I am very late in making this entry (it happened "last year" already!)...but wanted to get something on the blog regarding our "eXtreme tRaining arvo" since it went so well.
First…and most important…I want to thank God for His gracious answer to specific and extra-ordinary prayer! Those attending believe that God was really at work. It is always difficult to assess the outcome of a training session since the only real success is in applying the attitudes and skills learned, however the immediate feedback was exceptional.
On Sunday arvo (afternoon)...11 December 2005...a number of professional and elite sports personalities from the Sydney area met together to engage in "eXtreme tRaining" in how to better use their sports success as a platform for the good news message of Jesus. As far as I know there hasn’t been a training opportunity like this in Australia (cross-sport…and specifically for professional and elite sports personalities) for many years. Certainly one of the comments I heard repeated by those attending was that they had never been exposed to such specific (and helpful) training.
Our sessions included:
Back to the Basics--Identifying essentials in sports mission
Incarnation -- pre-evangelism --CJ Bruton, Sydney Kings, Boomers
Influence -- evangelism --Jason Smith, Sydney Kings, Boomers
Impact -- discipleship --Marty Wilson, NSW Waratahs
Scoring with your Testimony --Daniel Willis, Bible Society
“Mastering” the Media (Using media ops) --Glenn Daniel, Radio
Winning at all cost (How to share with others) --Gary Speckman, AIA
About 10 days out from the event we had six people confirmed. I was beginning to wonder if the December date would kill off any potential trainees. (I did receive a number of apologies from those who loved the idea, but couldn’t change competition schedules.)
As I was praying about this early one morning, the Lord really impressed me with the question, “What do you most want to see from this time?” It struck me, then, that my own primary desire was to see CJ, Jason, and Marty “presenting” mission skills and awareness to other professional and elite sports personalities. The number they actually “presented to” was not really the issue.
However, since that time the Lord brought along many others…three of them the day before the event…and one (long jumper) who arrived unexpected. Sports people numbered 12 (including 3 women)…and coaches, chaplains, and media people numbered 12…for a total of 24 in attendance
(plus a couple of volunteers).
I was personally very pleased with the initial response…and with the job done by the guys.
One participant wrote in an email early Monday morning…”gday gary…just want to let you and the fellas know that sunday was full on success. God was in charge of sunday and there are a few of us who are seeing the bigger picture of where we are going with all of this. (It) was spot on and you were really used for his purpose.”
I debriefed with Jason and CJ on the way home…and they are eager to do similar training in the future if there is enough interest expressed.
CJ was especially encouraging to me at the Kings’ training session two days later, when he said he had been sharing about the “eXtreme tRaining arvo” with his mum and she was so excited about it that she wants to meet me for coffee sometime and talk about “what’s this good thing happening to my boy?”
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
NBL All Stars Pregame Prayer
Received this as a cc to someone else regarding our inaugral official NBL pre-game prayer meeting and thought I would paste it here to "document" the event.
Just thought I'd let you know, that the first Chapel service for the All star game of the NBL was held on tuesday the 27th of December. Gary Speckman led it with each person sharing their thoughts about Christmas, then Gary led a short devotion, an opportunity for communion and a prayer time. Present were Gary and his wife, 2 players from opposing teams, the commisioner of the NBL, and myself. It was a great time, the commissioner was very encouraged saying, it will only get bigger and better, and wanted us to do a chapel service at the finals, the pre-season tournament and next years all star game, and he will put it in the schedule. Praise God for what he's doing in the Nbl this is a unique window of opportunity following on from the successful extereme sports event.
(Thanks to Darren Kingston--Chaplain of the Hunter Pirates)
Just thought I'd let you know, that the first Chapel service for the All star game of the NBL was held on tuesday the 27th of December. Gary Speckman led it with each person sharing their thoughts about Christmas, then Gary led a short devotion, an opportunity for communion and a prayer time. Present were Gary and his wife, 2 players from opposing teams, the commisioner of the NBL, and myself. It was a great time, the commissioner was very encouraged saying, it will only get bigger and better, and wanted us to do a chapel service at the finals, the pre-season tournament and next years all star game, and he will put it in the schedule. Praise God for what he's doing in the Nbl this is a unique window of opportunity following on from the successful extereme sports event.
(Thanks to Darren Kingston--Chaplain of the Hunter Pirates)
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Christmas Dinner with Three Kings
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[?]).
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[?]).
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.
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