Jan and I celebrated Christmas with our Australian family on Christmas Eve (better scheduling for them) and ended up spending Christmas Day with three of the NBL Champion Sydney Kings. So, I guess you could say I celebrated the birth of the King of Kings in the presence of "three Kings of the Orient" (no comments here regarding which character in the nativity scene best suits me!) Well okay...that is stretching it a bit. But we had a great time (both days).
I am finally able to relax a bit now... after being asked to assist with an "official and inaugural" Prayer Meeting as part of the NBL All-Stars Game yesterday (27th Dec). This was at the request of the NBL Commissioner who attended the (very) small meeting along with myself (and Jan), the chaplain for the Hunter Pirates, one player from the Kings (and Aussie All-Stars) and one player (from the World All-Stars). So only six attending but this was with no advertising. We all agreed (and prayed) that it would be the start of something much bigger in God's timing...and with His blessing. We have been asked us to consider putting something together for the pre-season "Basketball Blitz" next year (which will take place at Coff's Harbour in September[?]).
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Thursday, November 17, 2005
A Wild Wednesday
Had a great day yesterday and wanted to document it somewhere before the memories fade...
Started much earlier than usual for me with a trip into the city for a 7:00 am Christian businessmen's meeting. I had been asked by one of the members to come along and share some of the stories of my sports ministry and mission but when I arrived I discovered that things hadn't really been set up for me to have any significant time with the group of about 12 guys. They were gracious enough to give me a couple of minutes before the study to distribute some AIA newsletters and prayer cards...and I did enjoy the Bible Study on "Mentoring"...but the highlight of the meeting for me was meeting (and subsequently networking with) one of the usual members who is a Catholic layman on a personal mission to engage Catholic businessmen in financial support of Christian mission. We "stayed after" for about an hour sharing our vision and passions with each other and I sensed a real bond with my forty-something brother. I trust the Lord will bring something from the "chance" meeting (or should I say "divinely orchestrated unknown appointment?)
Picked up (just after noon) with the weekly King's Bible Study at CJ's place..with CJ and Jason present. Jason's wife (Carla) joined us...and one of the other players who comes from time to time (his second meeting in a row). My new AIA colleague Jessica Blake was also able to attend. Jess is on her way up to Queensland for a fundraising promotional dinner next week at Southport Surf Life Saving Club. Anyhow, we were studying Galations 2:15-21 and once again marvelled in God's great grace towards us expressed so wonderously in Christ's death on our behalf...for our sins...that we might be justified. Glory!
After the study, Jason and CJ and I did some preliminary discussion on each of our roles at the upcoming "eXtreme tRaining arvo" that we are hosting for professional and elite sports personalities on 11 December. We are all excited about this and also talked a bit more about who is coming and who we still need to invite.
Had tea with Jess and Jan (Indian...well, it is true that my wife Jan does have some Indian blood in her past--as do I for that matter...but what I meant here was that we went out for Indian food!)...then dropped Jess off at the airport for the next leg of her trip...at the Legg's!
What a refreshing and inspiring co-worker God has provided for AIA Australia in the person of Jessica Blake!!! We are praying that God with raise up her financial support by the end of the year so that she can "get to work" full time with Australian women in sport. While she was here we also had a appointment with a committed Christian brother who is "high up" in a nationally franchised business that has shown financial support for women's causes in the past. He will be taking Jessica's need to the Christian owners of the company to see if they would like to "help"... so we are praying to that end.
After dropping Jess off, we hurried back to the Shire to one of the Bible Study and fellowship home groups run by our church. They had asked us to come and input on one of our favorite topics. We had decided to "tagteam" through the newly revised CCC booklet on how to be filled with and walk in the Spirit. As usual it proved to be a timely topic and stimulated a good and healthy discussion.
Almost collapsed on arrival home 15 hours after leaving. (This is definitely NOT a typical day for me so I don't want to give the wrong impression. In fact, it was so unusual that I even decided to take the time to write about it for a change.)
The funny thing is that after a very early "wake up yesterday" and a relatively late bedtime, my mind (if not my eyes) popped open at 6:00 am this morning with some great ideas that eventually motivated me to roll out of the sack at 6:30 to make some journal entries before I forgot everything I believe the Lord was trying to say to me!
But that's another story for another day.
Kings play Townsville tonight in Sydney marking (Coach) Brian Goorjian's 600th Professional Game. (His winning percentage over a 19-year NBL career is a stunning 69.8 per cent from a 417-181 win/loss record to go with his five championships from 10 grand finals.) I have written a special "blessing" for him which I intend to give him tonight. My prayer is that it will enrich him even more at this special milestone of his life and career.
Started much earlier than usual for me with a trip into the city for a 7:00 am Christian businessmen's meeting. I had been asked by one of the members to come along and share some of the stories of my sports ministry and mission but when I arrived I discovered that things hadn't really been set up for me to have any significant time with the group of about 12 guys. They were gracious enough to give me a couple of minutes before the study to distribute some AIA newsletters and prayer cards...and I did enjoy the Bible Study on "Mentoring"...but the highlight of the meeting for me was meeting (and subsequently networking with) one of the usual members who is a Catholic layman on a personal mission to engage Catholic businessmen in financial support of Christian mission. We "stayed after" for about an hour sharing our vision and passions with each other and I sensed a real bond with my forty-something brother. I trust the Lord will bring something from the "chance" meeting (or should I say "divinely orchestrated unknown appointment?)
Picked up (just after noon) with the weekly King's Bible Study at CJ's place..with CJ and Jason present. Jason's wife (Carla) joined us...and one of the other players who comes from time to time (his second meeting in a row). My new AIA colleague Jessica Blake was also able to attend. Jess is on her way up to Queensland for a fundraising promotional dinner next week at Southport Surf Life Saving Club. Anyhow, we were studying Galations 2:15-21 and once again marvelled in God's great grace towards us expressed so wonderously in Christ's death on our behalf...for our sins...that we might be justified. Glory!
After the study, Jason and CJ and I did some preliminary discussion on each of our roles at the upcoming "eXtreme tRaining arvo" that we are hosting for professional and elite sports personalities on 11 December. We are all excited about this and also talked a bit more about who is coming and who we still need to invite.
Had tea with Jess and Jan (Indian...well, it is true that my wife Jan does have some Indian blood in her past--as do I for that matter...but what I meant here was that we went out for Indian food!)...then dropped Jess off at the airport for the next leg of her trip...at the Legg's!
What a refreshing and inspiring co-worker God has provided for AIA Australia in the person of Jessica Blake!!! We are praying that God with raise up her financial support by the end of the year so that she can "get to work" full time with Australian women in sport. While she was here we also had a appointment with a committed Christian brother who is "high up" in a nationally franchised business that has shown financial support for women's causes in the past. He will be taking Jessica's need to the Christian owners of the company to see if they would like to "help"... so we are praying to that end.
After dropping Jess off, we hurried back to the Shire to one of the Bible Study and fellowship home groups run by our church. They had asked us to come and input on one of our favorite topics. We had decided to "tagteam" through the newly revised CCC booklet on how to be filled with and walk in the Spirit. As usual it proved to be a timely topic and stimulated a good and healthy discussion.
Almost collapsed on arrival home 15 hours after leaving. (This is definitely NOT a typical day for me so I don't want to give the wrong impression. In fact, it was so unusual that I even decided to take the time to write about it for a change.)
The funny thing is that after a very early "wake up yesterday" and a relatively late bedtime, my mind (if not my eyes) popped open at 6:00 am this morning with some great ideas that eventually motivated me to roll out of the sack at 6:30 to make some journal entries before I forgot everything I believe the Lord was trying to say to me!
But that's another story for another day.
Kings play Townsville tonight in Sydney marking (Coach) Brian Goorjian's 600th Professional Game. (His winning percentage over a 19-year NBL career is a stunning 69.8 per cent from a 417-181 win/loss record to go with his five championships from 10 grand finals.) I have written a special "blessing" for him which I intend to give him tonight. My prayer is that it will enrich him even more at this special milestone of his life and career.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Up close with CJ Bruton
It has been my privilege this year (in my fourth season as the Kings team chaplain) to lead a weekly "team" Bible Study with everyone invited (but most frequently attended by Jason and CJ). We had another player join us this week to see what it was like...I guess the real test of the value of the study to him is whether or not he comes again. He seemed to benefit from it...and enjoy it!
Occasionally Jason's wife is able to join us and she is a very welcome addition...a beauty amongst the beasts! CJ's wife is interested...and may join us when work allows. We are studying the book of Galations.
Anyhow, I am very proud of CJ this week. We have been talking and praying about using sports achievement as a platform for sharing the Good News of Jesus love and forgiveness with others. I shared earlier in this blog (in March, 2005) about Jason's journey with Jesus story in an article in the Sydney Morning Herald (article still available at the Kings Website listed below...in the News and Events Tab--Media Release 145--written March 18, 2005).
This week the King's official website did a feature on CJ and actually printed at least some of what CJ had said about his faith.
The article appears on the Kings website ( www.sydneykings.com.au) entitled "CJ Bruton – The Son Also Rises" (which title is not in reference to "the other risen Son"...but to the fact that CJ's Dad was also a Hall of Fame Basketball Player in Australia). I have also copied the good bits (from my perspective) right here...
(CJ had an extremely attractive offer (financially) to play in Russia this year...) "However, he had already signed the NBL Proposed Player Payments form, which in effect tied him to the Kings for the next three seasons. Now, like (another player's name omitted), who signed the same form yet bolted for Europe once the Eurodollars were waved under his nose, Bruton could have dug his heels in and held out – especially once officials decided that the PPP form didn’t constitute a contract in their eyes.
But that wouldn’t have been the right or honourable thing to do, and when the Kings advised CJ they would hold him to the so-called ‘Heads of Agreement’, he accepted the decision. Yet, he admits it has been difficult at times.
“It’s been up and down, and there are days where it’s still a struggle”, he says. “But again, my family rallied around me, and it was my strong belief in the Lord that got me through it, that I realised that my path will be taken care of no matter what happens, that down the track something good would come of this”.
(CJ's)...been a part of some great teams and not so great, but the things that have characterised his outstanding nine-year career in the league are consistency and productivity. In Sydney, he’s become a leader of men, someone everyone looks up to as an example of what dedication and hard work can do.
CJ is a committed Christian, and his family is incredibly important to him, especially his wife Jessica. He can’t say enough of what she means to him, both on and off the floor.
“She’s like the backbone”, he says. “She has such a great heart, and she’s been the one who really has brought both my family and her family together. She’s always keeping me on the right path, reminding me that the Lord has given me this opportunity. I rely on my family so much to get me through the tough moments and also be there to cherish the good times”.
Blessings "on ya" CJ!!!
CJ and Jason have both been accepted on our national team squad (the Boomers) for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in March, 2006. I'm praying that they will continue to walk closely to the Lord...and find opportunity to "talk the walk" whenever possible. That they will be strategic infuencers of our culture for our Lord Jesus.
Occasionally Jason's wife is able to join us and she is a very welcome addition...a beauty amongst the beasts! CJ's wife is interested...and may join us when work allows. We are studying the book of Galations.
Anyhow, I am very proud of CJ this week. We have been talking and praying about using sports achievement as a platform for sharing the Good News of Jesus love and forgiveness with others. I shared earlier in this blog (in March, 2005) about Jason's journey with Jesus story in an article in the Sydney Morning Herald (article still available at the Kings Website listed below...in the News and Events Tab--Media Release 145--written March 18, 2005).
This week the King's official website did a feature on CJ and actually printed at least some of what CJ had said about his faith.
The article appears on the Kings website ( www.sydneykings.com.au) entitled "CJ Bruton – The Son Also Rises" (which title is not in reference to "the other risen Son"...but to the fact that CJ's Dad was also a Hall of Fame Basketball Player in Australia). I have also copied the good bits (from my perspective) right here...
(CJ had an extremely attractive offer (financially) to play in Russia this year...) "However, he had already signed the NBL Proposed Player Payments form, which in effect tied him to the Kings for the next three seasons. Now, like (another player's name omitted), who signed the same form yet bolted for Europe once the Eurodollars were waved under his nose, Bruton could have dug his heels in and held out – especially once officials decided that the PPP form didn’t constitute a contract in their eyes.
But that wouldn’t have been the right or honourable thing to do, and when the Kings advised CJ they would hold him to the so-called ‘Heads of Agreement’, he accepted the decision. Yet, he admits it has been difficult at times.
“It’s been up and down, and there are days where it’s still a struggle”, he says. “But again, my family rallied around me, and it was my strong belief in the Lord that got me through it, that I realised that my path will be taken care of no matter what happens, that down the track something good would come of this”.
(CJ's)...been a part of some great teams and not so great, but the things that have characterised his outstanding nine-year career in the league are consistency and productivity. In Sydney, he’s become a leader of men, someone everyone looks up to as an example of what dedication and hard work can do.
CJ is a committed Christian, and his family is incredibly important to him, especially his wife Jessica. He can’t say enough of what she means to him, both on and off the floor.
“She’s like the backbone”, he says. “She has such a great heart, and she’s been the one who really has brought both my family and her family together. She’s always keeping me on the right path, reminding me that the Lord has given me this opportunity. I rely on my family so much to get me through the tough moments and also be there to cherish the good times”.
Blessings "on ya" CJ!!!
CJ and Jason have both been accepted on our national team squad (the Boomers) for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in March, 2006. I'm praying that they will continue to walk closely to the Lord...and find opportunity to "talk the walk" whenever possible. That they will be strategic infuencers of our culture for our Lord Jesus.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Kings and Servants
The Sydney Kings are looking quite strong again in the early season...I love the bottomless bench. In the last game against the Tigers (one of the top teams in the competition) we actually gained points in the spread when our "bench" players were on court. It would be interesting to see what would happen if we actually started the bench! I think they would hold their own. What a great bunch of guys to work with.
Several of us are meeting now weekly (after a team recovery session) to study the Bible in depth. We have started on the book of Galations and enjoying it so much that all three of us have been encouraging other team mates to join in with us. A few nibbles but no bites yet.
It has been fun to have the wife of one of the players join us...and another promising to come along!
With my other job, I am in Wollongong with over 120 other Campus Crusade for Christ workers (in conference) talking about the mandate for Jesus' followers to "multiply movements everywhere so that everyone knows someone who truly follows Christ". What a privilege to be with such a high calibre of servants.
Today we honoured the first graduating cycle of the 54:2 Leadership Development process by having them share what they have been learning with the rest of the workers there. The second cycle of the process will begin within the next couple of days.
Several of us are meeting now weekly (after a team recovery session) to study the Bible in depth. We have started on the book of Galations and enjoying it so much that all three of us have been encouraging other team mates to join in with us. A few nibbles but no bites yet.
It has been fun to have the wife of one of the players join us...and another promising to come along!
With my other job, I am in Wollongong with over 120 other Campus Crusade for Christ workers (in conference) talking about the mandate for Jesus' followers to "multiply movements everywhere so that everyone knows someone who truly follows Christ". What a privilege to be with such a high calibre of servants.
Today we honoured the first graduating cycle of the 54:2 Leadership Development process by having them share what they have been learning with the rest of the workers there. The second cycle of the process will begin within the next couple of days.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Return of a King
Been so caught up in Dante that I have been neglecting other entries at this primary sight.
So a bit of catchup...
Arose early (for me) today at about 5:00 to make a traffic free run to the airport to greet one of our Kings imports. He came off the plane in a T-shirt from the States, so it was probably a good thing that I had taken along a medium-warmth AIA jacket for him to borrow (just in case).
It is good to have him back. He made a huge contribution last year, and we will need him as we work at an unbelieveable fourth national championship in a row.
Half the team is off to the Boomers camp in Melbourne...it looks like we will have a bottomless bench this year.
So a bit of catchup...
Arose early (for me) today at about 5:00 to make a traffic free run to the airport to greet one of our Kings imports. He came off the plane in a T-shirt from the States, so it was probably a good thing that I had taken along a medium-warmth AIA jacket for him to borrow (just in case).
It is good to have him back. He made a huge contribution last year, and we will need him as we work at an unbelieveable fourth national championship in a row.
Half the team is off to the Boomers camp in Melbourne...it looks like we will have a bottomless bench this year.
Friday, July 08, 2005
Dante Musings moving to new blogsite
I'm having so much fun with Dante right now that I have decided to move my musings to a new blog entitled "Scratching at Dante". Link here or in the column on the left.
http://dantescratchings.blogspot.com
http://dantescratchings.blogspot.com
Dante: Inferno--Canto Two
Thought...
The encouragement of a godly perspective can empower us to renew our resolve and enter the steep and savage path.
The encouragement of a godly perspective can empower us to renew our resolve and enter the steep and savage path.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Dante: Inferno--Canto One
Thought...
When facing insatiable beasts of mighty power and cunning it might behove me "to take another road".
When facing insatiable beasts of mighty power and cunning it might behove me "to take another road".
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Maximsing in Macarthur
I have finally finished all the requirements for certification as a Life Coach with Future Achievement Australia!
And just in time...nothing like an opportunity to speed you along toward a goal.
Jan and I have been asked to serve as FAA Coaches to "train and support" volunteer coaches (who will in turn coach hand-selected "choice" young leaders in the Macarthur/Campbelltown area of Sydney). The government-assisted programme is entitled "Maximising Potential in Macarthur". We have already had our first intensive training with 50 volunteer coaches... and started meeting with them individually for the first of four person coaching sessions last Wednesday.
It is a privilege to provide some positive input into these young lives...and we are benefiting from their enthusiasm as they learn new ways of interacting with others while journeying toward personal development. The coaches are an interesting mix of educators (both high school and uni level), social workers, and community and church youth leaders. The mix has generated some great interaction!
And just in time...nothing like an opportunity to speed you along toward a goal.
Jan and I have been asked to serve as FAA Coaches to "train and support" volunteer coaches (who will in turn coach hand-selected "choice" young leaders in the Macarthur/Campbelltown area of Sydney). The government-assisted programme is entitled "Maximising Potential in Macarthur". We have already had our first intensive training with 50 volunteer coaches... and started meeting with them individually for the first of four person coaching sessions last Wednesday.
It is a privilege to provide some positive input into these young lives...and we are benefiting from their enthusiasm as they learn new ways of interacting with others while journeying toward personal development. The coaches are an interesting mix of educators (both high school and uni level), social workers, and community and church youth leaders. The mix has generated some great interaction!
Monday, June 13, 2005
Quick Trip to Perth
I made a trip to Perth last weekend on AIA business. Watched four basketball games (Lakeside/AIA teams won all four!) and met with two potential chaplains for the new rugby union Western Force team to be based in Perth. Hooked up with one of our Life Saving Chaplaincy chaplains there in WA and also had lunch with a Motor Racing Chaplain from the States on his way to a big race in China. Also had a chance to speak briefly to the men's State Basketball League team after one of the games--sharing my conversion story--which took place so long ago now that I sometimes have trouble remembering it! Got into a wild card game on Sunday night with about 13 others hanging around the Toby's place. Busy weekend, but very enjoyable.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Congratulations to the Waratahs
What a tremendous season for the NSW Waratahs...and an exciting Grand Final in Christchurch.
I think if we would have had another 10 minutes we might have won. The true champions were out there playing on the field when it seemed certain they would lose. I would not have been any prouder of them if they had won!
I am proud to know each of these guys personally and they are a fine group of men as well as a championship team. I will sincerely miss the men who are moving on but wish them God's richest blessing and pray for them (as I tell them frequently) that God would use their rugby career and the lessons they learn on and off the field to move them closer and closer into a relationship with the One who loves them--whether they win or lose.
I think if we would have had another 10 minutes we might have won. The true champions were out there playing on the field when it seemed certain they would lose. I would not have been any prouder of them if they had won!
I am proud to know each of these guys personally and they are a fine group of men as well as a championship team. I will sincerely miss the men who are moving on but wish them God's richest blessing and pray for them (as I tell them frequently) that God would use their rugby career and the lessons they learn on and off the field to move them closer and closer into a relationship with the One who loves them--whether they win or lose.
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Some Light from the Old Book
Enjoyed this reminder from Proverbs this AM...
"My son, pay attention to what I say;listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight,keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart,for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth;keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead,fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left;keep your foot from evil.
My son, pay attention to my wisdom,listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge." Prov 4:20-5:2 (NIV)
"My son, pay attention to what I say;listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight,keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart,for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth;keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead,fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left;keep your foot from evil.
My son, pay attention to my wisdom,listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge." Prov 4:20-5:2 (NIV)
A lesser known translation that I appreciate says...
"Keep my words deep within your heart...for they are the secret to life for those who know them. They bring health to the whole body...Keep your eyes focused on what is right. Be careful what you do...Be careful to use good sense." The Everyday Bible
Or even just what my heart says in response...
"I need to guard my heart and my eyes...and do what is right."
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Compassion Challenge
Two Sundays ago, one of our pastors asked those in the congregation to accept a Compassion Challenge and make small step efforts influencing those around us in the everyday world by being open and up front about our faith...even something as simple as praying before a meal at a restaurant. I accepted the challenge and gave him my email address as accountability.
A couple of days later I received this email from him as a reminder of my commitment...
"I really appreciate your willingness to step forward out of Sundays message. I believe that individuals need to step forward in faith and for our church to see that God will honour our faithfulness to just be obedient to His call. We must live out our faith and relationship with Him in the everyday aspects of life.Please let me know how you go with this challenge. Wether you simply say grace at a restaurant, read your Bible at work or in coffee shop or park, listen to worship music in a car with others in it whatever. I really want to hear your experiences.
Can I encourage you: with a quote from Oswald Sanders: A great deal more failure is the result of an excess of caution than of bold experimentation with new ideas. The frontiers of the kingdom of God were never advanced by men and women of caution! "
*********
So...a couple of days later I sent him these stories that he had requested. (He thought they were encouraging, so I thought I would add them to the blog!)
*********
Subject: Re: Compassion Challenge
1) Read my Bible (instead of my novel) while waiting in a public place for an appointment.
2) Chose a table at a food court with someone already sitting there for a follow-up appointment with a new Christian (rugby player). The older gentleman at the table either heard the entire appointment (on "assurance of salvation")...or he was deaf!
3) Thinking perhaps it would generate more awareness if I were to actually sing a praise song out loud on the train into work (instead of just reading my Bible) but have to admit I decided against it (using the rational that I seek to make the gospel as "winsome" as possible and my off key screeching would probably be counterproductive.)
4) Got in to very brief discussion with a taxi driver about the Lord (and his criticism of "the church") ...which ended quite abruptly when we arrived in record time...but gave him a gospel booklet with a $2 tip. I told him the next time somebody said something negative about Christians I wanted him to remember that there was one time when a Christian gave him a $2 for a $6 fare so it wasn't really true that all Christians want is your money.
A couple of days later I received this email from him as a reminder of my commitment...
"I really appreciate your willingness to step forward out of Sundays message. I believe that individuals need to step forward in faith and for our church to see that God will honour our faithfulness to just be obedient to His call. We must live out our faith and relationship with Him in the everyday aspects of life.Please let me know how you go with this challenge. Wether you simply say grace at a restaurant, read your Bible at work or in coffee shop or park, listen to worship music in a car with others in it whatever. I really want to hear your experiences.
Can I encourage you: with a quote from Oswald Sanders: A great deal more failure is the result of an excess of caution than of bold experimentation with new ideas. The frontiers of the kingdom of God were never advanced by men and women of caution! "
*********
So...a couple of days later I sent him these stories that he had requested. (He thought they were encouraging, so I thought I would add them to the blog!)
*********
Subject: Re: Compassion Challenge
1) Read my Bible (instead of my novel) while waiting in a public place for an appointment.
2) Chose a table at a food court with someone already sitting there for a follow-up appointment with a new Christian (rugby player). The older gentleman at the table either heard the entire appointment (on "assurance of salvation")...or he was deaf!
3) Thinking perhaps it would generate more awareness if I were to actually sing a praise song out loud on the train into work (instead of just reading my Bible) but have to admit I decided against it (using the rational that I seek to make the gospel as "winsome" as possible and my off key screeching would probably be counterproductive.)
4) Got in to very brief discussion with a taxi driver about the Lord (and his criticism of "the church") ...which ended quite abruptly when we arrived in record time...but gave him a gospel booklet with a $2 tip. I told him the next time somebody said something negative about Christians I wanted him to remember that there was one time when a Christian gave him a $2 for a $6 fare so it wasn't really true that all Christians want is your money.
Monday, May 02, 2005
High Flying Thoughts
Couple of thoughts here (from the minds of others) that must have some application for me as a life coach...
"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot."
- Michael Althsuler
My friend asked his father-in-law, a crop-duster, how his day had gone. "It was the worst day of my life," replied the man. "This morning I was up in my plane dusting a field when I nicked a power line and damaged the wing of the plane. When I got back to the office, my boss chewed me out. Then the guy from the FAA chewed me out. On my way home, I stopped off at a bar and was handed a warm beer. So I yelled at the bartender, 'Don't you have any cold beers?' The bartender said, 'Sorry, but we've been out of electricity all day ever since some idiot crop-duster hit a power line down the road.'"
-Essie Conley
"The bad news is time flies. The good news is you're the pilot."
- Michael Althsuler
My friend asked his father-in-law, a crop-duster, how his day had gone. "It was the worst day of my life," replied the man. "This morning I was up in my plane dusting a field when I nicked a power line and damaged the wing of the plane. When I got back to the office, my boss chewed me out. Then the guy from the FAA chewed me out. On my way home, I stopped off at a bar and was handed a warm beer. So I yelled at the bartender, 'Don't you have any cold beers?' The bartender said, 'Sorry, but we've been out of electricity all day ever since some idiot crop-duster hit a power line down the road.'"
-Essie Conley
Friday, April 29, 2005
Thinking Long Term
An interesting thought for the day...
"I have discovered I must think long term. I can accomplish more than I ever dreamed in 10 years, even if my short-term goals go unmet. Learning this lesson allows me to go at a sane pace, rather than frantically trying to do everything now. It also allows me to set realistic goals and deadlines while building something that lasts. A mushroom grows in six days; an oak tree grows in 60 years. Which do you want your ministry to produce?" - Brad Johnson
In my life coaching I have found a very simple suggestion in regard to "balance" has been liberating in regard to my obsessive self-criticism...
Work toward a balance (in the seven primary roles of life) over a week...instead of attempting to maintain balance over a 24 hour period. Balance isn't necessary a balance in real time invested in each of the roles...there doesn't have to be an hour for hour equation for you to achieve at least a modicum of balance. Ten minutes of prayer can accomplish more than ten hours of work!
"I have discovered I must think long term. I can accomplish more than I ever dreamed in 10 years, even if my short-term goals go unmet. Learning this lesson allows me to go at a sane pace, rather than frantically trying to do everything now. It also allows me to set realistic goals and deadlines while building something that lasts. A mushroom grows in six days; an oak tree grows in 60 years. Which do you want your ministry to produce?" - Brad Johnson
In my life coaching I have found a very simple suggestion in regard to "balance" has been liberating in regard to my obsessive self-criticism...
Work toward a balance (in the seven primary roles of life) over a week...instead of attempting to maintain balance over a 24 hour period. Balance isn't necessary a balance in real time invested in each of the roles...there doesn't have to be an hour for hour equation for you to achieve at least a modicum of balance. Ten minutes of prayer can accomplish more than ten hours of work!
Monday, April 25, 2005
Lest we forget!
It's Anzac Day here in Oz! The march down George Street in downtown Sydney has already been going on for over two hours and I think they are about half way though the units. There is a record turnout of spectators I might add. I am always touched to see the children of "missing" soldiers proudly wearing their grandparents service medals and marching in their proper units alongside his or her former mates.
As an American-born quasi-Aussie it would be remiss of me not to "Remember" (and even say a word on behalf of...) the men and women who gave (and risked) their lives to maintain our national identity and freedom.
Before we moved here to Australia, in December of 1974, I had never even heard of the battle of Gallipolli, the Kakoda Track, and the POW camp at Changi (or the Japanese breakout from the Cowra POW camp for that matter)...what a rich history of sacrifice and service. I honour them all.
Especially today, I am remembering with gratitude, the faithful service of "Fighting Mac McKenzie", a Salvation Army chaplain who served with high honour in both Gallipolli and France. His story, now available in print brought tears to eyes of this "hardened" history buff.
Chaplain Major William McKenzie, MC, (1869-1947) was attached to 4th Battalion, AIF, during the 1914-18 war. He was a man of renowned principle and courage...well known and loved by thousands of frontline soldiers because of his fearless service to them. The troops were the first to refer to him as "Fighting Mac" because of his undefeated prowess in the boxing ring, but his "fight" extended to the salvation of thousands under heavy fire. He was awarded the Military Cross for his personal bravery and spirit of sacrificial service. It was said of Fighting Mac by a contemporary that "Chaplain McKenzie made Christ real to thousands of men. Up and down the fire-swept ridges he followed them, carrying food and water, tramping miles for their mail; by night cutting steps over treacherous patches which the boys must travel in the morning, praying with them, helping them to live, supporting them as they died. Burying literally hundreds of brave lads fallen in battle, he spent far into the night in his dim dugout, writing to their relatives." My favorite story was his baptism of hundreds one day at Anzac Cove during an artillery barrage.
So...Fighting Mac...I thank God for you and your faithful testimony of God's love in the very midst of hell on earth. You are a model to me...I remember you!
As an American-born quasi-Aussie it would be remiss of me not to "Remember" (and even say a word on behalf of...) the men and women who gave (and risked) their lives to maintain our national identity and freedom.
Before we moved here to Australia, in December of 1974, I had never even heard of the battle of Gallipolli, the Kakoda Track, and the POW camp at Changi (or the Japanese breakout from the Cowra POW camp for that matter)...what a rich history of sacrifice and service. I honour them all.
Especially today, I am remembering with gratitude, the faithful service of "Fighting Mac McKenzie", a Salvation Army chaplain who served with high honour in both Gallipolli and France. His story, now available in print brought tears to eyes of this "hardened" history buff.
Chaplain Major William McKenzie, MC, (1869-1947) was attached to 4th Battalion, AIF, during the 1914-18 war. He was a man of renowned principle and courage...well known and loved by thousands of frontline soldiers because of his fearless service to them. The troops were the first to refer to him as "Fighting Mac" because of his undefeated prowess in the boxing ring, but his "fight" extended to the salvation of thousands under heavy fire. He was awarded the Military Cross for his personal bravery and spirit of sacrificial service. It was said of Fighting Mac by a contemporary that "Chaplain McKenzie made Christ real to thousands of men. Up and down the fire-swept ridges he followed them, carrying food and water, tramping miles for their mail; by night cutting steps over treacherous patches which the boys must travel in the morning, praying with them, helping them to live, supporting them as they died. Burying literally hundreds of brave lads fallen in battle, he spent far into the night in his dim dugout, writing to their relatives." My favorite story was his baptism of hundreds one day at Anzac Cove during an artillery barrage.
So...Fighting Mac...I thank God for you and your faithful testimony of God's love in the very midst of hell on earth. You are a model to me...I remember you!
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Shift in Scenery
With the Kings finishing up their season (on near impossible high note!) I have found myself with a little more time to pursue my role with the NSW Waratahs...who are also having a great year. A couple of their players however have been in a bit of strife so I am assuming that it doesn't hurt to be "around" and offering support as requested. Did get out to see one young contract player in hospital and had a good visit with him. Also visiting a couple of serious injury players from lower grades so the car almost knows the way to the hospital on its' own.
Had a great opportunity to share my faith with young (20 something) player the other day after a hospital visit. A friend in rugby suggested he ring me and when he did I just happened to be only two train stations from him with about a half-hour before lunch hour...so within an hour of his call we were sitting down having a chat. The words he used to explain his difficult situation were..."morals", "guilt", and "forgiveness". I suggested those sounded like "spiritual issues" to me and would he be willing to explore some spiritual answers instead of social or psychological (which he had found inadequate so far).
When he readily agreed, we had a great conversation about how to enter into a personal relationship with God. After checking to make sure that he really understood the "theory" and then the "mechanics" (of HOW to become a Christian)...I suggested the next question he needed to answer was "when" do you want to do this. After suggesting two options (give it some time and thought in order to answer any more questions...or jump in right now), he said "I want to do that right now".
So he did!
Had a great opportunity to share my faith with young (20 something) player the other day after a hospital visit. A friend in rugby suggested he ring me and when he did I just happened to be only two train stations from him with about a half-hour before lunch hour...so within an hour of his call we were sitting down having a chat. The words he used to explain his difficult situation were..."morals", "guilt", and "forgiveness". I suggested those sounded like "spiritual issues" to me and would he be willing to explore some spiritual answers instead of social or psychological (which he had found inadequate so far).
When he readily agreed, we had a great conversation about how to enter into a personal relationship with God. After checking to make sure that he really understood the "theory" and then the "mechanics" (of HOW to become a Christian)...I suggested the next question he needed to answer was "when" do you want to do this. After suggesting two options (give it some time and thought in order to answer any more questions...or jump in right now), he said "I want to do that right now".
So he did!
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
3-peat Now History
Well...God bless 'em...the Kings did it...and in style! First ever NBL 3-peat (three national championships in as many years) and by winning the first two games of the best two out of three against Brisbane in semi-finals...and the first three games in the best three out of five game series in the Grand Final...frst game won by 23 points...second game (in Wollongong) by 25 points...third (and final game) by 27 points.
So proud of these young men. It wasn't as easy as it might sound. The team did not have the same star players that they won the second championship with last year. There were several major injuries during the season and the team didn't really gel as a force until the semi-final round. They lost the penulitmate game of the regular season to Wollonong by over 20 points.
(21 February posting).
In all of the excitement I am probably more thankful however for the opportunity the win will bring for others to hear about the abundant and positive life that Jesus offers the world--even professional basketball players!
For several months now Jason and I have been praying about media opportunities where he could "share his faith" in Christ with others without seeming to be opportunistic or pushy. We had some preliminary discussions on how to answer media questions then prayed for reporteres to ask some appropriate questions. Little did we realize the chance would come one day before the Grand Final when Jason was interviewed by the Sydney Morning Herald. The entire story was "reprinted" on the Sydney Kings website at www.sydneykings.com.au (Title: "Spiritual Leader Led by King of Kings")
Standing on the court in the midst of celebrations after the winning game (and we had to shout in each other's ears to hear) we both agreed that Jason's "supernatural" game of 38 points and 12 rebounds was a matter of God's honouring his earlier public testimony of faith. So proud of him.
So proud of these young men. It wasn't as easy as it might sound. The team did not have the same star players that they won the second championship with last year. There were several major injuries during the season and the team didn't really gel as a force until the semi-final round. They lost the penulitmate game of the regular season to Wollonong by over 20 points.
(21 February posting).
In all of the excitement I am probably more thankful however for the opportunity the win will bring for others to hear about the abundant and positive life that Jesus offers the world--even professional basketball players!
For several months now Jason and I have been praying about media opportunities where he could "share his faith" in Christ with others without seeming to be opportunistic or pushy. We had some preliminary discussions on how to answer media questions then prayed for reporteres to ask some appropriate questions. Little did we realize the chance would come one day before the Grand Final when Jason was interviewed by the Sydney Morning Herald. The entire story was "reprinted" on the Sydney Kings website at www.sydneykings.com.au (Title: "Spiritual Leader Led by King of Kings")
Standing on the court in the midst of celebrations after the winning game (and we had to shout in each other's ears to hear) we both agreed that Jason's "supernatural" game of 38 points and 12 rebounds was a matter of God's honouring his earlier public testimony of faith. So proud of him.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Preparing for Game Three
I've been to the Kings training sessions twice this week and I can assure you that they have not let up in the least. In fact, I can't remember being to sessions before that have had such sustained intensity. Things are looking good right now with a recovery day today (Thursday) and (possibly) the final training of the year on Friday AM...with the game on Saturday--looks to be a sell-out (first one of the year).
I had a short talk with Jason yesterday about his uni classes...and prayed with one of the guys (at the side of the court) regarding his injury. We're simply asking that the Lord will give him what it takes to get through the championships so he can recover in off season. Also talked with Wheels about what the Lord was saying to me in regard to my ministry role (he brought it up!). I had a great time over lunch with one of the other players talking about how he could know God personally. It was a very relaxed question and answer time while sharing stories from our lives with each other. He said he was beginning to understand a lot better how Christianity was more about a personal relationship with God than it was a commitment to doing things like reading the Bible and going to church.
What a privilege for me to have this time to input with these young men.
Go the Kings!
I had a short talk with Jason yesterday about his uni classes...and prayed with one of the guys (at the side of the court) regarding his injury. We're simply asking that the Lord will give him what it takes to get through the championships so he can recover in off season. Also talked with Wheels about what the Lord was saying to me in regard to my ministry role (he brought it up!). I had a great time over lunch with one of the other players talking about how he could know God personally. It was a very relaxed question and answer time while sharing stories from our lives with each other. He said he was beginning to understand a lot better how Christianity was more about a personal relationship with God than it was a commitment to doing things like reading the Bible and going to church.
What a privilege for me to have this time to input with these young men.
Go the Kings!
Monday, March 14, 2005
Grand Final--Second Win to Kings
Well, only one to go!
The Kings ventured boldly into the heart of the Hawks territory--at the SandPit--Sunday avo.
Despite the overwhelming crowd support for the hometown team, the Kings just seemed to pick up where they left off last Friday. After taking their initial jump into the lead they were able to maintain momentum by the final buzzer to win by 25 points.
Hard to single out individual effort, as each one (including the bench) made a significant contribution...and the entire bench played some minutes.
Behind the scenes, Jason did some more good work on recurring development project. CJ did well inspite of his injury (evidently Goorj told him he was going to have to play through the pain until this was over). Had a photographer from World Wide Challenge (US-based Christian publication) who arranged a press pass and came in after the game to get some shots of the team. He is working on a story about how Jesus changes lives.
Due to my ill-timed travel arrangements, I arrived late to the pre-game coaches talk and our usual time for prayer with those who want to pray. Jason grabbed one of the guys before the pep talk and they had a short prayer together. Encouraging for me to see this taking place even when I'm not there!
The "boys" were on a high as the left the Sand Pit (and rightly so!). It will take a huge effort for Wollongong to win all three of the next three games (two of them in Sydney)...and the Kings would prefer to win the final game at home (for the celebration of course)...so the season could wind up by Saturday night at the Entertainment Centre.
The Kings ventured boldly into the heart of the Hawks territory--at the SandPit--Sunday avo.
Despite the overwhelming crowd support for the hometown team, the Kings just seemed to pick up where they left off last Friday. After taking their initial jump into the lead they were able to maintain momentum by the final buzzer to win by 25 points.
Hard to single out individual effort, as each one (including the bench) made a significant contribution...and the entire bench played some minutes.
Behind the scenes, Jason did some more good work on recurring development project. CJ did well inspite of his injury (evidently Goorj told him he was going to have to play through the pain until this was over). Had a photographer from World Wide Challenge (US-based Christian publication) who arranged a press pass and came in after the game to get some shots of the team. He is working on a story about how Jesus changes lives.
Due to my ill-timed travel arrangements, I arrived late to the pre-game coaches talk and our usual time for prayer with those who want to pray. Jason grabbed one of the guys before the pep talk and they had a short prayer together. Encouraging for me to see this taking place even when I'm not there!
The "boys" were on a high as the left the Sand Pit (and rightly so!). It will take a huge effort for Wollongong to win all three of the next three games (two of them in Sydney)...and the Kings would prefer to win the final game at home (for the celebration of course)...so the season could wind up by Saturday night at the Entertainment Centre.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Grand Finals--First Win to Kings
What a huge game!
After losing two of our three encounters with the Hawks in regular season...and the most recent one was a substantial loss...it was really important for the Kings to win the first game of the Grand Final Series last night. It would help even more if they could win big time...
...and they did!
Following Jason's "sterling leadership" (quoting one of the King's support staff) the Kings showed a team to the Hawks that was up a gear (or two) from the last game. We have peaked at the perfect time with a 23 point win in the first game.
More importantly to me is the personal growth and development of the players as men...
...For the three players and two support staff that join in our pre-game prayer it is encouraging to hear them petition the Lord for His helping them to do their best.
...For the guys on the team that are still involved in a "pre-Jesus" aspect of their spiritual journey, it is encouraging to see them showing more and more interest (some even reading Bibles), and expressing appreciation for intercessory prayer in regard to their injuries.
...For Jason in particular (who has expressed his willingness for me to use his name "publically") I have been truly blessed to see God working a deep work in his life in regard to practical outworkings of his faith on court. He is having significant victory in regard to issues that frequently sideline Christian competitors. On the way home last night, he shared three specific instances in the game where he intentionally turned his thoughts (and intended actions) over the Lord and chose to approach the problem differently. Lest this be perceived by some as stiffling his game...he scored twice as many points as any of the Hawks players.
In my opinion, even if they would have lost the game these guys are winners...big time champions!
So on to the Second Game in Wollongong on Sunday avo. It will be tough there!
I'm praying for CJ Bruton (especially) as he is dealing with ongoing injury that could influence his game.
After losing two of our three encounters with the Hawks in regular season...and the most recent one was a substantial loss...it was really important for the Kings to win the first game of the Grand Final Series last night. It would help even more if they could win big time...
...and they did!
Following Jason's "sterling leadership" (quoting one of the King's support staff) the Kings showed a team to the Hawks that was up a gear (or two) from the last game. We have peaked at the perfect time with a 23 point win in the first game.
More importantly to me is the personal growth and development of the players as men...
...For the three players and two support staff that join in our pre-game prayer it is encouraging to hear them petition the Lord for His helping them to do their best.
...For the guys on the team that are still involved in a "pre-Jesus" aspect of their spiritual journey, it is encouraging to see them showing more and more interest (some even reading Bibles), and expressing appreciation for intercessory prayer in regard to their injuries.
...For Jason in particular (who has expressed his willingness for me to use his name "publically") I have been truly blessed to see God working a deep work in his life in regard to practical outworkings of his faith on court. He is having significant victory in regard to issues that frequently sideline Christian competitors. On the way home last night, he shared three specific instances in the game where he intentionally turned his thoughts (and intended actions) over the Lord and chose to approach the problem differently. Lest this be perceived by some as stiffling his game...he scored twice as many points as any of the Hawks players.
In my opinion, even if they would have lost the game these guys are winners...big time champions!
So on to the Second Game in Wollongong on Sunday avo. It will be tough there!
I'm praying for CJ Bruton (especially) as he is dealing with ongoing injury that could influence his game.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Reminders from a great coach
I recently ran acoss this quote from one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time. Thinking about sharing it with those players who come along to our pre-game prayer meeting before the first game of the Grand Final Series against Wollongong on Friday night.
One of the building blocks in Coach John Wooden's pyramid of success is competitive greatness. Coach Wooden states, "We don't have to be superstars or win championships to reach competitive greatness. All we have to do is learn to rise to every occasion, give our best effort and make those around us better as we do it. It's not about winning. It's about learning to give all we have to give."
Go the Kings!!!
One of the building blocks in Coach John Wooden's pyramid of success is competitive greatness. Coach Wooden states, "We don't have to be superstars or win championships to reach competitive greatness. All we have to do is learn to rise to every occasion, give our best effort and make those around us better as we do it. It's not about winning. It's about learning to give all we have to give."
Go the Kings!!!
Monday, March 07, 2005
Down to Kings and Hawks
Well, it's "moneytime" in the NBL.
Down to the Kings vs the Hawks for the best three of five in the 2005 Grand Final Series.
With family commitments I didn't see the Kings/Brisbane Game 2. I was concerned that some of the Bullets might see themselves as self-appointed spoilers of the Kings success by laying on the odd intentional career-ending cheap shot. (What a cynic I am becoming?)
Although CJ evidently had a tough night physically, Jason assures me that it was nothing really unusual in the injury and he will be playing in the finals starting on Friday.
Hope to get down to see the boys tomorrow at training but also need to do some development with the ARU in North Sydney so might find it kinda hurried. One of the Kings is showing increased interest in the Bible now that he has started to read a modern translation. Hoping we have some time to chat before it's "all over" (for this year at least...on or before 23rd March).
Down to the Kings vs the Hawks for the best three of five in the 2005 Grand Final Series.
With family commitments I didn't see the Kings/Brisbane Game 2. I was concerned that some of the Bullets might see themselves as self-appointed spoilers of the Kings success by laying on the odd intentional career-ending cheap shot. (What a cynic I am becoming?)
Although CJ evidently had a tough night physically, Jason assures me that it was nothing really unusual in the injury and he will be playing in the finals starting on Friday.
Hope to get down to see the boys tomorrow at training but also need to do some development with the ARU in North Sydney so might find it kinda hurried. One of the Kings is showing increased interest in the Bible now that he has started to read a modern translation. Hoping we have some time to chat before it's "all over" (for this year at least...on or before 23rd March).
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Kings into Grand Final
For the third time in as many years the Sydney Kings are into the Grand Final NBL Championship. A "3-peat" would make basketball history in Australia.
I haven't talked to any of the players yet but couldn't go to bed last night until I checked the internet for the results of the second game against Brisbane in the playoffs...after finding that they had won (in spite of Brisbane's home court advantage) I couldn't go to sleep!
The news report said several referee calls were questioned by the home crowd but it was still a Kings "W" and now we just have to wait to see if we play Townville or Wollongong in the Grand Final (I would tip Wollongong).
I haven't talked to any of the players yet but couldn't go to bed last night until I checked the internet for the results of the second game against Brisbane in the playoffs...after finding that they had won (in spite of Brisbane's home court advantage) I couldn't go to sleep!
The news report said several referee calls were questioned by the home crowd but it was still a Kings "W" and now we just have to wait to see if we play Townville or Wollongong in the Grand Final (I would tip Wollongong).
Friday, March 04, 2005
Back to Basketball
I recently suffered through a 10 day withdrawal (from "hoops rush").
Since the Kings won their third minor premiership in a row, they didn't have to compete in the first round of sudden death playoffs in the NBL. The thinking in the dressing room was that the rest could be both positive and negative. Rest can help you prepare physically for a game, but the "do or die" playoff games can hone a hungry team and help them gain momentum.
So the game plan in the first of our possible three games against Brisbane was to get ahead and hang on...slowing momentum by good defense. Which is essentially what happened last Tuesday night. The boys came out firing and got the first points on the board and never looked back. At one point it looked like we could possibly win by 40 points. As it turned out, it was only 34.
Now the concern is that Brisbane, playing tonight to keep their chances alive for at least one more game in the season (and to gain back a little "pride") will be hard to beat on their home court. Should be a good one!
As always, I'm praying that every player will play his best, be protected from injury, and will (regardless of the outcome) find the experience of the game bringing him closer and closer to the Lord.
Since the Kings won their third minor premiership in a row, they didn't have to compete in the first round of sudden death playoffs in the NBL. The thinking in the dressing room was that the rest could be both positive and negative. Rest can help you prepare physically for a game, but the "do or die" playoff games can hone a hungry team and help them gain momentum.
So the game plan in the first of our possible three games against Brisbane was to get ahead and hang on...slowing momentum by good defense. Which is essentially what happened last Tuesday night. The boys came out firing and got the first points on the board and never looked back. At one point it looked like we could possibly win by 40 points. As it turned out, it was only 34.
Now the concern is that Brisbane, playing tonight to keep their chances alive for at least one more game in the season (and to gain back a little "pride") will be hard to beat on their home court. Should be a good one!
As always, I'm praying that every player will play his best, be protected from injury, and will (regardless of the outcome) find the experience of the game bringing him closer and closer to the Lord.
Monday, February 28, 2005
Good Friends and Good Memories
Jan and I traveled across town on Saturday for a bbq with several friends that we have known for thirty years. Actually it was a mini-reunion of three old friends and their spouses (spice?).
Great time catching up and seeing how the Lord is working in our lives. He is good! One couple are returned missionaries, one a Bible teacher at Moore College, and the other is a prayer warrior deep in the heart of the commercial world--reaching her business world with the Good News. (And we were there too.) All of us have been through some hard times over the years but (as one of my favorite gospel blue grass song goes) "we're still here"...because of His great grace and faithfulness.
Everyone gets old (and dare I say it...eventually dies). Mortality rate in Australia in 2004 was still at 100%. But I can't begin to imagine how those who don't know Christ personally deal with the relentless march towards "that day". I can only keep on because of the promise of joy set before me. Being with him (there) becomes more and more desirable...so that it eventually outweighs wanting to stay here.
Great time catching up and seeing how the Lord is working in our lives. He is good! One couple are returned missionaries, one a Bible teacher at Moore College, and the other is a prayer warrior deep in the heart of the commercial world--reaching her business world with the Good News. (And we were there too.) All of us have been through some hard times over the years but (as one of my favorite gospel blue grass song goes) "we're still here"...because of His great grace and faithfulness.
Everyone gets old (and dare I say it...eventually dies). Mortality rate in Australia in 2004 was still at 100%. But I can't begin to imagine how those who don't know Christ personally deal with the relentless march towards "that day". I can only keep on because of the promise of joy set before me. Being with him (there) becomes more and more desirable...so that it eventually outweighs wanting to stay here.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
A Big Perspective
On the following Monday, my "deep" thoughts on winning and losing at basketball games received a severe reality bite when I attended the funeral of the 19 month old son of one of our missionaries. Owen didn't wake up from a nap a couple of weeks ago. The family returned to Australia from the field to support their extended family and to bury little Owen in the family plot in country New South Wales.
The pastor (a friend of the parents) shared how this was serious business. If Owen's death didn't cause those present to do a check on their own mortality and need to get things right with God...what would it take? Both father (eulogy) and mother (testimony) shared how much Owen meant to them and thanked God for loaning him to them for even such a short time. His mother shared how grateful they were for his presence even if it meant great hurt and sorrow...and that the former far outweighed the latter.
Now talk about "perspective" when it comes to "losing". Kinda puts basketball a little lower on the ladder of priorities.
The pastor (a friend of the parents) shared how this was serious business. If Owen's death didn't cause those present to do a check on their own mortality and need to get things right with God...what would it take? Both father (eulogy) and mother (testimony) shared how much Owen meant to them and thanked God for loaning him to them for even such a short time. His mother shared how grateful they were for his presence even if it meant great hurt and sorrow...and that the former far outweighed the latter.
Now talk about "perspective" when it comes to "losing". Kinda puts basketball a little lower on the ladder of priorities.
Monday, February 21, 2005
A Little Perspective
On Friday night I travelled down to Wollongong to be with the Kings for their last regular season game with the Hawks (and penultimate game of the season). I was feeling pretty good about the game when I sat down and pretty bad when I went into the dressing room after the game. Thought: Losing a game is hard.
On Saturday I chose to spend the evening with my wife. I was feeling pretty apprehensive about the Kings final game of the season when I laid down (without checking the internet for the boxscore)...and pretty good when I read early the next morning that we had won the game against West Sydney...and secured the third straight minor premiership in three years.
Thought: Winning is a lot easier to deal with.
Third Thought: Probably not a good idea for me to bet on how I feel!
On Saturday I chose to spend the evening with my wife. I was feeling pretty apprehensive about the Kings final game of the season when I laid down (without checking the internet for the boxscore)...and pretty good when I read early the next morning that we had won the game against West Sydney...and secured the third straight minor premiership in three years.
Thought: Winning is a lot easier to deal with.
Third Thought: Probably not a good idea for me to bet on how I feel!
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
UK Billy's Visit
I invested a very enjoyable afternoon on Monday with a sports chaplain from the UK who is traveling on a grant from a secular trust to research the value of chaplaincy to sporting clubs.
I think it's great that there is such a developing interest in the spiritual side of a player's life.
Anyhow, thanks for the time together Billy! We shared a long talk at Starbucks...and a longer walk around the Opera House and Rocks area, visited a couple of Rugby Bars--just to pay "homage" of course--stopped by Krispy Kreme (doughnuts) for a sugar fix and strolled through Darling Harbour. Ended a most encouraging avo with some prayer and promises of keeping the network working.
I think it's great that there is such a developing interest in the spiritual side of a player's life.
Anyhow, thanks for the time together Billy! We shared a long talk at Starbucks...and a longer walk around the Opera House and Rocks area, visited a couple of Rugby Bars--just to pay "homage" of course--stopped by Krispy Kreme (doughnuts) for a sugar fix and strolled through Darling Harbour. Ended a most encouraging avo with some prayer and promises of keeping the network working.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
After Effects of Singapore
I forgot to mention in my former Road Trip "ramblings" that we were invited to the Australian High Commission for a function on Australia Day while we were in Singapore. I had so much fun chatting with a number of different guests that I hardly ate any of the beautiful finger food provided in great abundance.
I met a couple of US Coast Guard officers who were on permanent duty assignment in Singapore. While the three of us were talking together with a Singaporean "socialite", she asked what my role was on the team. When I told her I was the chaplain she almost choked on her drink. Her first audible reply was "I didnt know basketball was that dangerous! Have you had to deal with many deaths?" As I went on to explain how more and more professional sports were seeing the benefit of someone who could help the athletes in their spiritual quests (and thus enhance their lives...and possibly even their "game"), one of the Coast Guard officers kept nodding his head in agreement. Found out later his father was a long serving chaplain in the US Navy.
Just before leaving I started chatting with a Singaporean government official and we really seemed to hit it off, but we got the call for the players to return to the bus before I could shift the conversation to spiritual matters. I told my new friend that I wasn't really sure about the proper protocol at the High Commission in regard to exchanging information, but would he "be offended" if I were to give him a small booklet that might help him on his spiritual journey. He was very gracious in receiving the "Knowing God Personally" booklet with profuse thanks and we said a quick "goodbye".
Several days later I received an email from my friend saying..."thanks very much for the booklet on "Knowing God Personally". I found it very enriching and helpful."
To which I replied with (a little bit longer note) saying...
"What a pleasant surprise the receive your email today. I have great
memories of the function and the Australian High Commission last
Australia Day...and I especially enjoyed meeting you.
The famous historian Arnold Toynbee once said, "Most people haven't
really rejected the person of Jesus. They have pieced together a straw
man, put a sign saying 'Jesus' around it's neck, then proceeded to tear
it apart and finally said, 'This man has no relevance to me.'" And I
would concur, rightly so...our misconceptions about the person of Christ
usually don't have much relevance. The tragedy is that (rather than
explore the authentic message about Christ from the New Testament
historical documents) we simply "stop" (or postpone) our investigation
after we have "dismantled" the counterfeits.
Anyhow (friend), that's why I like to suggest via the "Knowing God
Personally" booklet, that the starting point of a successful spiritual
journey with Jesus is in actually "meeting him". The booklet explains
that rather simple (almost too simple?) process in the prayer of
invitation on page 13. Millions of people around the world...regardless
of gender, race, or nationality (and even regardless of religious
background) have found the common denominator in their walk with God is
a heartfelt prayer similar to the one here...where a person simply asks
Jesus to come into their lives.
He delights in responding to this invitation...and enters into a
relationship with us that will last for eternity. I am praying for
you...that when the time is right for you, that you will also pray this
prayer and enter into God's "forever" family (if you haven't done so
already!).
To which he promptly replied, " I just found out that 2 of my fellow colleagues
also found out about God from the Campus Crusade while studying in Japan. Had the impression that Campus Crusade is exclusive to Australia. I'm happy to tell you that I've not only accepted Jesus but he is alive and kicking in all aspects and facets of my life.
I really appreciate you giving me the "Knowing God Personally" booklet. Prayer is a really powerful tool to communicate with God.
Thanks very much for your prayer and am pleased to inform you that
I'm already in God's "forever" family. :-) I feel so blessed to be able to
know God."
I found it interesting to reflect on the fact that even with several hundred people meeting together at a secular function with a very small timeframe window, God sometimes draws Christians together for fellowship and mutual encouragement.
I am continuing to write to my new friend (and brother) and we plan to get together for coffee and chat again sometime--even if we have to wait until we get to "glory".
I met a couple of US Coast Guard officers who were on permanent duty assignment in Singapore. While the three of us were talking together with a Singaporean "socialite", she asked what my role was on the team. When I told her I was the chaplain she almost choked on her drink. Her first audible reply was "I didnt know basketball was that dangerous! Have you had to deal with many deaths?" As I went on to explain how more and more professional sports were seeing the benefit of someone who could help the athletes in their spiritual quests (and thus enhance their lives...and possibly even their "game"), one of the Coast Guard officers kept nodding his head in agreement. Found out later his father was a long serving chaplain in the US Navy.
Just before leaving I started chatting with a Singaporean government official and we really seemed to hit it off, but we got the call for the players to return to the bus before I could shift the conversation to spiritual matters. I told my new friend that I wasn't really sure about the proper protocol at the High Commission in regard to exchanging information, but would he "be offended" if I were to give him a small booklet that might help him on his spiritual journey. He was very gracious in receiving the "Knowing God Personally" booklet with profuse thanks and we said a quick "goodbye".
Several days later I received an email from my friend saying..."thanks very much for the booklet on "Knowing God Personally". I found it very enriching and helpful."
To which I replied with (a little bit longer note) saying...
"What a pleasant surprise the receive your email today. I have great
memories of the function and the Australian High Commission last
Australia Day...and I especially enjoyed meeting you.
The famous historian Arnold Toynbee once said, "Most people haven't
really rejected the person of Jesus. They have pieced together a straw
man, put a sign saying 'Jesus' around it's neck, then proceeded to tear
it apart and finally said, 'This man has no relevance to me.'" And I
would concur, rightly so...our misconceptions about the person of Christ
usually don't have much relevance. The tragedy is that (rather than
explore the authentic message about Christ from the New Testament
historical documents) we simply "stop" (or postpone) our investigation
after we have "dismantled" the counterfeits.
Anyhow (friend), that's why I like to suggest via the "Knowing God
Personally" booklet, that the starting point of a successful spiritual
journey with Jesus is in actually "meeting him". The booklet explains
that rather simple (almost too simple?) process in the prayer of
invitation on page 13. Millions of people around the world...regardless
of gender, race, or nationality (and even regardless of religious
background) have found the common denominator in their walk with God is
a heartfelt prayer similar to the one here...where a person simply asks
Jesus to come into their lives.
He delights in responding to this invitation...and enters into a
relationship with us that will last for eternity. I am praying for
you...that when the time is right for you, that you will also pray this
prayer and enter into God's "forever" family (if you haven't done so
already!).
To which he promptly replied, " I just found out that 2 of my fellow colleagues
also found out about God from the Campus Crusade while studying in Japan. Had the impression that Campus Crusade is exclusive to Australia. I'm happy to tell you that I've not only accepted Jesus but he is alive and kicking in all aspects and facets of my life.
I really appreciate you giving me the "Knowing God Personally" booklet. Prayer is a really powerful tool to communicate with God.
Thanks very much for your prayer and am pleased to inform you that
I'm already in God's "forever" family. :-) I feel so blessed to be able to
know God."
I found it interesting to reflect on the fact that even with several hundred people meeting together at a secular function with a very small timeframe window, God sometimes draws Christians together for fellowship and mutual encouragement.
I am continuing to write to my new friend (and brother) and we plan to get together for coffee and chat again sometime--even if we have to wait until we get to "glory".
Monday, January 31, 2005
Road Trip Reflections
Monday
It has taken a bit of time to recover (sleep-wise)...drowsing in church yesterday but have had three naps since. But, I am gaining some energy...and perspective on my thinking about the road trip.
In short, it was great for relationships and discussions (the main agenda). I always come away wishing I could have done more...and seen things move further along than they seem to...but on the other hand, I spent some good time everyday in prayer for each of the others on the trip... and was both sensitive and "bold" (fine balance) in interaction. Had several excellant talks with guys personally (ranging from 15 minutes to two hours) that wouldn't have happened if I hadn't been there. I experienced the team "bonding" phenomena of a long road trip and was able to make the occasional "practical" help "offering" that eased the burden on others. I was actively praying for God's mercy for the team (as a result of one of my quiet times while on the tour).
Jason and I were able to somehow squeeze in time to share the stories of our faith journeys with about 20+ kids at a community outreach centre for disadvantaged kids sponsored by one the parachurch groups in Singapore...and give all the kids free tickets to the game...and offer them eternal life in Jesus. Great to see them as a group there at the game on Saturday.
An unexpected benefit of the time there was due to the fact that most Singaporeans speak excellant English so the support staff assigned to three players to handle the taxi fares and receipts I uses the trip to chat with the driver and then give each of them a "Knowing God Personally" booklet along with a small tip. Who knows what may come of that as God continues to work?
It has taken a bit of time to recover (sleep-wise)...drowsing in church yesterday but have had three naps since. But, I am gaining some energy...and perspective on my thinking about the road trip.
In short, it was great for relationships and discussions (the main agenda). I always come away wishing I could have done more...and seen things move further along than they seem to...but on the other hand, I spent some good time everyday in prayer for each of the others on the trip... and was both sensitive and "bold" (fine balance) in interaction. Had several excellant talks with guys personally (ranging from 15 minutes to two hours) that wouldn't have happened if I hadn't been there. I experienced the team "bonding" phenomena of a long road trip and was able to make the occasional "practical" help "offering" that eased the burden on others. I was actively praying for God's mercy for the team (as a result of one of my quiet times while on the tour).
Jason and I were able to somehow squeeze in time to share the stories of our faith journeys with about 20+ kids at a community outreach centre for disadvantaged kids sponsored by one the parachurch groups in Singapore...and give all the kids free tickets to the game...and offer them eternal life in Jesus. Great to see them as a group there at the game on Saturday.
An unexpected benefit of the time there was due to the fact that most Singaporeans speak excellant English so the support staff assigned to three players to handle the taxi fares and receipts I uses the trip to chat with the driver and then give each of them a "Knowing God Personally" booklet along with a small tip. Who knows what may come of that as God continues to work?
Kings Road Trip--Day Eight
Saturday
Pretty much all over but the travel home today. Up very early, pack, get a quick snack for breakfast, and load on to the bus for the run out the airport.
Qantas flight was marginally better than Virgin but I wasn't sure how I would make the squeeze for seven hours. I couldn't get my usual aisle...or even window...seat so ended up squashed into a middle row middle seat and when the person in front of me reclined their seat I pretty much had to keep both legs stretched out fully under their seat and rested my book on their headrest.
And some of the boys (with and extra eight to ten inches on me) had it even worse. One said he had to stand for almost four hours since he couldn't fold himself back into the seat.
Nevertheless, everyone said they were willing to do it again as it looks like we had a very good reception from Singapore and may be invited again.
This game was the first regular season game between two Australian National Basketball League teams played outside of Australia so it was "historic"...and especially good for the first ever to be won by the Sydney Kings. Goorj even gave the boys two days off!
Pretty much all over but the travel home today. Up very early, pack, get a quick snack for breakfast, and load on to the bus for the run out the airport.
Qantas flight was marginally better than Virgin but I wasn't sure how I would make the squeeze for seven hours. I couldn't get my usual aisle...or even window...seat so ended up squashed into a middle row middle seat and when the person in front of me reclined their seat I pretty much had to keep both legs stretched out fully under their seat and rested my book on their headrest.
And some of the boys (with and extra eight to ten inches on me) had it even worse. One said he had to stand for almost four hours since he couldn't fold himself back into the seat.
Nevertheless, everyone said they were willing to do it again as it looks like we had a very good reception from Singapore and may be invited again.
This game was the first regular season game between two Australian National Basketball League teams played outside of Australia so it was "historic"...and especially good for the first ever to be won by the Sydney Kings. Goorj even gave the boys two days off!
Day Seven--Continued
Spent the afternoon down at the computer mall trying to secure a $150 GST rebate for one of the players on a purchase he had made--since he didn't have time to do the paperwork. Besides, I wanted to be out of the room to give the boys a chance to nap.
Pregame rituals are different for every player and some start hours before the game. Some like to get a nap and fresh shave before the game. Some read or listen to music...and some of the guys like to read the Bible and pray. I'm learning that it is best not to interupt this schedule, but to be available to help in other ways while they get into the zone.
While running the errand and doing some shopping, I rang a friend (Lay Kuan--a CCC graphics artist who had done the AIA newsletter for us just before she returned to Singapore after a Short Term International assignment in Sydney). She had helped set up the outreach meeting yesterday, so I rang to offer her some free tickets to the game. Although she was not able to go to the game because of other commitments, she did want to get together for a chat. Since she wasn't too far from the computer mall, we arranged to meet for coffee. Lay Kuan brought along her sister and we had a great time chatting about the Kings and their family. Unfortunately, time was limited to half an hour, but I'm glad something worked out.
Back to the hotel to wake up the boys and off to the game by bus...both teams traveling together.
Good audience of over 7000 enthusiastic basketball fanatics. And great game...
Wildcats jumped to a nine point lead in the first couple of minutes and it began to look like a repeat of Darwin. But the Kings followed the game plan and gradually came back to lead by 16 points at half time--holding the Wildcats to a very low 36 points for the half. After mid-game the Wildcats ate away at the lead until they were within one point with only two and bit minutes remaining. But the Kings held fast and didn't crumble...tremendous defence and some crunch shots forced the Wildcats to foul in hopes of slowing the game clock. But the guys were hitting their free throws so the game score actually looked like a comfortable win (6 points) even though it was actually much closer.
Jason had a high scoring game at 26 points with three three pointers at clutch time. Really proud of the team. They were happy to win but gracious towards the Wildcats which was important since we had to have both teams front up to a post-game function and travel back to the hotel together on the same bus.
Went out to find something to eat after getting back to the hotel but I settled for a soft drink since I didn't want to take chances on health for trip home tomorrow. Another short stop at the hotel bar (peanuts only for me!) to celebrate with support staff, coaches, and couple of the players. When they decided to head off to another club I begged off to get a couple of hours of sleep before a 5:15 am wakeup and long flight home.
Great day...always good to travel on the back of Win.
Pregame rituals are different for every player and some start hours before the game. Some like to get a nap and fresh shave before the game. Some read or listen to music...and some of the guys like to read the Bible and pray. I'm learning that it is best not to interupt this schedule, but to be available to help in other ways while they get into the zone.
While running the errand and doing some shopping, I rang a friend (Lay Kuan--a CCC graphics artist who had done the AIA newsletter for us just before she returned to Singapore after a Short Term International assignment in Sydney). She had helped set up the outreach meeting yesterday, so I rang to offer her some free tickets to the game. Although she was not able to go to the game because of other commitments, she did want to get together for a chat. Since she wasn't too far from the computer mall, we arranged to meet for coffee. Lay Kuan brought along her sister and we had a great time chatting about the Kings and their family. Unfortunately, time was limited to half an hour, but I'm glad something worked out.
Back to the hotel to wake up the boys and off to the game by bus...both teams traveling together.
Good audience of over 7000 enthusiastic basketball fanatics. And great game...
Wildcats jumped to a nine point lead in the first couple of minutes and it began to look like a repeat of Darwin. But the Kings followed the game plan and gradually came back to lead by 16 points at half time--holding the Wildcats to a very low 36 points for the half. After mid-game the Wildcats ate away at the lead until they were within one point with only two and bit minutes remaining. But the Kings held fast and didn't crumble...tremendous defence and some crunch shots forced the Wildcats to foul in hopes of slowing the game clock. But the guys were hitting their free throws so the game score actually looked like a comfortable win (6 points) even though it was actually much closer.
Jason had a high scoring game at 26 points with three three pointers at clutch time. Really proud of the team. They were happy to win but gracious towards the Wildcats which was important since we had to have both teams front up to a post-game function and travel back to the hotel together on the same bus.
Went out to find something to eat after getting back to the hotel but I settled for a soft drink since I didn't want to take chances on health for trip home tomorrow. Another short stop at the hotel bar (peanuts only for me!) to celebrate with support staff, coaches, and couple of the players. When they decided to head off to another club I begged off to get a couple of hours of sleep before a 5:15 am wakeup and long flight home.
Great day...always good to travel on the back of Win.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Kings Road Trip--Day Seven
Friday
Turned out to be what I am beginning to see as a pattern for game day with guys beginning to focus on the game and "non-essential" conversation fading as the day goes on.
Breakfast at hotel followed by "shoot around" at the Singapore Indoor stadium (game venue).
Took my t-shirt as well as my grey soulsport polo so that I could help with free throw rebounding if necessary, but ended up leaving it on a chair there and never recovered it!
Fortunately that was the only loss of the day since the Kings won a very close game against the Wildcats later on in the day.
Mostly some shopping in afternoon. Game summary later.
Turned out to be what I am beginning to see as a pattern for game day with guys beginning to focus on the game and "non-essential" conversation fading as the day goes on.
Breakfast at hotel followed by "shoot around" at the Singapore Indoor stadium (game venue).
Took my t-shirt as well as my grey soulsport polo so that I could help with free throw rebounding if necessary, but ended up leaving it on a chair there and never recovered it!
Fortunately that was the only loss of the day since the Kings won a very close game against the Wildcats later on in the day.
Mostly some shopping in afternoon. Game summary later.
Friday, January 28, 2005
Kings Road Trip--Day Six
Thursday
Breakfast with team and out to "new" training centre with wooden floors. Had a short talk with one of the support staff about "comparative religions" brought on by discussion about the people praying to buddhas in the outdoor marketplaces. Later continued the conversation briefly. I gained some awesome insight from this conversation that will take me some time to digest but I certainly appreciate my mates' comment and enjoyed the interaction.
Handed a brief handwritten "study" on Daniel to the player I had talked to yesterday and he was appreciative of the time I had taken to expand on our conversation. Did a quick shop with Wheels instead of lunch and loaded on to a bus with both teams to do a Harvey Norman promo at the Suntec Shopping Centre. While the two teams made long shots and were introduced to the shoppers, I was asked to give out free tickets to the game. Had a great time "socializing" and joking with people about the game. Took advantage of a special "team rate" to buy a half-gig memory stick for my computer.
After the promo the team was released for some free time to find there own way back to the hotel (only a couple of kilometers away). I had arranged to picked up by a couple of workers with the FaithActs organization who work with underprivileged kids in one of the high rises near the hotel. Jason and I went with them to do a slamdunk demo and 10 minute clinic followed by the two of us telling the story of our spiritual journey to the kids (about 20 +).
Jason also explained how someone could come to know Christ and I offered them free tickets to the game as a visual demonstration of how it wasn't enough to merely have a gift offered to you (either basketball games or heaven)...you must accept the gift before it is yours--even if it has already been paid for. Jason lead the kids in silent prayer if they wanted to respond to Christ but we had no indication of any decisions (neither did we ask for one though).
Very rewarding and Jason seemed to be energized by the experience. Once again he did a great job in communicating. I asked him later if it was the first time he had "presented" to a group in a different country and after short assessment he thought it probably was. I welcomed him into the ranks of "foreign missionaries".
Back to hotel for Team/Public Cocktail Party in the lobby and again enjoyed explaining chaplaincy role to the dubious. One group of three cyclists from Perth who were here to cycle but planning to see the game asked if I would bless them!
Back up the room to an early night in preparation for the game day tomorrow. Good day!
Breakfast with team and out to "new" training centre with wooden floors. Had a short talk with one of the support staff about "comparative religions" brought on by discussion about the people praying to buddhas in the outdoor marketplaces. Later continued the conversation briefly. I gained some awesome insight from this conversation that will take me some time to digest but I certainly appreciate my mates' comment and enjoyed the interaction.
Handed a brief handwritten "study" on Daniel to the player I had talked to yesterday and he was appreciative of the time I had taken to expand on our conversation. Did a quick shop with Wheels instead of lunch and loaded on to a bus with both teams to do a Harvey Norman promo at the Suntec Shopping Centre. While the two teams made long shots and were introduced to the shoppers, I was asked to give out free tickets to the game. Had a great time "socializing" and joking with people about the game. Took advantage of a special "team rate" to buy a half-gig memory stick for my computer.
After the promo the team was released for some free time to find there own way back to the hotel (only a couple of kilometers away). I had arranged to picked up by a couple of workers with the FaithActs organization who work with underprivileged kids in one of the high rises near the hotel. Jason and I went with them to do a slamdunk demo and 10 minute clinic followed by the two of us telling the story of our spiritual journey to the kids (about 20 +).
Jason also explained how someone could come to know Christ and I offered them free tickets to the game as a visual demonstration of how it wasn't enough to merely have a gift offered to you (either basketball games or heaven)...you must accept the gift before it is yours--even if it has already been paid for. Jason lead the kids in silent prayer if they wanted to respond to Christ but we had no indication of any decisions (neither did we ask for one though).
Very rewarding and Jason seemed to be energized by the experience. Once again he did a great job in communicating. I asked him later if it was the first time he had "presented" to a group in a different country and after short assessment he thought it probably was. I welcomed him into the ranks of "foreign missionaries".
Back to hotel for Team/Public Cocktail Party in the lobby and again enjoyed explaining chaplaincy role to the dubious. One group of three cyclists from Perth who were here to cycle but planning to see the game asked if I would bless them!
Back up the room to an early night in preparation for the game day tomorrow. Good day!
Kings Road Trip--Day Five
Wednesday
Best day of the trip so far. Early morning wakeup (7:00 am) to load onto a bus for a half-hour trip to Singapore Zoo for Press conference and "Breakfast at the Zoo"...outdoor (shaded) dining room right next to the orangatangs enclosure. I'm not sure who was more interested in who here. It did look like the orangatangs had riper bananas however. Had an hour to stroll so a couple of us headed off the "lions" and I had a great talk with one of the younger players about the story of Daniel in the Lions den.
Back to hotel and off to Australian International School (again) for friendly game with students and staff with ESPN press conference and training following...started in smaller (cooler) gym and ended up on large court. Met Rick Chong--Singaporean Christian worker near end of training and passed on three "Give Me The Rock" videos for his use with the boys and girls he works with in Boy's Brigade. Disappointing that we were not able to nail down an evangelistic meeting but he was very gracious.
Back to hotel by cab to change for special Australia Day reception at the Australian High Commission. Traveled by bus with the Wildcats. Had to loan my long pants to Mark as he hadn't brought a pair. He wore them low enough on his hips (with a belt to take in about eight inches) and they almost fit if he wore his polo shirt (out). The function was really fun. Met quite a few Australians and American military (Coast Guard on three year assignment to Singapore-- if can believe it!).
Great too see jaws drop and questions flow when the conversation eventually turned to my role with the team. One lady thought chaplains were only involved with groups that had a high death rate. I assured her that wasn't the case in basketball and explained that more and more professional sports are concerned about the development of the athlete as a "whole person". At elite levels of competition...where physical and mental condition and skills are pretty much honed to near perfection by competing players...a significant spiritual development in a player's life can give him a slight edge.
Interesting--as I was explaining this, one of the Coast Guard officers kept nodding and agreeing with me as an affirmation to this woman that what I said was true. I found out later that his father was a long time chaplain in the US Navy. Was able to pass on a Knowing God Personally booklet to one of the guests from the Singaporean government who is quite an avid Kings fan.
Returned fairly early to the hotel by bus...after dropping off the Wildcats for an evening practice!!! Went computer shop browsing with Jason and Wheels. Returned to hotel to settle in to bit of junk food (small bag of potatoe crisps--shared) and had a great (informal!!!) question and answer discussion that flowed quite enjoyably for close to two hours. This chat will certainly be a highlight of the week for me. Drifted off to sleep around 12.
Best day of the trip so far. Early morning wakeup (7:00 am) to load onto a bus for a half-hour trip to Singapore Zoo for Press conference and "Breakfast at the Zoo"...outdoor (shaded) dining room right next to the orangatangs enclosure. I'm not sure who was more interested in who here. It did look like the orangatangs had riper bananas however. Had an hour to stroll so a couple of us headed off the "lions" and I had a great talk with one of the younger players about the story of Daniel in the Lions den.
Back to hotel and off to Australian International School (again) for friendly game with students and staff with ESPN press conference and training following...started in smaller (cooler) gym and ended up on large court. Met Rick Chong--Singaporean Christian worker near end of training and passed on three "Give Me The Rock" videos for his use with the boys and girls he works with in Boy's Brigade. Disappointing that we were not able to nail down an evangelistic meeting but he was very gracious.
Back to hotel by cab to change for special Australia Day reception at the Australian High Commission. Traveled by bus with the Wildcats. Had to loan my long pants to Mark as he hadn't brought a pair. He wore them low enough on his hips (with a belt to take in about eight inches) and they almost fit if he wore his polo shirt (out). The function was really fun. Met quite a few Australians and American military (Coast Guard on three year assignment to Singapore-- if can believe it!).
Great too see jaws drop and questions flow when the conversation eventually turned to my role with the team. One lady thought chaplains were only involved with groups that had a high death rate. I assured her that wasn't the case in basketball and explained that more and more professional sports are concerned about the development of the athlete as a "whole person". At elite levels of competition...where physical and mental condition and skills are pretty much honed to near perfection by competing players...a significant spiritual development in a player's life can give him a slight edge.
Interesting--as I was explaining this, one of the Coast Guard officers kept nodding and agreeing with me as an affirmation to this woman that what I said was true. I found out later that his father was a long time chaplain in the US Navy. Was able to pass on a Knowing God Personally booklet to one of the guests from the Singaporean government who is quite an avid Kings fan.
Returned fairly early to the hotel by bus...after dropping off the Wildcats for an evening practice!!! Went computer shop browsing with Jason and Wheels. Returned to hotel to settle in to bit of junk food (small bag of potatoe crisps--shared) and had a great (informal!!!) question and answer discussion that flowed quite enjoyably for close to two hours. This chat will certainly be a highlight of the week for me. Drifted off to sleep around 12.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Kings Road Trip--Day Four
Tuesday
First full day in Singapore. Breakfast in hotel restaurant followed by bus trip out to the One World (International-very exclusive private) School of South East Asia for a tour and press conference. Once again had a lot of wait time but had a good talk with one of the support staff about his religious background and learned a bit from him about a branch of Christianity that I am not too familiar with. Enjoyed the chat.
Able to pass off another "verse of the day" to the player I mentioned a couple of days ago--for guidance in his daily reading. About half way through the press conference had a good chat with Ja and we decided we needed to spend some time "in the Word" tonight...about two hours later he was pretty sick (flu?) and eventually ended up skipping training to try to sleep it off.
Meanwhile the team was back to hotel to change and get ready for training and then taxi's to the Australian International School for training (4-6:30 pm) on a cement floor (not good for the guys and there in no "spring" and muscles get sore quite quickly--not to mention a pretty intense heat even though the gym was air-conditioned.
During the training has a great chance to chat with one of the other support staff about some of his experiences in travel with basketball and most enjoyed talks about his visits to cathedrals in Europe. Clean up gym and taxi's back to the hotel.
Late team dinner at the hotel and Jason came down after a long nap saying he was feeling a little better but he still looked pretty shot. Said he was still up for a Bible study so we waited until the others had left for shopping and spent about an hour and half in the room talking about an iarea of personal development that he is interested in. This was a rich time for both of us concluding in prayer together. Long day but felt pretty good about it. Several "mini-conversations" with about half the team. Step by step!
Hit the rack about 11:30 pm.
First full day in Singapore. Breakfast in hotel restaurant followed by bus trip out to the One World (International-very exclusive private) School of South East Asia for a tour and press conference. Once again had a lot of wait time but had a good talk with one of the support staff about his religious background and learned a bit from him about a branch of Christianity that I am not too familiar with. Enjoyed the chat.
Able to pass off another "verse of the day" to the player I mentioned a couple of days ago--for guidance in his daily reading. About half way through the press conference had a good chat with Ja and we decided we needed to spend some time "in the Word" tonight...about two hours later he was pretty sick (flu?) and eventually ended up skipping training to try to sleep it off.
Meanwhile the team was back to hotel to change and get ready for training and then taxi's to the Australian International School for training (4-6:30 pm) on a cement floor (not good for the guys and there in no "spring" and muscles get sore quite quickly--not to mention a pretty intense heat even though the gym was air-conditioned.
During the training has a great chance to chat with one of the other support staff about some of his experiences in travel with basketball and most enjoyed talks about his visits to cathedrals in Europe. Clean up gym and taxi's back to the hotel.
Late team dinner at the hotel and Jason came down after a long nap saying he was feeling a little better but he still looked pretty shot. Said he was still up for a Bible study so we waited until the others had left for shopping and spent about an hour and half in the room talking about an iarea of personal development that he is interested in. This was a rich time for both of us concluding in prayer together. Long day but felt pretty good about it. Several "mini-conversations" with about half the team. Step by step!
Hit the rack about 11:30 pm.
Kings Road Trip--Day Three
Monday...Worked out with the team at a small gym in Darwin after breakfast. Weights circuit and stationary bikes with exercises to stretch out after. Return to hotel for a hot bath and packing up my bags. Quick lunch and help pack up the mini-coach for the run to the airport. Heat was sweltering...only took about 30 seconds to draw sweat.
Arrived plenty early and like so much of a road trip spent the wait time chatting and playing Uno with five of the players. Took a break for one hand to approach one of the Perth Wildcats who had been pointed out to me a former player on a West Australian AIA team. We had a good chat and he was keen to get together sometime with Jason and I to talk about how to get some prayer going with his team. He's not really sure of the spiritual status of the other players on his team. We planned to meet together some time in Singapore.
Finally loaded up for a three and half hour Qantas flight in the late afternoon. Had a good trip and started up a very productive talk with the (60+ year old) guy sitting next to me. He was on his way to Thailand so naturally our conversation turned to the tsunami and from there on to "how to prepare for natural catastrophe". He thought my approach was novel..."Be ready to die at any moment--by knowing Jesus personally." Resulted in a great information exchange and left him with a Knowing God Personally booklet. He asked me for my email so that he could keep in touch when he finally returned to England as he is a former rugby player and avid fan of the sport. I reckon Cy was the divine appointment of the day!
Settled into the hotel. As I was wait-listed and there "was no room in the inn" the team captain suggested we get a rollaway for their room and have me bunk there. The other player assigned to the room was fine with that so things were settled pretty quickly and it will actually save me big bucks on accommodation.
Had a late team dinner and went for a late night (well actually 9:45 pm) stroll with Wheels down to a massive computer store (actually six stories of shops) to check out bargains. He's on the prowl for a cheap(er) laptop. Arrived six blocks later just at closing time but it's early in our stay.
Shower and crash for the night.
Arrived plenty early and like so much of a road trip spent the wait time chatting and playing Uno with five of the players. Took a break for one hand to approach one of the Perth Wildcats who had been pointed out to me a former player on a West Australian AIA team. We had a good chat and he was keen to get together sometime with Jason and I to talk about how to get some prayer going with his team. He's not really sure of the spiritual status of the other players on his team. We planned to meet together some time in Singapore.
Finally loaded up for a three and half hour Qantas flight in the late afternoon. Had a good trip and started up a very productive talk with the (60+ year old) guy sitting next to me. He was on his way to Thailand so naturally our conversation turned to the tsunami and from there on to "how to prepare for natural catastrophe". He thought my approach was novel..."Be ready to die at any moment--by knowing Jesus personally." Resulted in a great information exchange and left him with a Knowing God Personally booklet. He asked me for my email so that he could keep in touch when he finally returned to England as he is a former rugby player and avid fan of the sport. I reckon Cy was the divine appointment of the day!
Settled into the hotel. As I was wait-listed and there "was no room in the inn" the team captain suggested we get a rollaway for their room and have me bunk there. The other player assigned to the room was fine with that so things were settled pretty quickly and it will actually save me big bucks on accommodation.
Had a late team dinner and went for a late night (well actually 9:45 pm) stroll with Wheels down to a massive computer store (actually six stories of shops) to check out bargains. He's on the prowl for a cheap(er) laptop. Arrived six blocks later just at closing time but it's early in our stay.
Shower and crash for the night.
Sunday, January 23, 2005
Sydney Kings Tour--Day Two
The Lord was gracious with an exit row seat...and an empty seat next to me for the Brisbane to Darwin leg. Dosed a couple of times but managed to read about a third of The Heavenly Man (near "unbelievable" biography of a Chinese Christian brother who has suffered much for his faith but has seen phenomenal fruit). Stirring and challenging. It has had me praying much more in the last 24 hours. Arrived in Darwin about 11:30 pm. Checked in...showered...and slept cold under some frigid air-conditioning at the Sky City Casino Hotel.
Much better day today as far as connecting and engaging in my role with the team. Did a workout with the team after a light breakfast and then prepped for the game by searching the Scriptures for appropriate verses to share with guys at our pre-game prayer meeting. Felt lead to share I Corin. 15:58 with one of the guys but didn't actually find an approriate time before the game.
After the warmup on court in a very warm and smallish stadium the usual crew of three players and I met for a brief encouragement from the word and prayer together. We looked at an initial selection of key thoughts from Hebrews 12:1-2 that focused on "endurance" from "start to finish" by looking to the Lord. Short prayer and then...
A tough game against Perth. Though they were playing without "Amazing Grace" (Ricky Grace...a brother in the Lord) they did well and pulled away from us in the second quarter. Although there was some fightback...even toward the end...closing to seven points (from almost a 20 point deficit)...we couldn't bring it together. We only hit 11 of 43 three point attempts. When the percentage is that low it is hard to win. And their big guys really controlled the defensive boards. Anyhow...a bit disappointing for our guys.
I managed to sit on the end of the bench and help with the water...and even felt a degree of success in not yelling (too much!) at the referees. Worked hard at cheering the players rather than jeering the officials.
Returned...in the heat...to a recovery session in the hotel pool and sat down to an early dinner. When almost everyone had left the table I got into a great conversation with one of the guys about his "life journey". It was very helpful...and fun...to chat about where he was coming from. I appreciate his maturing attitude and commitment to read his Bible and pray everyday. We talked a bit about how important it is not merely to know God's word but to be moving closer and closer to the "God of the words" daily...very relaxed and encouraging time.
By the way, this is the guy that I had a verse for earlier in the day...so I shared it with him after dinner. He said with verses like that I could share them with him more often...he seems to place a high value on guidance.
So Day Two has been a step up...looking forward to Day Three.
Much better day today as far as connecting and engaging in my role with the team. Did a workout with the team after a light breakfast and then prepped for the game by searching the Scriptures for appropriate verses to share with guys at our pre-game prayer meeting. Felt lead to share I Corin. 15:58 with one of the guys but didn't actually find an approriate time before the game.
After the warmup on court in a very warm and smallish stadium the usual crew of three players and I met for a brief encouragement from the word and prayer together. We looked at an initial selection of key thoughts from Hebrews 12:1-2 that focused on "endurance" from "start to finish" by looking to the Lord. Short prayer and then...
A tough game against Perth. Though they were playing without "Amazing Grace" (Ricky Grace...a brother in the Lord) they did well and pulled away from us in the second quarter. Although there was some fightback...even toward the end...closing to seven points (from almost a 20 point deficit)...we couldn't bring it together. We only hit 11 of 43 three point attempts. When the percentage is that low it is hard to win. And their big guys really controlled the defensive boards. Anyhow...a bit disappointing for our guys.
I managed to sit on the end of the bench and help with the water...and even felt a degree of success in not yelling (too much!) at the referees. Worked hard at cheering the players rather than jeering the officials.
Returned...in the heat...to a recovery session in the hotel pool and sat down to an early dinner. When almost everyone had left the table I got into a great conversation with one of the guys about his "life journey". It was very helpful...and fun...to chat about where he was coming from. I appreciate his maturing attitude and commitment to read his Bible and pray everyday. We talked a bit about how important it is not merely to know God's word but to be moving closer and closer to the "God of the words" daily...very relaxed and encouraging time.
By the way, this is the guy that I had a verse for earlier in the day...so I shared it with him after dinner. He said with verses like that I could share them with him more often...he seems to place a high value on guidance.
So Day Two has been a step up...looking forward to Day Three.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Kings Road Trip North--Day One
First day of the tour...almost 7:00pm...and I haven't seen a King yet. Well, it was expected!
I was scheduled for the original flight time with Virgin and the team decided to travel about 12 hours earlier with Qantas to get some rest time before the first game with Perth tomorrow. Meanwhile, I had made plans to attend the wedding reception of a friend and found it would be too costly to change carriers anyway.
So I am flying up by myself and will arrive after midnight and meet the guys for a light breakfast tommorrow. Did get in a good conversation with the Lord but none "about" Him yet!
Gotta go catch my connecting flight to Darwin.
I was scheduled for the original flight time with Virgin and the team decided to travel about 12 hours earlier with Qantas to get some rest time before the first game with Perth tomorrow. Meanwhile, I had made plans to attend the wedding reception of a friend and found it would be too costly to change carriers anyway.
So I am flying up by myself and will arrive after midnight and meet the guys for a light breakfast tommorrow. Did get in a good conversation with the Lord but none "about" Him yet!
Gotta go catch my connecting flight to Darwin.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Mogolian BBQ--Main Course
Here is the continuation of Rich's adventure in Mongolia started in my last posting...
There were a number of other lessons, but one other I think I have to share. The first morning of seeing patients was very similar to last year, with a crush of people crowding around and repeatedly bursting into the room as I tried to take a history through the translator and examine the patient. I was increasingly frustrated, and on the walk to lunch I was praying about it when God called to my mind that, while I was fuming about 40-50 people crowding around me demanding my diagnoses and recommendations, Jesus had 4000 crowding around Him asking for life eternal.
My inconvenience was minimal, and not very compassionate. I asked God's forgiveness, and determined to have a different attitude that afternoon. Within 5 minutes, one of the non-medical helpers on the trip came up to me and stated he wanted to organize things better for me, and that he would work out a number system. And with that, the rest of the trip for me was a very organized series of patient examinations.
But I needed that lesson in compassion. The next afternoon, the Cardiology group (everyone but me and my two assistants) finished early, by 4:30. They informed us they were all leaving to go back to the hotel, and that we HAD to be done by 6:00 to go to dinner. But at 5:30, we still had 7 patients left to be seen. The two guys helping me asked what I wanted to do, because there would be no sense in making some of them wait only to be told we were leaving at 6:00. I thought about the lesson on compassion, and asked if they minded being late for dinner, because we were going to another town the next day, and therefore would not be able to come back for anyone we turned away. They both agreed whole heartedly.
At 6:20, as I was getting ready to call one of the last patients into the room, one of the guys stuck his head in with wide-eyed eagerness, announced that this parent actually spoke English, and he had shared the gospel with her. She had said she was not yet ready to accept Christ, but this guy was convinced that I needed to share it with her one more time. So as I began to ask questions about her daughter's seizures, I was praying, "God, show me how to segue into a Gospel presentation, show me how to transition this discussion".
Suddenly, the mother looked at me and asked, "How do I accept Jesus into my life?" I shared with her, asked if she wanted to pray for Him to come into her life now, and she said "Yes"!!!!! What an incredible gift God gave me for the simple act of obedience to His lesson to me.
And can you imagine a ten day trip with lessons like that every day? God is so incredibly good, most especially for His personal involvement and His opening my eyes to see.
How can we not praise Him at all times?
There were a number of other lessons, but one other I think I have to share. The first morning of seeing patients was very similar to last year, with a crush of people crowding around and repeatedly bursting into the room as I tried to take a history through the translator and examine the patient. I was increasingly frustrated, and on the walk to lunch I was praying about it when God called to my mind that, while I was fuming about 40-50 people crowding around me demanding my diagnoses and recommendations, Jesus had 4000 crowding around Him asking for life eternal.
My inconvenience was minimal, and not very compassionate. I asked God's forgiveness, and determined to have a different attitude that afternoon. Within 5 minutes, one of the non-medical helpers on the trip came up to me and stated he wanted to organize things better for me, and that he would work out a number system. And with that, the rest of the trip for me was a very organized series of patient examinations.
But I needed that lesson in compassion. The next afternoon, the Cardiology group (everyone but me and my two assistants) finished early, by 4:30. They informed us they were all leaving to go back to the hotel, and that we HAD to be done by 6:00 to go to dinner. But at 5:30, we still had 7 patients left to be seen. The two guys helping me asked what I wanted to do, because there would be no sense in making some of them wait only to be told we were leaving at 6:00. I thought about the lesson on compassion, and asked if they minded being late for dinner, because we were going to another town the next day, and therefore would not be able to come back for anyone we turned away. They both agreed whole heartedly.
At 6:20, as I was getting ready to call one of the last patients into the room, one of the guys stuck his head in with wide-eyed eagerness, announced that this parent actually spoke English, and he had shared the gospel with her. She had said she was not yet ready to accept Christ, but this guy was convinced that I needed to share it with her one more time. So as I began to ask questions about her daughter's seizures, I was praying, "God, show me how to segue into a Gospel presentation, show me how to transition this discussion".
Suddenly, the mother looked at me and asked, "How do I accept Jesus into my life?" I shared with her, asked if she wanted to pray for Him to come into her life now, and she said "Yes"!!!!! What an incredible gift God gave me for the simple act of obedience to His lesson to me.
And can you imagine a ten day trip with lessons like that every day? God is so incredibly good, most especially for His personal involvement and His opening my eyes to see.
How can we not praise Him at all times?
Indeed! Thanks, Rich, for sharing the story with me.
Monday, January 03, 2005
Vicarous Mongolian BBQ
Here is an edited copy of my favorite "Christmas Letter" received this season. It is from my brother-in-law who is a medical doctor who has invested part of his vacation time for several years in short term mission to Mongolia. He is "champion" as we say in Oz and I was really encouraged by this simple "journal" of his adventure. Because of the length of the story I will publish it in several segments (and I have even been promised a few photos!)
"My trip to Mongolia was truly a God-focused adventure for me, but far too much to put in a Christmas letter. There was truly a lesson every day for me. For example, the first day in country, we were in the capital city Ulaanbaatar. We flew in, quickly checked into our hotel, then went out as a group (22 of us in 3 microbuses) to see the Museum of Mongolian History. The microbuses left, scheduled to come back to pick us up at 4:45. We got out of the museum at 3:45, and with an hour to kill, the group decided to walk in the big city square down the block.
My knee was hurting (I had some torn cartilage), so I stated (apparently to no one) that I would wait at the museum for the buses. I knew I had been left behind when 5:30 rolled around, and not one person had returned, nor the buses. The microbuses apparently saw the group over on the square, picked them up there, and with 22 strangers in 3 buses, no one realized that one person was missing. And they did not realize it until 8:30 that night, as they were finishing dinner.
When I began to suspect by 5:30 that I had been left behind, the sun was setting, it was cold (about 15 degrees F), and I was in a city of 750,000 speaking a language I knew all of 3 words (thank you, hello, and yes). I did not know the name of our hotel, and I had no phone numbers to call. I had no way of contacting anyone I knew in that city, or of asking for directions to anywhere. I did not even know where I was supposed to be. I began to pray, knowing that I was completely dependent upon God to work things out.
By 6:30 I was starting to get anxious about it; I was thanking God that I was the one left behind, because I was one of two people that had been there before, and therefore a little less likely to panic. But I was also asking His forgiveness, that I was not trusting enough of God to avoid being anxious. That may be a harsh judgment, but I firmly believe that if I totally trusted He would work things out, as I have seen Him do so many times before, then I should have had no anxiety, but rather a wonderment and excitement to see how He would do it. The latter would have been very appropriate.
Three Americans came walking by as I was praying, and my first thought was to say nothing, because without a hotel name or phone number, what were they going to do? Perhaps it would be better to wait for someone to realize I was missing, and come driving back to find me along the original path. But God immediately called to my mind the old joke of someone praying for help from God, turning down a car/boat/helicopter, then asking God why He did not help, to which God replied He had sent those three vehicles (the joke is funnier when told right).
Anyway, I realized from that immediate recollection that I should ask these Americans for help. They invited me to their hotel, and on the taxi ride there, I recalled the name "Lion Hotel" (I did not know that name, so it could only have come from One Place). When we got to the hotel, the front desk had never heard of it. So the Americans called their Mongolian translator, who drove out to the hotel. We looked up on a city map, and found a hotel listed as "LG Hotel". It seemed like it might fit "Lion Hotel", so we called, and they had had 22 Americans check in that morning.
However, they gave very poor directions to the hotel (turns out it was a brand new, albeit, one star, hotel), so the translator suggested she drive me there, rather than sending me in a taxi. She had to call three times en route, before finally getting me to the hotel 5 minutes before the group returned from dinner, having decided (once they realized I was missing), that I probably had just taken a taxi back to the hotel on my own.
What a great lesson God had taught me. Hopefully, next time I will fully trust in Him.
"My trip to Mongolia was truly a God-focused adventure for me, but far too much to put in a Christmas letter. There was truly a lesson every day for me. For example, the first day in country, we were in the capital city Ulaanbaatar. We flew in, quickly checked into our hotel, then went out as a group (22 of us in 3 microbuses) to see the Museum of Mongolian History. The microbuses left, scheduled to come back to pick us up at 4:45. We got out of the museum at 3:45, and with an hour to kill, the group decided to walk in the big city square down the block.
My knee was hurting (I had some torn cartilage), so I stated (apparently to no one) that I would wait at the museum for the buses. I knew I had been left behind when 5:30 rolled around, and not one person had returned, nor the buses. The microbuses apparently saw the group over on the square, picked them up there, and with 22 strangers in 3 buses, no one realized that one person was missing. And they did not realize it until 8:30 that night, as they were finishing dinner.
When I began to suspect by 5:30 that I had been left behind, the sun was setting, it was cold (about 15 degrees F), and I was in a city of 750,000 speaking a language I knew all of 3 words (thank you, hello, and yes). I did not know the name of our hotel, and I had no phone numbers to call. I had no way of contacting anyone I knew in that city, or of asking for directions to anywhere. I did not even know where I was supposed to be. I began to pray, knowing that I was completely dependent upon God to work things out.
By 6:30 I was starting to get anxious about it; I was thanking God that I was the one left behind, because I was one of two people that had been there before, and therefore a little less likely to panic. But I was also asking His forgiveness, that I was not trusting enough of God to avoid being anxious. That may be a harsh judgment, but I firmly believe that if I totally trusted He would work things out, as I have seen Him do so many times before, then I should have had no anxiety, but rather a wonderment and excitement to see how He would do it. The latter would have been very appropriate.
Three Americans came walking by as I was praying, and my first thought was to say nothing, because without a hotel name or phone number, what were they going to do? Perhaps it would be better to wait for someone to realize I was missing, and come driving back to find me along the original path. But God immediately called to my mind the old joke of someone praying for help from God, turning down a car/boat/helicopter, then asking God why He did not help, to which God replied He had sent those three vehicles (the joke is funnier when told right).
Anyway, I realized from that immediate recollection that I should ask these Americans for help. They invited me to their hotel, and on the taxi ride there, I recalled the name "Lion Hotel" (I did not know that name, so it could only have come from One Place). When we got to the hotel, the front desk had never heard of it. So the Americans called their Mongolian translator, who drove out to the hotel. We looked up on a city map, and found a hotel listed as "LG Hotel". It seemed like it might fit "Lion Hotel", so we called, and they had had 22 Americans check in that morning.
However, they gave very poor directions to the hotel (turns out it was a brand new, albeit, one star, hotel), so the translator suggested she drive me there, rather than sending me in a taxi. She had to call three times en route, before finally getting me to the hotel 5 minutes before the group returned from dinner, having decided (once they realized I was missing), that I probably had just taken a taxi back to the hotel on my own.
What a great lesson God had taught me. Hopefully, next time I will fully trust in Him.
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