Not Just a Hat Rack

Not Just a Shop

2010-05-12T21:19:00.006+01:00

As of today, Bangor is officially the coolest place in the UK!

Honestly!

A new 'shop' opened today - just for a few days. It's called STORE. [it's on Bangor High Street]

Basically you look at a list of titles: a sort-of menu. You pick one. Pay your money. And wait.

And these 2 cool guys perform their art.

It's so cool. And really interesting.

Here's a video of my purchase. It's called 'Hang on to Holiness.' What do you think??

(I'll post a picture of the piece asap)

Not Just a History

2010-03-11T14:13:00.006+01:00

Got a spare 10 minutes?

Of course you do.

Give this a listen: Short History of IFES

How did world student witness start? How did it grow?

This is 10 minutes of thankfulness to God!!

Including...

"IFES groups, often small, continue to hold out the Word of Life."

"IFES students are encouraged to read, and to think biblically....they can then apply Scripture in their professions and all areas of life."

"The University is the most influential institution in any nation."

"The world (and its challenges) may change but Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever!"

"We'll sing a hymn which was sung in the very first IFES conference"

---- Anyone want to sing that song with me?? -----

[For more read 'Shining Like Stars' If you've not read it, you must!!]

[Also: 'History in the Making']

Not Just a Competition

2010-01-11T20:23:00.002+01:00

The Daily Telegraph have a competition: the Sports Predictor.

You have a list of 10 sporting competitions / events and you have to predict the winners.

You could win £100,000!!

Simples.

However. The competition has closed. Sorry. But I thought I could 'host' a sports predictor. It's exactly the same as the Telegraph's. Except the prize money. Obviously.

If you're up for it, let me know and I'll email you.

Closing date is start of 6 nations (6th Feb)

Here are the events...

1. Six Nations Championship
2. The Boat Race
3. ICC Twenty20 World Cup
4. The F.A. Cup
5. The Champions League
6. FIFA World Cup
7. Wimbledon: Men's Championship
8. Wimbledon: Women's Championship
9. The Ryder Cup
10. Formula One Drivers' Championship

Not Just a Viewing List

2010-01-10T23:00:00.003+01:00

Ok, challenge number 2...

Watch each of last decade's Oscar winners of Best Film.

Here's the list:

2000 Gladiator

2001 A Beautiful Mind

2002 Chicago

2003 Lord of the Rings: Return of the King

2004 Million Dollar Baby

2005 Crash

2006 The Departed

2007 No Country for Old Men

2008 Slumdog Millionaire

2009 tbc March 7th!

This is less of a hardship than my Pulitzer challenge, but I will watch these in order and review them when I can.

Any other ideas for challenges??

Not Just a Reading List

2010-01-10T22:52:00.003+01:00

I've set myself an intellectual challenge...

This year I will read each of last decade's Pulitzer Prize winners for Fiction.

Ok, so it's not like running a marathon (which my dad is doing again by the way!) But it might be interesting.

Here's the list:

2000 Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri

2001 The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon

2002 Empire Falls by Richard Russo

2003 Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides

2004 The Known World byEdward P. Jones

2005 Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

2006 March by Geraldine Brooks

2007 The Road by Cormac McCarthy

2008 The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz

2009 Olive Kitteridge byElizabeth Strout

I'll post reviews as and when I read them. Fun eh?

Not Just a Movie

2009-11-20T10:54:00.004+01:00

Last night's CU in Bangor was a Movie Night.
We showed the amazing 'Stranger Than Fiction' and had some voluntary questions to discuss.

Here they are...
(Most of them from Damaris)
- What do you think of the film? What’s your favourite scene / quote?

-“What if I was part of a narrative?” How would you react if you found out your life was part of a greater narrative? Who would you want to be in control of your life?

-“You could just eat nothing but pancakes if you wanted.” What do you think of this advice? Why does Hilbert give it?

- What made Harold make his decision at the end of the film? What would you have done?

- What did you think of the ending? Which do you prefer: Hilbert’s or Eiffel’s?

- How do you think Harold will live now?

- What is ‘Stranger Than Fiction’ about?

Not Just Good Advice

2009-11-12T15:06:00.003+01:00

"People should get takeaways instead of cooking"

Ok!
:-)
[For full sentence see BBC Wales]

Not Just a Cricketer

2009-10-27T17:41:00.003+01:00

This guy is C. T. Studd. Think a posh 19th century Freddie Flintoff.
He even played in the match that 'invented' the Ashes! His stats are here: Cricinfo

Studd is one of my Christian heroes - and not just because of the cricket!

I'm re-reading Norman Grubb's biography of Studd ('Cricketer and Pioneer.') It's great!

As you'd expect there's loads of brilliant quotes from Studd about life and the gospel. But he's more than just a quote machine.

Saying that, here's one of my favourite quotes (!) in a letter to his younger brothers:

"...I do not say, Don't play games or cricket. By all means play them and enjoy them, giving thanks to Jesus for them. Only take care that games do not become an idol to you, as they did to me.
What good will it do to anybody in the next world to have been the best player that has ever been? And then think of the difference between that and winning souls for Jesus."

Freddie/KP/Broady: you need to hear this.

Not Just a Map

2009-10-02T23:25:00.002+01:00

I love maps!
This is the UK by population...
What happened to Bangor??!!

From BBC: "...the West of Wales...shrink(s) almost to insignificance."
Bit harsh (!)

For more maps like this go to Worldmapper!

Not Just a Movie

2009-09-25T16:29:00.005+01:00

It's been a while. So where better to get back than with a movie?!

Little Miss Sunshine.
Lovely, charming, sweet. Words you can use to describe Olive, the youngest member of the Hoover family. Not words you'd choose to describe the rest of the family!

Grandpa: a sweary druggy
Dad: failing self-help loser
Mum: pro-honest, smoking, helpless
Son: Silent, hateful
Uncle: suicidal academic

Brilliant movie! Favourite quote: "Everyone pretend to be normal!"

Here are some questions for after you've watched it. I hope they're helpful:

:-) What is your immediate reaction to the film?

:-) Which member of the family changes the most? Why do they need changing? How does it happen?

:-) How do the Hoovers see winning and losing / success and failure? Do you agree with them?

:-) Who's the hero? Why?

Not Just a Plan B

2009-07-15T09:26:00.002+01:00

I've been watching the news over the last few days. Lots of swine flu, as you'd expect.
But it got me thinking. Not what you'd expect (!)

If there's a sudden 'attack' of the flu and we have to quarantine, what would we do about church?

The government/health bods spend most of their time planning in case. So what about us?

I realise we've been taking Communion from the same wine goblet for decades and very few people get the sniffles.
But has anyone thought of how we go to church / do church / be church if no-one is allowed outside?

Answers on a postcard / comment section...

Someone just sneezed next to me. Gross.

Not Just a Marathon

2009-05-20T16:57:00.002+01:00

A few weeks ago my Dad completed the London Marathon. Under 5 1/2 hours. Mighty impressive I think you'll agree!
It was a brilliant day - I spent most of the first hour crying!! There's something about hearing people support runners by name, even though they're total strangers!

Anyway.

My job that day was to wait at mile 8 and 21 to give dad and brother-in-law bananas/jelly babies. Which I just about managed!

As the few thousand runners trudged by many looked surprisingly full of energy. Smiling. Not much sweat.
Others though looked half dead! It looked like they wouldn't make 10 more steps before collapsing. But they did. Slowly. But they made it.
10 steps. 10 steps. 10 steps... until they finished. Then they collapsed with a medal round their neck.

You might hear a lot about living the Christian life being a marathon not a sprint. Which is spot on.

Some people seem to breeze through it. No stress. No sweat. Full of energy.

Others look like they'll stop running any second. But they don't. 10 steps. 10 steps. 10 steps...until they finish.

When Paul was close to dying he said "the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award me..." (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

Whether you struggle through life or not, if you finish it a Christian you get the prize. You get the gold medal, awarded by the perfect Judge. The King of the Universe who welcomes you over the finish line. (btw the prize is Him!)

You don't need to pretend life is easy. You don't need to wear masks to cover up your sweat and toil.
Just keep running. And running. And running. Because (and here's the kicker) the Lord, who we run to, runs with us and in us. It's His energy we run with. He helps us to run well.

Even if it's 10 steps at a time.

Not Just a Community

2009-05-20T16:50:00.002+01:00

Many many people complain about the lack of community. Erosion of togetherness in society. Stuff like that.

If that's true, yesterday I experienced what could be the last form of genuine community living - speed camera warnings.

Cars flashing. Hand gestures.
"Careful fella. There's an evil speed camera van round the corner."

Even though I wasn't speeding at the time (seriously) I was impressed at the compassion shown to fellow road-users.

No community anymore? Not yet sir. Not yet.

Not Just a Promise

2009-05-18T14:18:00.003+01:00

In church yesterday, I said "I do."

But don't worry girls - I'm not married.

I answered these 3 questions:

1. Do you trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for your salvation and will you endeavour by the help of the Holy Spirit to live a life of obedience to him?

2. Do you recognise that you are entering into a relationship with God's people in this local church, and that in doing so, you are making it your spiritual home?

3. Will you endeavour to remain committed to the Lord's work here in Ebenezer, to pray for it and support it?

So I'm now officially a member of Ebenezer Evangelical Church Bangor.

Ask me how it's going. Ask me if I'm praying.

(PS if anyone happens to be glad I'm not married, do get in touch)
:-)

Not Just a Tornado

2009-05-04T12:30:00.003+01:00

10 years ago I was on my Gap Year. I lived and studied in Oklahoma for 6 months - it was brilliant!

Exactly 10 years ago yesterday, May 3rd, there was a tornado. I'd wanted to see one the enire time I was in Okie. And, typically, the one I got to be in wasn't small!

F5.
Fastest winds ever recorded on earth.
Houses 100 yards away demolished - including one the night before me and friends were in watching TV.

We spent the next 48 hours awake rummaging through the debris finding people and possessions. The church became a shelter for people who lost homes.

Memories brought back in these vids:

Not Just a Runner

2009-02-23T11:05:00.003+01:00

My dad is running the London Marathon!
This is him after the Dublin Marathon - practice!!

He's running for The Miscarriage Association, which is a big deal. My sister had a miscarriage a couple of years ago and the Miscarriage Association were a great help to her and the family

Why not sponsor him: JustGiving

Not Just a New Year

2009-01-01T10:46:00.005+01:00

2008 memories...
Joining a gym: and still there!
FREE doodles
Rugby: Wales Grand Slam, Scotland smashing the English
Grace: rediscovering (for myself) what it really means to be a Christian
Spurs at Wembley
Becoming "Iron"
South Africa: Table Mountain, Mr & Mrs Jones and lions
You Can Change
The Dark Knight: what kind of hero do you need?
Gethin: Relay legend
Forum: John Piper, mud, gospel thrills
CU: Bangor freshers, Glyndwr Christmas meal, Yale College evangelism
Swansea beach football with UCCF Wales Team
Max: best nephew
Coldplay: Manchester, Mr & Mrs Jones (again!)

2009 highlights... (I hope!)

UCCF Staff Conference: some spiritual refueling with the coolest people on earth
Oscars: Christopher Nolan, Heath Ledger. Surely.
Bangor CU mission: reading FREE Gospels with friends, introducing everyone to Jesus
Harry Potter 6: Half-blood Prince
Sherlock Holmes
New Word Alive: North Wales is the place to be at Easter
Ashes fever
Madagascar: God willing, leading a summer team in the summer
*Blair's Lions beating South Africa
New Relay-ers
Freshers Week

Questions...
Will I get to see Coldplay?
What new hobbies will I learn?
What league will Spurs be in next season?
Will Worcester finish above Wasps?
*Who will Scotland beat at home in 6 Nations?
What will I read and understand that makes me look more like Jesus?
Who will God save in North Wales Colleges and Universities?

[More to come as my mind thinks of them!!]

Not Just a Charity

2008-12-05T19:39:00.005+01:00

The first place I worked after graduating and doing RELAY was The Joshua Foundation.
They provide holidays and experiences for kids with terminal cancer, and their families.

Yesterday was the 10 year anniversary of Joshua's death - his mum Sarah set up and runs the charity.

Here's a short report from the BBC, with Claire Harries and her family. It gives a flavour of the work. Claire and me worked together for 18 months in Llanishen - it was brilliant!

Take a look a their website: www.thejoshuafoundation.co.uk (I used to work in the 'Oz Experiences' bit)

Next time I'm in Cardiff, I'll pop into their new cafe in Castle Arcade: Comfortably Numb.

Not Just a Problem

2008-11-26T11:22:00.004+01:00

"If you want to conquer a besetting sin, you need to stop loving it."
-Matthew Elliott
(HT: Buzzard Blog)

"Take away the love of sinning..."
('Love Divine, all Loves excelling' by Charles Wesley)

I enjoy sin. That's the problem.

But...

'You can Change.'

We're reading and studying this book in our guys group in Bangor CU.
I love (and need!) the constant reminder that the gospel is true, and that Jesus is greater than sin.

Not Just a Nickname

2008-11-13T15:33:00.004+01:00

I love nicknames - I love thinking of them and giving them to people. Shortening names, lengthening names. Anything.
I've had a few myself!!

As good as nicknames are though, codenames are better!

President-elect Obama has a new one: Renegade.

All Presidents and their families have one, given by the Secret Service. Even in The West Wing: I can't remember what Bartlet's name was, but his daughter was 'Bookbag.' And I think CJ's was 'Flamingo.'

What would you want your codename to be...?

[I'd be happy with 'Iron.' But I fear it would be 'Beacon.']

Not Just a Fight

2008-11-09T20:48:00.000+01:00

Crikey!
Monks (with video)

Not Just a Sunday

2008-11-07T22:04:00.003+01:00

This Sunday is Remembrance Sunday.
This Tuesday is the 90th anniversary of WW1 ending.

What will you do at 11am?

How will you remember?

What will you pray for in those 2 minutes?
(This last question is genuine! I'll give you my answer on Sunday, but you first...)

Not Just the Morning After

2008-11-05T08:09:00.001+01:00

So there we have it.

President-elect Obama will soon become President Obama.

Have a nice day!

Not Just an Election Night

2008-11-05T00:12:00.002+01:00

With BBC coverage just about to start, I'm getting excited!
I figure that I'll only have to make it till 2am before the result is known (if Virginia goes to Obama at midnight, it will be tempting to go to bed then!)

I'm not totally sure exactly what it is that excites me about American politics - I've loved it since A-Levels. Maybe it's the glitz. Maybe it's the emotion - our elections just don't come close do they!

America is still the most influential country in the world. And yet the country's changing.
Whoever wins, it's a really big deal. McCain the war hero with a female VP. Obama the black man, living the American Dream [40 years after blacks were first allowed to vote in the US nationally]

So here goes. The BBC are ready. I'm ready.

Let's just hope that David Dimbleby starts pronouncing 'Barack' properly!

Not Just an Election

2008-11-04T11:53:00.003+01:00

So it's finally here. US Election 2008.
I remember studying my first election in A Level Politics in 1996! Bill Clinton. Great stuff.

This time it's these two:Predictions are always risky, but here's mine.
One of two scenarios:
1. Obama will win by a ridiculous amount
2. McCain will scrape a win (people will get to the polls and 'bottle' voting for Obama)

I'm leaning towards scenario 1 however.

Don't forget, there are loads of other elections going on: amendments to State consitutions, Senate and House races.
Great night in store!

So why not join me in staying up to watch it?
Get some pizza (I'd recommend Dominos) and beer (Bud, obviously) and savour some showbiz democracy.
It's like The West Wing. But without the guys from MASH or the Star Wars Prequels!

Voting proper starts in 1 hour...

Not Just a Graduate

2008-10-31T18:35:00.003+01:00

Glyndwr Uni's latest graduate... Michael Owen

Maybe we'll see him at Glyndwr University Christian Union.
We meet on Monday evenings at 7.30pm. This term we're studying Mark's Gospel.

Not Just a Language

2008-10-31T18:31:00.003+01:00

I genuinely love Welsh. My favourite word is "llyfrgell"

But this is very funny: Email error ends up on road sign

Not Just a Football Match

2008-10-30T13:21:00.002+01:00

Well you didn't expect me not to mention the return of the mighty Spurs?

So good, even the Arsenal stewards want a piece...

(Ok, I know we're still bottom of the league. But 3 points on Saturday takes us off. And we will get 3 points. You reading this Carswell??!)

Not Just a Bus Poster

2008-10-21T15:22:00.002+01:00

This is from the BBC: 'No God' slogans for city buses

This is from the British Humanist Association:

"Probably no God"??
They better be sure they're right...

Not Just a Music Video

2008-10-07T19:13:00.003+01:00

Is this the best video on Youtube??

"(Pipe wrench fight)"

[HT: my very good friend Paul Clark]

Not Just a Movie

2008-09-23T11:23:00.004+01:00

The Kingdom.

I remember seeing it advertised, but wasn't bothered enough to go see it.
How mistaken I was!

Brilliant movie.
US Agents in Saudi Arabia.

Slightly political?! A little. It has one of the best opening sequences I've seen though, with a fascinating history and cultural overview.

It's a bit of a boys movie: fighting, guns, blowing up, Ray Charles, the baddy from Bourne and Elektra.

A great question to ask of any film is "what emotion does it create?" Is it optimistic about life, pessimistic, depressing, happy, flippant...

The Kingdom is pretty downbeat about the world. I'm reluctant to say exactly why because it involves a major plot theme. But it's clear that we're supposed to question the value of sides/opinions being good and bad.

But here is a quote which is interesting:
"...once we clued into the fact that life is finite, the thought of losing it didn't scare us anymore. The end comes no matter what, the only thing that matters is how do you wanna go out, on your feet or on your knees?"

How do you want to die? On your feet or on your knees?

Instinctively we say FEET! Die standing up. With pride. With dignity. For something.

But doesn't that reveal a lot about how highly we think of ourselves?

We don't want to submit to anyone. How can anyone else tell us what to do - it's my life (to quote Bon Jovi and Dr Alban)

That isn't how Christians die.
Christians die on their knees; willingly, joyfully submitting to the God who made all things. In whom is true freedom.

"...at the name of Jesus every knee should bow" (Philippians 2:9-11)

Not Just a Batman Movie

2008-08-07T09:29:00.004+01:00

The wait is over. I finally saw 'The Dark Knight' last night in North West Wales' finest moving picture theatre.
The trip to Llandudno Junction was so worth it!

I know I'm biased (I say that a lot!) but oh baby it was awesome!

Christopher Nolan has done it again - no longer will Godfather part 2 be the best sequel [altho, as an aside, is TDK a proper sequel?]

The Joker was terrifying (the first scene when he puts a knife in a guy's mouth) and hilarious (pencil magic trick)

Batman himself was slightly upstaged by the Joker, but was his usual brooding kick-ass hero.

As ever, Nolan deals with serious human issues.
Batman Begins was identity, and trying to get actions to make up for who you are.
The Dark Knight was about morality and nature of evil, how humans are flawed and fallen. And it was about heroism.

I need to think more about it!

Favourite (non-Joker) scene award: the ferries. If you've seen it, you know why.

Can't wait to see it again!

Not Just a Chocolate Bar

2008-08-04T09:09:00.000+01:00

Brilliant!

Not Just a Biography

2008-08-01T10:15:00.005+01:00

I've been trying to get into biographies. Real heavyweight stuff.
I've read Stephen Fry's, part of Billie Piper's. I'm currently reading Richard Hammond's, called 'On the Edge.'

It's ok. Nothing high-brow or special. But there was something about this paragraph describing his crash that stopped me:

"The next thing to happen, I am quietly convinced, is that I die. There can be no other outcome. I am not scared, my life does not flash before my eyes, there is just a calm resignation. And also a strange relief at finally knowing the answer to a question that perhaps haunts many of us in the very background of our thoughts: How will I die?"

I realised that I was pretty sure I'd asked that same question to myself loads of times. I couldn't tell you when or why (except for one time in my gap year) but it's something I had definitely thought about.

How will I die?

Is it even important?

I don't know what my response to that is. I'm convinced that the gospel is the answer (because Jesus always is!)
I just don't know exactly how.

There we are then. Nice way to start August!

Not Just a Car Manufacturer

2008-07-31T12:08:00.002+01:00

Spurs now has its own Bentley: BBC

All we need next is a Russian (Arshavin), an Irishman (Dunne), a Spaniard (Capel) and an Englishman (Barry)

I love transfer season!

ps thank you to Gareth James for the title :-)

Not Just a Prayer

2008-07-30T18:05:00.004+01:00

O my Saviour, help me!
I am so slow to learn, so prone to forget, so weak to climb.
I am pained by my graceless heart, my prayerless days, my poverty of love.
Make it my chiefest joy to gaze on thee.

MAY I NEVER SEEK IN THE CREATURE WHAT CAN BE FOUND ONLY IN THE CREATOR.

(Some extracts from "A Disciple's Renewal." p184, 'The Valley of Vision')

Not Just a Degree

2008-07-30T13:51:00.003+01:00

My full name is Michael Alexander Chalmers BA Hons.
The BA Hons bit is in 'American Studies.' And I loved it. What a brilliant degree!

And I'm not the only one to have done it, or think it's great. Go and Discover American Studies.
(The 'Video Clips' part might be interesting for you.)

The world needs more American Studies students...

Not Just a Footballer

2008-07-28T23:35:00.003+01:00

Robbie Keane.
R.I.P.

He was so young to be taken from us (born merely 6 days after me. Makes you think doesn't it)
He was always my favourite. Even in the Coventry days.

I'll miss you Robbie!

Don't worry - he's not dead. I'm just sad cos he doesn't play for Spurs anymore.

Games Played: 253
Goals Scored: 107

Not Just a Movie

2008-07-23T16:02:00.004+01:00

When visiting the lovely city of Edinburgh last week, I barged my way past the female hoards queuing to see 'Mama Mia' and bought a ticket for 'Wanted.'
You know the one - Morgan Freeman, the fawn from Narnia and Angie.

Here's the posterAlthough I will not recommend it, I really enjoyed it - lots of action, cool stunts. Brilliant story. Very good!

The story is about some assassins, and in a scene where their purpose is explained, Miss Jolie says this really interesting quote that caught my ears:
"Kill one, maybe save a thousand."

The idea of sacrificing an individual to save others is intriguing. But not new.
Think back to Caiaphas, who presided over Jesus' trial.
He said: “You don’t know what you’re talking about! You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.” (John 11:49-50)

Jesus chose to be sacrificed, not for maybe a thousand, but for a definite People. A guilty People who deserve to be punished are saved by a Man who did not.
Outrageous, crazy, offensive...the gospel. Cool eh?

PS Batman: The Dark Knight comes out tomorrow. I'm so very excited - my favourite director, a good idea, great actors. It can't fail!

Not Just a CU

2008-07-02T14:24:00.001+01:00

Dave Bish, I agree!!

http://thebluefish.org/2008/07/parachurch-that-loves-local-church.html

Not Just a TV Show

2008-06-11T10:00:00.004+01:00

There's a programme that's just started on Channel 4, that I've enjoyed on E4 for a few months.

Reaper.

It's about Sam (centre of pic), a guy who finds out his parents sold his soul to the Devil (on the ladder in pic) and now has to capture evil souls that have escaped from hell.

Needless to say there are one or two theological issues.

But I've loved the show! I think it's hilarious (especially the large fellow called 'Sock' - far left on pic, standing up)

And it has actually got a few interesting thoughts on the nature of evil, what humans are like.

So why not find it and give it a try.

Not Just a Website

2008-06-02T10:26:00.001+01:00

Hilarious!
There's plenty more at manbabies.com!
Funny, but I don't know why

Not Just a Knock at the Door

2008-05-31T10:40:00.002+01:00

I feel a bit weird.

Just now, as I was settling down to continue my attempt at winning the league with Spurs and securing World Cup qualification with England (Championship Manager 2006!) there was a knock at the door.

2 very nice smiley-faced women were standing there ready to ask me if I believe in God.
I smiled back and said yes.

They read a couple of verses from Revelation 21 about God wiping every tear from our eye in heaven.
"What did I think of that?" she asked

"It's great isn't it," I said. "Great that Jesus is there, on the throne, because he's God and he died for us."

They agreed, gave me a magazine with a tiger on the front (The Watchtower) and thanked me.

Now here's the kicker: "You've really set us up for the day Mike. You're the first door we've come to today that's had a smiling face and belief in God. Thank you. You've encouraged us. We'll have a good day now."

I feel a bit weird...

Not Just a Concert

2008-05-30T10:16:00.005+01:00

Just bought tickets to see Coldplay in December in Manchester.
It's gonna be chilly up there. But it'll be so very awesome!

Album comes out in a few weeks too!

Not Just a Voice

2008-05-30T10:11:00.002+01:00

Scientists have come up with the perfect voice: BBC website

Is it me, or does the "perfect male voice" sound a tiny little bit like Mo???
I can't decide if I'm being a deaf moron or not!

Answers on a postcard...

Not Just a BBQ

2008-05-27T10:47:00.005+01:00

This year's BBQs are beginning to stack up. Bangor CU are having one on Thursday night. I may be going to one on Wednesday. We had one the other week at Llandrillo College Cristianity Awareness week. And I was at one last night.
I love this time of year!!

Last night's was the Bangor 'Christians in Sport' group's end of year social. (I've given it quite a long and not so-catchy title there!) It was brilliant! Not only was the food excellent (and it was remarkably good - sausages, burgers, chicken with no pink bits, crisps, biscuits) but the social aspect was just as good.

I love the CIS group!
I enjoy hanging out with them.
I enjoy chatting about serious things with them.
I enjoy chatting about silly things with them!
I've appreciated meeting each Wednesday morning at 7.30am for breakfast and Bible study and prayer.

What I love most is the group's love of Jesus. They are committed to having fun, loving each other, excelling at sport (whether football, rugby, running, badminton, rowing, surfing, trampolining, Irish dancing) and living lives transformed by grace. And it shows.

Guys, thanks for the encouragement and the banter this year. Let's keep at it!

Remember: the gospel of grace is your true identity and your answer to every question.

:-)

[info on CIS: here]

Not Just the Transfer Window

2008-05-27T10:37:00.004+01:00

The football season's finished. No more footy til August (I'm not counting Euro 2008 cos we're not there) So it must be time for me to outline my preferred transfer targets for Spurs.
I'm really excited about this sumer's potential transfers - it could genuinely be a brilliant time!!

Here's what I think we need...

1 goalkeeper (not really fussed who - just someone who can catch crosses and stop shots)
1 centre back - at least (as cover for our injury-prone duo. Again, there's not too many excellent players available. Maybe Richard Dunne?)
3 midfielders - left wing, defensive and right wing (David Bentley would be brilliant. Someone like Jimmy Bullard in the centre)
1 or 2 centre forwards (David Villa is compulsory)

So, nothing too difficult for Mr Ramos. 7 new first team players.

Happy shopping!

Not Just Frustrated

2008-05-12T16:37:00.001+01:00

Dundee Utd get robbed.

Thanks ref. Thanks a lot...

Referee Mike McCurry has admitted that he was wrong not to award a penalty and to disallow a goal for Dundee United in their 3-1 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox.
The defeat ended United's hopes of clinching a Uefa Cup place. (BBC)
article here

Not Just a Book Plug

2008-05-02T16:20:00.003+01:00

The greatest set of book plugs ever.

"These markings are actually English words..."
"Don't do that - eat it out!"

Enjoy. And for goodness sake buy!

(HT: Bish [among others])

Not Just a Single's Night

2008-04-30T09:49:00.001+01:00

Well done Swansea!
We never did this in the library I worked in...

Single's Night (BBC)

Not Just a Single

2008-04-30T09:42:00.005+01:00

Just listened to Coldplay's NEW SINGLE (you can download it for free here)

No idea what it's about (!) but I like it.
"If you love me, won't you let me know."
"If you love me, why'd you let me go?"

I love Coldplay - ever since I got to see them in Chicago Theatre in 2001. So I'm dead excited about this song and album and free concerts in June.

Welcome back boys! I've missed you

Not Just a Sunday

2008-04-23T09:32:00.003+01:00

If you're a Christian and you work then you're a Christian worker.
And you need to listen to this:

Tim Keller - Work and Rest
[It's about the Sabbath and how to enjoy it]

I'm getting to be a huge fan of Tim Keller, a pastor in New York city. I've enjoyed listening to his sermons - they're clear, challenging, encouraging and exciting. And all because he loves the gospel and applies it to life.
If I had a seal with the word "approval" on it, I'd take a photo of it and send it to him...

Not Just a Clip

2008-04-22T10:20:00.003+01:00

I know you all hang on my every word, so here's a little clip that I find hilarious (and serious?!) to keep you going until I post properly - hopefully in the next couple of days...

Not Just a Conference

2008-03-27T11:23:00.005+01:00

We returned back from Austria on Tuesday - 50 UCCF students and staff joined 2000 more from all over Europe in Linz for a week at the IFES European Evangelism Conference: 'Because of Love.'

Highlights list...

the singing was excellent. A Dutch group led us to worship a big God! Great songs included Oh to see the dawn, Speak O Lord and This is the day (which we got to sing in loads of languages!)
Catching up with old friends: including Adam (Lithuania); Jo, Jesus and Joel (Spain); Catrin (Dublin); Tom (Paris); Una (Belgium); Jonathan (the bookstall king!) plus meeting a whole load of Dutch students, who accounted for nearly 1/4 of the conference!!
Meeting the UK students and seeing them enjoying IFES and want to take their enthusiasm back home
Hanging out with the UCCF Staff (not something we get to do as often as you might think)
Becky Pippert reminding us of the gospel of grace
Hearing of the cost of following Jesus in countries like Turkey and Belarus

There are more, but here's the big one...

On the very last night, after the main meeting, students and staff from Serbia and Hungary joined together in one joyful group to sing and pray to the Lord.
Here's a bit of the background: BBC website

As they sang 'Lord I liftyour name on high' we reflected on the great power of the gospel to change us. God's gospel is bigger than nationalities. It's bigger than cultures.

In Christ there is no Jew or Gentile / Serb or Albanian / English or Welsh (!).
We are ALL in Jesus.

What a witness to the Truth of the gospel when people who should hate each other unite, love, hug, sing and pray because the Triune God has saved them from death.

How can anyone say the gospel isn't relevant today?
Why don't we react when Christians separate from each other?

Not Just Funny

2008-03-05T17:18:00.004+01:00

Great hat-related comedy from a proper legend who himself wore a brilliant hat...

This is the link: HATS

Not Just a Book

2008-03-04T15:14:00.004+01:00

There's a new Welsh Encyclopaedia. I can imagine your relief.

I read a review in the Times on Saturday - it actually sounds like an interesting collection of facts etc. but it does seem as if this version sums up the country pretty accurately...
(whole aticle here)

The original version was published in the 1870s: 10 volumes, over 100 clergymen contributed. "Its entry on God was 17 pages."

This 2008 version: 1 volume. No clergy. "There is no entry on God."

For more info: http://www.academi.org/gwyddoniadur (don't worry, there is an English translation site!)

PS for more info on the Welsh, if BBC iplayer still have it, check out 'Rob Brydon: Identity Crisis.' I really enjoyed the program on BBC4. Fascinating insight into being Welsh.

Not Just a Beer

2008-03-04T15:03:00.004+01:00

You may remember a while ago my consternation at Staples offering to cut some of my photocopies up for 10p per sheet.

Here's my latest price-shock: last night I was coming back from Wrexham on the train. Got to Chester and my train to Bangor was cancelled. I had an hour and a half to kill. So I went wandering...

I happened upon a nice-looking pub. In truth it was a bit posh: Old Harkers Arms.
I have no idea who Harker was, what his age was or why his arms should interest me.
But here's the thing. I ordered a pint of Hoegaarden. A lovely Belgian beer.

It cost £3.80.

Now, is it me being Scottish, and being around students too long, or is that an obscene price??!

What's the world coming to?

Not Just Results

2008-02-24T23:36:00.003+01:00

The big one: Spurs 2-1 Chelsea. Thoroughly deserved too!! :-)

Other scores were a mixed bag...
Scotland 13-34 Ireland
Worcester Rugby 11-12 London Irish
Worcester City 1-3 Hyde
Dundee Utd 0 -0 Falkirk
Huntly 4-2 Fraserburgh

Thank you for your support...

Not Just a Weekend (PS)

2008-02-22T12:56:00.002+01:00

Also...

Worcester City v. Hyde

Dundee Utd v. Motherwell

Huntly v. Fraserburgh

:-)

Not Just a Weekend

2008-02-22T10:33:00.005+01:00

Good luck this weekend to all my boys...

Sp urs v. Chelsea (Sunday)
Scotland v. Ireland (Saturday)
Worcester v. London Irish (Friday)

Not Just an Auction

2008-02-21T10:44:00.003+01:00

Have a read about possibly the best auction ever! (BBC)

The Indian Premier League is a Twenty20 league that's starting in April - and it's a big deal with big bucks. Yesterday the league held an auction where each club bidded for whatever players they wanted: the footage is brilliant!
I can't wait for the league to start - it's gonna be so good!

MS Dhoni and Andrew Symonds were the most expensive - both going for over US$1 million!
Shaun Pollock is worth US$550,000 - which I think is a bargain!

I wonder if we should make all decisions like this: bid with your neighbours about what to eat for dinner (how much per broccoli piece?), with your coursemates about what degree to get, with local churches about who will preach this month.

Whatever the ethics, it would make for great telly!
And then ITV could do a version on ice...

Not Just a Ginger

2008-02-14T11:07:00.005+01:00

I've had a couple of favourite cricketers in my life / cricketing career * (delete as appropriate!)

One of them retired recently: Shaun Pollock.

Ok, so he's a ginger Christian too - that might explain something. But he was genuinely brilliant at cricket.
I modelled my bowling action on his. I tried to bat like he did. Clearly not to any level of success, but still, I thought he was great! SA's best all-rounder (although his uncle wasn't bad either!)

Here's a photo, and some stats:

108 Tests, 3781 runs, Highest Score 111, Ave 32.31. 421 Wickets, Ave 23.11, Economy 2.39

303 ODIs, 3519 runs, Highest Score 130, Ave 26.45. 393 Wickets, Ave 24.50, Economy 3.67

A sign at his last SA international: "Shaun Pollock: Giving ginger kids cred since 1995."

I, for one, am very grateful. Thanks Shaun!

Not Just a Rugby Weekend

2008-01-30T12:48:00.000+01:00

The 6 Nations: Welcome back!

Always a great time of year - the days might be short, the wind may be cold, but at least there's rugby on telly!

I'm backing Scotland to score at least one try (in the tournament!)

The coaches are beginning to announce their squads for round 1 and I've been surprised at all of them so far!

While it's great to see so many Ospreys players in the Wales team, how can Shanklin be on the bench? How can Sonny Parker start??

The same is true of Scotland - Chris Paterson, the most accurate goal-kicker in the WORLD, not starting??

Next thing you know there'll be an Englishman coaching the Scotland football team...

Not Just a New Year

2008-01-12T19:17:00.000+01:00

This time last year I was working for UWIC in Cardiff. I’d just moved campuses to Llandaff library.

Now, I live in North Wales and work for Christian Unions.

New job. New location. New friends (almost). New accent. New language (!) New take-aways. New roads. New views. New church.

Same God. Same gospel. Same grace.

There are loads of things I’m looking forward to in 2008:

- The US elections (what do you expect from an American Studies grad?!)
- New movies – Batman, James Bond, Indiana Jones, Incredible Hulk, Prince Caspian
- New studies (I’m hoping to enrol on a creative writing course in Bangor)
- New CU student leaders
- Spurs being good again (seriously)
- Going on a Summer Team

But the things I’m most looking forward to are the things I don’t know about yet.

I had no idea that 2007 would be the year I moved from South Wales.
I had no idea that 2007 would be the year I started working for UCCF.
I had no idea that 2007 would be the year I joined a gym.

So 2008. I welcome you.

Father in heaven, may 2008 be another year in which you change me to be more like your Son.

Not Just a Quote

2008-01-05T14:30:00.000+01:00

This is John Owen ------------------------------------>

I've just finished reading about him in 'Contending for our All' by John Piper.

Here is something Owen said which challenged me:

"A man preacheth that sermon only well unto others which preacheth itself in his own soul. And he that doth not feed on and thrive in the digestion of the food which he provides for others will scarce make it savoury unto them.
He knows not but the food he hath provided may be poison, unless he really tasted of it himself. If the word do not dwell with power in us, it will not pass with power from us."

Words come easy: how easy it is for me to point people to purity, excitement for the gospel and love of Christ while feeling none myself. While not even pursuing Him myself.

Not Just an Interview

2008-01-04T23:36:00.000+01:00

Can you imagine eavesdropping on a chat between Ricky Gervais and the Archbishop of Canterbury?

Imagine no more: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJosQdY6P_A

It's a clip (video and audio) from Simon Mayo's show on 5Live.

I think Ricky pretty much sums up our country's views on religion.
Sadly, I think Rowan does too.

Not Just a TV show

2008-01-04T19:20:00.001+01:00

I've just watched the last 2 episodes of Robin Hood on BBC iplayer.
I've really enjoyed both series - and what an ending!!

Here's my favourite line from the whole thing:

Marian: If you go along with treason then you are commiting treason
Alan: Rubbish! If you go along with farting, doesn't mean you've farted yourself does it!

Profound words...

Marian's split-second look of dismay is priceless!!

[If you download the episode, this line is just after the 7 minute mark]

Not Just a Look-a-like

2008-01-02T13:10:00.001+01:00

Stan Laurel ... ... ... Rob Howley

Not Just a Look-a-like

2008-01-02T11:52:00.000+01:00

Michael Owen (WRU) ... ... ... Steffan Jones (UCCF)

Not Just a Look-a-like

2008-01-02T11:38:00.001+01:00

Gene Hackman.........
Luiz Felipe Scolari

"There's trouble in Russia"

Not Just a Look-a-like

2008-01-02T11:32:00.000+01:00

Michael Ballack ... ... ... Matt Damon

"How d'ya like them apples?"

Not Just a Movie / Book

2007-12-20T15:54:00.000+01:00

Finally went to see 'The Golden Compass' last night. I say "finally" because I've been looking forward to seeing it for just over a year!

And here's my expert, long-awaited opinion... ... ... it's ok.

I mean that sincerely in every way!
As a movie, it was "ok"
The acting was "ok"
The story was "ok"
The directing was "ok"

Most reviews of the movie have been leukwarm, except the Christian ones which have tended to play-up the brilliantness of it. (I wonder if they think that that eases the shock of slating the book's message)

If you asked me last week to summarise the book I'd have explained exactly what has appeared in the movie.
I'd struggle to talk about the movie without having the book in mind. I can't work out if the film makes sense without having read the book (any ideas?)
It's a pretty good overview of the main story-line, but lacks the depth of the book (frustratingly more than it should)

The thing is, as a movie of a book that I love, it's at least 30 minutes too short.
There's loads of story that it misses out, small explanations about Dust, Freedom, the Authority, the Fall, Original Sin - all of which are major bus stops in Pullman's World. I'm unsure whether it's a film I'd do a talk about - the book, definitely. But the film is vague (unless you know the book)

I can't decide if I want the sequel to be made - I'd like it to be done well, but perhaps it's best if Pullman's agenda gets cut.

2 more things to say:

I had 2 favourite scenes - the big fight between the two panserbjornes (jaw-dropping! bosh!) and when Lyra undergoes intercision (incredibly painful to watch)

Finally, on the way back in the car we (Kent, Steff Job and me) agreed that we never got into the movie. Perhaps it just wasn't that good a film. Or, we wondered, perhaps the Holy Spirit was working.

Praise God that He has written a Story. A story with a rescue. A better story that ends with true freedom, true life.

Not Just a Look-a-like

2007-12-19T16:00:00.001+01:00

Mark Driscoll ............ Dom Joly

"HELLO?!! I'm in church!"

Not Just a Movie / Book

2007-12-06T11:47:00.000+01:00

The Golden Compass.
Philip Pullman.

Names to strike fear in the hearts of Christians? (especially parents??)

As writers go, Pullman is brilliant. Really brilliant. (I'm gonna try and get to some of his classes in Bangor Uni when he teaches here)

The problem is that his books are about "killing God."

Should we be scared? Should we boycott the movie and books?
I don't think so.

Go read the books, watch the movie(s). Understand what's going on in the books, engage with Pullman's ideas and views, be able to talk with friends and assure them that Christianity is about Jesus.

Have a read of this article by Al Mohler. It's really helpful (although does reveal what happens!!)

"This movie does represent a great challenge, but a challenge that Christians should always be ready to meet."

Mohler says we need to answer a story with a Story...

Pullman writes a great story. But ours is better!

Not Just a Football Match

2007-11-29T17:55:00.000+01:00

This reminds me of Swansea CU FC training sessions from a few years ago. Except we never wore goggles...

Not Just for Men

2007-11-01T19:42:00.000+01:00

The talks from the recent North Wales Men's Convention are now online. For free!

The Power of the cross. Hold Fast.

NorthWalesMensConvention

Not Just a Motto

2007-10-30T17:41:00.000+01:00

At the risk of giving the wrong impression, here's a great saying from the all-you-can-eat-Chinese buffet I went to last night...

"Enjoy Living. Enjoy Eating. Enjoy Buffet."

Not Just being naughty

2007-10-10T21:17:00.000+01:00

I started reading a book today on the train to Wrexham: Adolphe Monod's 'Farewell.'
I can't remember where I saw it recommended, but I managed to snag it from Amazon.

'Farewell' is a minister's last months of life on this earth. As his earthly tent began to be dismantled, he spoke each week to a small gathering at his bedside. His words were remembered and written down in this book.

Someone's last, dying words always seem to be important don't they?

Here is what I read this morning...

"We find written in the Bible these words (Titus 3:3):
'For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.'
For a long time it was impossible for me to accept this statement, which seemed to me to be quite manifestly an exaggeration...
...(However) I am sure that when this veil of flesh is laid aside I shall recognise that this passage of Scripture was the most faithful and LIFELIKE PORTRAIT OF MY HEART that could ever be painted."

May God reveal to us our sin.

And as He does so, may He remind us of His GOSPEL (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Not Just an Excuse

2007-10-05T14:54:00.001+01:00

"It's both healthy and elegant to eat a kebab at any time of the day."
(Poster at the kebab shop round the corner from me)

As if I need a reason...

more Not Just a Novel

2007-10-05T14:04:00.001+01:00

'A Series of Unfortunate Events' by Lemony Snicket.
'Alex Rider' series by Anthony Horowitz.
'The Power of Five' series by Anthony Horowitz.
'His Dark Materials' by Philip Pullman.
'Artemis Fowl' series by Eoin Colfer.

There are quite a few similarities between this pile of books that I've read.

In terms of fiction, they are all a joy to read. Reading each book was simply FUN! I couldn't wait to start the next one.
They are exciting, full of action, pacy, jumping from action scene to action scene. When you can picture what's going on in your head you know it's a good book.

Quite interestingly though (at least to me) was that all of these books are about kids with no parents.
Either the heroes are orphans, or their parents are distant.
Adults in each of these books are rubbish - they're powerless, ignorant, or bad.

For example, the Beaudelaire orphans travel from disaster to disaster as they escape the clutches of their evil uncle Count Olaf. The police are useless. Adults are untrustworthy. The Orphans fend for themselves.

Alex Rider is manipulated by MI5.

Lyra and Will try and save the world, unsure of which adults are good.

Artemis Fowl schemes in secret; his father is dead, his mother mad.

This is in each book: trust yourself. Adults let you down all the time. They don't understand. They don't care.

I think it's an interesting commentary on families.
Admittedly not a revolutionary thought. But how does that fit with what the gospel says about family? And parenting? And being a child of your parents - no matter how distant they are?

Where are the strong, heroic parents/adults in kids fiction?
Where are they in ADULT books?
Where are they in real life??

Next time: kids books and how they tackle God...

Not Just a Novel

2007-10-04T09:50:00.000+01:00

In my spare time, in between series of The West Wing with Martin Sheen, I enjoy reading.
I never really used to ENJOY reading before. I'd do it for uni, I'd read Christian books and be challenged but ENJOYMENT was never a motivation.

Until I started reading fiction! Seriously.
It all started with 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' by Lemony Snicket. (Book 1)
What a brilliant, brilliant series of books.
From that moment on, whenever I visit Waterstones (other bookshops are available) I head straight to the 8-12s section.

Perhaps I've found my natural mental age...

I love kids' novels. They're full of story. Imagination. And issues. Real issues.

I struggle with 'adult' fiction because it seems as if the authors are just trying to be clever. It's not about the STORY as much as how it's told. And how long the words are.

But books for kids actually say something.

I'll tell you what I think they say in the next few posts.

But here's the important bit: we need to know and understand what the 'next generation' are thinking.
How are they going to view themselves and the world around them when they leave school?
What are their influences? Who are their heroes? What are they hearing? Where do they go for counsel?

The 8-12s section in Waterstones can tell us.

Not Just a Long Time

2007-10-01T12:03:00.000+01:00

Ok, so it's been ages since I last posted anything.

It's been ages since I had any thoughts of note! I think I've been enjoying West Wing Season 2 too much!

But there'll be some blog action soon (possibly on some novels), so thank you for waiting...

Still the best team

2007-07-27T09:23:00.000+01:00

Well we lost. But only just.

Still the best team in the world!!

Best Team in the World...

2007-07-26T12:36:00.000+01:00

Dundee Utd or Barcelona

We'll find out tonight...

Not Just a Mission

2007-07-26T11:43:00.000+01:00

"Offer Christ to the people; offer grace to the people: that is our calling." Lindsay Brown
(HT: Rosemary in Canada)

Where will you go?

IFES (world)
UCCF (UK)
LKSB (Lithuania)

Not Just a Promise

2007-07-26T11:21:00.000+01:00

Am I glad about THIS!

Not Just a Weekend

2007-07-23T11:11:00.000+01:00

What a ridiculous few days!

All I saw from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon was...

Problem was that for half of that time I was stuck in a transit van!

This is what happened: I left Cardiff on Friday evening in good spirits. With the help of David Walker I'd managed to pack a hired transit van with all my belongings to move them up to Bangor.

Cardiff - Leominster was fine. Then we got diverted through some lovely, but tiny, villages. And it was wet.

So there I was, merrily chugging along through some flood water. And suddenly I stopped.
3 feet of water lapping around the bottom of the door. Gutted.

Eventually I was pulled out of the large 'puddle' onto the side of the road. Here I stayed waiting to be rescued by the AA.

They got to me at 09.30 am on Saturday (yes, that does mean I slept in the van all night!)

I was towed to a safe place: Travelodge and Little Chef (safe, but clearly not cheap!)

After finding out I couldn't get back to Cardiff that day I managed to squeeze into the Travelodge for the night.
A bed. Hooray!

So I eventually get towed back to Cardiff and arrive late Sunday afternoon.

That was my weekend. I didn't make it to Bangor (although, thanks to my Dad and brother-in-law, my stuff did).

I'll be trying again this time next week when I move for real.

Now, where's the number for that Travelodge...

Not Just Racism

2007-07-19T16:20:00.000+01:00

16:00pm today. BBC Cricket website...

From Peter Mears: "Re the Harry Potter stuff. What a ridiculous concept! Unbelievably far-fetched. Who ever heard of a ginger kid with two friends?"

Not Just a Quote

2007-07-18T14:28:00.000+01:00

"When the heart has been made black with sin, GRACE makes the face red with blushing"

Thomas Watson
'The Doctrine of Repentance'
["The fourth ingredient in repentance is shame..."]

Not Just a Holiday

2007-07-18T10:24:00.001+01:00

9 Brits. Camping. In Lithuania.
Doesn't sound much does it?

Well, let me tell you, the week was FANTASTIC!

Loads of reasons why:

So much laughter, so many jokes, so much Lithuanian slang (Kaip yra?), so many songs, so much dancing like a fool, so many games, so many frogs, so many new friends...

But the main thing was God. (surprising eh?!)

I'll be honest - I didn't start the week in the best of moods. A few weeks of tiredness and not really having a clue about what was going on in my head don't add up to a good number. So I travelled on the Saturday, looking forward to just getting through the week.

I needed something to happen to me. I needed changing. (not that kind of changing.)

In Church on Sunday morning we read Psalm 40.

And the week changed.

I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. (Psalm 40:1-3)

A reminder of what I needed. What I must pray for. A "new song" to sing.

"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God." (Psalm 42)

Throughout the week I was given opportunities to praise God. To see Him at work in me, in British students, in Lithuanian students.

Like the non-Christians who came to the camp because their friend went last year and told them to come.
Like the guy who explained the gospel to himself 3 times in English (!)
Like the girl who began to understand justification for the first time.
Like the way the Debate was conducted.
Like the way that the students really care for each other.

THAT'S really why last week was brilliant.

I'm sorry for starting the week like an idiot. I'm sorry for having no joy.

But I'm grateful for the bucket loads of fun.
I'm grateful for the British Team who all got stuck in.
I'm grateful for the Lithuanian Staff for the encouragement and excitement at their work.
I'm grateful for the Lithuanian students for their friendship and patience.

Thank you Lord. May I keep singing...

Not Just a Summer Team

2007-07-17T09:39:00.001+01:00

Here is the best Summer Team. Ever.

A proper 'report' on our shenigans in Lithuania will come this week...

Thank you for praying for us!

Not Just a Holiday

2007-07-06T10:46:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow, there will be a group of British students on a plane to Lithuania.
We won't be going to rest. We'll be going to work.
We won't be staying in hotels. We'll be going camping.

But we are going to have fun!

10 people - 8 students, Heledd Job (Swansea staff worker) and me - are joining the Lithuanian Student Movement.

There'll be morning talks on Mark's Gospel, Bible studies on Mark's Gospel, English language classes, Lithuanian language classes (!), games, swimming, walking, singing. And so much more!

Please pray for us!
Pray for travel safety. Pray for good weather. Pray for good relationships. Pray for good health. Pray for conversions.

We'll post photos when we get back.

:-)

Not Just for Couples

2007-07-02T09:55:00.000+01:00

There's a new book on the horizon (actually there are loads, but I'm gonna mention just this one)

It's called: 'When Sinners Say "I Do": Discovering the Power of the Gospel for Marriage'
[HT: Justin Taylor)

The preface is really good!

Now, I'm not married. I'm not dating anyone. I'm single.
But I want to read this book.

Here's why: I don't want to 'work out' God's view on dating and marriage while I'm dating or are married.
The time to read, think, pray, decide is actually NOW so that when, maybe, I do date/marry my convictions are already in place.

In previous dating relationships I've not had a clue what was going on (!) so I tended to waft around with no courage, certainty or clear aims/boundaries. And that's not good.

What does a godly relationship look like? Who should I look for? What would be good to study together? How should we resolve problems?
WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES THE GOSPEL MAKE?

"Hit the ground running." That's what I always say.

[Great quote - Martin: "How should a minister keep his heart, mind, and will from theological error?" Mark Dever: "I would encourage a man to marry a woman who loves the Lord as much or more than he does, and to stay in the Word."]

[If you want to start thinking about godly relationships head to BOUNDLESS. I've found it a brilliant resource of articles and proper advice.]

Not Just an Email

2007-07-02T09:11:00.001+01:00

I received the following email this morning...

Thank you for registering for Spice Girls Tickets.

We are so excited about being on tour again and really hope you are one of the lucky ones who get to come and see us!

Remember to keep checking www.thespicegirls.com for updates and we may even be adding other dates to the tour!

Lots of love
Emma x Geri x Mel B x Melanie C x Victoria x

What a great start to my birthday!!

Girls, I'll see you in Bangor for your tour opener :-)

Not Even a Church

2007-06-28T10:33:00.000+01:00

Last night I watched a Channel 4 program called "Keith Allen will burn in hell."

Here's a photo of Keith, in the centre, being attacked by Jonathan Bennett (and I assume his Relay workers)...

The show was infuriating and fascinating all at once. Keith visited the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas. These are the guys and girls who celebrate the deaths of US soldiers (among others) because it is God's righteous judgment on a sin-loving, gay-loving country. [There is more, but I won't be talking about it here]

It was fascinating to see Keith Allen react against having the Bible quoted or trusted. It was interesting to see how the Westboro crowd got themselves noticed on TV.

It was infuriating because they went around condemning everyone except themselves. It was horrible because they had no love for their neighbour. It was upsetting because they kept explaining the gospel - they talked about having to repent from sin, trust Jesus, be forgiven by Jesus' death.

And therein lies the problem - you see, they got it right. They know the gospel. They know that the gospel affects all of life. But how can they be so wrong on how it affects life?

I'm saved because of the gospel. I'm saved because God has saved me. I'm saved by grace. The cross says horrible things about me - it says I'm a sinner. I'm a rebel. I hate God. There's nothing bad you can say about me that hasn't already been said by the cross. But God has saved me ...

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Can I say I'm better than you? Can I say I'm 'less of a sinner' than a homosexual? Do I deserve God more than a prostitute does?

The gospel is all about GRACE. If my life isn't all about GRACE, then I haven't really grasped the gospel.

Not Just an Athlete

2007-06-27T11:03:00.000+01:00

Who's your favourite triple-jumper?

We all love the same guy...

I read The Times newspaper this morning, and as always started at the back.

A few pages in, I couldn't believe what I read: "‘I have never been happier’ says the man who won gold but lost God." Surely not, I thought.

Sadly, this is true. Jonathan Edwards doesn't believe in God anymore. It's really sad when anyone turns their back on God, famous or not.

Two interesting things Edwards says:
"When you think about it rationally, it does seem incredibly improbable that there is a God."
"I was always dismissive of sports psychology when I was competing, but I now realise that my belief in God was sports psychology in all but name."

In other words, Christianity really is a crutch for the weak in mind or body. We need something to believe in - doesn't matter what. Might as well be god. Or waffles (watch: 'Stranger Than Fiction.')

Jonathan, please come back. Jesus satisfies the punishment for your sin, not your curiosity. Life makes no sense without HIM, not athletics.

The challenge is: how central is Jesus to MY identity? If I lose my job, friends, family will I still go to the God of everything?

Not Just Racism

2007-06-19T12:29:00.000+01:00

http://www.gingerkids.org/

A top-quality resource.

Not Just a Quote

2007-06-19T11:57:00.000+01:00

"There is nothing more profound than waking on a Sunday morning with the heartbeat of a sermon pounding loudly within you. There is nothing worse than feeling a ‘lightness’ about the task you’re about to perform."
(Unashamed Workman)

This guy Colin's blog is great. Really helpful resources for studying and explaining the Bible properly (specifically preaching)
My favourite bit is the 'Toolbox' on Saturdays - a pile of links, articles, mp3s, sermons, books...

2 Timothy 2:15 - "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."

Let's get on with it...

Not Just a Book

2007-06-14T10:01:00.000+01:00

Want a review of a Christian book?

DISCERNING READER

Not Just a Birthday

2007-06-13T15:49:00.000+01:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!