This semseter at university, I have started using some Bible study books, which I bought at Keswick in 2010. The first is called 'Grace People' and is all about living and being rooted in God's covenant love. This blog post is the rest of one of the challenges layed down at the end of a chapter.
How far has my relationship with Christ grown in the last twelve months?
Between January and August 2010, I volunteered full time with Scripture Union in the North East and Yorkshire. During those eight months there was several key moments when I felt that my relationship with Christ became closer.
Firstly in March, my mum was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, this was a horrible time in our house. I was out full time working, so Dad and Mum had to pull together to see her through the treatment. I felt guilty for not being there as often as I would have liked. But with hindsight, I feel that this brought mum and dad closer together, they faced the struggles as a team united with one head, Christ. I was so encouraged by the constant love and support friends and family were showing us. People brought food, stayed for an hour or so, chatted, laughed, cried, I was struck by the imperfect image of the body of Christ pulling together to make the best of a bad situation, which God used for His glory. Mum has returned to work, she is on the mend, her illness has allowed us all the opportunity to grow closer to the Lord, in pray and thanksgiving.
The Second occasion when I came closer to God was at Spring Harvest last Easter, specifically as part of the X:site 8-11s childrens programme. This week has given me life long friends, I was able to share in one girl's wedding, I have laughed, and cried in the presence of some of the lovliest people I have ever met. It is a joy and a privelige to pray with Christians, to have a bond in our Lord, which goes on.
Thirdly, Keswick 2010 was an amazing three weeks. The theme of Christ Centred Renewal was highly appropriate for me and my family. I was blessed to again serve as part of a fantastic team. To build up friendships and meet some very special people.
Looking back over my time with Scripture Union, I can see that God has used me in his plan, I have grown in my love and faith. I gave a year of my life to serve him 'full time' and his blessings have been poured out.
At University, I am living with 'not-yet christians' which is a challenge. To live everyday with the integrity that Christ deserves is rather difficult, but with a daily asking for mercy and forgiveness, we're getting there, slowly but surely.
Friday, 28 January 2011
Monday, 10 January 2011
A God Given Purpose...2011
It has been a while since I last posted here, but today seems like a super opportunity to share what God has been doing with me in recent weeks, espeically in the light of this morning's WordLive Bible readings.
In November, my last post, I was relatively positive about why God had put me in Edinburgh. But over the last few weeks, this has become even more clear.
Shortly before I went home for Christmas, I was asked to become the new president of Queen Margaret University Christian Union. I was amazed, scared, and felt this huge sense of responsibility on my shoulders...I was being asked to lead the Christians Union. And how did God guide my thoughts in the following weeks? Well, 1 Timothy 3 came up in two different, unrelated conversations, on two consecutive days. I had chats with several close friends, and at the end of the week was really aware that this was something which I could not run from...I wasn't going to do a Jonah, and run away, I couldn't do a Jeremiah, and say I was too young. I accepted the responsibility, tentatively.
As a university Christian Union, we will be working closely with UCCF:The Christian Unions, and on Christmas Night I chatted and debated with my sister and brother in law through UCCF's Doctrinal basis, (I recommed you take a look and see what you think).
So, chatting through all the points, and the slipper fits...I agree and can sign up to them! (Another confirmation)
And then today, 10th January 2011, I read 31st December's WordLive reflection based on Matthew 4:12-25, which was entitled Embryonic New Family...and talked about the calling of the disciples. The first page, pause and reflect, had the following words... "A new light is about to dawn, and new calling to follow...are you ready for what Jesus has in store for you next?'
AMAZING.
This has been a mad busy day, but pausing to reflect at the end of the day has turned into a real blessing...just thought I'd share this with you!
In November, my last post, I was relatively positive about why God had put me in Edinburgh. But over the last few weeks, this has become even more clear.
Shortly before I went home for Christmas, I was asked to become the new president of Queen Margaret University Christian Union. I was amazed, scared, and felt this huge sense of responsibility on my shoulders...I was being asked to lead the Christians Union. And how did God guide my thoughts in the following weeks? Well, 1 Timothy 3 came up in two different, unrelated conversations, on two consecutive days. I had chats with several close friends, and at the end of the week was really aware that this was something which I could not run from...I wasn't going to do a Jonah, and run away, I couldn't do a Jeremiah, and say I was too young. I accepted the responsibility, tentatively.
As a university Christian Union, we will be working closely with UCCF:The Christian Unions, and on Christmas Night I chatted and debated with my sister and brother in law through UCCF's Doctrinal basis, (I recommed you take a look and see what you think).
So, chatting through all the points, and the slipper fits...I agree and can sign up to them! (Another confirmation)
And then today, 10th January 2011, I read 31st December's WordLive reflection based on Matthew 4:12-25, which was entitled Embryonic New Family...and talked about the calling of the disciples. The first page, pause and reflect, had the following words... "A new light is about to dawn, and new calling to follow...are you ready for what Jesus has in store for you next?'
AMAZING.
This has been a mad busy day, but pausing to reflect at the end of the day has turned into a real blessing...just thought I'd share this with you!
Saturday, 6 November 2010
Why am I here?
If ever there was a question as to why I am studyring in Edinburgh rather than anywhere else, this question was clarified this week.
Firstly, yesterday was my first meeting as part of the Foolproof Theatre Company. It was a real sense of confirmation that God wanted Fiona, Jo and myself to meet and work together. I first met Fiona Stewart in the youth venue at Keswick 2009. She was interviewed on the stage at Late Nite, on the only evening that I attended the Late Nite programme. Afterwards, we exchanged details and then didn't have contact for another year, until September 2010. The work I am involved with is a mixture of acting, writing and improvising in an educational environment.
Secondly, because of my contact with Fiona Stewart, this morning at 847, I recieved a text message from a guy called Jason, who works for New Scottish Arts, with a view to doing an initial piece of acting work in their 2010 Christmas show, with the potential for future work. Incidently, the production takes place on the only Saturday evening that I am free between now an Christmas!
Thirdly, this morning's Bible Passage, Acts 13:46-14:7. Whilst reading, and asking God to speak to me, verse 47 hit me between the eyeballs...
47The Lord has given us this command,
"I have placed you here
as a light
for the Gentiles.
You are to take
the saving power of God
to people everywhere on earth."
This reading is the culmination of three highly significant events in a week of questioning what God has planned for me, and why He has me here at QMU.
The song that then came into my head is one of my least favourtie modern Christian songs...'Light of the World'
Firstly, yesterday was my first meeting as part of the Foolproof Theatre Company. It was a real sense of confirmation that God wanted Fiona, Jo and myself to meet and work together. I first met Fiona Stewart in the youth venue at Keswick 2009. She was interviewed on the stage at Late Nite, on the only evening that I attended the Late Nite programme. Afterwards, we exchanged details and then didn't have contact for another year, until September 2010. The work I am involved with is a mixture of acting, writing and improvising in an educational environment.
Secondly, because of my contact with Fiona Stewart, this morning at 847, I recieved a text message from a guy called Jason, who works for New Scottish Arts, with a view to doing an initial piece of acting work in their 2010 Christmas show, with the potential for future work. Incidently, the production takes place on the only Saturday evening that I am free between now an Christmas!
Thirdly, this morning's Bible Passage, Acts 13:46-14:7. Whilst reading, and asking God to speak to me, verse 47 hit me between the eyeballs...
47The Lord has given us this command,
"I have placed you here
as a light
for the Gentiles.
You are to take
the saving power of God
to people everywhere on earth."
This reading is the culmination of three highly significant events in a week of questioning what God has planned for me, and why He has me here at QMU.
The song that then came into my head is one of my least favourtie modern Christian songs...'Light of the World'
Friday, 5 November 2010
The Creation Covenant
I have been reading a chapter of a book this evening all about grace, this chapter is entitled The Creation Covenant. One of the challenges is to write list of the things that I can think of about my life as a created being and all the wonders and resources God has given world and on which I depend...so here goes.
The ability to laugh, the ability to cry, music, being abke to sing, play the piano, doodle, read books, chat with people, make cake, pray, act, grace, friends, the Lake District, Keswick, Scripture Union, university, friends, family, Jesus, church, the Bible, art, theatre, driving, drama, television, connectivity, clothes, food, water, drink, apple juice, orange and passion fruit J2O, percy pigs, Jesus, Holy Spirit, internet, running, cycling, rugby, brain, memory, grandparents, sister, girlfriend, photos, travel, money, golf, songwriters, my voice, my body, shoes to help me to walk, christian brothers and sisters, freedom to worship, good weather, fish and chips, trees, mountains, rivers, the beach, clouds, stars, rainbows, Stephi, hot chocolate, accountability, writing, novels, dvd box sets, telephone, boxers shorts, scarfs, hats, bed, home, heating, lights, Christmas, singing, spirituality.
The list could go on and on... all thigns that I have, all things that I need, all my work, studies, and hobbies, family and friends, are provided by the grace of God, and I am unbelievably grateful, but words cannot express.
The ability to laugh, the ability to cry, music, being abke to sing, play the piano, doodle, read books, chat with people, make cake, pray, act, grace, friends, the Lake District, Keswick, Scripture Union, university, friends, family, Jesus, church, the Bible, art, theatre, driving, drama, television, connectivity, clothes, food, water, drink, apple juice, orange and passion fruit J2O, percy pigs, Jesus, Holy Spirit, internet, running, cycling, rugby, brain, memory, grandparents, sister, girlfriend, photos, travel, money, golf, songwriters, my voice, my body, shoes to help me to walk, christian brothers and sisters, freedom to worship, good weather, fish and chips, trees, mountains, rivers, the beach, clouds, stars, rainbows, Stephi, hot chocolate, accountability, writing, novels, dvd box sets, telephone, boxers shorts, scarfs, hats, bed, home, heating, lights, Christmas, singing, spirituality.
The list could go on and on... all thigns that I have, all things that I need, all my work, studies, and hobbies, family and friends, are provided by the grace of God, and I am unbelievably grateful, but words cannot express.
Saturday, 23 October 2010
The Art of the Understudy
Last weekend I went home and was fortunate to have a £5 centre Stalls seat for 'Antony and Cleopatra' with the RSC. The role of Cleopatra was due to be played by Kathryn Hunter, who is a seasoned RSC performer, associate director and an Associate Artist of the RSC. She is a stalwart performer, and the week before gave a superb portrayal of Lear's Fool in King Lear. I was greatly anticipating seeing her take on Cleopatra.
http://www.rsc.org.uk/about-us/our-work/hunter.aspx
Imagine, therefore, my disappointment when an ASM came to centre stage and informed us that 'due to the indisposition of Miss Kathryn Hunter, the role of Cleopatra will be played by Miss Katy Stephens, with a script'. I felt so sorry for Katy, first of all she had to play a role that she hadn't had much experience playing, and secondly, the short notice meant that she had to have a script in hand. If Cleopatra were her track, and she had a script in hand, then I imagine that people would ask for refunds.
But, my word, at the interval I was blown away, and felt rather foolish. Despite having the script, Katy gave her all and pulled out a show stopping performance.
There was a few scenes which she even did without a script at all.
At the end of the play, she, understandably received a standing ovation. To have had to perform with such pressure piled on top was such a feat, and she achieved a great performance.
http://www.rsc.org.uk/about-us/ensemble/ensemble-biog-katy-stephens.aspx
The job of being an understudy is so demanding. I would not like to have to do it. To learn you track, and then to learn and rehearse two or three other tracks as well, and be ready to go on at a moments notice requires special talent. I do not think that we applaud understudies enough. They do a huge amount of work, and unfortunately seldom get to reap the harvest of their labours. Unless of course they get lucky, such performers as Kerry Ellis come to mind. Kerry was Martine McCutcheon's understudy for Eliza Doolittle in Trevor Nunn's 2001 production of 'My Fair Lady'. And this production has become infamous. McCutcheon was off so much that Ellis got several long stints in the title role. This paid off, and Ellis is now a star in her own right, having originated the role of Meat in 'We Will Rock You', and playing Elphaba in the phenomenally successful 'Wicked' on both sides of the atlantic.
Understudying is a tough gig, and not enough credit is given to those who pull the job off well.
http://www.rsc.org.uk/about-us/our-work/hunter.aspx
Imagine, therefore, my disappointment when an ASM came to centre stage and informed us that 'due to the indisposition of Miss Kathryn Hunter, the role of Cleopatra will be played by Miss Katy Stephens, with a script'. I felt so sorry for Katy, first of all she had to play a role that she hadn't had much experience playing, and secondly, the short notice meant that she had to have a script in hand. If Cleopatra were her track, and she had a script in hand, then I imagine that people would ask for refunds.
But, my word, at the interval I was blown away, and felt rather foolish. Despite having the script, Katy gave her all and pulled out a show stopping performance.
There was a few scenes which she even did without a script at all.
At the end of the play, she, understandably received a standing ovation. To have had to perform with such pressure piled on top was such a feat, and she achieved a great performance.
http://www.rsc.org.uk/about-us/ensemble/ensemble-biog-katy-stephens.aspx
The job of being an understudy is so demanding. I would not like to have to do it. To learn you track, and then to learn and rehearse two or three other tracks as well, and be ready to go on at a moments notice requires special talent. I do not think that we applaud understudies enough. They do a huge amount of work, and unfortunately seldom get to reap the harvest of their labours. Unless of course they get lucky, such performers as Kerry Ellis come to mind. Kerry was Martine McCutcheon's understudy for Eliza Doolittle in Trevor Nunn's 2001 production of 'My Fair Lady'. And this production has become infamous. McCutcheon was off so much that Ellis got several long stints in the title role. This paid off, and Ellis is now a star in her own right, having originated the role of Meat in 'We Will Rock You', and playing Elphaba in the phenomenally successful 'Wicked' on both sides of the atlantic.
Understudying is a tough gig, and not enough credit is given to those who pull the job off well.
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Robert Walter Potts
Grandpa died 19th October 2009. He was a sinner, who loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a forgiven sinner. He served his God, and now living in the eternal presence of his Lord and maker.
Why do I feel like crap? How selfish am I?! I miss him so much. I am sitting here typing, in a puddle of tears, my grief goes on, and always will do. I have no idea how my Gran deals with it. Every morning she wakes up...alone...but we're not alone. He lives!
We have a strong and certain hope
Fixed and unchanging not in vain
We have a friend in heaven's court
Since Jesus rose to life again
We have an anchor for the soul
Since Jesus' blood has made a way
Into the deepest heart of God
Before the Father's throne of grace
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
We have a King high over all
The new creation's firstborn Son
New heav'n and earth await his call
We shall be like him when he comes
We see him now in majesty
Enthroned above the galaxies
Until his glory burst the skies
And all creation joins the cry
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
I know he lives
I know he lives
Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 2008 Make Way Music
www.grahamkendrick.co.uk
My sorrow and sadness are nothing compared to the immeasurable greatness of My Lord.
I can't write anything more, I don't have words to type.
Why do I feel like crap? How selfish am I?! I miss him so much. I am sitting here typing, in a puddle of tears, my grief goes on, and always will do. I have no idea how my Gran deals with it. Every morning she wakes up...alone...but we're not alone. He lives!
We have a strong and certain hope
Fixed and unchanging not in vain
We have a friend in heaven's court
Since Jesus rose to life again
We have an anchor for the soul
Since Jesus' blood has made a way
Into the deepest heart of God
Before the Father's throne of grace
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
We have a King high over all
The new creation's firstborn Son
New heav'n and earth await his call
We shall be like him when he comes
We see him now in majesty
Enthroned above the galaxies
Until his glory burst the skies
And all creation joins the cry
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
Jesus is alive
And he reigns in glory now
I know he lives
And with him we'll rise
Hallelujah
I know he lives
I know he lives
I know he lives
Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 2008 Make Way Music
www.grahamkendrick.co.uk
My sorrow and sadness are nothing compared to the immeasurable greatness of My Lord.
I can't write anything more, I don't have words to type.
Sunday, 10 October 2010
Greater things...
This song is my song of today!
God of this city
Greater things have yet to come, and greater things are still to be done here!
God of this city
Greater things have yet to come, and greater things are still to be done here!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)