Today was the first day back at college after summer break. Was so excited to be heading back, so excited. Summer been so long, and working been so frustrating ... but learnt a lot so I guess it's not been wasted time.
There are many reasons I was excited to get back. Firstly the people - really good to be in contact with them again, their a great bunch. Then there's that my brain will be challenged again ... was beginning to wonder if it still worked! But I think the main thing is that I'm one step closer to finishing. Not in a bad way, like I'm wishing away the time ... but like I'm beginning the next stage of the journey of learning that God's allowing me to undertake at the moment.
This time last year I was so nervous and fearful. The task seemed so daunting and I felt like I knew nothing. In most respects I still know nothing, but I'm no longer as fearful. God brought me through me first year, and though it was hard, it was totally enjoyable. There were times when I wanted to throw books across the room cause I disagreed so strongly (the worship one comes to mind easily) and there were others when I finally found that there were words to express what I'd been feeling inside. The task is still huge, it will still be a challenge ... but boy, am I excited at engaging in it rather than fearing it. I've changed in the last year, I think for the better for the most part, and I wonder what will happen this year? Who will I be this time next year? How will I have grown and been shaped? These questions are filled with so much potential that I can't help but be excited about what lies ahead. And so with that in mind I think I'll take myself out of the library (aren't I a good student - first day back and already in the library!), and homeward ... contemplating some more and asking God to keep the excitment I feel today alive to progress well through the challenges I'll face this year as I seek to be and to live out who He's made me and what He's called me to.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Soul Surivior ... part 2
Ok, so I know I always say that I'll finish what I start ... but I don't. Started the blog about Soul Survivor and never finished it ... oops.
However, will make more of an effort. Soul Surivor God spoke to me loads about love, about being good enough and not needing to please Him or live up to some kind of perfect standard He had - I wasn't a disappointment, and gave me an extra peace and I guess filling for the leadership stuff He's called me to at the moment in this student pastor role at EM. Took me a wee while to internalise all that, but thats basicaly it in a few words.
However, will make more of an effort. Soul Surivor God spoke to me loads about love, about being good enough and not needing to please Him or live up to some kind of perfect standard He had - I wasn't a disappointment, and gave me an extra peace and I guess filling for the leadership stuff He's called me to at the moment in this student pastor role at EM. Took me a wee while to internalise all that, but thats basicaly it in a few words.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Soul Survivor part 1 ... the quick part!!!
For those who still read this blog, am at Soul Survivor this week. How funny - no real proper showers ... but can get internet!!!
God is so good and has been doing amazing stuff here. For me a lot of time has been spent praying for people in the youth group, but also God has been ministering to me. Especially about leadership and the fact that I don't need to be so scared about messing up. I will, but He's bigger than any mess up I can make and He will be working in me and through me, so it's not about me. He's also been revealing more and more to me that I am not a disappointment to Him ... despite what I think and often feel. For me that has been a real revelation this week and I know that will massively impact what happens in the next wee while for me. It's the last day, and there is so much to take in in terms of all that has happened and what God has said ... but it's not over yet. We still have the rest of the afternoon and tonight ... wonder what God still has in store for us here ...
God is so good and has been doing amazing stuff here. For me a lot of time has been spent praying for people in the youth group, but also God has been ministering to me. Especially about leadership and the fact that I don't need to be so scared about messing up. I will, but He's bigger than any mess up I can make and He will be working in me and through me, so it's not about me. He's also been revealing more and more to me that I am not a disappointment to Him ... despite what I think and often feel. For me that has been a real revelation this week and I know that will massively impact what happens in the next wee while for me. It's the last day, and there is so much to take in in terms of all that has happened and what God has said ... but it's not over yet. We still have the rest of the afternoon and tonight ... wonder what God still has in store for us here ...
Friday, July 06, 2007
Freedom ...
Recently did a Steps to Freedom course with some people (always good to have a spiritual cleanup!), and it really was brilliant. Going to be able to use it with people now as well which is also cool. But been re'reading Captivating by John and Satsi Elderidge
They have a brilliant chapter on healing wounds ... well worth a read and possibly even using in ministry - especially with women.
Been great reading again, especially in relation to ideas they have on women being made in the image of God. I may not agree with it all, and some of it may be quite American etc, but it well worth reading. It's not hugely theological in the way my course books are ... but it is equally as thought provoking.
What kind of Christian am I?
I ask this question not in a condemning way, at least not necessarily, but in a 'need to examine myself and my attitudes again' kind of way. This has been the strangest week.
Last Thursday had our church business meeting and on the way there spotted a young boy sitting in a dangerous place by the side of the road. Mum and I drove past, but as we did I looked into his eyes. The look I saw made me ask to turn the car back around so I could get out and ask if he was ok. Turned out his sister had abandoned him with no money and no phone in a place he didn't know and so now he couldn't find his way home ... to Larkhall! So got him to the bus station only to discover no more buses and then phoned his uncle to arrange us to take him home. Good deed done? Well, yes in some ways, but not because I wanted to do a good deed but because it was the 'natural' thing to do. It was natural to help and care for someone.
Then the terror attempt in Glasgow and my Saturday night was spend with friends praying and talking in different ways. Two of them were meant to be leaving for Romania the next day on a mission and we waited to see how they were going to get to Luton and if in fact they would be able to go at all. When one friend heard she was driving the whole hugeness of what was going on took hold and she just burst into tears. Another night spend caring, not strangers, but my precious friends.
But then contrast that with work this week. My attitude has been one of not wanting to be there, of really wanting a new job ... and so the result? Less caring. In a place where I am known as a Christian working in a Christian shop where had my sunny attitude and compassion gone. Needed to ask God to help me get it back today - and so it's been a much better day ... despite all the burning myself and dropping things.
But what kind of Christian am I really? I know I have not always 'been myself' (what kind of a phrase is that!) the past few months, and I'm tired of it. In general though I think I'm just tired of lots of things. See now once again why time out is needed ... you think I'd learn!
So what kind of Christian am I? Not always the kind I'd like to be, but asking God to make me more like Him. I'm the tired kind, in need of some rest (but doing an SU camp instead - go figure!). But most of all I'm the kind of Christian who knows they are weak. I just pray that more and more in my weakness He becomes more and His strength lives in me more.
Last Thursday had our church business meeting and on the way there spotted a young boy sitting in a dangerous place by the side of the road. Mum and I drove past, but as we did I looked into his eyes. The look I saw made me ask to turn the car back around so I could get out and ask if he was ok. Turned out his sister had abandoned him with no money and no phone in a place he didn't know and so now he couldn't find his way home ... to Larkhall! So got him to the bus station only to discover no more buses and then phoned his uncle to arrange us to take him home. Good deed done? Well, yes in some ways, but not because I wanted to do a good deed but because it was the 'natural' thing to do. It was natural to help and care for someone.
Then the terror attempt in Glasgow and my Saturday night was spend with friends praying and talking in different ways. Two of them were meant to be leaving for Romania the next day on a mission and we waited to see how they were going to get to Luton and if in fact they would be able to go at all. When one friend heard she was driving the whole hugeness of what was going on took hold and she just burst into tears. Another night spend caring, not strangers, but my precious friends.
But then contrast that with work this week. My attitude has been one of not wanting to be there, of really wanting a new job ... and so the result? Less caring. In a place where I am known as a Christian working in a Christian shop where had my sunny attitude and compassion gone. Needed to ask God to help me get it back today - and so it's been a much better day ... despite all the burning myself and dropping things.
But what kind of Christian am I really? I know I have not always 'been myself' (what kind of a phrase is that!) the past few months, and I'm tired of it. In general though I think I'm just tired of lots of things. See now once again why time out is needed ... you think I'd learn!
So what kind of Christian am I? Not always the kind I'd like to be, but asking God to make me more like Him. I'm the tired kind, in need of some rest (but doing an SU camp instead - go figure!). But most of all I'm the kind of Christian who knows they are weak. I just pray that more and more in my weakness He becomes more and His strength lives in me more.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Long long time ...
So it's been a long time since I last 'blogged'. Now, I'm one year into my degree, am becoming more reflective, inquisative, and curious ... but as you can tell not a better speller. This past year has been a time where I have been able to let go of things I'd been holding onto, some without even realising, letting God heal some wounds. It's also been a time where I have been able to grasp onto some new things - experiences, people, places - all of which have helped in shaping me some more. In all of this though I have realised that I've not journalled quite as I should have. This has clearly been evidenced as I've taken some time out to pray and reflect on all the year held. So now I'm back - and ok, this may not be Bebo or myspace - but for me it is my place to share and explore. Let the journalling begin ...
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
I'm back ...
Evonne, think you're the only one that checks this ... but I'll keep it up just for you and me!
Well, I'm back from the USA. Was such an awesome time, and as I get some free minutes in the next couple of days I'll post all my thoughts. Not too tired, but am suffering a little from the jetlag feeling. So glad I had the oppertunity to go though!
Came back to earth with a bang today though ... college started again. this mornings class - faith seeking understanding. Cool, but wordy conceptually for my wee tired brain! Feels cool to re-start again though. Second semesters modules are great titles ... I have the one above, ethics, worship and of couse my continuing encountering the Bible one as well as community and leadership.
The challenge for me this term I think will be time management. I've now taken on a second day a week at Wesley Owen to try and afford driving lessons again. So frustrates me that I can't drive, and means I end up relying on others way more than I want to. Maybe it's related to pride stuff, but think not, just really bugs me. But taking on that extra day means that I will really need to plan and use my other time well. Also means that I'll probably not be able to take anything else on at the moment. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but means I need to definately need to use the word no! Each of the courses is quite big topically as well, so really will need to make the best use of my time to keep up to date, and do the best I can possibly do.
Thinking seriously about giving up Greek. Really not taking it in and really don't have the time to commit to it either at the level I obviously need to in order to understand it. Will talk to Doctor Burrows about it tomorrow proabably, but really struggling with it.
Guess I better go and try and get some decent sleep. Won't do me any favours to yawn my way through ethics tomorrow ... or Greek! Pictures and more info on America will follow, but for now my bed is calling my name!!!
Well, I'm back from the USA. Was such an awesome time, and as I get some free minutes in the next couple of days I'll post all my thoughts. Not too tired, but am suffering a little from the jetlag feeling. So glad I had the oppertunity to go though!
Came back to earth with a bang today though ... college started again. this mornings class - faith seeking understanding. Cool, but wordy conceptually for my wee tired brain! Feels cool to re-start again though. Second semesters modules are great titles ... I have the one above, ethics, worship and of couse my continuing encountering the Bible one as well as community and leadership.
The challenge for me this term I think will be time management. I've now taken on a second day a week at Wesley Owen to try and afford driving lessons again. So frustrates me that I can't drive, and means I end up relying on others way more than I want to. Maybe it's related to pride stuff, but think not, just really bugs me. But taking on that extra day means that I will really need to plan and use my other time well. Also means that I'll probably not be able to take anything else on at the moment. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but means I need to definately need to use the word no! Each of the courses is quite big topically as well, so really will need to make the best use of my time to keep up to date, and do the best I can possibly do.
Thinking seriously about giving up Greek. Really not taking it in and really don't have the time to commit to it either at the level I obviously need to in order to understand it. Will talk to Doctor Burrows about it tomorrow proabably, but really struggling with it.
Guess I better go and try and get some decent sleep. Won't do me any favours to yawn my way through ethics tomorrow ... or Greek! Pictures and more info on America will follow, but for now my bed is calling my name!!!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Schools in Georgia ...
In America it's really unusual for schools to let Christians into them. Well, this week I've been able to go into quite a few which is one of the best things about this trip.
Yesterday I was in the local private school, and is exactly what you expect when you see nice American school on TV. I got to speak to Grade 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9's ... so I was in lots of classes. I'm not allowed to talk to them about Christian things, but I could tell them all about Scotland, and so all the classes were like question and answer sessions. Everyone is so polite and nice here, and were so happy that I'd come to visit them. A couple of the kids from church were in some of the classes, and so they introduced me, which was quite cool.
Today I was in the Christian school talking with all the different ages. With the younger kids I did the kids talk I had done in church the other week. I got a couple of volunteers that had to come to the front and try to peel and eat a banana using only their teeth. Obviously they couldn't do it. Jim McGillivray, you are still the best at it, no-one else has thought to really rip into it!!! Well, after that I tell them they can use their hands too, and suddenly it's so much easier. We then look at a couple of verses in 1 Corinthians 12 about the church being like a body. The kids loved it! After that little thought (it was their chapel time ... was so funny to see many of them come in with Bibles ... that so doesn't ever happen in Scotland), I told them a little about Scotland. Well, as much as I felt I had their attention for ... about 50 young kids all miming actions for playing the bagpipes was both funny and cute. The older group didn't get a thought for the day, we just had another Q+A session, but we did talk for a while about the differences in churches. Again, was a good time.
Then I had a totally different experience of school yesterday. One of the guys in church runs all the after school programmes for the county, which is where kids stay later after school and work on class work ... either rough kids or not to bright ones, that kind of thing, as well as other reasons. Anyways, we arranged with Joey for me to be able to go to an after school class with 8th Graders (15 year olds), and it was like a total demographic and cultural shock. More than 90% of the class were African American, and there was an obviously different culture, much more like what you see when you look at an inner city American school. To get to the school we had to drive through a really rough and deprived area of town, that we never saw any of when we were here in the summer. It was like a whole different world to the one that I had experienced so far in Warm Springs. The same was true today when I went to another after school, though the differences weren't as stark as yesterday.
Yet, it was the thing that I've loved most since being here. I would really like to go back and spend more time with the young folks, it was such a privedge to be with them ... and people don't often say that about them!
When Jesus met with people He was able to see beyond what people saw on the outside, and that's what I thought when I saw those kids. People are so quick to judge and look down on others, but if we take the time to see beyond the external there is potential and beauty present in everyone (can you tell I'm not a Calvanist!). I had such a great time with the young people. They taught me to 'walk it out' and do the 'two step', and then I taught a few of them how to do a little bit of the highland fling. It was a great time, and they had loads of cool questions and were really interested in the differences between our two countries. Spending time in the after schools reminded me of how scared I was when I started doing LSU (Learning Support Unit) work with young people in high schools, either in workshop courses like behaviour management or self-esteem as well as helping with regular school work, but how by the end it had become my favourite. I may only have spent a short time with those young people yesterday, but it was enough for God to remind me of the little flame of passion I have in my heart for young people like them, and schools work like that.
For now I better go and get ready for the girls Bible Study tonight ... but tomorrows another day with more schools and hopefully more after schools ...
Yesterday I was in the local private school, and is exactly what you expect when you see nice American school on TV. I got to speak to Grade 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9's ... so I was in lots of classes. I'm not allowed to talk to them about Christian things, but I could tell them all about Scotland, and so all the classes were like question and answer sessions. Everyone is so polite and nice here, and were so happy that I'd come to visit them. A couple of the kids from church were in some of the classes, and so they introduced me, which was quite cool.
Today I was in the Christian school talking with all the different ages. With the younger kids I did the kids talk I had done in church the other week. I got a couple of volunteers that had to come to the front and try to peel and eat a banana using only their teeth. Obviously they couldn't do it. Jim McGillivray, you are still the best at it, no-one else has thought to really rip into it!!! Well, after that I tell them they can use their hands too, and suddenly it's so much easier. We then look at a couple of verses in 1 Corinthians 12 about the church being like a body. The kids loved it! After that little thought (it was their chapel time ... was so funny to see many of them come in with Bibles ... that so doesn't ever happen in Scotland), I told them a little about Scotland. Well, as much as I felt I had their attention for ... about 50 young kids all miming actions for playing the bagpipes was both funny and cute. The older group didn't get a thought for the day, we just had another Q+A session, but we did talk for a while about the differences in churches. Again, was a good time.
Then I had a totally different experience of school yesterday. One of the guys in church runs all the after school programmes for the county, which is where kids stay later after school and work on class work ... either rough kids or not to bright ones, that kind of thing, as well as other reasons. Anyways, we arranged with Joey for me to be able to go to an after school class with 8th Graders (15 year olds), and it was like a total demographic and cultural shock. More than 90% of the class were African American, and there was an obviously different culture, much more like what you see when you look at an inner city American school. To get to the school we had to drive through a really rough and deprived area of town, that we never saw any of when we were here in the summer. It was like a whole different world to the one that I had experienced so far in Warm Springs. The same was true today when I went to another after school, though the differences weren't as stark as yesterday.
Yet, it was the thing that I've loved most since being here. I would really like to go back and spend more time with the young folks, it was such a privedge to be with them ... and people don't often say that about them!
When Jesus met with people He was able to see beyond what people saw on the outside, and that's what I thought when I saw those kids. People are so quick to judge and look down on others, but if we take the time to see beyond the external there is potential and beauty present in everyone (can you tell I'm not a Calvanist!). I had such a great time with the young people. They taught me to 'walk it out' and do the 'two step', and then I taught a few of them how to do a little bit of the highland fling. It was a great time, and they had loads of cool questions and were really interested in the differences between our two countries. Spending time in the after schools reminded me of how scared I was when I started doing LSU (Learning Support Unit) work with young people in high schools, either in workshop courses like behaviour management or self-esteem as well as helping with regular school work, but how by the end it had become my favourite. I may only have spent a short time with those young people yesterday, but it was enough for God to remind me of the little flame of passion I have in my heart for young people like them, and schools work like that.
For now I better go and get ready for the girls Bible Study tonight ... but tomorrows another day with more schools and hopefully more after schools ...
Seminary ...
Ok, I am so excited!!!
Bob has arranged for me to go to Mercier Baptist Seminary in Atlanta on Thursday. I'm going to sit in on the preaching class and then in an ethics class, and I'll meet with his friend one of the leading experts in Johannine literature so I'm told. Will be awesome!!!
I love Scottish Baptist College, and this school seems to be as small as it is, so will be great to meet people studying for ministry in a different place.
But, as long as I don't love it too much will definately be coming back to continue at SBC!!!
Bob has arranged for me to go to Mercier Baptist Seminary in Atlanta on Thursday. I'm going to sit in on the preaching class and then in an ethics class, and I'll meet with his friend one of the leading experts in Johannine literature so I'm told. Will be awesome!!!
I love Scottish Baptist College, and this school seems to be as small as it is, so will be great to meet people studying for ministry in a different place.
But, as long as I don't love it too much will definately be coming back to continue at SBC!!!
Warm Springs ...
I'm here!!! After a nine hour flight I finally arrived. Bob and Erin met me at the airport, was so so so good to see them. And of course the first thing we did ... go and eat Tex Mex! And the first thing we did when we got back to the new Patterson residence ... have people come over and eat dessert. No, not peach cobbler, but this pastry like thing Bob made. Will maybe attempt it when I come home if I can find some guinea pigs to try it out on!
Sunday was cool here and so busy. At both services I did the readings. We were looking at John 1v1-14 in the lead up to starting the 'Walk Across the Room' evangelism training programme next week. The God Rods that were one of the legacies from the summer performed with the most beautiful signing in it too. The young people had a Bible Study between the two services and Katy the leader of it really did some stuff that tied in with what I'm going to be sharing this week.
Bob and I met with a group of mothers and daughters to talk about baptism and what it means to be a Christian. We don't do that kind of thing, and so I was a little sceptical and thought it would be like bullying them into making decisions ... but I was wrong. Was such a beautiful and special time. The girls had loads of great questions and you could tell they've been thinking about whether they want to become Christians or not.
Sunday night we had the normal youth group Sunday Night Live, where we ate and I did the first session of my Livin' Loud programme. I looked at the life of Rachel Joy Scott, a girl killed in the Columbine High School shootings in 1999 and the kind of life she lived, and then we looked at who Timothy was in the Bible. The key verse for the week is 1 Tim 4v12, telling them not to let anyone look down on them because they're young but to set an example in how they live. To set up the rest of the week we looked at the key words of unimportant, instead, believers, example. Unimportant is pretty self explanitory, instead meant a change of something, one for another, believers was in the church before we even got outside to others and example was what we had to be. The rest of the week focuses in on the examples looking at speech, life, love, faith and purity. After we'd looked at them all, they had to spread out and write their own prayer for the week ahead and what they hoped would happen etc. Was such a good night, and really felt God's presence in it, such an answer to prayer.
Yesterday I was in schools, but at night I had the same youth as Sunday from the church and we went bowling. Was such a laugh! I won came second in my lane in the first game, and then first in a different lane for the second. In reality was just a great team building, fun activity where I could spent time talking and getting to know the young people more in an informal manner before we go on with all the discipleship weekend stuff. Tomorrow I have a session with them on speech, and I think relationships are stronger already because of things like hanging out on Sunday night and last night, so should be a great session.
Sunday was cool here and so busy. At both services I did the readings. We were looking at John 1v1-14 in the lead up to starting the 'Walk Across the Room' evangelism training programme next week. The God Rods that were one of the legacies from the summer performed with the most beautiful signing in it too. The young people had a Bible Study between the two services and Katy the leader of it really did some stuff that tied in with what I'm going to be sharing this week.
Bob and I met with a group of mothers and daughters to talk about baptism and what it means to be a Christian. We don't do that kind of thing, and so I was a little sceptical and thought it would be like bullying them into making decisions ... but I was wrong. Was such a beautiful and special time. The girls had loads of great questions and you could tell they've been thinking about whether they want to become Christians or not.
Sunday night we had the normal youth group Sunday Night Live, where we ate and I did the first session of my Livin' Loud programme. I looked at the life of Rachel Joy Scott, a girl killed in the Columbine High School shootings in 1999 and the kind of life she lived, and then we looked at who Timothy was in the Bible. The key verse for the week is 1 Tim 4v12, telling them not to let anyone look down on them because they're young but to set an example in how they live. To set up the rest of the week we looked at the key words of unimportant, instead, believers, example. Unimportant is pretty self explanitory, instead meant a change of something, one for another, believers was in the church before we even got outside to others and example was what we had to be. The rest of the week focuses in on the examples looking at speech, life, love, faith and purity. After we'd looked at them all, they had to spread out and write their own prayer for the week ahead and what they hoped would happen etc. Was such a good night, and really felt God's presence in it, such an answer to prayer.
Yesterday I was in schools, but at night I had the same youth as Sunday from the church and we went bowling. Was such a laugh! I won came second in my lane in the first game, and then first in a different lane for the second. In reality was just a great team building, fun activity where I could spent time talking and getting to know the young people more in an informal manner before we go on with all the discipleship weekend stuff. Tomorrow I have a session with them on speech, and I think relationships are stronger already because of things like hanging out on Sunday night and last night, so should be a great session.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Flight leaves in T minus 18 hours!!!
Flight leaves in 18 hours ... not that I'm counting and totally excited!!! Me ... excitable ... never!!!
Was up until the early hours this morning finishing off some prep atuff, and have just printed out the last session outline. It's finally here and finally happening. Was talking with Bob the other day and forgot to get his address ... been sent it by millions of folks now, so will definately get into the country.
Been thinking today about the different culture I'm going to. Sure, in some ways it's the same, but in others it's totally different. Really felt that last night as I was preparing stuff on purity. So glad God's Word is timeless and therefore the different culture is irrelevant. At the same time though, will be good to experience trying to teach like this in a whole other way than what I'm more used to.
Suit-case just about packed. Have been putting stuff in and taking it out all week. But the stuff that has stayed in is my schools work clothes. Yahey, they're letting me into schools!!! I have no problem not being able to talk about Jesus in the explicit way I would here, if I can just get in and form some links. I'll gladly tell them about Scotland, and hopefully even in that Jesus will be reflected in me. Who knows, Bob was thinking that some of the kids I meet may even come to some of the stuff going on in the week. That would be brilliant! Not for large numbers, but just because it'll enable relationships to be build and kids to get closer to Jesus ... maybe (please Lord) make a decision for Him!!! Ohhh, it's so cool. What an exciting possibility and such an awesome priviledge.
Really prayed into what I should be doing, and loads of it I really feel is the right stuff God's laid on my heart. I really want God to speak through me and use me, challenging and changing me as much as the young people, so I just pray that the stuff thats of me dyes away, so only He remains. The young folk are great, and I really pray that they encounter God in an even deeper way in what goes on. Man, I always just think, look at what they are now, all the stuff that they're into now and the way that they're drawing close to God ... and then I think, what will they be like in 5 years time.
The really disapppointing thing is that some of them may not be walking with God. I've seen it happen in my friends, in youth groups ... and though I pray against it, that may still be the case here. But at the same time, why can't they be different. Imagine what could happen?! Look at their potential, and then add in God who does things that are immersurably more than we can ask or imagine ... and wow, what a picture ......
And that's why I do what I do. Because I want God to use me, not to get a big head, but to help change people's lives. Not because I can do it, but because I know beyond a shadow of doubt He can!
So, off I go to pack, hopefully relax and sleep if I'm not climbing the walls ... and we'll see what happens ...
Was up until the early hours this morning finishing off some prep atuff, and have just printed out the last session outline. It's finally here and finally happening. Was talking with Bob the other day and forgot to get his address ... been sent it by millions of folks now, so will definately get into the country.
Been thinking today about the different culture I'm going to. Sure, in some ways it's the same, but in others it's totally different. Really felt that last night as I was preparing stuff on purity. So glad God's Word is timeless and therefore the different culture is irrelevant. At the same time though, will be good to experience trying to teach like this in a whole other way than what I'm more used to.
Suit-case just about packed. Have been putting stuff in and taking it out all week. But the stuff that has stayed in is my schools work clothes. Yahey, they're letting me into schools!!! I have no problem not being able to talk about Jesus in the explicit way I would here, if I can just get in and form some links. I'll gladly tell them about Scotland, and hopefully even in that Jesus will be reflected in me. Who knows, Bob was thinking that some of the kids I meet may even come to some of the stuff going on in the week. That would be brilliant! Not for large numbers, but just because it'll enable relationships to be build and kids to get closer to Jesus ... maybe (please Lord) make a decision for Him!!! Ohhh, it's so cool. What an exciting possibility and such an awesome priviledge.
Really prayed into what I should be doing, and loads of it I really feel is the right stuff God's laid on my heart. I really want God to speak through me and use me, challenging and changing me as much as the young people, so I just pray that the stuff thats of me dyes away, so only He remains. The young folk are great, and I really pray that they encounter God in an even deeper way in what goes on. Man, I always just think, look at what they are now, all the stuff that they're into now and the way that they're drawing close to God ... and then I think, what will they be like in 5 years time.
The really disapppointing thing is that some of them may not be walking with God. I've seen it happen in my friends, in youth groups ... and though I pray against it, that may still be the case here. But at the same time, why can't they be different. Imagine what could happen?! Look at their potential, and then add in God who does things that are immersurably more than we can ask or imagine ... and wow, what a picture ......
And that's why I do what I do. Because I want God to use me, not to get a big head, but to help change people's lives. Not because I can do it, but because I know beyond a shadow of doubt He can!
So, off I go to pack, hopefully relax and sleep if I'm not climbing the walls ... and we'll see what happens ...
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
3 days to go!!!
Not that I'm at all excited, but only three days now til I fly back over to Warm Springs. Things really begining to take shape. Was talking to Pastor Bob, Erin and Katie on the phone last night. Everyone seems pretty excited, and the whole thing will be great. Got my schedule through too ... man are they going to work me hard!!! But as they've paid for me to be there really can't complain. And I'd much rather that than sitting around all day.
The schedule is as follows:
Warm Springs Teaching Trip Visit Schedule
Saturday 27th:
Leave Scotland early in the morning.
Fly all day! (Thanks for the book Stewart, will finally get to enjoy it!)
Arrive in Warm Springs in the afternoon.
Hang out and relax with Bob and co.
Sunday 28th:
Early morning service.
Youth Bible Study.
Second morning service.
Youth Discipleship Cafe.
Sunday Night Live (Youth Group at night) - Session 1 of Livin' Loud (1 Tim 4:12)
Monday 29th:
In area schools all day.
Youth activity at night - possibly bowling.
Tuesday 30th:
In area schools all day.
Lunch with Bob at Rotary club.
Girls Bible Study at night.
Wednesday 31st:
In area schools all day.
Church dinner at night.
Youth Bible Study - Session 2 of Livin' Loud (Speech)
Thursday 1st Feb:
Free day ... at the moment
Friday 2nd Feb:
Final prep in morning.
Youth Discipleship Weekend starts - Session 3 of Livin' Loud (Life)
Chill out time.
Sleepover
Saturday 3rd Feb:
Breakfast at church
Youth Session - Session 4 of Livin' Loud (Love)
Fun and games
Youth Session - Session 5 of Livin' Loud (Faith)
Lunch at church
Mission work - social action
Youth Session - Session 6 of Livin' Loud (Purity)
Collapse in a heap!!!
Sunday 4th:
Early morning service / breakfast at church
Youth Session - Session 7 of Livin' Loud (Communion and Commissioning)
Morning Service
Lunch with people
Pack and Leave
Fly all night!
Monday 5th:
Arrive back in the UK
Try not to fall asleep
Go to a meeting related to discipleship stuff
Worship group (?)
Sleep!!!!!!!!!!!
And then it's straight back into college life from the Tuesday!!!
Am so excited about the chance to get into schools!!! We'll see how that all goes. Bob was saying the schools on the Tuesday are Christian, so I may be able to share devotionally and not just about Scotland, but the fact they are letting me in at all is great!
There could be anywhere from 10-25 young people around for the week and the weekend, plus any others that come as a result of hearing about it. That's quite a nice number, and I'm glad the first few days are more relational than teaching. Some of the young folk I'll know a little from the summer, and others not at all, so will be good to get to know them and for them to get to know me. That way when I share what I feel God's led me to, they will hopefully be more open to hear it because we'll have bonded a little.
Also glad that I get to spend some time with just the girls. The Bible Study on Tuesday may help give me some fresh ideas for our girls discipleship group. Bob was telling me last night that he's volunteered his place for the girls to sleep-over in on Saturday night as he has three bathrooms ... so may not get the peace and rest we'd hoped for, but will be able to spend more time hanging out with the girls.
Hopefully will be blogging while I'm away and not just keeping my normal journal, but we'll see how that goes time wise and computer wise. Should be doable though.
Oh, so weird thinking it's just days away now - been months for so long and then whomf, all of a sudden it's here and it's happening. Going to go and carry on with the preparation work for a while just now I think. What a shame that means I have to watch a movie to check content as one of my prep tasks!
The schedule is as follows:
Warm Springs Teaching Trip Visit Schedule
Saturday 27th:
Leave Scotland early in the morning.
Fly all day! (Thanks for the book Stewart, will finally get to enjoy it!)
Arrive in Warm Springs in the afternoon.
Hang out and relax with Bob and co.
Sunday 28th:
Early morning service.
Youth Bible Study.
Second morning service.
Youth Discipleship Cafe.
Sunday Night Live (Youth Group at night) - Session 1 of Livin' Loud (1 Tim 4:12)
Monday 29th:
In area schools all day.
Youth activity at night - possibly bowling.
Tuesday 30th:
In area schools all day.
Lunch with Bob at Rotary club.
Girls Bible Study at night.
Wednesday 31st:
In area schools all day.
Church dinner at night.
Youth Bible Study - Session 2 of Livin' Loud (Speech)
Thursday 1st Feb:
Free day ... at the moment
Friday 2nd Feb:
Final prep in morning.
Youth Discipleship Weekend starts - Session 3 of Livin' Loud (Life)
Chill out time.
Sleepover
Saturday 3rd Feb:
Breakfast at church
Youth Session - Session 4 of Livin' Loud (Love)
Fun and games
Youth Session - Session 5 of Livin' Loud (Faith)
Lunch at church
Mission work - social action
Youth Session - Session 6 of Livin' Loud (Purity)
Collapse in a heap!!!
Sunday 4th:
Early morning service / breakfast at church
Youth Session - Session 7 of Livin' Loud (Communion and Commissioning)
Morning Service
Lunch with people
Pack and Leave
Fly all night!
Monday 5th:
Arrive back in the UK
Try not to fall asleep
Go to a meeting related to discipleship stuff
Worship group (?)
Sleep!!!!!!!!!!!
And then it's straight back into college life from the Tuesday!!!
Am so excited about the chance to get into schools!!! We'll see how that all goes. Bob was saying the schools on the Tuesday are Christian, so I may be able to share devotionally and not just about Scotland, but the fact they are letting me in at all is great!
There could be anywhere from 10-25 young people around for the week and the weekend, plus any others that come as a result of hearing about it. That's quite a nice number, and I'm glad the first few days are more relational than teaching. Some of the young folk I'll know a little from the summer, and others not at all, so will be good to get to know them and for them to get to know me. That way when I share what I feel God's led me to, they will hopefully be more open to hear it because we'll have bonded a little.
Also glad that I get to spend some time with just the girls. The Bible Study on Tuesday may help give me some fresh ideas for our girls discipleship group. Bob was telling me last night that he's volunteered his place for the girls to sleep-over in on Saturday night as he has three bathrooms ... so may not get the peace and rest we'd hoped for, but will be able to spend more time hanging out with the girls.
Hopefully will be blogging while I'm away and not just keeping my normal journal, but we'll see how that goes time wise and computer wise. Should be doable though.
Oh, so weird thinking it's just days away now - been months for so long and then whomf, all of a sudden it's here and it's happening. Going to go and carry on with the preparation work for a while just now I think. What a shame that means I have to watch a movie to check content as one of my prep tasks!
Exam over!!!
Ok, stress levels can go back to normal once more. Biblical Survey exam over. Wasn't as bad as I had thought it would be - lets hope I'm still saying that after it's greaded though!
All in all first semester both flown in and dragged in. Now that my last assignement for now is handed in, I plan on reflecting on the past few months. Think I'll be doing that especially in relation to things I want to impliment for this coming semester.
But for today, it's all over and I can breathe a sigh of relief!
All in all first semester both flown in and dragged in. Now that my last assignement for now is handed in, I plan on reflecting on the past few months. Think I'll be doing that especially in relation to things I want to impliment for this coming semester.
But for today, it's all over and I can breathe a sigh of relief!
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