating the first man, God said; "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). We were created to be people who need one another; "Two are better than one...if one falls down, his friend can help him up" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Jesus demonstrated this wisdom as He sent messengers to proclaim that the Kingdom of God is near; "the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them TWO BY TWO ahead of Him" (Luke 10:1). Difficult tasks require mutual support and encouragement.
As we travel down God's path, let's listen to His counsel and not walk alone. Let's entrust our lives to our Heavenly Father and seek other believers who will encourage us to remain in His presence and aligned with His perfect will. Let's pray that God would bless us with courage and strength...and also with an abundance of committed Spiritual companions.
Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries
gdwm.org
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Sam here:
At first, today's devotional seemed like a slap in the face. I've just said goodbye to Thida for the Summer, Kristy possibly forever, and Abbey forever (although I will do my darndest to see her again!). But it's still true; that's why I needed to call someone tonight, when I'm home alone in a stormy city. And this just a day after I was marvelling that I haven't been 'down' for a very long time. And yet, this is different. This is reasonable.
Been having a great time with the girls - and that's an understatement. From the early morning RotK with Abbey (we both had tears in our eyes) to the "I BET I COULD eat another whole pizza" this afternoon (I could!), from Thida giving directions while driving (lesson learned: if she says something, do the opposite) to watching 'Along Came Polly' without sound in a place with a hyperactive dog and a place name nobody can pronounce.
And next year is going to be incredible, whatever happens.
Yet... it still hurts to say goodbye. Duh. Even though we ARE all in the 'eternity group' together, it feels like another part of me is shriveling and dying. That's life, I suppose, down here at least. Am wondering if it's wrong to be praying that Kristy finds an awesome job in Wellington and stays here... heh.
Anyways, apart from the obvious sadness, there's so much to be joyful over. For a bit of an 'out there' example, those who read my blog last Summer (which seems like yesterday) will remember my volunteer work on a film in Waimate in early January. Well, although I'm missing the actual filming this January, the director is co-producing a $1m movie in Christchurch next year, and reckons I'd be 'an asset'. Talk about an open door! Don't know if anything will come of it - or if I want it to - but it's still a blessing.
Getting lots of great e-mails so often, bit of a struggle to reply to them. So a big shout-out to Steph, Mel, Lydia, and Guy, not to mention the rest of the Chile team! I'll try and reply to youse (!) all at some stage.
One final thing to mention (I still have something in mind to write at a future date - although that NEVER works out for me, :-) ), my New Years' 'plans' are back to the drawing board, because Kristy just threw me the curve ball of 'Oh, I'm going to be in Wellington then'. Grr. So Welly is still an options, especially if I could get Bing and Becs in too (cos they're all leaving me... I mean, Dunedin).
Ah, writing this has made me feel better. I might go watch the second-to-last 'Angels in America' now. Oh, in case it ain't clear, I'm in Welly at the mo, but driving back to Hastings tomorrow morning, working in the afternoon. 20 days until Christmas.
Oh MAN, I need to buy some gifts! :-)
The adventure continues...
In the vein of Abbey, Emma and Lydia, another blogger on the girls' route from Fiji to Dunedin will add his piece to the puzzle of this holiday road-trip that makes us all jealous of our faces. So the girls have been and gone, and we had an amazing time. Couldn't have been better, I reckon.
Wednesday night - the girls arrived. Dave and I cruised on over to nab the brown beauties after dinner - not to mention Sharon! - and we took them... darn it, where did we go? That's right, Te Mata peak. The Mt. Cargill of Hastings. We looked out over cities, quite nice but very cold. Sharon's comment about her coldest body part - or parts - had us all blushing. We sped off to Countdown - how many times have the girls been here in the last week or so??? - and got icecream and mini-donuts. Mmmm. We ate, chatted, and played the Name Game in our Port-accom. Fun times.
Next morning, we checked blogs - Emma's and Lydia's - and went to town for a nice Subway lunch. We visited the cherry orchard where Dave and I work. Gave our workmates the left-over icecream, showed the girls (minus Sharon) around, picked some cherries. Still not full enough, we went to Rush Munroe's and had some beaaaautiful real ice-cream. Played some mini-golf, went for a swim in the river, had some fish and chips - with some luverly deep-fried moro bars - then back up the peak for the sunset. We hurried to Napier, but missed out on getting into the hot-pools (it was about 9:30pm). So we wandered through town and went to a cafe with pretty bad service. Oh yeah, and on the way back, Dave climbed onto a huge fountain for a dare and got soaked.
The girls visited us at work today, and now they're in Wellington. I'm off there tomorrow night, back on Monday morning - Abbey and I must get that Lord of the Rings date at all costs!
Anyways, I should apologise for the blandness of this blog. It really does no justice to the awesome time we had with the ladies. It was fun, funny, often-times a little... naughty (read Emma's blog for a taste of what goes on when these lasses get together). Guess I'm a little drained emotionally (although thank GOD I get to see them again, at least one more time) and physically (we, er, didn't make our 10pm curfew. Again). But incredibly thankful, and so happy that the girls are having such an awesome time.
Sorry for the lack of blogging, been a little busy. Might whip off another one on... Monday afternoon? Who knows. Got a bit to blog about, I reckon. Maybe. On the other hand, I might be in a sad mood.
Heh, got a few things I need to do, too. I ought to do a bit more with the CE:Missions blog - as in, let people know about it, at least! But there's not going to be any news on that front for another month or so, so that's cool. Time's up, night!