Billy's Place

Thank You!

2012-01-23T13:36:00.000Z

Well, the first entry for the year 2012! I want to begin this entry by stating a fact - "God is good and His love endures forever!" As I have time to reflect on the year past and move into this new year I can take strength from the way God has worked in my family and I give Him thanks for every blessing we have in Christ! As a father, I take joy in the efforts and choices my girls are making and on the occasions we get to talk intimately, I am thrilled to see evidence of their faith laced throughout their plans and life. Christ makes the difference. I look at my wife and continually thank God for her true beauty, our girls and I are blessed! So, as we gird up and anticipate a new year in the kingdom I am prayerful that God finds purpose and channel through our lives to proclaim to this world that in Christ there is LIFE!

Where to begin? There have already been occasions for my family to look hard at life and be confident that God is in control and that only in Him there is meaning and hope to life. We had the joy of having Patrick Boynes make a short visit to be with us. I have known Patrick for a while, predominantly through our efforts at Camp Tayside, and although I had great appreciation for him I was never able to spend much time getting to know him closer. It was a joy to be with him! He is a gentleman and through all the facial hair you can't help but notice his eyes. Patrick has such honesty and consideration in his eyes. I loved looking on around our dinner table as he would captivate Hannah and Holly with his quirky knowledge and ability to communicate beautifully with them. I have a special affection for adults who make an effort and give due consideration to young ones. Patrick did so much good for my family in the two short days he was with us! His constant expressions of faith and trust in God have left their mark on Fenella and I. Thank you Patrick!

I was provoked to give glory to God in light of those who continually provide financially for my family and make it possible for me to focus on ministry here in Peterhead. I do confess that I am not mindful enough of those who, I and sure at times sacrificially, give in order to support my family. I do tend to rest in the fact that God will do the blessing for your efforts. I do not make light of this and the truth is that there is an enduring sense of humility, knowing that people love God to the extent that they give above and beyond to help support my family. We also take great joy in the fact that God provides and He allows His people the joy of bestowing the gift :) Thank you all!!! With all this in mind I want to highlight the impact this has on my family's faith. Over the Christmas holidays we got a phone call from a couple telling us of their plan to send a gift of money for our ministry. I mentioned earlier about the humbling effects your generosity has on us, listen to this. This couple must love the kingdom dearly because the husband has, other than a couple of phone conversations, no experience of my family. His wife visited on campaign on a couple of occasions and has a bit more of an idea, but still, how do you account for abundant generosity, other than hearts that love the kingdom and more importantly love their God! Again, thank you to everyone who continues to be considerate of my family and the work of the kingdom here in Peterhead. Your gift of support is a tower of strength and a beacon of faith continually reminding us that our Father provides through His people.

I want to share another story of faith that is so near and dear to my family. Fenella's mum Alexa continues in her journey with cancer. I do not want to go into all the detail about treatment and the like, but want to focus on the important points and that being her faith. Alexa is a huge example to my family and her gentle spirit, although being tested to breaking point, continues to shine bright. There is no doubt that her impact in the lives of our girls is massive and there is no shortage of love and support for their Grandma. Alexa might not know the impact her gentle spirit is having on her granddaughter's, but in a kingdom sense it is absolutely priceless! I all this I have to mention Fenella's selfless pursuit of her mum's best interests. Fenella loves her mum and in light of this love is doing whatever it takes. Jackie continues to soldier on. It is not easy to handle the feeling of being powerless, when in a heartbeat you know he would do anything for his wife. He continues to make every effort to keep Alexa's spirits up and even though he spends most of his time in Alexa's "bad books" he is a devoted husband who loves his wife :) It goes without saying that we need your prayers and in the quietness of you reading this post, you may offer a prayer for Alexa's faith to sustain her as she journey's through this trying chapter of her life.

Let me just touch on some of the ministry happenings so far this year. The first Monday the kids were back in school we began with our primary age class! It was a most excellent new year beginning. The kids were excited to be back and there was a real atmosphere of joy in everything we did together. We shared a slide show of the last years togetherness. The class is growing and it is always good to see the signs that the kids are bringing their friends to something they themselves value enough to share - joy! We are excited for the term ahead pray that God's Spirit continues to find avenues to serve through the lives of all involved in the class, from the kids to the teens and to the adults! The same spirit continues into Wednesday and Friday nights. The same anticipation for being together is evident through all the ages. I want to make a mention of two of our older teens, Ryan and Donnie, who have impressed over the past weeks. I know we all have rough edges and stuff, but it is good to see evidence of maturity and in Ryan's case it is unmistakable. Donnie has only been coming a short time, but again I am so encouraged to see him investing time in church and building relationships with godly people, it shows courage and will be blessed. Both Ryan and Donnie have faithfully been coming on Sunday nights as well as on Wednesday and Friday's too. I know there are a bunch who deserve to be highlighted and it is impossible to mention everything, but it is refreshing to see that lives are being affected and are turning, however slowly and gradually, to acknowledge their maker and begin to lay a foundation for their faith.

The break over Christmas was good! I realised how relaxed and mellow I had become when everything started back and my mind had to jump back into gear and engage in preparing lessons and teaching classes. I have loved the material God has led me to these past weeks. It was my joy to be preaching last Sunday night and yesterday morning and on both occasions we looked at Christ. Last Sunday night as the Word in John 1:1, and His being the very reason for life and the only way for meaning and purpose to become real in our lives. Yesterday morning we looked at "Emmanuel," GOD the Creator desiring to be in a close relationship WITH those of US He created, who desire to come with nothing but the knowledge that WE NEED CHRIST! Isn't God Wonderful! Can I also share a lesson that made an impact last Friday night with the teens. We looked at the fruit of the Spirit and then looked at the parable of the Prodigal Son and in small groups identified the times when the various fruit were evident in the characters of Jesus teaching. It was really effective. I suppose it stands to reason that when Jesus is portraying the character of God in this parable, that of course the fruit of the Spirit being the essence of His nature, will be the obvious result.

I pray that this post has given you reason to praise God for His goodness and His faithfulness.

God bless!

Outstanding!

2011-12-19T17:21:00.000Z

I need to share some family news. Beth has been busy travelling up and down the length of the country from Glasgow to Manchester and down to London on two occasions. She has been auditioning for music Conservatoires. We are delighted to share that she has been offered places in Glasgow, Manchester and the Guildhall in London! Beth is an oboe player and going by the response from her auditions, she is outstanding! Beth has allowed the various audition boards a window into her musicality and infectious personality, qualities that Fenella and I have long admired. We are so very proud of Beth :) We will now begin the challenge of working things out to make the most of the opportunity she has been blessed with. I must confess, I am slightly overwhelmed, but I praise God for Beth's giftedness and pray for His constant hand to be with our daughter as she prepares to make big life choices.

There are so many positives from the past few weeks and there is so much evidence of the Spirit working in and around our church. I want to share what we have been up to with our ministry to teen and young adults. There is a real desire for teaching and for them to be inspired from God's Word. We have shared some effective lessons with the group. Our last couple focused on the need to follow in the footsteps of Christ even though it is HARD! We talked about a video clip I found from the movie, "Facing our Giants." I think, if I am honest, that I enjoyed the lesson more than the group did. The clip showed a coach encouraging his team captain to carry a team mate in a "Death Drawl" across the field. As the captain begins to tire the coaches encouragement gets louder and more determined, to the point that he is screaming to his captain not to give in and to keep on going! We all need people who care enough about us to keep us going in the right direction with the right encouragement and challenge. Is this not our purpose as fellow Christians, to know the goal and do everything in our power to encourage as many as possible to share the journey on the Way? I must mention something at this point that brought a lump to my throat. On my birthday (12th) Kirsty handed me a card and a gift. The gift was the movie, "Facing our Giants!" It was sooo thoughtful! As long as I'm being a bit sentimental, I must also mention my birthday cake at class on Monday night. Things have been a bit crazy lately and my birthday was filled with so many distractions and more important things to care for that when Wendy and the teens came through with the cake and candles etc... I was blown away - it was lovely! Anyway, back to the teens. On Wednesday night we went out to Aberdeen for the night with the group. There was a group of 28 of us! What a joy! Yes, my mind was in other places at times, but I was still able to observe and enjoy this group of young people who have the blessing of godly influence and example in their lives :) We went bowling first so that we could fellowship and have fun, next we went for food at Pizza Hut and finally went to a movie. We had the choice of either Happy Feet 2 or Puss in Boots. Both groups emerged having loved the feel good factor of the movies and there was a bit of healthy banter about which was better. I was kind of taken aback at how a group of 28 people were raving about a couple of cartoons. God is doing some great work in the lives of these kids and although we have our fair share of drama and over reacting at times, there is still plenty of evidence that God's Spirit is shaping some budding masterpieces :)

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.

His love endures forever."

Bruised, but not Broken

2011-12-19T09:48:00.000Z

This is an entry that I have been both looking forward to posting, and putting off at the same time. We have some amazing news to share and some that has been hard to bear and therefore not so easy to share. I want to start off with the good news of Sam's choice to commit her life to Christ! Sam is great and since we first met her at Jordan's baptism she has impacted my life for good. I remember the first couple of classes Sam came to after Jordan's baptism and the way she just slotted into the youth group as if she had always been there. There was a real sense of belonging and acceptance when Sam came amongst us and now that her life is complete and her heart is in the right hands we anticipate good things :) It was only a couple of weeks before that Sam's sister Kirsty became a Christian and while studying with Sam we talked about the impact God has had on their family and how things must have been turned upside down. I have to say that I have loved Helen's attitude to all this. Helen is Sam and Kirsty's mum. Helen has been coming along for a while now and like the girls I am sure thinks of us at church as family. Helen has a good heart and the more I see of her the more I like. Anyway, back to Sam! Alex-John made a comment on Sunday morning that I liked. He mentioned about Sam being in the baptistery ripping off the old tiles as we were doing the prep work to get it re-done in Fibre-Glass. The next time he heard of Sam it was that she was the first to be immersed in the new baptistery :) Sam is not slow to help out and on many occasions if I need help to tidy the building, Sam is there. When we were getting her service sorted out and we were talking about her favourite songs, Sam mentioned that she wanted "I am a "C" for when she comes up out of the water. My first reaction was of surprise, but as we reflected on the song and that in fact that is what Sam will be at that point my initial thought were turned around to thinking it was a great choice! On the Sunday night the atmosphere was special. There was a bunch of the teens and young adults there along with some of the congregation. Thomas opened in prayer and Jordan read a passage of scripture before I went up to speak. However, one of the highlights was Donald presiding. Sam had asked if "Uncle Donald" could start the night, although Donald was thrown into the deep end, his faith and joy at being asked made sure he did a grand job. I had the joy on Sunday morning of welcoming Sam into fellowship and sharing her first Lord's Supper with her new family :)

I need to make some mention of our ministry to the Primary school age children. We had our night out to "Glitter and Glaze" on Monday 5th December. It was such a lovely time! I have to say a huge thank you to Wendy who instructed and led the kids so beautifully. Watching the group of 18 children paint their Christmas mugs and chat to the others at their table was rather therapeutic and a total joy to be a part of. There was calm the whole time and when the kids got their finished glazed mugs the following week there was a real sense of joy and wonder as they saw their finished work. It was a great night and there is no doubt we will be back at some future date to put their creative flair into action again. Last Monday night we had our Christmas party for the Primary school children. This marked the last of our classes for this age group. It was a fitting end to the term :) We had a special visit from Santa and Frosty the Snowman. It is such a joy to see Monday nights in action. The group of teens we have helping are wonderful and really see the joy of serving the younger kids and ensuring they are blessed while with us. We had the joy of Wendy, Donald and Nina there to help too. We played and ate too much - the time just flew in and before we knew it 8.00pm had come. I have no doubt that God's hand in instrumental on Monday nights in both the impact the class has on the lives of the children and also the development of Christ-likeness in the lives of the helpers. I am anticipating a great 2012 with this group. When I was talking with some of the teens we were excited at the thought of the bunch of P7's who will be moving up to Friday nights next summer. God truly has blessed us with a spread of ages - Excited!

The title of this post mentioned being bruised. The reason for this is in regard to Fenella's mum Alexa. Anyone who has come in contact with Alexa will know how precious and truly lovely she is. Just over a month ago Alexa was given the news that she has cancer. I will not go into all the details, but I must mention how God is in the midst of everything. Alexa has undergone surgery and the affected tissue has been removed along with a sizable amount of surrounding tissue. Fenella has been there every step of the way and I am so touched by the way she cares for her mum and dad. Alexa has, by God's grace, come through the surgery extremely well and we are thankful that her spirits are high and she is her usual smiley and sparkly self. We are aware that this is the first stage in a journey that may take some time, but as for now we anticipate Alexa getting home soon and being surrounded by family and love. It is lovely that it's the Christmas season and all our girls will be home to share in some grandma pampering :) Faith is everything! We are well aware that our Father is over everything and we are leaning on His able arms throughout this journey. Strength is important, especially for Fenella and Jacky, so I would ask for your support and your prayers in their interests. I ask also for the prayers of the righteous in light of Alexa's need for her body to heal. Our God is able and we rest in His will.

God bless :)

Growth...

2011-11-24T10:17:00.001Z

I used an illustration recently about growth. It was centered on a conversation between an apple grower and a friend. The friend asks, "Show me a perfect apple." The farmer picks a small, green apple from the tree and hands it to his friend. The friend is surprised and expresses his confussion, "It is not red and I can't eat it yet!" The farmer responds, "For it's age and stage it is perfect!"

When I first heard this illustration a huge light buld went off in my head! When it comes to young Christians, we tend to look at them as they should be and not at the stage they are at. When we have been in Christ a number of years and our lives have been affected by the restructuring of God's will in our lives we can forget and be a little harsh on those who, for their age and stage, are growing perfectly.

It is with this in mind that I want to share this post. This, in reality should have preceeded my last entry, but the joy of what needed to be shared meant this one had to wait. However, how do you prioritise growth? Whether it's the early stages of developing belief and faith or maybe at the start of our new life in Christ or maybe seeing the evidence of faith lead to action and experssion in our life. Although we can't deny there is something beautiful and powerful about a new birth, there is something equally lovely in the continued witness to the development and character that comes from a life focused on God.

There are a few things to share that underline God's handiwork and show true growth in those who would "Draw near to Him." A couple of Sundays ago it was my turn to go up and support the Buckie Church. Fenella and the girls were not able to go and in light of this Fenella suggested that I take some of the teens up with me. Shaun, Thomas and Jordan all made the trip up with me and shared a day that will go down as one of my most memorable of 2011. We talked all the way up and the hour and twenty minute journey seemed so short.

When we got there and the boys met the congregation, I knew ir was going to be a good day. Bill Pirrie asked me, just as we were going to start the meeting, if the boys were Christains and if they would take part. My response was yes to both, thinking he was going to ask the boys if they would like to take part in the service. When it came time for the bible readings he called on Shaun to read the OT. Shaun walked up to the podium where there was a huge bible open at the text and read very confidently and clearly. He was reading from the KJV (not a translation he is accustomed to reading) and if i'm honest I don't think I could have read it as well as he did. Thomas and Jordan now realised that the chances are, one of them was going to be called up to read the NT and they made sure they had their own bibles ready! Jordan was called up to read and again did a great job (using his NIV). Thomas led a public prayer during the "Prayers of the Church" and like the others his words were heart felt. I am glad to say that I think the congregation were blessed as richly from the boys invovlvment than any message I could bring :)

We went to Bill and Eleanor Pirie's for lunch and enjoyed a fine time around the table. Eleanor commented that she loved the fact that she was taking clean plates back into the kitchen. I am glad the boys got to meet Bill and Eleanor, because they got to meet two faithfull giants of the Kingdom. I got to spend more time in the afternoon with the boys and shared with them one on my life's passions - ice cream! We met with the church in the early evening and went home knowing we had encouraged the brethren there :)

Another area I feel needs to be expressed is our bible study times on Wednesday and Friday nights. The effect of God's word and the influence of His Spirit is obvious. When I was studying with Kirsty and with Sam they both made reference to one lesson in particular. On Friday night we used a clip from the Australian X Factor, which did a profile on one of this years contestants Emanuelle Kelly. The lesson focused on our need to have something in our lives that help us overcome the brokeness and pain of the World. We looked at Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." We finished listening to Coldplay's, "Fix You."

Our focal verse these past weeks has been James 4:8, "Draw near to God and He will come close to you." We have been challenging the teens to make that conscious choice to give God some room in their thinking and their decission making and see if He does not come close to them. Sam, Kirsty and, I am confident a few others, have been making this verse reality :)

I want to make a comment about Shaun and Thomas and a decission that was made to make their faith more active in their daily lives. After a coffee with Shaun, where we talked about our football team, "Brothers in Arms," we were concious that the attitudes and conduct of our team was not always as good as it could be. Shaun and Thomas decided it would be a practice of the team to share a prayer before taking to the pitch to play our matches. The last two weeks Thomas has led the team in prayer before the game and I have to be honest and say that I am sooo proud of their example to the rest of the team, who are not Christian's yet, and showing their faith and dependance in God for all things.

One last bit of news I have to share in this post. Last Tuesday it was my joy to be in Longside school to teach their assembly. It was special because Mr Imlah, who was previously devoted to the children at Central School, is now the head of Longside School. I am always touched when I come in contact with Mr Imlah because his love for the children goes far beyond the normal realm of a teacher/student and it is obvious that he has a passion and gift in sharing and investing in the betterment and development of children. I suppose the truth is that there is a connection between us and this was made obvious when I was leaving the school after the assembly was done. I told Mr Imlah that I had huge respect for him and for the way he devotes himself to the Children and he responded with a similar gesture. We went our seperate ways with a lump in our throughts, not motivated by pride but for the common good.

OOPS! Almost forgot about the picture :) Lewis Emslie turned 13 last Friday night and took a birthday cake to share with the group - good times!

"The word of God is living and active!"

Kirsty's Journey :)

2011-11-24T09:07:00.001Z

It is always a joy to begin a post with outstanding news! As you can see from the pictures we have a new babe in Christ :) Kirsty is a lovely girl and has made the choice to "Draw close to God." Two Friday nights ago during our class, I was standing in line at the St Combs ice cream van, when I got the message that Kirsty was waiting to talk to me. As soon as I saw her face I knew the look of conviction in her eyes. We talked for a while about what had caused her heart to be cut and for her to make this cry for help. I say this every time, but when you get to see first hand a soul finding their way back the their Father it is humbling and beautiful! We arranged to meet the following Thursday to study and to make sure Kirsty was totally convinced she was ready to surrender her life to the King.

I got the chance to meet up for a coffee with Helen, Kirsty's mum and sister Sam. I needed to know that Kirsty's decision was going to find support from her family. Helen is great and it is obvious that in her life God is beginning to make His presence felt. Helen was most gracious and made it clear that she is happy about Kirsty's choice and would certainly be supportive in the new path she is choosing. After studying with Kirsty on the Thursday and sharing the joy of the journey to salvation it was settled that Kirsty would be baptised on the Sunday night. You only need to look at the photo of Kirsty stepping out of the water to know her life was now in good hands. We sang a few of her favorite songs, "Purify me Lord" and "Listen to our Hearts." I love the way that even the songs that meant something to Kirsty gives an insight to her heart.

We shared a little about people who had been influential in her path to this point. Donald was in the middle of the sea, fishing. He is an important figure in Kirsty's life. We all knew that Donald would have been a little sad at not being there, but we also knew that when he got the news of what Kirsty had just done, there would be floods of joy to overwhelm any sadness. Wendy, Jordan and Ethian have also been like an extended family and are important to Kirsty. I mentioned the power of our youth group and the importance of having friends sharing your journey. CJ and Megan Cowie have been good in sharing their faith and helping Kirsty. They were also present when we studied together and gave important insight into how Kirsty's commitment to Christ had already brought about evidence of repentance and turning towards God in her conduct as a friend and with her peers :)

Sunday night was special and I was treated to a precious memory and indicator that God is undeniably doing something mighty in our midst! I had gone into the kitchen for a moment and when I opened the door back through to the main hall I was faced with a truly beautiful sight; there were a bunch of our teens from the youth group seated around the baptistery, I didn't count but, probably a dozen or more. I could not stop myself from thinking - God Willing they might all come to the same place they had just witnessed Kirsty committing too.

I didn't mention about Kirsty's sister Sam. Sam has also began to, "Draw close to God." We have studied and anticipate that there will be good news soon in relation to Sam's journey of faith. When Sam and I were talking it became obvious how important church and her youth group had become to her. She told me about her first contact with the church, which was at Jordan's baptism, and how she feels so much at home when she comes on Wednesday's, Friday's and Sunday's. Sam is a genuine girl and I am so glad that God is beginning a good work in her life.

I have a bunch of stuff to share, but I feel I need to put them in a separate post. I do not want to distract you from this and the joy this one gives - it needs to stand alone :)

"God is Good and His love endures Forever!"

Consistancy is Key

2011-11-01T17:45:00.000Z

As I was thinking about what to share in this post it became clear to me that the content of my blogs often follow a similar structure. My first reaction was that my ministry is predictable and repetitive, but on reflection I think the better way to look at it is consistant. Although there are some slight shifts in my focus the core of my ministry remains true to what it was over 10 years ago. My heart is still very much focused on youth and outreach, but I am very concious that over time as some are committing their lives to Christ and now progressing into their late teens and early 20's, I have a natural connection and desire to continue mentoring and counciling as they grow. I love what God is doing here and anticipate continued growth for the kingdom.

It was last Sunday morning I was hit with a smack of awareness that things are moving in the right direction. During our Sunday morning worship Jordan Sutherland was doing the public bible reading for the first time and did an outstanding job. I had the joy of preaching that morning and was able to encourage the Brethren before my lesson with an overview of how the young Christains are growing and active in sharing their faith. A couple of weeks prior to Jordan's reading Thomas was up there to for the first time reading. Donald was up assisting at the table. Donald also led our closing prayer at our last men's meeting! I was also able to mention all the work our teens are doing behind the scenes in our classes and that C.J and Megan Cowie are now teaching the P1 to 3's class on a Wednesday night! Shaun continues to show great desire for the Word and always has spiritually charged points during our lesson times with the youth. This brings joy to our church and screams that God is working in their lives.

My work with the schools has continued to be a source of purpose for me. During the various assembly times I have share this term I have had the joy of sharing a lesson on being generous with what God has blessed us with. I have loved the kids response as I share the story of the "Widow's mite." I have two kids come up to play the part of the rich giving and one to play the widow. The rich one I give loads of bags of gold chocolate coins and ask him to throw one bag to charity and share that the widow only has two pennies, everything she has, but gives them away. I then ask the kids who gave the most? Over 90% of the kids know that the widow has given more even though she put in less coins. We then shared an application based on our abbilities and gifts God gives us to use. Even though in some areas we have little to give, it isn't about the quantity but it is about our willingness and desire to share what we have for the good of others. I also make the point that Jesus notices when we make the effort!

With my after school clubs I must say that I am loving them too. I am working with a younger group at Meethill school this term - the P4's and 5's :) They are lovely and if our first session last Thursday afternoon is an indication of what is to come then I am excited! I tend to forget the impact these after school stuff is having untill I am in Morrisons or Asda getting messages and there are all these kids with their parents waving and talking to me. My Tuesday afternoons are out at Crimond coaching football. Again, I love the the excitment and happiness, especially with the P1-4's, as they come and go to the session. The older ones are a bit more compettitive and aware of their ability and they tend to need a lot more council rather than coaching, but the outcome is the same - relationships! On Friday afternoons I finish the school week with Anna Ritchie! Every week there is something that captures my heart with them :) This week it was James Cantly and his "never give up" mentality. James had about 4 shots on target last week and if he had a stronger leg every one of them would have found the net, but because there wasn't enough power behind the shots the keeper would just manage to get over and save them. James didn't score, but when we were walking off the playground he was telling me how that next week he would score! What an encouragment to me, they all are!

We are having some amazing class times! This has been most obvious on Wednesday nights. We have seen growth in this class over the past two terms. On reflection it may be down to the involvement of the young Christains and their influence. Wednesday is when all ages are together, apart from the 35 minutes we split for class. There is an obvious joy and happiness in the air as they play and sing together. As I mentioned earlier C.J and Megan have the youngest class, Fenella teaches the middle class and I have the teens. These are encouraging times and if I let my mind run a wee bit wild I see generations involved together and passing the faith effectivelly to the one coming behind.

Last night in our Primary School age class was further evidence that this cycle is in fact in progress. We had a bit of fun with it being "Halloween." I don't buy into the horror of it, but in the context of the class it was a great opportunity for sharing. We had a blast with the younger kids! Again if it were not for the teens helping, it would not have been as effective. I am not going to say too much, because the photo's say everything :)

I have made a concious effort this term to spend more time in personal growth. I tendes to get so caught up in meeting the needs in others that I was not feeding myself. I will take a book on Monday morning and go to "my local," which is the Symposium Coffee Shop. I am loving the time to sit and litterally feel my tank being filled! I changed my Monday schedule so that I am not running home from Crimond at 4.45pm and rushing to get supper and away at 6.00pm for class with the young children. Now, I have time to get a wee bit more focused and less rushed. I have to say is is good :)

During the October Holiday when the girls were out of school we were able to enjoy family stuff. Fenella was off work for a week and we even got to meet up with Amy for a brief visit. Amy was up in Aberdeen performing with the Edinburgh University Chamber Choir and we were able to meet up for a wee while before the performance. It's hard coming to terms with family growing up and doing what they need to do. However, the fact that Amy is doing well and that she is very concientious about her decisions make Fenella and I proud. It was good to have Beth home for the break and get back to the normality of shouting up the stairs in the early afternoon for her to get up! I must admit, it was sooo nice to do that. Fenella and Beth were working on how they were going to get to all Beth's upcomig auditions. I was able to watch from a distance and be in total admiration of a mother's love and devotion. Fenella is such an amazing mum :) Anyway, we got time to play some badminton, go swimming, see the Three Musketeer's Movie and share a few driving experiences with Beth at the wheel.

I continue to enjoy the challenge of delivering a lesson to the church that will both encourage and enable the Spirit to have an avenue that causes us to desire holiness. We looked at Forgiveness and Generosity as an essential part of our being a servant and that no true act of service comes without sacrifice. If we are to meet the needs of the lost and hurting because of the brokeness of the flesh and of this world, we must engage with and shoulder some of their hurt. It is not an option, for a Christian, to pass by on the other side and be unaffected by the condition of the lost. Instead it is our joy to lead others to life and healing that is Christ's to give. God continues to open my eyes and my mind to the truths and the riches of His Word - may it ever be.

It struck me last night with the kids that I missed Alex Swango. I looked back at old photo's and this time last year we were side by side as Batman and Pick 'n' Mix bringing joy to the children. Alex will be getting married on the 19th of this month and I just wanted to wish both he and Erica his intended bride to be, every blessing in Christ as they look to start their married life together :)

God Bless!

A little Treat...

2011-09-22T12:16:00.000+01:00

Click on the link to see Amy and Beth performing together - beautiful :)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2433386799903

Family update

2011-09-13T13:39:00.000+01:00

It has been a while since I posted something about my family, so here goes!

Fenella continues to tirelessly be the mother and provider our family need. I do not use the word "Tirelessly" lightly! Fenella is so involved in all the girls lives and keeps all of us organized and updated on where we should be and what we need to be doing. She is a devoted mum :) As if running after the 5 of us was not full enough, she works three and a half days to make sure we are not too much of a burden on the churches that are supporting our ministry. Fenella rarely takes time out, but on a Thursday night she enjoys being a part of the Haddo Coral Society and can be found sitting at the computer singing along to the various music pieces they are preparing to perform. It may well be that the girls do get their love for music from their mum.

Amy is getting ready to return to life in Edinburgh - she loves it! Amy's life is full of music and beauty. Although University has been out for the summer we have seen very little of her at home due to being involved with various Choir's and Operatic Society's. Amy went to France on tour with the Edinburgh Chamber Choir and has the joy of performing in Lyon, Paris and . She was involved with this years Edinburgh "Fringe" Festival in "Hero's and Villains" which was excerpts from various opera's including, Hansel and Gretel, Marriage of Figaro, Cunning Little Vixen and Nixon in China. We were able to be there and enjoy her performance :) We were back in Edinburgh for Amy's singing with the National Youth Choir of Scotland who performed with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. This was still part of the Edinburgh Festival and stole the headlines with 5 star reviews! It was something special!

Beth is in her final year is Secondary school and is preparing to audition to music colleges later this year. She will travel down to Glasgow, Manchester and London in the hope that she will be accepted to one of them. Off course, Fenella and I know that she will have her pick because she is an amazing oboe player, we just hope that the auditioning panels see what we see in Beth. Beth is a dedicated student and loves her oboe! We have come to terms with Beth being away from us through most week days and in a way it reminds me of when I was fishing and the anticipation of heading for home at the end of a trip. It is always a highlight when Beth walks through the front door on a Friday!

I know that music takes up a bunch of Amy and Beth's life and, as their dad, I love that. However, I am more delighted looking at my older daughters as they grow in character and grace. It always brings a glow inside when I hear teachers or poeple comment about their character and their moral standing - I love that they love music, but I love more that they strive for godliness :)

Holly is as creative and social as ever! Ever since Holly was a baby she has craved being with people and enjoying company! As she grows her love for art is growing and this is evident in her interests. Holly tried music, but it was not for her! She has a lovely voice and has musicallity, but does not enjoy the practicle and theory involved with it. Holly loves drawing and creating new characters and story lines. She loves sitting doodling and coming up with new "Monster High" Characters. One of Holly's favorite TV programs is "Ace of cakes." Again she loves watching the design process and the creation of something cool or beautiful. She dreams of one day having her own cake shop :)

Hannah is a home bird, but gets on with everybody! Hannah loves being at home and with her family. Hannah has a soft spot for Fenella's mum and dad who are deaf. Hannah is really good at sign language and takes a lot of time Jack and Alexa - they love this! Hannah loves adventure and is a keen Dr Who fan! She is following in her older sisters musical footsteps and plays the violin and piano. Hannah is really good with music and reads it very well. She loves reading her current books are the "Ellise Collection" and "Dr Who." Hannah is a caring soul and thinks she may one day become a teacher or maybe a physio like her mum :)

Holly and Hannah are now in P7 and will be moving up to the High School next year! It is so hard to comprehend that! With Amy at Uni and Beth through in Dyce most of the time it is nice to give Holly and Hannah the attention that Amy and Beth got when they were young. They are growing into fine girls. When Amy and Beth are home it is so lovely to see them sharing advice and wisdom to their younger sisters - I love that :)

We are blessed!

Aberdeen Youth Weekend and More...

2011-09-08T10:54:00.000+01:00

Don't quite know where to begin here. I want to begin looking back at the weekend and simply say, "WOW!" In advance of the weekend I had booked a mini bus - 17 seats. When the names finally stopped coming in we had 19 going plus Donald and me! It was a bit overwhelming, but then I got to thinking of the opportunity this was. Getting to spend the weekend with the group in the setting of the youth weekend - how rich is that! Amy and Elaine looked out for the girls who went to Emma and Steven Glennie's house. Don't know how Emma and Steven managed it - all 8 of our girls were sleeping with them! I must say though that I was chuffed when I heard that they were all going there. Emma and Steven are a lovely couple and I knew the girls would have a great time there. I must mention Heidi, Emma and Steven's baby daughter, who became a big hit with the girls :) All the boys stayed at the building with Donald and me. What a joy! Of course there is all the usual boyish antics and banter, but through the course of the weekend I loved watching the group grow and be challenged to think deeply about their life and their actions. We played a lot of football! I am still thankful for this avenue to connect and get to know the guys temperaments as they compete on the field - great insight! I loved going to Emma and Steven's house in the mornings to get the girls and watch them file out with smiles on their faces. The van was never quiet and all the way to the building there was an excitement and anticipation that there was going to be a great day ahead. That was the weekend in a nutshell! Everyone went around knowing the day was going to be good - and it was! Scott Tominey, Robin Vick and Adam Barr each gave outstanding lessons based on the qualities set out in 1 Timothy 4:12. There was sufficient free time for relationship building and enough fun,games and food as well.

The group we took to Aberdeen were, Amy Strachan, Beth Strachan, Elaine Pressley, Claire Geddes, Amie Walker, Kirsty McQuillan, Kerri Buchan, Megan Ritchie, Thomas Dickie, Shaun Main, Stuart Geddes, Ryan Geddes, Scott Findlay, Bruce Thain, Jordan Sutherland, Kierran Birkett, Andrew Main and Lewis Emslie. I want you to see their names and to know that each of them were exemplary in their conduct and were an honour to be with and to be representing the Peterhead Church of Christ. I will not tell a lie, it took me a good few days to recuperate, but I would not change a thing! Yes, the feeling of calm that came over me once the kids were dropped off home and the van was filled with fuel and returned to the yard was nice, but the memories of the weekend are precious and in the future will provide avenues for blessing - well worth the effort :)

I feel as though I am repeating myself often when I say that God is doing great things with this group, but it is the truth! Yes, we get our share of teenage drama and the attention seeking and the baggage of worldly influence, but there is true desire for Christ in that mix and I am prayerful that the Spirit continues to be active in allowing their young lives to be drawn closer to seeing the glory of our God.

God bless!

10 Years!

2011-09-08T09:40:00.001+01:00

It's always getting the first few words on the the page that is the toughest when it's been a while. There are MANY reasons for not having entered a post for so long, but I will condense it and simply say that mental exhaustion meant I needed a break over the summer weeks to refresh my mind. It is always good when we examine our lives and question our priorities. This new term I am prayerful that some of the subtle changes will continue to allow God a channel through my life to work His will in the lives of some. Well, as the title of this post suggests it has now been 10 years Fenella and I have been back home "Fishing for men" rather than me going to sea catching fish. I suppose the best way I can sum things up is by this statement, "My heart was never in fishing, but it is in Ministry!"

When I look at what the church in Peterhead looks like now in light of what it was 10 years ago, I am confident that what God placed on our hearts is happening. God's Spirit has brought about an incredible change in the direction and the thinking of many young people in Peterhead. What we now accept as "Normal" is so different to what was 10 years ago :) The church is now a place where many children, teens and young adults come into a relationship with God. They have created and environment where both the saved and the searching are comfortable together. I am constantly amazed at how God is drawing our young Christians into service and watching their desire to influence and serve the children coming behind them is such a blessing, in fact it is the greatest blessing that can be passed on - the blessing of knowing God.

I want to make a few comments about our classes now that the new term is a couple of weeks in. On Monday night's we work with a group of children from age 5 - 11. Last night was our third class in the term and what a joy! There are so many exciting developments coming as a result of this class. I believe a hugely important factor within this class is the avenue for our young teen Christians to minister. We have Shaun, Jordan, C.J and Megan faithfully serving on Monday nights. They are pretty much covering most of the bases during the class. The part I enjoy witnessing most is the first 20 minutes of class. For this time we let the children play. It is a brilliant time for the teens to chill out and get down with the the kids! The relationships they build are HUGE! When the kids see the faith of the teens it becomes real to them, especially over time. The teens do most of the settling down and checking the kids. Another big joy is seeing them take an active part in the bible lesson times. Over the past while they have been getting more and more involved in the teaching when it comes to bible time. I could very easily see them being responsible for the class before the end of the year! I have to mention Donald too :) He is an integral part of the structure! His smiley and gently encouraging qualities are perfect for the class.

On Wednesday night we have a big group coming together. This is our mixed class when we have everyone from age 5 to 20 :) The first 45 minutes are for relationship building and in keeping with Monday night's all ages work well together. We have seen a growth spurt in our teens coming from Friday night to Wednesday nights. This is good! Last week I got a shock when I had copied 15 lesson outlines and was short! There is a real spiritual appetite growing in this group and I am prayerful it is real and lasting. We have a core that is tight and their influence is having an effect throughout the group. We have around 30 coming on Wednesday night and the spread is pretty even through the ages.

Friday Nights!!! Just love what God is doing with this time. I am always stressing to the group that the time is so good because of two things, one - they choose to make it so and two - Christ is there! In years past we have struggled with format and when to have the spiritual focus and when to have the relational and social elements, but in the past months we don't even think about it. The group arrive between 6.45 and 7.30. We usually begin the focused worship time around 7.45. We sing for a while and either myself, Thomas or Shaun will lead a prayer. The teaching time is the highlight. The group are challenging to get the depth right, but the results are more often that not drawing them closer to Christ. After the lesson we chill for the last hour and everyone heads out just around 10.00pm. We have a great bunch of young people and there are signs that Christ is beginning to tug on the heart strings of a couple :)

I am blesses to be able to share time through the week on a more intimate level with many of the teens. I am convicted that if they are to grow then Godly influence must be more consistent in their lives. So, in between schools and classes I try to make time for this. It is not easy trying to balance the days and know what is the best use of my time. I am still very much active in the schools. I decided to drop one after school club this term in order to focus more time on visiting and personal study. I am still active with clubs in 3 schools, Anna Ritchie on a Friday afternoon, Crimond on a Tuesday afternoon and Meethill on a Thursday afternoon. I am active in the school assemblies and in fact have started teaching in one additional school - Longside where Mr Imlah, formerly of Central school, is now the head teacher. I am prayerful that my ministry has the right balance between outreach and nurture.

Enough for now, more soon - God bless :)

Two - "One of a Kinds!"

2011-07-03T22:08:00.005+01:00

I don't know if you have seen those charity donation things where you put a coin in at the side and it runs in circles, slow and big to begin, but the closer it gets to the small hole at the bottom the faster the coin goes? That seems to be our lives this past while. The end of the school term is the hole at the bottom and the closer we got to it the faster the pace of our lives seemed to get. However, everything changed and real perspective was forced upon us by two huge happenings. The first happened on Thursday night with the addition to the family of Wendy Sutherland and the second was the shock news that Angie Park had been found having a massive bleed to the brain and soon after passed away.

Wendy is Donald's wife and Jordan's mum. Wendy has been convicted for a few weeks, but was waiting till Donald returned home from fishing before committing her life to Christ. Donald came home on Wednesday and after the meeting that night we were all standing around at the back of the hall after class talking and it was than that the wheels were set in motion for Wendy's baptism to take place the following night. Wendy wanted my dad to have the honour of baptising her into the family. I was privileged to lead some songs and talking a wee bit before handing over to my dad. Wendy has such a lovely heart! My dad lead some good thoughts and after taking Wendy's confession he led her by the hand down into the water and baptized Wendy into Christ. Wendy is a "hugger" and needless to say there were tears of joy and hugs for all. After the baptism a bunch were invited out to my mum and dad's house for a meal and some warm fellowship - a beautiful night! I can't believe Wendy is now my baby sister in Christ. It is quite amazing to take a step back and take in what God has done in the Sutherland household these past weeks! I am excited and anticipate great things as God uses this lovely family for His glory :)

I still can't believe Angie is no longer with us. It is not easy to put Angie's life into words. Angie, like her dad Alistair, had a heart for kids and made it her mission to encourage and bring a smile to the face of any child she met. You were never in any doubt that Angie's heart belonged to Christ, in spite of a life that was strewn with challenges and trials, Christ was her Lord! On the day of her funeral Michael did an outstanding job in honouring Angie's life and faith. The hall was full and there were all generations there to pay there respects, a true reflection that Angie had this gift to touch all ages with her beauty. The comment that was heard over and over when everyone was together for her funeral was that Angie will now be at home with her dad :)

Just reflecting on this post makes me smile. The church has said "Cheerio" to a life that was "One of a kind" and said "Hello" to another life that is "One of a kind!"

God bless!

Forgot to mention this...

2011-06-15T11:01:00.003+01:00

I must mention this as part of the Mission UK entry. You will notice from the picture on the left that Stuart has no glasses on, let me share with you all why... On the first Sunday afternoon of the campaign we decided to play a game of football. There were maybe 14 of us playing on a full size pitch - crazy, but great! Towards the end of the game Stuart Geddes and Craig Nesbit had a bit of a collision. The end result was Stuart scored a great goal, but in getting to the ball first with his head he also met Craig's hand with his face :( Stuarts glasses went flying and it wasn't till he placed them back on his nose that they split in two. We had a good laugh at Stuarts expense, not really considering the actual cost that Stuart would have in replacing his glasses. We later found out that they were £155! Later in the week when I found out how much Stuart was going to have to pay to get his glasses replaced I felt a big bit sorry for him. At one of our group times I relayed Stuart's dilemma to the group and asked of they would be willing to make a small contribution to help offset the cost. On the Wednesday night it was my joy to hand Stuart an envelope with a bunch of money from the group (just short of the total amount). I know this had a huge impact on Stuart and the following morning I got texts from Stuart letting me know that he had picked up his new glasses and how he wanted to thank everyone for being so kind. That night at class Stuart gave the group a Thank You card, Malteesers and Celebrations as a token of his appreciation. This is what Christians do and it is always good to see love in action.

Another BIG moment I forgot to mention was the fact that it was Shaun Main's 1st birthday this past Saturday :) It was during last years campaign that Shaun decided to commit his life to Christ and here we are one year on already! (Shaun is the one on the right side of the picture)

Good times :)

Mission UK - Peterhead 2011

2011-06-14T09:14:00.008+01:00

This entry will be pretty much a report on the events during our campaign. This year we had a group of 15 UK young adults as well as 6 of our Peterhead young adults make up the group. We kicked off the campaign on Friday 3rd June and finished up this past Sunday 12th June. The campaign was fantastic!

Everyone arrived in time for the teen class on the Friday night. It was a fitting start to the campaign and there was an instant connection between our teens and the group. When we circled up at the start of the class time the circle was BIG! With the 15 in the group and our own group there was a crowd :) We sang for a long time, everyone had so many requests, great way to set the tone for the week ahead - lovely! Enoch led the devo thought and did a great job.

On the Saturday we got stuck into the school program prep. It was evident early on that we had a great program for the kids. We spent the morning going over what the script should say and how the story should be told. By lunch time we had the parts allocated and were running through the three main acts. The first act was focused on the King and his willingness to give gifts to all. The second scene focused on the "Taker" and his evil role in taking away the gifts the king had given. The third act focused on the children of the king making their choices to follow either the King or the Taker. In between the three acts we put in a time for interactive singing and a question and answer time. The song we chose was "Love is the flag". We did some further rehearsals in the afternoon and broke up for supper.

On the Monday we had our "Sneak Peek" and had a blast! For the first half we set up three stations inside the building, Craft Station - the kids made a crown and decorated them with various glitters and sticky things. Movie Station - Daisha had "The poisoned Chalice" movie. We set up one of the classrooms as a mini theatre with the projector. Active Station - the kids played various versions of tag and tails, using our specially constructed dungeon for those captured. Everything engaged the kids perfectly and going by the kids reactions I think we got the balance just right :) After some hot dogs and sandwiches we spent the rest of the time outside. We had face painting, bouncy castle and slide, Blindfolded Jousting, Fire the Catapult, Pugil sticks. The four hours passed SO quickly and before we knew it the parents were in the car park ready to pick up their children! The day was very good and there were so many opportunities to make connections with the kids and share friendship. After the children were safely away there then began a wee water fight. It is maybe a sign of old age, but I didn't seem to have my usual appetite for giving and receiving a soaking. The teens however, had plenty appetite and after about 45 minutes we called a truce and got everywhere tidied up and then went home for supper. In the evening we got together for a couple of hours to build more confidence into the school program, ready for our first school early the following morning.

Between Tuesday and Friday we visited 9 schools, two more than last year. This year we had the joy of going to Longside School where Mr Imlah, formerly of Central School, is now the head teacher. We were also delighted to be with Buchanhaven School this year too. It didn't take long to realise the story we presented to the schools was connecting with the kids and the message was being brought home powerfully. The part that got the kids most excited and engaged was when the confused princess asked the audience what she should do, either choose to join the "Taker" and do like she does or to follow the example of the king and be like him. I have never seen such passion expressed in an assembly before! The kids were shouting and pointing in the direction of the king to persuade the princess to make the right choice and follow him. When the princess would walk toward the Taker, the kids would scream "NO!" The message of the assembly was so simple, yet managed to get pull a great response from the children :) I will never forget the way every school responded to that part of the play. At the end of the enactment of the story we would ask the children questions to see if they made the connection between the king being in fact God, and they did every time. They also got the point we were trying to make via the prince and princesses in regard to the choices we have to make between right and wrong. I love thinking back and knowing that through the story we were able to elevate God in the minds of every child and challenge them to think about the fact that we are ALL sons and daughters of the King! I need to mention a couple of memorable moments linked to our times in the schools. Firstly, at Central, which was our first school, the drama teacher asked if the cast would stay and help teach her class! So, the group were able to re-tell the story using the primary 6's as the cast. It was a lovely additional blessing. Secondly, when we were at Longside School the school sang, "My God is so Big" for us. A true testimony to the leadership of the head teacher, Mr Imlah :) Thirdly, when we were at Anna Ritchie School we were treated like royalty and the group loved visiting the classes and getting to talk with the kids more intimately. I can't mention everything that the group were blessed by, but it was clear the children there touched our lives deeply. To sum up our week in the schools it would be true to say that the group gave selflessly of themselves, but were blessed richly in return!

We had some "Coffee Shop" down times where we just relaxed, talked and debriefed. On the Tuesday night we shared a time of fellowship down there. The shop was full and there was plenty of laughter and friendship. We really appreciated Paul, the owner of the Coffee Shop, opening after hours for us - THANK YOU :)

Possibly the highlight for me over the week was the Friday Night. The group decorated the Fellowship Hall. What a transformation! There were candles everywhere and stars dangling from the ceiling. You really did walk through and say, "WOW!" Before the guests were shown to their tables they had to go and get their photo's taken first. They walked up the red carpet and were seated on their thrones. It was so much fun. The cooks had spent much of the day preparing the food and they didn't disappoint. We had chicken stuffed with cheese and wrapped in ham, with salad and cheesy potato. For desert there was a choice of Pavlova or Sticky Toffee Pudding - truly a feast fit for a king! During the meal there was a talent show to entertain the guests. We had a magic act and singing. I am not exaggerating when I say that the quality was outstanding! It was a beautiful night and our church was truly made to feel special by the service and love shown to them by the group :)

On the Saturday we had a PICNIC! We went out to Crichie Park and spent most of the day there. The weather was not to great, but the day was radiant! There were all generations there from the families who come to the Mother and Toddlers group that meets on Friday mornings right through to our golden oldies. There were a couple of memorable highlights worthy of mention. Firstly, the races! We got a bunch of mums and toddlers to race. We had the 5 through 10 age group racing and then for some fun we paired up the kids with the young adults for some silly races - Happy Times! Secondly, we had a big game of rounders! Alison Geddes, Stuart, Ryan and Claire's mum, challenged me to pick an opposing team. What a laugh! With the grass being a wee bit wet, due to the light rain, there was a lot of sliding going on! In the end Alison claimed victory, but I'm not so sure we were even keeping a record of the runs scored. The day was simply filled with fun and fellowship and you can't get better than that :)

I must mention Paddy's lessons! Paddy very kindly agreed to run a series of lessons throughout the week that tied in with the theme. Our souls were well fed! The lesson that stood out in my memory was one that talked about God as the author of the story. During the lesson Paddy put up some photo's of people we knew and have strong connections with. He asked us to think about the person and we shared some of the memories and ways our lives have connected over the years. Paddy then put up a slide with only a white outline of a person and inside the outline was the word God and a question mark. Paddy asked us to fill the blank space with what we thought about God. It was quite powerful at the time and stopped everyone in their tracks. We were challenged to ask ourselves if we had a relationship with God or simply information about who He is. I can sit and listen to Paddy teach till the cows come home!

In closing. I am excited to see what "Increase" God will bring knowing a great deal of watering and planting has been done for the good of the Kingdom in the name of the KING.

P.S. We even let the group become honorary members of our wall and trier hands are now proudly displayed for us to look back in years to come and remember with joy the campaign we shared this year :)

God Bless.

He gives more Grace!

2011-05-28T18:54:00.008+01:00

Thought it was about time I got this updated! Looking back over the past few weeks it is a bit weird being at this side and knowing that God has brought us safe thus far - again! There were times I really struggled to see the light at the end off the tunnel, but as ever God has provided the strength and grace when required to get through :) I really don't know where to begin...

I will start with what was to be a great honour, but at the same time one of my biggest challenges. The last time Fenella and I were up in Buckie preaching, we spent a good part of the afternoon visiting with Ian and Avril Bowie. We did not know that this would be the last time we would see Ian this side of eternity. We knew that Ian had been fighting cancer for the past year, but we were not prepared for the phone call just over a week later letting us know that he had passed away. Over the course of the phone call I was asked if I would take the funeral service. I felt instantly humbled at the thought that the family considered me capable of honouring Ian's life in this way. I remember getting off the phone and feeling so overwhelmed. It wasn't until Fenella got home from work and we got a chance to talk that things began to sink in. I just couldn't get my head around the question, "How do you do justice to the giant of a man that was Ian Bowie?" By faith, I rested in the thought that, of course I would do whatever I could to help the family. I spent the following day with the family up in Cullen. The day reminded me of how good a father and husband Ian was and also how much I loved this family. Fenella came with me on the next visit :) Avril had invited a bunch of their closest friends for a meal and we spent the day getting to know the precious things about Ian and Avril's life with the people who who were there through the thick and thin of it. What a blessing! As if it were not clear enough, the beautiful picture of Ian and Avril's life together radiated in the stories and conversations and left me with no doubt that Ian truly lived! This was to form the basis of the sentiments I would begin the service with, "It's not the length, but the depth of a life that matters." We shared and focused on Ian a s a Husband and a Father and of his worthiness to claim both titles because he truly loved his family! One of Ian's close friends spoke of Ian's love for the sea and about what Ian's friendship meant to him. Alan also touched on Ian's faith and made this comment, "I was talking with Ian about the great hope that we have in Christ, when he corrected me and said, "Not hope, but ASSURANCE!" Alan certainly honoured Ian and the family with his words. Towards the close of the service I remember having this mixed emotion of knowing I had said enough, but at the same time feeling we had only scratched the surface and there was so much more that could be said. After the service all I wanted to do was find the arms of Fenella and be reassured. I pray that Ian and the family were honoured.

Let me shift to the other extreme! I must share our Friday night lesson from a couple of weeks ago. Donald and I came up with this idea that we would have some fun with the lesson, since the previous weeks had been a bit challenging. We split the group into four smaller groups and gave them a piece of paper and pen to document what they were about to witness. Donald and I then made an exit to transform ourselves into two VERY silly looking people. We made our entrance and were met with some very shocked and confused faces. We looked at each other from across the room and made it obvious to the kids that we liked the way we looked and thought everyone else was boring. We went around the room doing some silly stuff and than made our exit. When we returned to teach the point of our little" charade" everyone was still in shock. We asked everyone what they had written down regarding what they had witnessed. The statements were ranging from witnessing something "very weird and disturbing" to other groups detailing everything about our costume and antics. We then went on to share what we were doing. We wanted the group to get a handle on why there are 4 different accounts to the life of Jesus and why they are written in different ways. The other point we wanted to make was our desire for the group to stand out and be different in regard to their faith and that in God's eyes they are as obvious to Him as Donald and I were from the crowd in the room. I have to say that I love Donald's sense of fun and his desire to make this connection with the group. Donald had our little performance recorded and I am informed it is on You Tube, but for fear of my integrity being compromised I will not be making the link public :) Donald even titled his clip "B.A.D" Billy And Donald!

I wish you all could see the trouble I am having to pick out stuff to put in here! There are a bunch of stuff that I must rest in the fact that God knows :) I have to mention our journey so far with JR, Dashia, Gideon and Naomi Sheets. They are now pretty much settled into some kind or routine and have their body clocks adjusted to our time. This is now 4 weeks we have been "Getting to know each other" and we like what we see :) We have three months to get enough of a picture to see if we are the right church them and if they are the right family for us. I must qualify that statement by saying that it is obvious that JR and Daisha are a kingdom minded couple and that their focus over the past years has been to prepare for ministry, so their hearts are not in question. We need to know if they are excited about what God is doing here and what God could do if they were here and we need to know if we are excited about what God can do through them, for His church here (hope you can make sense of that). May God continue to make the picture clearer for all of us.

I am still spending much of my time during the day between ministering in the schools and spending time with our teens. These past days it has been so encouraging to see many of them get their sleeves rolled up and help up at the building with stuff for our campaign that starts on Friday :) I can't believe the time has gone so fast and our "Mission UK 2011" begins in three days time!!! We are going to have a Ball! We have pretty much got everything done, but a couple of loose ends to tie up. I was able to meet with David Emslie and Paddy Sullivan yesterday to reassure each other that we are good to go! Jordan Sutherland came with me for the day as we met David and Paddy in Dundee and then went down to Edinburgh to empty Amy's flat and take everything home. Jordan was great company and I am enjoying getting closer to my baby brother in Christ :)

I must quickly mention about the fact that we are growing and that we have visitors coming to church! Wendy (The Human Dynamo) Sutherland is fast growing on our affections and her lovely nature is leading others to come in contact with the church. We are enjoying getting to know Helen, Sam, Kirsty and Chloe! They are a magic bunch and have found the church through Wendy's involvement. Sam and Kirsty are teenagers who are coming to pretty much everything going!

God Bless!

For the greater good...

2011-04-26T08:30:00.006+01:00

The title of this entry is something I have had to remind myself constantly these past days. It seems that the past few weeks have been very different as far as what has consumed my time and efforts. We got a wee bit of a scare a couple of weeks ago to find out that someone had hacked into my "Facebook" account and circulated a very clever hoax about Fenella being rushed to hospital and needing immediate surgery. Of course, this was going to cost money which needed to be found immediately. I am thankful that some friends, who know us well, had picked up on some of the discrepancies within the hoax and raised the alarm. At the time we were in Aberdeen and couldn't do anything, other than get in touch with my brother George, who was able to let College Church (our Sponsoring Church) know for sure it was a hoax. It was not till we got home and saw the list of comments left by concerned people that we were aware how far reaching this hoax had gone. After contacting a bunch of friends to confirm the hoax I called the "Western Union" to see how we could shut down this scam. They were extremely helpful and withing 10 minutes we had checked to see if funds had been sent to this thief, to our relief there was not! They then shut down the account to ensure no further activity would be possible and passed the case on to their fraud squad for further investigation. So, let me apologise if you were preyed on by this scam and thank you all for the concern shown.

As many of you may be aware we have been making plans for JR and Daisha Sheets to be with us over the summer. They are due to arrive in just over a weeks time. Ministry can be challenging at times :) I have spent much of the past week on the phone to the UK Borders Agency or trying to comply with their MANY requirements for gaining the appropriate visa for Jr and Daisha to be with us. It is no longer easy to invite missionaries from the USA. I have to mention one positive throughout all this trying process. We have gained an insight into the character of JR and Daisha. We have been thrown many "Spanners in the Works" during these past weeks and there have been times I have been at the end of my tether, but seeing how JR and Daisha have dealt with and done what was required has been testament to their hearts and their desire for the kingdom. This journey has given us all reason to be encouraged. Even though there have been obstacles, God is faithful and we have seen His hand provide when things have been desperate. Prayers are still needed, in light of Jr and Daisha coming, as their applications are still going through the British Embassy for approval at this moment. We anticipate a great summer :)

Although much of our energy has been taken up by admin and talking to officials there has still been plenty of opportunity to minister. I have spent a fair bit of time and made a few visits to help council and encourage. I have also been able to spend some time with our young Christan's and in particular Donald. I am getting to know him well and enjoy any excuse to get together. We met up to clean the building yesterday after our Easter fun with the Monday night bunch and then nipped out to Crichie to book the park for our church Picnic. In all so glad he is part of the family now.

Speaking of Monday night, we did have a brilliant time. I love it when the kids faces are smiling from the time they enter the door till the time they are picked up. Fenella boiled a heap of eggs ready for the class. After our usual 20 minutes of chill out and games we got everyone together and set out tables ready for painting the eggs. There were some pretty good ones. Everyone enjoyed being creative for a while, as well as getting a bit messy (hence the reason for Donald and I coming the morning after to clean up). Next on the agenda was an egg hunt. We sent them in groups to find the eggs and timed them to see which group would return with one egg each in the shortest time. The youngest group went first and found the eggs in the quickest time :) I had filled a jar with as many mini eggs as I could and asked everyone to take a guess at how many there were. It was cute when the time came to reveal who had the nearest guess, as the winner was Abi, one of the younger kids who come. I must say I was quietly happy that Abi won. She is going to hide the jar under her pillow when she gets home so that no-one pinches them :) Ethian won the trophy for colouring in this week. Both he and Abi raised the bar this week when they not only coloured in their picture, but laminated it too! Maybe going a wee bit too far... Wendy told me he was taking the trophy up to school to show his class. We had two new kids tonight, Siobhan and Dylan. I must tell you about Ethian. I was in visiting and found out that he has a powerpoint presentation ready to share with his class at school about why they need to come to Monday Night Class. He went off to school with his memory stick ready to ask his teacher if he could share it with the class! Now if that is not evangelism, I don't know what is!!! Ethian has brought a bunch of his friends from school to class. It makes me so happy to know that he loves coming enough to invite his friends and in fact his whole class.

A couple of weeks ago I had the joy of heading down to Arbroath to the young adults retreat. We were to meet for the first time as a group and discuss our plan for the schools program during our campaign in June. The group are lovely and I am Hugely excited about working for the good of our community with them. Our focus for the group will be primary age kids and our theme will be, "Sons and Daughters of the King." We want to get the message out to the kids that they are all children of God. We got some of the ideas for what we wanted the program to include and how we wanted to interact with the kids during the assembly time. We will have opportunity to visit with every school in Peterhead including an additional 2 schools out-with the town. This means influencing every child between the age of 4 and 11 in Peterhead :))) Please pray for our ability to connect and leave an obvious and impacting message relating to God and His love for us all. It will be a big group this year, in excess of 20! With this in mind we will split the group and have a service element to our focus. It gives us a new challenge this year, but one that will give the chance to do much good. EXCITED!

While the school's were out for the Easter break we went down to Edinburgh for the weekend. We had planned to go in order that we could hear Beth perform with the Edinburgh Youth Orchestra at the Usher Hall. Beth had been rehearsing with the orchestra for 10 days before the concert and the results were amazing! In the opening piece Beth had a big solo on the Cor Anglais. She was outstanding! All the family were there to watch and cheer. Amy almost deafened us with her outburst of screaming and praise! We are very proud of our little first oboe :)

God bless!

Welcome to the family Donald!

2011-04-05T22:31:00.002+01:00

I finished up my last post commenting that God may not be quite finished yet and today's events have backed this up! This afternoon I went round to talk with Donald as we had arranged earlier. I knew he was close to the kingdom, but didn't know how our time together would work out. It was not long into our talk when his honesty about exactly where he was, in relation to taking the next step, was made clear. Donald, like the rest of us, has a healthy respect for the "sinful nature" that is constantly waging war against us. He was worried that in his own mind he was not perfect enough to commit to Christ. In response I commented about God knowing our innermost being and that His desire is to transform us. Would Donald ever be perfect enough? The sooner Christ is accepted and the Spirit begins to convict and challenge, the sooner his life would begin to be free from the fear of sin and the guilt of falling short. I asked if he was watching one of his sons go through a tough time if he could just stand back and watch, or if he would get right in there to protect and provide. We talked about God's desire to give us, as His children, what we need to bring about the best in us. We talked about living with hope and forgiveness rather that fear and sin. I simply asked which of the two paths he would rather choose. From that point on there was clarity in Donald's voice and his thinking. I asked if he were to commit his life to Christ, when would that be. His response was immediate and deadly serious, "NOW!" His mind was made up and all the wrestling over the past weeks was at an end! We prayed together and then began the joy of sharing the news. I had to smile when he phoned Wendy to tell her. I could hear her scream from the other side of the room :) It was then a bit of a blur as we worked on getting things organised. A little side point here, I think Donald and I share a similar trait of forgetfulness! As I had no car I needed to get to Fenella's work to get the car, but on the way we were so busy talking that we were driving in the totally wrong area of the town. We both looked at each other and asked the same question, "Where are we supposed to be going?" Anyway, at 7.00pm we all got to the building and shared another heavenly moment witnessing Donald become a child of the King! I talked for a wee bit before taking his confession. I wanted to read Romans 6, but my eyes were blurry and I asked someone to read for me. Jordan (Donald's son) stood up and read - it was amazing! I loved being able to listen and to the words as he read. It was a special moment! It was my honour to then take Donald's confession. Donald could hardly make the "Yes" audible, but his expression and tears spoke louder than his voice ever could. We prayed and took the few steps down into the water and said goodbye to old Donald Sutherland, but then said hello to the new and Spirit filled child of the most high God! I have to comment on what Shaun said after we got changed and were mingling with everyone. Shaun who is 18 welcomed Donald who is, well a bit older, with these words, "I now have a baby brother!" It was priceless! Jordon caught on to the concept and pointed out that his dad was now his baby brother too!

It is a joy to know that we now have a family committed to God and a home where God is now honoured. I am excited to see how God will use them in the plans for His kingdom here in Peterhead.

Our God He is ALIVE!

Another New Creation :)

2011-04-04T20:38:00.003+01:00

Exciting or what? Rachel committed her life to Christ last night. The Friday night previous Rachel and Thomas came and told me they thought she was ready. We decided to meet up on the Thursday night to talk and find out exactly what they meant and in deed to explore Rachel's expression of faith. At the outset I was a little unsure whether Rachel was where she needed to be as far as understanding what her commitment involved. However, on the Thursday it became clear that she was convicted and was totally ready. We spent the night talking about how important Christ is and making sure Rachel started out her journey knowing it is about getting Jesus in the right place first and all the other stuff will be added over time. There was much tears and honesty about where sin and bad choices can lead us, but there was much more talk about hope and what we have to anticipate knowing that forgiveness is ours and that the Spirit will be active in keeping our path close to pattern of Christ. It was obvious from that time that Rachel was ready and passionate about her choice to become a Christian. On the Friday night we talked again toward the end of class and it became clear when I asked if she thought Sunday was too early to consider baptism. Rachel's face instantly lit up and and said, "Yes! Yes!" So, we met to study on the Saturday afternoon and made plans for the Sunday night to be when she would make her obedience to the gospel complete. On the Sunday night there was a great atmosphere following on from the joy of last Sunday and Jordan's baptism. We sang some of Rachel's favorite songs beginning with "Refiners Fire." When I took Rachel's confession, her response was beautiful! It was as though she couldn't express it quick enough and once her affirmation was out, she shed a few tears. We shared a prayer together and went down into the water to witness Rachel becoming a new creation! I have to mention something a wee bit funny. As Rachel went down the first couple of steps she slipped and almost went all the way under without my help!!! We had a laugh about it after and Thomas commented that he was expecting something like that to happen! I am so delighted for Rachel. Thomas and Rachel will now be walking in the same direction, with Christ as their life and the church as their support - they have a firm foundation :)

The amazing news is that I don't think God is quite done yet! This morning someone stated that they are seriously close to the kingdom and I pray that tomorrow afternoon we will have more good news to share! It has been a joy to watch this individual get drawn into the presence of God through the influence and involvement of predominantly young people. It is exceptional to think that our young are having this kind of impact!

As you may be aware God is doing marvelous things!

Lots more...

2011-03-29T16:59:00.006+01:00

Thought I would add to the last entry a wee bit. I want you to know how excited I am regarding our classes. Our past couple of Friday nights have been outstanding. Last week we looked at excuses and why we use them. Ultimately we went to the words of Christ and His warning at the day we stand before God, "Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven..." We discussed this hypathetical question - What will you say if God asks you, "Why should I let you into heaven?" We focused on the FACT that nothing but Christ will be good enough to get us into heaven! The week before we shared, possibly my favorite class ever, as far as the lesson goes. It was simply the right time and the right stage for the lesson. The truth is though, before the lesson I was not too sure whether I had the energy or the focus to get it across. With this in mind, I look back and know that it was God's timing once again and it was His power that worked for the good of all that night. The lesson was based on a movie that is about to be released called "Soul Surfer." The movie follows the challenge of a young competitive surfer who suffers a shark attack and looses her arm. The movie focuses on her faith and the faith of her family in helping her overcome the loss of her arm and eventually to her getting back on the board and competing again. The lesson hit home with the group in a way I was not quite ready for. One of the memorable moments was when I asked the question, "Are you surfing yet?" Of course this was in relation to their faith. Another moment was when we talked through the question, "Are you a surfer or are you paddling on the shore?" The responses were very real and honest to both these and gave the group opportunity to express where they are and how they are feeling about their faith. We then talked about where the power and momentum comes from. It does not come from the surfer, but from the wave! We talked about the work of the Spirit and God's desire for us to get up on our boards and get surfing. We talked about the FACT that every wave is not an easy one! Some will take every ounce of your effort and ability to get you to the

shore. At the end of the lesson I told the group I was going to show them a picture that was my vision for the group. I think back to when I was putting the lesson together and first saw the photo and when the concept hit me. The photo was of a group all surfing together on the crest of the wave! We talked about the reality of what they were creating as a group and the challenge to keep acknowledging that it is Christ who continues to bring about good things. Like I

mentioned at the begining, I was blown away at how God works in and through us, even when we don't think we have it in us! This is the reason it was one of my all time favorites, because I know it was not the result of my effort and I saw clearly the wind of the Spirit moving through the group.

Monday night are pretty healthy too. We have around 35 kids on the register and we have had as much as 27, but average around 22. I am sooo aware that ministry is not a numbers game! There are night when for whatever reason we may only have 15-18 kids and the opportunity is very different, as you can give much more attention to individual kids. We have a good group of teens helping out and they are taking much of the responsibility for the various phases of the class, from the prayer time, to the tuc shop, getting the task forms and pictures ready for the kids leaving and organizing the games time and fast pass challenge. There are normally between 5 and 8 teens helping me out. Donald was sharing his observation of the kids that come to Monday Night. He said he loved when the mums and dads drop the kids off and he watches the kids throw off their jackets and run through to the hall, barely saying bye to their parents! They just enjoy coming!

A couple of Sundays ago I was preaching on Sunday morning. I was touched with an overwhelming hatred towards an advert on the TV. It got to the stage that I would not watch it because it repulsed me so much. Lynx deodorant are now using angelic being falling from the sky and throwing their "Halo" to the ground in exchange for the irresistible scent of a man wearing Lynx! How man has cheapened the realm of the Spiritual! This along with an encounter involving a school child using God's name as if it were dirt shaped my thought to preaching on our lack of moral fiber and awareness of the "Holy." The challenge was to be Different, because a life focused on Jesus will mean separation from everything worldly! I used Luke's comments on David's life in Acts 13:36 where is says, "For when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep." I loved the idea of being remembered for having served God's purpose! We finished of with the idea of simply living lives "WORTHY" of our calling and the thought that "wholeness comes from holiness!"

I have to mention something about our lovely oboe player! Beth over the weekend was encouraged to take part in the Aberdeen young musician of the year in order to gain some experience. On the Saturday she impressed the judges so much that she advanced through to the final which was way beyond what was expected! Only 6 of the initial 22 gifted young musicians were selected to perform in the final. We rushed through to watch her perform on the Sunday afternoon. She was truly outstanding! The judges comments afterward was that her tone and control of the notes were beautiful! Although Beth didn't win, she was delighted with the way she played. Fenella and I could not have been more proud to see our beautiful girl play so beautifully! Amy was able to see her sister perform and it was heartwarming for Fenella and I to see the joy in Amy's eyes when Beth was performing :)

Friday marks the start of the easter break! We are so ready to wind down a little. On Saturday we have hired the local pool for an end of term treat for the youth group! It will be a fitting way for everyone to have a huge bit of fun before the break.

God Bless!

Oh, What a Night!

2011-03-29T12:23:00.006+01:00

Where to begin? Well, I will try and share how God has been working these past weeks, but I fear I will not be able to put in words just how powerfully and obviously His hand has been seen. I want to start off with a conversation I had with my dad. We went for a coffee last week and I think the essence of our time and conversation was that God's ways and timings are amazing, but at times near impossible for us to cope with. These past days especially I have been quite simply overwhelmed by God's power to bring about good things - in spite of my humanity. I have been hanging on by my finger nails as God has revealed a glimpse of His power. Sunday night shook me to my core and caused me to come face to face with the scale of opportunity God will at times put in front of us. I mentioned in my last post that Jordan Sutherland was close to the Kingdom, well Sunday was the night he committed his life to Christ! Donald, his dad came home from sea on the Saturday and after spending an evening in their home talking with the family, everything was set for the following night. On the Sunday morning after worship I asked Jordan, Thomas, Rachel and Shaun to help with setting up for the night's service. As we began setting out the chairs in the fellowship hall, Jordan commented that we need to put out more chairs. I said there was plenty, but he wasn't so sure. It later became obvious that he was right and we had to put out a bunch of extra chairs! Wendy, Jordan's mum, had been busy inviting family and friends to come and witness Jordan's baptism. I didn't count, but I am sure there were around 50 visitors that night! When I opened the building and the visitors began streaming in, I was all of a sudden aware that something very different was taking place. The challenge from scripture came to my mind about being prepared to give an account for the hope we have. However, it took on a whole new meaning to me that night! As we began the service and I looked out at the sea of visitors I couldn't help thinking, are any of them believers and how will they react to tonight's events? In the end I silently prayed for God's hand to still my fears and for His Word to take hold of my tongue and for Him to take control. We began with some singing and this set the right tone as it sounded great. I had prepared to use a short video clip to introduce the lesson (feel free to enjoy it), titled, "It's Friday, But Sunday's coming!" I have to say my fears did grip me for a second, because it was to be a pretty challenging lesson and in light of all the visitors I was doubting a little, but again with a time of prayer as the clip was running I was able to ask God to conquer my fears and again use me mightily for His purpose. The message was pretty pointed and asked whether you live as though it were Friday, when the world was winning and sin was overcoming and death is triumphant or on the other hand, as if it were Sunday! When God raises Christ and He is triumphant over death, sin and the powers of this world. We were challenged to ask if we live in hope as we anticipate something better or live in fear and darkness as this world drags us under. We then looked at Jordan and what this decision meant to his outlook on life and what God has in store for him as he commits his life to the safety of His hand and to the pattern of Christ's life. Shaun led a prayer before we went through to share in the beauty of Jordan's baptism. I wish you could have heard his prayer! We took a little time sharing Jordan's journey leading to this point and commitment. Jordan is 15 years old and his testimony is already impacting lives! After I had the joy of taking Jordan's confession we went down into the water and came up as brother's in Christ! We sang a song and Thomas led a closing prayer. Again, I wish you could have heard Thomas' prayer! Shaun commented to me that it's no longer the dynamic duo, but the Three musketeers! God is doing amazing things!

I have to mention something about Donald and Wendy. I love the fact that they are delighted for what Jordan has done, but quietly I think God is working in their lives too! I am prayerful that it will not be too long before there are more Sutherland's added to the Lord's family :) Wendy is one of a kind! I am always uplifted when I am in her company. She has a big heart. I can't think of many people who could have invited so many people to come to church and for them to have come!!! Wendy obviously has a great influence for good in many peoples lives. I am starting to get to know Donald and I consider him a friend. I love his love for the young! His influence, especially with the teens, is pretty special. This last trip was a pretty long one and he shared how getting a bunch of comments on his facebook from the youth group changed his mood to being one of loneliness to one of being blessed!

I want to share another sunny story and again express my pride in how God is bringing about good in lives that draw near to Him. This has not been Rachel's best season in life these past months. She has had to deal with some tough circumstances and although there are times she has struggled I am delighted with the way she has made wise choices these past weeks. Her heart is eager to learn and she is genuinely considering the commitment of her life to Christ. I continue to pray that Thomas, Rachel's boyfriend, will continue to be the example he is to her and that they might share the joy of walking the same path in their journey through this life.

There is so much more! God is Great!

Expressions of faith

2011-03-09T21:45:00.010Z

This past while has been strewn with a proper mix of ups and downs. I want to start this out with the good news that we have finally been approved by the UK borders Agency to be sponsors for religious workers coming into the UK. This means that we are able to have JR and Daisha Sheets with their children Gideon and Naomi here in May to work with the congregation for 3 months. This will give us a good indication if there will, God willing, be the possibility of them coming for a longer term in the near future. They are a beautiful family and we are praying that we as a church and they as a family can work together to further the kingdom here in Peterhead. Please keep the Sheets family in your prayers as they make the final arrangements to visit with us. If you are in a position to help with their efforts and would like to give some funds you can do that via their web page: http://www.sheetstoscotland.blogspot.com/

I want to mention a couple of big things, expressions of faith, that has crossed my path this week. The first is a little snippet from Monday night with the primary school class. I came home pretty tired, because there had been a big group of kids and there were a group of 4 boys who were a handful and needed a firm hand. Fenella was asking me how it went and I started off telling her about the issues I had with these 4 boys and not long into the conversation it struck me, I had missed something huge that had happened during the class. When everyone was lined up ready for our prayer time Paul McLean motioned to catch my attention. Normally in the class Paul brings some DVD's that he thinks are good and we either give then a thumbs up or down (always ends up with thumbs up). This Monday was different. Paul didn't have DVD's, but he brought his new bible. He expressed that he wanted to read a bit before our prayer. So, he started reading. What you have to understand is that Paul doesn't form his words like we do and it can be a challenge to know what he is saying some times, but on Monday night there was complete silence as Paul "Read" from his bible and even though the children didn't know what Paul was saying they could understand that it meant a lot to him. When Paul had finished there was a big round of applause, spontaneously started by the kids. I now know that we had witnessed something pretty special and I am blessed, along with 30 others to have been there to hear Paul's expression of faith. My heart is full just recounting the story. I was so caught up in other issues during the class that I almost missed one of the most beautiful things of my week.

The second came about Last night. I got to the building at 10 past 6 to get our group underway. At 6.30 Jordan and CJ came to me and I heard those lovely words, "Billy can I talk to you?" You may not get the significance of what lies behind this simple question, but every time I hear those words and see the focused look in the eyes of the one asking, I know what is coming. We found a relatively quiet place and I listened to Jordan share how he is considering the commitment of his life to Christ! I am always humbled by the fact that I get to see and listen to a heart share how they have come to find their way back to God! Life does not get any better than that :) Our journey begins and God willing, Jordan can follow through with his commitment as we begin exploring what his commitment needs to be. I must share another angle to this chapter that is truly great. I mentioned that CJ came with Jordan to find me. Jordan is getting together with Shaun on Friday to study together. Shaun will share his journey to finding God with Jordan and help him make sense of his journey! That is AMAZING! CJ and Megan along with JP have all been instrumental in taking the opportunity to guide Jordan closer to finding God. I can only hold my hands up and say with all certainty that God is doing some pretty big things through the lives of these young, willing people who want to share what they know to be good. With all this in mind I must tell you of part of our class last night. I shared something that hit me last week with the group. I asked them if they were aware that if it were not for Christ, I wouldn't know any of them? They looked with questioning expressions at first, but then the penny dropped and they understood. I even went a bit further and asked what they thought it was that motivated me to persevere with some of them who, in the past, had been hard to work with. Again I was able to share that it was Christ in me. I put a comment on our youth facebook page last night in response to all that has gone on this week, "I look forward to seeing what the next "Ripple" of influence brings." It is truly inspiring when you see Christ being shared and shared again!

I mentioned that there are some downs at the beginning of this entry, but now all of a sudden they seem so insignificant I don't know that I even want to mention them :)

Let me finish by exalting God and again reminding us that, "He is Worthy!"

Building Bridges!

2011-02-24T13:29:00.003Z

Was motivated to write this because of a comment I got on our youth group page. It never ceases to amaze me how the Spirit works! Last night we had an amazing class time. There was 7 of us in my class and we started out talking about the bridges we build in our lives and the importance of making sure the bridges are getting us to the right places. You are never sure how a class will turn out. It was not long into the session that I realised we were being led on a path that took our connection with each other and toward God much deeper that normal. We talked about our relationships being bridges between each other and the importance of being connected to the right people. We talked about how we bring the best out of each other and looked back at the time we started building the bridges into each others lives. Stuart kicked things of talking about the most important bridge being the one that leads to God and Shaun followed up talking about how in the church you find the best bridges. We talked about the youth classes and their purpose being to build bridges into the community. Lewis talked about the bridge I made into Central School many years ago being the one that started his journey with us over 8 years ago! Ryan talked about how important the relationships with the group had helped him through this past few months of having to deal with the loss of his Granada. Thomas talked about our faith being an important bridge and reminded us about the path being one way that leads to Heaven. We talked about the bridges people build that lead to the wrong destination and the bridges we need to break down in our own lives. The time was gone before we knew it and there was a very telling end to our class that showed just how deep we had gone. Shaun suggested that we all take part in the prayer to end our time. Not all were confident enough to take part, but Shaun, Thomas, Stuart and Ryan all opened their hearts to God. There is no more powerful example of the work of the Holy Spirit than seeing a group of young men, who have had to find their own faith, desire to draw close to God. I am humbled and joyful that He is doing marvelous things!

I want to share what went on last Sunday night at our 3rd Sunday! We decided to centre the time around the songs that make us sing! I asked a bunch to tell me their favorite song and to explain why it was important to them. It was not long before they started pouring in! Shaun and Thomas were very keen to get involved, when challenged, to get up and share their favorites at the meeting. Thomas was first up and talked about "Anywhere with Jesus," being one of his. He talked about our faith being an "all times faith" and not simply a Sunday thing. He did great and was followed by Shaun who talked about "Make me a Servant." Shaun shared of his new found desire to serve in the classes and influence the younger children with the good news of God. Thomas shared a second in "Walking on Heavens Road" and talked about the importance of baptism in making sure you are on the right road and warned of the danger in thinking you can have a foot in both camps! Shaun came up and shared his love for "Listen to our Hearts." Shaun focused on the importance of thanking God for the "Way, the Truth and the Life!" It is never easy to follow after them. I am proud with a Godly pride at how they are allowing God to use them. I shared one of my favorites, "I am a sheep" and mentioned Psalm 100. I talked about having the blessing of singing "praise" to God. My dad talked about the time he was standing on the shores of the Sea of Galilee and as he was looking at the stones, said, "What if these stones could speak!" His song was, "There is beyond the azure Blue - Our God He is Alive!" We had a time for favorites and enjoying singing. Amy sang, "Amazing Grace!" It was tough to follow Shaun and Thomas, but that was nothing compared to having to get up and talk after Amy sang! She was beautiful! All I could muster to say was, "That's what your voice was made to do!" The night came to a close and I have no doubt, going by the comments afterward, that everyone received a blessing and God was glorified!

A couple of other little "tasty morsels" in finishing up this entry. I had the joy of sharing some good times in school assemblies this last week. I shared a lesson on the importance of keeping each other clean and not being the cause of someone to be dirty. I used an object lesson with two white shirts, one that I had covered in dirt and ripped and another perfectly white and clean. I asked what their reaction would have been if I had came to assembly wearing the dirty ripped shirt. The response was great! In essence they told me they would have expected better! I was then able to ask them, "In light of your behaviour and attitude toward others how clean are you?" Toward the end of the lesson I made a charge to the P7's to be sure that they are the "cleanest" in the school and setting the standard for the younger ones coming up behind them. Of course, at the core of the lesson was God's desire that we look to Him as the source of all things clean and good. I love having this opportunity to help the young ones catch a glimpse of God's goodness and love. Talking about assemblies, I got our schedule for our campaign in June filled up yesterday! The exciting news is we will be visiting 8 schools (possibly 9 waiting for reply).

On Monday night we had a blast! The younger kids had a treat waiting for them. I managed to arrange with the St Combs Ice Cream man to meet up with a bunch of ice cream. I got various sauces and toppings to make it a bit special. They were delighted and there is a strong possibility we will have to make this a monthly deal. All 27 kids, 5 teens and 2 adults had plenty and there was still a little left over for seconds! Monday nights are fun with the right balance of focus.

Well, there you have it - in a nutshell: God is good!

Made to Smile!

2011-02-08T09:12:00.008Z

Have to share why I will be smiling all week! From time to time you come across people who stand out for whatever reason. There are a certain two young ladies who crossed my path, probably 6 years ago. We had not seen them for two years since they moved overseas to Italy. Well, on Sunday morning we go the shock of our lives when they walked into Sunday School! Alexandra and Lucia Culley are two of the most radiant young girls you are likely to meet. I had not realised how much I had missed them until they walked through the door :) Nina and I were talking in one of the classrooms, just before Sunday school was to begin and I don't know who's jaw dropped the most as they passed the door! What joy!!! I feel I must apologise to Paula, their mum and Jonathon, their brother who were also there. Jonathan is now grown up and very different to the toddler we remember leaving for Italy. Paula is doing a fantastic job with her family and being able see them all again was a rich blessing and it has truly put a smile on my face that will be there constantly throughout the week. During Sunday school we just sat and talked about their life in Italy and what they have been doing. I have to comment about Lucia, I would love to have some kind of counter to record how many words she spoke in that short 40 minutes or so that was Sunday school. She was captivating! A few times we had to plead with her to let Alexandra talk for herself and share some of her life too. We had the best time and before we knew it, it was 10.45 and time for me to go and pick up Thomas for church. Time flies when the company is this good. Last night we had the joy of seeing them again at our Monday night class. This time it was Jonathan who stole the show. I was so glad to see him get stuck in and enjoy the class. On the Sunday morning he was a bit shy and strange of seeing everyone. However, that was not the case on Monday! He never stopped smiling the whole night - joy! The girls had a blast too and I will especially remember them playing the old favorite, "Knights and Cavaliers." It was so good to see them as a part of our group again. I must admit I am a little sad at the thought of them all having to leave us again, but I am so blessed and proud of the way they are growing and have such lovely hearts - true beauty!

We have had a full few weeks. I have to comment on the growth of our teens. I am so proud of the way they are taking more leadership roles, especially when it comes to Monday and Wednesday nights. I was talking with Fenella yesterday and making the point that on Monday night I am the only "old" person. All the other helpers are between the age of 17 and 21! We have reason to look forward with hope at what God will do through these willing young adults! C.J, Megan, Brittany, Shaun and Stuart have been excellent this term. The young kids who come on Monday nights are blessed because of their examples. The class has grown this term and it is down to the atmosphere that has been created by these young lives and the willingness of the children to invite their friends to come and enjoy! I am also delighted to have Thomas come with me to Crimond school and to Anna Ritchie. We make a great team! Our time at Crimond is brilliant! Since Alex left to go back home I needed someone to help with the school and Thomas is more than willing to help - good times!

It was my joy to preach this pas Sunday morning. The journey of preparing for it was especially deep. The journey began early in the week when I was very aware of not having my usual energy and motivation to bless. I felt weighed down and sluggish in Spirit. It was then I was convicted to face the reality that Satan was stealing my joy. I spent a chunk of time meditating and in prayer over this and came to the realisation that I had not prayed in a long time for God to," keep the evil one far from me." This became my motivation for what we shared on Sunday morning. The lesson was focused on Jesus teaching his disciples to pray and especially the closing line, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." How often we forget to ask God's help in keeping Satan far from us! I know this was timely in my life and there was a reaction from many of the congregation, God's word is active and convicting! Well, that's my little confession time, hope it moves you all to think about the activity of Satan in distracting you from the will and relationship of our Father.

I had the pleasure of going down to Cumbernauld with a group of men from Peterhead to a their men's day. We enjoyed a feast of great lessons through four very different lives. The theme was reminding us of the fact that we are all pilgrims in this land and our sights are set on another kingdom. It was a long day, but a full day!

I will close this with some fatherly pride! Beth and Amy both continue to show outstanding ability in their love for music. Beth got her grade 7 oboe marks back and achieved a mark of 143/150! This is truly an outstanding mark and one of the highest the school has known. Beth is really blossoming with her oboe and her music is a real passion in her life. Amy also got her grade 8 singing. Amy got the outstanding grade of 136/150! Fenella and I get the joy of going down this week to hear Amy sing at the Fife Festival. It will be lovely to hear her, but the truth is that now she is living in Edinburgh the singing is secondary and the hug takes pride of place. Anyway, needles to say Fenella and I are very proud of our daughters.

God bless!

What if I had given everything...

2011-01-19T21:38:00.012Z

There's always something exciting about the start of a new year! This is my first entry for 2011 and I am delighted with how things have started this year. This is our second week of classes being back at church and the kids have been great. There is a really good feel to how we have kicked off this year. We have new faces come to our primary school age class on Monday night's, it is always a good indicator when the kids bring a friend along for the first time and this is true of Nichole who brought her friend Melissa for the first time. Monday nights continue to be both an amazing outreach for the younger kids, but also a magic training ground for the older teens. The teens are showing great signs of involvement and are having a big impact on the atmosphere created on Monday's - great stuff!!! Wednesday night's are flourishing again. Tonight we had an outstanding class! We come together at 6.15 and have a 45 minutes to hang out and play some games or get creative with some card making. At 7.00 we settle down and have a time of singing, tonight was memorable. We sang for quite a bit longer than usual, it seemed that every time we would say this would be the last song there would be someone asking for another and everyone was still engaged in the songs. After we did our "Bible Quick Draw" the time was 7.40! We didn't have time to start what I had intended to share so we looked through some old slide shows of old VBS' and Scavenger Hunts, the group had the best time reminiscing old memories and giggling at how young they looked back then. It may not have been what I had planned for the night, but the end result was rich.

I want to focus a moment on our Friday night's. The past 2 classes have been excellent! I have to say that the lessons have been amazing and the response has been equally so. The first week back we talked about what we see in the mirror. We looked at 3 perspectives - how we see ourselves, how others see us and most importantly how God sees us. We had a bit of fun with some of the observations, but when it came to the deeper issue of what God sees there was such a focus in the group. They are desperate to be seen as someone of value and importance. There were a number of noticeable reactions and I had one older teen confess some of his past actions that he was caused to face up to as a result of the lesson. God's word was active and hearts were softened. Last Friday the lesson again reached the group and hit the target. I asked the question, "Are you Motivated or simply going through the Motions." I played a song by Matthew West called "The Motions" which had been set to a simple animated movie. The first time i watchedthe animation I was sold and related totally to the message. It was when the black ball of fluff is touched by the red ball and in turn begins to bounce around impacting other black balls and turning them red also that touched a cord in my heart. The line in the song that said, "I don't wanna spend my whole life askin what if I had given everything!" That line has stuck with me and on Friday night the lesson was powerful. I know the group were challenged to question their values and what motivated them. I have no doubt that again the Spirit was softening their young hearts to "HEAR" the words of life.

On Sunday night we had our 3rd Sunday. I have to confess that I was feeling rather spent before the weekend came around, but even in my weakness I was the benefactor of strength that came from above. Paul's words come to mind, "When I am weak, then I am strong." I shared a lesson on, "Why we look forward to the New Year." We shared the principle of our need for re-birth and forgiveness and that New Year is a time we try to forget what is behind and focus on what is in front of us. I spoke from the heart about my need for the hope that comes from being forgiven and how I couldn't imagine going from day to day without having the assurance that my failings and guilt had been taken care off. It was again evidence for me that God can use a broken earthen vessel to share priceless and timeless truths about His grace and mercy.

There has been a change in our 3rd Sunday's. I used to spend ages phoning around trying to get the teens there, to now seeing them come of their own free will. We have a great bunch of Christian youth and another bunch seeking and faithfully coming to hear and see. It is true reason to anticipate that this will be a good year - God willing!

I must also mention our "Watchnight Service." This is a long held tradition in Peterhead that we meet at 11.30 on the eve of the New Year and see in the New Year with a time of worship and fellowship. This year we were able to share the occasion with a bunch of the youth. Everyone commented how refreshing it was to have been a part of it. We had some sweet mince pies and other refreshments while enjoying a time of fellowship. Everyone wished each other "All the best for 2011." Afterward we had the youth down to our house for some fun. We finally had to kick them out at 4.00 in the morning! We really enjoyed the night and the youth made some good memories to start off the New Year with.

My work in the schools has got off to a flyer! This afternoon I was filling my diary with all my school commitments and assembly dates for the term and I am overwhelmed at the opportunity I am afforded! I think back to the first contact with Central school and look at how again, God finds use for a broken earthly vessel - He is Good! One exciting thing that happened as I was arranging my assembly dates with the schools was two of them were planning into next term because they didn't want to miss out in getting the Campaign group! It was obvious that a great impression had been made last June with the newly formed group made up from within UK churches. We have already got the ball rolling for this years campaign and anticipate great things!

Just a quick word in closing about Fenella's mum Alexa. Alexa went into hospital last week for a hip replacement. On the whole, Everything has gone well and she is now home recovering. Fenella has been tirelessly going back and forth to Aberdeen to be with her mum and has been amazing. No doubt Fenella will be playing a very active part in Alexa's rehabilitation over the coming weeks.

God Bless!

Cheerio Alex... "Haste ye Back!"

2010-12-29T15:36:00.003Z

On Sunday 12th December we had a special meeting in recognition of Alex time with us at Peterhead. It was a delight to see everyone attend the farewell send off for Alex. There were many young and elderly, a fitting tribute to the way Alex touched the lives of all generations. We began with a time of singing, which of course is what Alex enjoys most. We sang a selection of his favorite songs. After the singing we watched a slide-show of photo's that portrayed Alex time with us. This was great! It became clear that almost every photo had Alex either doing something silly or making others laugh. Alex had an ability to see the funny things in life. He made it a priority to lift others and help them see the joy in life. We had a couple of film clips in the show. The first was the, "Face plant." If you know Alex, you will have seen this video clip. It was taken during a Harding campaign, when we took a day out to Rattray Beach - famous for it's sand dunes. This clip was followed by one of Alex competing against Brittany in a race to spin as fast as you can while wrapping yourself in toilet roll. The winner was the one who finished the roll first. Off course half way through the race Alex flies off at a tangent and falling over because he is so dizzy! Well, needless to say everyone was smiling after the slide show.

Next on the agenda was was a time for everyone to say something publicly about a memory they have of Alex. Thomas began the compliments with many following with their kind regards for the times Alex had touched their life. I shares some heart felt truths about why I would miss Alex. Alex then responded and passionately talked for a while. At the beginning after making the statement, "I am going to miss you all." Alex broke down for a minute and showed the impact the Church has had on his life.

We then presented Alex with a chorus book. Shaun Main has made the suggestion that we get everyone to leave a comment in the song book, knowing how much singing from it had meant to Alex. The book was full of personal notes of thanks and encouragement for all. I took the book to Anna Ritchie School for the boys who we played football with, to sign it. I have no doubt Alex will treasure this gift. Many gave Alex a gift of money to help with settling back into life in America. The congregation also gave a token gift of money to help a little too.

After the meeting we stayed to enjoy a time of fellowship around a cup of tea and some biscuits. There is no doubt that we will miss Alex and the place will won't be the same without his unique involvement. We wish Alex God's blessing as he endeavours to rejoin life in America and begin a new chapter in his life. Take care brother!

Blitz

2010-12-21T15:32:00.008Z

Here goes nothing... I have left this way too late! I am going to attempt to remember all that has been of value since the last entry. Where to begin??? I will begin with the most precious first. It has been lovely having all our girls home these past days. I had the joy of going down to get Amy on the 20th. The joy of hearing her sing with the Fife Opera was priceless. Fenella has sent the file of her solo to some of you I'm sure - it is amazing. Beth got an early Christmas break due to the weather conditions meaning the boarding had to be closed. We were hoping to have Beth's new oboe here for her to try before Christmas, but since it was coming up from Glasgow that was not possible, again due to the snow. All of us were ready to be together and have some family time. Holly and Hannah were especially delighted to have their big sisters home. We were able to be together for Amy's 19th birthday and the girls had fun decorating Amy's birthday cakes. Speaking about birthdays, it was Holly and Hannah's 10th birthday on the 4th of December! They are most definitely growing up - FAST! Christmas was really fine this year. We did most of the prep for the dinner on Xmas eve, so on the day there was just the cooking. We shared the day with Fenella's mum and dad and from start to finish it truly was a good day! No stress or struggle, just good company and joy. Fenella has been off work this past week and we have had a couple of days out, mainly through to Aberdeen to do some shopping with the girls to spend their Xmas money on some clothes. Looking forward to this week before Amy leaves for Edinburgh and Beth leaves for Dyce. We are BLESSED!

In the past month there has been some cool things happen at church. I will mention as many as I can remember. I will begin with our night to show the over 60's in church we care for them. A

bunch of the younger (under 60's) did all the cooking and organising. Alex and I were responsible for the entertainment and a bunch did the food and decoration. The meal was lovely - a full Christmas dinner with ALL the trimmings! We fed around 40 of our faithful brothers and sisters in Christ. After the food we enjoyed two games together - "Countdown" and "Family Fortune." This went down well and everyone had a bit of fun in good company. I have to mention the input of the teens. There were about 15 teens there to help serve and make the night memorable. It was a good night and everyone went away full in every sense of the word.

During December we organised a Tour of some of the nursing homes to do some carol singing. We originally planned 4 homes to visit, but due to snow conditions, we only made it to 3 of them. We had the most excellent time! There was a bunch at each of the homes, with as much as 20 in some! We sang our hearts out and it was obvious that the elderly residents enjoyed the singing and especially the joy that came from the group. The group was pretty varied, we had some as young as 6 right through to some in their 60's, all singing together for the encouragement of others - beautiful! After about 45 minutes singing we would have a prayer and would then give the home a gift. The gift was rather special. In Sunday School we made rocking chairs out of clothes pegs and made cute snowmen out of cotton balls to sit on the chair. They were received with great delight. We also gave them a picture that portrayed a Christmas theme also made by the children on Wednesday nights. I was very thrilled to see the number that came to each of the homes, but more thrilling was their joy that they came to share - Memorable!

We had a lot of fun with the young ones at our Christmas party and also during our outing to Aberdeen. On the 6th December we took the young classes through to see the movie "Megamind." Before the movie we all went for something to eat at Burger King. This trip was a plan B, since we had to cancel our much anticipated trip to the Chocolate Factory due to the snow and bad road conditions. Although the kids were a bit disappointed at the change we still had a great night out and it was a fine treat for them. It is good to do this from time to time to show we care. Our party was a blast! From the start at 6.30 all the way to 8.00pm there was fun and laughter. We didn't get through all the games we had planned, but in everything the purpose was to get the kids laughing and share a good time - Mission Accomplished!

We took the teens out on the 22nd December. This again was our second attempt due to the snow and poor road conditions. We were due to go on the 17th, but postponed till 22nd. The night was fantastic!!! This is the 3rd year we have done this. We leave at 4.00pm and half of the group go bowling while the other half play football at an indoor pitch, myself of course, getting stuck into the football match! We then meet up at Pizza Hut to enjoy some food and fellowship, ands then on to the movies to see, "Narnia - Voyage of the Dawn Treader." I love these outings - they are indicators of the groups growth and joy of being together away from home. There was never a raised voice, other than in fun, and I have nothing but praise for the behaviour and attitude of the group. In fact, when I got home I had a comment on my FB from Andrew Stars which read, "Thought you'd want to know that my manager said you were all a delight to serve and the kids in the youth group were patient and polite and no fuss at all, which is rare for a table of that size! So you're welcome back at any time :)" It is always good when those observing can see what you see! There were 24 of us on the trip. My dad and John Campbell came to help out. The only down side was our surprise at coming out from the movie and finding that about 6 inches of snow had fallen! We took it easy going home and finally got home at 12.00!

Throughout all this activity there has been numerous bible classes and teaching opportunities. I don't know how close many are to the kingdom, but I'm excited for 2011!

Reason to lift up our Eyes

2010-11-19T15:31:00.005Z

I have been reminded today that it is so important to enjoy and notice the happy times along the way. Yes, we feel the pain and burdens of those we are close too, but it is so important when sharing pain to see joy in other situations. I was thinking about the passage when Jesus made the statement, "When I am lifted up from the world will draw all men to myself." I was pondering the idea that it's almost like Jesus is telling us that He is taking the pain and burden of this fallen world on his shoulders as he is raised up on the cross and He is giving us opportunity to lift our eyes upward, away from the mess of this world and looking to the source of hope and salvation. It is so important that in times of pain there is reason and purpose to lift our eyes upward. Jesus is that reason and hope.

Anyway, I just wanted to share some of my joy this week. I have literally been in the door an hour since being hugely encouraged. Friday afternoons are spent at Anna Ritchie School. Alex and I get to play football with around 20 kids. Anna Ritchie is a special school! Every Friday it is like a safe haven and filling station. To be accepted and included into their lives in the way we are is a beautiful thing. This afternoon we went to the school and the weather was pretty poor, so we were planning on going indoors for our session. When we signed in and went to the hall we were met with a bunch of music amps and microphones and it was obvious that we were not going to have the use of the hall. I started to go around the classes explaining to the boys that we would have to cancel because there was nowhere to play and the look of dismay on their faces was so sad. I decided to have a quick check outside just in case the rain had stopped and would you believe it - it had! There was smiles and cheers as we relayed the news that we were going ahead with the game. If you haven't picked up on it yet the game today was extraordinary. Every goal scored was truly amazing and not in keeping with the norm. There was so much smiles and joy as goal after goal went in, Alex and I both knew this was a day to remember. The score finished at 8-6. In the midst of this Lucas scored a hat trick of the highest quality! Afterward I gestured a thanks to Alex for deliberately missing a save on his last goal which was with his head and Alex said there was no way he was going to spoil Lucas' moment to shine.

This is one of the reasons why I love the kingdom! To have the desire to lift people up and to share nothing but encouragement and support. It is a joy to serve in the community and especially in the school's with the children. It is a constant reminder that God is active and we always have times of refreshing and opportunity to lift our eyes and hearts Christ ward.

The photo's are from our bunch at Crimond School. Every Tuesday afternoon we have the joy of working with these kids. I do enjoy football, but I LOVE the opportunity to influence and touch lives with the motivation that comes from knowing Christ!

God Bless!

Words don't come easy...

2010-11-08T13:27:00.004Z

This entry is not going to be an easy one. There are times when you have to weigh up the for's and against's for sharing information via this avenue. I know there are many, who given the chance, would be supportive and prayerful about our church, but I am also aware that this is a public site and can be viewed by anyone, therefore I cannot share all that is in my heart via this entry. I can honestly say the past week has been hard. We have been faced by circumstances that I wouldn't have dreamt possible in a small town like Peterhead. I would ask that everyone reading this would pray for our church. When you come face to face with the brokenness and falleness of this creation and see the evidence and extent to which evil can overcome and control a person, it makes you want to run all the more keenly into the arms of our Father. This is as much as I can share.

There has been grief within our Youth group these past days too. Ryan, Stuart, Claire, Stephen and Kevin, The Geddes', lost their Granada this past week. It was obvious that he was a great man. His passing has devastated their young lives and shows the extent of how much love there was between them all. Again, I would ask for prayers for this family. We have had a strong connection with the Geddes' over the years and I have to say that their lives have shown much growth and faithfulness toward the kingdom. I'm glad to have had the opportunity to be there for them through this hard time.

Although there has been some dark and trying times here and my mindset may have been tainted as a result, I can't deny that there has been much happiness and joy running alongside this. Last Monday night we had a "Sugar and Spice and All things Nice" party with the younger kids who come on a Monday and Wednesday night. As you can see from the pictures they put in the effort to dress up well! Note also the "Dynamic Duo" of Alex and myself. Alex made a fantastic "Batman" outfit and I came as "Pic & Mix." From the start to the finish we had non stop fun and laughter! It was a chance to enjoy the occasion and just make smiles! We went to a lot of effort to make it a memorable night for the kids and I am confident we succeeded. We made sure everybody went home happy and full of joy, and heavy laden with chocolate! We had a hunt for the golden ticket which was won by Megan, who received the "Month supply of Chocolate." I spoke to her mum, Alison the next day, who was delighted at the bundle of chocolate Megan came home with and hopes to share in the prize!

This past Wednesday night was special! I had asked Shaun the week before to do the prayer for this week, this would have been his first public prayer. When we got started I foolishly forgot about asking Shaun to do it and said the prayer. I forgot with good motives though, my heart was full on behalf of the Geddes' and in my desire to bring them before God's throne, I left Shaun on the bench. However, at the end of the classes we got everyone through and Shaun closed in prayer. I was so humbled by his sincerity and depth in his prayer. After a nervous first few words, his sentiments were truly beautiful. There is something special about being able to witness a heart communicating with their God - a true Joy!

Well, a little note about the plates we are juggling at the moment. We have our meal for the over 60's on the 27th November. Alex and I have to come up with an hour and a half of entertainment. We have an outing with the primary age children to a chocolate factory on 6th December and an outing with the teens on 17th December to Aberdeen. We are also taking a group on the 16th November to a football match in Aberdeen between Scotland and Faeroe Isles. My head is full of events and places to be - crazy, but great!

I have not mentioned anything about the bulk of my ministry in the schools, but know that this term they are going great and the opportunity is very much the same and I am working with some great groups of children. Time is truly flying and every day with the exception of Wednesday I have the joy of being in front of Children with the opportunity to share goodness and God!

As I am writing this there is an overwhelming reality that in December we will be saying goodbye to Alex. I try not to stress about this too much, but the reality is going to be tough. The gap that Alex fills at present will be very tough to fill. I have hopes that our own teens will go some way to closing the gap, but the reality is I am going to miss Alex, greatly! His personality and presence will cause a void here! With this in mind I again request your prayers. We are growing and active and will soon be a man down! Please pray for the right people to be sent, or raised up for the continued good of the kingdom here.

We had a visit last weekend from dear friends. Chrissy and Robin Vick and Jenny Johnson came up for the weekend. It is always good to spend time with those who are desiring to make a difference in this world. It is good to know they are just down the road and not on a whole different continent! All three friends have had an impact in Peterhead and have touched lives here for the good.

Just a note on our family. This weekend we were all home!!! Amy came up from Edinburgh and Beth was home from Dyce! I LOVE my girls! I am so proud of the way they are living their lives and continuing to make good choices. I am not the most expressive of men, but I know in my heart that I am a blessed man and the smile I have on the inside is greatly the work of my girls.

This entry has been tough to put into words, but I hope you get the message.

God bless!

Another - Something Special!

2010-10-18T13:32:00.002+01:00

In this entry I want to focus on what went on during our 3rd Sunday night! I had spent a bit of time with Thomas and Shaun challenging them to be involved with the lesson for Sunday night. When we went through the plan for the lesson they both decided to share the reading of Psalm 40:1-4. Thomas would take the first two verses and Shaun would take the second two. Each of them prepared something to say in relation to their section of the Psalm.

We had our customary cup of tea and fellowship before the meeting. It was especially good to see Donald and Ethan come along! I must admit I was quietly delighted to see them come in because I knew this would be a lesson that would make an impression on Donald's heart. I remember telling Thomas and Shaun, before the meeting that even though I preached for 30 minutes and they for only 2 or 3, I would guarantee the audience will remember their contribution far more that mine! John Campbell led the singing and welcomed everyone and the whole time before the lesson I was feeling quite nervous, but not for myself - it was for my two young companions!

At the beginning we shared some photo's of the Chilean Miners rescue and talked about how the events being covered on the news had impacted us. We then talked about the parallel between the rescue mission and the plan of salvation. There were some great points expressed and one moment I loved. Betty Hepburn, a faithful Christian for more than 60 years and a huge encourager made a comment about her getting on her knees to thank God for the deliverance of these miners on the other side of the world. Betty also made an amazing declaration of faith when she courageously shared about her choice all those years ago to accept Christ and how her life has been so rich as a result - when Betty speaks there is instant RESPECT! Her words touched everyone there because everyone has been touched by Betty's life for the good.

Well, after all that we watched a clip of footage from the rescue mission and focused on what the miners said on their T-shirts, their willingness to give God all the honour and glory for sustaining them throughout the 69 days and for their deliverance! It was now time for Thomas and Shaun to share some comments on Psalm 40 in respect of their own lives. Thomas spoke of his relating to the Psalm and how his life was once dark and lost, but since his decision to become a Christian things have turned around in his life. Shaun spoke of his new found ability to put his trust in the church and in God as a result of the godly influence he has found in Christian's since coming in contact with us. I was truly blown away! I struggled to get myself engaged in the conclusion of the lesson, but found strength from knowing that we had seen 1st hand the evidence of faith and the work of the Spirit in these two young men! At the conclusion of the lesson I asked the question, "Why on earth would you not want to be rescued from the filth and darkness of the pit?

It was obvious that we had been a part of something good! Everyone stayed for a good while after and expressed their thanks for the lesson and gave much encouragement to Thomas and Shaun!

Between this entry and the one before I can only give thanks to our Father for the inexpressible riches that are ours, because we are His!

Special Wedding!

2010-10-18T13:03:00.003+01:00

Weddings are always special times, but every once in a while one comes along that just stands out a little more. Saturday night was one of those weddings. The bride, previously known as Miss Green, has had a huge influence in the lives of Amy and Beth in regard to their music. Rachel Gill (Miss Green) asked both Amy and Beth to take part in her wedding ceremony, along with three other of her music pupils. Beth had the huge honour of playing the bride down the isle to the tune of "Gabriel's oboe," a gorgeous piece of music, and played it beautifully! Amy had the honour of singing "The Prayer" at the reception, her performance was breathtaking! Fenella and I were extremely proud of our girls and once again we were faced with the joy of knowing our girls can produce such beauty - they are truly blessed!

Anyway, forgive me in sharing my little bit of pride with you all. There are times it just needs to be shared!

God bless!

What did the miners in Chile say on their shirts?

2010-10-16T00:11:00.001+01:00

Planning to use this clip this coming Sunday night as part of our third Sunday Gospel lesson. Thought I would give you a sneek peek! Will share more soon about how the lesson went!

Moving Along Nicely - God Willing

2010-10-04T09:21:00.007+01:00

It's Monday morning and before things get too occupied I will try to get you all up to speed with what has been going on here. I want to begin with an overall statement. There are times in ministry when things are confusing and there is strain and even frustration when things don't happen as quickly or in the way "I" want them to. There has been a sense of calm these past weeks and the evidence of growth is obvious. There is a real air of belonging occurring within the older kids. I am always cautious now when things are going well and slow to look too far ahead, because things can change quickly and the foundation you thought was there may not be. I am gradually learning to be thankful for the times there is growth and also for the times there are challenges. It is through the trying times that our love and care is best displayed and afterward the evidence of growth is more obvious. Anyway, I wanted to begin with sharing the fact that we are growing.

At the beginning of this term we made a conscious decision to spend more time one on one with the teens if there was opportunity. I want to say that this may be the reason why there is an obvious growth spurt, but I am not sure yet. All I know is that Alex and I have tried to spend one or two morning/afternoons a week with whoever wants to meet up. We usually meet for coffee and either play snooker or tennis. There are usually 4 teens, Thomas, Shaun, Stuart and Ryan who are able to meet. We want the teens to know we are there for them and want them to know we are committed to their lives and their faith. I am constantly weighing up the question of whether we are simply "playing" with the boys or if there is in reality opportunity for deeper relationship and in turn opportunity for Christ to be more real to them. I am settled in thinking that the latter is the case and pray that in committing this time with their young lives will reap a harvest for the kingdom in due time. A couple of weeks ago we spent a morning setting up a "Facebook" page for our youth group. This has been a huge success and I am so dalighted at the comments and encouragment being shared through this avenue. If you want to see it you will have to recieve an invite from us before you can join. We wanted to keep it private so the youth can feel they own it. The page name is "Peterhead Church of Christ Youth Group."

I am prayerful that we are able to spread into family territory through our work with the youth. There is one family who are drawing closer and, God willing, will continue taking steps nearer to the kingdom. They have two sons, one of which is coming to the Friday night teen class. His dad has stayed the past two classes and is loving the time with the group.

Last weekend our church held it's annual "Social" where Christians come from all over the country to spend the day with us. The hall was full! The day consisted of food, Fellowship and worship. We had invited Bert Ritchie from the church in Colraine, N.Ireland to preach - he is one of my favorite preachers! He spoke about the reality of change and our need to embrace and serve within it. The church was encouraged and challenged! The day was a joy, and in spite of much labour behind the scenes getting everyone fed physically, no-one left without being filled Spiritually.

We had a group helping the church for two weeks. The "Sojourners" a group of retired and able workers came over, rolled their sleeves up and got busy doing work around the building. I was able to spend a little bit of time with them and was blessed by their desire to serve. They were a great encouragement to many in our congregation. Michael and Alex Shonie were the ones taking care of the group and as well as putting them to work balanced things out with a trip to the beautiful Isle of Skye. There is no doubt the group left an impression on the congregation for good.

We had a bit of fun with the kids on Saturday. We hired the swimming pool and had a blast! There was a bunch there and a few of the kids who come invited a friend to come as a way of introducing them to the church and potentially sparking some interest in coming to classes at the church. For an hour and a half we just laughed and enjoyed pure fun! There was a huge inflatable obstacle course that we all battled to conquer. For the last half hour we moved to the diving board and played "chicken." You had to copy what the last person does or else jump off acting and sounding like a chicken. There were 5 parents there and we were able to show how Christan's care and enjoy life. The time passed too fast, but there were plenty memories made and memories make for great talking points. As long as I am on the topic of fun, I have shared some funny pics of our "Fluffy Bunny" challenge on Wednesday night.

One last comment about yesterday. It was my joy to preach in the morning. I loved the challenge from preparing the lesson. We shared an insight into what motivated Paul to serve the way he did. We looked at 2 Corinthians 5 and saw how Paul was motivated by, The hope of Heaven, The goal of pleasing Christ, The reality of Judgment, The compelling Love of Jesus and the Great commission to share the ministry of Reconciliation! God worked through my heart and His word was active!

God Bless!

Silence isn't Golden!

2010-09-17T11:56:00.003+01:00

The photo's are of a basket that Holly and Hannah made for their sister. We had fun making it and Amy loves it!

These past couple of weeks have been tough! We got Amy down to Edinburgh and had to say goodbye, knowing that this goodbye was all together different. Fenella helped Amy get her room fixed up and put the "car LOAD" of things away. Meanwhile I was sent out to get pots and pans, cups, plates and cutlery! We assumed that the halls would have provided all the essentials, but that was not the case. So, here I am wondering the streets of Edinburgh at 8.00pm trying to find a shop that sell this kind of stuff. A while later I returned triumphant from the quest! We then went for something to eat and after having made sure everything was well with Amy, we set out for home. I am writing this over a week since we left Amy and it is now that we are truly feeling the effects and size of what has just happened. No longer do we have to close the dining room door to dampen the volume of Amy's voice when she would sit at the piano and practice. The house is a lot quieter and the sound of music is not as evident. Anyway, we can't stop time and the truth is that Amy was ready for this stage of her life. She is doing a fine job of getting settled and finding new friends and new opportunities to use her gift of song. Hyvots Bank have become her new church family and we are thankful!

This morning is the first chance I have had to sit and really think about what's going on. Last week was a blur and I remember constantly praying the same prayer before having to teach or work with a group. I would pray that God find something useful from the chaos in my heart. This past week has been one of the fullest I can remember. I had the joy of teaching 6 school assemblies and having 4 after school activities as well as the classes at church and spending some time one one one with some of our young Christians. The amazing thing is that the strength was always there to keep going. I am not saying this for you to be impressed with my work rate, but to recognise the truth that we must rely on God's strength and in His mighty power. For me, this week I got a glimpse of what can be done when we allow God the room to provide from His mighty power. Let me quickly add that this is not the "norm" in my life, but I want it to be!

I want to finish up wit a couple of quick comments about Friday and Sunday night. Friday night we had an amazing class with the teens. Alex and I were blessed with 16 teens who were there to listen and participate. We talked about Romans 1:25 about "Exchanging the truth of God for a lie." We asked the question, "What are some of the lies this world has put in the place of God?" All three discussion groups had excellent points and the sharing at the end was inspirational. We were honest and talked about the danger of replacing God with the pleasure and addiction that comes from sex, drink, drugs, and money. There were also concerns about the role of scientific thinking, especially in light of our TV's being full of the corruption and foolishness coming from the likes of Stephen Hawkins and Richard Dawkins. In all 10.00pm came too quickly. The class was good! On Sunday night Alex and I shared our 3rd Sunday. We wanted to tie in the "Hands" that we have been putting all round the Fellowship hall. We decided to use an old acronym I had from a class with Dan Stockstill, Hugs Affirmation Need Develop. Alex did a great job with the first two and I took the last two. At the beginning we got many of the older Christians to get their hands covered in paint and add to the number of hands on the wall. The atmosphere was really good and the message we were able to share was powerful, again stressing the previous point of God's power.

I am away to meet up with Alex and Shaun Main for coffee to talk about what we will do with tonight's class.

"Finally, brothers, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power."

Taking the Time to Notice!

2010-09-06T09:11:00.004+01:00

Thought I would make a few comments about this weekend. You just never know what opportunities you will encounter! For some reason it hit me this weekend the variety and depth of opportunity God places in our paths. I have been humbled, frustrated, proud, delighted, disappointed and useful all in the space of a weekend.

I was humbled on Sunday as Fenella the girls and I went to visit Ian and Avril Bowie from Cullen. We found out that Ian's health was in bad shape. We were able to spend a wee while in their home and find out that Ian has cancer in his bowel. His state of mind was exemplary and his outlook is very positive. It is humbling to not have the answers. Ian and Avril have been a refuge and safe haven for many in times of deep despair. Here again they are facing challenging times. It was good to listen to Ian share his confidence that God is his reason to face this cancer with hope. We were able to share a time in prayer and eventually tear ourselves away. I wish there had been more time to visit! We left at 5.30 and had to rush to get ready for church in Buckie at 6.00.

It is frustrating at times to see teenagers make bad choices in the past that are now affecting their future. I have had the joy of sharing some advice and council to a struggling teen. I can't help thinking how hard it is to go through those awkward years with a less than adequate tool box. I am prayerful, that in spite of some obvious struggles, the Spirit will guide and bring about something of value and purpose. I am very aware that this is always the case when the Spirit is involved, my prayer is for the will to engage and for fear to be overcome.

I am delighted with our Friday night bunch! This past Friday we had our first class of the term. We had to delay the start because of the Aberdeen Youth Weekend. It was a good beginning! We had Lewis and Robert "Graduate" from the Monday night Class now that they are in the Academy. I am so happy that they are now a part of Friday nights! We had two new faces in Jordan and Ryan. Jordan Sutherland used to come a few years back and after some invites he made up his mind to come and to bring his friend with him - fantastic! We added a few more "Hands" to our wall. I taught a lesson based on a fundamental difference between God and Satan, "God waits to be INVITED into your life, but Satan will INVADE any chance he gets!" We had a good crowd there and the atmosphere has certainly rolled over from last term. I am very hopeful and excited to see God continue the good work in this arena of young souls!

I have reason to be disappointed with myself. I have felt a bit flat and know I should be doing a better job in certain aspects of my life. I am reminded of the lesson I challenged the teens with last week and need to put it into practice in my own life. Satan, "The Accuser" will devour you if you let him! I need to spend some time getting back under, "The Mighty Hand of God!" After this weekend I know thing are getting back on track, but I am always conscious of my humanity.

I am not saying this to lift myself up, but to show how great God is and how we are useful in His service. On Sunday Fenella, Beth, Holly, Hannah and I had the joy of spending the day with the Buckie Church. On the journey up I prayed constantly that God use me to bless the church. I am confident that God used my family to encourage the Christians there. I preached two lessons and I pray that I allowed God to use my heart in delivering His message. We had lunch at Elaine Pirrie's and were spoiled big time! We watched a DVD of Elaine and Hunter's 25th anniversary, where they renewed their vows. It was beautiful and there were tissues, lots of them! It was good to spend time with Grace and Alan Johnstone. From a young age Alan, Grace and their family have impacted my faith.

I am proud of Amy and Beth! I see their roots of maturity in their desire to learn and choose a meaningful path for their future. I make these observations with an element of fear, because you never know what trials and challenges their lives will encounter and who they will turn too for advice. Fenella and I take comfort from the fact that they know God and that there is evidence in their young lives that their faith is their own. We don't know what tomorrow will bring, but we thank God for what his instruction and teaching has created through imperfect people.

Well, wasn't expecting to use this as a sounding board, but it is what it is! Please seize the opportunity to pray for many of the joy's and pain's I have shared in this entry - God Bless!

Call of Duty

2010-08-30T10:23:00.008+01:00

Want to begin this blog with our first Wednesday night class. We had a good bunch there on the 1st night as you can see from the photo. We started bringing some colour to the hall by getting everyone to put their hand print on the wall - the kids loved it! We told the kids what we were going to do this new term. We are going to go through Jesus teaching, both parables and sermons with a 3 column approach. The bible record is in the first column, the kids write it in their own words in the second column and in the third column they write some applications for their lives from the teachings. The kids do this in their classes, but we all come together to discuss the application part. Will keep you informed as to how this works out! In short we had a great first class!

We just back yesterday from the Aberdeen Youth Weekend! Alex, Elaine and I took a group of 12 teens through for the weekend and in spite of all the usual symptoms of sleep deprivation and exhaustion we had a truly quality time. I can't sing high enough praises for our group. The way they conducted themselves showed a level of maturity and spiritual appetite that was a credit to them. The whole weekend they represented the Peterhead congregation well and I am well proud of them all!

I will try to put into words the essence of the weekend. When we left the building we stopped off at KFC for a snack before turning up at the building to register. We played an epic game of football upon arrival, as is our tradition. Being so close to Aberdeen we always arrive first and after the group are registered we head across the road to a concrete pitch and play for 2-3 hours - excellent! There is something very therapeutic about this football match. It's almost like I get all my anxiety and troubles out there and after the game there is a sense of peace and calm comes over me and I am then ready and focused for the weekend. I get to know everyone well on the pitch and the connections are made for the weekend and everyone has a starting place for conversation.

I mentioned just before my lesson the journey I went on in preparation for the topic I was given. I was given the topic, "Enemy Briefing." The theme is Spiritual warfare and I told the audience that getting the lesson to come together was not easy. I told them that any time you study about our enemy, Satan, you are forced to come face to face with your sin and your brokenness. I was honest about my struggles with Satan's "Strongholds" in my life and the constant struggle I have to keep examining my heart and taking a sledgehammer out every now and again to break through the holds Satan has managed to place in my life. I talked about our need to be consistently behind Christ and the danger of being exposed and out in the open when we forget to "...pick up our cross and FOLLOW Him." I used 1 Peter 5:6 as a foundation and used the illustration there of being under God's mighty hand. Ant the danger of not casting our anxiety on Him. I have to say I was in constant prayer leading up to the presenting of the lesson because to that point I was aware that my heart was not settled on what I would say. I am convinced that any time we expose Satan and his schemes we will come under attack from the enemy. I am thankful that God used me and the words came readily to my lips. I am confident that the lesson achieved it's end and that hearts were convicted and "strongholds" were starting to be demolished.

I was given the honour of sharing some insight into ministering to children and youth. I focused on two points. The first is obvious, but it took me a long time to accept and live by, "I planted, Apollos watered, but it is God who makes things grow!" I asked the question, "Is our mission to "Save" or to "Serve"? We are simply the planters and the realm of growth and salvation is God's! The second is one that has been proved true consistently in my ministry over the past 10 years which is the principle: "What you win them with is what you win them too!" (Thanks Dan!) If you attract the kids with activity then activity becomes the attraction. If you attract the kids with Christ then Christ becomes the attraction. We need to have God's influence right at the beginning in order for His hand to be at work in their young lives. The sessions went well and the comments implied that many were inspired to action, therefore, praise God!

Another benefit of the weekend was to meet Jeremy and Jenny Arron and Richard and Mary Harp. Both these families are now in Scotland and involved in ministry. I was only able to hear one of Jeremy's lessons because he was teaching the teens while I was teaching the young adults at the same time. The lesson I got to hear was titled, "End Game." He shared that the game was already won through Christ. He focused his lesson on Elisha and his servant when Elisha prayed that the young man's eyes might be opened to see the army of god surrounding the enemy. Great stuff! I'm sure we will get to know each these good people over the coming months.

We had one "incident" during the weekend. During our 5-a-side football on the Saturday evening Alex and Thomas had a clash of heads. Thomas went down like a ton of bricks and Alex had blood pouring from above his eye. It took Thomas a while to get things together and after a couple of hours in A&E both emerged looking a little worse for wear, but on the mend. Alex is the proud bearer of a good sized scar above his eye - note from the picture above. Thomas has no such battle scars to show off, just a pretty sore head!

Fenella, Holly and Hannah came through for the Sunday! It was lovely getting a hug from Holly and Hannah, but to see Fenella again, after being totally spent during the weekend, was priceless!

God is good!

New Term - New Opportunities!

2010-08-25T16:10:00.004+01:00

Glad to be finally sitting down and collecting my thoughts of what has been going on these past couple of weeks. It has truly been eventful! There has been much to be hopeful about and at the same time there are some deep struggles too. In a nutshell - ministry!

Last week was great! I am still thrilled when I go round the schools and meet up with the head teachers and find out how I can help and find opportunity to serve. There has been one change in the school timetable this year that has meant a big change in how I am able to minister with the kids in school. Last term I focused a lot on lunchtime clubs, but this term it is not an even an option, since the lunchtimes have been cut to 45 minutes. There is no time after the kids are fed to do activities. At the outset I was concerned that this would be a stumbling block, but the reality is very different. I now have after school clubs in 4 different schools which is excellent. I have all my assembly dates plugged in too and it looks like my involvement in the schools is set for another year - praise God! This morning I also got in touch with the High School and from tomorrow we will be involved in a lunchtime club there too - good times!

I have spent a lot of time in study and preparation for this coming weekend. I was asked to hold a conference on "Youth Ministry" running alongside the Youth Weekend at Aberdeen. I have loved going over my class notes from my time with Dan Stockstill at Harding. If I am completely honest this is only the second time I can remember pulling them out and browsing through them. What impacted me the most was looking into my mind and reading all my thoughts and vision captured in term papers, philosophies and 5 year plans! It's hard to believe I am looking back over 10 years ago!!! It has been refreshing to remind myself of the calling I had and the clear and obvious response we made to set out on this path of ministry. I am excited to be sharing some of my insight and experience with the group, but at the same time upon reflection I am very conscious that "ministry" is not something that can be tied down and neatly packaged. My experience has shown time and time again that God's ways are, many times, not my ways! I was also asked to fill in for Robin Vick as one of the speakers. Robin and Chrissy have struggled to get over here, but thankfully the news is breaking that they now have their visa's and their flights are booked - praise God! I have the lesson on "Strategy Briefing." The Theme for the lessons is "Call of Duty" and deals with the topic of Spiritual warfare. I have spent a bunch of time studying for this and much of the study has been out of intrigue rather that necessity for my topic. I got a bit side tracked on the name "Lucifer" which I have always been taught is synonymis for Satan, but a name which means "Light Bringer" or "Morning Star." Like I said I have been easily side tracked through out my prep for this topic. Starting to get more focused and objective now and getting ready for the job in hand of briefing these young souls about our enemy!

Well, I have spent a greater amount time these past weeks in one on one visits. I have enjoyed the many cups of coffee and the time to get closer with people. It is always good to see hearts respond to the need for closer relationship with God. I am hopeful to be able to continue in this channel of ministry even when things get busy in the schools.

The photo's at the start of this entry are from our time in Edinburgh! We managed to get some last minute tickets to see the "Tattoo." It was an amazing spectacle! The pipers and the music was incredibly stirring and made us very patriotic. There is nothing like the sound of a huge pipe band! We managed to get two nights away and loved the time to be together as family. Amy and Beth loved exploring all the jewellery stalls that lined the Royal Mile. Holly and Hannah got T-shirts with their caricature painted by an artist. They loved it and love their t-shirts! Fenella and I just enjoyed getting time away and quietly watched the girls enjoy themselves. We know things are changing and while we were in Edinburgh we saw where Amy will be staying and also visited the University campus where she will be studying. We visited with the Hyvots Bank Church where Amy is planning to worship while in Edinburgh. They are a great bunch of Christians and Amy has already got pretty close with many there. Upon reflection of our time in Edinburgh there is no doubt that time with family is indeed Quality!

To finish. Monday night marked the start of our Youth classes. We had a fine class and brought in a couple of new ideas for the new term. We have created a "faceboard" for the younger kids. Alex and I worked on making a big perspex board with 4 columns. The first column is their photo and user name. The second column is where they update their status each class. The third column is for others to stick messages, and the fourth column is where they can stick a thumbs up if they like the messages. When we explained it to the kids they were very excited about it and it should spark friendship and communication. The other thing we have begun is our "Hands Border" Our youth/fellowship hall is pretty bland, so we have decided to make a border with hand prints. We started it on Monday night and will continue to add as people attend. We will open it up to all ages so that there will be a full range of generations represented. I thought as we watched the hands start to go on the wall how lovely it would have been to have faithful saints of old left their hand print there and be a constant reminder of their faith. We love the idea and love the colour and point of interest it will provide.

Enough for now! Please pray for our school ministries about to start - they will be time and energy consuming, but so much joy - God bless!

So much for taking it easy!

2010-08-06T12:03:00.006+01:00

These past days have tested me to my limit. However maybe not in the way you might think! The past three days I have been making a trench all the way round our house two and a half feet deep! We have a burst water main pipe and because the burst part of the pipe is on our property the water authority told us it is our responsibility to get it fixed. So, I started out with a diamond blade say and cut through the concrete and then with a sledge hammer and pick axe got the top layer broken up and removed. Next was a layer of hard core and finally a foot of clay! I have not put my body through this kind of punishment since getting a huge haul of fish all those years ago! I have a bunch of blisters on my hands and from the waist up there are few muscles that don't ache. Happy to report that as of this morning the hard work is done and the plumber is coming just now to run a new pipe from the mains into the house - hooray!

On a different track. I have had the joy of preaching the last two Sunday mornings. The first Sunday I talked about the "Great Sin" of Pride that is so evident and in fact honoured in our culture. Talked about the need for humility in our lives and recognising our place before Almighty God. This past Sunday I talked about "Growth." I took a couple of potatoes that I had planted with Holly and Hannah before setting off to America and shared how great is it to watch things grow. I focused on the fact that it is only God who can bring about true beauty and growth in our lives.

There was a "Growth" moment last Sunday and one that made me very proud. During our "Prayers of the Church" (a time when the men of the congregation share public prayers), Thomas stood up and said his first public prayer. He expressed his thanks for the week we all had enjoyed at camp and for the chance to grow. Shaun told me after that he was ready to pray also, but that Thomas had said everything he was going to. It is such a joy to see their faith and also to see that they are at home with us as a family of believers.

Apart from the burst pipe episode, it is great to be home and to be around Fenella and the girls. We went through to pick up Amy from the airport last night and Fenella was commenting how it just seemed like yesterday they were here to get me! I know how blessed I am. Amy had spent a week over in Norway to visit with her good friends there. She had a lovely time.

I want to finish this entry with a thank you. For everyone who has been instrumental in bringing about decisions that has led to my family not having to worry about money for another year - THANK YOU! This week I was able to sit and gather all the info from my fundraising trip and things look to be in place for another year. Our God continues to provide!

God Bless!

Yes!

2010-07-31T13:05:00.010+01:00

We have all managed to get a couple of days to recover and rest. Camp Tayside was quite a journey and ended on an amazing note. The title of this blog is "Yes!" Which was the statement printed on this years camp tee-shirt. This was in response to the camp theme which was, "Does God Exist?" I enjoy Christian Apologetics and to some extent I enjoy looking at the science that supports the Genesis record of Creation. However, there is a limit to our ability in comprehending what the creative power of God is. I really struggle when we as "Man" try to work out everything through the avenue of science. I must confess to not having the most complex or intelligent brain. I take comfort in passages like the Psalm that states, "I do not concern myself with things too marvelous for me." There were numerous evidences for the existence of God throughout the week of camp! When there was a challenging idea or opinion being expressed during the lesson you would see little groups of focused people searching the scriptures for a solid foundation and turning to the "True" source for their answers. I would hear prayers in various small groups expressing desire to get close to God through their struggles and searching. I would hear young men and women share their desire and joy in being able to serve others and be used as instruments that bring others closer to our Father! In everything, the week of camp was very powerful! Yes, there were times when our concepts of creation were being tested to their limits and beyond, but those were the times when the truly godly ones rose up and led the others to the Word and found opportunity for faith to become deeper and more real! It was quite a journey this year at camp. However, I have no doubt that in many ways the theme of camp was answered in each of the campers own hearts and that when they all wear their tee-shirts they can wear them with real ownership that, "Yes, God does exist!"

Isn't it amazing how we have no way of predicting what some outcomes will be! If you had asked me before camp what my thoughts would have been they certainly would not have included any of the above. Again, I am in awe of what God brings about! Looking back over the week it is amazing to see how God was lifted up throughout the week! There were times when the bible was secondary and not even opened to times when the kids couldn't wait to get into their groups and set the bible loose! There were times when science was almost lifted above the Creator God, but then you would see kids in their small groups and devo's sharing how great God is and how amazed they were at His Creation! I have nothing but praise for the leadership at camp! It has been such a joy for me to see more of David Emslie, Paddy Sullivan and Paddy Boyns' love for the kingdom and their delight in passing faith to the generation coming up. I have been richly blessed by their example and count it a joy to be able to serve alongside them in the arena of Camp!

I must mention a few reasons for godly pride in some of the Peterhead young people. At the end of camp there are a few awards give out in recognition of excellence. Megan Strachan was recognised as the "Most Outstanding Girl Camper!" Megan is 9 years old and this was her first year at camp! Shaun Main was recognised as the "Most Outstanding Boy Camper!" Shaun is 17 and just became a Christian a few weeks ago. He is already setting quite and example! Thomas Dickie was recognised as the "Most Outstanding Sports Person!" Thomas was exemplary in how he competed and showed a right spirit during sports and games. It is so encouraging to see obvious signs that God is working in the lives of these young people! Again I refer to the theme of camp - "Does God Exist?" Yes, just look at the lives that are allowing Him to work in them!

One last point about camp. My prime role before going to camp was to work with some of the older teens and young adults. The reality of this was quite different than what I had envisaged. Through the various challenges being presented in the class times, it became obvious that this group needed to become focused on service, both to the physical needs of camp and to the spiritual needs. This group were challenged to go and introduce balance to the campers. To encourage bible study and prayer within camp. Very quickly this group gelled and became a tight group focused on this task. I was very proud of their example around camp and for their devotion to helping meet the needs of camp.

Throughout the week of camp we were constantly being confronted with the question, "What is the purpose of Camp?" In my mind camp is a place where... "The older ones who know God and live in His love, give and share it. The younger ones receive it and learn now to enjoy life with it!"

"As the heavens are above the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:9)

Home Safe and Sound!

2010-07-16T17:54:00.002+01:00

Just a very quick not to let you all know that I am now home safe and sound. I had no issues whatsoever on the way home. Waiting for me at Aberdeen were the ones I love most in this world! Amy missed you - hope NYCoS is going well looking forward to Saturday!!

Thanks again to all in America - God is good!

Coming Home

2010-07-15T22:12:00.002+01:00

Well, I am sitting at Memphis airport waiting to fly out HOME! There were times I didn't think this day would come, but here I am able to sit and think about nothing else but my family. I know what is waiting for me when I land in Aberdeen later tomorrow. The truth is that the time has passed quickly while I have been here in America. I have lost track of all the places I have visited, all the people i have met and all the presentations I have made. All I can do now is have a little patience and pray that God's people respond to our need and provide what we need to keep going in our journey with the Peterhead Church.

I have been so encouraged from home while being in the States. I must mention Ryan Geddes and Mark Gourlay especially! Almost every time logged onto facebook they would let me know they were thinking about me and would chat for a wee while. That meant a lot to me - thanks guys! It was also good to get a note from Rachel, Thomas and Shaun. I have found a new love for facebook that I never really appreciated when I was home.

These past days have been frantic. I prayed constantly to remain strong in the last days. I hope during my last few presentations I was able continue to express the passion and love for the church in spite of being pretty empty on the inside. I had the joy of meeting with the Central Church in Little Rock. They were a great group of people! Ginny made and impression on me and I thank God for her openness to our ministry. I felt a little sorry for Jerrad, the head of the missions committee. I was relentless in trying to get together with them and I thank God for Jerrad's obvious love for missions and willingness to make the presentation happen! I had a special time with Mike, Deborah and Brian Ireland. Had a good time remembering past times and the bond we all share in Christ. Fenella and I thank God for the involvement of the Ireland's who have always been generous and shown much love toward our family going back to our time when we lived in Searcy, AR - THANKS! I had the joy of heading back to Nashville and staying with the lovely couple that is James and Faye Pitts! I will not think of them without receiving great encouragement - they have been one of the great Joys I have enjoyed this trip. I met with two churches and thank God for being able to see the strength of the Nashville area. I had the joy of meeting up with Lisa Stiles. Lisa will always have a dear place in our hearts. Lisa came back to Peterhead right at the start of our work there and shared in the joy of seeing doors open and kids flood in! It was good to catch up, Lisa!

I had a meeting with the missions committee at College Church on the Sunday afternoon. My only regret was that the meeting was at 4.00pm. The world cup final went into extra time and I missed the second half of extra time and the Spanish goal! Well, that's not really important, but meeting with people who have invested so much in our ministry over the years most certainly was! We have been immeasurably blessed because College Church have supported my family all these years. I was able to present an update on our ministry and report on the potential "new" support resulting from my fundraising efforts thus far. There were so many people in that room who have served the kingdom tirelessly their whole lives - I felt a little out of my depth if I am totally honest. That night I had the joy of meeting with Foothills Church. I had the opportunity to share a presentation of our work and also preach some too. I felt a closeness with the Foothills body. Maybe it was because of L.V. Pfiefer being the preacher there or maybe because Paul and Sharron Pitt and Jim and Nellie Hardin worship there - I don't know, but I do know I had a good time there!

Well, I close out this entry asking for your prayers that the purpose for this trip was achieved. Only God knows how things will finally work out. I know I have spent all my energy and tried to be bold, yet genuine. I have been blessed richly and now look forward to time with Fenella and my girls!

Family here I come!!!

God bless and thanks to all who have been instrumental in taking care of me these past 4 weeks!

America - Week 3

2010-07-07T17:41:00.004+01:00

It is so good to be sitting this side of the trip and taking stock of where this journey has led to this point. Yes, I must start by stating the obvious I MISS MY FAMILY, but the truth is I have known a peace and contentment while being here. I thank all of you for your prayers - they are truly a source of strength to Fenella and I. With a mad dash to the finish of this trip I pray I can finish strong and that God continues to work in and through all that I have been led to and have been involved in. I have so much to be thankful for! I have met many new people on this visit and have been humbled many times by the generosity and hospitality of fellow Christians - I have been richly blessed! I have had an opportunity this morning to sit and evaluate the trip so far and although I am not able to say with assurance that the trip has met it's purpose yet, I have confidence that the opportunities gone before and the ones ahead can ensure my family's needs are met - Lord willing!

I spent much of this past week in the Dallas area. I started out with a 7 hour drive down to Bowie, TX. I met with them on Wednesday night and after some issues with the GPS and some rather strange directions to the wrong destination I was able to find the building and meet with the church. I felt so at home there! The atmosphere and the people were so homely and welcoming! I was able to split my time in the presence of the church with an update on our ministry and a lesson from the Word. They were so genuinely receptive to our work and gave so much encouraging words that I left there feeling so honoured that I was serving in the Kingdom. I had the chance to catch up with an old friend in Jonathan Paige. It was soooo good to reminisce about good times we had shared and the possibility of sharing some good times in the future over in Scotland. In everything I was refreshed!

From Bowie I drove up to Lake Dallas and spent the next 5 days there. It is ALWAYS a joy for me to get back to Lake Dallas. The church were the first to get involved with my family and have been a great source of joy over the 11 years we have served together in the kingdom. I spent the first couple of nights with Bill and Sue Allen. Bill has been and elder with the church for many years and is a true gentleman! I was spoiled rotten by them and had the delight of going to a major league baseball game. The Texas Rangers were playing the New York White Sox. The match was postponed for almost 4 hours due to some rain and it was quite hard to stay positive for that length of time. There was redeeming factor - John Bowles! I have known John for a number of years and knew he had a great heart for the kingdom, however this was the first I had been able to sit and talk for any length of time - a blessing in disguise! After being there 7 hours I was ready for bed, didn't get into the house till 2:00am! On the Friday morning we had a meeting with the Missions Resource Network in Dallas. They seem to have a good grasp of what missionaries life and needs. I was by now staying with Glenn and Sammie Johnson. I consider their home to be a safe haven because they are so down to earth and welcoming. I had the joy of sharing our work during the Sunday morning class and again I was asked to preach that morning too. Had a great time, but my favorite time there was at a picnic that night. We had an amazing game of football (soccer) and then settled down to a devotional I was privileged to lead a thought and then invite the teens to share their camp experiences. It was a brilliant night! I met up with two outstanding boys the next morning at Starbucks for a coffee before heading up to Searcy for the last leg of the trip. I had a good talk with Taylor Lively and Adam Goodnight and was well impressed with their faith and love for the kingdom.

PS. I have to mention Hunter and Liz Valls. This was the first time I had seen their son Turner - he was sooo cute! They are a lovely family.

Anyway, during that time I was constantly online and on the phone trying to plan the week ahead and trying to set up some new contacts to hear our appeal and potentially get involved with supporting our work.

This is now the final push and then HOME!!!

Please keep everything in your prayers - God Bless!

America - Week 2

2010-07-01T22:41:00.004+01:00

Well, I did consider making the title of this post, "We're not in Kansas any more." It is becoming so evident, since being over here in America, that as much as I love the Kingdom I have to face the fact that in Scotland the Church of Christ is tiny. It was made real when I was presenting our work in a congregation of around 450, that if you were to put all the Churches of Christ together in one place we would not have filled the building I was standing in!

I spent time with two of Fenella and I's favorite people in the world in Glenave Curtis and L.V. Pfieffer's. These are two safe haven's whenever I come over. Glenave was looking so well! I loved hearing about her new book she has written titled, "Food for the Soul." Anyone who knows Glenave will understand why that is a very fitting title. Glenave and Dean have always held a special place in my family's heart. L.V. was a great encouragement to visit with! I had the joy of sitting in three of his classes during my spell at Harding University. I have a great deal of respect for his life and teaching.

I have had the joy in this last week to spend time In Manchester, CT. I flew into Boston on the Wednesday evening and stayed there till the following Monday. I was GREATLY encouraged during my visit there! I must mention a few special people - Bob and Gail Jarvis, who opened their home to me and took care of me, Dave and Debbie Barbarian, who gave me hope that fundraising might not be the challenge that is seems to be, Tim and Christie Garcia who always make me feel so at ease in their home and as ever George and Elaine Caruthers, who have been great supporters of our work over the years - THANK YOU ALL! I love the church there in Manchester. They have risen to the challenge and have committed to increasing our support by a further $300 a month! It is always humbling to be treated so well and the joy of seeing their belief in what we are doing is so encouraging! Christie Garcia took me to the airport and it was early on the Tuesday morning before I found my way back to George and Donna's house in Searcy.

On a lighter note - before leaving for Texas on Wednesday morning, George and I had the joy of playing 9 holes! We got up at 5.30am to play before he started work at 8.00am. George played well, but was not quite able to defeat his big brother! A rematch has already been requested! He is a good man and I miss having him around. I jumped in the car and headed of in the direction of Bowie, Texas. Eight hours and short of 500 miles later I got there and with 5 minutes to spare got behind the pulpit and shared the presentation about our work and preached a short lesson. The response was encouraging! They all expressed how they loved being involved with us. I had the chance to stay around and visit a while before heading up to Lake Dallas. I must mention the joy of seeing John Paige again! John was at HSBS the same time as I was and we have an instant love and respect for the other. It was a GOOD visit!

Today, I had the JOY of getting together with Greg Cole and Bill Walker from the South MacArthur Church. Both these men are giants in my book. I did not tell Bill I was coming and surprised him. He grabbed me and we hugged and spent over an hour catching up and remembering good times. Greg Cole is a special man! Greg and I met on one of my first ever fund raising efforts in America. From that first meeting I have always felt a bond and deep appreciation for Greg - he has one of the most gentle and sincere hearts I have ever came across. Got to spend an hour with him over lunch before getting back into the car and heading back to Denton.

These past days have reminded me how great it is to be a part of God's family. I have friends that, if not for the Kingdom, I would have never met and had the honour of getting to know - God is Good!

Haven't mentioned all the frantic planning that is going on in the midst of all this. I am actively trying to get in contact with people who can get me to talk with various missions committees etc... This is time consuming and tough to keep track of. Please keep Fenella and my girls in your prayers! Needless to say we are struggling to be apart under these circumstances. I am missing the reassurance and stability that my family bring. I am not quite at breaking point yet, but every time I see their faces when I present our work I have to make a quiet gesture to our Father to get me through the thing.

Please be praying for my efforts and again if there are people you think might be interested in touching base with regard to supporting our work, get in touch and let me know - my number while in the States is 501 207 1891.

God Bless!

America - Week one

2010-06-22T16:17:00.003+01:00

Just a quick update on the events so far. I am getting ready to fly up to Boston in the morning. I get the blessing of spending 5 days with the Manchester CofC there in Connecticut. I am really looking forward to the time up there. I have a rough idea of what I need to do and I am humbled by the way the Church there have responded to our need. They have sent money to help with the cost of my travel and have partnered with our ministry for a number of years now - it will be good to be there! I am excited at the opportunity to teach one of the classes while I am there because the subject for the class is the book of James. Before knowing this I pondered a while over what lessons to work on in preparation for the trip and thought I had it covered, but being challenged to look at James has been an unexpected blessing. I have worked on a class outline that introduces James from a fellow fisherman's perspective. I have loved looking over this and have been blessed in the process - hope the saints in Manchester are able to share in this blessing.

This morning I was hugely blessed! I heard that Jo-Jean Smith had moved to Searcy and was working in the Missions office here at Harding. I popped in to say hello and ended up in tears as we talked. I was feeling a bit sorry for myself as I considered the time I was to be away from Fenella and here I am sitting with Jo-Jean who has been separated from her husband for over 4 years. I was deeply humbled and at the same time encouraged by her devotion to the will of our Father and her love for her family.

At the weekend I had the joy of spending time with two of the loveliest people on the planet! James and Faye Pitts have come into my life out of nowhere and left a marked impression on me. I wrote on the thank you card as I left, "God knew I needed a couple like you two as I set out on this journey." They were so lovely! I was honoured to get to know them. I had the opportunity to meet with the Woodson Chapel CofC mission committee. The meeting went well, but I felt so inadequate trying to express what God is doing in Peterhead and trying to say it all in around 40 minutes! I pray that God takes things further as they consider our ministry and make a presentation to their elders. The drive to and from Nashville was long, but again turned out to be great time for me to meditate and consider stuff. I took the chance to listen to some good preaching from a couple of my favorite teachers, John Ortberg and Mark Driscoll. In all I am strengthened.

This morning I got the chance to go running with George. I miss being around him! We ran round the track for around 3 miles. The heat getting ever hotter! I miss Peterhead! Last night he and his kids were on the Wii Beatles rock band. It was hilarious to watch them trying to keep to the beat of the songs. The video is on Georges facebook page - worth a look if you're in the mood for a laugh.

Well things are moving quickly and although I am missing my family I am pressing on. I got to hear Beth's oboe solo that Amy had e-mailed over to me. I was amazed at how beautiful it sounded and proud that the beautiful sound was being created by my daughter. I am surrounded by so much beauty!

Please keep my 5 girls in your thoughts and prayers while I can't be there.

Till next time - God Bless!

Arrived in America

2010-06-18T19:55:00.005+01:00

I thought I would take one last chance to request your prayers as I begin this journey to try and secure the funds needed for Fenella and I to continue our ministry in Peterhead. I arrived late last night into Searcy, Arkansas. I forgot the way out of Memphis and ended up taking an hour to find the right road west to Searcy, but apart from that every other part of the journey was spot on. It is good to be here and to see familiar faces that have touched our lives in the past. It was especially good to walk into George and Donna's house and see them face to face. His family have grown!

I am pushing to get my presentations finished up ready for Nashville tomorrow. There are so many memories of the campaign we just finished up that are encouraging me and giving me reason to be bold in sharing what God is doing in Peterhead and in deed throughout Scotland.

I must mention the amazing fact that last Friday Shaun Main became a Christian! Shaun is 17 and has been coming for over 5 years. This past 6weeks we were studying more personally and on the Wednesday night after class he told me, "It was time!" I visited with his mum later that night to make sure she was OK with her Son making this commitment of his life to Christ. There was no problem and in fact the visit was great. It was a great night and one that moved many to tears. We now have 11 teenage Christians in the Peterhead Church, two of which are now boys.

Anyway, must get things finished up. Please keep my family in your prayers as I am away from them.

God bless!

Under way!!!

2010-06-05T22:24:00.002+01:00

Campaign has begun!! Everyone arrived last night during our teen class. I can't quit believe that this is it! Things are going so well so far. We had a fantastic day today with our picnic. The weather in the morning was gorgeous until about 3:30 then it began to rain. I don't know how many were there, but there were a bunch! We had, I think 8 families from the mother and toddler group. It was good to see tiny children running around in the sunshine. We had about 40 kids there and about the same in adults. Everyone had their fill of good times. This evening we were at the building beginning to get the school Program sorted and getting the group confident in their roles. What a joy to be working with such an amazing bunch. I will tell you more later about the content of our program, let me add it is centred around two "knocking down" cavemen who through the progress of the presentation are changed into two "lifting Up" cavemen. Job done for today and I will now go to bed excited about worship tomorrow!

For this bunch to be doing this for the first time - their desire to serve is genuine and it is my joy to be working alongside them for the good of the community and for the furtherance of the Kingdom!

Please keep our efforts in your prayers. From Tuesday we will be presenting our program in 7 local schools which means we will be influencing over 2000 children with the blessing of our Father. Please also pray for Fenella and I as we try to keep the financial worries to the background and keep our focus in the campaign.

I am humbled and thankful for the readiness of fellow Christians who are fighting our corner and sharing our ministry with others - our deepest thanks.

Take care and God bless!

America Here I come!

2010-05-31T11:02:00.002+01:00

This entry is simply a request for help. The situation as far as our financial support goes is serious. I have had to begin plans for making a trip over very soon. I had planned to make a trip over in late July early August, but that has had to be scrapped and an immediate response to our need is now needed. This means I will be leaving directly after our campaign in just over 2 weeks time. I plan to spend around 4 weeks in America with the primary purpose being to fund raise, but also to visit and enjoy time with those already supporting our work.

Seems that all I have been doing lately is making appeals, but the reality is that we are in a time of need and we need help. We need to replace a minimum of $1500 a month before the July, otherwise I will fall short of meeting my commitments and meeting my family's needs.

I am in the process of making travel plans and trying to work out the where and when I need to be in different places. Trying to work all this out in such a short space of time is murder, but necessary - thanks to all whom I have already been in touch with and have begun to get the ball rolling. I am coming over on faith and in the confidence that fellow Christians will see how God is working here and commit to our ministry. I make no apology telling you all that this is one of the toughest parts our ministry. I am greatly humbled and my flesh is fearful, but my spirit is bold knowing that a foundation that has been laid over the past 9 years of our ministry and seeing how God continues to work in once desolate lives that are now seeking and growing in faith.

So, with this in mind I plead with you all to consider this appeal and ask that you pray for my path ahead. God is faithful! If you can help direct my path to churches or individuals who have a love for the mission field I will try to make every effort to meet and share what God is doing here.

God bless!

Financial Emergancy

2010-05-20T21:38:00.002+01:00

Friends, I have just received the news no missionary wants to hear and that which leaves you humbled and powerless. Our sponsoring Church has just told us that we have to take a salary drop of $1000 this month. The reality of this is simple - we live from month to month with no savings and no emergency fund to fall back on. This cut means we will fail to pay bills. I will be making a trip over to America in late July to try and make up this shortfall, but until then we are in a bit of a crisis. We need your help. If you are able in any way to do something please get in touch with brother Fred Jewell jewell@harding.edu who is the head of missions at College Church of Christ in Searcy, AR, our supporting Church.

In all this there is purpose and reason in this challenge. God is good and His love endures forever!

The Narrow Way

2010-05-19T11:07:00.004+01:00

This past weekend was full on! Looking back, things went great. On the Friday night I took a group of 12 older teens through to Aberdeen. We went to Subway for our supper and then on to the concert at the Aberdeen Church building with "Cornerstone" a group from Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. It is always good to have time with this group of teens. They are a rich blessing to our ministry and seeing their desire and faith deepen is a source of joy to me and honour to the King.

On the Saturday we had our "Pool Party" where all the youth group were invited. There were over 40 kids turned up and what a time we had! I was in my element showing off on the diving boards and being spurred on to try dives I thought I no longer had the nerve to do, but surprising what you can do when a bunch of fearless teenage boys try to out do you. The Inflatable Obstacle Course was a big hit with everyone and instantly elevated someones standing within the group if they made it across to the other end. The time flew and before we knew it the pool attendants were calling time!

On the Sunday we had our 3rd Sunday night meeting. The lesson was borne out of the above clip which was sent in an e-mail. As soon as I watched it I knew that it would lend to a great illustration on our walk in the faith. I talked from Luke 13 and Matthew 7 about entering through the narrow gate and making every effort to find the narrow way. At the start we had a good discussion about the clip and talked about the parallels between the path leading up the mountain and the path of our faith. The imagery was fantastic and after the lesson the response was very good. This was a lesson I had been looking forward to preaching and praise God that the message struck at the heart strings. The format of the meeting continues to work well and continuing with a cup of tea as everyone arrives helps get everyone talking and getting connected before entering into the meeting time.

Had a couple of amazing assemblies yesterday at Clerkhill School. Talked to around 500 kids split over two assemblies of 250. We shared a lesson about our lives and how we need to be aware of the gifts we give out to the people around us. How that some of the time we give good gifts in the way we treat others and on the down side how we can sometimes give bad gifts in treating others in a poor manner. I illustrated this with a gift bag full of chocolate bars and potatoes. I invited a mix of kids to come up and receive a gift. To some I complemented and gave chocolate, but to others I grunted and gave them a potato! When I asked what they thought I was illustrating the response was good. I shared about God being the giver of nothing but good gifts and how that we need to mirror Him. In all, I know God's blessing had touched the kids with a challenge to think about the gifts we share with each other.

Meeting up with David Emslie and Patrick Sullivan in the morning. We are going to try an tie up all the loose ends relating to our campaign that begins in a couple of weeks here in Peterhead. I am hugely excited and a little bit nervous at the same time. There is such potential with this group and we want to make the most of it, while at the same time being considerate of the fact that this is every ones first attempt at this. Please continue to be prayerful as we take this huge step.

Well, take care and God bless!

Reasons to be JOYFUL!

2010-05-12T09:22:00.002+01:00

Just wanted to follow on a little from where we left off in my last update. Things continue to go very well with the classes and especially the older teens. We have a very busy weekend ahead. Friday @ 4.30 we leave for Aberdeen to go to a concert with "Cornerstone" who come from Falkner University. We are leaving early to go to Subway for something to eat before the concert. It's always great to get some time to talk and hang out. On Saturday we have hired the local swimming pool for some fun and on Sunday we have our 3rd Sunday night and I have started getting my thoughts together for teaching there. Very excited about the path ahead! Things are beginning to heat up and with the campaign under 4 weeks away plenty be hopeful in. The group who are coming are fantastic! These names may not mean anything to some of you, but they have committed themselves to 10 days of service to benefit the church and community here in Peterhead. Please hold these names before God as they prepare to be used mightily in service to the King - The Boys: David Emslie, Patrick Sullivan, David Cope, Ben O' Donovan, Aubrey Boynes, Mark Wilson, Ross Stars and Craig Nesbit. The Girls: Sarah Ormsby, Sara McCulloch, Dawn McCulloch, Hayley Jones, Shanae Boynes, Elaine Pressley, Amy Strachan, Brittany Cowie and Ben's girlfriend Kelsey. Please pray that we can get the content of our school assembly program pitched right and ensure the simple message is memorable and impacting to their young hearts. Please pray that the individuals who make up the group can put all else aside and be poured out for the sake of Christ. Pray that lives are brought closer to God and that faith is deepened. I have commented before on the fact that this is a first for us. To have a campaign made up of our own young Christians is a dream come true and lights up the fact that, yes, the church here is struggling, but that God is very much living and active in the hearts of his people who will surrender to His will and serve for the good of His glory. This is huge and therefore we are petitioning you all to pray big prayers for the success of the message and example the group will be living out.

I want to comment a little on Shaun Main's journey of faith. I have met and studied with Shaun twice now. It was obvious from our first getting together that, yes, Shaun was convicted, but it was also obvious that he was not totally sure about what is was he was committing too. So, we are beginning his journey to find Christ and make his calling and election sure. Thomas and Alex are meeting with us. I am humbled and inspired to be involved in this journey with Shaun. Again, I ask your prayers for Shaun's journey. There is no doubt he is searching and has made this giant leap in faith, but pray that through Thomas, Alex and Myself that we can support and guide Shaun to find God.

The last couple of classes since my last entry have followed the same track - amazingly effective! Both Friday and Wednesday night have been so open and involved with the teens. Monday was great too. We had another 2 new faces start coming. Courtney, who is Bethany's older sister and Robert who came a while back and decided he missed coming and here he is back again!

A couple of things I should have mentioned before about how proud I am of my family. Amy got news that she has been accepted into the National Youth Choir of Scotland's full choir! This is an amazing achievement and one Amy has worked hard to achieve. The quality of this choir is second to none and Fenella and I are delighted for Amy! Beth has equally been shining in her musical talent. Beth was accepted into the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and participated in a residential training camp a few weeks ago. We were able to go down and share in their concert at the end of the training week. It was stunning! Fenella and I are so delighted with Beth's achievement. We can't believe the music talent there is in our house - a bit bewildering considering I have zero talent in this field!

Well enough for now, but remember God is good and His love endures forever!

So Unpredictable!

2010-05-05T11:53:00.003+01:00

This was a video I got from Jamie Hernandez Facebook and thought it was outstanding. I used this for our 3rd Sunday and taught about getting our lives stripped back to the bare minimum and starting to rebuild with what's most important being the focus of our lives.

If there is one thing I have learned these past weeks it is this... Ministry is so unpredictable! I am guessing this is how it should be when God is in the driving seat, but out of despair there is always hope! We have been a part of some amazing ministry and some very challenging ministry this past while. We are seeing growth in our primary school age classes, which is great and this is something we have been working on the past month. We created a flyer to distribute around the schools and the results are good. We have seen 4 new kids start on Monday nights! Monday's are a true blessing and there is real stability in the class structure and the atmosphere. There is a good balance of fun and faith. We came up with a new slogan that goes onto the bottom of our letters and printed stuff - "Encouraging Fun, Encouraging Friendship and Encouraging Faith." A week on Saturday we have organized a trip for the whole group to the local swimming pool. We have hired the pool for the evening and will enjoy some fun with the inflatable assault course and the diving boards. The good thing that has come from this outing is that our recently started Mother and Toddlers group headed up by Emma-Jane Jones, Ann and Robert Stephen and Grace and Donald Rossie have a bunch coming out with us. Should make for a brilliant night.

We have struggled with our Friday night class these past weeks and have been prayerfully working through some issues. In a nut shell the issues we are dealing with are the result of growth. We are continually having new kids show up and as a result we are struggling to find a format for the class time of the evening. Our problem is simple - we have teens who have been coming for up to 8 years and are ready and desiring spiritual food and on the other hand we have a bunch of newcomers who are struggling to handle the lessons because they can't quite connect with them. This has led to some trying times as far as keeping discipline in the class time and caused a bit of strain. We don't have limitless volunteer help so we can't just set up another class and there are not enough nights in the week to make this a workable solution. To begin working through all this we changed the class last Friday night and simply asked the question, "Why do you come here." The reason we asked this question was to get the whole group to know what the others are expecting when they come. We split the class into 3 groups, The older teens 4th year and above, 3rd years and 1and 2nd years. The older teens we left to discuss themselves, but with the younger ones we had Alex and John lead up the middle group and I took the Youngest ones (the newcomers). The class was amazing! We started sharing what the youngest ones enjoyed first, then the middle and the older ones last. You could see the progression in depth of faith and desire for the spiritual side of the class coming as the older classed shared their reasons for coming. I have no doubt God was active throughout and we had a class to remember, however we still have to work out how to connect with the newcomers more effectively. Funny all this - as I am writing I am reminded of our struggles when we first began our ministry almost 9 years ago and trying to come up with material and ideas that connect with the un-churched. Looks like we have come full circle! Looks like we may have to use the old faithful "Divide and Conquer" principle and have teach newcomers in a different way.

I mentioned in the title of this blog how "Unpredictable" ministry is, let me give you an example. On Wednesday night last week I had my class lesson prepared and began with the question, "Ask the group a question that makes us thing a little deeper." I did this simply to get the class into a thinking mode ready for the lesson, however from that question the whole class took of in a Spirit led diversion! Shaun Main stunned me when his hand shot up instantly. His question was this, "What passage in the bible helps you get through life?" Well, to be honest I was not expecting that depth right from the off! C.J. Cowie responded right away with Jeremiah, "I know the plans I have for you..." I was sitting in my seat trying to take all this in and had to acknowledge there was something special going on. Things heated up with Ryan Geddes Question which was directed at me, "Who do you think will be the next to become a Christian?" As if I could have been any more surprised at the course of this class. I responded saying I have stopped trying to guage where they all are in their faith and I can't wait to see who will be next. The next thing was, all the teens began to express who they though was closest to the kingdom and why they thought it! I was flabbergasted at all the comments and expressions of faith that they saw in each other. I left the building totally in AWE of God and with my heart filled to the brim of hope and anticipation. Friday night comes and during the lesson Thomas and Shaun disappear for a noticeably long time. I go out to check what they were doing and find the two of them talking in the toilet. I thought nothing of it and asked then to come and join the class. Little did I know what they had bee discussing! After the lesson time Shaun come to me and said we need to talk and Thomas needed to come too. We went into a classroom and Shaun began to express his need to become a Christian! I have no doubt that Shaun has thought all this through and is ready for the commitment he is about to make, but we will study some this week and meet up with his mum and dad to make sure they are supportive of his decision. God willing my next entry in here will be sharing the news that we have a new brother in Christ!

Take care and God bless!

Easter Fun...

2010-03-23T08:31:00.008Z

Had to put in a quick update from our class last night. We had a "let your hair down" kind of night with an Easter fun night. Alex and I spent much of the morning getting ready for the evenings class. We hard boiled 60 eggs in preparation for the kids to have some creative time painting and decorating them. We then set about shopping for chocolate eggs to place all over the floor of the hall. We came up with the idea of a Easter egg hunt with a twist. The kids were in pairs each holding one end of a baking tray. Once the hunt began they were not allowed to take their hands off the tray and come up with ingenious ways to get the eggs onto their trays. This turned out to be a great hit with the kids and there was much fun watching as some eggs would roll off as they tried to get more onto the tray. In the end Hannah and Nina ended up with the most eggs - 41! We also did a twist on the old ducking for apples Halloween game and had the kids ducking for cream eggs in a ball pit rather that water. This was great fun too. The time flew and before we knew it it was 8.00 and time to get the kids off home.

I must mention something really good. Owen, came tonight for the first time! Owen is the 5 year old son of the mum who phoned to enquire about the classes after the teens had been out delivering some flyers about the classes for children. He loved the class and wanted to sleep at the building! His mum stayed the whole time to see what went on and it was really nice to get to know her and let her see the church in action. Owen cant wait for the Easter break to be over, even though they have not started yet, so he can come back to class. We had a great bunch of teens helping tonight and their input really helped make the various activities run smoothly - a big thanks to you all!

God bless.

Following on...

2010-03-20T09:17:00.008Z

Coming on the coattails of the previous entry...

It was my privilege to be able to serve the Buckie Church a couple of Sundays ago. Heading up to Buckie is always a heart warming thing. They may only be a handful of Christians, but there is such a good spirit in the place that it's always a joy to share the message there. On the way up I was stopped in my tracks at the beauty of the coastline. Leaving Peterhead it was overcast and grey, but just before turning into Banff the skies were blue and the sunshine was radiant - truly gorgeous! The night before Hannah had a very heavy nose bleed and was pretty faint and weak, so Fenella couldn't come up with me. I always feel at a loose end when she is not with me. Holly decided she would come with me which turned out to be really nice. In the afternoon we took a trip into Cullen to get some "Legendary" ice cream and while we were there we took the chance to visit Avril and Ian Bowie. Ian was away in Nigeria, but Avril, her sister Irene and a bunch of the family were there. Holly had a great time colouring and designing quilts with Avril and Edward. It was good to catch up with young Ian and his girlfriend Mag's. They have all had a pretty horrendous last couple of years and it was good to just visit and let them know we are thinking about them. Bill Pirrie was looking well after his surgery. He is such a giant in the faith and is one of my favourite Christians. Holly and I got to spend time with Grace and Alan Johnstone who fed us and spoiled us big time. Samantha was in on the deal too and it was good to see and hear all her plans and life stuff. Grace and Alan are tow of the nicest people! While we were away into Culllen Grace made a bunch of "Tablet" or "Toffee." Anyone who knows me well knows I love toffee! Grace gave us a big old tub to share with the family, but on the way home we were thinking up ways to secretly keep it to ourselves - sorry family love you, but it was toffee!!! When we left the Buckie Church the old saying came true, "Going with the intention to bless and coming away knowing you have been the one receiving the biggest blessing!"

Been working on our Campaign 2010 with our local Scottish (and a couple of English) team. I have to say I am excited! Have got a chance to work with David Emslie throughout the planning stages and he's a great guy! Have known him for years, but have really only got to KNOW him through this campaign. We have the schedule done and the group formed. We have 7 schools signed up for assembly programs and our focus on young adults is taking shape too. Our theme will be "Helium" with the idea of being lifted up. Our focus will be teaching the kids the importance of doing and saying things that lift others up rather than burden and weigh them down. In all everything is coming together well. Our next group time will be at the young adults retreat next month - excited!!!

On the home front things have been exciting too. We were made aware just how gifted Beth is on the oboe when we went to her 1st concert with the music school she has been attending this past year. The quality was up there. I am no musical critic, but there was obviously something special on show throughout the whole nights performance and Beth was right at home amongst it all. The moment that got me though was when she was playing at the Aberdeen Music hall with the Aberdeenshire North Concert Band last week. She had a solo during "Pirates of the Caribbean" and the sound was amazing! Holly and Hannah have just performed this morning in the strings section of the Aberdeenshire Junior Orchestra and again Fenella and I were delighted to see them be a part of something that is beautiful. Both played their violins beautifully and they looked to be enjoying their performance. What a joy to be surrounded by all this beauty! Amy is in the final stages of her rehearsals for her part as "Iolanthe" in the opera. Most days we hear her go over the songs at the piano and even with the doors closed her voice just fills the whole house. She truly has a beautiful voice. Amy has also just received an unconditional offer for a place in Edinburgh University's music programme. She is excited! And finally throughout all this frantic family activity there is a loving mother encouraging the girls and making sure everything is as it needs to be - love you Fenella!

Well, that big splurge of information sort of gives you an update on our ministry and family life.

God is great and we are blessed.

Long time no see...

2010-03-17T08:11:00.003Z

Life is very full these days and finding a quiet moment to sit and focus on this report is proving to be tough. If it were not for our friends in America who are supporting our efforts here I dare say I would choose not to get on here. However, it is because of our love for the churches involved in keeping us going that I take this wee while out to update on our ministry. Upon reflection I have to say things are going well. In the classes at church there has been fewer dramas and more focused effort on the younger ones part and as you will see further into this update the involvement from the older teens especially has been refreshing.

I will begin with a snippet from our last 3rd Sunday Night. Alex, John and I got things together and shared a great night. John welcomed everyone and led the singing while Alex and I shared the message. Alex started out by showing the Tiger Woods "Apology" and talked about man's sinful nature. I followed Alex with the question, "Do you want to live a life of Brokenness or Blessing?" We concluded with the truth that you can only find the blessing if you are following the right path. We had a good number there and again we had a bunch of the teens there. It is now part of their lifestyle to come on the 3rd Sunday.

On Friday night's we made a change to the format during our class time. For the pas 3 weeks we have simply set a foundation with a 5-10 minute intro and then split the group into smaller groups for discussion. This might seem commonplace to you, but the difference here is that we challenged the older teens to lead the discussion groups - beautiful! They have responded in a really positive way! When we ask for group leaders there are a bunch who step up and take the lead. John, Alex and I just mingle from group to group helping out a little if needed. We all come together again after about 15 minutes for discussion and exploration. Last week we discussed the question, "How do you know God is real?" Alex, John and I shared why we were convinced in the reality of God and were blessed to hear some of the teens "Faith Blocks." Let me say with honesty that some of the younger ones who have not been coming for long have at times been silly and struggled with the groups, but the evidence on the whole is that there is depth in many of their young minds.

I must quickly mention about last night. We met with the older teens and shared a good time together. We wanted Andy Forman, who is leaving on Sunday to start army training, to know how much we appreciate him and we all wrote messages in the pages of a new bible as a gift for him to remember that he has friends who care and who have shared lives over the past 4 years. After the Bible signing we then started on our second phase for the evening which was to go out and distribute flyer's to the houses that are close to the building. We wanted to promote our primary school classes on Monday and Wednesday nights. When I am in the schools many children are excited about coming to classes, but when they go home and tell their parents it is obvious that they don't know anything about us or about the classes. This motivated Alex and I to spend a little time putting together a flyer to inform the parents about the classes. Already this morning I got a call from one of the parents asking if their 5 year old son can start coming!!! What a great age to have him begin with us! I can't wait to tell the teens that their service is being blessed already!

I have to go get ready for Meethill School - will write more later today - God willing!

What's our Idols?

2010-02-13T21:47:00.002Z

Just a little update. We had a really great class on Friday night with the teens. I missed last Friday because I was sick and was happy to be there and excited to teach them. I had been thoughtful about the lesson for the whole week and knew it would be a blessing to them if I could only get the message across in an engaging way. We talked about "IDOLS" and how that today more that ever we need to be aware of their power and purpose of distracting out focus from God. It was toward the end when I asked for their input and what they had understood the lesson to be, that I knew God had been active. Their responses were right on the money and the core of older teens continue to show that the principles and the Word are having an effect and taking root in their thinking. The old "Time will Tell" phrase will be the measure and we will just have to continue planting, watering and praying. Time flew on Friday and even though I am still trying to kick this flu bug, I know all who were there received a blessing and God's name was lifted up.

After I got through on Monday afternoon with football training at Crimond School I was invited into the head teacher's office and asked to take another younger group for some coaching. I was delighted and agreed to give it a try. The head teacher was concerned that there was little by way of sports for the younger ones and thought I could fill a void for the school. This will mean on Mondays I will be with the Crimond school for most of the afternoon from around 2.00pm through to 4.30pm - great stuff!!

Well, we are off tomorrow down to Sterling to hear Amy perform with NYCOS (National Youth Choir of Scotland). We will leave right after the morning worship. It is always a treat to listen to the Choir - they are something special.

That's it for now - God bless!

Happy Times!

2010-02-06T11:25:00.005Z

Just wanted to share some good news about Amy's weekend. Amy took part in the Fife Music Festival and came out on top! She is in the picture with her prize. Amy knows most of the girls well since they share the same singing teacher. Fenella went down with Amy on the Wednesday and I travelled down on the Thursday to see Amy's recital. It was all a bit tense, but when Amy stepped out and sang her 3 pieces it was so obvious to Fenella and I why Amy has chosen this path - she was amazing!

One other quick entry. Last Saturday night we went to "The Snow Ball." It was nice to see Fenella and the girls get excited about the night out and the whole clothes and hair thing. Not to be outdone I was encouraged to put on the kilt. If I say so myself we are a rather fetching looking family. The night itself was great. We had some food and the rest of the night was a Ceilidh. Fenella and I had a great time trying out some Scottish Country Dancing. There were times we went up thinking we knew the moves only to find out we didn't. It was so much fun! We had some great company at our table. A couple of days later we got a card through the door commenting on how much everyone had enjoyed Amy and Beth being there and for their very pleasant company. Again Fenella and I were chuffed and thank God our older girls are growing.

God Bless!

Worth the Wait!

2010-02-04T13:42:00.005Z

I know it's been a while and I am going to stop saying sorry and just try harder to get more active with my blog. I am aware that many of you, especially in the States, rely on this to keep current with what's going on in our ministry here. Well, as the title suggests, this is a very exciting entry! As you are aware we had been working on the "Focus Week" for a number of weeks and it has now come and gone - but what a week it was! Alex and I were both individually involved and able to teach in various classes through the week about the person of Jesus, the proof of His existance, and about who He said He was. I can remember very few occations where I have been more excited about being a servant in the Kingdom. There was something special about this particular opportunity - I don't know if it was the age range that inspired me, since I am mostly accustomed to teaching in the primary schools, whatever the reason I just know God used me powerfully for the good of so many teens in Peterhead Academy. Just walking around the campus and being thrilled by the amount of teens who I have known over the years, either through the classes at church or the assemblies and activities in the primary schools - It was amazing! I am not saying this to blow some kind of personal trumpet, but I tend to forget the impact God has been through my ministry over the years. There were tons of kids, many I had forgoten, but many I have fond memories off. I met one long haired blond boy, who was now 15 years old, and he was talking to me as if he knew me well. I had to stop him in his conversation and ask, "Who are you?" He told me he was Matthew and he came to Tuesday night Boys Class when he was 6 years old! He remembered me from all those years ago. I have many memories of Matthew, who used to talk with a bit of a lisp, and was the cutest little boy! He came to classes when Lisa Stiles was here helping out and he remembered Lisa too. Time flies!!! Lewis Buchan "Snoops" is another who was so encouraging to spend time with and again we shared good times! Lewis is a faithful Christian and is living a focused and involved life. There were many similar stories that caused so many memories throughout the week to flood my mind, it was a true blessing without the fact I was in the classroom teaching Christ!

Right, time to make you all jealous!!! I was invited into the school to teach about the Christ and to spark discussion about who He was and what He did. I was given 40 minute slots, but this always ran into 80 minutes! Many of the classes were double periods and oroginally I was to teach for a single period, but the teachers would insist we continued into the second period! The discussions were active and inspirational! We discussed a number of artist impressions of Jesus there were 7 pictures ranging from a boxer in a ring to a Jamacan looking Jesus. The pictures were great for breaking the ice and led to some brilliant observations from the teens. There was usually a great deal of discussion over the "Rebelious Jesus" and also the "Light of the World" one too. From the pictures we then took a True/False test and investigated some stereotypes and missconceptions about Jesus. In all we were always struggling for time and even though we had an hour and 20 minutes, we were always in disbelief when the end of period bell would sound. I can only go by the level of involvment and the active discussion as to how engaged the students were and I can honestly say the level was high! I have no doubt that Christ was lifted high and many lives were having to face the challenge of answering the question in their owm minds as to who He was and what He came to do. When the weeks teaching was over I was tired, but soooo wanting to do more! I have no doubt that this is an area of influence I can be useful in God's hand and I pray for more opportunity to serve in the academy. I met with the head of religious study earlier this week and we are looking at ways to continue the contact with the academy - your prayers would be appreciated! We got to teach the 1st, 2nd and 3rd year pupils, that's 12-15 year olds.

I feel like I have only touched the hem of the garment in trying to share the experience with you all, but there it is. I know my life has been inspired because of seeing God's Word work powerfully in the hearst and minds of those young people and their lives were too, just hope there is opportunity to keep watering the seed!

One last comment on this entry - please stay with me for a little longer. During our last Friday night class with the teens at church we again got a little insight into where some of their lives are in light of Christ. I asked the question, "What do you believe to be true about Jesus Christ?" I stressed that I wanted truthful answers and that it was OK to put doubts and uncertanty on the answer. Shaun Main relayed this series of statements about his Jesus that shocked me. This is not for added drama, but the hairs on the back of my neck did stand tall - it was really that profound! There were more outstanding statements that made us take note and also some honest doubts shared too. Rachel talked about her feeling of sitting on the fence and struggling to make that final step to committing to Christ. What happened next was beautiful! John Campbell who we have been prodding for months to take an active part in the teaching of the teens made a convicting point to the class. He responded to Rachel's honesty about sitting on the fence and shared his experience of being challenged by a young girl at camp one year who simply asked, "Why are you not a Christian?" John shared how he was so ashamed because he could not give her a reason. For the following days he was haunted by her question and this was the spark that convicted him to do something about it. There was silence the whole time John spoke and I could see the engaged looks in ALL their faces. God was active through John and hearts were soft! Our prayer continues for these young lives that are faithfully trying to make sense of Jesus in spite of living in Christ-less homes.

God is good and His love endures Forever!

PS. The strangest thing just happened for the first time - I clicked the "Spell check" and nothing was highlighted!!! (If you know me you will understand why this is such a big deal)

Snow - Hinderence or Blessing?

2010-01-09T12:06:00.005Z

The past week has been dominated by snow. The schools have been out and travel has been restricted to only go out is necessary. I can't tell a lie and say I have not enjoyed the extended time out, but at the same time I am getting a wee bit anxious and starting to "chomp at the bit." I was sad last night to have to cancel our Friday night Teen class. I was ready get stuck in and enjoy the first class of the new term, however, the weather and the fact that Alex was still in America, John was out in the middle of the North Sea and Angie was feeling under the weather, meant I didn't have a back-up adult. Today I need to pick myself up and get ready for things to start next week. Looks like the first class will be Monday night with the younger kids. The truth might be that this class is a fitting one to start the new year out with. Over the past months Monday nights have really thrived and we have a fantastic bunch faithfully coming and enjoying their class. All this may be a prod to notice the potential that this group are and to see the joy in their young lives. Whatever is going on there is one thing that is constant - I am ready for the new term and am excited about all the opportunity that this year will bring. God is Great and His hand continues to hold out lives that need Him and the classes are a channel of blessing to bring about His will.

Well, I was a bit lost yesterday when I realised the class had to be cancelled and in some weird way I noticed the sky and the beautiful colours that were on display. I was on my way to the church building to check all was well when I was grabbed by the beauty. I went home and got my camera and began to notice the beauty that was so obviously all around us. The snow that I thought was a "thorn" in preventing ministry had become a rich blessing that I could not escape.

God is Great and we are surrounded by His beauty!

Made it through December - Yeah!

2009-12-30T10:06:00.010Z

Happy New Year!!!

For all of you that know our family well, you will know that December is crazy without all the Christmas and end of year stuff thrown in the mix. We have had an amazing month! It was Fenella an my 20th wedding anniversary on the 1st, it was Holly and Hannah's 9th birthday on the 4th, it was my birthday on the 12th, it was Amy's 18th birthday on the 21st and today it is Fenella's birthday. On top of all this I'm sure Fenella commented that we have been to 15 various concerts and school services with the girls and Fenella's various orchestras and choirs. There was almost too much activity and not enough time to enjoy everything that was happening. This much I know, however, my five girls have made me so proud and as a result I have the joy of being their dad and husband.

This month was crazy and amazing all at the same time. There were times I was totally out of control and other times when it was obvious that God was the one in control. There was the time at Crimond School when Alex and I took their end of term assembly and just knew we were in God's hand as we connected with the kids and saw the Spirit fill the atmosphere. The staff and kids were great and the flow of the assembly was special. End of term stuff is a unique time, especially at this time of year. There was only one school I had heard that did not have some sort of "Nativity" focus during their Christmas concerts. And before we get all uptight about the whole Christmas not being the actual birth etc... I am really delighted about this time of year because there are so many families who HAVE to talk about the Christ because their children are coming home singing the carols and the songs for their concerts. There are loads of children and parents receiving a blessing as a result of this time of year - Fantastic!

In our classes we had good reason to be happy. We had our Christmas party for the Primary school age. It was so much fun and a fine way to see the year out. Everyone had a blast and as usual we never got through all the games we had planned, but that's OK because when time flies you know it is time well spent. On Wednesday we had a movie night to close out. We watched the Veggitales "Saint Nicholas." The kids enjoyed the message and the time of fellowship. We began meeting earlier on Wednesday nights to incorporate more Fellowship time. Since we started this it has been a great success and the kids are thriving around some "Old Fashioned" games like, Yahtzee, Draughts (Checkers), Dominoes, Snakes and Ladders etc... Wednesday nights are a joy and we are excited to continue this format into next year. Again we are reminded of the need for constant evaluation and change to make sure blessing can be found when the kids come into our care. On Friday we had a good last class. The worship time continues to be a challenge. Since we had an influx of younger teens it has changed the class. Although this is a trying time just now, I am confident things will move on as the "New" begin to understand and accept what we are about. In spite of some trials we still had some nuggets of gold. The message we wanted to get across was that we will only have content lives when we know we are prepared for what life throws at us. We challenged the group to write out something about themselves that they wanted to change and that would help their character be more like Christ. I have a stack of 25 statements of varied content from teens who want to improve their lives. Later in the new year we will visit these and evaluate. This lesson was on the tail of our last challenge for the group to be more prayerful and asking God's help to bring about blessing in their lives and also for someone else in the group. There are some trials ahead for this class, but God willing, they will be overcome with something good.

I have to be honest and share that this term has been tough. It is becoming so obvious that encouragement and support are essential. This break has been timely and refreshing. Please continue to pray for us.

God bless us all in 2010!

Following in their big sisters "Musical" Footsteps!

2009-12-18T17:29:00.003Z

This was taken this morning at their School Christmas Service! They went on to play "Jingle Bells" but our camera ran out of battery - hence the rather abrupt end to the clip! The piano accompanist, who goes around all the schools, said they were the best he had heard. Fenella and I can't believe where all this talent comes from - certainly not me!

P.S. Holly and Hannah are the two red heads on the left!

Spirit willing - Flesh weak!

2009-11-19T22:53:00.004Z

So much to say so little time to say it! It's late and I know it's been ages since my last update - so here goes! Hope my memory serves me well. There have been three big things and tons of regular stuff. My work in the schools has been so rich these past weeks - I have been amazed at the responses to the assembly talks. It is obvious that God is blessing many through the ministry of opportunity in the schools. This past round of talks I have shared a lesson based on Disney's interpretation of Dickens "A Christmas Carol." The kids describe the character of Scrooge as anything from grumpy and selfish to afraid and lonely. We talk about the absence of kindness and how that can make us unhappy. I challenged the children to stop twice each day and decide to do something kind for someone else. I told them that I don't want any of them turning into the kind of person Scrooge was. As the kids left the hall they shared what kind things they were going to do. I love being a channel of blessing! The lunchtime clubs and other school involvement is going great. I wish I could convey the relationships I have with the staff at the schools - it's all good stuff.

We had a good night this past Sunday. Alex and I organized a night of fellowship around the theme of "Deal or No Deal." We had a cup of tea and stuff when everyone arrived so that we were cosy and connected before getting together in worship. John Campbell led the singing and welcomed everyone. Alex and I shared the lesson time and presented lessons with "Deal or No Deal" as the theme. I challenged everyone from 2 Kings where God told the people to Dig Ditches in order to hold the blessing of rain that He was going to send. Unless we are anticipating and planning for God's blessing, our purpose and fullness will always be compromised - our ditches need to be big! And of course we finished with the obvious challenge of sharing Christ as God's part of the deal and asking the question will you accept or reject God's deal? After the meeting time we played the game with some added twists. We stuck some Quick Draw and Duel stars to some of the boxes so that there would be some competition. For the quick draw there were two bibles and the first to turn to the Book, Chapter and Verse - won. For the duels we had a putting contest. The night was fantastic! To top it all the last team to play actually finished up with the choice of the £5 or £250,000 boxes! They did not deal and ended up winning the £250,000! We were all in shock that this had actually worked out. (by the way there was no actual real money prizes).

To be continued....

Tiredness has got the best of me - God bless!

Things never stay the same!

2009-11-06T09:29:00.006Z

We've had a very full past few weeks - hence the neglect of this blog! I know I am going to suffer while writing this one because the memories will have got a little dim. There are a few highlights I want to share in this entry. Firstly, preaching, I was blessed the last two weekends as I studied for the gospel two weeks ago and the morning exhortation last week. The gospel was focused on the statement, "He restores my soul..." For some reason that lay on my heart for the whole week leading up and became the motivation for the lesson. I simply talked about God's character seeking to Restore, His plan of Salvation seeking to Restore and our mission as the church must be to seek to Restore. Last Sunday morning, again there was an underlying thought in my mind that motivated the lesson, "Set free to do what?" I looked at 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 and went with three obvious purposes there - We are to, "... do all for the glory of God, "Seek the Good in others and Salvation for the Lost. I came across a cool quote in relation to seeking the good in others, "A pat on the back is only a few vertebrae removed from a kick up the backside, but is miles ahead in results!" I know I have been blessed in preparing these lessons.

The title of this blog, "Things never stay the same" is in response to the evidence being seen in our Friday night class with the teens. Before the October holidays we thought things were going well and the group were gelling nicely. However, a new influx of younger teens have totally changed the dynamic of the class. After reasoning things through with John and Alex over coffee yesterday, we concluded that it is a good thing. There is life and new faces who have accepted the invite to come and see. We have come up with a new plan that involves the older and more focused teens. We will cancel the fourth Friday night class in the month and have a class on the Thursday night especially for the older ones who need more specific and relevant stuff. We have reasoned that this will give the younger ones something to aspire to and the older ones evidence that we are taking their needs seriously. We are prayerful that this is the direction God is opening up to us and hopeful that His Spirit will have room in this new arena to work powerfully. Please keep this in your prayers!

I was invited to come and be a part of an impact planing committee to use the opportunity that is available to minister within the High School! I have been quietly desiring an opportunity like this to be able to minister in the Academy. Alex and I went to the meeting and were excited to be a part of the events. We are in a great place with our classes at the church for the academy age kids to reach and influence more. We will be invited into the academy to hold class discussion on Christian viewpoints and hold bigger scale assembly talks on things from a Godly perspective. The event will run in late January 2010 and already my heart is singing for joy. Again we need your prayers in light of this opportunity and how to wisely develop this into something more so that we can have a more regular and consistent influence in the Academy - incidentally there are 1,500 students attending Peterhead Academy!

Last Monday night we had an "Arty Party" with our younger class. We challenged them to come dressed up in colourful clothes. We had an amazing time with the kids! We organized a challenge where we stuck around 300 "Arty Party" posters all over the building walls and sent out 3 kids at a time to find as many as they could in 30 seconds. It was simple but hugely effective! We also had extreme ducking for apples, where we filled a paddling pool with water and had 4 kids at a time trying to get their apple out first. We made a simple change to the old classic "Chocolate Game" by having the kids pair up and get stuck into the huge bar of chocolate with one holding a fork in their left hand and the other a knife in their right hand. Rolling a six meant the kids ran up and put on the gloves wig and red nose before being let loose on the Big Bar of chocolate - Great fun!

I have had a good response in the schools with my latest assembly talks. I have been talking to the kids about the importance of having a good name. I lead with the movie "UP" and talk about the two promises Carl Fredrickson makes - one to his wife and one to Russell. His character depends on his keeping his word and having a good name. I talked about God loving the lips of the honest, but being disappointed with the mouths of the dis-honest. At the end of the assemblies, especially at Clerkhill, as the children left the hall many of them told me their names and what good things they had done recently. It was a lovely response to the lesson I had taught! God is great!

God bless!

Time Out!

2009-10-22T22:25:00.002+01:00

Just some pictures from our time up in Aviemore near the Cairngorm mountains. The week away was just what was needed for ALL. We were able to enjoy some time together and wake up each morning with just us to think about and enjoy. We did a bunch of stuff. One of my highlights was fun mixed with a little bit of "Oh dear, how did we end up miles from shore?" One of the days Amy made the suggestion that we all go canoeing - sound like fun. Fenella and Beth decided to sit this one out and left me and Amy explore the beauty of Loch Insch. Amy took Hannah in her Canadian Canoe and I took Holly in mine. Anyway to cut a long story short... we ended up way out in the middle of the loch and drifting further and further from the shore. Amy didn't have the strength to get her boat turned because the current was so strong. Hannah was at the front of her canoe paddling like mad, with her paddle barely touching the water, but to no avail. We started to get a little bit panicked as we drifted all the more away from where we needed to be. In the end I had to tie both canoe's together and tow Amy's canoe home. By the time we reached the shore again we were wrecked! We walked in to see Fenella and Beth shaking from exhaustion.

I can't tell you how refreshing the time away with Fenella and the girls was! I would hardly say we were rested because we were on the go the whole time, but refreshed - absolutely! I love my family and thank God for last week.

A couple of things just in closing. My uncle Alex has had his surgery and ended up having a triple heart bypass. The first day and a half after the surgery were a bit shaky, but he is now home and slowly recovering. Last night we had the joy of witnessing a new creation as Shanni committed her life to Christ. We had a great time in fellowship afterward and shared in the joy of her salvation. Earlier last week Auntie Bett passed away. Bett was real character and lived a full and faithful life. Anyone who has visited Peterhead will have been touched by the gentleness and sweet spirited Auntie Bett! The church rejoices in her faith and hope, but will miss her greatly.

More soon - God bless!

UP and away!

2009-10-09T21:44:00.003+01:00

Just a quick note about our outing with the younger kids who come to classes. We took a group of 27 through to Aberdeen. It was fantastic! I am exhausted and have a sore head, but I am so proud of the way the kids behaved and enjoyed the excitement of a night out. First we went to eat at burger king. I thought beforehand that if there was going to be stress it would be there, but no, nothing at all! Everyone went through the line, ordered their food and cleaned up afterwards. There was never a raised voice and never any hint of discipline needing to be handed out - what a joy! The movie we went to see was Disney's "UP" and it was great for everyone. The journey home was quiet, everyone was so tired there was peace - what more can I say? I can not say enough good things about the group and the night we had. I have to say a big thanks to John and Alex. We had two mini buses and a car to get everyone through. Angie and Donna were magic and added that much needed motherly touch to the evening. We had C.J. and Megan, J.P, Thomas and Rachel teen helpers who were all a great help - Thanks all! God is great and this was a great way to finish up this term and leave us all anticipating good things when classes start back in a fortnight's time.

I am away to my bed to flake out on my pillow and wake up ready for our week away to Aviemore - yippee!

God Bless!

Never a Dull Moment!

2009-10-07T09:22:00.003+01:00

This has been a full week! It's the last week of term - hooray! On Saturday I get to spend a whole week with no distractions and hibernate with my family up in Aviemore. We are all excited and ready for a breather. Fenella has been working extra hours this past month to help out in the run up to December. Christmas, 5 of our 6 birthdays and our anniversary all land in December! Fenella is ready to get back to normal and today she has the day off - Yeah! We are going out for tea later this morning to Simpson's. Can't remember the last time we were able to do this, however I am just glad we can get out today. Fenella and Amy were involved in a concert with "HHCOS." Fenella was horrified that she was right on the front row, but by the second half was able to relax and enjoy the performance. They did really well and although the music choice in the 1st half was a bit over my head the second half was gorgeous and I was proud of my two girls singing their hearts out. The girls have had exciting times and are doing so well. Amy has just got the part as "Iolanthe" in her 1st proper opera! At the auditions she made the panel cry with her chosen piece. We are all delighted for her and can't wait till April next year to see her in action! Beth is doing well at Dyce and has seemingly got another natural talent in the area of conducting! Her class were given the task to conduct the group and Beth caught every ones attention. It just shows that Beth just oozes musicality (jeepers, almost sound as if I know what I am talking about). Holly and Hannah are so excited about their bikes! On Tuesday's after school we have been getting out and they have been cycling round the track not far from our house. Holly if off like a whippet! Hannah needs to be coaxed and encouraged till her confidence is up then she doesn't stop - she goes for distance, Holly goes for speed!

Right, this past week has really hit home the diversity within ministry. It really is a multi tasking role we are called to do. From working in the schools with youngsters and sharing time with teens to preaching with adults in mind. Counselling to help bring purpose and focus to a hospital visits and spending time with a family who had lost their father. When Paul said he had become all things to all men, I can catch a glimpse of what he was meaning. In these past days I have been blessed! Although the toll is high I know my life is richer as a result of sharing in so many others. I know, without a doubt, that I can't fill every role perfectly, but I am thankful to be an instrument for the kingdom.

Things have taken a refreshing turn for the good in all the classes this past 2 weeks. We have been praying for growth on Monday nights with the primary school age children and we have seen a significant increase. I was saying to Angie on the way home from the class on Monday, "Careful what you pray for!" and we had a chuckle to ourselves. The kids who are coming are the ones who most need to be there! It is great to be able to provide a class setting that shows care and encourages godly attitudes and behaviour. The same has been true of our Wednesday night class. We are encouraged by the growth and pray that we continue to have the strength and compassion to keep giving. On Friday night we are going on an outing to Aberdeen to see the movie "UP" with the primary school age kids. No doubt we will have a blast and be able to show God's love at the same time.

Our ministry with the teens is going well too. There is growth in this area as well. Last Friday night we had 4 new teens come and they loved the class. I asked them if the will be back next week and they looked at me as if I was crazy and said, "Off course we will be back!" Working with the teens is never easy! It is very rewarding, but very intense at the same time. Friday night was a perfect example of this. We had a great class and especially the worship time. The responses and involvement was great and after there was a lot of fun and happy people. However, as I started walking home I heard crying and behind a wall. Guess what? Two of the teens who come to class who were DATING had fallen out and now the aftermath. After some counselling and calming down, things were restored to some kind of normality, but that's teen life - one minute you think things are on the up and in the next step you see the down side of working with teens. After all is said and done I am glad to be able to minister to teens, because if we are not - Satan is!

To close I need to request prayers for my uncle Alex (Shoney) Strachan. He is having heart surgery this coming Monday. His spirits are good and the family are supportive. Pray that God takes care of him.
I also need your prayers for our ministry. We are still well short of our financial needs to make up the shortfall that takes effect at the end of this year. Get in touch if there is any way you can help. We have had three responses and we thank God for this! The Levy Church in N.Little Rock, AR, Foothills Church in Searcy, AR and a lovely family in Irving,TX - Thanks again!

God bless!

No Brakes!

2009-09-25T10:22:00.003+01:00

This week has been manic! Fenella and I have seen very little of each other and it's just not good enough. I know there are times when there are the kinda weeks you are glad to see past. As always though there have been some gems. Last night we had our Teen class. What a joy! We needed to change to Thursday night because of conflicting use of the hall, but that did not effect the group who came to share in the class. We had around 20 there and apart from a couple of minor "drama" moments all was well. I am convinced that until teens are at least 16 they SHOULD NOT DATE! All the stress within the group comes from the younger teens and their inability to handle relationships. Anyway, enough about the negative. I finished up from last weeks lesson and showed the group the video of S.M. Lockridge - "He's My King." As a result of being at two funerals this week my mind had been influenced by the question, "If I had one thing to tell you before I die what would that be?" I talked about my hearts desire for them all to be safe! I talked plainly about the reality of being ready for either God's return or their time being up on this earth. The response was deep and the eye contact from the majority was fixed and focused. We finished up asking the question, "Is He YOUR King, if not Why not? Rather than play football I took time to visit with the group and spend some one on one time. I love where we are with this group! I pray that we are ready for growth! We talked about last Sunday night and everyone shared great memories from the night, both the young and the old! We are on the right track there and we just need to persevere in moving in the direction of fellowship as well as meetings. John Campbell continues to be a great role model for the group and whenever he is there I know the kids are blessed.

I spent some time this week with Thomas. He asked if we could meet up and talk, so we did. It was good to talk. We were able to be honest with each other and I pray I was able to council with Spirit filled advice to help him in his way to discovering God's purpose and will for his life. All things considered Thomas is growing and finding room to grow in his faith.

The ministries with the schools are going great! I had one of the best days on Wednesday at Anna Ritchie. It is not as regular as other schools that I get to share an assembly there, but when I do it is such a blessing! Anna Ritchie is our special needs school and when the whole school comes together for assembly it is beautiful. I was inspired to teach a lesson from something we did on Sunday night with the "Play Your Cards Right." I took the huge deck of playing cards and did the "Higher or Lower" game with the kids. They loved it and got really excited. I then talked about not always knowing what you are going to face when you come to school. We talked about what kind of "Cards" we should play when there are trying times or happy times. They were brilliant and I am glad to have got the balance right between fun and faith - God is good!

Well, this weekend Fenella and Amy are doing a performance with their Haddo Choral Group. Amy thinks it will be a piece of cake, but Fenella is not quite as confident. Fenella found out that she will be standing right in the front row of the choir! I am confident they will sound amazing and I am quietly looking forward to watching two of my girls shine.

We have managed (with a little help) to book a house up in Avemore for one of the weeks in October so we can get away as a family and enjoy a break. We are ALL looking forward to the time out. Amy and Beth have been going full tilt these past weeks and they are looking forward to some down time too. Holly and Hannah are going to be in charge of our "Schedule" and organise what we will do and see each day - FUN!

Please continue to pray for us. We are still a bit unsure as to how our money issues will be worked out, but are confident they just will be. Pray for our leadership and the direction we need to be going. These are challenging times!

God bless!

Look!

2009-09-22T20:58:00.004+01:00

On Sunday night we had one of the best nights in ages! We had around 50 come to the meeting which in itself bucked the trend of struggling to have 30 there on a regular night. The most exciting element was the spread of ages represented - we had a good MIX! We challenged the teens on Friday night to come and many did. We had a family come too! It was refreshing and gives hope!

Alex and I have been planning and working behind the scenes for the past two weeks. We are committed to the idea that we need more fellowship and time to talk as the body and not simply come together for "Meetings." Rather than going straight into the meeting we started with a cup of tea and doughnuts. We wanted everyone to feel closer to one another before coming together to worship. When we began the service many commented about how good the singing was. Alex and I shared a 10 minute lesson each. We based the whole night around the theme of two games shows, "The price is right" and "Play your cards right." Alex took the "Price is right" and talked about God paying the ultimate price in order that our relationship with God might be restored and enjoyed. I took "Play your cards right" and talked about how we need to live life depending on God's unchanging promises and not live as if we have no control of what comes next. When the meeting was over we then stayed behind for some time enjoying good company and some fun. We had re-created some of the games from the shows. Cliffhanger, Hole in One, Ready-Aim-Fire and Higher or Lower. Everyone had a great time and it was especially encouraging to have such a spread of ages sharing the same time and space together!

As you can see from the photo's there were plenty of smiles all round! Alex did a fantastic job keeping things going and I got a surprise to discover how natural he was in the "Games show host" mode - he was brilliant! Everyone was game for a laugh which meant there was never a dull moment. I have no doubt MUCH good was done to bridge the gap from young to old.

I must make a closing comment about our Friday nights. The past two have been something special and I am confident the Spirit is active in bringing about what is best. The group have been a joy to teach and on the 1st Friday we shared the things we struggle with most. The group, anonymously, wrote their struggles on a piece of paper and I collected them in and as a group we discussed some at random. We talked for ages and the group were honest and real as they openly shared the reality of their worlds. In the end I pulled everything together with commenting on the fact that without Christ living in us we will always be dragged down by our failings and it's only when we have Christ that our focus can be set on something pure and powerful. This past Friday I put a slide up with all the sins the group had confessed the week before and in the following slide I put up the many things that Christ does and accomplishes for us and in us. The impact was good and I know the seeds are going deep - Praise God!

We have much to be thankful about and I ask for your continued prayers! It is because of prayer we are seeing these precious times.

God bless!

That sinking feeling again!

2009-09-11T10:34:00.002+01:00

I know the title of this blog is a bit dramatic, but there is an element of truth in it all the same. We are beginning the process of having to raise funds to support my family in ministry again. Every now and again we have to stop and devote time to this "Hard" part of ministry. We have lost some support and need to try and replace $1,250 a month. This is a huge part of our support and we are well aware of the implications this causes my family. This is our 10th year in ministry since leaving the physical fishing nets for the spiritual ones. We have been in this position before and God has always provided! This gives me hope and assurance that He will again come to our aid - if He is willing. I know that my God is "able to do immeasurably more" and I put my trust in His people to see the usefulness of our ministry here in Peterhead, Scotland. Anyone who has stood where I am standing knows the path ahead. In my experience it has never been an easy path, but it has always been a blessed one. I am continually amazed by the direction this journey takes and the people and families I have come to know and love as a result of previous journeys. Setting out with the purpose of finding churches or individuals to invest in the work of the kingdom is not always as simple as you might imagine. For me is is one of the hardest things I have to overcome. I find it tough to sell myself, which although misses the point of my ministry altogether, I have to do in order to be able to stand before churches and missions teams to share what God is doing through me and many here in Peterhead. I know this is a stab in the dark, but I also know that behind these words is an awesome God, so I might be underestimating His plans even as I write this. If you are in a position to help get my appeal to the right people or in fact are moved to help yourself, please help me in this journey. Either leave a comment or e-mail me at bfstrachan@aol.com if you can help. If you have minute or two please lift a petition to our Father on our behalf - God bless!

This is not my usual style, but the times call for action and I will use whatever means I have to make sure I can continue to serve in this place of lost souls. I have a responsibility to Fenella and my girls first and I need to know as a father that they are provided for. I pray that God finds us useful and that this weight is lifted soon.

God bless!

2009-09-09T10:05:00.005+01:00

Over the past couple of weeks we have been non stop and I hate to think the miles we have covered getting to and from events and venues. I need to start off with the Aberdeen Youth Weekend! Alex, Angie and I took a group of 17 teens, all of whom have varying depths of faith and commitment to God, through to Aberdeen for the weekend. Before leaving with the group I had asked many to be praying for us and I myself had spent much time wrestling in prayer to determine whether it was wise and safe to be taking this group away and to be responsible for them. Most of the group I had zero concern, but there were a couple I had some worries about and thus the reason for wrestling in prayer. I need to say at this point how blessed we were and how well everyone responded to the tone of the weekend. It was great to be able to spend so much time and give so much more attention to relationship than we are accustomed to. I know everyone received their fill and some to overflowing with the living water. There was only the one occasion that I had reason to be concerned and in the end it was simply a cry for attention. There was one in the group that was obviously not ready to be in my care away from home and who gave reason for me not to trust him, but even he showed promise and evidence that the seed is taking root.

We had our traditional marathon football match and this year did not disappoint! Having such a big group through with us meant that from the beginning there was a great game going and as others arrived things just kept getting better till there was so many you didn't know who was on your team. I love Aberdeen Youth Weekend! There is something about this event and the anticipation of great things is so obvious! All the teens are together in one place the whole time and having the use of the YMCA building is brilliant! There are so many options and ways to create little fellowships, whether it's around the snooker tables or in the hall playing football or in the chill out rooms - there is just so much potential for good. Ian Cameron from East Kilbride took the lessons on the theme of "Heroes of the Faith" and did a fantastic job. My personal favorite was his exploration into Samson's life. I had the joy of leading one of the discussion groups. I had most of our older boys and Robert Philips too. Our group was amazing! It was so easy to get the guys to open up and share where they are in their "Faith" and the struggles they face as a result.

I know Angie and Alex were encouraged as a result of the weekend. It goes without saying that we were all exhausted from lack of sleep and abnormally high activity levels! In all the weekend gave us another pointer as to where some of the teens are in their journey to find God and to accept Christ. I have to say that I am hopeful and although the road is often times tough, there is evidence that, yes of course, God is active, but that the group are responding to His call.

This past week I have taken 5 school assemblies. What a JOY! We stumbled across a great lesson during our Monday night class with the younger kids. We were supposed to be talking about some of the things Jesus is, but for some reason the kids diverted the path and we had an amazing lesson talking about some evidences of God's design from the Giraffe and Bombardier Beetle. I had studied this stuff a few years ago in prep for teaching at camp Tayside and for some reason this was so relevant for this Monday night's class. When I saw how engrossed the group were on Monday I thought hmmm... So these past assemblies I have been sharing how amazing God's design is in His creation. I have loved presenting this stuff and the kids are responding sooo well, it's a great blessing all round!

School clubs are going really well too! Anna Ritchie on Friday Afternoon continues to inspire me. I have started teaching Volleyball at Central school and this too is going great. I have made the decision to have most of my school clubs at lunch times rather than after school. Crimond school on a Monday is the only "After School Club" I have. So it's Tuesday, Thursday and Friday lunch times and Monday and Friday Afternoons I get to play with the school kids! There is no doubt that God continues to bless me so that I in turn can bless many.

This past weekend we were up in Buckie to encourage the church there. The truth continues to be, however, that we are the ones being encouraged! We left the house in a frantic blur trying to leave in time to make the trip up in time for the worship. After being reminded that driving aggressively can be dangerous I resolved in my heart to drive safely and if God would make sure the roads were quiet - the deal was struck. Amazingly, no providentially, we arrived in Buckie at the appointed time. The roads were quiet and there was no need to push the limits! Anyway, I had the morning and evening meetings and preached two encouraging lessons. If I were a boxer Bill Pirrie would have to be in my corner with me! He is such an encourager! Both he and Elenor would have to be in my personal Hebrews 11. We spent the day with Hunter and Elaine, Louise and her twin girls Courtney and Teegan, Samantha, and Alan and Grace Johnstone. We had a great day - plenty fellowship and encouragement all round. We love going up to Buckie!

More soon - God bless!

Prayers needed

2009-08-25T11:52:00.002+01:00

This past week has been great! We got all the classes up and running again for the new term and most of the school stuff is up and running too - amazing! On Friday night with the teens we sat for a while and talked about our summer. I asked the kids, "Did you take time to notice God at any point through the summer?" I wanted to try to gauge if the kids were thinking godly things when they are away from classes and out there on their own. We had some good responses one of the most obvious was Thomas' comments about watching his mum recover from serious illness and how his mum would always confirm it was because of God that she came through it all. We talked about this coming term and what we needed to get from the class. We are excited about this coming Friday when 17 of us will spend the weekend at the Aberdeen Youth Weekend. Alex, Angie and myself will take a group of 14 teens through! I am for the most part excited about taking the group, however I am praying that one or two respond well to being in a healthy setting and away from their "Normal" unhealthy surroundings. I am confident, and have shared with the group my faith in them, that they will thrive in the company at Aberdeen. We have a bunch of older teens now who are really beginning to stabilise the group and are proving to be sound examples for the rest to follow. In light of the weekend I ask for you all to be in prayer for us. I know God has plans for our group and this weekend will play a huge part in the continual watering of their faith and their desire to find Christ. I continue to have faith that God will do great things in and through these young lives and I ask for your support in prayer.

On Sunday it was my joy to preach in the morning. I was sooo encouraged and challenged as I prepared the message. My heart finally rested in John 12:1-11 when Mary comes to Christ and shows her unreserved devotion and love to her Lord. I was challenged to ask the question, "Do I approach Christ in this same way?" The contrast between Mary's beautiful worship and Judas' shock at what he was witnessing made for a great lesson. I was humbled to consider whether I come to lavish my gift on Christ or whether like Judas I come wondering what will be in it for me! The church responded well to the message and I pray we were challenged to be more like Mary in her devotion to Christ.

Yesterday I had a great time in the morning meeting with Angie and Alex as we talked about what we wanted to do with the Monday night class for the primary school kids. The time was well spent! I am grateful to God for the obvious concern and love expressed for the kids and our desire to share good things with them. We came up with some ideas for Angie to take a group of kids at the start of the class and make some cards. The cards were to let some kids who came a while ago, but no longer come, that we miss them and would love to see them back. Angie will also work on some crafts and cool things to make up a goody box in time for Christmas. The class last night was fantastic! Time seemed to fly. I asked Alex what time it was and it was 7.40! We had so much fun with the kids and they all left very happy and influenced for good!

I mentioned that the school ministries are up and running too. I must try to share some of the joy I receive at the beginning of a new term. I will be out and about and my mobile will ring, on the phone will be a school inviting me to take assemblies and giving me the dates for the term! It is such an encouragement to know that God is being invited to school and I get the joy of bringing Him to the kids! Alex and I have already enjoyed the first session back at Anna Ritchie school. In a way it is fitting that they were the first because I have to admit I have a special place in my heart for our ministry there. We play football every Friday afternoon and the head teacher is always one of the first to call at the beginning of term to make sure we are coming! We have about 15+ kids and the joy that is given and received is priceless - God is great! Anyway, this week sees the start of most of our school activities, so again I ask for your prayers in this amazing opportunity we have to work with the schools.

I will finish with some family news. I have to say that I am delighted to be the father of four beautiful girls! Each has given me great joy and reason to be proud. Amy has started a new job at a shoe store. Shaun and Andrew Main's mum called and asked if Amy wanted a job! She knew Amy would be reliable and asked for her specifically. Amy has so much maturity and sense of responsibility. Amy has also taken on two music students and is teaching piano, again this was due to her piano teacher recommending Amy to families who had been on her waiting list for a while and rather that them loosing interest asked if Amy would take them on as students! These are healthy signs but I am most encouraged by witnessing Amy take a lead in spiritual things. I watched her along with Shireen and Danielle come up with some service ideas that will do much good for our church. Well, Beth too is maturing fast! She continues to thrive at her new school and loves music! Fenella shared something with me last night that brought a lump to my heart. Beth had been commenting how that there were no Christians that she knew of at the new school and had decided to devote some of her study time to the bible and her prayer journal. It's one thing for Fenella and I to encourage this kind of thing, but quite something else when it is freely give through choice. We do miss Beth, big time, through the week and we know it is hard for her sometimes to be away from her family. She phones in the morning before jumping on the school bus and it lights up our start to the day.

Holly and Hannah have started in the junior orchestra! They play the violin and this past Saturday morning was their first time to rehearsals. They enjoyed it and were excited that at their first concert they will be playing one of their favorite pieces, that Amy and Beth played with their orchestras, "The Lord of the dance." They are enjoying their P5 class and their new teacher, Mrs McRory. Both are very excited about their projects for this term, Holly has "Roald Dhal" and Hannah has "The Royal Family." Both are putting together Power Points and telling me that they need memory sticks for school to get their files too and from school - sign of the times eh! Like their big sisters, Holly and Hannah enjoy their classes at church. They are very active on Monday and Wednesday nights and already show a keen desire and depth for their faith.

Fenella and I are muddling through. We have all the strains and concerns that are common to any family - like where is the money going to come from for University and the constant search for money to cover that extra lessons or books the girls need as they add to their abilities and stretch their gifts. When everything is said and done I would not change a thing! Fenella continues to be the wind in my sails. When I get to stressing and worrying, Fenella fills my sails with the needed breezes to keep me going. I am reminded of my facebook status which is, "Love is all around me!"

God bless and keep us in your prayers.

Can't believe Summers Over!

2009-08-19T12:03:00.004+01:00

The summer has flown in and I can't believe we were dropping Beth off at Dyce on Monday and taking Holly and Hannah to school yesterday! We had a full summer, but got everything done we needed to. I suppose you could say we had a "budget" summer, since the finances are tight just now. Our highlight of the summer was camp! The girls had a fabulous time and as ever the whole camp atmosphere and focus fed all our souls. Fenella had the toughest time, being in the kitchen all week and missing out on a lot of the Assembly and Devotional time. The truth is that camp this year proved to be a timely tonic for my soul. We had Dan Langdon and Russell Hill over because it was the 20th anniversary of camp and the lessons they taught energised my spirit. I arrived at camp ready to serve and found myself receiving all the time. The discussion group I was responsible for was again a source of joy and hope. The group of 14-16 year olds were beautiful! Their insight and vision for the kingdom was inspiring for me to listen to. It was a true joy to join in discussion about the kingdom and where we need to focus our efforts and impact our communities. I had Aaron Moyes from Kircaldy in our group and again I was encouraged to share in some good, deep spiritual talks that helped and inspired the whole group. When the week was over it was tough to leave after having received so much - good times!

We took the chance to do some work at the church building since the classes were on a break for the summer, and re-did the youth/fellowship hall. The reason for this was simple - to stop kids knocking holes in the walls. I am now delighted that the hall is safe and that the kids will feel no more shame or embarrassment when a shoulder or a knee goes through the wall. We had one wall in particular which was incredibly soft and every class we anticipated more damage. Fenella's dad (Jacky) and myself did all the joinery work and we had Alex helping out too. We covered the whole hall in 12mm MDF sheets 6ft high. This has significantly strengthened the walls and most importantly we have no worries when we have the kids doing active stuff. The work took us fully two weeks to complete and now that the painting and finishing's are done the hall looks great.

This summer has been a good time to step back a reflect on how things are going. I know there are things I need to improve on and having occasion to think and plan has given me a clearer picture on how to get some of this done. My main concern is not taking enough care of my own soul. I am shocked at how empty I can allow myself to run before I make a conscious effort to fuel myself and not fill myself with what everyone else needs. So, this term I hope to be more conscious of my personal spiritual well-being. This summer has also given cause to see again just how powerfully God continues to provide the opportunity for us to serve and influence. I look at the amount of schools that are open to inviting me in to share God and to help influence the kids for good, and I am still overwhelmed - richly blessed!

We had some precious time with Chrissy and Robin Vick, who were over for David and Dani's wedding and were able to spend a couple of days with us. Chrissy and Robin are two people we have shared so many life and kingdom experiences with, that we are woven together in kingdom fabric. We talked into the small hours and shared vision and hopes for God's kingdom. We anticipate their return early next year and know God has plans for their willingness and their passion for the lost.

We have been really encouraged by Shireen and Danielle these past weeks. In spite of some hard circumstances they are living by faith and have been a source of joy to Fenella and I. I am excited about the term ahead and pray that God will use them and their abilities to influence others for the good of the kingdom. We are also encouraged by Thomas and like with the girls I look forward to his influence and help this coming term.

Amy was pretty busy through the summer with the National Youth Choir of Scotland. We were traveling a fair bit to get her to rehearsals and concerts in Glasgow, Sterling and Perth. We are so blessed to be able to go and hear the Choir! At the concert in Perth and I will never forget the sound and the power of all 200+ gifted voices exploding into the song "Zadok the Priest!" The whole summer I have been humming and thinking about the songs they sung - they have lifted my spirits - thanks Amy!

Well, my head is sore from trying to remember everything, so that's it for now. In closing please keep our efforts in your prayers. We are at the begining of a new term and as always we want to be following in the footprints of the Spirit. Thank God for the opportunities we have and that we bring Christ in through the doors.

God bless!

Sprint's over - time for a breather

2009-07-10T16:51:00.004+01:00

There were times during the last couple of weeks when I didn't know if I was coming or going, but in the end had a magic end of term with the schools and finished up the classes on a high too. There are too many highlights to mention! From watching Crimond school perform "Oliver" to having so many "Thank You Teas" it was all great. I may have overdosed a little on Strawberry tarts, in fact we joked and started comparing each school's and found Crimond to be have the best Strawberry tarts. It is always so nice to be invited to all the schools and share in their end of term stuff. It is always a bitter sweet time, although it is a great time of connection and encouragement it is also the time we say goodbye to the P7's who move on up to the high school after the summer. Central School is always the toughest and this year was no different. I went armed with my marker pen in ready for the "traditional" jersey signing. I love making up Be... phrases for each of them - Be ... Amazing, Be ... Outstanding, Be Phenomenal etc... It was also my joy to be able to take part in a few end of term services when I am invited to share a message in the presence of the full school body and staff along with the parents - fantastic seed planting time!!!

We have spent some time taking our youth group on some outings. With the teens we went and spent a night in Aberdeen, leaving at 3.30 and getting home around midnight. The night was fantastic! We split up for the first part - some went to an fun-fair and some went to play football (soccer) in a big indoor sports hall. We met up and had supper at Pizza Hut and then went to the movies, again half went to "My Sisters Keeper" and half went to "Transformers." There were 21 of us went through and it was a great way to finish up after the school term had finished. With the younger kids we took them through to see "Ice Age 3." Like with the teens we had as blast. There were 13 of us went trough and great to spend time together.

On the Saturday we had our church picnic. The weather was amazing and if anything it may have been too hot! Can't believe I'm saying that - but it's true. There must have been about 50 of us, half youth and half congregation. The day was magic! We changed the venue this year and took the kids to Stuartfield instead of Aden Park. This turned out to be a good choice and having a tennis court there was a constant stream of competitions going since everyone was following the events of Wimbledon.

Looking forward to camp tayside next week!

God bless!