Joy to the World , the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.
Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.
No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.
He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.
Friday 24 December 2010
Friday 17 December 2010
What Do You Got?
A song by Bon Jovi with some very strange grammar, which has been getting quite a bit of airplay on Planet Rock recently. It does, however, make a very true observation of human life. It does not matter who you are, rich, poor, famous, anonymous, or anyone in between, we all need love. We need to love and be loved, we have been programmed that way.
I know some people who have had bad experiences of love may well disagree, but I honestly feel love is what makes the world go round. I am lucky in that I have the love of family and good friends to support me. I also have the love of and for God. Even when earthly love lets us down, God still loves us. As the Bible says God gave his only son, even to death on the cross, so we could have eternal life. We were programed to love God and be loved by him. I know that this is not what the band are singing about, but the point is still true none the less.
Every one needs someone to tell them the truth the song says, and so we do. The truth from God is what we need, and his gentle nudges in the right direction. So what do you got if you aint got love - loneliness. With love - happiness. With God's love - eternal happiness. This does not mean the end of trouble or pain, but the knowledge of spending eternity with God.
Bon Jovi
What Do You Got? lyrics
Everybody wants something, just a little more
We're making a living, and what we're living for
A rich man or a poor man, a pawn or a king
You can live on the street, you can rule the whole world
But it don't mean one damn thing
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got someone, you're afraid to lose
Everybody needs just one, someone... to tell them the truth
Maybe I'm a dreamer, but I still believe
I believe in hope, I believe the change can get us up off our knees
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got love, it's all just keeping score
If you ain't got love, what the hell we doing it for
I don't wanna have to talk about it,
How many songs you gotta sing about it?
How long you gonna live without it?
Why does someone somewhere have to doubt it?
Someday we'll figure it out
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got love, it's all just keeping score
If you ain't got love, what the hell we doing it for
Woahhh, I ain't got, if you ain't got love
Woahhh, What do you got if you ain't got love?
Woahhh, What do you got if you ain't got love?
I know some people who have had bad experiences of love may well disagree, but I honestly feel love is what makes the world go round. I am lucky in that I have the love of family and good friends to support me. I also have the love of and for God. Even when earthly love lets us down, God still loves us. As the Bible says God gave his only son, even to death on the cross, so we could have eternal life. We were programed to love God and be loved by him. I know that this is not what the band are singing about, but the point is still true none the less.
Every one needs someone to tell them the truth the song says, and so we do. The truth from God is what we need, and his gentle nudges in the right direction. So what do you got if you aint got love - loneliness. With love - happiness. With God's love - eternal happiness. This does not mean the end of trouble or pain, but the knowledge of spending eternity with God.
Bon Jovi
What Do You Got? lyrics
Everybody wants something, just a little more
We're making a living, and what we're living for
A rich man or a poor man, a pawn or a king
You can live on the street, you can rule the whole world
But it don't mean one damn thing
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got someone, you're afraid to lose
Everybody needs just one, someone... to tell them the truth
Maybe I'm a dreamer, but I still believe
I believe in hope, I believe the change can get us up off our knees
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got love, it's all just keeping score
If you ain't got love, what the hell we doing it for
I don't wanna have to talk about it,
How many songs you gotta sing about it?
How long you gonna live without it?
Why does someone somewhere have to doubt it?
Someday we'll figure it out
What do you got, if you aint got love?
Whatever you got, it just aint enough
You walk in the road, but you're going nowhere
You're tryin' to find your way home, but there's no one there
Who do you hold, in the dark of night?
You wanna give up, but it's worth the fight
You have all the things, that you've been dreaming of
If you ain't got love, it's all just keeping score
If you ain't got love, what the hell we doing it for
Woahhh, I ain't got, if you ain't got love
Woahhh, What do you got if you ain't got love?
Woahhh, What do you got if you ain't got love?
Saturday 4 December 2010
God Gave Rock 'n' Roll To You
On the premise that God created everything and gives good gifts to his children, then yes God did give rock 'n' roll to everyone. It has often been said, that rock music, and in particular the heavy metal genre, is the devil's music. In the same way that man can take good things and turn them evil, chemical weapons for example, then music can be used for both good and bad messages. In the whole though, I feel that rock music, in it's widest sense, can and is used for the good. You can not single out rock music as being "bad", and not also include genres such as gangster rap. In the main the musicians are just putting over a message, some may be slightly darker, but hey some poetry is very dark.
All people were made in the image of God, that includes followers of rock music. God loves us as much as anybody else, and anyone who says otherwise has a slightly odd take on the Gospels.
The Kiss song of this name, uses rock music as a form of escapism from the grind of an ordinary nine to five job, in a mundane existence. That though is what most of us find as a reality in living. Christians have no need to resort to escapism, as they have a relationship with the living God, who can help us to a better life.
God does give rock 'n' roll to us, but he also gives us so much more, if only we would let him.
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in the soul of everyone
Do you know what you want? You don't know for sure
You don't feel right, you can't find a cure
And you're gettin' less than what you're lookin' for
You don't have money or a fancy car
And you're tired of wishin' on a falling star
You gotta put your faith in a loud guitar
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Gave rock and roll to everyone (oh yeah)
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in the soul of everyone
"Now listen"
If you wanna be a singer, or play guitar
Man, you gotta sweat or you won't get far
Cause it's never too late to work nine-to-five
You can take a stand, or you can compromise
You can work real hard or just fantasize
But you don't start livin' till you realize - "I gotta tell ya!"
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Gave rock and roll to everyone
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in your'e Soul
God gave rock and roll to you (to everyone he gave the song to be sung)
Gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to everyone
God gave rock and roll to you (to everyone he gave the song to be sung)
Gave rock and roll to you, saved rock and roll for everyone
Saved rock and roll
I know life sometimes can get tough! And I know life sometimes can be a drag!
But people, we have been given a gift, we have been given a role
And that roles name is... Rock and Roll!
All people were made in the image of God, that includes followers of rock music. God loves us as much as anybody else, and anyone who says otherwise has a slightly odd take on the Gospels.
The Kiss song of this name, uses rock music as a form of escapism from the grind of an ordinary nine to five job, in a mundane existence. That though is what most of us find as a reality in living. Christians have no need to resort to escapism, as they have a relationship with the living God, who can help us to a better life.
God does give rock 'n' roll to us, but he also gives us so much more, if only we would let him.
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in the soul of everyone
Do you know what you want? You don't know for sure
You don't feel right, you can't find a cure
And you're gettin' less than what you're lookin' for
You don't have money or a fancy car
And you're tired of wishin' on a falling star
You gotta put your faith in a loud guitar
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Gave rock and roll to everyone (oh yeah)
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in the soul of everyone
"Now listen"
If you wanna be a singer, or play guitar
Man, you gotta sweat or you won't get far
Cause it's never too late to work nine-to-five
You can take a stand, or you can compromise
You can work real hard or just fantasize
But you don't start livin' till you realize - "I gotta tell ya!"
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Gave rock and roll to everyone
God gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to you
Put it in your'e Soul
God gave rock and roll to you (to everyone he gave the song to be sung)
Gave rock and roll to you, gave rock and roll to everyone
God gave rock and roll to you (to everyone he gave the song to be sung)
Gave rock and roll to you, saved rock and roll for everyone
Saved rock and roll
I know life sometimes can get tough! And I know life sometimes can be a drag!
But people, we have been given a gift, we have been given a role
And that roles name is... Rock and Roll!
Monday 22 November 2010
Tears Of The Saints
There are many prodigal sons
On our city streets they run
Searching for shelter
There are homes broken down
People’s hopes have fallen to the ground
From failures
This is an emergency!
There are tears from the saints
For the lost and unsaved
We’re crying for them come back home
We’re crying for them come back home
And all your children will stretch out their hands
And pick up the crippled man
Father, we will lead them home
Father, we will lead them home
There are schools full of hatred
Even churches have forsaken
Love and mercy
May we see this generation
In it’s state of desperation
For Your glory
This is an emergency!
Sinner, reach out your hands!
Children in Christ you stand!
Sinner, reach out your hands!
Children in Christ you stand!
And all Your children will stretch out their hands
And pick up the crippled man
Father, we will lead them home
Father, we will lead them home
Words & Music by Leeland Dayton Mooring and Jack Anthony Mooring / © 2006 Meaux Mercy (BMI) / Meaux Jeaux (SESAC)
Behind the Song:
Leeland Mooring says it was a Sunday afternoon during a quiet devotional time that he sensed what he calls a presence of God. “I was playing piano, just worshiping, and I asked in prayer, ‘God, just give me your heart for the lost.’” It was a hope to feel the longing God feels for people struggling to find their way. “And then I started crying—it was as if God gave me a little glimpse of his heart,” Leeland continues. “‘Tears of the Saints’ came out, and it’s about how for every person who is out there lost there is probably about five people praying for them.” More, the track illuminates the vision the band has for its ministry. “We want to see kids saved,” the songwriter affirms. “What’s awesome about this song live, is how it touches people,” bassist Jake Holtz adds. “The Lord is just blessing people. You can see change coming across their faces. It’s nothing we’re doing. God’s just working through us with this song.”
Monday 18 October 2010
Unforgiven
This Metallica song has been in and out of my head for a few years now. From what I can gather, the song charts the memories of an old man, who has regretted being controlled as a child, and conforming as a young man/adult. I suppose to a certain extent, we all try to please others, and sometimes do not show what we really think or know. I know that I have been guilty of this. We do not want to offend, we want to please.
Those who exert unhealthy control or influence over the lives of others, also are in danger of ruining their own lives as well. They will probably be unforgiven by their victims, even though God teaches us to forgive. Forgiving a tormentor can be hard,and maybe humanly impossible. You do read stories though of people who have forgiven some pretty horrendous things that have been done to them. At the end of the day though, it is God who has the power to forgive, and He will forgive anyone who truly turns to Him. This may often go against our perceived sense of fair play, but God is God and we are not.
There is no reason why anyone should remain unforgiven, we all have the chance to enter into a loving relationship with our saving heavenly Father.
This does not take away though, the fact that this is a cracking good song!
New blood joins this earth
And quickly he's subdued
Through constant pained disgrace
The young boy learns their rules
With time the child draws in
This whipping boy done wrong
Deprived of all his thoughts
The young man struggles on and on he's known
A vow unto his own
That never from this day
His will they'll take away
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never free
Never me
So I dub thee unforgiven
They dedicate their lives
To running all of his
He tries to please them all
This bitter man he is
Throughout his life the same
He's battled constantly
This fight he cannot win
A tired man they see no longer cares
The old man then prepares
To die regretfully
That old man here is me
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never free
Never me
So I dub thee unforgiven
You labeled me
I'll label you
So I dub thee unforgiven
Those who exert unhealthy control or influence over the lives of others, also are in danger of ruining their own lives as well. They will probably be unforgiven by their victims, even though God teaches us to forgive. Forgiving a tormentor can be hard,and maybe humanly impossible. You do read stories though of people who have forgiven some pretty horrendous things that have been done to them. At the end of the day though, it is God who has the power to forgive, and He will forgive anyone who truly turns to Him. This may often go against our perceived sense of fair play, but God is God and we are not.
There is no reason why anyone should remain unforgiven, we all have the chance to enter into a loving relationship with our saving heavenly Father.
This does not take away though, the fact that this is a cracking good song!
New blood joins this earth
And quickly he's subdued
Through constant pained disgrace
The young boy learns their rules
With time the child draws in
This whipping boy done wrong
Deprived of all his thoughts
The young man struggles on and on he's known
A vow unto his own
That never from this day
His will they'll take away
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never free
Never me
So I dub thee unforgiven
They dedicate their lives
To running all of his
He tries to please them all
This bitter man he is
Throughout his life the same
He's battled constantly
This fight he cannot win
A tired man they see no longer cares
The old man then prepares
To die regretfully
That old man here is me
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never be
Never see
Won't see what might have been
What I've felt
What I've known
Never shined through in what I've shown
Never free
Never me
So I dub thee unforgiven
You labeled me
I'll label you
So I dub thee unforgiven
Tuesday 5 October 2010
Brothers In Arms
This is the title track from the album by Dire Straits. The songs has been going around my head for a few months now. There is no "commentary" on the song that I wish to develop this time. The song,and the album, were however instrumental in helping me through a very hard time in April 1986. I think the reason for the song now being in my head, is the fact that I am now nearly older than my Dad was when he died in that month.
The whole album just seemed to me at the time to fit my mood. This song spoke to me as at the time I felt that I had brothers in arms. One was the person of Jesus Christ, as my faith was strengthened not tested in this difficult period. The other was a very good friend, who was there for me at the time. We shared a lot of time together whilst growing up, some good, some bad, and some ugly! Times change, people change, the bond is still there, maybe not as strong as it once was, but I don't think it will ever be totally broken.
This song goes out to my "brother" in arms.
These mist covered mountains
Are a home now for me
But my home is the lowlands
And always will be
Some day you'll return to
Your valleys and your farms
And you'll no longer burn
To be brothers in arms
Through these fields of destruction
Baptisms of fire
I've witnessed your suffering
As the battles raged higher
And though we were hurt so bad
In the fear and alarm
You did not desert me
My brothers in arms
There's so many different worlds
So many different suns
And we have just one world
But we live in different ones
Now the sun's gone to hell
And the moon's riding high
Let me bid you farewell
Every man has to die
But it's written in the starlight
And every line on your palm
We're fools to make war
On our brothers in arms
The whole album just seemed to me at the time to fit my mood. This song spoke to me as at the time I felt that I had brothers in arms. One was the person of Jesus Christ, as my faith was strengthened not tested in this difficult period. The other was a very good friend, who was there for me at the time. We shared a lot of time together whilst growing up, some good, some bad, and some ugly! Times change, people change, the bond is still there, maybe not as strong as it once was, but I don't think it will ever be totally broken.
This song goes out to my "brother" in arms.
These mist covered mountains
Are a home now for me
But my home is the lowlands
And always will be
Some day you'll return to
Your valleys and your farms
And you'll no longer burn
To be brothers in arms
Through these fields of destruction
Baptisms of fire
I've witnessed your suffering
As the battles raged higher
And though we were hurt so bad
In the fear and alarm
You did not desert me
My brothers in arms
There's so many different worlds
So many different suns
And we have just one world
But we live in different ones
Now the sun's gone to hell
And the moon's riding high
Let me bid you farewell
Every man has to die
But it's written in the starlight
And every line on your palm
We're fools to make war
On our brothers in arms
Saturday 28 August 2010
Snowdonia (IV)
There is already a link on this blog to the Centre For Alternative Technology, so full information on that can be found there. Had yet another enjoyable and informative visit there.
Meirion Mill is now a retail outlet selling in the main lambswool products, plus the usual touristy stuff. It is reasonably priced and worth a visit.
On our way home we went via Wrexham to visit some friends. On route we called in at Rhug Farm, mainly to use thge toilets, but found a very good farm shop. The strawberry ice lollies contained pieces of fruit. They also have a herd of bison in a field, the young looked really cute.
Our final stop was at Erddig, an National Trust run house and gardens just outside Wrexham. It is somewhere I have been meaning to go for some years, but this was the first time. The house displays both "upstairs" and "downstairs" and has loads to see. We were short for time, so a repeat longer visit is deinately in the offing.
Links:
www.meirionmill.co.uk
www.rhug.co.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Meirion Mill is now a retail outlet selling in the main lambswool products, plus the usual touristy stuff. It is reasonably priced and worth a visit.
On our way home we went via Wrexham to visit some friends. On route we called in at Rhug Farm, mainly to use thge toilets, but found a very good farm shop. The strawberry ice lollies contained pieces of fruit. They also have a herd of bison in a field, the young looked really cute.
Our final stop was at Erddig, an National Trust run house and gardens just outside Wrexham. It is somewhere I have been meaning to go for some years, but this was the first time. The house displays both "upstairs" and "downstairs" and has loads to see. We were short for time, so a repeat longer visit is deinately in the offing.
Links:
www.meirionmill.co.uk
www.rhug.co.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Friday 27 August 2010
Snowdonia (III)
Those that know me, know that three of my leisure pursuits are country drives, football, and hill walking. I managed to find time to enulge in all three whilst away.
After visiting Criccieth Castle, and before dropping back down to Barmouth, I managed to detour onto the Llyn Peninsular for a scenic drive. Well it would have been if the clouds were not down below the hills! I enjoyed it anyway, but to quote my eldest son "misty, misty, boring, misty!"
The football was an Welsh Alliance match between Barmouth & Dyffren United and Llanwrst United. It ended all square at one all. Not a pretty game by any stretch of the imagination, but the scenery was.
We took a family walk up the mountain opposite the guest house to find Blue Lake. This is an old quarry lake, reached via a small cave. It is a bowl like area surrounded on all sides by steep cliffs. A very quiet and awe inspiring place.
The other walk I did, whilst the others were relaxing on Barmouth beach. From the town centre there are paths straight up the mountains above, which go onto a range that runs for twenty or so miles north. The first area of land given to the National Trust is one of those smaller hills. A half hour walk on will take you to Panorama Hill. This is my favourite spot in the country, and I go there as often as I can. The views are out to sea, or up the Mawddach and aover to Cadair Idris.
After visiting Criccieth Castle, and before dropping back down to Barmouth, I managed to detour onto the Llyn Peninsular for a scenic drive. Well it would have been if the clouds were not down below the hills! I enjoyed it anyway, but to quote my eldest son "misty, misty, boring, misty!"
The football was an Welsh Alliance match between Barmouth & Dyffren United and Llanwrst United. It ended all square at one all. Not a pretty game by any stretch of the imagination, but the scenery was.
We took a family walk up the mountain opposite the guest house to find Blue Lake. This is an old quarry lake, reached via a small cave. It is a bowl like area surrounded on all sides by steep cliffs. A very quiet and awe inspiring place.
The other walk I did, whilst the others were relaxing on Barmouth beach. From the town centre there are paths straight up the mountains above, which go onto a range that runs for twenty or so miles north. The first area of land given to the National Trust is one of those smaller hills. A half hour walk on will take you to Panorama Hill. This is my favourite spot in the country, and I go there as often as I can. The views are out to sea, or up the Mawddach and aover to Cadair Idris.
Snowdonia (II)
There are a few things that always spring to mind when you talk about Wales and visits, and I do not mean the rain!! Castles and little trains, we visited two of each.
The Talyllyn Railway runs from Towyn on the coast to Nant Gwernol up in the mountains. It is a good example of a preserved working line, which used to carry slate from the mines down to the coast for shipping. A little known fact about this railway, is the the author of the Thomas The Tank Engine stories, was a frequent visitor, and based some of his mountain railway stories on the line, and used some of their engines as the models for his.
The Fairbourne Railway again dates from the 19th century, but this one was built to carry bricks to the new development of Fairbourne, from the mainline down the stretch of beach that was having new houses constructed by it. I personally did not enjoy this one as much, but the boys loved it, so that's the main point I suppose.
Both Harlech Castle and Criccieth Castle are awesome buildings. Both were built or strengthened by the English to repress the Welsh. Both are imposing sights to see as you aproach them, they both sit on top of rocky out crops. Harlech was built on the coast, but the sea is now a few miles away! You only really appreciate this, when you look down from the top, and see all the flat land around it.
Links:
www.talyllyn.co.uk
www.fairbournerailway.com
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
The Talyllyn Railway runs from Towyn on the coast to Nant Gwernol up in the mountains. It is a good example of a preserved working line, which used to carry slate from the mines down to the coast for shipping. A little known fact about this railway, is the the author of the Thomas The Tank Engine stories, was a frequent visitor, and based some of his mountain railway stories on the line, and used some of their engines as the models for his.
The Fairbourne Railway again dates from the 19th century, but this one was built to carry bricks to the new development of Fairbourne, from the mainline down the stretch of beach that was having new houses constructed by it. I personally did not enjoy this one as much, but the boys loved it, so that's the main point I suppose.
Both Harlech Castle and Criccieth Castle are awesome buildings. Both were built or strengthened by the English to repress the Welsh. Both are imposing sights to see as you aproach them, they both sit on top of rocky out crops. Harlech was built on the coast, but the sea is now a few miles away! You only really appreciate this, when you look down from the top, and see all the flat land around it.
Links:
www.talyllyn.co.uk
www.fairbournerailway.com
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
Thursday 26 August 2010
Snowdonia (I)
As a family we had a very enjoyable week earlier this month. We stayed at the Einion House, a guesthouse in the small village of Friog, which is on the south side of the Mawddach estuary and at the edge of the Cadair Idris range of mountains. The next few posts will summarise where we visited, in case anyone is interested.
On the way up we called in at Llywernog Silver-Lead Mine, which is just off the A44 near to Aberystwyth. This mine has been restored over the years, and is a good example of an industry in mid Wales which had it's hey day between 1850 and 1870.
Whilst then driving up the coast, we came across the Dyfi Osprey Project at the Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve. This site is run by the local wildlife trust. A pair of ospreys have made a nest there this year, but did not lay any eggs. There is hope that they will breed next year. Camera footage of the birds was avaialbe as well as binoculars trained on the nest.
Corris Craft Centre is a what it says really, but worth a call in. Crafts include wooden toys, leather, candles etc. It is also the home to an underground tour of some caves, based on the King Arthur legend.
A lot of the time we spent over in Barmouth, which is a town we love. We managed to get onto the beach every day, and paddled or swam most days. One day was even warm enough for me to venture in and have a proper swim.
Links:
www.einionhouse.co.uk
www.silverminetours.co.uk
www.wildlifetrustswales.org
On the way up we called in at Llywernog Silver-Lead Mine, which is just off the A44 near to Aberystwyth. This mine has been restored over the years, and is a good example of an industry in mid Wales which had it's hey day between 1850 and 1870.
Whilst then driving up the coast, we came across the Dyfi Osprey Project at the Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve. This site is run by the local wildlife trust. A pair of ospreys have made a nest there this year, but did not lay any eggs. There is hope that they will breed next year. Camera footage of the birds was avaialbe as well as binoculars trained on the nest.
Corris Craft Centre is a what it says really, but worth a call in. Crafts include wooden toys, leather, candles etc. It is also the home to an underground tour of some caves, based on the King Arthur legend.
A lot of the time we spent over in Barmouth, which is a town we love. We managed to get onto the beach every day, and paddled or swam most days. One day was even warm enough for me to venture in and have a proper swim.
Links:
www.einionhouse.co.uk
www.silverminetours.co.uk
www.wildlifetrustswales.org
Saturday 24 July 2010
Mr. Roboto
This song is from the rather odd concept album, Kilroy Was Here. Written by Dennis de Young, it is based in a time in the future, where robots do most jobs, and rock music is banned. Kilroy is a rocker, who "hides" inside a robot...told you it was strange!
On face value there does not appear to be much to this song, outside of it's setting in the album. There are though, in my opinion, some truths hidden in there.
We often find that we need somewhere to hide to keep ourselves alive, be that literally as in running away, or putting up defences around ourselves to hide the real person inside. In the same way, we often wear masks to conceal our true identity, well I do anyway!
We are often also so consumed by modern technology, that we do not interact with the real world. We have FaceBook friends for example, often numbering hundreds, often who we only have limited real knowledge of, and a total lack of real face to face conversations with real friends of substance.
In truth our real identity is to found through a relationship with Jesus Christ. In my opinion, it is only by knowing Jesus, that we have the confidence to deal with the real issues. We may not get it right all the time, but life is meant to be an adventurous journey. Jesus is our guide on the way, he allows us to make detours, but then welcomes us back and shows the way towards the completion. Real life should not mean hiding behind masks.
Mr. Roboto lyrics
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Mata ahoo Hima de
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Himitsu wo Shiri tai
You're wondering who I am
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
Machine or mannequin
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
With parts made in Japan
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
I am the modren man
I've got a secret, I've been hiding under my skin
My heart is human, my blood is boiling
My brain I.B.M., so if you see me
Acting strangely, don't be surprised
I'm just a man who needed someone
And somewhere to hide
To keep me alive, just keep me alive
Somewhere to hide to keep me alive
I'm not a robot without emotions
I'm not what you see
I've come to help you
With your problems, so we can be free
I'm not a hero, I'm not a saviour
Forget what you know
I'm just a man whose circumstances
Went beyond his control
Beyond my control, we all need control
I need control, we all need control
I am the modren man
(Secret, secret I've got a secret)
Who hides behind a mask
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
So no one else can see
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
My true identity
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo, Domo
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo, Domo
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Thank you very much, Mr. Roboto
For doing the jobs that nobody wants to
And thank you very much, Mr. Roboto
For helping me escape
Just when I needed to
Thank you, thank you, thank you
I want to thank you
Please, thank you, oh
The problem's plain to see
Too much technology
Machines to save our lives
Machines, de-humanize
The time has come at last
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
To throw away this mask
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
Now everyone can see
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
My true identity, I'm Kilroy, Kilroy, Kilroy, Kilroy
The clip below is the original video for the song.
On face value there does not appear to be much to this song, outside of it's setting in the album. There are though, in my opinion, some truths hidden in there.
We often find that we need somewhere to hide to keep ourselves alive, be that literally as in running away, or putting up defences around ourselves to hide the real person inside. In the same way, we often wear masks to conceal our true identity, well I do anyway!
We are often also so consumed by modern technology, that we do not interact with the real world. We have FaceBook friends for example, often numbering hundreds, often who we only have limited real knowledge of, and a total lack of real face to face conversations with real friends of substance.
In truth our real identity is to found through a relationship with Jesus Christ. In my opinion, it is only by knowing Jesus, that we have the confidence to deal with the real issues. We may not get it right all the time, but life is meant to be an adventurous journey. Jesus is our guide on the way, he allows us to make detours, but then welcomes us back and shows the way towards the completion. Real life should not mean hiding behind masks.
Mr. Roboto lyrics
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Mata ahoo Hima de
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Himitsu wo Shiri tai
You're wondering who I am
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
Machine or mannequin
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
With parts made in Japan
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
I am the modren man
I've got a secret, I've been hiding under my skin
My heart is human, my blood is boiling
My brain I.B.M., so if you see me
Acting strangely, don't be surprised
I'm just a man who needed someone
And somewhere to hide
To keep me alive, just keep me alive
Somewhere to hide to keep me alive
I'm not a robot without emotions
I'm not what you see
I've come to help you
With your problems, so we can be free
I'm not a hero, I'm not a saviour
Forget what you know
I'm just a man whose circumstances
Went beyond his control
Beyond my control, we all need control
I need control, we all need control
I am the modren man
(Secret, secret I've got a secret)
Who hides behind a mask
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
So no one else can see
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
My true identity
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo, Domo
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo, Domo
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Domo Arigato, Mr. Roboto
Thank you very much, Mr. Roboto
For doing the jobs that nobody wants to
And thank you very much, Mr. Roboto
For helping me escape
Just when I needed to
Thank you, thank you, thank you
I want to thank you
Please, thank you, oh
The problem's plain to see
Too much technology
Machines to save our lives
Machines, de-humanize
The time has come at last
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
To throw away this mask
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
Now everyone can see
(Secret, secret, I've got a secret)
My true identity, I'm Kilroy, Kilroy, Kilroy, Kilroy
The clip below is the original video for the song.
Sunday 27 June 2010
You're Beautiful
I see Your face in every sunrise
The colors of the morning are inside Your eyes
The world awakens in the light of the day
I look up to the sky and say
You're beautiful
I see Your power in the moonlit night
Where planets are in motion and galaxies are bright
We are amazed in the light of the stars
It's all proclaiming who You are
You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see You there hanging on a tree
You bled and then You died and then You rose again for me
Now You are sitting on Your heavenly throne
Soon we will be coming home
You're beautiful, You're beautiful
When we arrive at eternity's shore
Where death is just a memory and tears are no more
We'll enter in as the wedding bells ring
Your bride will come together and we'll sing
You're beautiful (x2)
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see Your face,
I see Your face
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
The colors of the morning are inside Your eyes
The world awakens in the light of the day
I look up to the sky and say
You're beautiful
I see Your power in the moonlit night
Where planets are in motion and galaxies are bright
We are amazed in the light of the stars
It's all proclaiming who You are
You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see You there hanging on a tree
You bled and then You died and then You rose again for me
Now You are sitting on Your heavenly throne
Soon we will be coming home
You're beautiful, You're beautiful
When we arrive at eternity's shore
Where death is just a memory and tears are no more
We'll enter in as the wedding bells ring
Your bride will come together and we'll sing
You're beautiful (x2)
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
I see Your face,
I see Your face
I see Your face,
You're beautiful, You're beautiful, You're beautiful
Sunday 13 June 2010
Proud To Be Welsh
This is an awesome joke, which I have unashamedly nicked from a post by Ziggy on the PRATS forum. By the way I am English, but married a Welsh girl.
After having dug to a depth of 10 feet last year, Irish scientists found traces of copper wire dating back 100 years and came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a telephone network more than 100 years ago.
Not to be outdone by the Irish, in the weeks that followed, an English archaeologist dug to a depth of 20 feet, and shortly after, a story published read:-
"English archaeologists, finding traces of 130-year-old copper wire, have concluded that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech telecommunications network 30 years earlier than the Irish".
One week later, the South Wales Echo reported the following:-
"After digging as deep as 30 feet in the back garden of his house in the Rhondda, Dai Williams, a self-taught archaeologist, reported that he found absolutely f**k all.
Dai has therefore concluded that 130 years ago, Wales had already gone wireless."
Makes a man proud to be Welsh!
After having dug to a depth of 10 feet last year, Irish scientists found traces of copper wire dating back 100 years and came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a telephone network more than 100 years ago.
Not to be outdone by the Irish, in the weeks that followed, an English archaeologist dug to a depth of 20 feet, and shortly after, a story published read:-
"English archaeologists, finding traces of 130-year-old copper wire, have concluded that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech telecommunications network 30 years earlier than the Irish".
One week later, the South Wales Echo reported the following:-
"After digging as deep as 30 feet in the back garden of his house in the Rhondda, Dai Williams, a self-taught archaeologist, reported that he found absolutely f**k all.
Dai has therefore concluded that 130 years ago, Wales had already gone wireless."
Makes a man proud to be Welsh!
Friday 11 June 2010
Planet Rock Connection
Planet Rock, the UK's home of Classic Rock, has a quiz type thing in their morning show. Basically, a listener sends in a list of eight songs which are connected by a theme, with one being an odd one out. The remaining listeners have to email or ring in with the right connection, and odd one out.
Well today's connection had been sent in by your's truly. It was introduced as a welcome return to the groaners, ie you will groan when you here the answers! The ones submitted were as below. They altered two of them, Black Sabbath was replaced by U2 Sunday bloody Sunday, and Styx were replaced by Bruce Springsteen's the river.
The connection was rivers in the UK, with the odd one out mentioning a river in the title.
(order sent in, not order played)
Queen - Seven seas of rye (Severn - England/Wales)
Peter Frampton - Show me the way (Wey - England)
Van Halen - Why can't this be love (Wye - England/Wales)
Black Sabbath - Sabbath bloody sabbath (Dee - England/Wales or Scot)
AC/DC - Beatin' around the bush (Bush - N.Ireland)
Europe - Last look at Eden (Eden - England)
Alan Parsons Project - Eye in the sky (Eye Water - Scot)
Styx - Boat on the river
Well today's connection had been sent in by your's truly. It was introduced as a welcome return to the groaners, ie you will groan when you here the answers! The ones submitted were as below. They altered two of them, Black Sabbath was replaced by U2 Sunday bloody Sunday, and Styx were replaced by Bruce Springsteen's the river.
The connection was rivers in the UK, with the odd one out mentioning a river in the title.
(order sent in, not order played)
Queen - Seven seas of rye (Severn - England/Wales)
Peter Frampton - Show me the way (Wey - England)
Van Halen - Why can't this be love (Wye - England/Wales)
Black Sabbath - Sabbath bloody sabbath (Dee - England/Wales or Scot)
AC/DC - Beatin' around the bush (Bush - N.Ireland)
Europe - Last look at Eden (Eden - England)
Alan Parsons Project - Eye in the sky (Eye Water - Scot)
Styx - Boat on the river
Sunday 30 May 2010
Wake Me Up When September Ends
To be honest I have no idea what these lyrics refer to at all, I just think it is a cracking song by Green Day.
All I will say though is that we should learn from every experience we go through both the good and the bad. The pain of losing a loved one for example does fade over time, but the memories of that person will last forever.
The last verse says that twenty years have gone so fast, times does indeed go by rapidly. It does not seem to me like twenty four years since my own father died, or twenty two years since I met my wife for the first time, or nearly thirteen years since our eldest was born. We do not know how long we are on this earth for, but we have to make the most of every opportunity we are given.
"Wake Me Up When September Ends"
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Like my father's come to pass
Seven years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends
Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are
As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Ring out the bells again
Like we did when spring began
Wake me up when September ends
Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are
As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Like my father's come to pass
Twenty years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends
All I will say though is that we should learn from every experience we go through both the good and the bad. The pain of losing a loved one for example does fade over time, but the memories of that person will last forever.
The last verse says that twenty years have gone so fast, times does indeed go by rapidly. It does not seem to me like twenty four years since my own father died, or twenty two years since I met my wife for the first time, or nearly thirteen years since our eldest was born. We do not know how long we are on this earth for, but we have to make the most of every opportunity we are given.
"Wake Me Up When September Ends"
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Like my father's come to pass
Seven years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends
Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are
As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Ring out the bells again
Like we did when spring began
Wake me up when September ends
Here comes the rain again
Falling from the stars
Drenched in my pain again
Becoming who we are
As my memory rests
But never forgets what I lost
Wake me up when September ends
Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
Wake me up when September ends
Like my father's come to pass
Twenty years has gone so fast
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends
Wake me up when September ends
Wednesday 26 May 2010
Trinity Veterans Football Match
Report taken from the Trinity Cheltenham website.
Trinity Vets vs. Trinity F.C. May 25th, 2010
Trinity vets, for a short period in the second half, threatened to cause the biggest upset in Trinity’s football history last night. Down 5-0 after the first half, Trinity Vets dominated early in the second half to come back to 5-3, only to see the relative youth of the regular squad shine through with three late goals to make the final score 8-3.
Last year, this annual fixture was played out in driving rain and howling wind. This year the sun shone brightly, the massive crowds (all three of them) sat on deck chairs and sunned themselves, and the game was played out amidst a beautiful sunset in the shadow of Cleeve Hill.
On paper, Trinity vets had no chance of making an impact on the young, fit and league-topping Trinity FC team. Their average age was 15 years greater, their average weight 2 stone higher, and their average hair line 6 inches further back. Further more, one or two of them were still wearing their short shorts that were all the rage in the 80’s, but now would be more at home in a Borat film than on a football pitch. And indeed, the first half was probably expected. A lot of huffing and puffing from the vets but not a lot else as Trinity FC scored 5 times.
At half time the Vets were treated to a ‘Dan Chatworthy Special’ rallying call. Dan, more renowned for crunching tackles and gutteral grunts, treated the vets to a masterly vocal recitation of true football heritage: they were reminded of the need to ‘keep it tight’, ‘look for the easy ball’, ‘pass it short’, ’support each other’ and not ‘give the opposition time to have a cup of tea’ before going in for the challenge.
Remarkably re-envisioned, the second half began with more enthusiasm from the vets, but with no impact on the field until manager Geoff Routledge made some incisive tactical changes. Grandad was moved from centre forward to goal-keeper, the Rev Gareth Dickinson was replaced by never-Rev Neil Bennetts, and the ex-Rev Jonathon Stott was asked to take his 6 foot 6 frame into the centre forward position. With Grandad shoring up the previously leaky goal, the short hairy legs of Dickinson removed from the field, the quick nimble Bennetts (his words) flying down the wing, and the Peter Crouch look-a-like Stott causing complete mayhem amongst the Trinity FC centre backs, the Vets managed to produce some outstanding penetrating runs into the opposition’s half, resulting in three quick goals that left Trinity FC nervous, and the now five-strong crowd breathless. Maybe if not-to-be-seen-anywhere Rev Bailey had been around to hack a few people down the result would have swung the Vets way. But then soon-to-be-Rev Jon Hills delivered what he had promised to do all evening, and scored a couple of very quick, well executed goals for Trinity FC.
So that was that – a healthy and encouraging result for the Vets, with a scoreline that betrays how close the game was. A technical victory for Trinity FC maybe, but a triumph of attitude, commitment and managing-not-to-die-in-the-process resilience from the Vets.
The return match is next September.
Game on.
Trinity Vets vs. Trinity F.C. May 25th, 2010
Trinity vets, for a short period in the second half, threatened to cause the biggest upset in Trinity’s football history last night. Down 5-0 after the first half, Trinity Vets dominated early in the second half to come back to 5-3, only to see the relative youth of the regular squad shine through with three late goals to make the final score 8-3.
Last year, this annual fixture was played out in driving rain and howling wind. This year the sun shone brightly, the massive crowds (all three of them) sat on deck chairs and sunned themselves, and the game was played out amidst a beautiful sunset in the shadow of Cleeve Hill.
On paper, Trinity vets had no chance of making an impact on the young, fit and league-topping Trinity FC team. Their average age was 15 years greater, their average weight 2 stone higher, and their average hair line 6 inches further back. Further more, one or two of them were still wearing their short shorts that were all the rage in the 80’s, but now would be more at home in a Borat film than on a football pitch. And indeed, the first half was probably expected. A lot of huffing and puffing from the vets but not a lot else as Trinity FC scored 5 times.
At half time the Vets were treated to a ‘Dan Chatworthy Special’ rallying call. Dan, more renowned for crunching tackles and gutteral grunts, treated the vets to a masterly vocal recitation of true football heritage: they were reminded of the need to ‘keep it tight’, ‘look for the easy ball’, ‘pass it short’, ’support each other’ and not ‘give the opposition time to have a cup of tea’ before going in for the challenge.
Remarkably re-envisioned, the second half began with more enthusiasm from the vets, but with no impact on the field until manager Geoff Routledge made some incisive tactical changes. Grandad was moved from centre forward to goal-keeper, the Rev Gareth Dickinson was replaced by never-Rev Neil Bennetts, and the ex-Rev Jonathon Stott was asked to take his 6 foot 6 frame into the centre forward position. With Grandad shoring up the previously leaky goal, the short hairy legs of Dickinson removed from the field, the quick nimble Bennetts (his words) flying down the wing, and the Peter Crouch look-a-like Stott causing complete mayhem amongst the Trinity FC centre backs, the Vets managed to produce some outstanding penetrating runs into the opposition’s half, resulting in three quick goals that left Trinity FC nervous, and the now five-strong crowd breathless. Maybe if not-to-be-seen-anywhere Rev Bailey had been around to hack a few people down the result would have swung the Vets way. But then soon-to-be-Rev Jon Hills delivered what he had promised to do all evening, and scored a couple of very quick, well executed goals for Trinity FC.
So that was that – a healthy and encouraging result for the Vets, with a scoreline that betrays how close the game was. A technical victory for Trinity FC maybe, but a triumph of attitude, commitment and managing-not-to-die-in-the-process resilience from the Vets.
The return match is next September.
Game on.
Sunday 23 May 2010
A Pentecost Hymn
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me,
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Melt us, mold us, fill us,use us,
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me,
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Melt us, mold us, fill us,use us,
Spirit of the living God,
Fall afresh on us.
Saturday 8 May 2010
Find Me In The River
Find me in the river
Find me on my knees
I've walked against the water
Now I'm waiting if you please
We've longed to see the roses
But never felt the thorns
And bought our pretty crowns
But never paid the price
Find me in the river
Find me there
Find me on my knees with my soul laid bare
Even though you're gone and I'm cracked and dry
Find me in the river, I'm waiting here
Find me in the river
Find me on my knees
I've walked against the water
Now I'm waiting if you please
We didn't count on suffering
We didn't count on pain
But if the blessing's in the valley
Then in the river I will wait
Find me on my knees
I've walked against the water
Now I'm waiting if you please
We've longed to see the roses
But never felt the thorns
And bought our pretty crowns
But never paid the price
Find me in the river
Find me there
Find me on my knees with my soul laid bare
Even though you're gone and I'm cracked and dry
Find me in the river, I'm waiting here
Find me in the river
Find me on my knees
I've walked against the water
Now I'm waiting if you please
We didn't count on suffering
We didn't count on pain
But if the blessing's in the valley
Then in the river I will wait
Tuesday 4 May 2010
River In The City
River In The City is the name given to a pioneer ministry in Liverpool. My good friend Keith Hitchman has recently moved up there to be involved in this project. The following is the news release as shown on the Diocese of Liverpool website. I was privileged to have been present at his licensing.
The Diocese of Liverpool has made an exciting new appointment of a minister to focus on the development of a new style of Christian Community in the heart of Liverpool One. The Bishop of Warrington licensed Keith Hitchman to this role in the Tate Gallery this week.
Keith will be in charge of a new type of church for a new type of community. He will spend his time building relationships with the wide variety of people who come to Liverpool One. Keith’s aim is to link into the various networks that exist and explore how a faith based community can develop to help those within their own specific groups. The Diocese is looking at a model of church that doesn’t involve a large number of people coming together in one place but sees groups of people being established around a common interest – whatever that interest is.
As Keith explains “Liverpool One is an excellent example of a community that attracts a variety of people for a range of reasons. Some live here, many work here, even more visit for shopping and leisure. I want to relate to these natural networks and work to understand what people are looking for in their lives and how I can help them relate to God.
“In a world of choice and change people form groups with others who share the same interests and views on life. It is through these groups that they discuss and ask the big questions and I want to help people do that.”
Following this idea Keith’s first task will be to get to know the Liverpool One area and the people who live, work and shop there. He will spend time getting to know people and what they want. He will also be talking to other churches and faith communities in the area.
Keith comes to Liverpool from Gloucestershire where he has been vicar in a wide number of roles since his Ordination in 1995. He has had a wide experience in a variety of roles within the church including being a youth minister, university Chaplain and Chaplain to a community of “New Travellers.” Keith comes to Liverpool as an expert in reaching people who have had no experience of church. Keith is married with two sons.
The Bishop of Warrington said “I am delighted to have licensed Keith to this exciting new role in Liverpool One. The fact the licensing took place in the Tate is a fantastic example of how Keith will be working in this new type of church reaching out to the different networks in this city.”
The Diocese of Liverpool has made an exciting new appointment of a minister to focus on the development of a new style of Christian Community in the heart of Liverpool One. The Bishop of Warrington licensed Keith Hitchman to this role in the Tate Gallery this week.
Keith will be in charge of a new type of church for a new type of community. He will spend his time building relationships with the wide variety of people who come to Liverpool One. Keith’s aim is to link into the various networks that exist and explore how a faith based community can develop to help those within their own specific groups. The Diocese is looking at a model of church that doesn’t involve a large number of people coming together in one place but sees groups of people being established around a common interest – whatever that interest is.
As Keith explains “Liverpool One is an excellent example of a community that attracts a variety of people for a range of reasons. Some live here, many work here, even more visit for shopping and leisure. I want to relate to these natural networks and work to understand what people are looking for in their lives and how I can help them relate to God.
“In a world of choice and change people form groups with others who share the same interests and views on life. It is through these groups that they discuss and ask the big questions and I want to help people do that.”
Following this idea Keith’s first task will be to get to know the Liverpool One area and the people who live, work and shop there. He will spend time getting to know people and what they want. He will also be talking to other churches and faith communities in the area.
Keith comes to Liverpool from Gloucestershire where he has been vicar in a wide number of roles since his Ordination in 1995. He has had a wide experience in a variety of roles within the church including being a youth minister, university Chaplain and Chaplain to a community of “New Travellers.” Keith comes to Liverpool as an expert in reaching people who have had no experience of church. Keith is married with two sons.
The Bishop of Warrington said “I am delighted to have licensed Keith to this exciting new role in Liverpool One. The fact the licensing took place in the Tate is a fantastic example of how Keith will be working in this new type of church reaching out to the different networks in this city.”
In Christ Alone, My Hope Is Found
In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fulness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fulness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
Monday 3 May 2010
World Record Football Match
Below is the press report on this one, as taken from the Gloucestershire Echo site. Respect to all those involved both playing and organising. I was only there from 10.30 Friday night to 7.30 Saturday morning in a off the pitch helping capacity, and I was knackered after, so goodness only knows how the players are now feeling....
FOOTBALLERS took extra time to a whole new level when they smashed the world record for the longest game ever played.
Teams from the Cotswold Churches league scored a whopping 626 goals when they played a continuous 35 hours of football.
The Guinness World Record for the longest match was previously 33 hours.
Cambray FC, made up of members of the Cambray Baptist Church, faced the Cotswold All Stars team, from players from the churches league, in a bid to raise £30,000 to build a school for impoverished children in India.
Kick off at Bishop’s Cleeve Football Club was at 6.30pm on Friday and the full-time whistle was blown at 6.30am on Sunday when torrential rain stopped play.
The All Stars were crowned winners with a final score of 333 to 293.
Cambray player Andy Champion, 37, said he was impressed by how competitive the game was.
“We started off quite fast because we were all so excited, but I was actually surprised by the pace of some of the lads hours into the game,” he said.
“It was a great effort, but the main thing is raising money for the school in India. Every player has raised about £1,000 each.”
Each squad had 18 players, each on the pitch for three hours at a time before being substituted during a five minute break. The time accrued through the breaks was taken off the total mach time.
For every hour played they earned a five minute break which they could accumulate for a longer rest.
None of the players was allowed to leave the area around the pitch so tents were pitched up along the sidelines, where Guinness invigilators watched on.
Food and drink was brought to them by family, friends and supporters.
The teams had hoped to play for 40 hours, but the heavy rain made the pitch too dangerous.
Pete Sheppard, 24, was on the All Stars team, and said the tiredness was the biggest hurdle. “We did a lot of intense training sessions but they don’t prepare you for how long an ordeal this is,” he said.
“90 minutes is a long time but you are playing double that before you have a break. That last hour, everyone is really counting down the minutes.”
As well as smashing the world record, the players are on target to reach their £30,000 fundraising total.
The money will help the Dalit community in India, who are considered outcasts and denied access to public areas such as parks.
RED International will take the money raised to build a school for the children.
In 2008 Cambray Baptist Church gave money to build a school in Kalayarkovil for 450 pupils.
Footballer’s wife Emily McKeown, who helped organise the event, said: “Supporters have been coming through the night to watch them and have even pitched up their tents as well.
“The players are completely shattered and many of them have been left with injuries. We had to make the decision to stop when the rain got heavier and it became a bit too dangerous.”
To donate to the team’s cause online, visit www.football4dalits.com.
FOOTBALLERS took extra time to a whole new level when they smashed the world record for the longest game ever played.
Teams from the Cotswold Churches league scored a whopping 626 goals when they played a continuous 35 hours of football.
The Guinness World Record for the longest match was previously 33 hours.
Cambray FC, made up of members of the Cambray Baptist Church, faced the Cotswold All Stars team, from players from the churches league, in a bid to raise £30,000 to build a school for impoverished children in India.
Kick off at Bishop’s Cleeve Football Club was at 6.30pm on Friday and the full-time whistle was blown at 6.30am on Sunday when torrential rain stopped play.
The All Stars were crowned winners with a final score of 333 to 293.
Cambray player Andy Champion, 37, said he was impressed by how competitive the game was.
“We started off quite fast because we were all so excited, but I was actually surprised by the pace of some of the lads hours into the game,” he said.
“It was a great effort, but the main thing is raising money for the school in India. Every player has raised about £1,000 each.”
Each squad had 18 players, each on the pitch for three hours at a time before being substituted during a five minute break. The time accrued through the breaks was taken off the total mach time.
For every hour played they earned a five minute break which they could accumulate for a longer rest.
None of the players was allowed to leave the area around the pitch so tents were pitched up along the sidelines, where Guinness invigilators watched on.
Food and drink was brought to them by family, friends and supporters.
The teams had hoped to play for 40 hours, but the heavy rain made the pitch too dangerous.
Pete Sheppard, 24, was on the All Stars team, and said the tiredness was the biggest hurdle. “We did a lot of intense training sessions but they don’t prepare you for how long an ordeal this is,” he said.
“90 minutes is a long time but you are playing double that before you have a break. That last hour, everyone is really counting down the minutes.”
As well as smashing the world record, the players are on target to reach their £30,000 fundraising total.
The money will help the Dalit community in India, who are considered outcasts and denied access to public areas such as parks.
RED International will take the money raised to build a school for the children.
In 2008 Cambray Baptist Church gave money to build a school in Kalayarkovil for 450 pupils.
Footballer’s wife Emily McKeown, who helped organise the event, said: “Supporters have been coming through the night to watch them and have even pitched up their tents as well.
“The players are completely shattered and many of them have been left with injuries. We had to make the decision to stop when the rain got heavier and it became a bit too dangerous.”
To donate to the team’s cause online, visit www.football4dalits.com.
Tuesday 20 April 2010
The Union - Step Up To The Plate
Just found this clip taken at the concert I was at in Oxford. The sound quality is not that good, but enjoy anyway....
Voodoo Six - Take The Blame
I won tickets to see these guys along with The Union at Oxford last Sunday. To be honest, had not heard that much of them really, and thought ok but bit too "heavy" for me. They were the support band, and they blew the headliners away in my opinion. Going to listen out for them a lot more now.
Take the blame is an awesome track in my opinion, so enjoy....
Take the blame is an awesome track in my opinion, so enjoy....
Wednesday 7 April 2010
Don't Stop Believing
This is a song that I used to love, but can not stand these days, due to reasons that I need not go into now. Having said that I do recognise it as being a classic song, that lasts the test of time.
At first glance there does not appear to be a lot in this from a semi deep and profound sense, but I keep getting it in my head at the moment, and that normally means post on it.
There is the obvious theme of trying to find something better, by either changing location, one night stands, or the "roll of the dice". This longing for a sense of belonging or betterment is to be found in all of us, and I believe that this feeling can only be satisfied by entering into a living relationship with God.
I think, however, that the reason for the song being put into my head now is in the title. There are times when we all have hard periods in our lives, and struggle to hold onto what we believe in. I know I do, and April is a month with loads of "bad" memories for me. At times I have wondered is it all true, and I know that it is, but the questions get raised. There are times when we/I mess up and think that's it, God can not want to know me now, but he always does. We are encouraged by those who mess up in the bible and go onto great things, both Moses and David for example were murderers. Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, soon after promising never to leave him, he went onto found the church.
There you have it....Don't stop believing, aptly performed by Journey, as we are all on a journey to discover our beliefs.
Just a small town girl
Living in a lonely world
She took the midnight train going anywhere
Just a city boy
Born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train going anywhere
A singer in a smoky room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on and on and on
Strangers, waiting, up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlight people, living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Working hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Paying anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some were born to sing the blues
Oh the movie never ends
It goes on and on and on and on
Don't stop believing
Hold on to that feeling
Streetlight people
At first glance there does not appear to be a lot in this from a semi deep and profound sense, but I keep getting it in my head at the moment, and that normally means post on it.
There is the obvious theme of trying to find something better, by either changing location, one night stands, or the "roll of the dice". This longing for a sense of belonging or betterment is to be found in all of us, and I believe that this feeling can only be satisfied by entering into a living relationship with God.
I think, however, that the reason for the song being put into my head now is in the title. There are times when we all have hard periods in our lives, and struggle to hold onto what we believe in. I know I do, and April is a month with loads of "bad" memories for me. At times I have wondered is it all true, and I know that it is, but the questions get raised. There are times when we/I mess up and think that's it, God can not want to know me now, but he always does. We are encouraged by those who mess up in the bible and go onto great things, both Moses and David for example were murderers. Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, soon after promising never to leave him, he went onto found the church.
There you have it....Don't stop believing, aptly performed by Journey, as we are all on a journey to discover our beliefs.
Just a small town girl
Living in a lonely world
She took the midnight train going anywhere
Just a city boy
Born and raised in South Detroit
He took the midnight train going anywhere
A singer in a smoky room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on and on and on
Strangers, waiting, up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlight people, living just to find emotion
Hiding somewhere in the night
Working hard to get my fill
Everybody wants a thrill
Paying anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some were born to sing the blues
Oh the movie never ends
It goes on and on and on and on
Don't stop believing
Hold on to that feeling
Streetlight people
Monday 5 April 2010
Mighty To Save
Well, everyone needs compassion
A love that's never failing, let mercy fall on me
Well, everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Saviour, the hope of nations
Saviour, He can move the mountains
For my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
Where He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
So take me as You find me
All my fears and failures, fill my life again
I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in, and now I surrender, I surrender
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King
A love that's never failing, let mercy fall on me
Well, everyone needs forgiveness
The kindness of a Saviour, the hope of nations
Saviour, He can move the mountains
For my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
Where He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
So take me as You find me
All my fears and failures, fill my life again
I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in, and now I surrender, I surrender
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Saviour, He can move the mountains
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save
Forever, author of Salvation
He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King, Jesus
Shine Your light and let the whole world see, we're singing
For the glory of the risen King
Saturday 3 April 2010
There Is A Green Hill Far Away
There is a green hill far away,
outside a city wall,
where our dear Lord was crucified
who died to save us all.
We may not know, we cannot tell,
what pains he had to bear,
but we believe it was for us
he hung and suffered there.
He died that we might be forgiven,
he died to make us good,
that we might go at last to heaven,
saved by his precious blood.
There was no other good enough
to pay the price of sin,
he only could unlock the gate
of heaven and let us in.
O dearly, dearly has he loved!
And we must love him too,
and trust in his redeeming blood,
and try his works to do.
outside a city wall,
where our dear Lord was crucified
who died to save us all.
We may not know, we cannot tell,
what pains he had to bear,
but we believe it was for us
he hung and suffered there.
He died that we might be forgiven,
he died to make us good,
that we might go at last to heaven,
saved by his precious blood.
There was no other good enough
to pay the price of sin,
he only could unlock the gate
of heaven and let us in.
O dearly, dearly has he loved!
And we must love him too,
and trust in his redeeming blood,
and try his works to do.
Tuesday 16 March 2010
Cotswold Voluntary Wardens
The below is taken from the AONB website and describes an organisation which I belong to. The Cotswolds AONB is divided into five districts for ease and working purposes. I have just been elected to the post of Chairman for the Central District. I am honoured to have been given this responsibility, even though it really only means that I chair the quarterly general meetings, the quarterly district committee meetings, and attend quarterly meetings with the other chairmen. Politics does creep in sometimes though, as it does in any walk of life.
Cotswold Voluntary Wardens
The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens service was established in 1968. Anyone can join and, today, there are over 340 full time members. The wardens are part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board and volunteer their time and skills to help keep the Cotswolds special.
Warden work parties help conserve and enhance the AONB, taking part in a range of projects from drystone walling, hedge laying, and tree planting to installing kissing gates.
The wardens work with parish councils, farmers and local residents to help keep footpaths open and identify local features in need of restoration.
When they are not taking part in conservation work many wardens conduct hundreds of guided walks, throughout the Cotswolds AONB. Some voluntary wardens also help out at shows and give talks about their work and the AONB to local groups.
Support, training, equipment, travel expenses and a sense of achievement are offered in return for volunteers’ valuable time.
Cotswold Voluntary Wardens
The Cotswold Voluntary Wardens service was established in 1968. Anyone can join and, today, there are over 340 full time members. The wardens are part of the Cotswolds Conservation Board and volunteer their time and skills to help keep the Cotswolds special.
Warden work parties help conserve and enhance the AONB, taking part in a range of projects from drystone walling, hedge laying, and tree planting to installing kissing gates.
The wardens work with parish councils, farmers and local residents to help keep footpaths open and identify local features in need of restoration.
When they are not taking part in conservation work many wardens conduct hundreds of guided walks, throughout the Cotswolds AONB. Some voluntary wardens also help out at shows and give talks about their work and the AONB to local groups.
Support, training, equipment, travel expenses and a sense of achievement are offered in return for volunteers’ valuable time.
Sunday 14 February 2010
God Of Wonders
Lord of all creation
Of water, earth, and sky
The heavens are Your tabernacle
Glory to the Lord on High
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth (2X)
Early in the morning
I will celebrate the light
And as I stumble through the darkness
I will call Your name by night
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth (2X)
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (3X)
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Precious Lord, reveal Your heart to me
Father holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy, holy, holy
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (6X)
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
Early in the morning
I will celebreate the light
and as I stumble through the darkness
I will call your name by night
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Precious Lord reveal your heart to me
Father holy, holy
the universe declares your majesty
you are holy, holy, holy, holy
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Of water, earth, and sky
The heavens are Your tabernacle
Glory to the Lord on High
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth (2X)
Early in the morning
I will celebrate the light
And as I stumble through the darkness
I will call Your name by night
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth (2X)
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (3X)
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Precious Lord, reveal Your heart to me
Father holy, holy
The universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy, holy, holy
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth (6X)
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
Early in the morning
I will celebreate the light
and as I stumble through the darkness
I will call your name by night
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The universe declares your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Precious Lord reveal your heart to me
Father holy, holy
the universe declares your majesty
you are holy, holy, holy, holy
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
halleluiah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Friday 12 February 2010
Football 4 Dalits
One of the great joys in my life is football, and how this great game can reach out and touch people from all spheres of life. The team which I represent, Cheltenham Trinity, play in the Cotswold Churches League. One of our co-members are Cambray FC.
Cambray are hoping to beat the world record for the longest recorded football match, and in the process raise over £30,000 to build, and hopefully equip, a school in India.
The Dalits are what was once known as the untouchables, ie the lowest of the low and outside of the caste system. Their live conditions are incomprehensible to most of us.
Cambray are putting the Gospel words into action, and need both our prayers and support. They have created a website for the event, http://www.football4dalits.com/index.html and I would encourage you all to both take a look and get involved. If everyone of my friends on facebook for example only gave them £1 they would be £150 nearer the total. The website includes details of how to contribute to the sponsorship, details of where and when event is taking place, a fuller picture of why they are doing it, and much more.
I will be getting involved, by advertising the event (just done so), by sponsoring some of our team to take part, and by getting involved in the off pitch side of the activities at the event.
Please consider being part of this. Thank you.
Cambray are hoping to beat the world record for the longest recorded football match, and in the process raise over £30,000 to build, and hopefully equip, a school in India.
The Dalits are what was once known as the untouchables, ie the lowest of the low and outside of the caste system. Their live conditions are incomprehensible to most of us.
Cambray are putting the Gospel words into action, and need both our prayers and support. They have created a website for the event, http://www.football4dalits.com/index.html and I would encourage you all to both take a look and get involved. If everyone of my friends on facebook for example only gave them £1 they would be £150 nearer the total. The website includes details of how to contribute to the sponsorship, details of where and when event is taking place, a fuller picture of why they are doing it, and much more.
I will be getting involved, by advertising the event (just done so), by sponsoring some of our team to take part, and by getting involved in the off pitch side of the activities at the event.
Please consider being part of this. Thank you.
Sunday 7 February 2010
Nature In Art
Have recently visited Nature In Art twice, and enjoyed it both times. It is set in an old house a few miles out of Gloucester on the road to Tewkesbury. I have added a link to their website in the Inspiring Groups section of this blog.
As the name implies, it is a gallery of art inspired by nature. For the next few weeks, the main exhibition is the BBC Wildlife Photographs of the Year. There are some amazing pictures in this exhibition.
There are some amazing paintings on "permanent" display as well. My personal favourite is of a church in Muswell Hill, London. The church is in the background, with the foreground being of an overgrown scrub field. The detail in this painting is vivid and almost life like.
I realise that most, if not all, of the artists displayed there are not Christians, but in my view their work is inspired by the greatest artist ever, God himself.
As the name implies, it is a gallery of art inspired by nature. For the next few weeks, the main exhibition is the BBC Wildlife Photographs of the Year. There are some amazing pictures in this exhibition.
There are some amazing paintings on "permanent" display as well. My personal favourite is of a church in Muswell Hill, London. The church is in the background, with the foreground being of an overgrown scrub field. The detail in this painting is vivid and almost life like.
I realise that most, if not all, of the artists displayed there are not Christians, but in my view their work is inspired by the greatest artist ever, God himself.
Monday 18 January 2010
Haiti
I first became aware of Haiti as an 11 tear old in 1974. They were a country that I'd never heard of, who qualified for the world cup in West Germany that summer. I discovered that apart from being bad at football, the country was half an island in the Caribbean. I have since discovered that it ranks as arguably the poorest nation in the western hemisphere. The country became independent from France following a slave revolt in the mid 1800's.
As you must be aware, the country was hit by a powerful earthquake last week. Since then the situation has worsened by violence caused in the main by escaped gangsters, from the collapsed prison.
It is easy to think that whatever I may do, it will not make a difference. This is wrong. Every long walk is started by one small step. I would urge anyone who can to pray into the situation in Haiti. I would also urge you to consider giving a donation either via the Government's central relief fund, or via an agency such as Tearfund.
As they say in the Tesco adverts - Every Little Helps!
As you must be aware, the country was hit by a powerful earthquake last week. Since then the situation has worsened by violence caused in the main by escaped gangsters, from the collapsed prison.
It is easy to think that whatever I may do, it will not make a difference. This is wrong. Every long walk is started by one small step. I would urge anyone who can to pray into the situation in Haiti. I would also urge you to consider giving a donation either via the Government's central relief fund, or via an agency such as Tearfund.
As they say in the Tesco adverts - Every Little Helps!
Super Badger
If you are on Facebook you should be using Superbadger. Run by Tearfund, it gives an easy way to “badger” different people via email about particular issues. It literally takes a minute to put your name at the bottom of an email and send it. I’ve had responses from government ministers, Tesco, Starbucks and more. It does get through, especially as most of the “badger” requests get done by a thousand or so people.
Imagine if that became 10,000. Or even 100,000. It wouldn’t be that difficult – please can you sign up to it and get others to do the same? If you’re on Twitter then follow Superbadger there as well.
I've stolen the above two paragraphs from Chris Fox's blog, but would reiterate that this a good and easy way to make a constructive difference. I read Chris's post in November, but did nothing about it. Super Badger was is mentioned in the latest edition of Idea, the quarterly magazine from Evangelical Alliance. I decided that it was time for me to sign up. I joined via the link at youth.tearfund.org
Get badgering.
Imagine if that became 10,000. Or even 100,000. It wouldn’t be that difficult – please can you sign up to it and get others to do the same? If you’re on Twitter then follow Superbadger there as well.
I've stolen the above two paragraphs from Chris Fox's blog, but would reiterate that this a good and easy way to make a constructive difference. I read Chris's post in November, but did nothing about it. Super Badger was is mentioned in the latest edition of Idea, the quarterly magazine from Evangelical Alliance. I decided that it was time for me to sign up. I joined via the link at youth.tearfund.org
Get badgering.
Wednesday 6 January 2010
Resolutions
I have never been one for making new year resolutions, as they are easy to make, and even easier to break. There are lots of things that I should resolve to do something about. I could do with losing a fair bit of excess baggage, which would involve eating a bit less, rather than necessarily healthier, and exercising a bit more. I could be a "better" father and husband, by trying to be a bit less me centred and have more patience. I could be a better Christian, by praying more effectively, and by reading my bible in more depth.
All of the things mentioned above, and more, I could do, but would probably fail. Why? I am an expert in both theory, and in trying to do things in my own strength. These alone will lead to failure. I need to rely on God more, and truly expect Him to keep His promises that are given to us in the bible. He alone is the giver of life giving strength. If I ask Him for help, He will freely give it. My life does not then become an easy ride, free from struggle and pain. Far from it! Life though, in partnership with God, is a life worth living, and I pray (not resolve) that I may trust Him more this year.
I hope and pray that as we start this new decade, that God will bless your lives as well as mine.
All of the things mentioned above, and more, I could do, but would probably fail. Why? I am an expert in both theory, and in trying to do things in my own strength. These alone will lead to failure. I need to rely on God more, and truly expect Him to keep His promises that are given to us in the bible. He alone is the giver of life giving strength. If I ask Him for help, He will freely give it. My life does not then become an easy ride, free from struggle and pain. Far from it! Life though, in partnership with God, is a life worth living, and I pray (not resolve) that I may trust Him more this year.
I hope and pray that as we start this new decade, that God will bless your lives as well as mine.
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