tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61745193853114022702024-03-14T20:07:02.716+11:002Love Blog2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-70179827669550648842008-05-13T15:38:00.002+10:002008-05-13T15:40:57.635+10:0024/7 Prayer...Hey friends!<br /><br />We need your help in covering 24/7 prayer! The territory is doing a year of 24/7 prayer and we need some time slots covered between:<br /><br /><br />28th (7pm) - 31st May (7pm)<br /><br />If you are able to participate for any of these hours please do so! We need to make sure that we are covered in prayer! <br /><br />Peace.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-74532519573724716052008-04-24T10:46:00.001+10:002008-04-24T10:48:05.747+10:00It's WarIn the past month I have been reading Salvation Army History. Through this time I have been struck by the attitude of the early Salvationists.<br /><br />These men and women of The Salvation Army really did have the mindset of a soldier fighting on the frontlines of war. Their motto was “To win the world for Jesus” and they believed that through the power of the Holy Spirit they would. We can learn much from these Salvationists.<br /><br />While I don’t believe for a moment that we have lost sight of trying to “win the world for Jesus” maybe we have forgotten that we are engaged in a war. The early Salvationist recognised that they were in a fight. If they were going to win the fight they had to adopt they mindset of a soldier.<br /> We can learn much from these people. We are in a war, a war for souls and as we remember Anzac Day it is only fitting that we remind ourselves that we too need to fight. Like the Anzacs we need to risk ourselves in order to win the world for Jesus just as our early Salvationists did. Let’s be aggressive, let’s fight and let’s be a true soldier for Christ and the Salvation Army for we do indeed belong to an Army.<br /><br />Phil2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-10675828964018455542008-04-03T14:08:00.001+11:002008-04-03T14:10:55.130+11:00Sharper than a Double Edged SwordLately I have been struck by Hebrews 4:12 which says,” For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires”.<br /><br />This scripture has made me realize how powerful God’s word is. Now you might ask why have you only just noticed? It is because I have started using a technique (which some of you know) and that is praying the scriptures. In other words reading the scripture and then repeating it as a prayer to God.<br /><br />An example of this is Micah 6:8 “O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”. This scripture is repeated over and over again as I offer up prayer to God.<br /><br />As I have started doing this, the scriptures have come alive and Hebrews 4:12 has become real to me, His word exposes things within us that we may not even realize are there. The word also helps us to reach for God. Most I all I find that the word challenges me to take up the fight, to win the world for Christ and be a warrior for God.<br /><br /> This is our call, our challenge. <strong><em>Take up the fight with the word in your hand like a sword, and start proclaiming the good news of the gospel to those that have yet</em></strong> <strong><em>to hear it.</em></strong><br /><br /><em><strong> Phil</strong></em>2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-28034520240003221252008-03-27T15:59:00.000+11:002008-03-27T16:00:31.170+11:00Living SacrificeWe have just completed the Easter period when we reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. Hopefully over Easter you were able to spend time in reflecting on the sacrifice that Jesus made for you.<br /><br />Jesus expects us too to make sacrifices for Him as well Romans 12:1 says, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.”<br /><br />This means that when we offer ourselves to God (I mean every part of ourselves) we become God’s own instrument in which He can work through our own lives to help others. This is a true indication of humility before God and others.<br /><br />With the Self Denial Appeal this weekend we can use this as a time to sacrifice ourselves to God. While we can do this through our money we can also do this through other means as well.<br /><br />My wife and I have decided do live as those in the poorer countries of the world would live such as not purchasing non essential items and cooking the type of food as you would find overseas such as rice etc. This type of living will give us a better understanding of sacrifice even if it is limited and artificial. (I suggest that if you can find the time to do this it might be a good option for you, because it might just help you understand a little bit better about sacrificing for God)<br /> Our sacrifice to God will make us who we are in Christ because it means we give everything of ourselves to Him; there is not one part of our lives that do not belong to God.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-80956701552425797762008-03-13T15:58:00.000+11:002008-03-13T15:59:31.694+11:00Lifestyle ChoicesRecently, my wife and I made the decision to start swimming. As a result we bought a 10-swim pass at our local pool to get started. This decision was made out of the realisation that we needed to be more active and get our level of fitness up so we could lead a healthier lifestyle.<br /><br />Today we see a large number of people that also have made those same personal lifestyle choices. How many people do you see run, walk or ride their bikes now!<br /><br />While we may make these and other choices in life get our bodies healthier, do we make the same choices when it comes to our spiritual life?<br />I suggest that we need to work out our spiritual lives with the same dedication and commitment as we would our bodies. We need to make the same healthier lifestyle choices in our spiritual life if we to grow, so we can be more than followers of Christ but rather Warriors of Christ. If you know of people that are warriors for Christ then I would say they are men and women that soak up the word of God (more than just read it!), they act on the Word of God and also they are people of prayer.<br /> If we are going to be able to be called warriors for Christ then we need to develop those same disciples into our spiritual journey with God.<br /><br /><strong><em>Phil</em></strong>2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-1810576211155293492008-03-06T15:13:00.001+11:002008-03-06T15:16:46.095+11:00Seeing History in our Future<div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;">Up until a certain point in my life, I had never been one to have an appreciation of history, particularly when it came to Salvation Army history. Maybe this was brought about from the misguided thought that what William and Catherine Booth started way back in the UK in 1865 (under the banner of the ‘Christian Mission’) wouldn’t be able to work now because we live in a different age.<br /><br />Thankfully now I have changed my mind about history. We can learn a lot from what others did before us. While it maybe true that if we tried to adopt some of the things that our early pioneers of The Salvation Army, they may not work today because of the changing world we live in, we need to learn from history and apply the timeless principles that they have left as a part of their legacy to us.<br /><br />Personally, I believe it is paramount that we hold onto the principles established by William and Catherine Booth. Firstly because it makes us unique as The Salvation Army, and secondly, these principles such as our doctrines are brought about by sound Christian values and practises.<br /> We can all learn from history and I am encouraged to come across many people who are rediscovering the history of the Salvation Army. Remember William Booth said, “Go for Souls and Go for the worst!” This is our mandate today, which was born out of our history.</span> </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><strong><em><span style="font-family:arial;">Phil</span></em></strong></div>2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-76880040998556694922008-03-04T11:08:00.005+11:002008-03-04T11:29:00.249+11:00Young people making a BIG impactI have always believed that young people are capable of doing the most extraordinary things. This weekend again confirmed that in my mind.<br /><br />On Sunday I travelled to one of the country churches in my division. I attended the church in the morning, participating with the worship band. I then shared lunch with the people from the church before returning to the officers house for a while in the afternoon, before returning to the church to share with the junior soldiers and speak at their youth service in the evening.<br /><br />While I was at the officers house their 8 year old son asked if I wanted to see his worm farm. Apparently he had nagged his parents for some time for this worm farm, and was very excited about having it. For those like me who are unfamiliar with the concept of a worm farm, the basic idea is that you get the worm farm equipment and upwards of 1000 worms, and then you put food and garden scraps into the farm for the worms to eat and then cover everything with newspaper and keep everything moist by adding a small amount of water to the newspaper. The result of this is that the worms eat the scraps and produce worm castings which are apparently very good for your garden. Another by-product of the worm farm is that the water which is added to the newspaper, and some of the other moisture generated from the farms processes drains to the bottom of the farm and out of a tap where it is collected in a bucket in a substance referred to as worm juice. Apparently this worm juice is a fairly valuable commodity at garden centres and is quite beneficial to the garden also.<br /><br />This 8 year old boy, on his own initiative, decided to sell this 'worm juice' to people at his church for $1.00 a litre, is now nearing the $100.00 mark of funds raised. That in itself is fairly impressive, but his next idea blew me away. Instead of using the money he earned for buying a bike or a video game, this 8 year old boy is giving everything that he earns from this venture to The Salvation Army's Self Denial Appeal!!!!<br /><br />Here is an 8 year old boy who through his own initiative is making a difference in peoples lives on the other side of the world!!! If that doesn't blow your mind, I'm not sure what will.<br /><br />I praise God for his work in this boy's life, and pray that we will see more young people stepping up to make a difference in the lives of those around them and even those on the other side of the world.<br /><br />Never let anyone tell you that you're too young to make a difference, if an 8 year old boy can do it, so can you!!!2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-77824250756161590202008-02-28T16:20:00.001+11:002008-02-28T16:25:24.035+11:00A Cause Worth Fighting For?<span style="font-family:arial;">Recently at our cell group we discussed our responsibility and response to the environment and the earth’s resources. This got me thinking about how the environment has become a prominent issue, particularly during the recent election, and how people fight for this cause because they believe that they can make a difference.<br /><br />Today we see people getting involved in causes like the “Make Poverty History” campaign. The Salvation Army is no different with the “Stop the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Traffik</span> “ campaign which fights against human trafficking, such as child slavery”. While no one can argue the merits of such campaigns, one has to ask the question about how serious are we about being involved? Is it enough to merely say we support these causes and wear the t-shirts but then do nothing tangible about it or do we support it in a meaning full way?<br /><br />It was pointed out to me just recently that there are people who use the Salvation Army’s work in such a way. The Army, as an organisation does great work and fights for the disadvantage but is simply being associated with our organisation good enough?<br /><br />I would suggest that it is no good enough to hide behind the Army’s reputation or just wear the T-Shirts that state ‘I’II fight’ and not do anything more.<br /><br />We must therefore ask the question, if we are serious about such campaigns then what are we going to do about it? God is not asking to support causes such as those mentioned above from the sidelines but to actively campaign for them, not just with our mouth, but our actions as well.<br /><br />Let me know what you think? <br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Just a Note: Freedom Day 29<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> March 2pm till’ 5pm @ Box Hill Gardens</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This is great way to start being involved. Contact your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">DYS</span> for more information</span>2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-36333746075721510252008-02-26T16:43:00.002+11:002008-02-26T16:55:25.666+11:00Ministering To Each OtherOn Sunday night I led a group of youth from around the Division in a unique worship style.<br /><br />Instead of having one person choose the songs and format of the evening, and instead of having one person speak on the selected Bible passage and theme, we all shared in guiding worship and exploring what the Bible passage and theme meant.<br /><br />I have labelled this format Un-Church, after the un-conference idea. It was great to see the youth of the division participating and sharing in worship and exploring the passage (1 Tim 4: 12 - 15). An interesting addition to the evening was my being pelted with plastic coins every time I said the words Make Change, and the loud, sometimes forced laughter after every mention of the words New Zealand, organised by one group and joined in by everyone else.<br /><br />I truly think that it is amazing what young people are capable of when we allow them to teach us something. I know that I personally gained fresh insights into the verses of scripture that were shared on Sunday night, and it is my hope that others did too.<br /><br />God is at work within each of us, some of us recognise it and allow Him to work, others recognise it and try to stop His work, and perhaps others are unaware of it and miss the opportunity before them. How different would the world be if we all recognised the Holy Spirit at work within us and allowed it to work???<br /><br />Joel2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-47384573258980492492008-02-25T09:35:00.000+11:002008-02-25T09:36:39.427+11:00More from Simon!It's been a while since I added anything on the old blog. Sorry about that. <br /><br />Last week we had our annual Aquatics water splash day. It's just a time where people of all ages come and have fun in a pool. We have the jumping castle, slip & slid, badminton Etc. It's good to see people hang and have fun.<br /><br />It's kinda like what Jesus did a lot it seems to me that most of his ministry was spending time with people. He ate with them, walked with them, travelled in boats with them. A lot of how he discipled his disciples was in the every day I think.<br /><br />I think we did some every day stuff on Saturday. My prayer was that the unsaved saw in us a life worth living.<br /><br />Blessings<br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-31548628987747845522008-02-13T08:22:00.000+11:002008-02-13T08:46:51.427+11:00Feeling Seperated?Today is a historial day in the history of our country. The Government says sorry to the aborginal and torres strait islander people for being forced to seperate from their families.<br /><br />Now you can argue wether this should happened long before today or not, however this now means the long road to reconcilation can now begin. God who is the Father of reconcilation has long been calling us to come back to him and this has been made possible through His Son. When we are reconciled to God we feel valued just like our aborginal people will hopefully feel today. <br /><br />Every Monday (through volleyball) I witness how people who are often ignored by society are feeling as though they are now valued because of this competition. For many of the partcipants, the competition has become their own community thus they in some way have felt reconcilation with the larger community all becuase of their new found self worth they have. <br /><br />God transforms people when they reconcile themselves with him, so the the question is this. Are you reconciled with God? <br /><br />If you are then what about those that aren't? Is there something you can do to start the the process of reconcilation with God?<br /><br />Phil Shelton2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-86667714715535642392008-02-05T14:25:00.000+11:002008-02-05T14:46:02.910+11:00Journey's SharedRecently I was priviledged enough to lead a group of 11 youth from the division on a trip to New Zealand. Once we arrived in New Zealand we joined a group from Northern Victoria Division and spent some time touring around the north island. Over the time I had the opportunity to really get to know these awesome young people. <br /><br />While we were in Auckalnd we were hosted by the Manukau Salvos who kindly fed, cared for and even allowed us to sleep on thier corps floor, couches, chairs etc only asking us to bless them with our leadership/participation in Worship on Sunday morning. <br /><br />During the first few days we were accompanied by one or two of the youth from Manukau, but on Sunday the Manukau youth group as a whole joined us. what a blessing this turned out to be. after the initial 'get to know you' phase we quickly became a very tight group with people from all groups blending easily. It really wouldn't have been the same if the Manukau crew hadn't joined us!!<br /><br />During this trip I watched as these young people made new friendships, learnt and experienced new things, and gained new insights. I know that some of them had some awesome God moments while actually at the MakeChange conference, but from talking with many of the young people since getting back, some of the most profound or lifechanging moments they experienced were as part of the large western/northern Vic./Manukau group<br /><br />I praise God for the work He has done in their lives, and pray that He will continue this work.<br /><br />I just want to say a huge thanks to all of the group for making the trip so great, and a special thanks to Stu and Nari for the organisation stuff they did to make this trip truly awesome.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-45155798430988608082008-01-30T11:31:00.000+11:002008-01-30T11:47:12.087+11:00MakeChangeIt was good to catch up with most of you during the NZ conference. I had a great time hope you all did also. <br /><br />One thing I noticed was this theme coming through about Loving God and that leading to Loving Others. (Hmmm I've seen that somewhere before). I think the message of 2Love we are starting to teach live and have as our mantra is in God's heart for his people. It was the Vision of the THQ youth team last year it was the message of shakers this year, and it was the heart of the NZ conference. I think God is reminding us of something.<br /><br />Blessings.<br /><br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-31538737600679540182008-01-24T08:48:00.001+11:002008-01-24T09:19:40.163+11:00Out of the LimelightI will just introduce my self before I get started, my name is Phil and I have just joined the "team".<br /><br />One of my first jobs was to attend a conference (not bad for a guy that just started). While on this conference God taught me something totally unexpected, Being Humble (considering it was about sports ministry this came as a surprise)<br /><br />However this is an important lesson because Jesus gave us the example when he washed the disciples feet. The world that we live in also goes very much against this. I know that I'm guilt of not being humble enough - I'm always looking for this whizz bang new ministry and here is God telling me humble yourself before me.<br /><br />This is an important lesson we can all learn form, Philippians 2:3 says this, "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves" (NLT)<br /><br />Remember that as you journey with God to humble yourself before God and He will bless you<br /><br />Phil2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-22110796459373868162008-01-17T09:19:00.000+11:002008-01-17T09:23:17.321+11:00The Joys of CampingJust finished camping with a group of teens at a beautiful part of Tassie, called Fortescue Bay. Amazing white sand, blue water and the perfect surfing wave coming through from the heads. It was truly paradise. <br /><br />One of the important things I have learnt from doing this sort of thing with youth is that the time you spend away with them is so valuable to them. (Even if they fill your sleeping bag full of leaves, twigs and dirt). There is this respect that comes from the youth to their leaders for doing this sort of thing with them. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxvlUXYAbnkKXNSAhyphenhyphenhmJSXLo-FwqzN3bGAh3m9_1DaXCG4NsblVc3EpJ0ex_OJMkOUlRv4Ijgq8lGz4DHKRmFVLHzhX5OMvsBukY5Pnd7Om39VCge6N8n6CgtUYS2PbAAtn44kY5wgY/s1600-h/FBay.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxvlUXYAbnkKXNSAhyphenhyphenhmJSXLo-FwqzN3bGAh3m9_1DaXCG4NsblVc3EpJ0ex_OJMkOUlRv4Ijgq8lGz4DHKRmFVLHzhX5OMvsBukY5Pnd7Om39VCge6N8n6CgtUYS2PbAAtn44kY5wgY/s400/FBay.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156203484977418402" /></a><br /><br />I love the conversations you get to have walking along the beach while splating jelly fish. Or the meaningful night gathered around the camp fire, laughing, pranking and the boys doing what the boys do best with body gasses.<br /><br />My prayer for them is that they felt the same joy and happiness I felt. My prayer for some is that they realised the fun they had without drinking. But my hardest prayer for each of them is that grew to see Christ in a bigger way and that this lasts a life time.<br /><br />Blessings.<br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-33383831104662097282008-01-10T08:57:00.000+11:002008-01-10T08:58:25.817+11:00PlanetshakersWell we are just back from Planet Shakers, Of the 20 that we took no one missed God. I love events like these and camp and connections. It's a time where we can get away from our lives, look to God and let him challenge us about our lives, I love watching our youth get clean during these time. It motivates me in my ministry.<br /><br />My prayer for our youth during this time is that they are placed on a soul journey, that lasts a life time. <br /><br />Blessings<br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-24833321186116247972007-12-31T11:00:00.000+11:002007-12-31T12:15:31.944+11:00When Coffee Happens<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHMMiQxbkVMMSGAh83saBs5K0vhDNNdCohtosf-weQYSRpQO1UOipKlRQEO-AllMeznY55HPpgia0qgDskWdkRL3oUfdwDBmI5dHyFihcWzIl537BQqWtcpGSe0qqVOPpnUHqiwjEG3Y/s1600-h/Coffee+Cup.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHMMiQxbkVMMSGAh83saBs5K0vhDNNdCohtosf-weQYSRpQO1UOipKlRQEO-AllMeznY55HPpgia0qgDskWdkRL3oUfdwDBmI5dHyFihcWzIl537BQqWtcpGSe0qqVOPpnUHqiwjEG3Y/s320/Coffee+Cup.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149939223636594818" /></a><br /><br />I had a significant coffee incident the other Saturday night. I was on my way to Launceston taking Jackson home after a youth meeting. We decided to stop off in Campbell town for a coffee as I had to drive home back to Hobart after dropping him off. So we ordered our drinks, took them back to car and started down the road. I went to take my first sip when the lid pops off and the cup crushes in my hand. the coffee went all down the front of me. I find it funny in life how one person can find something so crappy and frustrating yet that same thing for some else is hilarious. Jackson was laughing so hard he also most wet himself. I had to stop the car pull over and wring out my clothes. Fortunately Jackson had his school sports shorts in the car, (these felt 3 size's too small) and a bonds t shirt that had shrunk in the drier. So with my stomach hanging out in all it's glory I continued the trip to launceston. (With much laughter continuing from the passenger seat).<br /><br />I dropped Jackson at his house and just as he got to the front door yelled back to me. Oh by the I had several other things you could have worn but I thought these would be funniest. So looking like someone about to hop into a Mardi gras parade I drove the 2 hours home.<br /><br />So some 2 Sermon illustrations, many mocking TXT messages from youth, and story about this on a my space later. I have dealt with it.<br /><br />I discovered that during this whole time my character was looked at. Jackson was impressed I didn't swear. People were impressed I didn't get angry. Others are impressed with how well I've taken the coffee gags and comments.<br /><br />We're always watched as youth leaders!<br /><br />I'm just glad I passed this test. <br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-2675489900141907692007-12-20T08:53:00.000+11:002007-12-20T08:57:57.354+11:00Simon's ThoughtsI've just had one of those time periods in my life where you just wish you weren't you. We had to stand down one of our workers for a serious issue in a high school, I have had to take out a restraining order out on one of our girls who has, to say the least, an unhealthy attachment towards me. I lost a $1200.00 kayak, my BBQ got wrecked, and I got a Cricket ball to the ribs. All in one week. <br /><br />I asked myself why? why me? But I remembered the words of a person who died of cancer recently, She said why not me, maybe someone else has been spared this pain.<br /><br />So I say thank you Lord (through gritted teeth.) That I have the strength to endure.<br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-16181641454949616362007-12-15T09:33:00.000+11:002007-12-15T09:34:58.442+11:00StoriesThis week I was having one of those weeks where I found myself thinking “am I having any impact at all here” (I have these from time to time). On Wednesday I was pleasantly surprised by multiple visits from some young people – in fact, in the youth department we had about 10 young adults that I had been involved in leading in some way over the last few years.<br /><br />I was really encouraged to look around and think of the stories involved in all of their lives; stories that I have been privileged to be involved in.<br /><br />God was especially good to me on Wednesday.<br /><br />Darrell2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-89607229806652033232007-12-10T14:35:00.000+11:002007-12-10T14:38:49.540+11:00Connections07Well we had a great time at connections over 80 youth went to it from Tassie. An all time record and a living stress fest for us leaders. <br /><br />It was for me a great thing to see our youth, some who had never been further than 1 hour from their home before be at such an awesome big event. Most thought it was better than Hillsong or Planet Shakers that we go to each year.<br /><br />I loved the way we had some first time attenders with us, youth who have never been to church before. All thought it was great. Some have attended church since then!<br /><br />I learned that once again community it would seem was what all of them craved and it happened for all of them in some way. They certainly went feral at the Saturday night youth rally, we then made a mistake and gave them all a Krispy cream donut which took their hyperness to a new level.<br /><br />I just want to apologise to all those who got a "peg" on ya. Our youth distributed over 300 peg on random people during the weekend. One on the commissioner was the high light and one on the boom camera during the youth rally was cool. also. On the other hand the stewardess girls on the plane on the way home came under a lot of grief.<br /><br />I hope this event was as good for your youth as it was for ours.<br /><br />For me personally I couldn't have done a smarter thing than fly to Fiji for a holiday afterwards.<br /><br />Blessings<br /><br />Simon.2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-66537658359926166162007-12-07T16:24:00.000+11:002007-12-08T02:15:22.072+11:00A Thought on JonahI think about the story of Jonah quite a bit....<br /><br />Jonah is to present to the people of Nineveh a word from the Lord, "Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned" but then the people repent so God changes His mind. Jonah, being a very Godly person (in fact a prophet was possibly the Godliest of all people) then gets angry because God has compassion on them.<br /><br />Imagine if, at the time of judgement, God changes his mind and says "Everyone's in?"<br /><br />I don't think it will happen judging on what I read in the Bible but God is God and He can do what he wants, right?<br /><br />Darrell2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-1826810444017060512007-12-05T13:26:00.000+11:002007-12-05T13:27:56.879+11:00Stu's ThoughtsLast night was the farewell of our divisional Leaders, Lieut-Colonel Jocelyn Knapp and Major Cilla Bone. The usual stuff happened as does at these type of events, speeches, public embarassment, pranks, a combined band and the Commissioners. What I found encouraging was a number of young people who came to bid farewell to our leaders.<br /><br />The youth speech provided by Bendigo local Matthew Tatti (who by some miracle is just young enough to still be considered a youth). During the speech he mentioned how our Divisional leaders were "two old ladies, who like gardening and playing solitare and happen to do some church stuff." Admist the roars of laughter from the congregation there were also two massive beaming smiles from Jocelyn and Cilla. This is important to our youth and sums up how the young people of Northern Victoria view our divisional leaders for the last four years. They are approachable, engaging and our youth know that they care.<br /><br />A couple of months ago I held my 27th birthday party. Among the many young people, family and friends that were in attendance were Jocelyn and Cilla. One of my favourite memories of that night is of Cilla sitting cross-legged on the floor, telling wild stories and listening to the ravings of a hyper-active 20 year old. I must say admire that, it reminds me of the hope I have for the church: a space where age isn't a barrier and we take the time to listen to each other. I long for the church in which our focus isn't on demographics and how we reach specific age groups, but is instead on the reality that every young person needs an adult who is irrationally commited to them. This is how we will see young people grow up with faith and in their faith.<br /><br />So as the last song was sung, the benediction was prayed, the congregation flooded from the auditorium and gravitated towards the the supper table, I stood back. I smiled, and I watched. I saw tear filled hugs from young women who have received the gift of being listen to by "two old ladies... who do some church stuff." It just reminds me youth workers and DYs are the only ones, who change the lives of young people.<br /><br />Stuart McGifford2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-9749470613657602552007-12-04T16:05:00.000+11:002007-12-04T16:27:41.578+11:00The Young and The HopefulI am constantly amazed at how God chooses to use the less than obvious choices of people to change the world!!<br /><br />I had the privilege of travelling to Bendigo on Sunday night to preach at their Divisional Youth Service Fuel. As i was preparing what it was that I felt God wanted me to say to these young people, I realised again the number of times God used teenagers to transform the world.<br /><br />Look at David, he was probably only 12 or 13 when he killed and decapitated the giant Goliath. Think of Jesus' parents; both only teenagers and trusted to raise the Messiah (makes you think about unwed teenage mums a bit different huh??)!! Think of the disciples, still only 16 or so when Jesus called them to take up their cross and follow Him (was Jesus the first full-time youth minister?).<br /><br />Remember back to the early days of The Salvation Army... Back to when a young Bramwell Booth was taken into the pubs and shown the drunken hopelessness of those there, then taken to the bridge under which many homeless people spent the night and was told by his father to do something. Do you remember the story of the 2 teenagers who decided to take the entire country of New Zealand for Jesus, 1 starting at the southern end the other at the northern end and planning to meet in the middle with over 10,000 people!!!<br /><br />It occurs to me that God has often used the young Spirit filled people of a generation to change their world. Is this because these young people have not yet become jaded and cynical, because young people are still capable of seeing possibilities and opportunities where the more 'mature' person sees only problems and obstacles.<br /><br />I leave you with the words of Paul to Timothy in 1 Timothy 2: 12 - 16:<br /><em><strong>"Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers and example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers."</strong></em>2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-76991528347008076812007-12-03T01:04:00.000+11:002007-12-03T01:08:47.233+11:00Darrell's first go!I have just returned from Melbourne where I attended The Salvation Army Australian Southern Territory’s “event of the decade” Connections07. I must say it was very encouraging and challenging at the same time.<br /><br />I feel I should share some thoughts and questions I have coming away from the conference (please don’t hear me having a go at anyone, or TSA, I am just someone who likes to ponder things).<br /><br />1. The first thing that really stood out for me is that we are a very unique church. Consequently there are not many models we can adopt from other churches. So why do we try? <br />And also do we do ourselves an injustice when we try to build churches aimed at white middle class Australians? (I am not saying every Church in our organization does this and I don’t have anything against this particular demographic – I am one). Does all the church growth stuff that is bandied around fit with our movement?<br /><br />2. The Salvation Army as a movement unapologetically calls it’s members to live radically in a world that needs God. So an obvious question is why do so few seem to do it?<br /><br />3. One of the presenters I heard said “we have the resources we need within our organization to achieve our mission”. Comments on this?<br /><br />4. I love what Commissioner Knaggs said about the people who are employees and volunteers (non-Salvationists) are part of TSA. We are all in it together. We all make up the Organization. My question on this is can this kind of thinking really become a reality because at the moment we seem far from it.<br /><br />I don’t want this to be too long so I will stop there! I would love to hear some comments cause I think in conversation we hear from God.<br /><br />God Bless2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6174519385311402270.post-69695765059202817342007-11-20T09:34:00.000+11:002007-11-20T09:54:41.055+11:00Shared ExperiencesIt's amazing how sharing an 'experience' can bring us together.<br /><br />Think of you closest friends, what is it that you remember that made you so close?<br /><br />I imagine that in 90% of cases it was a shared experience.<br /><br />I was at Delacombe for their youth group which they call JPSI (Jesus Per Square Inch). Last Friday was the first night that we opened it up to the grade 6's who will become a part of the JPSI crew next year when they go to High School.<br /><br />I t was great night with lots of fun!<br /><br />We started off the evening playing some table tennis and just hanging out while we waited for eveyone to turn up, then we went over to the local primary school oval where we had an awesome game of Watermelon rugby (imagine rugby played with a watermelon, a nice, juicy, watermelon). This went really well, everyone seemed to have a great time, if a little messy (I know at least 1 of my team was heading home to get their mum to bleach their white t-shirt clean again).<br /><br />After this we switched to playing a game of Capture the Flag in the dark.<br /><br />Each person playing wore a glowstick taped to their arm and had to capture a flipper with 2 glowsticks taped to it.<br /><br />This went really well too.<br /><br />I guess the main point I'm trying to make is that while we had heaps of fun, that wasn't what the night was about. The night was about connecting the youth who are in Grade 6 this year, and about to enter Highschool, with the youth of the JPSI crew and building relationships with them. <br /><br />I believe that one of the best ways to build relationships with people is to share experiences with them. By playing these games where each individual is part of a team we began what I hope will be one of many shared experiences and in time we will grow closer becuase of these shared experiences.<br /><br />The young people at JPSI may not realise it yet, but the plan is not just for them to have a bit of fun, but for them to have a shared experience of Jesus Christ one day, I pray that it will be soon!!2Lovehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10798471588253000231noreply@blogger.com0