The first 2:55 minutes are the same as the previous video posted, but after that there is an interview with her, which is really interesting.
Friday, 30 December 2011
Tuesday, 27 December 2011
06.11.11 - Journey to COME Uganda
For those who aren’t aware, I was staying and working at an organisation called COME Uganda.
Well, someone ‘borrowed’ by pen. Given I’ve left the airport, I don’t think I’m getting it back. It’s absolutely cracking me up.
I spent the time in the line being chatted up by a middle-aged Iranian. He pretended he knew me from Moscow (I’ve never been!) He supposedly ‘wants people to join him in his business’, and invited me to stop by his hotel anytime. I don’t think so. I thought, I’m not that young, and I’m definitely not that stupid.
I left the airport, and the driver, Patrick, was there to pick me up. He has 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls. He’s really nice, and has told me how friendly everyone here is. There is a bit of a rivalry with Kenya – kind of a Sydney / Melbourne rivalry.
There are people everywhere on boda-bodas, their motorbikes, and animals on the streets like its their backyard. Big fat chickens and lean cows, even some goats.
There is an African child conference on! People were being picked up for it at the airport. I saw people for World Vision and etc there.
There are schools, childcares, and churches everywhere, and the smells of fruit and meat cooking, and it seems like its washday, with clothes everywhere, even in bushes and spread out over the grass to dry. And some things are universal, with Patrick lowering his phone as we drove past a police van.
The houses vary immensely, from ones that would seem slightly small and run down in Australia, to shacks that we wouldn’t keep animals in. In front of virtually every house is a stall of some kind.
I arrived at COME Uganda, and found that most people were away, including anyone I’d talked to or heard of. A family who are on a mission trip here for 5 months were here, and they helped me find my way around. They are Britt, Andrew, and their two daughters, Amaya (5) and Abbie (3). Britt showed me all the things, then I unpacked (I have my own room - luxury). We ate dinner together, which I could eat, being GF, and then they let me use their internet to email my family and Kal & Step to let them know I’ve arrived safely.
It’s only 8PM Ugandan time, but I am knackered. I am going to read my Bible and then go to sleep.
Well, someone ‘borrowed’ by pen. Given I’ve left the airport, I don’t think I’m getting it back. It’s absolutely cracking me up.
I spent the time in the line being chatted up by a middle-aged Iranian. He pretended he knew me from Moscow (I’ve never been!) He supposedly ‘wants people to join him in his business’, and invited me to stop by his hotel anytime. I don’t think so. I thought, I’m not that young, and I’m definitely not that stupid.
I left the airport, and the driver, Patrick, was there to pick me up. He has 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls. He’s really nice, and has told me how friendly everyone here is. There is a bit of a rivalry with Kenya – kind of a Sydney / Melbourne rivalry.
There are people everywhere on boda-bodas, their motorbikes, and animals on the streets like its their backyard. Big fat chickens and lean cows, even some goats.
There is an African child conference on! People were being picked up for it at the airport. I saw people for World Vision and etc there.
There are schools, childcares, and churches everywhere, and the smells of fruit and meat cooking, and it seems like its washday, with clothes everywhere, even in bushes and spread out over the grass to dry. And some things are universal, with Patrick lowering his phone as we drove past a police van.
The houses vary immensely, from ones that would seem slightly small and run down in Australia, to shacks that we wouldn’t keep animals in. In front of virtually every house is a stall of some kind.
I arrived at COME Uganda, and found that most people were away, including anyone I’d talked to or heard of. A family who are on a mission trip here for 5 months were here, and they helped me find my way around. They are Britt, Andrew, and their two daughters, Amaya (5) and Abbie (3). Britt showed me all the things, then I unpacked (I have my own room - luxury). We ate dinner together, which I could eat, being GF, and then they let me use their internet to email my family and Kal & Step to let them know I’ve arrived safely.
It’s only 8PM Ugandan time, but I am knackered. I am going to read my Bible and then go to sleep.
Saturday, 24 December 2011
5:45AM Ugandan Time. About to Arrive in Doha! (Then on the plane to Entebbe)
I got off the plane and had 15 minutes until boarding time for my next flight started – not much! My ticket didn’t have the gate number printed on it, so I had to ask at information. They ignored me, even serving other (male) people who came after me before me. Another girl was also ignored. She got frustrated and left.
Just like at church, I’m the minority on this plane. What’s unexpected is that Africans are not the majority, Indians are. Most of them forgot to order their vegetarian meals, and complained immensely. My meal managed to be vegetarian, but I could actually eat less of it than on the previous flight, as it was mostly gluten. They didn’t have enough time to get GF/CF food. They gave me some extra fruit. So I guess I’ve started one “African weight loss plan”. As long as I don’t get the usual one (travellers belly).
Something completely unexpected – my ticket was via Doha in the Middle East and not South Africa, which was what I thought. I seriously didn’t realise! But my one plan is to get to Entebbe, Uganda… hopefully with all my luggage.
***
2:10PM – Touchdown in Entebbe. Overflowing with thankfulness to my God for bringing me here, to the place of my dreams for the past 18 months.
Just like at church, I’m the minority on this plane. What’s unexpected is that Africans are not the majority, Indians are. Most of them forgot to order their vegetarian meals, and complained immensely. My meal managed to be vegetarian, but I could actually eat less of it than on the previous flight, as it was mostly gluten. They didn’t have enough time to get GF/CF food. They gave me some extra fruit. So I guess I’ve started one “African weight loss plan”. As long as I don’t get the usual one (travellers belly).
Something completely unexpected – my ticket was via Doha in the Middle East and not South Africa, which was what I thought. I seriously didn’t realise! But my one plan is to get to Entebbe, Uganda… hopefully with all my luggage.
***
2:10PM – Touchdown in Entebbe. Overflowing with thankfulness to my God for bringing me here, to the place of my dreams for the past 18 months.
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Katie Davis
People often ask if I think my life is dangerous, if I am afraid. I am much more afraid of remaining comfortable. Matthew 10:28 tells us not to fear things that destroy the body. I interact almost daily with people who have deadly diseases, and many times I am the only person who can help them. I live in a country with one of the world’s longest-running wars taking place just a few hours away. Uncertainty is everywhere. But I am living in the midst of the uncertainty and risk, amid things that can and do bring physical destruction, because I am running from things that can destroy my soul: complacency, comfort, and ignorance. I am much more terrified of living a comfortable life in a self-serving society and failing to follow Jesus than I am of any illness or tragedy.
From her book, Kisses From Katie
From her book, Kisses From Katie
Sunday, 18 December 2011
More on Vaccinations
Some more important information for those travelling internationally for foreign missions.
Get a blood test done. I was no longer immune to measles, German measles (aka Rubella), or Hep B, all of which I have been vaccinated against. Not only that, but I even HAD both measles and German measles. I was fine for mumps, which I have never had, ironically. So get a blood test - the last thing you want is to be out of action with something minor, contagious and preventable like chickenpox.
The worst injection I had was the Yellow Fever injection. I ended up feeling slightly sick for a few days afterwards. It is a live vaccine, and cannot be given less than 10 days before travelling, because of potential side effects. GO TO THE DOCTORS EARLY.
Check your pills. I had to take back my original malaria pills because they contained gluten and dairy, both of which I react to. If I hadn't checked, I would have spent the trip having difficulty breathing, vomitting, and having other reactions. The information was on the packet - but I had to check. Don't rely on the doctor to get it all right, they can make mistakes, jsut like anyone else.
Live vaccines need to be one month apart. This means that your MMR and Yellow Fever cannot be at the same time. Take this into account when planning vaccinations. Teh vaccines for different places vary, but there is a big chance that there will be more than one live vaccine. Go early so that you can be fully protected from diseases.
Get a blood test done. I was no longer immune to measles, German measles (aka Rubella), or Hep B, all of which I have been vaccinated against. Not only that, but I even HAD both measles and German measles. I was fine for mumps, which I have never had, ironically. So get a blood test - the last thing you want is to be out of action with something minor, contagious and preventable like chickenpox.
The worst injection I had was the Yellow Fever injection. I ended up feeling slightly sick for a few days afterwards. It is a live vaccine, and cannot be given less than 10 days before travelling, because of potential side effects. GO TO THE DOCTORS EARLY.
Check your pills. I had to take back my original malaria pills because they contained gluten and dairy, both of which I react to. If I hadn't checked, I would have spent the trip having difficulty breathing, vomitting, and having other reactions. The information was on the packet - but I had to check. Don't rely on the doctor to get it all right, they can make mistakes, jsut like anyone else.
Live vaccines need to be one month apart. This means that your MMR and Yellow Fever cannot be at the same time. Take this into account when planning vaccinations. Teh vaccines for different places vary, but there is a big chance that there will be more than one live vaccine. Go early so that you can be fully protected from diseases.
Thursday, 15 December 2011
Sunday 6th, 5:20AM Ugandan Time. Plane to Doha.
Been reading Desiring God (pg 190 my edition), and I came across the statistics that so shocked me when I first read them. They are current as of 2002.
• The global income of church members is $12.3 trillion ($12,300 billion)
• Of this, $213 billion (1.73%) is given to Christian causes
• Of this, $11.4 billion (5.4% of 1.73%) goes to foreign missions
• Of this, 87% goes to those who are already Christians, and 12% to already evangelised non-Christians
• 1% of 5.4% of 1.73% - just $114 million – goes to the unreached.
Current stats are available at missionfrontiers.org
• The global income of church members is $12.3 trillion ($12,300 billion)
• Of this, $213 billion (1.73%) is given to Christian causes
• Of this, $11.4 billion (5.4% of 1.73%) goes to foreign missions
• Of this, 87% goes to those who are already Christians, and 12% to already evangelised non-Christians
• 1% of 5.4% of 1.73% - just $114 million – goes to the unreached.
Current stats are available at missionfrontiers.org
Monday, 12 December 2011
Support Bushikori Over Christmas
If you are looking for Christmas cards that support the spread of the gospel and helping those in difficult circumstances (especially widows and orphans) then look no further! Bushikori Christian Centre in Uganda are selling Christmas cards.
Card 4
Card 2
To see the full range, visit this page of the Bushikori website.
If you want to order some, either leave a comment, email Sam, or speak to her. Alternatively you can order directly from Bushikori (details on the website). For those who want more information on Bushikori, the work it does, or how to further support Bushikori, again, get in contact with Sam.
Card 4
Card 2
To see the full range, visit this page of the Bushikori website.
If you want to order some, either leave a comment, email Sam, or speak to her. Alternatively you can order directly from Bushikori (details on the website). For those who want more information on Bushikori, the work it does, or how to further support Bushikori, again, get in contact with Sam.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Israel - Must Apply SOON
I am aware of a short term missions trip opportunity to Israel. The trip is 1-16th of Feb, and costs are $4200. You must be between 18-35 years of age.
The trip is run through Celebrate Messiah, a Melbourne based group that focuses on reaching Jewish people with the love of Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus).
(From their site / information broshure) Outreach Israel is a short-term missions program designed to bring you face to face with Israelis for the primary purpose of relational evangelism as well as encouraging the local believers in Messiah. Time will be spent in practical activities – like meeting and encouraging believing young people (Jewish and Arabic believers), helping the poor and needy, reaching out to Holocaust survivors, and supporting local messianic congregations. We will be staying in communal accommodation where we will cook together, live together and travel as we minister in the Promised Land. We will also make sure we have some time to play and explore some of the major sites of Israel. The Lord will use you mightily as you reach out to Israelis, hear their stories, and share yours!
Applications close in "mid December", so you have only about a week to think about it and apply.
If you are interested, the information on how to apply is HERE, and if you want more information, then get in contact with Sam.
They also have other mission trips and events, including local missions and missions to New Zealand. I will update with more information as I have it.
The trip is run through Celebrate Messiah, a Melbourne based group that focuses on reaching Jewish people with the love of Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus).
(From their site / information broshure) Outreach Israel is a short-term missions program designed to bring you face to face with Israelis for the primary purpose of relational evangelism as well as encouraging the local believers in Messiah. Time will be spent in practical activities – like meeting and encouraging believing young people (Jewish and Arabic believers), helping the poor and needy, reaching out to Holocaust survivors, and supporting local messianic congregations. We will be staying in communal accommodation where we will cook together, live together and travel as we minister in the Promised Land. We will also make sure we have some time to play and explore some of the major sites of Israel. The Lord will use you mightily as you reach out to Israelis, hear their stories, and share yours!
Applications close in "mid December", so you have only about a week to think about it and apply.
If you are interested, the information on how to apply is HERE, and if you want more information, then get in contact with Sam.
They also have other mission trips and events, including local missions and missions to New Zealand. I will update with more information as I have it.
Friday, 9 December 2011
Prayer for Shaun (Mission Trip to the Phillipines)
1. Philippines is not a very safe place. I only knew that after my Skype session with my mum. Before that, I was totally oblivious to the dangers in Philippines. After reading the website below:
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Philippines
And this happened a few days ago.
http://www.theage.com.au/national/blood-in-home-fuels-fears-for-kidnapped-australian-20111206-1oh9l.html
Typhoons hit northern Philippines 2 months ago.
http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/typhoon-doublewhammy-pummels-philippines-20111001-1l2lg.html
And in January 2011, a public bus was bombed in Makati, central Manila. Five people were killed and more than a dozen injured. Terrorist attacks could occur anytime, anywhere, even in Manila.
The last three points hit pretty near home, 'cos we'll be based around Manila.
Pray for the team, myself included, that we'll arrive back on Australian soils safe. And that we'll alert for any news updates. And when the situation arises, we will trust in God's protection, the Spirit's prompting and do the right thing at the right time. Pray for physical and spiritual covering for the whole team, including Hope Manila.
2. This is from Hope Manila:
Please pray for Ps Soradej from Hope Manila. He was injured yesterday in a car accident whilst going to officiate a wedding. The car
suddenly lost control, resulting in one side of the car being badly
damaged.
Ps Soradej sustained some facial injuries and is undergoing an
operation to remove some foreign object from his face near the eye
area. His wife Eunice is fine. There were two others in the car and
they were also injured.
Please pray for him, his wife (who was the driver), and the other two
who were injured. Let's pray for God's miraculous healing. Let's also
pray for Hope Manila. For God's protection and also that His grace
would overwhelm and sustain them in this time.
3. You can also pray that my journalling abilities will be activated, because I'm not one to write down good memoirs or stories. So, dedication to keep writing, remembering details, being observant in God's moving, and less slacking.
4. Pray that we'll make an impact in the schools, universities, and prisons we'll be visiting. Pray especially for my sessions (highlighted).
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/Philippines
And this happened a few days ago.
http://www.theage.com.au/national/blood-in-home-fuels-fears-for-kidnapped-australian-20111206-1oh9l.html
Typhoons hit northern Philippines 2 months ago.
http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/typhoon-doublewhammy-pummels-philippines-20111001-1l2lg.html
And in January 2011, a public bus was bombed in Makati, central Manila. Five people were killed and more than a dozen injured. Terrorist attacks could occur anytime, anywhere, even in Manila.
The last three points hit pretty near home, 'cos we'll be based around Manila.
Pray for the team, myself included, that we'll arrive back on Australian soils safe. And that we'll alert for any news updates. And when the situation arises, we will trust in God's protection, the Spirit's prompting and do the right thing at the right time. Pray for physical and spiritual covering for the whole team, including Hope Manila.
2. This is from Hope Manila:
Please pray for Ps Soradej from Hope Manila. He was injured yesterday in a car accident whilst going to officiate a wedding. The car
suddenly lost control, resulting in one side of the car being badly
damaged.
Ps Soradej sustained some facial injuries and is undergoing an
operation to remove some foreign object from his face near the eye
area. His wife Eunice is fine. There were two others in the car and
they were also injured.
Please pray for him, his wife (who was the driver), and the other two
who were injured. Let's pray for God's miraculous healing. Let's also
pray for Hope Manila. For God's protection and also that His grace
would overwhelm and sustain them in this time.
3. You can also pray that my journalling abilities will be activated, because I'm not one to write down good memoirs or stories. So, dedication to keep writing, remembering details, being observant in God's moving, and less slacking.
4. Pray that we'll make an impact in the schools, universities, and prisons we'll be visiting. Pray especially for my sessions (highlighted).
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Sam's Uganda Trip - The Airport and Plane
During my trip to Uganda, I took as detailed a journal as possible, with the aim of sharing it here on the missions blog. This will take place over a variety of posts – it’s MUCH too long for one or two posts. Other posts (reviews, quotes, prayer points, etc) will continue in the mean time, but I hope that you all find the details recorded here useful.
Saturday 5th November, 2011. At the airport, 10:15PM Australian time
The bit that has always worried me most about this trip was the airport. Not being in Uganda, not flying, but the being in the airport. If something goes wrong, it is here that it will happen. And this is the place I can’t control things as much, but will want to the most.
The initial stages went well. We got to the airport fine, checked on my luggage fine, and all that. We played a game for a gin company, and I won, and got a pack of cards. Mum got a shot of gin. (Julie and I don’t drink – her at all, me much.) We got a photo taken, dressed up in funny hats, with me having a trophy.
Then it came to entering the security, so I had to say goodbye. I went in, they took photos. I forgot my jacket. It’s my only warm one, but the weather should be ok. I have some rain macs in my luggage.
Then I had to get rid of my chocolate spread. I was so sad – it’s GF/CF, vegan, organic, etc, and amazing. I seriously nearly cried. Especially as they don’t have any food on the plane for me – they lost that information. So I now have half a packet of rice chips and some GF/CF cookies for a 14 ½ hour flight. They are sorting out the other end.
What’s worse is I don’t have my phone. Mum said to just leave it at home, so I did. So I couldn’t give them my coco-choc spread or get back my jacket. Sad.
I have about 1 hour til boarding.
Sunday 6th November, 2011. 10:10AM Aussie time.Dark outside. On the plane.
Well, I boarded the plane well, but completely forgot to take a photo of the take-off. I’ve got a spare seat next to me, and Geoff, the boy of the aisle seat is friendly. He’s going to Tanzania to climb a mountain, and then is going on safari. I was tempted to evangelise and say, as Ray Comfort says he does “Don’t like, there’s the door.”
I was able to eat about half the meal, but I completely forgot to keep the things I can’t eat that were in packaging. There are a lot of beggar street children in Kampala, and I was planning to save stuff for them. But I saved me snack, choosing the biscuits I can’t eat over the ice-cream I can’t eat.
Aside from that, I’ve napped, watched House, Super 8, and started a few other movies that weren’t that good, and done a little reading (Desiring God, by John Piper). I should probably get out my Swahili language book and ipod. Swahili is the 2nd national language of Uganda (the 1st is English). The thing is, most people speak neither language as a first language, instead speaking Luganda. I have a Luganda music CD on my ipod, along with the words in both English and Luganda. It’s a praise and worship CD, so I can learn a bit about Jesus in their native tongue. Back to my reading and music.
Saturday 5th November, 2011. At the airport, 10:15PM Australian time
The bit that has always worried me most about this trip was the airport. Not being in Uganda, not flying, but the being in the airport. If something goes wrong, it is here that it will happen. And this is the place I can’t control things as much, but will want to the most.
The initial stages went well. We got to the airport fine, checked on my luggage fine, and all that. We played a game for a gin company, and I won, and got a pack of cards. Mum got a shot of gin. (Julie and I don’t drink – her at all, me much.) We got a photo taken, dressed up in funny hats, with me having a trophy.
Then it came to entering the security, so I had to say goodbye. I went in, they took photos. I forgot my jacket. It’s my only warm one, but the weather should be ok. I have some rain macs in my luggage.
Then I had to get rid of my chocolate spread. I was so sad – it’s GF/CF, vegan, organic, etc, and amazing. I seriously nearly cried. Especially as they don’t have any food on the plane for me – they lost that information. So I now have half a packet of rice chips and some GF/CF cookies for a 14 ½ hour flight. They are sorting out the other end.
What’s worse is I don’t have my phone. Mum said to just leave it at home, so I did. So I couldn’t give them my coco-choc spread or get back my jacket. Sad.
I have about 1 hour til boarding.
Sunday 6th November, 2011. 10:10AM Aussie time.Dark outside. On the plane.
Well, I boarded the plane well, but completely forgot to take a photo of the take-off. I’ve got a spare seat next to me, and Geoff, the boy of the aisle seat is friendly. He’s going to Tanzania to climb a mountain, and then is going on safari. I was tempted to evangelise and say, as Ray Comfort says he does “Don’t like, there’s the door.”
I was able to eat about half the meal, but I completely forgot to keep the things I can’t eat that were in packaging. There are a lot of beggar street children in Kampala, and I was planning to save stuff for them. But I saved me snack, choosing the biscuits I can’t eat over the ice-cream I can’t eat.
Aside from that, I’ve napped, watched House, Super 8, and started a few other movies that weren’t that good, and done a little reading (Desiring God, by John Piper). I should probably get out my Swahili language book and ipod. Swahili is the 2nd national language of Uganda (the 1st is English). The thing is, most people speak neither language as a first language, instead speaking Luganda. I have a Luganda music CD on my ipod, along with the words in both English and Luganda. It’s a praise and worship CD, so I can learn a bit about Jesus in their native tongue. Back to my reading and music.
Saturday, 3 December 2011
Book Review: Kisses From Katie
You have had the opportunity to read a few quotes from this book. So far, it’s probably my favourite book for the year, and definitely my favourite missionary biography. When you consider that I read 15-20 books a month, you can be assured that this book is really, REALLY good.
Short breakdown: girl goes to Uganda to teach kindergarten for 1 year, planning to go back to her “normal” life in America after that year. Instead she ends up taking in 14 girls (she’s currently in the process of formally adopting 13 of them) , starting an international ministry that provides food, school fees and school supplies to over 200 needy children in her area (the current number is more than 300), and providing basic medical care for people around her.
One of the things that isreally great about this book is her reflections on God’s heart, and how that affects her ministry, and most of these reflections are relevant not only to her ministry, but everyday life anywhere.
The other thing that I really enjoyed was that she stressed how normal she was, how she lived the fairly normal teenage life back in America, how she doesn’t always have a great attitude, and things like that.
I found this book to be really interesting and encouraging, and as I said, one of the best, if not the best, books I’ve read this year.
You can purchase the book here at 147 Million Orphans, and 50% of the proceeds will go to Katie's ministry.
You can purchase the from Amazon book here.
You can visit Katie’s blog here.
You can visit Amazina Ministries (the website for Katie’s ministry) here.
Wednesday, 30 November 2011
Katie Davis
God was showing me His heart and His Word in new ways right there in the life I was living through the children I was serving. Armed with this new sense of who He is and who I was as His servant, I continued trying to give myself away in every circumstance. I wanted to do God’s work, let Him display Himself through my life, and change my world as much as possible every single day. Most days, that didn’t include anything other people would find impressive. It simply meant being faithful to the people and the responsibilities God had given me.
From her book, Kisses From Katie
From her book, Kisses From Katie
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
Sam's Back
For those of you who aren't aware, I am back in the country! I will be posting about my trip to Uganda soon, over a variety of posts. I took a fairly detailed diary while I was gone to post here, and of course, lots of photos!
You'll have to wait for a few more days though, for me to get organised and enough sleep!
You'll have to wait for a few more days though, for me to get organised and enough sleep!
Sunday, 27 November 2011
Sermon Review: How Shall They Hear
I really enjoyed this sermon. It is by Scott Brown, who is most noted for his work in age-integrated churches. This sermon is about how we ALL need to be preaching the gospel – and not just with our example, but by using our words, by preaching, and by using the Word of God in our speech.
This sermon is on Romans 10:12-21, and was downloaded from Sermon Audio.
This sermon is on Romans 10:12-21, and was downloaded from Sermon Audio.
Thursday, 24 November 2011
Katie Davis
Everywhere I looked in the Bible, from the beginning of the Old Testament to the end of Revelation, people who believe in God are supposed to share with the poor. Helping the poor is not something God asks His people to do; it is something that, throughout all generations, He instructs us to do.
From her book, Kisses From Katie
From her book, Kisses From Katie
Monday, 21 November 2011
Half Night Prayer
The next half-night of prayer is on:
Day/Date: Saturday, 26 November 2011
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Brentwood Secondary College Hall
It is a great priviledge to be able to pray together as a church for God's guidance, provision, and protection as we move forward in a variety of areas!
Friday, 18 November 2011
Katie Davis
Originally, my quitting was to be temporary, lasting just one year before I went to college and returned to normal, American teenager life. But after that year, which I spent in Uganda, returning to “normal” wasn’t possible. I had seen what life was about and I could not pretend I didn’t know. So I quit my life again, and for good this time. I quit college; I quit designer clothes and my little yellow convertible; I quit my boyfriend. I no longer have all the things the world says are important. I do not have a retirement fund; I do not even have electricity some days. But I have everything I know is important. I have a joy and a peace that are unimaginable and can come only from a place better than this earth. I cannot fathom being happier. Jesus wrecked my life, shattered it to pieces, and put it back together more beautifully.
From her book, Kisses From Katie (Review coming - but seriously, this is the best book I've read this year!)
From her book, Kisses From Katie (Review coming - but seriously, this is the best book I've read this year!)
Tuesday, 15 November 2011
Book Review: Filling Up the Afflictions of Christ
This is a great triple biography by John Piper, examining the lives of William Tyndale, Adoniram Judson, and John Paton.
This is a great book to be an introduction to John Piper’s writings, and also to the three missionaries that are discussed in the book. The book goes through the trials and persecutions these three missionaries, separated by the centuries, went through to bring the gospel to England, Burma, and the New Hebrides (Vanuatu). It then goes on to go through the fact that they used all of these trials to glorify Christ in their lives.
Here is a sample of this great book:
“In other words, a fruitful life and an eternal life come from dying like a seed and hating your life in this world. What over¬whelms me, as I ponder this and trace the lives of William Tyndale, John Paton, and Adoniram Judson, is how strategic it was that they died so many times and in so many ways before their lives on earth ended. This is no rhetorical flourish. The Bible speaks this way, and these followers of Christ knew it.”
I was already aware of the work of William Tyndale, but not so much of John Paton and Adoniram Judson. I immediately went out and bought John Paton’s autobiography, which I’ve started and am enjoying very much.
You can read this book for free on PDF, at the Desiring God website.
This is a great book to be an introduction to John Piper’s writings, and also to the three missionaries that are discussed in the book. The book goes through the trials and persecutions these three missionaries, separated by the centuries, went through to bring the gospel to England, Burma, and the New Hebrides (Vanuatu). It then goes on to go through the fact that they used all of these trials to glorify Christ in their lives.
Here is a sample of this great book:
“In other words, a fruitful life and an eternal life come from dying like a seed and hating your life in this world. What over¬whelms me, as I ponder this and trace the lives of William Tyndale, John Paton, and Adoniram Judson, is how strategic it was that they died so many times and in so many ways before their lives on earth ended. This is no rhetorical flourish. The Bible speaks this way, and these followers of Christ knew it.”
I was already aware of the work of William Tyndale, but not so much of John Paton and Adoniram Judson. I immediately went out and bought John Paton’s autobiography, which I’ve started and am enjoying very much.
You can read this book for free on PDF, at the Desiring God website.
Saturday, 12 November 2011
Dealing With Family
At some point, many people who want to go overseas on mission trips, (even in the short term), are going to face some opposition from family members. This is likely to happen sooner with those who have non-Christian families, but it can happen with any family.
I’ve already dealt with this in a small manner, as my mother is very concerned for my safety in Uganda. She has told me that I’m going to die (in five different ways).
So, what can you do about this?
1. Listen to their concerns
These people are your family – they are expressing their concerns because they care about you. My mother is really concerned about my health overseas, and while she is taking this concern to an unrealistic level, the fact is she is concerned. Listen and find out exactly what their concerns are.
2. Take precautions
Allay their fears by taking precautions. For me, this means I have contacted extra people in Uganda (friends of friends of my Mum who work with Oxfam), had more than $700 in vaccinations (with more to come) and will be taking plenty of ventolin, anti-histimines, and anti-gastro medications (3 of the 5 ways I’m going to die are asthma, allergies, and gastro).
3. Don’t turn back
Different people will have different concerns, and even the same people will have different concerns for different length of trips. Again, with regard to my family, they are worried that I will get sick for this trip – but they are also concerned that I’m wanting to go back and then won’t have a job that will provide me with all of the necessities of life. This concern cannot be allayed, especially not this trip. In many countries where you are likely to go and do mission work you are not likely to have the same standard of living as you would have in Australia or other Western countries. But I cannot allow their concerns, whether real or not, to keep me from doing what I believe God wants me to do. Some of the most successful missionaries had less-than enthusiastic parents, girl-friends/boy-friends, etc. They pressed on, in spite of the difficulty that they faced, to bring a knowledge God to those who otherwise would be without a witness.
I’ve already dealt with this in a small manner, as my mother is very concerned for my safety in Uganda. She has told me that I’m going to die (in five different ways).
So, what can you do about this?
1. Listen to their concerns
These people are your family – they are expressing their concerns because they care about you. My mother is really concerned about my health overseas, and while she is taking this concern to an unrealistic level, the fact is she is concerned. Listen and find out exactly what their concerns are.
2. Take precautions
Allay their fears by taking precautions. For me, this means I have contacted extra people in Uganda (friends of friends of my Mum who work with Oxfam), had more than $700 in vaccinations (with more to come) and will be taking plenty of ventolin, anti-histimines, and anti-gastro medications (3 of the 5 ways I’m going to die are asthma, allergies, and gastro).
3. Don’t turn back
Different people will have different concerns, and even the same people will have different concerns for different length of trips. Again, with regard to my family, they are worried that I will get sick for this trip – but they are also concerned that I’m wanting to go back and then won’t have a job that will provide me with all of the necessities of life. This concern cannot be allayed, especially not this trip. In many countries where you are likely to go and do mission work you are not likely to have the same standard of living as you would have in Australia or other Western countries. But I cannot allow their concerns, whether real or not, to keep me from doing what I believe God wants me to do. Some of the most successful missionaries had less-than enthusiastic parents, girl-friends/boy-friends, etc. They pressed on, in spite of the difficulty that they faced, to bring a knowledge God to those who otherwise would be without a witness.
Wednesday, 9 November 2011
Beth Clark
People who really want to make a difference in the world usually do it, in one way or another. And I’ve noticed something about people who make a difference in the world: They hold the unshakeable conviction that individuals are extremely important, that EVERY LIFE MATTERS. They get excited over one smile. They are willing to feed one stomach, educated one mind, and treat one wound. They aren’t determined to revolutionize the world all at once; they’re satisfied with small changes. Over time, though, the small changes add up. Sometimes they even transform cities and nations, and yes, the world.
From her foreword in Kisses From Katie.
From her foreword in Kisses From Katie.
Sunday, 6 November 2011
Prayer Points
Please pray for me (Sam Rawson - aka the child crazy blonde) while I am in Uganda
Specific prayer points:
- Complete health while over there (health issues are a big concern for my family in supporting me in this)
- For me to grow closer to God during this time
- For me to have an impact with the children I am working with
- General safety
Thanks all!
Specific prayer points:
- Complete health while over there (health issues are a big concern for my family in supporting me in this)
- For me to grow closer to God during this time
- For me to have an impact with the children I am working with
- General safety
Thanks all!
Thursday, 3 November 2011
Just a Point of Mental Grossness
For those of you who are getting vaccinations of travelling overseas... they make you take cholera as a drink, which definitely hits all the mentally wrong buttons in my brain at least! That said, it not only protects against cholera, but also offers some protection in travellers gastro cases.
If I'd known that, I would have had it before I entered childcare!
If I'd known that, I would have had it before I entered childcare!
Sunday, 30 October 2011
Nate Saint
And people who do not know the Lord ask why in the world we waste our lives as missionaries. They forget that they too are expending their lives…and when the bubble has burst they will have nothing of eternal significance to show for the years they have wasted.
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Review: Don't Waste Your Life
Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper isn't directly related to missions, but it's such a fundamental book that I think everyone should read it at least once. As the title states, it is about not wasting your life, but instead pouring it out for the glory of God.
Beginning with an analysis of what a wasted life is, and how so many people both inside and outside the church waste large proportions of their lives, this book is a wake up call to test us to see if we are truly using our lives for the advancement of God's kingdom.
Here is a quote from inside:
The path of God-exalting joy will cost you your life. Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” In other words, it is better to lose your life than to waste it. If you live gladly to make others glad in God, your life will be hard, your risks will be high, and your joy will be full… Some of you will die in the service of Christ. That will not be a tragedy. Treasuring life about Christ is a tragedy.
Missions is obviously one of the most important ways that we can lose our lives for Christ's sake. Reaching all the world is the last command that Christ gave before He ascended to heaven. How many hear the call to the mission field, either for the short term or the long term, but refuse to follow God's call in order to have more of the dross that the world has to offer?
This book is available for FREE at Desiring God.
Beginning with an analysis of what a wasted life is, and how so many people both inside and outside the church waste large proportions of their lives, this book is a wake up call to test us to see if we are truly using our lives for the advancement of God's kingdom.
Here is a quote from inside:
The path of God-exalting joy will cost you your life. Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” In other words, it is better to lose your life than to waste it. If you live gladly to make others glad in God, your life will be hard, your risks will be high, and your joy will be full… Some of you will die in the service of Christ. That will not be a tragedy. Treasuring life about Christ is a tragedy.
Missions is obviously one of the most important ways that we can lose our lives for Christ's sake. Reaching all the world is the last command that Christ gave before He ascended to heaven. How many hear the call to the mission field, either for the short term or the long term, but refuse to follow God's call in order to have more of the dross that the world has to offer?
This book is available for FREE at Desiring God.
Monday, 24 October 2011
Gladys Aylward
I wasn't God's first choice for what I've done for China…I don't know who it was…It must have been a man…a well-educated man. I don't know what happened. Perhaps he died. Perhaps he wasn't willing…and God looked down…and saw Gladys Aylward…And God said - "Well, she's willing."
Friday, 21 October 2011
Book Review: Mama Jude
This (Mama Jude by Judy Steel) is probably the most secular missions book that will be reviewed – indeed, I didn’t even realise that it had a Christian perspective until I started reading it. It’s marketed as a general “person helps third world people” kind of book. I started it because it’s on the country that I’m about to go to… Uganda! Hence the review.
I actually really enjoyed this book. It is very honest about the different difficulties facing those who go into missions work (specifically in medical fields), both culturally, in terms of lack of finances, and the just plain obstacles that most people in these countries face, such as diseases, weather, etc.
It was especially interesting to me because she mentions the people I am going to stay with several times – Judy Steel even stayed with them twice. Which had me praying half-way through the book when she mentioned that they were temporarily living in pretty bad conditions with one of the most terrifying creatures known to man… rats. (Mice also rate). They have indeed moved (I did know this – but rats have been known to cause apprehension on my part).
One of the things I really liked about this book was that it made everything seem possible – Judy Steel is of retirement age (and was even the first time she went to Uganda), and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and continued to go back.
Another aspect that was really great was how she mentioned that her previous experiences on a farm in Australia came in useful when starting a mirco-loan scheme and helping the women involved start piggeries. It’s important as Christians to realise that God uses things in our background that we never thought would have a use.
The downside to this book is it is pretty secular. God is her reason for going to Uganda, and she mentions how He sustains her while there a few times, but He doesn’t appear much throughout.
Aside from this point, it was a great read (one of the best written missionary autobiographies I’ve read), and would be a wonderful book to interest seekers or baby Christians in missions, or to gather more information on what it can be like in the mission field.
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
Fundraising
One of the big things that put people off of mission trips is the costs involved. They aren't cheap - you can go on a holiday for the same kind of price, and it can be tempting to just go on the holiday instead. But a mission trip has a lot more benefits than just a holiday!
Anyway, onto fundraising. I've done a small amount of fundraising for this mission trip. I have definitely not raised anywhere near the amount that I would have needed to go (I'm funding myself with the rest), but I have raised around $300 in a month, with not that much time or effort.
My two main fundraisers have been selling chocolates at church and work, and making and selling felties. At the moment I'm selling the chocolates for $2 and making $1 profit per bar, and the felties for $5, all of which is profit, but involves a fair bit of work on my part (each feltie takes about 3 hours to make, but I watch DVDs or listen to sermons while making them).
(Felties pictured not made by me)
You CAN raise funds for a mission trip! When people know what you are raising your funds for, sometimes they will just give you money. Even two non-Christians have given me money ($10 each)! Be humble enough to accept it (not like me, who was ready to argue with the person who gave her $50).
Be creative, stick with it, and you can get there in the end!
Anyway, onto fundraising. I've done a small amount of fundraising for this mission trip. I have definitely not raised anywhere near the amount that I would have needed to go (I'm funding myself with the rest), but I have raised around $300 in a month, with not that much time or effort.
My two main fundraisers have been selling chocolates at church and work, and making and selling felties. At the moment I'm selling the chocolates for $2 and making $1 profit per bar, and the felties for $5, all of which is profit, but involves a fair bit of work on my part (each feltie takes about 3 hours to make, but I watch DVDs or listen to sermons while making them).
(Felties pictured not made by me)
You CAN raise funds for a mission trip! When people know what you are raising your funds for, sometimes they will just give you money. Even two non-Christians have given me money ($10 each)! Be humble enough to accept it (not like me, who was ready to argue with the person who gave her $50).
Be creative, stick with it, and you can get there in the end!
Sunday, 16 October 2011
Saturday, 15 October 2011
Jerry Bridges
I am dismayed at how little we Christians pray for the success of among the nations. If we honestly examine our prayers, we find that we give the greatest priority to our own earthly needs. We pray about health needs, financial needs, weather needs, and all other kinds of needs of this life. Perhaps we even pray about our own or our loved ones’ spiritual needs. But how many are praying about the spread of the gospel to the ends of the earth? How many are pleading the promises of God?
From The Gospel for Real Life
From The Gospel for Real Life
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
Frankston Outreach
Frankston Centre was planted by pioneers from Waverley centre in 2007.
Report by Stephen Tan.
It was the first time in a while that the school had kicked us out in our 5 years of tenancy. They needed to run a school event so we needed a temporary location to run church. After a comprehensive search we decided that the best option was the Frankston library. The heart of Frankston. Just the location awakened a greater sense of compassion for the city as we saw the different people passing by. I reflected on how we were reaching people at uni but not many Frankston natives.
As God would have it we were back in the library within a month and this time we had a plan. Led by me we split into three teams of two. Boy girl pairs. There was Phil-Hannah, Kien-Nicole, Sarah-yours truly. Phil was concerned that girls may get hit on as boys may ask for their number but with boy-girl pairs, the boy could offer his number instead. We split up in different directions so we would not encounter the same people.
The plan was to pray for people's needs, evangelise if given the opportunity and to let them know about Hope church. Sarah and I took the direct approach and aired people if they wanted prayer as our opening question. We met an old Italian lady who was smoking outside savers. She had come all the way from Brighton to shop at savers. She was a lapsed catholic. She asked us to pray for her son but she didn't want to stay for a chat. We were turned down by many people who didn't want prayer. Several were confused as to what we were doing and one lady looked really freaked out!
Kien and Nicole headed to the bus stop where they encountered a friendly man who knew a lot about vegetables. They took the indirect approach and started talking to the guy about food. They managed to talk to the guy for almost half an hour and kien was about to start talking about God when his bus arrived. Kien then vowed to be more direct in future.
Hannah and Phil headed for the beach and God gave hannah an image of a large African lady sitting on a bench who needed healing in her right leg. Whilst looking for said African woman they tried to pray for a man but he wasn't keen. They then saw a large dark skinned woman sitting on a bench but she wasn't african. They decided to approach her anyway and asked if she needed prayer. They found out she was South American and a Christian! She said she had osteoporosis which had affected her right leg! They proceeded to pray for the woman's leg and she started praying in spanish. The woman was overjoyed and greatly encouraged in her faith. Although hannah didn't get the race right everything else was. What an amazing word of knowledge that God showed Hannah. Everyone was encouraged by the demonstration of God's power.
Although we would have liked to do better, our first street outreach was a success and we will continue to reach out to Frankston to fulfil God's calling for us as individuals and as a congregation!
Report by Stephen Tan.
It was the first time in a while that the school had kicked us out in our 5 years of tenancy. They needed to run a school event so we needed a temporary location to run church. After a comprehensive search we decided that the best option was the Frankston library. The heart of Frankston. Just the location awakened a greater sense of compassion for the city as we saw the different people passing by. I reflected on how we were reaching people at uni but not many Frankston natives.
As God would have it we were back in the library within a month and this time we had a plan. Led by me we split into three teams of two. Boy girl pairs. There was Phil-Hannah, Kien-Nicole, Sarah-yours truly. Phil was concerned that girls may get hit on as boys may ask for their number but with boy-girl pairs, the boy could offer his number instead. We split up in different directions so we would not encounter the same people.
The plan was to pray for people's needs, evangelise if given the opportunity and to let them know about Hope church. Sarah and I took the direct approach and aired people if they wanted prayer as our opening question. We met an old Italian lady who was smoking outside savers. She had come all the way from Brighton to shop at savers. She was a lapsed catholic. She asked us to pray for her son but she didn't want to stay for a chat. We were turned down by many people who didn't want prayer. Several were confused as to what we were doing and one lady looked really freaked out!
Kien and Nicole headed to the bus stop where they encountered a friendly man who knew a lot about vegetables. They took the indirect approach and started talking to the guy about food. They managed to talk to the guy for almost half an hour and kien was about to start talking about God when his bus arrived. Kien then vowed to be more direct in future.
Hannah and Phil headed for the beach and God gave hannah an image of a large African lady sitting on a bench who needed healing in her right leg. Whilst looking for said African woman they tried to pray for a man but he wasn't keen. They then saw a large dark skinned woman sitting on a bench but she wasn't african. They decided to approach her anyway and asked if she needed prayer. They found out she was South American and a Christian! She said she had osteoporosis which had affected her right leg! They proceeded to pray for the woman's leg and she started praying in spanish. The woman was overjoyed and greatly encouraged in her faith. Although hannah didn't get the race right everything else was. What an amazing word of knowledge that God showed Hannah. Everyone was encouraged by the demonstration of God's power.
Although we would have liked to do better, our first street outreach was a success and we will continue to reach out to Frankston to fulfil God's calling for us as individuals and as a congregation!
Tuesday, 11 October 2011
Just Prayer
There are still thousands of people groups around the world who haven’t yet heard the message of Jesus due to cultural, political and linguistic barriers.
Thousands! Is this just?
We invite you to prayer.
It’s not just prayer. It’s prayer for justice.
From the Just Prayer website.
I know that our church is not Baptist, but let's join with our Christian brothers and sisters to see the work of the gospel go forth throughout all the world.
And he said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
Luke 10:2
Saturday, 8 October 2011
Be In Prayer
There are several mission trips conducted by various churches over this coming summer. Do pray for the teams and believe for great things.
Sending Church Mission Location
Hope Melbourne City Centre - Hope WA (Dandaragen, Busselton and Esperance) Oct 5-18
Hope Auckland - Lautoka, Fiji, Oct 10-18
Hope Brisbane - Suva, Fiji, Oct 12-17
Hope Adelaide - Chennai, India Oct 25 – Nov 2
Hope Hobart - Hope Newcastle, Nov 23-28
Hope Brisbane - Perth & Katanning Nov 23-30
Hope Brisbane - Chiangmai, Thailand, Jan 2-8
Hope Brisbane - Manila, Philippines, Dec 8-15
Hope Brisbane - Liberia, Jan 2012 & Mar 2012
Check out this post at Hope Oceania Missions for more info.
Sending Church Mission Location
Hope Melbourne City Centre - Hope WA (Dandaragen, Busselton and Esperance) Oct 5-18
Hope Auckland - Lautoka, Fiji, Oct 10-18
Hope Brisbane - Suva, Fiji, Oct 12-17
Hope Adelaide - Chennai, India Oct 25 – Nov 2
Hope Hobart - Hope Newcastle, Nov 23-28
Hope Brisbane - Perth & Katanning Nov 23-30
Hope Brisbane - Chiangmai, Thailand, Jan 2-8
Hope Brisbane - Manila, Philippines, Dec 8-15
Hope Brisbane - Liberia, Jan 2012 & Mar 2012
Check out this post at Hope Oceania Missions for more info.
Wednesday, 5 October 2011
Injections
So, I'm (I'm Sam, btw) actually going on a mission trip. To Uganda. Which is exciting. So, I'm going to be blogging about a few things that are happening, so that you can all learn from all the stupid things I do.
So, on to the first post. Which is acutally not about me being silly, but sensible. Injections are very important when travelling to 3rd world countries. You are going to be a blessing, and you are not going to be a blessing if you are sick with Yellow Fever.
See your doctor (or a travel clinic) a MINIMUM of a month before time. You might need more than 1 dose of certain vaccinations (rabies needs 3) and you don't want to have multiple doses all at once, or be only partially covered.
I tend to react to everything under the sun, and was expecting to get really sick from the vaccinations, because I'd heard from several people about how sick they got. I even told work I couldn't guarentee that I'd be in the next day. But I was, because I didn't have to have so many injections all at once ("just" 4 injections, to cover me for 8 different things). I have more vaccinations scheduled, and doing them at the proper intervals means that my chance of having an adverse reaction is minimised.
The other thing is, vaccinaions are EXPENSIVE. Remember this when you're budgeting for your trip. I spent over $400 last night on my vaccinations, and I still have 2 rabies shots, cholera, and another one to go. Plus I need to get medications, insect repellant, and other things to hopefully keep me healthy. If you are sensible (not like me, I forgot), it might be a good idea to check how much each injection will cost BEFORE you go to the doctor.
So hopefully this will help you if you are preparing for your own mission trip.
So, on to the first post. Which is acutally not about me being silly, but sensible. Injections are very important when travelling to 3rd world countries. You are going to be a blessing, and you are not going to be a blessing if you are sick with Yellow Fever.
See your doctor (or a travel clinic) a MINIMUM of a month before time. You might need more than 1 dose of certain vaccinations (rabies needs 3) and you don't want to have multiple doses all at once, or be only partially covered.
I tend to react to everything under the sun, and was expecting to get really sick from the vaccinations, because I'd heard from several people about how sick they got. I even told work I couldn't guarentee that I'd be in the next day. But I was, because I didn't have to have so many injections all at once ("just" 4 injections, to cover me for 8 different things). I have more vaccinations scheduled, and doing them at the proper intervals means that my chance of having an adverse reaction is minimised.
The other thing is, vaccinaions are EXPENSIVE. Remember this when you're budgeting for your trip. I spent over $400 last night on my vaccinations, and I still have 2 rabies shots, cholera, and another one to go. Plus I need to get medications, insect repellant, and other things to hopefully keep me healthy. If you are sensible (not like me, I forgot), it might be a good idea to check how much each injection will cost BEFORE you go to the doctor.
So hopefully this will help you if you are preparing for your own mission trip.
Friday, 16 September 2011
Building the Blocks
I read the other day that "more money is spent each year on chewing gum than on world missions."
Think about that for a minute..
We spend more on something we put in our mouths, chew for a while and spit out- than we do on bringing Jesus to those who need Him as much as we do.
"So because you are lukewarm- neither hot or cold- I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Revelations 3:16
Do you know what breaks my heart about this the most? How many of you have ever stepped into a wad of chewing gum that someone carelessly spit out- not once caring about the person who would come along and step it in? Isn't that in essence the same thing we do to kids like Norma...
From this post at Building the Blocks
Think about that for a minute..
We spend more on something we put in our mouths, chew for a while and spit out- than we do on bringing Jesus to those who need Him as much as we do.
"So because you are lukewarm- neither hot or cold- I am about to spit you out of my mouth." Revelations 3:16
Do you know what breaks my heart about this the most? How many of you have ever stepped into a wad of chewing gum that someone carelessly spit out- not once caring about the person who would come along and step it in? Isn't that in essence the same thing we do to kids like Norma...
From this post at Building the Blocks
Saturday, 27 August 2011
We Are Gaining
In 1900 there were fewer than 10 million Protestants in sub-Saharan Africa. By the year 2000 there will be over 400 million—a growth rate 500 percent faster than thepopulation growth. In 1900 there were only about 50,000 Protestants in Latin America.By the year 2000 there will be over 100 million—a growth rate 20,000 percent faster thanthe population growth. Just over one hundred years ago there were no Christian churchesin Korea. Today there are 6,000 churches in the city of Seoul alone. More Muslims havebecome Christians in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Iran, and East Africa in the last ten yearsthan in the last ten centuries. Christianity is the most extensive and universal religion inhistory. There are churches in every country in the world.
The task remaining is great. But we are gaining steadily. The goal is to reach every people group with the gospel and plant the church among them. Several thousand groupsremain to be reached. But the number is shrinking steadily, and the number of Christiansavailable to complete the job is growing. The great new reality in missions today is theemergence of non-Western missionaries and agencies. There are over 30,000 personneland by the end of the century that number will be over 100,000 at the present rate ofadvance. Not only that, but also, lands once thought to be utterly inaccessible haveopened, as it were, overnight under the sovereign hand of God. And as if that were notenough, God is reversing missions and bringing many of the unreached peoples to ourown Western cities. In Toronto, Canada, live an estimated 67,000 Chinese Buddhists,297,000 Indo-Pakistanis, 88,000 Portuguese, and 109,000 Japanese.
The point is this: there is great cause for hope today. Controversies notwithstanding—or perhaps through the very controversies themselves—Christ will build His church. Allthe families of the earth will be blessed. The nations may rage and the kingdoms totter,but God utters His voice and the earth melts. The victory will not come without suffering.Perhaps this is what will bind us together mostsweetly in the end. May the Lord give usmore light and more love as we hope in Him.
From the chapter CHARITY, CLARITY, AND HOPE:THE CONTROVERSY AND THE CAUSE OF CHRIST
by John Piper and Wayne Grudem From their book RECOVERING BIBLICAL MANHOOD AND WOMANHOOD
The task remaining is great. But we are gaining steadily. The goal is to reach every people group with the gospel and plant the church among them. Several thousand groupsremain to be reached. But the number is shrinking steadily, and the number of Christiansavailable to complete the job is growing. The great new reality in missions today is theemergence of non-Western missionaries and agencies. There are over 30,000 personneland by the end of the century that number will be over 100,000 at the present rate ofadvance. Not only that, but also, lands once thought to be utterly inaccessible haveopened, as it were, overnight under the sovereign hand of God. And as if that were notenough, God is reversing missions and bringing many of the unreached peoples to ourown Western cities. In Toronto, Canada, live an estimated 67,000 Chinese Buddhists,297,000 Indo-Pakistanis, 88,000 Portuguese, and 109,000 Japanese.
The point is this: there is great cause for hope today. Controversies notwithstanding—or perhaps through the very controversies themselves—Christ will build His church. Allthe families of the earth will be blessed. The nations may rage and the kingdoms totter,but God utters His voice and the earth melts. The victory will not come without suffering.Perhaps this is what will bind us together mostsweetly in the end. May the Lord give usmore light and more love as we hope in Him.
From the chapter CHARITY, CLARITY, AND HOPE:THE CONTROVERSY AND THE CAUSE OF CHRIST
by John Piper and Wayne Grudem From their book RECOVERING BIBLICAL MANHOOD AND WOMANHOOD
Friday, 5 August 2011
Monday, 1 August 2011
Friday, 29 July 2011
Tuesday, 26 July 2011
Unreached people groups
Unreached people groups. Less reached people groups. Unengaged people. These are alternative terms used in the study of Christian mission for cultural and language groups who have limited access to the gospel and very few if any Christian communities in their midst. Virtually no-one in these groups have Christian friends who speak their language and understand their culture. According to the Joshua Project, there are still 6870 unreached peoples in the world. That represents approximately 1.7 billion people with very limited access to the gospel message or a church community... When I think of unreached people groups, I am reminded of Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15. When only one sheep out of a hundred was lost, he left his flock and went in search of the one. Unreached did not mean out of reach for Jesus. Today there are at least 1.7 billion people who have never heard of Jesus our shepherd. As representatives of Christ with a shepherd’s heart, I believe we need to continually prioritise seeking out the lost sheep of the world.
By “Andrew” from CityLife’s Acitv8 newsletter, March 2011.
By “Andrew” from CityLife’s Acitv8 newsletter, March 2011.
Wednesday, 13 July 2011
Guest Speaker
Just to announce that we will be having a guest speaker, Ps TT Quah, at our church on th 31st of July.
Ps TT Quah serves God full time, focusing on being a speaker and a mobiliser for missions. He has been involved with missions in Russia and Mynmar, and around the world. As well as sharing the gospel, these mission trips provide micro-finance opportunities, orphan support and medical checks.
Ps TT Quah serves God full time, focusing on being a speaker and a mobiliser for missions. He has been involved with missions in Russia and Mynmar, and around the world. As well as sharing the gospel, these mission trips provide micro-finance opportunities, orphan support and medical checks.
Friday, 8 July 2011
Church Presbytery Update
We are delighted to announce that we will be holding three prophetic evenings from Wednesday 27 July to Friday 29 July at 8.00 pm. Currently, the venue is the church office, but this may change if we discover that the space is not large enough. Three prophets will come, John and Monette Jacks and Phil Lowe and they may be supported by two others as well.
The way we will organize these sessions is that on Wednesday night, the prophecies can be given to the students, Thursday night to the young professionals and Friday night to the families and youth. Anyone is encouraged to attend as the words given impact the whole church, but those receiving prophecies should sit to the front whereas others should sit behind.
We want to encourage all of you to pray for God’s leading and blessing to flow from this time. If you are part of the intercessor team, please really seek God for a powerful time of ministry and direction from the Lord.
For more information about John & Monette Jacks' ministry, please visit their blog.
The way we will organize these sessions is that on Wednesday night, the prophecies can be given to the students, Thursday night to the young professionals and Friday night to the families and youth. Anyone is encouraged to attend as the words given impact the whole church, but those receiving prophecies should sit to the front whereas others should sit behind.
We want to encourage all of you to pray for God’s leading and blessing to flow from this time. If you are part of the intercessor team, please really seek God for a powerful time of ministry and direction from the Lord.
For more information about John & Monette Jacks' ministry, please visit their blog.
Review: Love Has A Face
Here's another review of a great book for those of you who want something to read!
This was a great book about a missionary woman working in an orphanage (that she runs) in Sudan, as well as talking a bit about her previous work in India. There are a lot of great things to say about this book - there's plenty of real information (like that food is so much cheaper in nearby Uganda - I wonder if it still is due to food price increases there); there are stories of miracles, and other exciting events. (Michele Perry is associated with Heidi and Roland Baker)
But ther best aspect of this book was definitely the constant reminder that the most important aspect of a missionary work, regardless of what country you are in, is definitely LOVE. I know that I at least am prone to forget that.
On the not so great side, the book was a little disjointed. It's a series of episodes (and not in chronological order) rather than a continuous story, which wasn't bad, but just wasn't what I was expecting. There are also occasions where in aiming to encourage others she ends up sounding sorry for herself.
Mostly it's a great book, and I very much recommend reading it!
Like pretty much everyone else on the planet, Michele has a blog. Visit it here.
This was a great book about a missionary woman working in an orphanage (that she runs) in Sudan, as well as talking a bit about her previous work in India. There are a lot of great things to say about this book - there's plenty of real information (like that food is so much cheaper in nearby Uganda - I wonder if it still is due to food price increases there); there are stories of miracles, and other exciting events. (Michele Perry is associated with Heidi and Roland Baker)
But ther best aspect of this book was definitely the constant reminder that the most important aspect of a missionary work, regardless of what country you are in, is definitely LOVE. I know that I at least am prone to forget that.
On the not so great side, the book was a little disjointed. It's a series of episodes (and not in chronological order) rather than a continuous story, which wasn't bad, but just wasn't what I was expecting. There are also occasions where in aiming to encourage others she ends up sounding sorry for herself.
Mostly it's a great book, and I very much recommend reading it!
Like pretty much everyone else on the planet, Michele has a blog. Visit it here.
Tuesday, 5 July 2011
Hope Oceania Mission Trip (2010)
Hope Oceania's mission blog has posted about the mission trip to Zambia and the Congo! I know that everyone was really moved when we were all told about this trip during the OC.
A concoction of excitement of 'living the dream, childhood visions fulfilled, and mixed fears, brewed within a vibrant team of young, would be missionaries from Hope Oceania.
What made a group of 12 young, busy people carve out copious time, planning, strategizing, and praying for a foreign, potentially dangerous land?
Quite simply it boiled down to one word.....love. Whether it be love for God, love for the intrepid adventure, or the love for putting feet to Matthew 25v40.
Love was indeed leading us.
So hop on over to the Hope Oceania missions blog and read the whole post!
Friday, 1 July 2011
Church Presbytery
This isn't exactly missions, but I thought I'd let you all know about it anyway!
We are very excited to announce that John Jacks and his wife, Monette and possibly other prophets will be bringing prophetic words to our church on Wednesday 27 July to Friday 29 July. Please keep these dates free in your diaries and wait for further details.
We are very excited to announce that John Jacks and his wife, Monette and possibly other prophets will be bringing prophetic words to our church on Wednesday 27 July to Friday 29 July. Please keep these dates free in your diaries and wait for further details.
Sunday, 19 June 2011
Event
We're having an event at Sam's (and Kallie's) house, on Wednesday the 29th of June, from 7PM to 9PM. We will be making parachutes for Voice of the Martyrs' parachute drop on Columbia:
Voice of the Martyrs is helping persecuted Christians, like Celso, who live and work in a country ravaged by drug wars and terrorism. In addition, we provide Christian literature and Bibles by air, water and road. We give Christians motors for their boats to travel to remote villages, fuel for airplane drops of parachutes filled with Bibles and shortwave radios pre-programmed with Christian broadcasts and vehicles for pastors travelling to places without good roads. Some persecutors now are Christ-followers and are bravely going back to their persecuted homeland to share the Gospel. You can support Christian evangelists like Celso by contributing to our Equipping the Persecuted fund. (View full page here)
If you want to be involved but can't make that time, you can buy a kit (along with a DVD on Columbia) here.
Bring scissors, needles and thread, and if you have white cotton material, bring that too! But mostly, bring a good attitude and a heart of prayer!
Please either comment here or email / text Sam to RSVP, and ASAP so she can make sure she has plenty of materials for everyone. Also, if you need her details, do likewise.
Voice of the Martyrs is helping persecuted Christians, like Celso, who live and work in a country ravaged by drug wars and terrorism. In addition, we provide Christian literature and Bibles by air, water and road. We give Christians motors for their boats to travel to remote villages, fuel for airplane drops of parachutes filled with Bibles and shortwave radios pre-programmed with Christian broadcasts and vehicles for pastors travelling to places without good roads. Some persecutors now are Christ-followers and are bravely going back to their persecuted homeland to share the Gospel. You can support Christian evangelists like Celso by contributing to our Equipping the Persecuted fund. (View full page here)
If you want to be involved but can't make that time, you can buy a kit (along with a DVD on Columbia) here.
Bring scissors, needles and thread, and if you have white cotton material, bring that too! But mostly, bring a good attitude and a heart of prayer!
Please either comment here or email / text Sam to RSVP, and ASAP so she can make sure she has plenty of materials for everyone. Also, if you need her details, do likewise.
Saturday, 18 June 2011
More Stats
TOTAL PERSONS: AD 33-2000
- All persons born since AD 33: 36,673 million
- All persons evangelized since AD 33: 12,105 million (33% of human race)
- All Christians since AD 33: 8,344 million (23% of human race)
- All martyrs killed since AD 33: 69,420,000
- Martyrs as % all Christians ever: 0.8%
- Martyrs among all Christian leaders ever: 2.0%
From Frontier Harvest Ministries
- All persons born since AD 33: 36,673 million
- All persons evangelized since AD 33: 12,105 million (33% of human race)
- All Christians since AD 33: 8,344 million (23% of human race)
- All martyrs killed since AD 33: 69,420,000
- Martyrs as % all Christians ever: 0.8%
- Martyrs among all Christian leaders ever: 2.0%
From Frontier Harvest Ministries
Monday, 13 June 2011
First Book Review!
Honey, We're Going to Africa by Harvey Thomas Hoekstra. Reviewed by Sam(antha).
I found this book in an op shop in Geelong for $1. It was definitely worth the money! It isn't easy found (though you can buy online) but if anyone wants to read they can borrow (read, return to me) mine. It now is published under the title From Knotted Strings to Talking Bibles
This book is about how Harvey and Lavinia Hoekstra became missionaries in Sudan and Ethopia. There are heaps of interesting (including gross) stories and information on the different people groups they ministered to. The story tells of the time where the cassette and aural ways of ministering to people in their native tongues, and their role in it.
This book goes into both the hardships and the blessings of being a missionary, and documents some of the effects on the native population of being in a pagan culture and then how their lives and culture changed dramatically as a result of significant numbers of people coming to Christ. For those of us who have friends who say how "happy" the Africans all were before Christians came (and yes, I've had more than a few conversations allong that line) this book will give you an insight into the truth on this matter.
There are also some small snapshots of family life - and it's interesting to note that at the time of writing 3 of his 6 children were also missionaries (the book was published in 1995, and I believe that one of his sons was as yet still at college.)
Harvey T. Hoekstra has a blog! Visit it at:
http://godspeaksinmylanguage.blogspot.com/
His book is available online as an audio book at http://www.audioscriptures.org/files/knotted-strings/knotted-strings.htm
Wednesday, 8 June 2011
Facts on the Lost
Who are the Un-Reached?
The number of people in the world today who have never heard the name of Christ is 1.9 billion. If all the unevangelised peoples in the world stood shoulder to shoulder they would stretch around the world 22 times. It would take 50 years of filling the MCG everyday before they all had a chance to visit our sporting icon. 1.9 billion people would stretch shoulder to shoulder from Sydney to Melbourne 1087 times. Any way you look at it that is a lot of people.
Statistical Data on Unreached People Groups:
The statistics of the numbers of non-Christians can be 865 million unreached Muslims or Islamic followers in 3330 cultural sub-groupings
- 550 million unreached Hindus in 1660 cultural sub-groups
- 150 million unreached Chinese in 830 groups
- 275 million unreached Buddhists in 900 groups
- 2550 unreached tribal groups (which are mainly animistic) with a total population of 140 million
- Forming a smaller -- though important -- unreached group are the 17 million Jews scattered across 134 countries
- Good news: Missions researcher David Barrett says the country with the most rapid Christian expansion ever is China where there are 10,000 new Christian converts every day.
Bible Translation Availability
At least some part of Scripture has been translated into 2,212 of the world's 6,500 languages
- 366 languages have the entire Bible
- 928 other languages have the New Testament
- Individual books (such as the Gospel of John) are available in 918 additional languages
- 80 percent of the world's people have access to at least some portion of the Bible in a language they can understand.
More information available here.
The number of people in the world today who have never heard the name of Christ is 1.9 billion. If all the unevangelised peoples in the world stood shoulder to shoulder they would stretch around the world 22 times. It would take 50 years of filling the MCG everyday before they all had a chance to visit our sporting icon. 1.9 billion people would stretch shoulder to shoulder from Sydney to Melbourne 1087 times. Any way you look at it that is a lot of people.
Statistical Data on Unreached People Groups:
The statistics of the numbers of non-Christians can be 865 million unreached Muslims or Islamic followers in 3330 cultural sub-groupings
- 550 million unreached Hindus in 1660 cultural sub-groups
- 150 million unreached Chinese in 830 groups
- 275 million unreached Buddhists in 900 groups
- 2550 unreached tribal groups (which are mainly animistic) with a total population of 140 million
- Forming a smaller -- though important -- unreached group are the 17 million Jews scattered across 134 countries
- Good news: Missions researcher David Barrett says the country with the most rapid Christian expansion ever is China where there are 10,000 new Christian converts every day.
Bible Translation Availability
At least some part of Scripture has been translated into 2,212 of the world's 6,500 languages
- 366 languages have the entire Bible
- 928 other languages have the New Testament
- Individual books (such as the Gospel of John) are available in 918 additional languages
- 80 percent of the world's people have access to at least some portion of the Bible in a language they can understand.
More information available here.
Tuesday, 7 June 2011
Combined Life Group
All life groups have been invited to a special event with a guest speaker – Ps Gary Deetlefs, a South African Pastor. Please confirm your LG arrangements with your leader.
Gary is a white South African. He pioneered a church many years ago and still pastors that today in Durban. He is a very anointed local pastor but also networks with other ministries and has a really national and global vision. He has numerous churches and leaders that link with him in South Africa and some other African nations. He will encourage the people and minister to them from a 'local' perspective but with a global vision.
It will be held on Friday, 10 June 2011, 8:00 - 10:00 pm at the church office.
Gary is a white South African. He pioneered a church many years ago and still pastors that today in Durban. He is a very anointed local pastor but also networks with other ministries and has a really national and global vision. He has numerous churches and leaders that link with him in South Africa and some other African nations. He will encourage the people and minister to them from a 'local' perspective but with a global vision.
It will be held on Friday, 10 June 2011, 8:00 - 10:00 pm at the church office.
Monday, 30 May 2011
Welcome
Welcome to Hope Waverley Missions blog, designed to help the members of Hope International Ministries, Waverley centre to help fulfill the Great Commission through mission trips.
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