Virtual Rugby

My first week of picks was superb, topping the table. My second week abysmal. Oh how pride comes before a fall. So I am in the middle of the table and need a good weekend.

Revival

In a book, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire Jim Cymbala writes "I despaired that my life might pass me by without seeing God move mightily on my behalf."

Great thought!

Communication Guide

This is a handy communication guide for every husband.

DANGEROUS: What's for dinner?
SAFER: Can I help you with dinner?
SAFEST: Where would you like to go for dinner?
ULTRASAFE: Here, have some chocolate.

DANGEROUS: Are you wearing that?
SAFER: Gee, you look good in brown.
SAFEST: WOW! Look at you!
ULTRASAFE: Here, have some chocolate.

DANGEROUS: What are you so worked up about?
SAFER: What did I do wrong?
SAFEST: Here's fifty dollars.
ULTRASAFE: Here, have some chocolate.

DANGEROUS: Should you be eating that?
SAFER: You know, there are a lot of apples left.
SAFEST: Can I get you a glass of wine with that?
ULTRASAFE: Here, have some chocolate.

DANGEROUS: What did you do all day?
SAFER: I hope you didn't overdo it today.
SAFEST: I've always loved you in that robe!
ULTRASAFE: Here, have some more chocolate.

New Season

A new season of rugby is about to kick off. With hopes and dreams shattered last year in both the Super 14 and the World Cup, and a dismal showing by Counties Manukau in the Air Pacific Cup, this year holds new hope. My heart is already buoyed by the 7's team and I am hoping for a good show by Auckland this year. I'm going to the game Saturday night. I have my Uncle's season tickets! That's grace and favour right there!!

Worship

I was just helping Phil Maxwell, our Youth Band Leader, prepare a message on worship for our High School ministry and came across this thought which I thought was great:



St. Francis of Assisi once said: “Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary, use words”.

Evangelism is a lifestyle: it’s not a class, it’s not a program, it is not a chore or a hassle. It is an absolute discipline of devotion and love that comes from a heartfelt response to the Good News of Jesus Christ. It’s a “given” for one who has been redeemed from the pit of hell. It may take many forms, but evangelism is a most natural response for the believer to tell others about what Christ has done in your life!


This idea can be extended to illustrate a very relevant principle in terms of worship:
“Worship at all times; if necessary, use music”.

Worship is not a programmme!

Worship is not a plan or a performance.

Worship is not a given set or style of music! Worship is a heart-felt response to a Saviour who has healed, delivered and forgiven us!