Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Moving and Remaining

I think I’ve made it quite clear that moving sucks. Today has seen the majority of heavy goods moved from the old to the new. By today I include this late hour at which there’s still some bedding and drawer material to come.

Something happened in the moving process this evening that reminded me of so much of what makes moving what it is. There’s this huge box that we’re precariously carrying upstairs on the orders of the lady of the house and one false move means that the CD cabinet that was perched at the top of the box came tumbling down and with it came the clattering smash of tens of CD’s and the end of some CD cases. I couldn’t be bothered to check on the status of the CD collection – at this hour of night methodical precise note taking is not high up on the priority list. Thankfully I had long since done without CD’s anyway choosing just to download the tracks straight onto the hard-drive of the computer and listen to them from there. Yet it was still sad looking at the shattered pieces and broken cases that represented serious cash investments in their contents.

I looked on and thought to myself imagine all that money spent on something that could so easily be wiped away in an accident. All that effort, all those memories gone just like that. Then it got me thinking that life similarly is that precious and that fragile, so that however robust it may appear and durable there is an appointed time when one minute it’s there and the next it returns to the dust from which it came. So what’s the point, I thought. Well, the point of it all is to remind me of investing in things of eternal value. That doesn’t of course mean stop buying music CD’s. (Although funnily enough I haven’t bought a CD in years!) It does mean that whatever attachment and devotion is given to whatever we purchase or invest in has to be seriously considered in the light of eternity. If it is just a cheap, simple thing of little worth, then there is little point in investing in it. Yet if it is of value, if it is worth its weight in something far more costly than gold, then surely it is worth our pursuit, it is worth treasuring and holding dear.

In some cases such is its worth that careful attention to it will see that it has the capacity to last the test of time – and by test, I really do mean test. Further diligent attention will go on to show that not only will it last but it will continue to give more and more worth to ourselves and joy. Then from there other investments pale into insignificance in the light of that which is of eternal value.

I remember the time when I thought I’d lost almost ten years of hard work when my computer broke down with a possibly irreparable hard-drive. I remember the feeling of almost despair I had and then remembering Jesus. I recall a steady growing determination that said that actually knowing Jesus despite that significant loss, was of greater importance that made the loss shown in a different light. I have had times when I’ve almost lost my family, I’ve lost my job (on more than one occasion), I’ve lost my possibility of completing academic assignments, I’ve almost lost my life. In all this that which is of eternal value – Jesus Christ Himself – has remained ever present, ever loving, ever caring, ever gracious, ever patient, ever encouraging. It thus makes sense to have that desire to know Him more and find contentment, peace, identity, joy and stability in Him – even in trying times of transition.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Trusting God's Plan for Your Life

I came across Shawn Boonstra and the It Is Written ministry whilst in Jamaica. It is one of the few beautiful things that came from the time over there. I had finally succumbed to watching television after a number of days being above it all and focussing on going through my reading material. With the range of channels on offer through the cable package that was present I came across a plethora of trash. Among that were almost a dozen Christian channels again of varying levels of mediocrity. There were at least two from the Adventist stream, 3ABN and another one that escapes me. On one of them Shawn Boonstra came on and confidently presented an aspect of faith and the gospel in a clear and compelling manner. The whole ministry was fascinating and I was suitably impressed by the quality of material both in presentation and content.

To see that he has a web-presence on YouTube was a delight and I look to his format as a guide and model to shape what kind of stuff I would look to develop in line with a number of ideas that are buzzing around me head at present.

In the meantime check out the stuff for yourself and see how he weaves in history, contemporary issues, global and personal affairs all intertwined with the words of Daniel. Quality stuff – enjoy.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

The Not So Little Hobo Keeps Moving On

Memories of television programmes are a blessing and a curse. It’s a curse in the sense that surely I should be able to remember something that was worth something to someone. It’s a blessing in the sense that I’m able to remember something was worth something to me. I’ve got to find out whatever happened to Terry Bush. He’s the fella responsible for the classic theme tune to The Littlest Hobo. That theme along with the Lonely Man theme linked to television series The Incredible Hulk, has really bugged me for at least the ten years.

So anyway I had some days of vacation outstanding before the end of the year (April to March) so I was excited to take a couple of days last week and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of the week just gone to spend some quality time getting things straight in my head about what I wanted to get done in life. Tragically the two days were spent overcoming illness and then these three days have been spend helping my wife get over illness as well as preparing for a move. So not at all as I’d hoped, but that’s typical dmcd – make a plan, get excited about plan, plan no work out, and get to learn new stuff about God whilst grumbling about plan not working in
classic Muttley fashion.

I’ve
talked about moving before, but just to reiterate I hate moving. I like being settled in one place for an extended period of time. I’m sure you could psychoanalyse it from the trauma of moving from the first home of Minerva Way to Albert Road and going from sun shining days at the back to grim days along Mill Road. Whatever you want to put it down to there’s a distinct element of ‘oh no I have to pack up all the stuff and lug them into a suitable transport and then unpack them’ syndrome. Although my Dad showed me the ‘just-in-case’ mentality that ensures I don’t leave the house without at least a notepad and pen or a book of some sort to keep me occupied, he also showed me the concept of travelling lightly. I’m sure when they were packing to resettle in Jamaica it would have taken my Mum a day or so and it would have taken Dad half an hour. With all the moving I’ve been doing in the last ten years I often wish that I could be in Dad’s position.

So what’s the reason for this the umpteenth move? First it’s worth reminding yourself of my feelings on
moving which also gives a history of the travails of dmcd. So here I am settled in Stoke (the area called Stoke, not the city in general which is referred to as Stoke-on-Trent) for nearly two years. I haven’t resided in the same location for two years since leaving home, so it was looking to be a time of celebration, perhaps I had settled. Perhaps this was it. We were comfortable with where we were, it was convenient for Deborah’s school, the location provided outlets for community engagement and it was brisk stroll to wherever I needed to get to. It was almost ideal in every way and so I was looking forward to finally settling in a property to bring up children in a settled environment and set my roots in a place. If you’ve been keeping up with my life, though, you’ll know that just when you think it’s safe to settle up pops another issue. So up it popped and having popped the only response was to take advantage of the new opportunity that arose and that called for moving! So before April begins we’ll be resettled in the tenth move I’ve made since moving up to Stoke-on-Trent almost ten years ago.

Again it’s a great opportunity to swallow stuff and reaffirm that I am only ever settled in my relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Through all the changing issues of life, changes in relationships, changes in social circumstances, changes in style and weight, I am only ever content in knowing Christ and being known by Him.

I am as ever in desperate need of your prayers (or positive thoughts if you cannot stretch that far). This is a good move for us in a number of ways despite the sadness of leaving this locality. I’m trusting to carry across some of the lessons learnt from the 20 months we’ve spent here in the area. With every move there’s been improvement in community engagement and I want that to continue where we go next. I also want our family to settle well in the area and to be a beacon to our area of the ups and downs, joys and challenges of family life in Christ. You should get the impression that if it was left up to me we would be moving to stay for at least five years so we can try this thing called laying down roots as our children blossom and we look for some sort of stability. Yet in as much as that’s the desire of my heart I don’t want to allow that to cloud my judgement and desire to please God first and foremost.

Maybe tomorrow I’ll try to settle down, until tomorrow
I’ll just keep moving on.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Friday, March 27, 2009

Never Shall Forget - John P. Kee

It’s just been one of those nights where I’ve come across so many classic tunes it’s been an effort to keep track of them. Almost as though they’ve started popping up all over YouTube. I am not complaining at all as they have been a great support for me during this prayer season and I’m grateful to God for them. This is a fun track featuring JPK and it’s cool getting this as if there are JPK analysts they would agree this sums up a lot of the styles and techniques that he employs in his choir set-up and good for him to apply the adage if it’s not bust no need to fix it. Enjoy.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd

The Lord Is Able - John P. Kee

Some of the classic hymns we hold dear to our hearts were lambasted out of the church because of their familiarity to pub classics. Ever since that bygone time Christian musicians have asked the question why should the devil have all the best music. Some folks go as far as to say there’s no such divide as Christian and secular music but it’s all an expression of the immense creativity of God. Quite a lot to consider right there, eh? I don’t necessarily buy it all I’d find some expressions of music difficult to reconcile with the God who makes Himself known in Scripture and by His Spirit. What is cool to get a hold of though is to see music redeemed to glorify God and this is a great example of that. Then whilst you’re digging the James Brown tribute he goes all classic churchy on us! Gotta love JPK! Enjoy.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Grateful by John P. Kee

Thanks. Simple word and full of more meaning than its letters allows. I do believe the more thankful we are the less likely we are to complain and see negatives. Indeed I see a direct correlation between an attitude of thanksgiving and an ability to rest and see God in even the direst circumstances. Knowing that faith in God requires relieving myself of the management of the universe means that I know that I can trust Him and depend on Him to have the best in mind. With the ever present symbol of the Cross ever before me I know that His promises are true. So what else is there for me to say other than thanks and this song by JPK sums that up wonderfully well. Enjoy.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Jim Reeves Have Thine Own Way Lord

Old school, eh? Back in the day you wouldn't see me anywhere near a song like this sung like this. This kind of song was for the old folks - me mops and pops - Uncle Joe and Aunty Lyn. That kind of old fogey could appreciate the refined taste of yester-year.

Thank God for deliverance, eh? Don't get me wrong, I'm not a Jim Reeves fan or anything, but there is something to respect, admire and enjoy about this kind of reflective music and especially the content of complete submission to God to be doing the bulk work in this life business that is compelling and convincing and not always as clear in some more contemporary efforts.

So this is for you Mum and Dad, thanks for showing me the importance of letting God having His own way in my life and I trust you will know that your seed sown so diligently in years of hard slog is bearing fruit in a young man with a young family endeavouring to let the Lord have His way in our lives. Enjoy.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Friday, March 20, 2009

Balamory, Suzie Sweet, Keith Floyd and our Heavenly Father

Some things happen in life to assure me that God speaks and that Jesus is coming soon. This morning was a time for one of those things.

I am becoming more and more convinced that children’s television is a device used to infiltrate the minds of the impressionable and sow things into them of a subversive nature. Sometimes the subversion is good, sometimes the subversion is just weird. Take, for example
Balamory. If I haven’t informed you before this programme has the temerity to be pitched to my two and four year old daughters and yet have elements in them that would only make sense to someone far older. They have some songs attached so some characters that mark them out clearly for a notable aspect of who they are and what they can do – whether it’s Josie Jump’s athleticism or PC Plum’s dogged determination to find the clues to solve the case in serving his community.

This morning, however, for the first time I came across Susie Sweet’s particular niche - she is as a cook. Nothing wrong with that you may think, but then all of a sudden on my television screen I get this 50-plus year old woman coming across with some hip-hop hybrid of a track explaining how she’s good at cooking and not only that but there’s a significant cameo appearance from
Keith Floyd cook extraordinaire who is most frequently associated to his indulgence in wine. (A good time to be reminded of Proverbs 20:1 in word and music, eh?) Just see it for yourself! Well check all of the subliminal and subversive messages being relayed to my daughters there! Thankfully they had already been shipped out to their educational locations for the day, so it was just me watching aghast in bafflement and bemusement.

It was so bizarre. I mean the one that they do for PC Plum is such a
spot on spoof of Bohemian Rhapsody it’s untrue and that already got me thinking that they really are pushing the boat out on these children’s programmes to get some things in their head. If you don’t believe me, you check Deborah (the four year-old) out on a good day and the ability to nail on mimic the songs she sees on the television is unerring. And if that’s the songs, you can consider the messages that are already being relayed. There is a reason why I can still remember the theme tune to Button Moon you know!

Thankfully my heavenly Father did not just want me to spot the subversive tendencies of an abnormally cohesive multi-cultural island located presumably in Scotland.
Spencer is the (token) black American guy who’s an artist/musician and all that and on today’s episode it wasn’t a day when the people were at school and work, but one of those play days that sees Miss Hoolie do a musical number with top hat and tails and the works. So as part of the fun day away, Spencer was supposed to be organising things and he didn’t. Thankfully Edith was able to sort out the transport side of things and Susie – for it is she – was able to sort out the … yes you’ve guessed it, the cooking side of things (sans alcoholic beverages supplied by contacts of Mr. K. Floyd … well none that were shown anyway, I’m sure afterwards the crew perhaps needed to get plastered to recover from such a weird episode).

So in all of that, the lesson learnt again was the importance of being organised and in doing so recognising that it takes the best of others to ensure things get organised. We cannot do it alone, getting the job done takes a team and ensuring you can depend on them to help out at any occasion. In my case, for example, I am blessed with a supportive family and relational network that means when I’m feeling low and run down with a heavy cold working its way off my chest through vigorous coughing and the bringing up of phlegm (you’re welcome), there are a loving group of people taking it easy with me and likewise prayerfully supporting through this time with words of assurance and healing. Plus as today’s LJN highlights there are
other lessons to be learnt in the experience. There you go, clear proof that a loving heavenly Father who yearns to save us all and lift us from the fall communicates these intentions even through Balamory.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd


A Better Way to Live - Proverbs 20:1

Wow - if I made connections like this it would make going through Proverbs even more creative fun.

So today I was looking at the chapter and reflecting on this verse in the light of a seminar I went to on alcohol that only went to prove that the benefits of the product are far overwhelmed by the deficits.

I'm not against alcohol, but if it means saving people from stupidity then I'd rather go without.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Something Up With DMCD

What is up with the da man cd?

I have not been that prolific recently with blog posts on this site although things are trundling along well with Among Friends (
old and new) and I’ve been able to recently update LJN following a few days out of the loop. At present however I am taking time off from work.

Today I was scheduled to be doing some other work, but since Monday or Tuesday I was coming down with heavy cold and it’s only fitting that I should. Having encouraged others to take time off and not to work themselves to a frazzle I find myself in need of taking my own advice.

There is a lot of exciting things happening, there is a lot of hard work ahead. There are some crucial decisions to be made and some activities to take part in that will stretch and enhance my faith in Christ. It is exciting times, but it won’t mean a thing if I’m not healthy enough to enjoy it. My sleeping and eating habits of late have been atrocious as the workload has increased and it’s just not good enough.

So I’m hoping to use the time off to recover some much needed rest and reflection to set myself aright for the busy season ahead. I am taking it easy – I won’t be taking any phone calls today unless it’s an emergency. I won’t even Twitter or Facebook today (other than to link to this explanation). I’ll probably check my email tomorrow as well.

This is all to say that for today at least I’m focussing on just chilling and doing the absolute minimum. I do feel run down and the heavy cold contributes to that. I am not indispensable; the world will carry on just fine without me. More importantly I serve a God of rest as well as creativity and so it’s only right that I should take His advice and find rest for my soul in Him.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

The Terror By Day

If I didn’t post a blog entry I think I’d explode.

The more I think of it, the more I know the word is a crucial part of my make-up. Word-read, word-seen, word-taught and word-written are an integral part of who I am in the same way that images and capturing them is crucial to artists and photographers and sounds are crucial to musicians. The word-read is me at my most natural, but leading from that the word-written is the most effective product of that process. It’s like breathing in and out – it doesn’t make sense reading so much if I don’t get to write at least some of what is entering me.

Today I continued the reading of the
Tony Blair biography by Anthony Seldon. I have found the journey of reading it highly illuminative, not only in getting an insight on the man, but also getting a greater appreciation for what it takes to lead and how as things change then so do our needs and necessarily the nature of relationships.

On my way back from tonight’s Men’s Meeting I was reading about the impact of 9/11 on Blair’s premiership. It got me thinking of that contentious and explosive word ‘terrorism’. How would I cope if I felt I was being unfairly treated and the powers that be were ignoring me? How would I respond to a state of such injustice that my very humanity is being undermined and disparaged? What acts could I possibly take if I feel like my entire way of life is being patronised, demonised or otherwise disrespected?

I was reflecting on the fact that the call to follow Christ is necessarily one of rejection and persecution – why don’t we hear that more often? As such though, those feelings of neglect, demonization and ridicule should be a part of the fabric of belief and a peace-making response should be up my sleeve – which it is by some of the writings of Paul who calls for us to fight spiritual warfare with the whole armour of God which is rooted in faith in the ministry of the ultimate rejected one and expression of His character of grace, truth, compassion and mercy. That’s a radical response to take and open to much criticism for hardly being aggressive enough to meet the challenges of the forces that oppose us.

Which brings me naturally back to the initial questions and how, without a frame of reference like radical Christianity, such states of being can be resolved? I cannot talk from a position of expertise on the issues surrounding what led up to 9/11 and the various forces involved. What I can say though is that the narrative that has been spun since depicting the forces of good and evil is never that straightforward. The reasons behind the ‘just war’ thinking is not that clear or convincing, especially when the hypocrisy of liberal democratic capitalistic systems are enlightened for the materialistic idolatries that they are in many cases.

So what am I saying, am I saying that 9/11 is justifiable and due recompense for the evil taking place in US? Not at all – all I am saying is that considering the word ‘terrorism’ triggered off these thoughts in me head about what we do when we are suppressed and oppressed and marginalised by a juggernaut of a way of life which on the surface promotes tolerance and pluralism, but actually implicitly is intolerant of systems that don’t accept their values. Oh how great the challenge of radical Christian peace-making becomes in these times.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Not So Seeker-Sensitive After All

I'm not ruling out the possibility of some of my colleagues having a point on their perspective when it comes to this issue. I just want to know how they can genuinely respond to the biblically based views reflected in this video. I'm really interested because I want to be faithful rather than just follow something because it sounds good.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

All Our Righteousnesses Are As Filthy Rags.

This is a good presentation that I could have used for the session on the Fall of Humanity.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Share Those Fwench Fwies, Children.

I love the way that this presentation is put across it really puts the issue of grace into its true perspective from such a homely basis. Enjoy.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Friday, March 13, 2009

Gaithers - And Could It Be That I Should Gain

I love this little tune. Enjoy.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Thursday, March 12, 2009

See What's Going On Over There

Just to let you know that things are going swimmingly in the family Dryden. I am incredibly busy, but hope for a little respite in the next week or so.

Really just here to point you to the Among Friends site to
engage in the conversation that’s going on over there about morality, righteousness and current events. Please let me know what you reckon.

For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Mark Lowry Recovering Fundamentalist

This is why Mark Lowry is such an impressive speaker - regardless of where you stand on whether you agree with his points or not.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

The Victor (live) by Keith Green

This is such a brilliant song and a joyous, exubrant and passionate rendition by Keith that I had to post this to compliment his name-sake's effort.

Here are the lyrics to this awesome song.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

The Victor (as sung by Keith Green)

Swallowed into earth's dark womb
Death has triumphed
That's what they say
But try to hold Him in the tomb
The Son of Life
Rose on the third day

Just look!
The gates of hell
They're falling
Crumbling from the inside out
He's bursting through
The walls with laughter (Hah!)
Listen to the Angels shout

It is finished
He has done it
Life conquered death
Jesus Christ
Has won it

His plan of battle fooled them all
They led Him off to prison to die
But as He entered Hades Hall
He broke those hellish chains with a cry

Just listen to those demons screaming
See Him bruise the serpent's head
The prisoners of Hell
He's redeeming (Oh!)
All the power of death is dead

It is finished
He has done it
Life conquered death
Jesus Christ
Has won it

Look!
The gates of hell they're falling
Crumbling from the inside out
He's bursting through the walls with laughter (Hah!)
Listen to the Angels shout
(Listen, oh, listen)

It is finished
He has done it
Life conquered death
Jesus Christ
Has won it

It is finished
He has done it
Life conquered death
Jesus Christ
Has won it

The Good Fight: My Current Perspective On The Struggle

But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:11, 12 ESV)

Today I took part in a training session looking at alcohol awareness. This was especially in terms of helping those who either suffer from the effects of various levels of alcohol dependence, or are affected by someone who is. It’s good to be informed about alcohol and how it affects the body and psychological damages. What was particularly fascinating about the training is how it skirts around the real issue of why people get into such a state. Listening to the comments and observations it is tragic to sort out life without a sin consciousness and as a result God-consciousness. Without that we are left with will-power or cycles of change that does not bring about real change but give glimmers of hope without substance.

It’s not surprising because yet again we are separating things and thinking that mental schemes or behavioural changes will bring lasting result. The issue for a Christian is that all of these issues we face are external symptoms of an inner problem. That problem namely is rebellion against God and subjection to the other guy. As worshipping beings dependence is inevitable. Natural predispositions to oppose God leaves us open to oppression and depression by other sources. How can we possibly expect to enjoy a fulfilling life without guidance from the one who gave it to us?

This question is all the more pronounced for the Christian … for me. Knowing what I know leaves me with the challenge to take on board Paul’s words to Timmy and pursue what it is to do and be everything pleasing to God which is particularly by being like Him in character. As one or two other followers of Christ may have gathered, this is often easier said than done – but not impossible.

I am not an aggressive person. I can be manipulative; I can be awkward and obscure. I can be pedantic on semantics. In terms of physically aggressive exerting what advantage I may have in that sense is fairly alien to me. I can be sharp but not in a physical sense. Growing up at home I was rather soft comparatively and resorted to the cerebral for contentment. So talk of warfare, battle and struggle can at times be at odds with my natural predisposition.

Gradually over the years, however, I’ve recognised that these concepts are only too real for me and I must get used to it until Christ is fully formed in me. Even reviewing the Beatitudes and noting the one linked to recognition as God’s heirs, it is implicit in the concept of peace-making that the predominant environment is not peaceful (or even peace-some). In fact it’s pretty clear that the predominant environment is not naturally ordered around theocentric dynamics for peace, hence the delight of God’s children to make it wherever they are internally and externally.

Yet this is a very real call to battle. It takes war to make peace even as it took death to bring life. The difference of course being that as Paul put it, the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty to the bringing down of strongholds (the very ramparts that prevent peace) which connect to the reality expressed in another Pauline epistle that we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities and spiritual wickedness in high places. Where do you think the current rule and systems are imposed and reinforced? 10 Downing Street? The White House? Do me a favour and check the first two chapters of Job. The war is real and comes straight from some serious spiritual foes and is evident through sin, something that the Christian is constantly battling with.

The worst aspect of sin is what it says about the relationship with God and belief in who He is, who we are in the light of who He is and how we now can live free because He is. It’s all the more jarring because intimacy with Him through prayer and walking His way by wisdom should see us making progress. What it only highlights though is the utter depravity of humanity and wonder of salvation that allows me to live by grace through faith.

The solution comes with the problem. Without condoning or minimising sin, swift confession repentance can be used to draw us more towards a complete dependence on His grace. That confession is both negative (I have sinned) and positive (as Lord you cleanse) and is crucial to the cleansing and healing process. Not only are we cleansed but we are reminded and reconnected to the power that allows us live above sin.

I see the struggle in prayer meetings where people can be vulnerable and share honestly what prayers they want for their own lives. It’s not about being nosey or looking for material for the grapevine. It is about sharing the compassion of Christ to see people walk in the freedom with which Christ has set them free. That distinctive freedom needs to be constantly reinforced and establish a focus for what we do, or it is so tragic to see beautiful, gifted members of the Body of Christ fritter away their potential under issues that comparative to the Kingdom are inconsequential. It is summed up in the song Let Freedom Ring to which I’ve referred to in the post noted.

This is why ‘The Victor’ is such an important song. It reminds us that victory – real freedom – is not found in man-centred cycles of change but is found in the One who defeated death and the grave itself and through Whom we can now have access to the Father for grace and mercy in our time of need. We may have dead situations, but if the same Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead lives in us, we know that no set-back will prevent us from rising to new life in Him as long as we keep out trust, confidence, hope in Him alone. That’s a good fight worth persevering in.

Every child of God can defeat the world, and our faith is what gives us this victory. (1 John 5:4 CEV)

(This entry was inspired by a lot of personal events today, but was also hugely inspired by reading this article about what the warfare against sin can look like. Thanks to Jonathan Leeman for posting it and confirming something that I felt compelled to share.)

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Proverbs 9: Check The Substance Not Just The Package

Whoever is simple, let him turn in here (Proverbs 9:4, 16)

Before I let you loose on my extended thoughts for today I just want to share something that I only noticed today about the portrayals of wisdom and folly in Proverbs 9.

Verses 4 and 16 have both women giving the same opening lines. Wisdom and foolishness are not always easily assessed on their cover packages. What needs to take place is a thorough check of the substance and sometimes doing that will uncover the truth of the offers. Solomon has done us the great favour of actually laying out for us the obvious virtues of time spent with wisdom and the demise that awaits those who go down the road of foolishness.

The key in this chapter as in life is not to just take things on the surface, but to consider it carefully.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Monday, March 09, 2009

The Victor by Steve Green

This is the first version of a song of huge importance to me at the moment done by a dude for whom I have a great deal of respect and admiration.

The second version to pop up soon similarly garners a great deal of respect from me and shares something else with Steve.

More to come soon - enjoy for the meantime!

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Gaither Vocal Band - I'm Gonna Sing

Just a quick one to say this song is so appropo for me at present - more on that later on and expect at least another YouTube post of significant proportions to me at present and a fuller post explaining what it's all about before the clock chimes midnight towards the legal new day. In the meantime enjoy this offering from the good ol' GVB of the Penrod, Phelps, Taff and Gaither formation.

Shalom
dmcd

Prayer Point Update

Just a quick note to let you know I love blogging and missed having been busy of late with the first weekend of some new initiatives at church. I am doing a bit more on Twitter these days and have been able to record some of the church events there. Some challenging things have been brought up recently that I need to act on which will hopefully lead to me fulfilling some exciting developments. Keep praying for me.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Thursday, March 05, 2009

Keith Green - Enthusiastic Evangelist

Sticking with Keith for a minute, I'm really impressed with how he keeps it together in this interview to just share what God has done through Him and the message he now shares with young people about what it means to follow Jesus in believing in the good news. Not easy under these circumstances, but another example of why I am a product of his legacy in the rabid pursuit of Christ and taking up the cross to do so.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Keith Green - Your Love Broke Through

Keith Green. One of the biggest influences especially in the formative stages of knowing Jesus Christ. His passion, his commitment, his vulnerability, his journey, his biography has never failed to challenge me about my commitment to Christ. Whenever I feel confident or teeter on complacency and I hear him I am immediately brought back to earth.

I've just had a kind of harrowing day with a lot of pressure, but God has seen me through it safely and the reminder of what God's love is like - in terms of breaking through my reverie and deception - empowers and motivates me to do stuff in gratitude to him. This is why it's such a privilege to post this entry in thanks to the memory of god's blessing on me through the ministry of Keith Green.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Tuesday, March 03, 2009

Blog Notes and Reader Reflections

Here are some things I’ve noted from what I’ve seen around the web today.

In the season of leadership it’s refreshing to see
this particular approach in the classic I don’t want to tell you something that I am going to tell you so I am going to tell you.

This is a good message for those who
take bible reading lightly. I am obviously in complete agreement to the findings.

Tim Chester finds the time to lead a church, lead a family, blog regularly and
write another book. So you see what I’m aiming for, eh? Well at least in terms of writing a book … and blogging regularly.

So we’re looking to be a church in the city, but what about the church of the city. Of course I’m talking more than a single denomination or expression dominating things. I’m talking about engaging with the conversation that Alan talks about here with the
trans-congregational church. Along with the multi-cultural community of grace this is a pursuit worth going on in as much as it can be explored.

The Simple Pastor has an interesting web-site because he’s managed to get it to do quite a lot of things for a blogger account. He also asks
the intriguing question of the blogs followed with something like Google Reader. So it’s worth making a record of what I read:

6 News feeds – five are from BBC News
29 Missional Feeds – some overlap between them (i.e. Driscoll, Mars Hill and Resurgence)
13 Media Feeds
54 Gospel Feeds
42 Football Feeds – including some overlap like Sky Sports and BBC Football
24 Church Feeds

Giving a total of 168 feeds. Reminds me of the episodes of how many hours of television we watch in a week. I obviously skim over most of the blog entries, but tend to make a note and link to outstanding entries.

Being still relatively new to it I’m not on top of the blog sorting yet. When I was younger so much younger than today and didn’t need anybody’s help in anyway it turned out that I could do with quite a bit of help actually. Our English class did an exercise where we all calculated how many hours of television was viewed in a week. Various answers came from the friends around me – 12, 7, 6, 5, one person obviously didn’t have a television and then there was the spectacular 20 hours. Mug that I was and a sad one at that (in hindsight) I had noting better to do with my time and so having calculated it on a number of occasions it came up the same answer. I watched 36 hours of television a week. Unsurprisingly I’m not so much of a big fan of television these days and have got it under control to a large degree. Obviously this is because of the advent of the Internet, laptop and Google Reader which now takes up a considerable part of my time. I’m currently subscribed to 168 feeds ranging from topics like media, gospel, football, church, news and mission.

For all that, what prevents me from being glued to the laptop catching up on the latest from Mark Driscoll, Marvel Comics, John Piper, Liverpool Football Club, Dave Bish, Dr. Who, Adrian Warnock, BBC News, Prodigal Jon and The Simple Pastor, et. al. is that I have a wife who needs a husband, children who need a father, a church that needs a brother, an employer who needs an employee and a Saviour that calls me to follow Him. So there are good checks and balances in place to let me know when I get over the top and is always willing to bring me back to some of the other valuable investments in my life. Living life to the full for me includes catching up on why Liverpool won’t win the league and how amazing the love and grace of the Father is to me online. It also includes sharing this life to the full with others in the flesh and sharing some of the findings online with human touch relationships. It’s by no means a perfect balance as yet, but I sometimes reflect on how pointless it would be to have godly men positively influencing me to follow Christ only to idolise a gift given to benefit the process of following Christ. So I try to keep a good measure on things – but that’s the whole reason why I endeavour to seek God’s wisdom to give me a good balance in life.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Proverbs 3 - The Wonders of Wisdom in Women

Here are some brief notes through the chapter

Verses 1-4 – Reiteration of the need to retain at the deepest core of our being the wise instructions of the father to benefit from life.

Verses 5-8 – The basis of the advice is complete dependence on God with 100% focus on Him and His way so as to ensure health is a reality for us all over.

Verse 9, 10 – Expressing that trust and dependence by giving Him the very best of what we have accrued and thus ensuring the reciprocation and multiplication principle.

Verses 11, 12 – This is a theme that would be repeated in Hebrews that discipline is not something to be bitter about, but should be recognised for what it is, the heartfelt expressing of compassion and care for the child that only a loving Father can express.

Verses 13-18 – Lady Wisdom highlighted as someone to doggedly chase after more than anything else because of that which she has to offer which is priceless in value

Verses 19, 20 – The vaunted position of Lady Wisdom saw her at the very creation shaping that which is.

Verse 21-26 – Due acknowledgement and acceptance of this track record will stop sleepless nights and assure safe journeys in the right direction

Verses 27-31 – Due acknowledgement also wards you away from the negative behaviour and influences that can steer you away from doing good towards a more devious approach

Verse 32-35 – The summary points again bears out how God will sort out those who seek Him but will devastatingly sort out those who go the other way. The phrase ‘the devious person is an abomination to the Lord’ had me thinking about what else was an abomination to Him. It also had me reflecting on God’s grace to me because I would be classed in that category before. Thank God for Jesus and the life that comes through Him.

And here are some expanded thoughts.

I have admired women since I could admire anything. The significant figures in my upbringing were mostly women. The dominant characters in my upbringing were mostly women. My mother and sister played critical parts in my formative years. When I got a rebuff from the first approach I made to a girl at the age of 12, the rejection set so deeply that I never asked another girl out until the woman that turned out to be my wife almost ten years later.

In the interim period the fail-safe mechanism meant that I could approach friendships with women free from any fanciful notions that it could be anything more than friends and that meant I could spend time just listening to them and expressing admiration and encouragement to them. That meant a lot of time was spent looking for and celebrating admirable qualities in women.

I’m not saying I was completely pure especially in the troublesome later years where certain incidents led to certain undesirable experiences. Yet for all those experiences my stance with engaging with women was as much as possible respectful and courteous. My dad had a similar charming approach to women which made him easy in their company whilst remaining secure in his marriage. When he left Wellingborough and England the sadness in the church sisters was palpable – a great testimony in itself to the integrity and compassionate service he gave to his church community. I’ve endeavoured to take a leaf from his book in that regard.

These thoughts spring to mind when I particular reflect on Proverbs 3:11-18. In was just looking at the depiction of wisdom as a lady. Here she is far more precious than anything material and whose benefits are so enriching they are worth pursuing wholeheartedly for the rest of life’s days. I can testify that in the short time I’ve been married (five and a half years) the best times have come when I’ve sought to pursue Authrine as the precious person she is and the positive Christ-like qualities that shine through her. When that happens, the pleasantness and peace associated with wisdom herself are real benefits that I receive.

Not in anyway deifying my wife to the status of wisdom incarnate, but recognising that I benefit when I see her as someone embodying wisdom herself in her connection with Christ. This takes the desire and attraction to her from the physical and heightens it to the spiritual. When she practices this more often through encouragement good things ensue. This beats viewing and treating women as objects of lust or caterers of various menial pleasures.

I am blessed to get on with a number of women and I see this in them and for those who are single it is a crying shame that men miss these qualities and they search the elusive all-inclusive package not appreciating that when you can identify and celebrate these qualities as well as pursue them faithfully and honourably then they can benefit in ways beyond their comprehension.

This pursuit of course goes beyond the relationships between men and women and extends to the human pursuit for real life. If they only moved away from the material and sought after the eternal it would so enrich their appreciation of the material whilst treating these as lightly as they should be.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Monday, March 02, 2009

Proverbs 2, Sir Fred Goodwin and the Devil’s Dilemma

Here is just a thought about the Sir Fred Goodwin situation.

I still think it is absolutely ridiculous that a man responsible for leading a bank as it spiralled out of control to the point of having to be taken over by the government gets a whopping huge pension. That is morally wrong. However, if those are the terms of the contractual arrangement that has been made, who can justifiably intervene in that case? Can the government really back up their case of forcing the brother to hand back the money? Is that even right?

The concern I have is that this could set a dangerous precedent based on the government taking it upon themselves to selectively be the moral arbitrator in such situations. The danger of that is who are the government to behave in such a manner? That’s why if there are issues with the exorbitant amount fat cats get it should be addressed by the proper structures within the company and the culture of the business world that allows such excesses to happen in the first place.

I am not convinced that there is any way in which the government can sort an issue without addressing the root of the problems. It appears to me that this is the case and because the heart of the matter is not being addressed or even being seen to be addressed then this witch-hunt of Goodwin is another cynical political ploy to win political points. That’s just a thought. (I write this note later because it so happens that I come across
this article which would make it appear as though Mr. Brown is back-tracking somewhat.)

Today is Proverbs 2 and I’m fascinated by the opening rejoinder by the writer. I was reading the ESV and noted the following:

Verses 1-4: Receive words; treasure commandments; making ear attentive; inkling heart; call out; raise voice; seek like silver; search as for hidden treasure. The quest for wisdom knowledge and understanding has to be taken very seriously indeed.

Verses 5-8: Benefit A of the quest – fear and knowledge of God; He is the source of wisdom, knowledge and understanding; it’s all there waiting for those who want it and protecting those who follow it

Verse 9-11: Key life values (righteousness, justice, equity (I wonder what this word is meant to mean), right direction) understood properly as you get them and enjoy them and their protection

Verse 12-15: The protective mechanisms are put in the light of the various predators that would seek to dismantle the individual – like those who neglect these ways and promote opposing values.

Verse 16-19: The protection given by wisdom is highlighted against the adulteress whose ways are so bad that whoever is ensnared in her ways are doomed.

Verse 20-22: Like Psalm 1 this is a summary point of the benefit of following wisdom when we really pursue it and the devastating end of those who oppose it.

Finally for the blog today here is a marvellous portrayal of the
devil’s dilemma.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

The Lord's Prayer

I can't say I'm always focussed on the task at hand. Sometimes I am distracted and put off by other concerns and pressing matters that seem to dominate. That's why prayer is so important to me - as conversation with God and actively engaging in a way that allows me to clear all the clutter and just focus on Him. This significant prayer puts everything into its perspective and reflects love for God and others as the vital foundation on which life is based for the glory of His great name and to see His kingdom come.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd

Sunday, March 01, 2009

How Can I Manage?

I’ll probably be in a better position to give a review of February after tomorrow, when I intend to prayerfully look back on what kind of month it’s been and the lesson learnt.

For now I want to point out the new series beginning on me other blog as well as a brief update on future developments for the blogging and other e-activities. As you would have noticed there have been one or two changes in me blogging portfolio but here are some explanations. First of all, February saw the beginning of Life Journey Notes taking over where Daily Thoughts left off.

Where Among Friends is concerned I am slowly transitioning from Blogger to WordPress. I am grateful for Blogger especially in starting me off on the whole buzz so long ago. I’ve been viewing WordPress for some time and as you know I’ve been a bit more active with the StokeCOG blog. I am impressed with what features and functions are on there and now I’m seriously considering what that could mean for the other blogs. This is a work in review and updates will be given as and when possible. There maybe some significant changes by the end of the month.

I was really pleased with the number of inputs over the month of February which built well on the start to the year in January. I trust that March will continue the theme as I intend to make the most of the opportunities to write and develop the craft.

Over on LJN I’m starting a new series based on journeying through the book after Psalms over this month. Titled March Through Proverbs every day is looking at each chapter in this book on wisdom to get just that – wisdom. Wisdom is becoming all the more critical in my life at present. I am noticing that I’m not managing everything well and feel that to be effective and productive in all aspects of my life good management is key. Good management comes from being able to know what to do and when. Being able to know what to do and when based on information at your disposal and a good understanding at any given time is a good definition of wisdom. James later on gives the assurance that if I’m lacking in wisdom then I can ask God who is only too willing to generously download a substantial portion. I need it – I’m asking for it and as life would have it God has given this opportune time to go through this book and reconnect with Him to be wise in the ways of the world.

In a world where management is a hot topic especially in the arena of my favourite sport – football – the parallels with my life are only too apparent. I have time, skills, money, relationships, responsibilities and other resources that I must use properly in order to bring out the desired outcome for the benefit of many and importantly the glory of God. I recognise some aspects could do with more prayer and more considered and proactive applications. So it won’t be just a case of writing the posts, but monitoring the different incremental changes that I go through in life to manage things better, like my time and my priorities.

My life cannot be a case of the tail wagging the dog and with various pulls on my life it can often feel the case, but a new day has dawned and the God of all wisdom is waiting to lead me to a better way of doing things.

I use this chance to mention I’m actually happy about Manchester United winning the League Cup. Neither am I surprised that Liverpool have actually lost a League match for the first time since November seriously denting their chances of winning the league and promptly being overtaken on goal difference by Chelsea. I look at the league table now and feel that it makes more sense – it’s a lot more realistic. The race for 4th place is looking interesting and I hope Aston Villa can hold on despite the recent result.

The reason why I’m happy for Manchester United is because it is only right that the best team win the trophies if they are able to do so. I’m not convinced that this United side or squad is the best in their history, but they are definitely ahead of their domestic rivals. I don’t mind if they become the first side to do the domestic treble. I doubt if they will do the quintuple, because the result against Inter actually did the Italian side a favour more than United. If they had scored an away goal they would have the upper hand. Now Inter go back and play at United, knowing they can afford to play a tight game at Old Trafford, and should they score an away goal it would put the cat amongst the pigeons. It is by no means a foregone conclusion and even if they dispatch of the Serie A leaders there are far too many quality sides still left in the competition.

Although Liverpool is seriously underachieving in the League, Rafa knows his way around the Champions League and we would pose more of a threat. As for the league, I’m not downhearted at all because it is something I was expecting. To hear Rafa talk about not scoring enough goals and that being a problem is so daft an observation by a man whose system of football and team selections and formations never convinced anyone of scoring tons of goals. We will flatter to deceive again this season because of his obstinate take on team selection.

That’s life and bad management though, and it’s for me to learn from these errors and make sure whether it’s with a team that I’m a part of or in my own private life I similarly don’t mess up in terms of making the right selections. Back round to the whole need for wisdom.

For His Name's Sake
Shalom
dmcd