From The Ends Of The Earth

Coming Soon...

2012-01-26T11:47:00.001-08:00

It's been far too long since I last posted. So much has happened & there's much planned.
This isn't a proper post, but simply one to say "watch this space!" There'll be a post in the near future!

All Black Nation

2011-10-13T13:06:00.001-07:00

A selection of photos taken around our rugby-obsessed country.

Manu Overboard & Slade Slayed

2011-10-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

The Rugby World Cup Quarter Finals provided some entertainment and surprise. Surprisingly, much of the entertainment came from the Northern hemisphere teams, whilst the Southern hemisphere teams played out the drab ‘Northern-style’ rugby!

The atmosphere in Wellington over the weekend was nothing short of sensational. To have four world class teams in town meant the place was abuzz. The Irish sea of green was complemented by a fair splash of gold, a good dose of red and a darker, more African shade of green. We had springboks, wallabies, leeks and shamrocks. There were hymns and arias, cockles and mussels and even Matilda was waltzing.

We had the privilege of going into town to soak up the atmosphere just prior to the Wales v Ireland game. It was fun, as fans of all teams mingled awaiting the big game. All four of us wore our Ireland shirts, and Sam and Josh (in their pushchair) used the Ulster flag as their blanket.

Walking around, we just happened to arrive outside the Irish team hotel as they were boarding their bus. A crowd of several hundred was singing, cheering and yo-ho-ing (a good Ulster word). It was one of those memorable occasions. We got to wave ourflag, and encourage the boys as they drove past us en route to the ‘Cake Tin’. It saddened me that even in NZ, we had several disparaging remarks about an Ulster flag, even being told “There’s no need for that.” Surely the Irish RFU needs to actively embrace the fact they represent “the four proud provinces of Ireland”, and do all it can to combat bigotry and prejudice. As an ‘outsider’ looking in, it does seem that Ulster boys seem under-represented in the Irish set-up. I recognise it’s not uncomplicated, but for the team to be truly an 'all-island' team, steps forward still need to be made.

On to the rugby…

Sadly, the Irish team who beat the Aussies were nowhere to be seen. The decision (3 times) to go for tries rather than the 3 points on offer came back to haunt them. A lesson learned is that points on the board can really swing momentum in a game. The Welsh, were superb. Their discipline off-field and on-field has been outstanding. Warburton, who I’d not heard much about pre-tournament has been an excellent leader. And the discipline they’ve shown off-field means they deserve to be in the Semis.

What to say about the English?! I watched them play live in three of their games. In all three, they were poor. The Quarter Final was nothing short of awful. Serious questions need to be asked of the management and leadership when players can’t survive 6 weeks or more without a drink. Some of the behaviour and attitudes shown exemplify the deep rooted problems in the RFU. It seems I, along with most others, are happy that the English were knocked out. Manu Tuilagi proved to be the best English player of the tournament, but even he jumped ship the day after their exit. If only some more of the English squad would follow suit.

From Sacre Bleu to Allez les Bleus went the French, in a way that only the French could. South Africa can only blame themselves, though they are making a good fist of blaming the ref, Bryce Lawrence. Sure, Australia didn’t deserve to win, but then neither did the Springboks against the Welsh or Samoans. Cup rugby is all about taking your chances and the final score is what counts.

And then we have the All Blacks…a seriously underwhelming performance cost them dearly. Slade is now gone – surely making Graham Henry’s job easier and less costly for his ego. Although, calling up Stephen Donald would have hurt Henry, he had no choice. I feel for Donald, and although we’ll start with Cruden, I hope Donald gets some time to prove some people wrong. You have to feel for the likes of Carter, Muliaina and Slade, who have experienced the highs, but now face a fairly major low.

Which all leaves us with the question of who will go through to the final?

Personally, I think and hope that the Welsh manage it. For all their irrational dislike and hatred of the English, I had a happy 3 years there and I wish them well. As folks here have frequently said “The French only have one good performance per tournament and they’ve used it up.”

And what of the Wallabies or All Blacks? On form, it’ll be pretty close. But, thankfully games aren’t played on form alone. One would have to say the All Blacks have the better team and should make it through. I predict they will, but it’ll be a close game, even if the scoreline doesn’t fully reflect it.

All that remains to be said is there are 4 teams left, 3 of which are coached by Kiwis. These boys know their rugby, and I still believe in 2 weeks’ time, it’ll be a Kiwi coach whose team are champions. See you Wales in the final and 'go the All Blacks!'

Godzone

2011-10-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

To say that Godzone is one of the most exciting and inspiring projects I've been involved in is no exaggeration. It's been a privilege to head up the project and a thrill to see it come to fruition.

Way back in 2006, when I first visited NZ and contemplated the idea of moving here to head up TSCF's outreach amongst students, one of the dates that loomed in my mind was 2011. The Rugby World Cup was 5 years away, but the potential of the world's third biggest sporting event being in NZ was enormous.

Since moving here, we've been working towards the Rugby World Cup, knowing it would provide unique opportunities to speak of Jesus in a way that connects with much of the NZ population. To that end, one of the initiatives we agreed to work on was a rugby-themed Gospel which included the Christian testimonies of a number of high profile players.

After a significant amount of effort and investment, and a number of obstacles and frustrations, it was great to finally see the fruit of of our labour with the arrival of 'Godzone' in the early stages of the RWC.

Using the easy to read, New Living Translation, it is designed to introduce people to Jesus. We have used Luke's account of Jesus' life, as it starts with the more familiar Christmas birth narrative and includes stories that have resonance with Kiwis, such as the lost sheep in Luke 15.

Godzone includes 10 stories of high profile international players from around the globe. Brad Thorn, the current All Black lock is the player most Kiwis recognise and respond to, but numerous others elicit positive repsonses. Fijian Captain, Deacon Manu who grew up in New Plymouth (NZ) is well known on these shores, whilst RWC winners Nick Farr-Jones and Jason Robinson bring significant credentials on the rugby field. Euan Murray, the Scottish Prop is widely known as a Christian, mainly due to his stand of not playing on Sundays. Doris Taufateau is probably a name not widely known, but as a women's rugby player & women's RWC winner, she has achieved great success. Pierre Spies and Tendai 'Beast' Mtawarira are part of the Springboks RWC squad, with David Pocock and Sekope Kepu are members of the Wallabies squad.

As well as these, Godzone features pictures of scenery from around NZ, which is also where the name 'Godzone' comes from. NZ is frequently referred to as 'Godzone' or 'God's Own Country'. Our desire in publishing Godzone is that people in NZ and beyond would come to know God's Own Son, Jesus as they read it.

Within TSCF, we have made Godzone available to our students to give to their friends personally with the challenge and encouragement to read it. We have also made it available for churches and organisations in NZ, so that it can also be given to unbelieving friends. One leader wrote to us saying "I have just a had a good look at Godzone...IT'S BRILLIANT. Thanks for this wonderful gift you have given us!" We've consistently had this sort of reaction as people have seen it and realised its potential. The fact it is Kiwi designed and made brings extra appeal.

It's been thrilling to see it get some coverage in the national and international media. The Dominion Post in Wellington had a story on it, whilst the Irish Independent and Guinness websites picked up on it! Our good friend Paul Windsor has also made some kind comments about it here on his blog

Our vision for Godzone is that as people read it, they would come to meet Jesus for themselves. We've been encouraged to hear of a number of people giving it to friends, including some of the players and teams, school pupils, students, sports team members and work colleagues. So, we would love people to do likewise - if you would like to get hold of copies of Godzone for yourself and/or friends, you can do so here. (We will ship around the world, although obviously it costs more to send overseas.)

Rugby World Cup Reflections on Pool Stages

2011-10-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

After 3 weeks of intense rugby, the 2011 Rugby World Cup pool stages are over. 4 pools of 5 teams have played their hearts out, and we now know the 8 teams who will compete the knock-out stages to find the winner of this year's Rugby World Cup.

In the midst of a busy season work-wise, I have been privileged to watch a number of the games live. Work commitments have probably meant I've watched less games on TV than I normally would, but given RWC fever is all around us, feel I've not really missed out.

So, what do I make of the teams I've seen and of the 40 matches that have gone before us? Here's some reflections on RWC 2011 Pool Stages:

Grassroots Rugby

The first day I attended of RWC was an epic. We travelled to Dunedin for England v Argentina, but due to the shift of match from Christchurch, we were able to add a quick road-trip to Invercargill to watch Scotland v Romania. The atmosphere in Southland was fantastic - so many kilts and such a close game. Scotland were poor, but the Romanians were passionate and unfortunate. At the end of the match, we were able to "hang around" the tunnel as the players left, which for me brought back memories of the 1991 RWC when commercialism hadn't taken it's vice-like grip on the IRB. It was a great insight into the passion for rugby in ordinary Kiwi's lives.

Global Rugby

After a quick drive North, we were in Dunedin for the Falklands' Classic in the new Forsyth Barr stadium. On arrival, we were greeted by a cacophony of noise which was incessant throughout. Fair play to the Argentinian fans, who came in their droves, bounced like crazy and sang with gusto. As with the Scots, England were lucky to win, but we enjoyed a night when global rugby with its modern stadia, vast numbers of fans, Mexican waves and streakers added to the evening's spectacle.

Pacific Island Rugby

Over the tournament, I have seen 2 of the 3 Pacific Island nations play. With TSCF's involvement with Deacon Manu, I enjoyed supporting the Fijians in their ultimately unsuccessful tournament. The best passing I have ever seen on a rugby pitch came from the Samoans, who were ultimately let down by poor refereeing by Nigel Owens and cynical play from the South Africans. Their speed of pass, belief in their running support play and willingness to give it a go was wonderful to watch. I'm told, although I wasn't there, that the Tongans fully deserved their win against the French.

However, in the midst of all of this, I see the IRB and the likes of NZRU's Steve Tew don't give these supposed "minnow" nations the credit they deserve. On Queen Street last Friday, after Samoa had been knocked out of the tournament, the party atmosphere created by their fans suggested they had won the tournament. Considering all they bring, it seems unfair to give them the playing schedule, the massive fines (particularly compared with England's let-off) and diminishing of their culture (stopping Bible verses being written on shirts, reducing the impact of war-dances with various rules and regulations). Come on the IRB - it's time to recognise the value of these nations!

Northern Hemisphere teams

Of the bigger teams, I have seen England, Scotland, Romania and Wales play so far. (I'm hoping that I get chance to see the Irish before the tournament ends!) Of these, Wales have looked far and away the most convincing. They deserved to win against SA, although I was sat directly in the line of fire of 'that' kick, and can confirm it looked doubtful as to whether it was over. In Sam Warburton, they seem to have a great leader and player. Their clash with Ireland looks set to be a classic. The Irish result against the Aussies was fantastic - the Irish have some of the best players around and so it was great to see them do their reputation justice. Although I'm an Englishman, even I can see they've not been playing well and that there appears to be a major discipline problem revolving around the sense of privilege there should be in playing for your country.

Southern Hemisphere teams

I've been privileged to watch NZ, SA & Argentina play. Of those, only NZ have looked anything like contenders for the trophy. SA have ground out results, but have looked anything but impressive. They have the players, but they are also getting older. Argentina are fortunate to be there, but we would expect them to returning home to BA at the weekend. The dark horses for me are Australia. Robbie Deans is a good coach. They have some good players, and I would anticipate they will beat SA and meet NZ in the semi. For me, the winner of that clash will win the tournament. Of course, the All Blacks suffered a massive blow with the tournament ending injury for Dan Carter. I've written about that elsewhere. They can still win the tournament, but to do so has just got harder.

Quarter Final Predictions

Who will win? Realistically, anything could happen (well, apart from the Pumas beating NZ), but here's what I think...

QF1 Ireland v Wales. This is the toughest to predict. My head says Wales, but my hearts say the Irish. I think on the basis of the way they've been playing, it'll be the Welsh, but either way, I think there'll only be a few points in it.

QF2 England v France. Unless the French have a Sacre Bleu moment or two, this is England's to lose. They have looked awful and their team unity seems as bad as English off-field discipline. This is England's.

QF3 SA v Australia. Could be a close one. I think the Irish win against the Aussies was a good wake-up call for them. For me, the Springboks have just not looked convincing. Their cynicism could cost them, particularly if it is refereed well. Bryce Lawrence has been appointed, so as Brian Moore said "You might as well toss a coin to see who wins!" Australia by 5 points or so.

QF4 NZ v Argentina I have no doubts NZ will win this one. But, I think the big story to come out of this game will be Colin Slade (who I like & rate) having a poor game as his lack of confidence continues. Piri Weepu will come to the rescue and NZ will win by about 20 points. Weepu will then start the semi and Cruden come onto the bench. You heard it here first...

So, the semis should be Wales/Ireland v England - head says Wales, my heart (& wife) wants Ireland, and Australia v NZ. Not long to go until we find out!

Rugby in our backyard

2011-09-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

It's hard to imagine I still have any blog readers, after another protracted absence for a little while. However, in the vain hope that someone, somewhere is still reading, and in the recognition that
blogging is a healthy discipline for me to maintain, here's a few thoughts/reflections on recent happenings.

The past few months have been some of the busiest since we arrived in NZ. In 2007, when we first started seriously thinking about moving to NZ and what God may have in store for us, the Rugby World Cup in 2011 seemed a long way away. The distant has become present and the dreams a reality.

I'm often asked by friends overseas "What big events does TSCF have for the Rugby World Cup?". The reality is TSCF doesn't really do "big" events in the way the questioners are used to. It's not that we're against them, but more that by and large, the situation here doesn't require or suit them. There are some "big" events that happen in the NZ Christian scene, but mostly things are done at the grass-roots level in smaller communities and numbers. NZ is a country where relationships are important, and things don't have to be big to be good. We've embraced that in our outreach and our mission strategy. Indeed, some of the most exciting things in TSCF have been the smaller things that others would see as "off the radar".

Still, having the Rugby World Cup in our backyard brings opportunities for the gospel that simply cannot be missed. TSCF has ensured that we use it to see more students reached with the Good News of Jesus. Our energies have been channelled in 3 main directions:

1 - GODZONE

The initiative we have been working towards for some months has finally come to fruition. TSCF has produced a rugby-themed edition of Luke's Gospel, interspersed with 10 international rugby players' testimonies. It is this that has taken most of my time for the last couple of months, and my biggest reason for not blogging in that time! Suffice to say, it merits it's own blogpost, so, watch this space in the next few days for a specific post on Godzone.

2 - RWC EVENTS IN EVERY GROUP

As part of our commitment to evangelism and connecting with the culture, we have encouraged and challenged every TSCF group to try at least one initiative related to the Rugby World Cup. Some have been bigger events and some, much smaller, with just a few friends gathered together. But, we are encouraged by the willingness of our students to connect with the events around them & to see them as gospel opportunities.

It's been great to hear of some of the "Kiwi" groups partnering with the International groups to help explain rugby to overseas visitors. Similarly, it's been brilliant to see students whose interest in rugby is only passing, seize the opportunity and expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.

3 - AN EVENING WITH DEACON MANU

In God's timing, He has brought us into contact with Deacon Manu, the current Fiji Captain. Deacon was born & raised in NZ. His father is Maori and his mother Fijian. Having played in the Super Rugby competition in NZ, he moved to South Wales and has been playing for the Llanelli Scarlets in the Magners League & Heineken Cup. It is whilst in Wales, through the witness of elderly neighbours, that he has grown in relationship with Jesus.

Deacon has said that he sees part of the reason that he is in the RWC squad is so God can use him to be a witness during the tournament. Out of that conviction, he has given of himself on a number of occasions to join us at events in NZ and Fiji and speak of his life in rugby and life in Jesus.

The night before the pre-tournament match against the All Blacks, he shared in Dunedin of how he came to know Jesus. A day before leaving Fiji for NZ and the RWC, Deacon was the cause of a commotion similar to when the Beatles arrived in the USA, as he attended the Pacific Students for Christ (PSFC, the IFES movement in Fiji) annual conference. Again, he spoke humbly and faithfully of his love for Jesus. This past week, just 2 nights before playing the current World Champions, South Africa, Deacon joined a similar event in Wellington, where he also memorably provided a tuition of how to wheel a scrum (complete with real life front-row of a scrum formed by 6 student volunteers!). Later this week, we trust he will be speaking at another event in Auckland.

These events have been significant opportunities for students to hear of someone who loves Jesus more than rugby, and to connect with how to use sport as your mission. Deacon is a great example of both of these and we have been thankful to God for his willingness and enthusiasm to partner with us.

While all this has been going on, Jen has done a stellar job looking after the boys and the home. Sam is increasingly becoming more chatty and more mischievous. He knows when he sees a silver fern that it is the All Blacks and tells us it is "rugby". He's also knows that he 'plays' football on a Saturday & the key thing is to "kick kick". We're anticipating after the weekend's performances that his Ireland shirt will be worn much more than any England clothing he has!

Meanwhile, Josh is a much more placid child. He rarely grumbles and just likes to sit back and watch what is happening. Thankfully, he seems to enjoy the presence of his older brother, even when that involves cuddling (read smothering), kissing (read slobbering) and playing (read bouncing balls against your younger brother). We're loving having two very different children and the fun/challenges they bring.

We had a lovely time with Jen's parents a few weeks back when they came to visit us. It was brilliant to see Sam run down the airbridge at Wellington airport shouting "Nana, Nana, Papa, Papa" on their arrival into NZ. We're thankful for these times we have with family, and are aware of the sacrifices that are made for God's Kingdom by those who are "left behind".

The busyness of my work should return to 'normal' in the coming days & I hope to be able to blog a little more about some of the ministry, as well as the rugby taking place in NZ in the coming weeks. Watch this space, but don't hold your breath!

How then will you live? A tribute to John Stott

2011-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

For the second time in the past week, I woke to Jen telling me the news that someone had died. At the weekend, it was Amy Winehouse. This morning, Jen shared that Rev John Stott had passed from this life into eternity.

The news of John Stott is still fairly fresh. The few hours I have been awake have been spent thinking of & thanking God for all that he did and was.

Ranked by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the world, this position is clear by the many tributes from around the world already posted on Facebook and Twitter.

At his boarding school in Rugby, having heard a talk by the Rev Eric Nash entitled "What then shall I do with Jesus?", the 17 year old Stott knelt by his bedside and gave his life over to Jesus - he became a Christian.

His subsequent life was spent in the service of the Jesus he knew and loved. At Cambridge University, he became part of the CICCU (the Christian Union), and then later became ordained as an Anglican clergyman. Becoming Curate and then Rector of All Souls, Langham Place, John Stott stayed involved in his local church (just a short walk from where he was born) for the remainder of his life.

John Stott was known as a Pastor and a preacher. His ministry at All Souls saw a remarkable growth in size and influence of the church in the heart of London. However, through his writings and wider ministry as a theologian and scholar, he became known and loved throughout the world. To many, he was known as "Uncle John" - a term of endearment and affection for the lifelong bachelor.

For me, two of his books have stood out - "The Cross of Christ" is probably his greatest written work, where he defends and articulates the finished work of Jesus on the cross, the message we believe and preach. His contribution to the Bible Speaks Today series with his commentary on the book of 2 Timothy is probably the commentary I have read most and significantly appreciated.

In his final sermon, at the Keswick Convention, he chose to preach on "Becoming More Like Christ". What a choice! My mum who was there said it was fitting of the man that his final publicly preached words were an exhortation that pointed people to Jesus.

Sadly, I never heard him preach in real life. However, on a number of occasions I have visited All Souls, Langham Place. As I meandered with the crowds through for coffee after the service, the door was held open for the throng by Uncle John. In this simple act, he was un-recognised by many, but showed he was servant-hearted and humble to the core.

I'm told he never accepted second-helpings of food out of deference to those who had none. He was a man who mixed with the elite (he was the Chaplain to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II), but who didn't lose sight of the poor.

For the past few years, he has lived in a retirement home with other Anglican clergy. Yesterday afternoon, in the company of a number of friends, whilst listening to Handel's Messiah & having 2 Timothy read to him, he passed into the presence of Jesus. What a way to go!

I've spent the morning remembering the man, his influence and impact, but perhaps most significantly his godliness and humility. When he preached, his sermons had no wasted words. When he wrote, his books were pure gold. The way he lived, he spoke of a far greater treasure.

The temptation with the news is towards idolatry of John Stott. We must not do that and he would not have wanted that. John Stott was not perfect - he had his faults & flaws and in the midst of them, he trusted in Jesus to forgive them, and make him more like Jesus. Instead, we should be inspired by him, encouraged by his example and reminded that our lives are just a vapour - here one moment and gone the next. He would have wanted us to look to Jesus - to see Him, savour Him, share Him and sacrifice our lives for Him.

As I think about the life and death of Amy Winehouse and of John Stott, one is a life wasted and the other a life well spent. There is tragedy and grief in the passing of Ms Winehouse, and sadness and joy in the passing of Rev Stott. The difference between the two isn't just the comparative ages they died at, rather it is summed up in the words of the apostle Paul.

"For me to live is Christ, to die is gain."

Amy Winehouse lived for other things and her life is a tragic loss. John Stott lived for Christ, and his death is gain.

The Sound of Silence

2011-06-30T18:34:00.000-07:00

It seems a familiar routine for me to begin a blog post with words expressing my regret at having not blogged for some time & the blog being filled with the Sound of Silence. Thus far, 2011 has been the busiest year for us in the work here, and it shows no sign of abating. Thankfully, we knew this before the year started, and not every year is the way this has been. However, all this means I've not been as faithful at keeping up to date with blogging. For this, I can only apologise & offer the vain hope that I will try to do better in future!

Where do you begin when there's so much to report on? There have been so many encouragements. Instead of trying to excitedly communicate everything that's happened, here are some of the highlights of what God is doing in our lives at the moment:

Bible Reading

Since January, I've has been working through the Bible chronologically in my daily Bible readings. Thankfully, my mum agreed to work on the same reading scheme. She's a bit ahead of me (I'm a bit behind!), but I've been enjoying reading the Psalms of David and his activities as King. The Psalms I read this morning basically reminded me never to forget the greatness of God. Christopher Hitchens' book entitled "God is Not Great" is simply wrong. He is great, and I must never lose sight of this.

The Boys

The past two months have been noisy in the Carswell household. Sam continues to grow and in particular, his speech is coming on. He definitely has Carswell traits in that regard. We regularly find him, or hear him chattering away to himself, talking to nobody in particular, enjoying the sound of his own voice.

Josh is a much more placid child than Sam was. He sleeps well, and is content to spend time looking at his mum, and listening to his brother.

Both boys have brought us real joy, and we are enjoying the privilege of parenthood, whilst learning some of the challenges too.

Jen

Jen has 'suffered' me being away a fair bit over the past few months. She has held the fort admirably, particularly when her and the boys were all ill whilst I was away. I am aware of the sacrifices she makes, and try as often as possible to limit the time I'm away, or to arrange it so I am around when she most needs it. I'm grateful to friends and colleagues who keep me in check on this. We are looking forward to some family time together after the TSCF Mid Year Conference, when I will take some Annual Leave.

Outreach in TSCF

I am loving being able to focus my energies on outreach within TSCF, having been freed from my responsibilities as Wellington Team Leader. I'm glad Gina Wong is able to focus her time on the team leadership and for Richard Deeble supporting the work as Staff Worker. I'm attempting to think about how we make the most of the opportunities for outreach both nationally and locally (in all the regions), and how we encourage students to make the most of the opportunities to share Jesus with those around them.

Over the past few months, I've met with those who attended the Evangelism Weekend I shared about here. It's been encouraging to hear how the weekend impacted each one, and to hear of some of the impact the weekend had on the students. Here's how one of the students expressed their thanks to me in an email

"Just wanted to say that I really found the training useful and really extremely very very muchly appreciated the opportunity to learn from you, Nigel and other students who share similar passion of sharing Jesus. Would reaaaaally love to have more opportunity as such in the coming year if possible :) Haven't stopped thinking about what I've learnt since..."

We want to see students not only impacted with the gospel, but changed by it and keen to take the good news to others. We thank God for the growth we see in students like this.

Learning to Trust God in Spite of Exchange Rate Falls

Over the past months, the UK-NZ exchange rate has continued to decline. Last year, it hit its lowest trough for 30 years, and has since declined. We are currently at some of the lowest rates ever. Needless to say, this all affects us significantly. Because of this, without losing any of our supporters, we effectively "lose" significant chunks of our financial support. We thus have to raise new support just to keep at past levels. In the midst of a busy year, this continues to be a challenge. We don't want to be those who are known for only talking about money and financial needs, but without changes to the situation, our support base will suffer.

Through it all, it is a reminder that we must only trust in God to supply our needs. He always has and always will. Chatting with a friend in the UK yesterday, it was an encouragement hearing them share how God has prompted them to take a job with a salary 1/10th the size of another job they were offered, because that was where they believed God was calling them. It was a reminder again to me to ensure our treasure is in heaven, not on earth.

Having said all that, there are those who have partnered with us of late, and we are thankful to God for them. Others have asked how they can be part of God's work here in NZ. If you are interested in joining with us, please drop me a line. (There are tax-efficient ways of doing this from the UK, NZ & USA)

Rugby World Cup

The RWC is only a few months away now. The excitement within NZ is almost palpable. Conversations around ministry opportunities continue apace. We continue to work on producing a rugby-themed Gospel for free distribution in time for the World Cup. The bulk of the work on that (from my perspective) is due to be done in the coming few weeks. Please pray that it would all come together well and in time. Do specifically pray that as students & others read the Gospel for themselves, that they would meet Jesus and have their lives changed and transformed by Him, as they come to know Him.

One of the players who has been helping us in it is Deacon Manu. Deacon is the Captain of the Fijian rugby team. He plays Professionally as a Prop for the Neath Llanelli Scarlets in Wales. Whilst living in Wales, he really came to know Christ for himself. In December last year, he fractured his arm playing against Leinster. Tomorrow, he is due to have his first match back as he plays against Tonga in the Pacific Nations Cup. Please pray for Deacon as he works towards playing for Fiji in the World Cup. He is clear that God has given him unique opportunities to be a witness in the professional rugby scene - do pray that God would use Him significantly, particularly in the months ahead. We are looking at a number of potential initiatives with Deacon which work with his rugby itinerary.

TSCF Mid Year Conference

Next week is the annual TSCF Mid Year Conference. It's a gathering of students from across the country for a week of Bible teaching and training, combined with fun and fellowship. Our theme for the week is "What if God was one of us?" We're looking at the incarnation - what it is, what it means, how it affects and changes us. We long for a significant week in the lives of students. Look out on here for a report after the conference has finished!

Overall, I have a real sense of God's hand being on us and working in and through us over the past few months. We really are thankful to Him for all He's doing, but depend on Him to continue what He has been doing in our lives and those He brings across our pathway.

(Some of you may be aware of a little project I've been working on - The Double Listener is a blog where I'm attempting to look at culture & engage with it from a Biblical perspective. I'm deliberately seeking to write from a Kiwi perspective, as so much that we have here in NZ is imported from around the world. I recognise the same can be said of me, but I'm trying to be as Kiwi as possible.) Do check it out & tell others.

The People's Prince

2011-04-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

It was particularly heartening to see Prince William going on a walkabout the night before his wedding to meet and greet well-wishers. It was this kind of behaviour that earned his mother the title 'The People's Princess'.

However, having seen it and been encouraged, it did get me thinking that really this should be the norm. The Royal Family is there to serve the people, they are the representatives of the people, and therefore should be mixing with ordinary people more often than not. Good on both William & Harry for doing this more often than others in their everyday lives.

Over the past few months, I've seen and heard of a number of examples of Christian ministry where leaders have been away from the ordinary people. This should not be so! Christian ministry is all about people - loving them, serving them, sharing Jesus with them, teaching them, encouraging them, correcting them, training them and so many more things. (If I doubt this, 2 Corinthians 5 should remind me of it) The key is that Christian ministry is about God's involvement with people. When I (or others) distance or isolate myself from involvement with people, I separate myself from God's work and involvement in the live's of people.

Who will win the 2011 Rugby World Cup?

2011-04-06T04:20:00.000-07:00

It's a question I've been asked in both the Northern hemisphere & Southern hemisphere as momentum and interest gathers for this year's Rugby World Cup. In an interesting article in this week's 'New Zealand Listener', Paul Thomas examines the All Blacks' chances in the upcoming RWC.

Using Donald Rumsfeld's quote about Iraq's possession of Weapons of Mass Destruction, where he said "There are known knowns - things that we know that we know. There are known unknowns - that's to say, things we know we don't know. But there are also unknown unknowns - things we don't know we don't know." Paul Thomas examines the known knowns of All Blacks Rugby going into the 2011 RWC. From the facts he provides, he deduces "Everything we know at this point suggests the All Blacks will win the World Cup. It's what we don't know that's the worry."

So, I thought I'd broaden the debate. Using his checks, here's an analysis of who I think are the main contenders for the RWC - the All Blacks, Australia, South Africa, England, France, Ireland, Scotland & Wales. (For me, Argentina, Fiji, Samoa and probably some of the "home nations" are all outside chances.) Each check looks at a different aspect of the team and their prospects based on those characteristics. The categories are:

Form: This speaks for itself, though obviously the Northern Hemisphere has more up to date information on this, as the Southern Hemisphere International season hasn't started yet.
Experience: Apparently, Eddie Jones (former Wallabies coach) reckons you need at least 650 caps in your starting XV. I'm not prepared to add up the various teams' caps, but will consider players with 50+ caps as experienced.
Class: Bob Dwyer, ex-Wallabies coach reckons you need at least 6 world class players in your team, along with some other proven international performers.
A proven coaching/management team: I'm less convinced by this one. Sir Clive Woodward being a prime example of both sides of the folly of this - winning the RWC in 2003 after a previous failure, and then spectacularly losing the 2005 Lions tour after the 2003 RWC success!
Leadership: The article basically described this as the Captain, but I see it as so much more. The pack leader is important in rugby, as well as key players who influence the team.
Home advantage: There's only one team who will have this!

So, let's look at the teams under those categories:

All Blacks:
Form: Number 1 team in the world outside of the World Cup, won 13/14 games in 2010.
Experience: There's no doubting their significant experience - McCaw, Carter, Muliaina, Nonu, Mealamu, Rokocoko, Woodcock
Class: McCaw, Carter, Sonny Bill Williams, Mealamu, Nonu, Smith, Thorn
A proven coaching/management team: Graham "Judge me on the 2007 RWC" Henry, Wayne Smith & Steve Hansen - a pretty impressive 3 wise men, some of the finest minds in world rugby.
Leadership: There's no doubting McCaw & Carter's leadership, but the questions are who else - Brad Thorn & Ali Williams (if fit) will provide some, but you wouldn't say it was a team full of leaders.
Home advantage: Should be a definite advantage, but the added pressure of home advantage may prove to be an extra millstone around the neck for the ABs.

Australia:
Form: Making good progress under Robbie Deans, finally beating their nemesis the All Blacks last year.
Experience: Elsom, Mitchell, Giteau, Moore, Chisholm, Sharpe spring to mind, with a few others who are beginning to gain a bit more experience, but are still in the youthful category currently.
Class: Aside from Matt Giteau, there's some potentially world-class players coming through, but currently they are few and far between.
A proven coaching/management team: Robbie Deans has been rejected by the All Blacks, but has begun to make his own mark on the Wallabies. A wise rugby mind who must surely be a strength for the Wallabies' campaign.
Leadership: There's some leaders here, but not many - Elsom, Giteau & then a whole raft of young fellers who will need some help & guidance.
Home advantage: Australia don't have it, but they're closer to home than many others. The lack of travel and their familiarity with the surroundings will surely be a help.

England:
Form: 6 Nations Champions going into the tournament. Last time they were (2003), they went on to win the RWC. Their loss to Ireland though proves their frailty in form.
Experience: Tindall, Moody, Wilkinson, Thompson, Shaw, Worsley are all fairly old-timers, but perhaps more significantly, all are World Cup Winners - that is significant experience.
Class: Palmer, Moody, Wilkinson probably fit into this category. There's some good young uns too, but they're unproven.
A proven coaching/management team: Martin Johnno Johnson - proven as a player, completely unproven as a coach.
Leadership: They've had a few changes of late, but Tindall, Easter, Moody, Wilkinson provide a good spine of leadership.
Home advantage: Not there at all, in fact, England come to a place where historically they have struggled.

Ireland:
Form: A significant win against England swings the balance in favour of the Irish. They didn't have a good 6 Nations, but all that changed in their last match win against England.

Experience: Hayes, O'Driscoll, O'Connell, Bowe, O'Gara, O'Callaghan, D'Arcy, Wallace, Stringer, Horgan
Class: In O'Driscoll, they have the world class player of the last decade. Add to that, O'Gara & O'Connell, and you have 3 of the great players of world rugby in the last few years.
A proven coaching/management team: Declan Kidney has a good reputation, but is he proven?
Leadership: The 3 world class players provide a spine throughout the team, add to that the wiley Peter Stringer and you have a backbone of leadership.
Home advantage: N/A

Scotland
Form: It's been better than in the Matt Smith & Frank Hadden years, but that's not saying much. There's signs of improvement, but you wouldn't call it good form yet.
Experience: Jacobsen, Hines, Blair, Parks, Southwell, Paterson & Lamont have the experience.
Class: Hmmm...honestly, of that list, you'd have to say only Chris Paterson has the worldclass, and he's not always picked. On his day, I'd say Euan Murray is worldclass, but he's not on his day at the moment & I may be biased.
A proven coaching/management team: Andy Robinson really doesn't have the record which would be described as proven. He was number 2 in the England 2003 success, but whether that counts is up for debate.
Leadership: I really don't know with this one - again, Paterson is the name that stands out, but maybe that's where Scotland's problems start. Who are their leaders? Even their Captain is relatively unknown...who is he again?!
Home advantage: They're playing in the deep South - maybe that is the home advantage they're looking for!

South Africa:
Form: Their Super 15 teams have been doing well, with the Blue Bulls winning the Super 14 last year. The Springboks themselves looked tired and aged last year though, so the form really isn't on their side currently.
Experience: van der Linde, Matfield, du Preez, Smit, Botha, Smith, de Villiers, Habana
Class: Matfield, Habana, Smit, both Steyns, Spies, van der Linde are all world class players. Of all the teams, I would suggest the Springboks have the most world class players in their squad/team.
A proven coaching/management team: Most certainly not. Their coaching/management is on the pitch, whilst the puppet/clown is the public face of their management team.
Leadership: They have undoubted leaders - Matfield, Smit, Spies, du Preez and both Steyns all provide great leadership. This could be their real strength on the pitch.
Home advantage: Their 'home advantage' comes from playing in a country they are used to playing in regularly.

Wales:
Form: Patchy. They've been good at some things, but recently they've been poor.
Experience: A Jones, J Thomas, S Jones, Peel, Williams,
Class: Shane Williams, Steven Jones and Ryan Jones are probably the only world class players in this team. Shane Williams is the cream of the crop of these.
A proven coaching/management team: I like Warren Gatland. He's seen some success in Wales, but not enough - hardly proven at this stage.
Leadership: There's some leadership there - Ryan Jones, Steven Jones, Matthew Rees, Andy Powell, MIke Phillips, Lee Byrne provide it in different ways, though none of them are strong leaders.
Home advantage: N/A

France:
Form: Ah, which French team are we talking about? They are so mixed in their form, it's hard to say which team we are talking about! They can be blindingly brilliant, or dreadfully awful.
Experience: Marconnet, Nallet, Thion, Bonnaire, Chabal, Harinordoquay, Jauzion, Rougerie, Traille,
Class: This may be a tough call, but I think the only world class player France has is Chabal & he's been on the bench a fair bit lately.
A proven coaching/management team: Marc Lievremont has been around for a few years now. He's seen a typically French response - some good & some bad. Hard to describe him as proven.
Leadership: The big names are there, but which are the leaders - Dusautoir is Captain, but so many have been looked to provide leadership, and yet they have been found wanting.
Home advantage: Definitely not here - in Wellington in particular, the French are unlikely to receive a warm welcome!

So, several teams with potential, but as we all know, World Cups are not won on potential. The journalist writing threw in the "known unknowns" of injuries for your team & opposition, refereeing & the on-the-day factor bring an extra dimension.

For what it's worth, I think the winners will probably be the All Blacks (so long as McCaw and Carter stay injury free). I anticipate an All Blacks v Wallabies final, with the semi-finals being made up of Australia v England (my guess is this could go to extra time) & New Zealand v South Africa. For what it's worth, I reckon the QFs will be made up of: NZ, France, England, Argentina, Australia, Ireland, South Africa & Wales.

To my mind, NZ have the team of experience, class & wider than that, sublimely brilliant players on their day. Australia have a good team, but they're just that bit too young - watch out for them in 2015 though! South Africa have the opposite problem - they're just that bit too old.

England are coming right at the right time, but they're just not good enough. They lack in a few areas & just haven't learned how to win games regularly yet. Ireland should be fun to watch, but you can't win a tournament with a few world class players, Scotland don't have the world class players, leadership or experience to go far, Wales will be entertaining, but will never properly threaten, and France - who knows?! They really could and should win it, but they won't. The curse of the French will continue.

I look forward to the RWC & seeing all this played out in real life - the talking will be over & the action/fun will have started. Roll on Sept 9th when the RWC begins and Oct 23rd, when I will look back and see what my predictions were. What do you agree/disagree with? Who do you think will win? I'd love to hear what your thoughts are...

Respectable Sins - Book Review

2011-04-04T17:27:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, you read a book which is so good that you wholeheartedly recommend to others to read. This book is in that category.

I started reading Jerry Bridges' work some time ago, and for a number of reasons hadn't finished it. However, a few weeks ago, I decided it was time to complete what I had begun. What a journey this book takes you on.

My first experience with Bridges came at Bible College, when his 'The Pursuit of Holiness' was a core text for one of my courses. I remember being challenged by it then, and profoundly moved by Bridges' desire to "be holy, as God is holy". His book became one I regularly recommended to students. A few years ago, Jen & I visited Great Victoria Street Baptist church, Belfast when Jerry Bridges spoke. We enjoyed his message, but I felt his writing carried an even greater clarity, urgency and passion.

So, when I picked 'Respectable Sins' up, I was fully expecting a good read. What I wasn't quite prepared for was a spiritual "open-heart surgery".

The book is sub-titled "Confronting the sins we tolerate". Its premise is to look at the more subtle sins that Christians have lost sight of. He examines the "acceptable" sins we tolerate in ourselves - jealousy, anger, pride, unthankfulness, judgmentalism to name a few, and offers the hope of the gospel in response to these sins. I heard someone (who hadn't read the book!) describe it as "just another one of those books saying the same old thing". How wrong they were! Simply put it is powerful, profoundly challenging and an excellent read.

Bridges' opening chapters deal with sin itself and God's remedy for sin, before he moves on in the later chapters to specific sins themselves. It is simple, but gospel-centred reading that reminds us of the ongoing necessity for the Good News of Jesus in the lives of the believer.

"Many Christians think of the gospel as only for unbelievers. Once we trust in Christ, so the thinking goes, we no longer need the gospel. But, as I seek to bring out in this book, the gospel is a vital gift from God not only for our salvation but also to enable us to deal with the ongoing activity of sin our lives. So we still need the gospel every day." From the Preface, p10

As a book, it is so relevant in the University context. Quoting D.A. Carson, he writes of University students "They know how to sin well enough, but they have no idea of what constitutes sin." Having read this book, I am convinced of the need to communicate the reality of sin not just with unbelieving students, but also with believing students who have lost sight of the holiness of God.

Particularly challenging was the fact that Bridges spoke into the sins of anxiety and frustration. I'm pretty sure I've never heard anyone preach on anxiety and worry being sin. Bridges argues "Anxiety is sin for two reasons. First...anxiety is a distrust of God....Second, anxiety is a sin because it is a lack of acceptance of God's providence in our lives." (p64) It was probing to be reminded of my need to trust in God in every area and not worry about anything.

Reading his chapter on 'Unthankfulness', I was reminded of a great sermon I heard some years back given by Alistair Begg on 'Thankfulness and gratitude'. Although a simple chapter, I am struck that its not something many people are teaching. I was thankful for Bridges giving voice to an articulation of the necessity for thankfulness.

Bridges' chapter on pride dealt with a sin that we are aware of. The angles he took in looking at pride probably were a little different. His explanation of the presence of pride in an independent spirit communicated much of what I believe about the importance of teachability.

Near the end of the book, I found that with each chapter, I was going to bed to read with a sense of fear as to how God was going to use Bridges to speak to me next. None was more so than when I got to the chapter on "Impatience and Irritability". You may think "You're not particularly impatient or irritable" - unfortunately, we manage to hide things well. To read Bridges spell out the nature of these sins was like the doctor telling me how I retain my high cholesterol - he spoke into my life, and the truth hurt.
Thankfully, the gospel of Jesus is Good News!

By the time I got to the chapter on "judgmentalism", I'd got my money's worth from the book. God had used it to speak so profoundly to me. But this chapter took the biscuit. Listen to Bridges talking of the well-known passage about the log and the speck in Matthew 7:1-5.

"Stop trying to play God toward your fellow believers in Christ. God is the Judge, not you...Perhaps this is what Jesus had in mind in the well-known passage Matthew 7:1-5...Could it be that the log in our own eye is the log of judgmentalism, arrogating to ourselves the role of God?...

The seriousness of the sin of judgmentalism is not so much that I judge my brother as that in so doing, I assume the role of God." (p144)

This book has spoken so profoundly into my life that it belongs in that special category of books that should be re-read, and regularly re-read so that the message of the gospel that rings loud and clear from it rings loud and clear in my life. It reminds me of the wonderful hope of the gospel of Jesus who brings forgiveness of sins, who shows me how to live, and whose presence with me gives me the power to live a holy life that brings glory to Him.

I highly recommend this book which will probe parts that other books don't reach.

The God Who Wasn't There

2011-04-03T03:42:00.001-07:00

Just about to head to bed - I thought I'd quite like to start a new book, so looked on my shelves at the plethora of choices. (Note - I love books & at any given time, have a vast number just waiting to be read.) As it's Sunday, I like to focus my thoughts on God, and went to my shelves with a view to picking a book which helped me focus my thoughts on Him, to get to see Him in all His glory.

Surprisingly, having worked through the choices, I realised on my shelves here in NZ I have no books which lead me to specifically look at who God is and delight myself in Him. Yes, there were books which looked at aspects of doctrine, many books which in various ways were "how to-s" of the Christian life, some even written by unbelievers which focussed more on God than many Christian ones ('God is not great' & 'The God Delusion' - maybe it's time for a 'God is great' & 'The God Reality' reposte?), but I just wanted something which "fixed my eyes on the author and perfecter of our faith." Among the estimated several hundred I looked at, none fitted the bill.

Maybe this situation says more about me and my choices of books than it does about the Christian book scene and its authors and readers? But, having been thwarted at reading of Him of whom it was said "Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written." I've decided when I'm next back in the UK at the store of my boxed away books, I need to get my hands on some of those books & bring them back. Failing that, maybe it's time to even write some myself. Either way, I want to read more of Him and delight myself in Him.

God makes no mistakes

2011-03-31T00:55:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy few days. On Tuesday of this week, Jen gave birth to our second child, Joshua Benjamin Carswell. He was born a healthy 8lbs 3oz, dark hair & a good set of lungs. Both Jen & Josh are doing well, and are due to leave hospital in the morning.

Back at home, Sam & I have been holding the fort. Poor boy hasn't known what's hit him. He's enjoyed (probably more like endured) a few days of dad looking after him, dressing, bathing, cooking etc & probably is ready for mum to be home. It's been good fun, though a surprisingly busy time.

In between hospital visits and all that needs to be done at home, I've been doing some thinking. Whilst preparing for Jen's elective C-section, we had the anesthetist come and share the various risks and procedures that would take place for Jen's operation. As we listened to the numerous possibilities of things that could go wrong, and all that they would to try to make things right should the need arise, it really hit home that we are all aware of the sanctity of human life. Sure, some people don't mind cutting short a life before a baby makes it out of the womb, and others like to cut short a life when it's out in the world, but generally speaking, we are all conscious of the specialness of human life. Our desire to preserve and prolong it is there. We really are "fearfully and wonderfully made" and I think we all know it. If you are in any doubt, I'd encourage you to visit our anesthetist as he described the wonder of the human body in responding to low blood pressure - "You get a light head, which is all part of the body's response to tell you to lie down."

As Joshua came on the scene and we got to hold him, hear him, love him and cherish him, again, I was intoxicated with the wonder of new life. As I tweeted elsewhere, maybe that's why Jesus says "You must be born again" and that we're told in Corinthians that "If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come." I believe both of those, and have been reminded again of them, as I enjoy the delights of new life. As a Christian, the freshness and newness of new life is a wonderful part of our Good News message. Jesus came to bring life, and life in all its fullness - without Him, we have no life, as He is "the Life". He holds out the offer of new life, which brings a wonderful fresh start, a new beginning.

I've also been thinking about children, and all the joy & pain they bring us. It is no mistake that Jesus says "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them. For the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Children are there for a purpose. God makes no mistakes in allowing children into our lives. He could have created us all as adults (think about it - he did that with Adam & Eve!), but instead chooses to bring us into the world as children, to teach us and train us, but also to teach and train us as adults. The simplicity of children, the innocence and love, all provide a vital illustration that remind us of the One who came into the world as a baby, who "grew in wisdom and stature and favour with God and people".

I make many mistakes, and repeatedly fail. God makes none. He never fails. I praise Him for the wonder of childbirth, the delights of new life, the innocence of children, and the lessons they teach me. We're thankful to God for Josh's safe arrival & Jen's good health. In so many ways, God has been good. What a wonderful God we have.

It's Friday, Friday...

2011-03-24T14:40:00.001-07:00

For some time, we have wanted to bring together a small group of students who are particularly passionate about reaching those around them with the gospel. The dream became reality last weekend, as 12 of us gathered on the Kapiti Coast just North of Wellington to think about, discuss and consider outreach and evangelism.

It was a good group, made up with a mix of personalities, backgrounds and experiences. Nigel Pollock and I provided the input. Over the weekend, we considered what evangelism is, what the gospel is, how we engage the culture around us with the gospel, before thinking through some of the specific applications of how this would and could look on campuses across NZ. The group engaged well with the teaching, and seemed to go home to their respective cities with a renewed sense of wanting to share Jesus with those God has placed in their lives.

A real highlight was having the opportunity to talk and pray together about friends and family who we would love to come to know Jesus for themselves. I always find that praying for people by name, and asking God for specific opportunities to live and speak for Him is significant and helpful.

By the end of the weekend, the group had become increasingly gangsta

We long to see increasing spheres of influence, as these folks who are particularly enthusiastic about evangelism would draw others into the orbit of seeing who God is and the needs of those around them, and inviting people to consider Jesus. Over the coming months, I will be trying to follow up with each of those who attended to see how we can encourage others, as well as each other in sharing the gospel more.

As I write this on Friday morning, the main event of the next few weeks is the anticipated arrival of our second child early next week. Jen is due in for a C-section, and we look forward to meeting the latest addition to the family and a new chapter in our family's life. Jen would particularly appreciate prayers for the surgery. Sam & I are holding the fort, and look forward to helping mum out with the new baby. We will try to put news and photos online as soon as we are able. I anticipate taking some paternity leave, and God willing, after that, will try to return to posting fairly frequently on here with news of what God is doing in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Reflections on the Christchurch Earthquake (Feb 22nd 2011)

2011-03-23T17:29:00.000-07:00

February 22nd, 2011 will be forever etched in NZ's memory. It was Jen's birthday & I was up the coast from Wellington at a conference of church leaders from around the country. It was lunchtime & we were discussing the potential opportunities the 200th anniversary of the gospel arriving on these shores will bring in 2014, when our conversation was interrupted. Someone had just received news that there had been a major earthquake in Christchurch. There was little news, but it was feared the quake was bigger and more significant than the first earthquake back in September 2010. We stopped, prayed and then moved back to our conversation.

Within minutes though, it became clear that something major had happened. Those around me started to receive text messages with news from family and friends. One shared how his wife had written "The ground is shaking violently. I'm so scared". It became more apparent this was a big one. The conference programme continued after lunch, but people were distracted. Throughout the next session, people were receiving limited bits of information about the whereabouts of loved ones. A picture of the damaged Cathedral which had been posted on a news website was shown on the main screen. It was then that we realised how serious the quake was. An audible gasp was heard as the possibility of widespread fatalities and injuries became apparent.

After returning home from the conference later that afternoon, we spent much of the rest of the day watching news and hearing reports of the damage and destruction. It was a relief to hear that all our staff and their families were safe. That night, we ended up hosting some who were supposed to be flying back to Christchurch, but unable to get on a flight due to the airport's closure. They were very uncertain times.

Over the course of the next few days, the true horrors of the situation became apparent. As we heard friends share their experiences and watched the news unfold, the devastation of Christchurch really hit home. However, in the midst of these, the miracle stories of survival and protection were also told.

The day after the quake, I was supposed to be travelling through Christchurch en route to Dunedin in the far South. When I got to Wellington airport, it became clear that seats on flights to Christchurch were urgently needed for rescue workers & family who needed to get back to the city. My travel plans were changeable, particularly for those in more urgent need. The following day, I flew South directly to Dunedin where I was involved in Orientation week activities. We hastily arranged a lunchtime talk on "Where was God in Christchurch?" at which I spoke. Looking back, it felt quite raw as I tried to respond to the questions people that were fresh in people's minds. In the group that gathered, were the parents of one of our students, who had come down to Dunedin to get away from Christchurch when so much was up in the air.

Flying back, I had no choice but to go through Christchurch. As we flew through the city, it was obvious a terrible tragedy had occurred. Simple things like the flight path being altered so that we avoided the CBD, where the rescue operation continued & noise was being kept to a minimum. Being met at the airports by Red Cross workers, Victim Support and numerous foreign embassy staff (helping overseas visitors who had been impacted) highlighted that these were not normal times. Boarding the completely full flight out of Christchurch, a number of the passengers were in tears, and there was a general sensitivity and understanding as everyone tried to do their bit to help those whose lives had been turned upside down. Across the nation, there was a real sense of everyone pulling together to support and help those so badly impacted by the earthquake. We've had "Red & Black days" - where everyone has worn the colours of the Canterbury region, numerous fundraising events (including the Fill the Basin cricket match, which I enjoyed), the national news has had significant time and space devoted to the ongoing difficulties faced by the region.

It's now just over 1 month since the earthquake happened. Still, the number of fatalities is uncertain. The impact of the earthquake continues - lives are disrupted and different, and some things will never be the same again. The economic impact is beginning to be felt. People are losing jobs as they have no place of work to go back to. The Rugby World Cup has made the unavoidable decision of having to move all the city's planned games elsewhere. The University closed down for a number of weeks, but has since reopened -lectures now take place in tents, much of the teaching is online, communal spaces for students to gather are few.

Aftershocks continue. Each one bringing uncertainty and unease as to whether it will be a big one. The mental toll on that community is enormous. The physical strain of clearing rubble and silt, repairing damage and living flexible and changed lives is vast. For many, the lack of electricity, running water or sewerage has been a real problem. This Youtube clip shows the extent of the destruction (- it's a lengthy clip with no soundtrack - you may only wish to watch some of it).

The grief of the nation continues. On Friday, Cantabrians gathered to remember those whose lives had been lost on what the PM had said "may be NZ's darkest day". Tears flowed as people looked for answers, responses and hope in the face of many questions and pain.

And yet, in all of this, the gospel light still shines. Across the nation, people are talking and asking those important questions. Even this morning, I have had 2 conversations with people about the suffering people face. In light of the events in Japan, people want to know what's going on and why we suffer. Across the country, churches and Christians have joined together to unite in support of those who are in so much need. Opportunities to speak about Jesus are there, but need to be taken with real sensitivity and care.

The coming months and years for Christchurch will never be the same as before. Much change will take place as people try to cope with and respond to the disruption they have faced. As Christians, we need to help with that, and to live and speak the gospel in the midst of this situation. I have been asked if it makes us not want to be here - of course, we don't want to face undue suffering, but we believe this is where God has called us to be. Yes, there are risks, yes, there's a cost, but God has called us and He is faithful. In NZ, as in Japan, there are people who need to hear of Jesus and trust in Him. We believe God has called us here, perhaps even for such a time as this.

The words of the National Anthem are a prayer asking God to be at work in our country. In times like these, our need for Him is more evident. Pray that the people of NZ would look to the God of all comfort.

New Kids on the Block

2011-03-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

Ever since Nigel Pollock took over as the National Director of TSCF, the desire has been to grow the TSCF team and particularly to develop an increasing number of Kiwi staff. Over 3 years ago, when we moved to NZ, we became part of that vision and have had in mind that we want to see Kiwis raised up to reach Kiwis with the gospel, as well as having a larger staff team to enable us to potentially do more.

In the past few months, we have been thrilled to see both those things happen. We thank God for that & rejoice in it, but also want to see the work continue to grow further.

The end of January saw the TSCF team gather just outside of Nelson (at the North of the South Island) for our annual Staff & Families Retreat. There felt like there had been a significant growth in the "family" as over 70 of us joined together for an extended weekend of fun, family, friendship & fellowship. The whole concept of "whanau" (pronounced farn-oh & meaning "extended family") has been an enjoyable learning for us since we arrived in NZ. Here, the wider family is as important as what we term "close family", and the inclusive attitude towards whanau has been something we have enjoyed and benefited from.

With the presence of 4 pregnant women at Staff & Families, we are anticipating further growth in future years!

A few weeks later, it was great to join with a number of new staff & Minterns at our New Staff Orientation. Particularly thrilling was to see 4 Kiwis joining staff, with Simon Rabbidge in Lincoln, Erin Robinson in Christchurch, Richard Deeble in Wellington (Erin & Richard have both previously done MIntY) & Robyn Drake in Auckland. We thank God for each of them. We also have 3 new Team Leaders, including Gina Wong, who has taken over the leadership of the Wellington team from me.

I led the new staff in thinking about evangelism being at the core of who we are and what we do. I asked each staff member to write what they saw their role entailing, but made sure that it reflected the priority that outreach is to us. Below is my "job description". We had some fun with "outtakes" of the pictures, as well as the "serious" ones.

We are deliberately emphasising the priority of evangelism as a movement, both as individuals within the work, as well as in our student groups. We are convinced that this is at the heart of who we are and what we do, and it's been great to see and hear stories and examples of people taking this on board.

Since I've called this post "New Kids on the Block" & Carswell number 2 is on its way in the next week or so, I thought a few pictures of Sam may be in order. He continues to bring us much joy and mischief. "Rascal" is a word that was invented for Sam. In recent weeks, he's joined a local group called "Little Dribblers" which allows youngsters to get used to football skills - he loves it and has been a good activity for dad & Sam to enjoy together.

Thank you for your prayers for us as a family. Of course, we would appreciate your prayers for Jen & the baby in particular, as she is due to go in to hospital on Tues 29th.

Until tomorrow, when I will post on the Christchurch earthquake, Ka kite ano - until I see you again...

January to March - snapshots of student ministry

2011-03-21T16:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a while.

After an absence of a few months, there's loads to catch up on. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. That's good enough for me - this post will have a few pictures from the past few months, but I still believe words are important.

Thinking about all that's gone on in the past few months, some of the events require their own blogpost with space to reflect and describe what's been happening. Rather than try and cram everything into one post, I'll try to post one a day during this next working week which should bring us up to date.

Having said all that, sometimes we use too many words when fewer will do. In recent months, I've become a more regular Tweeter. It's not a perfect medium, but it's fun, brief, instant and different. I quite like it. If you want to see what I say in 140 characters or less, you can follow my Twitter account here.

Way back at the end of January, I joined a number of our staff, students & grads at the Parachute music festival. Parachute occurs during the final weekend of the summer school holidays, and attracts over 20,000 people to it. Held in the lovely sounding Mystery Creek, just outside of the city of Hamilton, it is a unique event in the NZ context.

Each year, TSCF has a stand at the Global Expo tent, which profiles mission agencies from around the country. Through the hard work of a number of folks, but particularly Gillian Wildgoose, the scope of our presence at Parachute has increased.

Bringing together some of the students who attend, we have a base which students can camp around, share meals together, chat about & reflect on their experiences of the weekend. We also seek to take turns manning the TSCF stand, so that we can connect well with prospective & current students, TSCF grads & supporters, as well as church leaders who may know of others who could benefit from the work of TSCF.

The mullet - not one of TSCF's better publicity strategies.

A number of folk I talked with described this Parachute as the best they had been to. It was certainly the vibe I picked up during the weekend. Primarily a music event, the standard of the music was generally top notch. I spent most time at the Main Stage and the Massive tent.

Leading the way at the Main Stage was Chris Tomlin, who did a great job of focusing on Christ, singing His praises & allowing the glory to go to God. It was simple, humble and God honoring.

At Massive, the majority of the artists are Pacific Islanders and Maori, and bring a unique flavour to the weekend. It's a part of NZ life that Jen and I have enjoyed in different ways, so to hear their music & get a feel for their enthusiasm for the gospel was a good experience!

Mr T in the Massive tent

This year, much of the hype before the event was about Louis Giglio, making his first appearance in NZ. I have to say I'm not a huge fan of "Christian celebrity", though recognise that's not necessarily the doing of the celebrity themselves. However, Mr Giglio lived up to the hype. His opening gambit of "All I have to speak of is Jesus - my talk will start with & end with Jesus. I have nothing else to say" won me over early on. It was great to see him open the Bible and speak of Jesus plainly from it. His passion for God's glory was evident.

Probably the highlight for me over the weekend was seeing the Prime Minister on stage answering a few questions, and participating in the event. Later on, the leader of the Opposition got his chance in a smaller setting, which allowed him to talk in greater detail. I won't let all my political leanings come out on here, but I enjoyed his friendliness and banter with the crowd. John Key's warmth and engaging, casual style wins people over. If you want to see his time on stage, you can watch it here.

As NZ's biggest Christian event, Parachute is an event we need to engage with. It's a fun event which many of our students go to. We realise we're only beginning to scratch the surface of the possibilities it brings, and looking forward we are keen to develop ideas which connect with what's going on at Parachute, as well as exploring new avenues for evangelism, potential students and supporters in the work of TSCF. Do pray for Gillian, myself and some others who will be looking to build on this as we prepare for Parachute 2012 and beyond.

It's been a while

2011-03-14T01:12:00.000-07:00

I've not posted on here for a while - a combination of a number of things has led to this. I'm keen to restart, but just thought I'd check in to see if anyone cares?! Let me know if you are there, you care & if you want, what you have appreciated from previous blogs.

The Best of Times...the Worst of Times

2010-12-01T02:01:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy few weeks since I last posted, and there's been much happening both in the student world and in New Zealand.

Two weeks ago, our end of year Student Leadership Conference took place. It comes after the final exams of the year and before many students head home for the summer. I was involved with the leading of the second of five tracks we run for the students. Tracks 1-3 are for Undergraduates as they go through their University lives, track 4 was a new track for Post-Graduate students and track 5 for Medical students (run by CMF). Most of the students in the second track are on their student group's leadership team, and so we sought to invest in them as disciples, but specifically as leaders.

For our track, we took the theme 'This is Your Life', which attempted to work through key areas of their Christian lives. As the week progressed, we widened the net to make it 'This is Our Life', emphasising the communal aspect of leadership, before closing the track with 'This is Our Response', where we brought the week to a conclusion with both an individual and a collective response time. The TSCF team for our track worked well and our input seemed to be appreciated and helpful.

During the week, we had Bible input from Pete Collier, an Anglican based down in Christchurch. He led us faithfully from 1 Samuel 7-9 and it was great to see students with open Bibles lapping up God's Word. Each day, the students had spent time in small groups doing inductive Bible study on the day's passage. It has become a particular feature of the SLC and it's great watching students get stuck into the Bible.

For me, one of the highlights of the week came in the first two sessions. Debbie Flood, who had recently won the Gold medal in the World Rowing Championships held at Lake Karapiro, NZ came along to the conference. I interviewed her about life as a Christian rower, and hearing stories of her sports involvement, the challenges and joys, and particularly about her Christian witness to the rowing community. Debbie is from just outside of Leeds and has been involved in a number of events with my dad & brother Jonathan, so it was good to be able to make the most of her being in the country. She is great to work with as she loves to talk (for a BBC article/interview - click & listen here), but in that is really clear about her love for Jesus being more important than anything rowing ever brings. We were thankful she made the effort to join us.

The following morning, we had managed to source two rowing machines, and held a competition rowing against Debbie. She first raced an impressive time for 500m, and then we had a number of students who volunteered to try and beat it. It brought a good fun time for the students. Sport is such an important part of Kiwi life, and yet very rarely is it engaged with well by Christians. We would love to see a generation of fine Christian athletes competing for NZ in years to come, and also made the most of Debbie being around to have some discussions around that.

All in all, it was a great week. We had the largest number of students for an SLC ever, and it was super that about 35 students came from Wellington. The week was the next step in our growth, and there is a real sense that the work is continuing to grow. We thank God for good times and the growth in the students over the week.

During the course of the week, we heard news from the Pike River mine in the South Island. It was some way away from where we were meeting, but the whole nation was affected by the tragedy. As we waited for news from Greymouth, we prayed and were saddened after the conference to hear that all 29 lives had been lost. I've not heard any news on whether any of the miners were believers, but we long that across these islands, the many people who are spiritually lost without hope would be found. We continue to pray for the families and friends of those affected by the disaster. In small town New Zealand, the effects of events like these are widely felt.

After the SLC, I headed down to the Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island for our end of year MIntY conference. It was good to be able to travel with Jen and Sam, and to share with the MInterns about evangelism and discipleship for the long. We long to see students go on to be graduates who live as passionately for Jesus in their old age as they do in their youth.

The academic year has come to a close. The sun is most definitely shining! For me, the next few weeks till Christmas are mostly spent on finishing the year well - end of year reviews, catching up on admin and making preparations for 2011, which should be a huge year here in NZ.

Whilst we celebrate and thank God for the best of times, we recognise that others are facing harder times. Tomorrow, there is a memorial service for the 29 miners. We remember them and pray for their grieving families. Across the globe, good friends of mine, Martin and Debbie Downes heard news this week that their youngest daughter, Keziah (9) has a brain tumour. She is scheduled for surgery tomorrow also. Again, our thoughts and prayers are with her and them as they face difficult times.

When life is good and when it is much harder, the words of Henry Lyte in 'Abide with Me' ring true
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

Lausanne III - How was it for you?

2010-11-04T00:57:00.000-07:00

Last week, I arrived back from the Lausanne III congress. As with any conference or trip away, people always ask "How was it?" It's a hard question to answer, and it's even more difficult to answer in a short space on a blog.

Over the past few days, I've attempted to reflect on my time and experiences at Lausanne. I wrote a post, which I put up on here for a while, but decided to keep it for myself - I think my reflections were part of my processing of all I had experienced. Having said that, I think it is good to be able to communicate one's experiences of an event, some of the highs and lows. Having spent a number of hours writing reflections previously, I'll keep this one deliberately brief and to the point. Here are some of my thoughts on my time at Lausanne:

Highs:

* Privilege- It was an immense honour to be involved in an event of 4500 Christian leaders from across the world. One of my abiding sentiments from the Congress was the sense of privilege that I could be there.

* Humbling - it was humbling to hear stories of believers in different contexts who have proclaimed Jesus and suffered for Him in ways that I never have. Particularly significant for me was the testimony of the 18 year old school girl from North Korea, whose parents trusted Christ. Her mum then died of leukemia & her dad went back to the country & is now missing, presumed dead

* Brilliant. Spending time with old friends and new from around the world who are involved in evangelism. From Meryl, my Uni friend who became a Christian in the first weeks of Uni, to Michael, my evangelist friend who shares Jesus in Universities. From Julie-Ann, my IFES colleague in Australia, to Julia, with the IFES work in Germany. Chatting with the parents of 2 of my Relay workers & hearing how they going on in Jesus was a greater thrill than they probably realised. Meeting with former colleagues like Emma & spending time with current ones, meeting IFES partners I know, like Edith, Tom, Zeff, Samuil, Colin & meeting ones I didn't - Natasha, Daniel, Dorcas, Mirek, Ewa and Igor. And making connections with friends in the South Pacific, particularly Netina and Fijian friends, friends from the South Pacific, like Pete Saunders, as well as friends of my family, such as Datev an Armenian in Syria. Each was significant in their own way & each formed a major highlight of the Congress for me.

The Maori proverb "What is the most important thing? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata" rings true - it is people, it is people, it is people. Thankfully, Daniel Bourdanne reminded us that IFES is about intentionally investing in people, and it hit home once again.

*Edifying - I found some of the speakers particularly edifying. Some left good things to chew over, whilst some left you with an 'unusual taste'. I particularly enjoyed Os Guinness' session on 'the Importance of Truth', I enjoyed the personality and energy Ajith Fernando, Calisto Odede, Ben Kwashi & Ramez Atallah brought, along with Becky Pippert, Michael Ramsden and Lindsay Brown's commitment to preaching Christ crucified. Vaughan Roberts gave probably the best exposition I've heard him give.

* Heart-warming. In one of the first sessions, we were shown a film clip of Billy Graham at the 1974 Congress where he explicitly stated "This is a congress of world evangelisation. We're enthusiastic about all the many things churches properly do, but our calling is to a specific sector of the church's responsibility -evangelism." It was great to hear such a clear call to focus on evangelism & be reminded of all the good Billy has done under God. Praise God for him.

* Bold - I felt it was a particularly courageous move to have the entire congress set around tables of six people from around the world. It was probably a logistical nightmare, but the concept was brilliant. To give some of the time in the main session to inductive Bible study was great too.

* Global. On the whole, I enjoyed much of the music, but particularly the multi-cultural variety. It wasn't always right or and theologically rich as it could have been, but the multi-cultural mix was enjoyable. I particularly found the Arabic song and an Urdu song from Pakistan both enjoyable and moving.

* Inspiring. The day trip I went on to a local church who had set up an HIV/AIDS clinic was amazing. From a church of 300 members, the clinic had developed into a ministry with 170 staff. Living Hope was one of the most amazing local church initiatives I have seen.

Looking back, the Congress had some great experiences. However, it wasn't without its challenges and disappointments. In no particular order, here are some of the things that I found more challenging:

* Leadership. The Lausanne leadership seemed to be made up of mostly people who would fit into the middle-aged category. We need these people. However, if leadership is to be dynamic, creative and visionary, we need a younger generation of leaders also. Ramez Attalah spoke at the 1974 Lausanne in his 20s. Where were the younger leaders in 2010?

* English only. It saddened me that on stage, we had very few people speak in their native tongue. It was thrilling when Daniel Bourdanne announced he would pray in French. I heard the arguments about translation and saving time, but don't buy them! English is the only language I speak fluently (and that's debatable), but the church is not English only. We sang in other languages - why not speaking/listening to other languages?

* The central message. From what I saw, this could have been a church conference on any topic. Evangelism and the message of the cross did not seem to be the central features. Billy Graham's clarion call in '74 was not true of 2010. I wished that we had heard more specifically about evangelism, and more directly about the cross of Jesus.

* The closing ceremony saddened me. It felt more 'Disneyfied' than it should, and though the liturgy should have warmed me, I left feeling rather cold.

* Genuine dialogue - didn't seem to happen in the programme. Speakers seemed to be kept separate, sessions were packed, free time was minimal. The Congress felt "stage-down" rather than "grass-roots up". The CT2010 Commitment seemed to have been pre-prepared, and the further statements look like they'll be made from behind a closed door, rather than from genuine engagement and dialogue. In the Bible study times, and even in prayer, we were rushed, so that discussion or conversation was interrupted or frustrated.

* Prophetic voices were not heard. In 1974, Stott and Graham led with a prophetic edge, in 1989, Escobar & Padilla came to the fore. In 2010, there seemed to be a lack of direction or vision. Much of what I heard was what I could hear through reading books, or listening to sermons. I would have loved to be inspired, roused and challenged in the task of evangelising the whole world.

* Americanization. I have to be careful with this. I love the USA, have lived there & learned so much from America and American friends. I believe the USA plays a vital part in the church and should do. However, it is not the only voice that should heard, and should not be the dominant culture. From the dress code we were given, to the Unreached People Groups session, even to the Closing Ceremony, the Congress had a slightly American flavor. I didn't want a British flavour, or Western flavour, but a worldwide flavour where all cultures were recognised, so that the task of global evangelisation could be achieved.

Attempting to quantify, assess and evaluate the merit of the Congress is hard. It's $16 million budget is vast. Add to that the travel and accommodation costs, and multiple working hours, and the question must be asked "was it worth it?" Ultimately, I don't know, but those are not the questions I was left asking.

"Should Lausanne exist or would the goal of world evangelisation be better served by some other movement or work?" was one of them, but more importantly, "What was God saying to me, TSCF, NZ, our region & the global church?" has already got me thinking, talking, praying and agitating, so that world evangelisation is at the forefront of my agenda in the coming years. I thank God for the privilege of attending Lausanne, and pray that the impact would be felt in the years to come.

I have found Rene Padilla's perspective on Lausanne to be very helpful. One of the respected figures of global Evangelicalism, I feel much in agreement with what he writes. You can get it here in Spanish, or have use the Google tool at the top of that page to translate it into English.

Guinness Is Good For You

2010-10-20T09:56:00.003-07:00

I had some Guinness yesterday morning and it was good for me. Not the black stuff, though my doctor tells me it is good from time to time. This was the real thing – Dr Os Guinness, great great grandson of the Dublin brewer. A social critic, acclaimed thinker and speaker of great repute, in his fifteen short minutes, he showed us why.

Given the briefest of moments to share something of significance on ‘truth’, not a word was wasted. In clearly measured and meaningful tones, Guinness reminded us that “truth is a person, not a proposition”. He showed us that truth matters and that the gospel truth speaks to our highest dilemmas and deepest traumas of society.

He gave six reasons why truth matters supremely:

1 – Only a high view of truth honours the God of truth. Truth is first and foremost a matter of

theology. Those who weaken truth weaken their view of God.

2 – Only a high view of truth reflects how we come to know & love God.

3 – Only a high view of truth empowers our best human enterprises. As Christians, we think in believing and believe in thinking.

4 – Only a high view of truth can undergird our proclamation and defence of the faith.

5 – Only a high view of truth is sufficient for combating evil & hypocrisy.

6 – Only a high view of truth will help our growth and transformation in Christ.

Elsewhere I’ve posted some frustrations that evangelism hasn’t always been central and the dominant theme so far in this congress. Guinness clearly illustrated that he believes in the importance of evangelism, and in his analysis of truth, he helped me see afresh the truth of the gospel and the importance it plays in the proclamation of Jesus. I don’t often partake of Guinness, but having drunk it in, I’ll be tempted to indulge more often.

Pass the baton!

2010-10-20T09:43:00.001-07:00

(Spotted in Cape Town - No Vacancies?)

I’m passionate about a number of different things in life. One of the things you’ll hear me talk about regularly is sport. I love most, but Rugby League is one of the finest. However, my passion for sport pales into eternal insignificance compared with the joy of knowing Jesus personally and the privilege of making Him known globally.

You may wonder why I’m talking about things of relative insignificance like Rugby League, when I’m at a conference on global evangelisation. Believe it or not, I’ve seen similarities between Rugby League (& sport in general) and the task of world evangelisation. In the midst of checking the news on an intermittent internet connection, one BBC website article stood out – it was discussing the task of bringing through a new generation of younger leaders who would carry the baton in the English Rugby League team. For England RL, the difficulty has been exacerbated by a number of significant injuries to older players, forcing a squad for the upcoming Four Nations tournament with only two players over 30and three players aged 21.

I realise you may not know or care about Rugby League. To be honest, I love the sport, but in the grand scheme of things, it is nothing. I do care passionately about seeing Jesus proclaimed to the whole world, and particularly to those who have not yet heard of Him. The similarity between the two was not lost on me – sat here at Lausanne, the overwhelming feeling for me has been of the old school holding fort and preventing a new generation from taking the baton and running with it.

For success in leadership, whether it be in sport or in Christian leadership, there must be a correct balance between allowing older and wiser heads to exert their influence and younger, probably more risk-taking leaders to give it a go. One of the many failings in British sport has been the repeated retention of the old guard with no attempt or desire to bring in and develop a younger generation. My fear is that in the task of world evangelisation that the same is being done.

Seeing this in action in a world congress of global leaders is heart-breaking and disappointing. It leaves me disappointed and at times, despairing. However, I’m not prepared to leave it there. Sometimes (as in the England RL team currently) due to circumstances, there is no choice but to bring through younger leaders. However, there are also times when younger leaders leave the older gate-keepers with no choice. If younger leaders provide an excellent example in spite of opposition and take up the baton, no matter what resistance to it that they face, the church will be all the better for it.

I’m reminded of those great words from an old man to a young man “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12) I will take up the baton of leadership, I will encourage other younger leaders to take it up. I will learn from those who have gone before, but I won’t let them keep hold of the baton. If we are to see the world reached with the gospel of Jesus Christ, then we need the older people to do that, but we must release the reins and allow younger people to lead, to take the initiative in global evangelism.

Privilege & prayers

2010-10-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

This morning, I heard from a good mate of mine. It's someone I would love to see trust in Jesus and follow Him, but someone I'm miles away from, so my contact with them is sporadic. As I heard their news & enjoyed friendship, I couldn't help but think of how I want God to work in their life & how He has called me to be a faithful friend and witness to them. It's what I call nitty-gritty Christianity - the day to day discipleship issues of living the Christian life & seeking to bring other people to Jesus, so they would meet Him, love Him, trust Him & follow Him.

At the end of this week, I head away to the Lausanne III congress. In 1974, Billy Graham & John Stott (among others) were significant in bringing together Christian leaders from across the globe to "reframe the Christian mission of evangelisation in a world rife with social, political, economic, and religious upheaval". Out of that, came the Lausanne Covenant, which articulated Christian conviction and mission to see the whole world evangelised with the Good News of Jesus. From that initial event, numerous other gatherings have taken place around the world, notably the Lausanne II gathering in Manila in 1989.

I feel privileged to have been invited to the congress through my involvement in evangelism in the IFES world. My friend Lindsay Brown, is the Executive Chairman of the Congress. In chatting with him when he stepped down from his position as the IFES General Secretary said "If God gives me another 10 years or more of active work, I want to use them to bring as many people to heaven with me as possible." I like that kind of thinking. Lindsay is a man of action and has committed himself to investing in developing evangelists in Europe through the IFES movements there. It's that kind of action I would like to see happen here in NZ, the South Pacific and beyond. In 1989, a group from Scotland went to Manila & from that, Mission Scotland formed and has been significant in sharing Jesus in Scotland. I'd love to see that happen in the countries I feel deep affection for (NZ, England, Armenia, Turkey & N.Ireland), the countries I have connections with (Wales, Ecuador, Russia, India, USA, PNG, Vanuatu, Cambodia, Japan, Spain, Argentina, South Africa, Niger, some of the Eurasian countries & countries in Asia, Australia, Fiji & many more) & countries I have no connection with at all.

As I head away with colleagues from TSCF & a group of about 20 from across NZ, I feel a mix of emotions:
* Privilege for the invitation when so many who would love to be there can't.
* Expectancy. I look forward to hearing, telling & musing on stories & ideas of evangelism from across the world.
* Excitement at the chance to meet with old friends & make new friends. Already chatting with a friend who serves as General Secretary for a European IFES movement in a lonely situation has excited me about meeting him and encouraging each other in the work.
* Thankfulness to BMI (the airline who I don't always feel thankful for!) for frequent flier miles that I was able to use for my flights.
* Sadness that Jen & Sam can't come with me. We knew when we married that the things God has called me to do will involve time away from each other. I am thankful to God for Jen & her regular sacrifices which enable me to be involved in my work.

I have some fears:
* I fear that in the midst of another big conference that the primacy of the gospel & the telling of it becomes lost in some of the big ideas the congress is hoping to cover. Lausanne is not just another conference, it's not just a gathering of Christian leaders worldwide to discuss theology or ideas - it's a movement to mobilise world Evangelical leaders to collaborate for world evangelisation.
* The possibility of the congress just being a talking shop concerns me. Again, talking with Lindsay Brown he recognises that danger and is committed to endeavouring to prevent that. The real work is at the coal face globally as each attendee goes back to their home situation to speak of Jesus and develop/encourage others to share Jesus daily.
* I am concerned the Congress could be a fortress for the bastion of "the old guard" who should pass on the baton of leadership in the task of world evangelisation but who can't or won't let go for whatever reason. This morning, I watched some of the Relay races at the Commonwealth games. The teams that did not finish or were disqualified were all at fault in the same areas - they either dropped the baton or held onto it too long. May God protect us from spiritually making the same mistake.

Then I have some hopes:
* I hope that Lausanne III will spur me on in my work, that it will refresh me in my own evangelism and inspire, challenge & encourage me as I seek to help our TSCF students in their evangelism.
* I hope that the NZ party are similarly spurred on so that together we can see NZ reached with the gospel of Jesus.
* I hope that worldwide, this congress is a water-shed in world evangelisation - that it's an event that we look back at and say "Surely God was in it."

Above all, I have some prayers. They are quite simple really - that God would use this event to speak to me that in my life and work, I would do my part to see the whole world reached with the Good News of Jesus and Him crucified. My prayer is that God would not just speak to me, but to each attendee, as well as those connecting in with Lausanne from around the world, so that from it, we would have a great sense of clarity and purpose, a renewed energy and enthusiasm, and a sustained dependence and trust in God to do His work as we do the work He has called us to.

And in case I forget, the task of world evangelisation is completed one person at a time. So, my prayer has to be that God would save my friend (& others) and in His goodness & plan to use me in the privilege of being His ambassador and witness.

Remembering Grandma Carswell

2010-09-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, my Grandma Carswell (dad’s mum) passed from this life into eternity. She was 91 years old and had lived a very full life. We are obviously sad at her passing, but as Christians, we don’t grieve without any hope, knowing that she trusted in Jesus and so has gone to be with Him. One day, we will be reunited with her, as well as being face to face with Jesus.

Living here in NZ, it’s not possible for us to be back in the UK for Grandma’s funeral, so I thought it would be good to remember her and to share some memories online.

Born in Aleppo, Syria, to an Armenian father and a Greek mother, Rhoda Grace Carswell (nee Manoogian) was a refugee from birth. Her family were escaping the genocide of Armenians which occurred between 1915-1917. The stories of God’s goodness on the family and His provision for them are remarkable in their own right, but Grandma’s individual story is equally remarkable. As an infant, she was given little hope of survival, and yet, from the difficult beginnings came an amazing life.

One of the quirkiest facts about Grandma was that she went to the same school (Brummana High School in Beirut, Lebanon) as both Osama Bin Laden and rather bizarrely, Dom Joly! Neither were her contemporaries.

She grew up in Beirut and studied at the American University of Beirut. It was during the war, whilst working as a secretary, that she met my Grandfather and eventually married. After marrying, they moved to the UK and settled in Leeds, where they lived for the rest of their lives.

My memories of Grandma Carswell are happy ones, but several characteristics stand out:

Hospitality

Earlier this week, Nigel Pollock commented on a sign he saw outside a Kiwi Pub which said “Hospitality is making people feel at home even if you wish they were.” Grandma was the perfect hostess. She knew how to make people feel at home and did her best to ensure people felt that way. I could give numerous examples of this, but perhaps the best is that after entertaining people, Grandma used to keep records of what she’d fed people, if they’d particularly liked something, what they’d talked about etc, so that if they were ever to return, she wouldn’t produce the same meal twice, unless of course, they particularly enjoyed something. She’d also ask follow-up questions to the areas of conversation from their previous visit asking with great detail. I know all this to my cost, as in my teenaged years, I once commented how I liked a beetroot relish that Grandma had made and for several years, I received beetroot relish with every meal. Eventually I had to confess I was no longer as big a fan as I used to be!

Communication

Grandma was from a pre-computer & mobile phone era, and yet she was simply unsurpassed in her communication. She was a letter-writer extraordinaire. In the years before arthritis affected her hands so badly, she would type letters that were then sent worldwide. In more recent years, they were hand-written, but all demonstrated a desire to communicate widely. There were very few times at her house when she didn’t have a letter that needed posting as we passed the Post Box on our way home. But she was not simply a good letter writer, but also a good talker! Conversation never really stopped with Grandma, and she used those skills well to speak to family & friends worldwide on the phone.

Resourcefulness

Being brought up as a refugee, Grandma knew the value of being resourceful. She never took anything for granted and was ahead of her time in recycling before it became fashionable. Anyone who received a Christmas present from her soon learned not to thank her for what they appeared to have received by the appearance of the packaging. Many a time would I have received Weetabix, or something else entirely inappropriate, if I had not opened the present more fully! Whilst there was an amusing side to this, there was also the salutary lessons we learned in appreciating all that God has given us, and not being wasteful, particularly in relation to food. To this day, I dislike wasting food in any way, and I take that as something Grandma passed on.

A wonderful marriage

Grandma & Grandad were married for over 50 years. Apparently, in that time, they never once had an argument. At Grandad’s funeral, it was commented on how he described Grandma as “his rock”. They had a wonderful marriage, where their commitment to each other and love and care for each other was clearly evident. They both contributed to this and it speaks volumes of them.

Faithfulness and simplicity

From my earliest days at Grandma's house, one of the abiding memories was that of breakfast with my Grandparents. Without fail, we used to have breakfast (Shredded Wheat & raisins on top), which was supplemented by spiritual nourishment. Every day, they would read out loud from ‘Our Daily Bread’ – a collection of thoughts based around a Bible reading, following by a simple prayer for the day ahead. It was a simple time each morning, and yet in the simplicity was a profundity.

By making time for God at the start of the day, they were making a statement that God was at the centre of their lives.

Grandma’s life and death will probably not hit the headlines. However, she has had a significant effect on many people’s lives. We grieve because she is no longer with us, and we miss her company, friendship and character. But, we don’t grieve as people who have no hope. We have a sure and certain hope that she is with Jesus forever in heaven. Grandma made it clear that she was trusting in Jesus in her life, but also in her death.yes"> She knew that Jesus had died for her sins and that through Him, she had experienced forgiveness and the gift of eternal life. As the Bible says
“We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God

will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him.”
(1 Thessalonians

4:14)
We know she has gone to
be with Jesus, who promises that “There
will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of
things has passed away.”
(Revelation 21:4)
What an amazing promise from the One who never fails.

Protecting Your Faith From the Shocks of Life

2010-09-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

The past weekend was spent in Auckland at the TSCF Catalyst Conference. Catalyst is our Graduates, Post-Graduates, Academics & Workplace ministry. It's part of our strategy here, that our students go on to become graduates & we long to see the gospel at the heart of NZ & NZ at the heart of world mission.

Mark Grace (my colleague whom I first met in 2006 when I led a short term mission team out here), heads up the work & has done a good job bringing together people from all walks of life from across NZ. The weekend was held at Laidlaw College (the former Bible College of New Zealand), named after one of NZ's most well known Christian businessmen, Robert Laidlaw. As founder as one of the largest department store chains in NZ - 'Farmers', he is a good of example of a Christian at the heart of society. He was also known for his evangelistic passion, being the writer of a booklet called 'The Reason Why', which has been used worldwide & has over 50 million copies in print.
The Amazing (Mark) Grace

The weekend was titled 'Christ in the Workplace'. Nigel Pollock led the Bible teaching, and then there were 18 tracks reflecting different vocations and areas of interest. I joined "The Gospel & Marketing" led by Prof Peter Thirkell, from the Business School at Victoria University.
It was great seeing academics & those in the workplace interact with the gospel and their area of interest. It was probably the first time I've heard anyone begin to reflect well on the implications and applications of the gospel in the world of marketing. If our Christian students and graduates are to make a difference in the world around them, surely we need them to be thinking Christianly about all they are involved in, particularly in the workplace?
For me, one of the real highlights was meeting and then hearing Andrew Thorburn, the CEO of the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ), which happens to be our bank over here. An Aussie, who studied over here & then married a Kiwi, he is fairly new to the company and shared on the Saturday night his story of conversion and then growing as a disciple in the business world around him. Again, it was good to hear of the investment of faithful Christians in running Alpha and Christianity Explored courses which led to him coming to know Jesus for himself, and then the investment (no pun intended) of Christians who have sought to see him grow in his love and walk with God. Andrew's thoughts on leadership as a Christian were a helpful tonic, and his emphasis on being people-centred was a good reminder that people are at the core of all we do.
On the Saturday morning of the conference, we awoke to news of the earthquake in Christchurch. Christchurch is some 600 miles South of Auckland (where the conference was held) & approximately 300 miles South of Wellington (where we live). Needless to say, we felt nothing in Auckland, though in Wellington friends were woken by the tremors. We have a number of friends and colleagues in Christchurch. Tim and Mark (TSCF Staff based in Canterbury - the region affected) were both with me in Auckland, but Mark's family and Tim's house have both been affected. It is remarkable that no-one lost their lives. The news coverage (which has been devoted to Canterbury & the earthquake damage) has demonstrated that it was a miracle that there were no fatalities. This is mainly due to the earthquake striking in the small hours of the morning, but also because many Kiwi homes are built of wood, to withstand such shocks. Christchurch is often described as "the most English city in NZ", primarily because it has more brick and stone buildings, many of which have been destroyed (or will have to be because of the quake). Both Universities in Canterbury, at Christchurch and Lincoln, are closed this week because of earthquake damage and uncertain times lie ahead. It is believed that over 100,000 homes have been damaged and early estimates of the cost of repair will be in the region of NZ$2bn, (approximately £1bn).
St John's Latimer Square Church, where colleagues of ours go to church (or went!)

However, in the midst of all this, there is much to be thankful for. Unlike recent countries who have faced earthquakes and natural disasters, NZ is well equipped for situations such as this. Although power and water supplies have been affected, most people are able to live under the shelter of their own homes, and the government is directing funds immediately towards the care of those affected in the city. Apparently, since the earthquake struck, people across the country have been taking precautions so that they are ready for any future shocks. Effectively, that's what we're trying to do with Catalyst - to shock proof people's faith, so that they are ready to live out the gospel in the workplace, whatever the situation they face.
I have been struck by the pragmatic response of the Cantabrians affected by the earthquake. It's a typically Kiwi, "She'll be right" attitude. Yes, it could have been much worse, but they still need our prayers, especially for wisdom as they respond to the challenges of the days ahead.
One last thing, as I sign off...a special shout to my nephew Theo (Hannah & Andy's youngest boy), who broke his femur last week whilst bouncing on a trampoline. He's only 2, and after surgery, has been placed in a cast (or if you're from Leeds, "a pot"!), which restricts his movement for a number of weeks. The Peace family's response has been typically calm and pragmatic, but my thoughts & prayers go to them too. Here's to a quick recovery Theo!

He's got the whole world in His hands

2010-08-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

As I write, in the background are the unforgettable voices of the African Children's Choir singing "He's got the whole world in His hands." It's a simple reminder of a great theological truth - that God is the God of the whole world, not just a particular country, culture or people. In recent years, I think my view of the world has become enlarged as I've travelled and lived away from the safety and familiarity of home.
Just over six weeks ago, dad & I enjoyed a few days in the Pacific Island of Vanuatu. Recently voted "the happiest country on earth", this group of islands in the South Pacific lived up to its reputation. Everywhere we went, big, beaming grins smiled at us. Particularly memorable was our arrival at Port Vila airport & the "privilege" of queuing at immigration being serenading by a local string band. Although only there for a few days, it was an experience I will never forget.
Whilst down in this part of the world, dad was keen to make the most of every opportunity, and so we explored the possibility of spending time with a missionary Pastor, Steve Gibb, with whom TSCF had made contact through our partnership with Langham Preaching & Paul Windsor. My colleague, Andy Shudall had spent time in Vanuatu a few months previously and had built a friendship with Steve, particularly out of his work at the University of the South Pacific Law School in Vanuatu.
So, through the kind invitation of Steve, dad & myself travelled North to Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu (formerly the New Hebrides). You may be forgiven for thinking "Where's that?!" - apparently, when the ni Vanuatu (people of Vanuatu) travel, they are often asked that question, particularly as their passports are currently hand-written documents from a country few have heard of.
I suspect dad has never preached under a banner like this before, but I hope he's preached under its meaning many times.
Over the course of the long weekend, we visited (& dad spoke at) the International Church Youth Group, as well as their main service, the Chinese church in Port Vila, and a student group at the University of the South Pacific (USP). It was great to partner with Steve & Jane Gibb and their wonderful family. They are a delightful family who in many ways had the gifts, talents, discipline and charm of the Von Trapp family, without the military enforcement of them! Steve is originally from the US, whilst his wife, Jane, is from Australia, and they have made their home in Port Vila seeking to grow a work in that city.
For me, it was a helpful time understanding some of NZ's Pacific influences and seeing them in their original context. The time at the churches were worthwhile and dad's preaching was warmly received. However, for me, the highlight of dad's speaking came on our final night. One of the students, Godfrey, who had been over to the TSCF MidYear Conference had invited his friends and acquaintances to a night organised by Steve & Jane, which was advertised as "spiritual refreshment". As it was the University holidays, many students were away, but Godfrey rounded up every student who was on campus and a happy group gathered for our meeting. We sang, chatted & dad spoke, before we finished the evening with good food. Among the students there, were folks from Vanuatu, Kiribati, the Solomon Islands, Fiji & Samoa. The inter-island relationships were evident, and the potential for growth clear. It was particularly thrilling to see Godfrey enthusiastic about sharing Jesus with his friends, following the teaching of the TSCF conference.
As well as the speaking opportunities, we were also able to see a little bit of the island of Efate on which we were based. On one of the days, we caught a ferry across a lagoon to a neighbouring island of Erakor. On the island, as well as the gorgeous beach are far more memorable monuments. The graves of some of the first missionaries are on this island, and then a little further round the island is a monument commemorating four Samoan evangelists who were the first to bring the gospel to Vanuatu. The grave of Amanda Bruce, the wife of Rev MacKenzie was remarkable. Apparently, her last words (after 21 years of missionary service) were "I know that Jesus is mine and I am His." However, all the more remarkable is that next to her grave was a headstone with the names of her 3 sons, Joseph, Arthur and Walter, who all died within a 3 year period, none making it to more than 19 months old. This in itself is significant, however her testimony lives on with the comment above the names "Thy will be done." Oh for such a godly attitude to the trials & tribulations of life.
We enjoyed some stunning scenery and some new experiences. I wouldn't say dad or I were naturals at snorkelling, but we enjoyed it nonetheless. The trip to the Tanna Coffee Roastery, where we met Moses, who had competed against Usain Bolt in the Beiijing Olympics was good fun. The Scripture Union campsite was also a memorable experience.
Our prayer is that the connections with Vanuatu will continue. Steve & Jane are doing a good job of developing a work in Port Vila, and through Andy & Paul and the Langham Partnership, our links will continue. We live in a world that is truly all God's. Our role in being here in NZ is just a small part of seeking to see the gospel go to the ends of the earth - God's part is to grow that fruit and to see it multiplied.
Student gathering at USP, Port Vila.

Life-shaping Experiences

2010-08-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

In the work of student ministry, I believe there are a number of significant activities which lead to the shaping, moulding and making of student leaders who will make an impact on their campuses and beyond. Two of those activities are the regular "one to one" intentional discipleship and the larger scale camps & conferences.
I have promised that I would report on the TSCF Mid Year Conference a little while back. However, I felt it best to couple it with a more recent outworking of the discipling I have been involved in.

This year, the theme of the Mid Year Conference was "This is Jesus". It was a time when we took time to look at Jesus' life and its implications on our lives today. Each morning, we met in small groups to study a passage from John's Gospel, before Nigel spoke to us from that passage.
As usual, he was simple, creative and clear in his explanation and application of the text. In the evenings, it was over to dad to teach on sharing Jesus with our unbelieving friends and family in a way that makes sense. It was good to have dad speak & bring his enthusiasm and energy for the task of being witnesses to Jesus.
This is me "welcoming" dad to our TSCF Conference with a hongi. Nigel's welcome is more affectionately known as "a Glasgow Kiss"
We long to see the gospel at the heart of NZ & NZ at the heart of world mission. As part of this bigger goal, we had a special session led by Mark Grace on "The gospel & the NZ story", where he shared how NZ's foundations are built on gospel work done by those who initially came to these shores. In sharing his own passion, he communicated a desire that the gospel would be at the centre of NZ and how we think and tell others our nation's story.
Each day, we enjoyed "Skype the World", where through the wonders of Skype, we spoke with different people involved in missions work around the world - hearing their story, their needs & God's work in their part of the world. It was a highlight of the conference & was great for me a few weeks later to be involved from the other side, being Skyped by the EMW Extra Time conference in Aberystwyth & asked to share our story of God's work in our lives out here in NZ. It was also a joy to have several guests (staff & students) from around the South Pacific & renew our friendship and partnership with them. Below are Tom (General Secretary of TSCF in Papua New Guinea), dad, Nigel & Arteca (on staff with PSFC, Fiji).
Over the week, there was a real sense of momentum gathering as students caught the vision for what could happen on their campuses and in their lives, and understood for themselves how God chooses to use them as His witnesses in spite of all their weakness. As we left from the conference, there was a desire to attempt great things from God, whilst we expected great things from God. It has been my privilege in the weeks after the conference to follow up conversations with staff & students as to how we can make the most of every opportunity God gives us.
As with many of our conferences, it was a real joy to hear of a couple of students coming to faith during the week itself. Whilst our conferences aren't specifically aimed at unbelieving students, it's always a thrill to meet a number who come along with friends, and particularly when we see God working in their lives. It's an even bigger thrill (one we share with the angels in heaven!), when those students come to know Jesus for themselves.
Of course, conferences aren't just about learning. They also provide a time to enjoy fun together. Karaoke has never featured strongly in either dad's or my life (or maybe it has, and dad has never told me?). However, I'll not forget duetting with dad on the Village People classic "YMCA" as we entered the Karaoke competition. It may be fun to stay at the YMCA, but I'm not sure it's fun to hear the YMCA sung by us.
Since conference, it's back to the day to day activities my work entails. Amidst the busyness of all that my work encompasses, it's important never to forget it's about people. Two of the significant people I've been involved with in Wellington have been Josh & Peng. They've been mentioned before on here & in our prayer letters. Peng is a final year Architecture student from Malaysia and former President of the ICF group here. Josh is in his 2nd Year, studying English & History. He's a Wellingtonian through & through. On a weekly basis, I meet with them individually to open God's Word together, to chat through student life and ministry & to help them go on & grow in their walk with God.
Some time back, I felt it would be good to have an extended period of time investing in them. Both are leaders and it seemed prudent to spend a weekend with them talking & thinking about leadership. Over the past weekend, we looked at the book of Nehemiah together, using it as the basis for our thoughts on leadership. I loved opening this great book again & enjoyed Raymond Brown's simple & simply brilliant thoughts on it in his Bible Speaks Today commentary on it.
However, I wanted to ground the lessons learned from Nehemiah's leadership in real life examples. Film is such a powerful tool in illustrating lessons, and given our time constraints worked well in what I was seeking to achieve. We looked at the lives of 3 characters, Sir Ernest Shackleton, William Wilberforce & Eric Liddell. The 3 films based on their lives, Shackleton (with Kenneth Brannagh), Amazing Grace & Chariots of Fire, formed the basis of our thoughts. As we looked at good leadership v godly leadership, it was great to be challenged by their lives, leadership & its impact.
For me personally, these 3 men was a fresh reminder of the potential influence and impact of godly leadership. It was good to read Leonard Sweet's helpful work "Summoned to Lead" before the weekend - in it, he uses Shackleton as an example of good leadership, but more significantly, takes a look at leadership from the audible perspective, rather than a visual one. I need to revisit the work at a later date, but his clarity and fresh angle was helpful to me.
Time away has the potential to be life-shaping. Only time will tell how significant the weekend was for Josh and Peng, but for now, I'll leave you with their thoughts on the weekend, which I share for your encouragement & prayers.
"It was a real privilege to get away for a weekend with Peng and be led in study and discussion by Ben. Three great films, ‘Shackleton’, ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Chariots of Fire’, together with God’s Word (Nehemiah) shaped our understanding of leadership with clear and memorable examples from history. We talked a lot about ‘good’ and ‘godly’ leadership, identifying the qualities necessary for each and the differences and crossovers between them. The three of us aspired to become better, more disciplined and compassionate leaders – men of God.

I was struck by the fact that, often, God’s idea of success can be very different to our own. Shackleton and Liddell, two leaders we looked at, actually failed in what they set out to do, but what they achieved was far greater than anyone could have imagined. I have been challenged to think seriously about God’s calling for my life, that God might lead me and exceed my expectations. Also inspiring was Nehemiah’s passion for Scripture and his discipline in prayer. God was always Nehemiah’s first port of call when confronted by opposition or a daunting task. I am committed to turning this inspiration into action.
I am hugely grateful for all that was organised beforehand, for the food and facilities that allowed for such an enjoyable and productive time away. It was awesome just having the chance to be boys, to share in fellowship and relevant learning. Thanks heaps!" (Josh Irving)

"Ben has been such a huge support to the ministry here in New Zealand! Aside from being an excellent speaker at many of our events, he has been so faithful in working one to one with students, mentoring them, and slowly disciplining them to have a long lasting robust faith. I am so thankful that for about 2 years now, Ben has been meeting with me every week to study parts of the bible, going through topical issues that I may be struggling with, taking the time to know and understand me deeply, praying together, and helping me focus on walking in Jesus' footsteps.
Just this past weekend he has taken the time to organize a retreat for just me and another to look through themes of what Godly leadership means. As well as its similarities and differences with a worldly understanding of leadership. It has helped challenge my walk to be more disciplined in my spiritual faith journey, and I will definitely take lessons learned into my working life and leadership roles. I really appreciate his focused efforts with students this way, as I see it to be very strategic in furthering the work of the gospel. I consider Ben as an important mentor to me, and an honest friend who I can confide with and lovingly rebuke me if I am straying off Gods path. And through this relationship we have, I feel I can also do the same with him." (Peng Wong)

Father & Son

2010-08-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

This post has taken a while in coming. It's hard to sum up the amazing weeks we enjoyed in late June & early July with my dad. Dad had been invited to come over to NZ & speak at the TSCF Mid-Year Conference for students from around the country. After some discussion, we persuaded him to come for a bit longer, so that we could enjoy unrushed time together, as well as making the most of some good speaking opportunities in the area.

The 3 1/2 weeks we had dad over were some of the most special times & have formed treasured memories. As we travelled the country for various events, we took the time to ensure it wasn't just work for dad, but a mix of cross-cultural introduction, church history & even a bit of leisure.
It's hard to include everything we saw, did and that happened, but here's some of the headlines:
Dad arrived in late June & we had a few days together in Wellington before we headed North for the TSCF Conference. It's good showing someone round your home city at the best of times, but when it's the other side of the world, completely new & an interesting place, the task becomes much easier. I've been asked a few times by visitors to NZ "Is Wellington worth a visit?" The simple answer is "yes"! I guess it depends what interests you, but Wellington usually has something for everyone. We took the time to show dad around the city, but particularly around some of the gorgeous coastline and to the very impressive Te Papa museum. 'Te Papa' means "Our Place" in Maori & sums up the ethos of the country and the museum. It is a celebration of all things New Zealand - of culture, history and the present. We visit fairly regularly (it's free) & never tire of it. A personal favourite is the "Golden Days" presentation, which tells the New Zealand story in the most fascinating of ways. Any more description will spoil it for those who come, but suffice to say, dad loved it & despite having seen it probably nearly ten times, I always see or appreciate something new. I got to enjoy a new experience as together, we went around "the Beehive"; NZ's Parliament. It was a fascinating experience & one I'm glad dad got to enjoy. I've always thought dad would have become an MP if God hadn't had rather grander plans for him.
From Wellington, we headed up towards the Conference, which was being held in Auckland. Thankfully, we had a few days to do the journey, and Jen & Sam were able to join us, as we drove the familiar route North - along the Kapiti Coast, through Bulls, along the Desert Road (past Mt Ruapehu, an active volcano...which due to poor weather, we didn't see close up!), overnighting in Taupo, one of my favourite NZ cities. We spent a little time in Taupo and Rotorua, introducing dad to the Maori culture which so significantly impacts NZ society and everyday life. Again and again, it was great hearing dad say "I had no idea NZ was like this..." We often feel that whilst pictures and words can describe some of what the country is like, nothing beats the firsthand experience.
Jen & Sam had to leave us at Hamilton, as Jen started back to work. Sam has been enjoying spending his days with friends from church, Lisa & her girls Poppy & Lily. We're so thankful to the McLennons for their kindness in looking after the wee man, and are thankful for God's provision of a Christian family & particularly because they're from the heart of Yorkshire. Sam should learn how to speak "reet proper".

Dad & I continued North, arriving in Auckland for the Sunday services where dad was preaching at Massey Presbyterian. Massey is led by Stuart Lange, one of the foremost church historians in NZ and a man who has been described to me as "one who has done much to fight for the Evangelical cause in the NZ Presybterian church." We enjoyed our time with Stuart (over 2 Sundays) & dad had what seemed to be a fruitful service preaching on the issue of suffering. In the evening, dad was preaching at the Auckland Baptist Tabernacle, founded by Thomas Spurgeon, son of the famous Charles Haddon. Again, it was good to be with John Catmur, a Pom who is doing a good work in "the City of Sails". In the afternoon, we took time out to see Harry Ironside's grave. Dr Ironside was a Pastor of the famous Moody Memorial Church in Chicago, who died whilst preaching in NZ. We hoped the same fate would not come upon dad...

We had a couple of days then before the conference started, so were able to head further North to the Bay of Islands, a 4 hour drive from Auckland. It was quite a trek, but so worthwhile being able to take him to Marsden Cross, where Samuel Marsden had arrived almost 200 years earlier to bring the Good News of Jesus to these shores for the first time. I think we both found it quite an emotionally charged experience, as it reminded us of the task that Marsden had started in NZ, the baton that had been passed on & the challenge to run & pass it on to others. Our day at Marsden Cross will be one of those special days indelibly etched on our minds throughout our lifetimes.
The TSCF Conference was a great week & worthy of its own post - watch this space, as I will endeavour to blog on it in the next few days.
After the conference, we headed to the South Island for a few days, where we based ourselves at Lake Tekapo. Tekapo is one of the most stunning spots in the country, both by day & night. The beautiful scenery of snow-covered mountains, beautiful lakes & gorgeous coloured sky is only enhanced by night, when the skies are literally scattered with stars. The nightsky supports Graham Kendrick's great lyric "Hands that flung stars into space, to cruel nails surrendered." We had an enjoyable time of rest & relaxation for a few days after a busy conference. Whilst in Tekapo, dad & I experienced one of the most memorable hours of changing colours on gorgeous scenery as we watched a sunset over Aoraki/Mt Cook (NZ's highest mountain) from the Tekapo Canal. Having enjoyed the sunset there, we then moved to Lake Tekapo itself, where we enjoyed the last remnants of sunset over the lake. Again, it reminded us of the wonders of God's creation.
One of the reasons we came to NZ was not just the work here in NZ itself, but the opportunity for the spread of the gospel throughout the South Pacific and beyond. The proximity of the Pacific Islands makes for an interesting cultural conglomeration in NZ itself, as well as making gospel partnership in the region a realistic possibility. Over a long weekend, we enjoyed working in tandem with Steve Gibb & his family in Vanuatu. Again, this merits its own blog post, so watch this space for further details.
After Vanuatu, we enjoyed the company of Paul Windsor & family. It was great to be able to introduce dad to Paul & vice versa. Both a visible expressions of godly character & personality in their personable, winsome manner - one in training Bible teachers & preachers around the world, the other in enthusing and modeling Biblical evangelism. I am thankful to God for both - we need both good evangelism & good preaching.
On flying back from Auckland to Wellington, I was glad to be able to "show" dad the informality of celebrity in the NZ context. We were sat in the lounge waiting to fly, when I spotted someone of interest - it was rather fun being able to point a man to dad & say "You see that man there? That's the Prime Minister of NZ - John Key." Even more fun was when John Key ended up being on our flight & better still, sat behind us! We didn't get to talk to him, but Mr Key demonstrated his warmth & charm with his extended interaction with the children sat behind him. I have been impressed by John Key's personability and struck by how disarming it is to those who are opposed to him.
Before dad flew home, we were able to enjoy a final few hours together in Wellington. It was particularly good to be able to celebrate Sam's first birthday both with dad & the Pollock family. Sam seemed to love the occasion, though he seemed a little over-awed by the birthday cake itself. We enjoyed time talking together, reflecting on all that had happened & thinking ahead to the future. Nigel & Ailsa have been such an encouragement to us & it was good for dad to see that, as well as to chat through stuff with Nigel himself.
It was a long period of time to be away from the UK & we are grateful to him for the sacrifice made to be with us. As we looked back on the time he was here, we are thankful to God for safety, good conversation, good travels, fellowship & friendship together. We are particularly thankful for the ways in which God used him whilst he was here - a number of staff and students have expressed to me appreciation for all that he said & did, and we are keen to see the momentum from his time here carried on to the future. As with all our family, it is great to share time and experiences with them here in NZ & we love having them over.
If you want to see more pictures of our time together, you can access them on these albums:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=189748&id=517781032&l=ff29d1a346
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=189682&id=517781032&l=c362232ca0
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=189934&id=517781032&l=01003df9c3
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=189943&id=517781032&l=31e7ef32cd

Oh Captain, My Captain

2010-06-12T21:02:00.000-07:00
Someone was recently asking me what the people in NZ are like. It's easy to stereotype and lump everyone into the same category & without wishing to do that, I replied something along the lines of "They're generally friendly, welcoming people, but there's a real mix." It was a simple answer to a simple question, but it's one that I've been asked a few times now, so I thought I'd devote a blog post to it.

As many of you know, I love sport and thankfully, so do many New Zealanders! It makes for a comfortable fit. The other day, I was listening to the radio station devoted to sport, Radio Sport. The comment was made that the current captains of some of New Zealand's major sports teams are among the finest selections in world sport. It seemed a bold and brash statement (as are many comments made on sport in NZ!), but as I reflected on it, I thought they're probably right. Realising that they're not names or faces that would necessarily be well known outside of these islands, let me introduce the four captains referred to and illustrate how they epitomise New Zealanders in many ways. I should add before people comment, I am aware that in choosing certain sports over others, I am being selective & should apologise that netball (and women) aren't mentioned. Netball is one of NZ's top sports and NZ has probably been the world leader in promoting the role of women in everyday society. I apologise for it being a male only group, as well as for not including sports such as basketball, hockey, athletics, rowing and others, all of which play a major part in Kiwi life.

First up is the Captain I've seen most of in the news of late - Ryan Nelsen.

In case you didn't know, the 'All Whites', NZ's football team is in the World Cup for only the second time and football fever is beginning to take hold of the country. The main television station has been advertising lately "NZ is a football nation", which given the All Blacks are playing this week is a remarkable statement. Ryan Nelsen represents the experience of many Kiwis. He currently lives in the UK, playing for Blackburn Rovers, having previously played in the USA for DC United. For many Kiwis, there is a period in their life where they go and do the big OE (Overseas Experience). Usually, but not always, it's in their early twenties, but the chance to visit, live and work overseas captures the minds of many Kiwis. It is believed to be in the region of almost one quarter of all people born in New Zealand now live overseas. Ryan Nelsen's experience is not unusual - at the last UK census, 58,000 NZ born residents were in the UK.
I've been impressed with Ryan Nelsen of late. Whilst all those around him having been losing their heads and suggesting that NZ could go far, he's not been overly caught up in the excitement and has remained level-headed, whilst seemingly hopeful. He's likeable lad & I wish him and the All Whites well in the coming weeks. For me, the like of Ryan Nelsen presents one of the big challenges in developing gospel work here in NZ - how do we reach Kiwis with the gospel, when so many of them leave in their early twenties? How do we disciple the students we have contact with, when many will go overseas for a period after their time at University? These are questions we are wrestling with as we seek to develop a lasting ministry here.

Next up is perhaps one of the most revered positions in NZ society - the captain of the All Blacks, Richie McCaw.
Before we moved to NZ, I have to confess to not being a fan of Richie. Known for playing right to the limit of the law, he frustrated me and probably made me wish he was English. Being on the other side of the world, and supporting the All Blacks on most occasions, I have come to appreciate his sublime skill as one of the finest openside flankers in the history of rugby. McCaw is a typical Southern man, tough, strong and into his rugby. Like many of the rugged Otago men, he went to study at Lincoln University, our premier Agricultural Tertiary institution. From there, he started playing rugby for Canterbury region and the Crusaders Super Rugby team, which as much as it pains me to say (living in Wellington) are probably the premier rugby outfits in NZ.
From there, his career has gone from strength to strength. Named Captain of the All Blacks aged 23, he was named World Player of the Year in 2006 and 2008, the first man to win it twice.
I met McCaw briefly in Christchurch just after we arrived and found him to be a amiable guy, who has carried the responsibility and prestige of the Captaincy well. In recent months, I've been impressed with how articulate he is with the media, and his refusal to blame others when things have gone wrong has impressed me. McCaw epitomises a group of students we would love to be reaching more than we currently are - homegrown sporting talent, who spend time at our Universities and who have leadership potential, which can make and shape New Zealand in years to come.
I'm not sure what you make of Rugby League. For many, it's an unknown sport, marginalised as a working-class game played in the periphery. In NZ, it is a sport mostly appreciated in certain regions, but one that has widespread coverage. Generally known as "League", as opposed to plain old "Rugby" (Union), its hotspot is South Auckland where many Maori and Pacific Islanders live, along with a few places such as Rotorua, a few areas just outside Wellington and Christchurch. However, the whole country enjoyed beating Australia on their turf in the 2008 RL World Cup - there's nothing like beating your trans-Tasman rivals in their back yard!
The current Captain of the Kiwis League team is Benji Marshall. Marshall is a prodigious talent with the capability of producing moments of genius that can shape a game. He's slightly maverick, known to be both stoic and brash - his play on the field exhibits the hallmarks of a genius.
And yet, Marshall represents a significant proportion of Kiwis in a number of ways. For a start, Marshall was raised without his biological father - his mum, Lydia was just 15 and still at school when Benji was born. Like many Maori, the whanau (extended family) were important to him growing up. He says "I've got 10 or 11 fathers...which is not a bad thing." Like many Kiwis today, the lure of greener grass in Australia pulled him, and by the age of 16, Marshall had a scholarship playing for a local school in Queensland. From there, he was signed up to play for Sydney's Wests Tigers, whom he has played for since 2003.
Benji Marshall epitomises another group of people we would love to see reached with the gospel on the campuses of NZ. These are the people (Maori and Pakeha, which are non-Maori) whose life circumstances are far from ideal. They are the people most in danger of turning to crime, alcohol and/or drugs. They are among the sinners who Jesus came to call to repentance. Benji Marshall also reminds of one of the challenges of reaching Kiwis today with the gospel - so many are moving overseas. As already mentioned with Ryan Nelsen, significant numbers move overseas and in particular, the numbers moving to Australia are high. In 2007, it is thought that 24,000 Kiwis moved across to Australia. Again, we have the challenge of reaching this unusual diaspora.
Finally, we have the unsung hero. The current Captain of the NZ BlackCaps cricket team quietly goes about his business without too much fuss, and yet, without him, the team would struggle. A specialist bowler, who can also bat, Daniel Luca Vettori has for the last 13 years proved himself to be one of the most consistent cricketers in the world. Only the eighth Test cricketer to take 300 wickets and make 3000 runs, and with a Test batting average of around 30, he is the backbone of the team.
In many ways, Vettori's success stems from what makes him difficult to write about - he's not particularly flash or forthright. There's little flair. Everything that Kevin Pietersen is, Vettori is not! I recently read Vettori's autobiography, which was helpful as a cure for insomnia, but little else. You know that when a player's choice of wearing glasses rather than contact lenses is a career highlight, you're not dealing with someone particularly outlandish!
Vettori has an Italian father and Kiwi mother, and I suppose represents the European flavours of NZ. I'm regularly asked how we cope as Brits in NZ, and in many ways, the answer is simple. In NZ, the highest number of immigrants come from the UK. It's a daily occurrence hearing accents from around the UK and seeing the influence of UK society on NZ. For me, NZ is vaguely familiar to the UK, where some things seem almost the same, and some are just a little different. Again, Vettori represents the challenge of reaching European Kiwis with the gospel. For Vettori, his home is here in NZ, but a significant proportion of his time is spent around the world. Again, a story not uncommon with Kiwis, who are known for their love of travel and their desire to see other parts of the world.

All four Captains are men who I admire for their different characteristics. All four demonstrate a love of sport which prevails in Kiwi culture. And, whilst I love sport and love all of these four sports, the challenge of reaching men and women like these with the Good News of Jesus and seeing their lives changed is why we are here.

Move away from my blog

2010-06-03T17:25:00.000-07:00
Not often that I try to get people to move away from my blog, but my friend Edith Vilamajó has written a short, and helpful post on "Lessons from being stranded" - some thoughts on her recent volcano induced delay. I enjoyed it & think you may also. You can read it here.

Simply brilliant

2010-06-01T21:49:00.000-07:00
From time to time, you read a book which has a profound impact on your life. I read a lot of books, many of which are read, put away and largely forgotten. Recently, I've been reading 'When Sinners Say "I Do"' by Dave Harvey. I finished it the other night on the plane back from Auckland. Put succinctly, this book is simply brilliant.
Aside from its cover (which is a bit cheesy for my liking), I found that from start to finish this book warmed my heart, helped my life and marriage, and has given me plenty to think over, repent of and change in the future. Best of all, it is so Jesus-centred and so gospel-centred.
Throughout, profound thoughts are simply written, making it accessible for all. From start to finish, it is Biblically-based and driven by a gospel-shaped worldview. I've read a number of books on marriage, and so many seem to take snippets of the Bible and apply them, whereas this is saturated in the Good Book. It's honest - chapter two is titled "Waking up with the worst of sinners" & deals with sin in one's own life. At times, it's surprisingly open and honest - it deals with sin, mercy, judgement, forgiveness, grace and applies all of it constructively to marriage. It's not sex-focused, but neither does it avoid the topic. And as for the last chapter, it wasn't at all what I was expecting (to avoid spoiling it for you, I'm not saying what the last chapter's topic is!).

It's the kind of book I need to re-read regularly and apply daily. I intend to do both. Yes, it is specifically about marriage and for that reason, I think it is most helpful for those who are married. I suspect this will be one of my "standard" wedding presents to go alongside the toasters & saucepans that are normally given. If you have read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. If you haven't, buy it, read it, apply it...and let me know what you think!

For those in NZ, you can get it at TSCF's Catalyst books here.
For those elsewhere in the world, you can buy one copy or more from 10ofthose.com here.

God, the dollar & the gospel (Andy Shudall)

2010-05-26T22:59:00.000-07:00
Isn't it frustrating when you have an idea & someone else beats you to it? Well, yes, unless they go & do it far better than you could, and more than that, they then allow you to use it!

My friend and colleague, Andy Shudall recently blogged on "God, the dollar & the gospel". His post articulated well some thoughts I have been having regarding money, and impressed me so much, that I asked him earlier today if I could post it in full. He has kindly agreed, and so below is his article - all the figures he quotes for himself apply to our situation also. I have left information on how you can support Andy and his work, as well as our work - we are involved in the same work, but are just based in different cities. I'm grateful to God for Andy & for the friendship and partnership we have in the gospel here in NZ.

God, the dollar and the gospel
Don’t let the next sentence stop you reading. The New Zealand dollar is about a third stronger than it was when we moved to New Zealand.
So what? Well it’s a big factor in our ministry here.
Student ministry is not about the money – it never was, never will be. I’m not in this for cash – in fact money interests me very little. But money is a significant part of the provision of God for this ministry.
So the hard figures: it costs about $75000 Kiwi dollars to keep me on the road each year: salary, office, expenses, conferences, training and study. 5 years ago that was the equivalent of £25000 today it’s the equivalent of £35000. The majority of our financial support comes from the UK and the exchange rate has had an impact on our finances.
This has presented a significant challenge and has at times been a real concern/worry: especially at a time of global financial struggle and personal financial change and hardship for many. I’ve worried about money running out, about not having enough, about what would happen, about absolute bank balance and about how things work out on a month by month basis.
But the verse of Scripture that God imposed on my heart at the beginning of our time here has been a greater challenge to me: a challenge to look to God, rather than the dollar, for my security.
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say,
“The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear;
what can man do to me?”
Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:5-8
The dollar waxes and wanes, history changes, global institutions rise and fall but God remains unchanging:
Students are responding to the gospel. I recently chatted to someone who had come to faith in Jesus. I asked him what had made the critical difference in bringing him to knowing God in Christ. He spoke warmly, smiling broadly, about how he had seen something intangible in the way the Christians he had met lived and the way in which they spoke about Jesus. He had felt compelled to come to Christ by the power of His Word and the offer of His saving love.
Students are being changed by the gospel. I sat with a group of student leaders and they spoke of how the reality of Jesus was changing the way in which they thought about their lives on campus – one spoke of how God had challenged them about their socialising. They had been challenged about the attitudes they had toward alcohol and relationships. It was plain to see that this wasn’t an attempt at ‘being good’ but rather a response to God’s work in their lives.
Students are sharing the gospel. I had breakfast with a student last week who’s real concern is how to reach his non-Christian friends with the truth about Jesus and how to help his Christian friends become more firmly grounded in the hope and life that Jesus brings. This student is a shining example of living an undivided life – bringing the hope of Jesus to bear in all the friendships he finds himself in.
God does not change.
God’s work continues to grow.
God’s provision is not lacking.
In and through the changing economic climate (and despite the stupidity of my worry) God has continued to provide for our needs. Twenty people here in NZ recently stepped up and have joined the support team in prayer and finance. People in the UK, Europe, Canada and America continue to give and pray.
I’m thankful to God that He is the Lord of the dollar and the gospel: thankful too that He is the Lord over my life. This work feels more and more like a privilege and, as I look to the years ahead, I’m confident that I NEED not worry (though there will be times I will) and that as He has provided so He will provide – not because of who I am or what I do, but because of His great faithfulness and glory!

If you’d be interested in supporting Andy's work in prayer or finances please do send him an email by clicking here
If you'd be interested in supporting Ben's work in prayer or finances please do send him an email by clicking here

Andy's article was originally posted on his blog:
http://kiwichronicles.blogspot.com/2010/04/god-dollar-and-gospel.html

Mandela’s Way

2010-05-04T03:49:00.001-07:00

I was recently asked by a friend what image came to mind when I thought of leadership. Amongst other images, one of the immediate images that comes to mind for is that of Nelson Mandela presenting Francois Pienaar with the Rugby World Cup in 1995. In that moment, Mandela demonstrated leadership to the watching world – his commitment to the cause, despite all that had gone before showed the measure of the man. It will forever be etched in my mind.

I love reading books. No matter how pushed for time I am, I will always endeavour to find or make time to read. Despite having several shelves of books waiting to be read (both here & in the UK!), a new book that captures my attention in a shop is hard to resist. In recent weeks, I have picked up one such book which caught my attention and several minutes after first seeing it, I’d walked out of the shop purchase in hand. Just a few days after having purchased the book, it was finished – a simple, pleasurable book to read. The book in question? ‘Mandela’s Way – Lessons on Life’ – Richard Stengel.

Admittedly, it’s a fairly simple book. The print is large and the pages well spaced. It is one of the easier reads of the year, and yet the lessons it contains are simple, yet profound. As with a number of other leadership books, the author takes Mandela’s life and applies simple wisdom from the way he has gone about it. For me, the chapter headings are where the wisdom is. Whilst I will take some things from the main body of the chapters, the headings gave 15 leadership lessons (most of which require little or no explanation).

To save some the cost of the book, here they are:

1 – Courage is not the absence of fear

2 – Be measured

3 – Lead from the front

4 – Lead from the back (Lessons 3&4 reminded me of some of the comments Warren Wiersbe makes in ‘On Being a Servant of God’ in ch18, I think!)

5 – Look the part (for those who know Stuart Olyott, he would be proud of this chapter!)

6 – Have a core principle

7 – See the good in others (I can almost hear Nelson Mandela saying this with a Nigel Pollock voice)

8 – Know your enemy

9 – Keep your rivals close

10 – Know when to say no

11 – It’s a long game

12 – Love makes the difference

13 – Quitting is leading too (This was a particularly helpful chapter on succession management)

14 – It’s always both

15 – Find your own garden

I enjoyed this book – the big question for me is whether I can apply all the lessons learned from it in my own life? And for what it’s worth, for those who enjoy a good film (based on real life events), I can highly recommend Goodbye Bafana, which Jen & I watched a few years ago – again, the story of Nelson Mandela’s time in prison, it is a captivating watch.

Who you are when no-one’s listening

2010-04-29T04:57:00.001-07:00

It’s been fascinating observing the UK election campaign from a distance. I’ve not seen too much of the debates and I’ve not had the day to day reviews that the UK media do so well. I write as someone who enjoys politics, but at the present time isn’t as involved in or affected by UK politics as when we lived in the UK. For the record, I won’t be voting in the May 6th UK election. I suspect that after today’s events, nor will Gillian Duffy.

“ Shock & awe”

I knew something major had happened when I received a text this morning telling me to go to the BBC website & see what Gordon Brown had done. Since then, the story has spread widely and been covered from every angle. For me, it linked in with something I’ve given thought to over recent months – integrity.

Bill Hybels has a helpful book with a masterful title “Who You Are When No-One’s Looking”. It looks at character and asks what are we like behind closed doors. Today, Gordon Brown opened up another area of our lives that need to demonstrate integrity – what our mouths are like behind closed doors. As Jesus said

“But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. ¹⁹ For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. ²⁰ These are what defile you.” (Matthew 15:18-20)

Much could be said about Gordon Brown, his words and integrity. Bearing in mind Proverbs 10:19 says “When words are many, sin is not absent”, I’ll keep this brief. Here are four things that can be said in response to today’s events:

(1) Gordon Brown should not have said it.

There’s no excusing him or what was said about Gillian Duffy. It simply should never have been said – to Ms. Duffy’s face or behind her back. To call her “a bigoted woman” was a slur, and on the basis of what has been reported as their conversation was simply not true. I suspect that Gordon Brown (whether for political or moral reasons) realises himself that he should never had said those words.

(2) Gordon Brown should have said it.

This time, I’m referring to the words “I’m sorry – I was wrong”. As the Elton John/Blue song says “Sorry seems to be the hardest word.” I appreciate that Gordon Brown did use “apologise” many times, but his use of “sorry” was limited and not particularly personal. He should have simply and immediately said “I’m sorry – I was wrong.” But before we jump on a bandwagon too quickly, there’s a third thing we can say…

(3) I could have said it.

As hastily as the media have been to criticise Gordon Brown for his comments on Ms Duffy, it seems that we have forgotten our own failings. When I point the finger, there are always fingers pointing back at me. Two sentences of Biblical wisdom seem appropriate – first Jesus’ caution - “let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” (John 8:7) and second, “You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.” (Romans 2:1)

I am fully capable of saying nasty and back-biting comments about others. I have done and in the future, I will fail again in this area. I can accuse Gordon Brown, but in doing so, I condemn myself.

(4) I should say it.

Since I fail in the way I speak of others, at times to their face and more often, behind their backs, I should be someone who says “sorry” more often. It may well be the hardest word to say, but it needs to be one at the forefront of every Christian’s lips. In many ways, the crux of the gospel is contained in this word – it recognises I am a sinner and God is holy, it realises I have sinned against fellow humans and against God, it rejoices in that our sin can be forgiven only through the mediator between God and humans, Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross.

As a proud male, I struggle at times to say “I’m sorry – I was wrong” and yet, these are words to live by. They are words which instead of bringing me failure and rejection bring me failure, forgiveness and grace.

So, Gordon Brown did mess up. But in doing so, he has given me a wonderfully fresh insight into what integrity should look like, what I am like and what living in God’s glorious forgiveness should look like.

500 days to go

2010-04-26T18:24:00.001-07:00

Today marks 500 days until the 2011 Rugby World Cup begins in New Zealand. It promises to be a huge occasion. The RWC is the third biggest sporting event worldwide. In addition to the annual 2.4 million visitors this country has, it is anticipated that up to 80,000 more visitors may come to these shores.

Rugby is a great sport, which I love. The mental and physical toughness of the players is second to none. The skill, the tackles, the intensity of the game all make it an enjoyable experience. Whilst it is not played in all countries, the sport is a world-wide game. The power base of the sport is in Western Europe, South Africa & the South Pacific. In recent years, there has been growth in Argentina, N America and parts of SE Asia. All these regions will be represented in 2011.

For various reasons, Christian players have been well represented in rugby. Some of the great players of the past have been Christians (eg: Michael Jones, Jason Robinson, Nick Farr-Jones), whilst today, there are still a good number of top players who are followers of the Way (eg: Euan Murray, Ugo Monye, Brad Thorn).

Whilst in TSCF, our primary work is amongst students, we are also aware that certain events bring unique opportunities to share the message of Jesus with others. The 2011 RWC fits into this category. We are working in earnest to make the most of the events happening here to proclaim the Good News of Jesus later next year, both to those who live here & those who will be visiting. We only have 500 days to plan, but we long that God would do something significant here in NZ during the 6 weeks of the tournament.

Over the coming months, I hope to include more Youtube clips that showcase this wonderful country & the opportunities the RWC presents. Do keep an eye out for these & for ways you can pray for and be a part of all that’s going on.

Please pray for us & if you’d like more information about how you can be part of it, do get in touch!

Son of a preacher man

2010-04-18T20:54:00.001-07:00

I’ve been debating what to write my next blog post on for a little while now. A fair bit has happened & I’ve had a number of things on my mind, all of which merit some space on this blog, but here’s some reflections on a book I have completed recently.
The name of Francis Schaeffer is widely known as one of the most respected Christian leaders of the last century & one of the leading apologists defending the Christian faith. With his wife, Edith, he founded L’Abri Fellowship, where for many years they made a great impact. Together, they had four children, who were brought up experiencing the Schaeffer’s Christian life and ministry at close quarters. L’Abri was an Alpine home which was used as a ministry to travellers and was used as a forum to discuss philosophical and religious beliefs, but particularly to share the Gospel of Jesus with those who were staying. Edith Schaeffer’s take on the work is contained within this book, which I haven’t read, but I guess gives an insider’s account.

However, I have recently read Francis & Edith’s youngest son’s autobiography. He’s called it ‘Crazy for God’ and subtitled it “How I grew up as one of the elect, helped found the religious right, and lived to take all (or almost all) of it back.” In terms of writing style, it’s an easy read, but in terms of what he has to say, an uncomfortable read.Frank Schaeffer is determined to tell his side of the story and to let readers know what life at Francis Schaeffer’s house was really like. It’s a cynical take on his parents and their ministry, and I suspect if they had read it, it would sadden them immensely. Unfortunately, it’s not written by a rebellious teenager or twenty-something year old, but by a man in his fifties processing his own childhood.

I don’t know what Frank Schaeffer’s childhood was really like. Having read his book, I’m left wondering whether it contains the truth, the whole truth or nothing like the truth. I suspect it contains bits of the truth, but where it starts and where it finishes is anyone’s guess. Listening to Os Guinness respond to the details of this book (Dr Guinness spent much time in the Schaeffer household when Frank was growing up), he argues that it is simply not the truth at all.

What it does tell me, however, is the importance of having one’s own faith, and not a hand-me-down second-hand religion. Richard Dawkins protests at the labelling and bringing up children in the religion of its forefathers, but I suspect he is inconsistent in this. I’m not against bringing up your children to know God and love Him, but ultimately, it must be a child’s own choice and not one forced (whether directly or indirectly) upon a child. It doesn’t appear that Francis imposed his religion on Frank, but that perhaps Francis was so keen to see Frank go on spiritually that he gave opportunities before his faith was proven and lived out.

Sadly, we’re left with a tragic tale of bitterness and woe, a story of a prodigal son who has left the Father’s house and gone to a foreign land to squander his wealth. May God help me to only have an authentic faith. For the record, my folks did a great job of bringing us up…sure, like the Schaeffers, there were faults and mistakes, but isn’t that what the gospel is about? I trust that in years to come, little Sam will have had an authentic faith demonstrated to him and in due course, that he will come to his own realisation and trust in all that Jesus Christ has done for us.

Apologies again for the delay in blogging – I trust normal service will resume soon!

Team of the Year 2010

2010-02-20T13:45:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow sees the start of Orientation week at Victoria University, Wellington. It’s the start of the year and another new chapter of ministry amongst students here in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

The new year brings a new team to work together here in Wellington. So, let me introduce them & ask you to pray for us as we lead the students in reaching other students for Christ at Victoria University & Massey University.

So, starting in the bottom left, is Gina Wong. Gina is a Staff Worker and much of the day to day involvement with the students is spear-headed by her – I’m thankful for her faithfulness daily to the students. Please pray as she trains the leaders in Bible-study methods and leadership, particularly in the coming weeks.

On Gina’s right is Peta-Maria Harris, more commonly known as PM. PM has just finished her studies in teaching, and we are delighted she has joined the team as part of the MINTY programme. She will be spending her time specifically with the International Christian Fellowship, but also as part of the ‘Rongopai’ initiative, which is a missional community living together right next to campus seeking to reach out to those on their doorstep. I will be particularly trying to encourage her to think through how she can develop her evangelistic gifts, as well as engaging with her Maori heritage. We are excited about the opportunities the two together can bring.

To my left, is Phil Luey. Phil has decided to spend a second year doing MINTY. I’m thankful to God for Phil, and particularly for the growth in him over the past year. Phil will be working this year with the Christian Union and I’m keen to see him continue the good work he has been doing with the lads in the group.

Which just leaves me…

My work in Wellington is just one part of the work. For 2 days a week, my work is specifically focussed on Wellington, whilst the remaining 3 working days are given to the wider evangelistic work around the country. I’d value your prayers as I lead the team, am involved in supervising Gina & Phil, and encouraging PM, as well as some more intentional time of discipling two guys, Peng and Josh over the coming year. I’m also trying to help the students and groups in Wellington to make the most of the opportunities for the gospel that are there on campus. We’re giving this some serious thought, particularly in regards to how we help them break out of the “Christian bubble”, but more on that another time.

So, we’d value your prayers. Of course, the team is just one part of the work – really, the students are the ones involved in the day to day, nitty gritty work of living out and sharing the gospel with those around them. So, do please pray for us all!

Ben’s 10 of Summer 2010

2010-02-16T00:59:00.001-08:00

So, the summer holidays are over for me. The work has started in earnest, but not before one last chance to reflect on what has been a busy, but good summer – not always restful, but pretty much always enjoyable. We’ve had some good friends over, good time with family & good days spent with friends here. In no particular order, here are my summer ten highlights.

News of James & Jen’s engagement. James is a colleague of mine as part of the Wellington TSCF team, but is currently studying at Regent College, Vancouver. He plans to come back in the middle of our winter, but is also bringing with him his fiancee Jen. They got engaged over the hols & we’re thrilled for them, and look forward to the contribution they will make to TSCF & the gospel here in NZ when they return.

The first of our friends to visit was Yvette. Originally from Australia, she’s renounced that & become a Pom.   Good on ya, Yvette. We only had a weekend with her, but were thrilled to show her the delights of the Wellington region. The Pohutakawa trees were out in force, and we had a good, but brief weekend.

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Christmas Eve was a great time for us, where we were able to enjoy our first “hot” Christmas. It wasn’t a scorcher, but enough for us to head to Scorching Bay, Wellington to enjoy a quick dip & some time on the beach. Here’s a snap of the wee fella, enjoying the sun from the delights of his “deckchair”.

TSCF’s Annual Staff & Families’ Conference was a great time of celebrating & enjoying family, friendship and fellowship. Although the weather wasn’t the greatest, we still enjoyed time together near Nelson, in the North of the South Island. Although we’re scattered around the country, it’s great to work together for God with these folks.We were thankful to Elliot for taking some cracking photos of Sam. Since we think people are more interested in pics of him than us (discerning folks that you are), here are one or two of the photos.

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It was great to have one of Jen’s University friends, Carrie with us for a few days before the Staff & Families’ conference. She was very patient with us, as we combined packing & getting ready for family visiting, along with showing her the sights and making sure she had a good time. Our day together in the Wairarapa was fantastic & made up for the awful weather Carrie endured when we left her in Nelson.

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Bible reading is something that has been encouraged in my life from an early age. For that, I am very grateful. It’s not always been easy. This year, I am attempting to read the Bible through in the year – we’ll see if it works. However, the real joy has come from reading the Bible itself, not the system or scheme I’m using. I have loved how fresh, relevant and applicable the Bible has been in my daily readings. They have been such a joy.

It seems a long time ago now, but our time in Australia at the AFES National Training Event brought some good times. It was great hearing John Dickson speak & his faithfulness to the gospel, along with historical detail and interesting clarity. But, it was a real joy to renew acquaintance with two friends who lead the student work in Papua New Guinea, Tom Lepatu & Yando Nimbo (see below). They were great fun to be around and an encouragement to be faithful in our work for God.

We were concerned how our first Southern Hemisphere Christmas would be. Though we missed family & friends, it was good to spend Christmas day with ‘family & friends’, the Pollocks. We had a great BBQ & a memorable first Christmas together. We’re grateful for the friendship and welcome.

Talking of hard, we know how hard it is to get to NZ & the sacrifices made by those who travel to get here. We appreciate every one. However, it was particularly good to have mum, Jonathan & Uncle John over from the UK for just under 2 weeks, courtesy of an amazing Singapore Airlines deal. We had some great times, great journeys, great meals & great fun. For those who are on Facebook, the pictures are over there to be enjoyed. I particularly enjoyed receiving an email from mum saying “I think I’ve fallen in love with New Zealand.”   It makes me proud to live here & be a Yorkshire Kiwi.

On those travels with the family, we went to Lake Tekapo for the first time. Wow! It has now become one of my favourite places in NZ & the reminder inside the Church of the Good Shepherd is that with all its natural, God-given beauty, we still long that people would see the cross first and come to know the Christ of the cross. Which brings me back to my work…which is all about preaching Christ and Him crucified to all those we meet here in beautiful NZ. It’s been great having time off, but great to be back and back to the work God has called us here to do.

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2009 – The Year of the Biography

2010-01-14T17:02:00.001-08:00

I’ve been on a bit of a roll blogging lately. In a desperate attempt to finish looking back on 2009, here is the final post in the reflections blogs. Enjoy!

Of the 50 or so books I have read this year, the ones I seem to have enjoyed most have been predominantly biographies and autobiographies. I try to read a variety of books and at any one time am reading a fairly large number of books, so I would say this list is slightly skewed. However, in no particular order, here are some of my book, film and song highlights from 2009.

‘Flowing Streams: Journeys of a life well-lived’ – Stuart Briscoe

I’ve only just recently finished, but had read it within a few days of buying it. The autobiographical story of Stuart Briscoe. Originally from the North of England, it tells the story how God takes and uses an ordinary man in all sorts of circumstances. It’s quite simple, but really encouraging and contains some great lessons inside.

‘Axiom’ – Bill Hybels

I like Hybels. I don’t agree with everything he does, or even every way he approaches things, but his creativity and commitment to the church stand out. This book is collected wisdom that he has learned in his years in ministry. I enjoyed gleaning from someone who has fascinated me for some time.

‘Cricket, Lovely Cricket’ – Lawrence Booth

A simple, but amusing book. I love sports books and this was classic observational comedy in written form. Genius.

‘Lion Man’ – Sir Ian McGeechan

This was probably my most enjoyable read of the year. I like McGeechan. The fact he’s a Yorkshireman helps, but his writing demonstrates the man as a true legend. After reading this, I warmed more to McGeechan than I had before. His humility oozes out of this book and his genuine love of the game and love of people strikes me as unusual in the era of professionalism. I realise not everyone would enjoy this book, but as a rugby fan, it was a good and simple read.

‘Trouble is My Business’ (Film)

This is a film documentary following the inspirational Gary Peach round Aorere College in South Auckland. His love for Maori and Pacific Island kids who others have no time for and his investment and input into them is a bright and shining example and a joy to watch. Jen and I went to see this with no idea what it was like. It would rank as one of my favourite films and having now met Peachy, I can vouch that he is like that in real life. It’s a great Kiwi film.

‘Bright Eyes’ – Simon & Garfunkel (Song)

I consider myself privileged to have been able to hear Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel sing in concert earlier this year in Auckland. They are lyrical genius & musical genius combined. I’ve known the song ‘Bright Eyes’ for some time, but Garfunkel’s haunting rendition has remained with me through the year. It’s become a favourite song, even if it is about rabbits dying of myxomatosis!

‘Shooting Dogs’ (Film)

I’m not sure how much a film can convey of the horror of war, never mind genocide. The various accounts of the Rwandan Genocide move me and sadden me. The West sitting back and ignoring the attrocities of 1994 is unforgivable. This film was a good reminder of the awfulness of sin and its most potent effects.

Thankfully, I am reminded through the work amongst students in Rwanda, that the gospel is still true and has the power to change lives. I would love to visit this country and see God’s grace at work.

‘The Busy Christian’s Guide To Busyness’ – Tim Chester

I like Tim Chester’s writing. He’s readable, but also writes things of Biblical and gospel substance. I read this through with Peng, one of our students and thoroughly enjoyed it. It is basically applying the gospel to all areas of life written in a book. I recommend it! (I also prefer the old book cover for this!)

‘Outnumbered’ (TV Show)

I discovered Outnumbered on a flight into Wellington. I only saw one episode and as a result decided to try it. I bought series one on DVD for Jen & I. We watched it as “parenting prep”. It’s good fun, good British humour and for me, took over where no-one has picked up in the post-‘Office’ era. Hugh Dennis is fantastic and the kids hilarious.

If you’ve never seen it, here’s a clip to get you started:

Other notable mentions for 2009 would be Colin Durez’s biog of Francis Schaeffer, Dan Kimball’s ‘They Like Jesus but not the church’, ‘It’s not about the coffee’ – Howard Behar, John Stott’s BST on Ephesians, and Peter Allisson’s ‘Whatever you do, don’t run!’

Looking at this 2009 list, it looks like I may have to add some heavier tomes, but reflecting on 2009, I enjoyed reading and learning from the lives of others. Watch this space for (hopefully) more regular reviews, courtesy of an initiative by Thomas Nelson books.

BDC Cricket Rankings

2010-01-13T20:06:00.001-08:00

My friend Paul Windsor has posted on his highly recommended blog his personal cricket rankings. We’re mid-season here & it captured my attention. I know not everyone will be interested to read this (my wife, Jen, for one!), so I’ll keep it brief…here is my take on my most favoured (first) to least favoured (last) cricket teams & brief reasons why. It’s a little bit of fun at the end of the day…

ONE – England

It’s a hard one. My first and second choices are so close these days, but what swings it is that when the two play, I would still support England. It’s not quite the same with fewer Yorkshiremen (Gough, Vaughan, Hoggard, but they’re still my number one team to watch.)

TWO – New Zealand

Daniel “boring, but effective” Vettori is one of the best. McCullum and Ryder add some fun and flair. I’ll miss O’Brien, Bond and Oram, but probably not as much as the BlackCaps will. "I’m looking forward to NZ v Oz later in the year.

THREE – South Africa

For me, one player alone made me like watching SA – Jonty Rhodes. Just this morning, I was having a conversation about how great a player he was – 7 years after his retirement. His dedication to catching/fielding, as well as his Christian witness made me inclined towards the Proteas.

FOUR – Zimbabwe

This country doesn’t appear in Paul’s list and it comes in mine with a note of caution. This is the free from political interference Zimbabwe, one without Mugabe’s influence. It’s a country I have never visited, but have always had a soft spot for & I look forward to the day when they return to the Test arena to do their stuff!

FIVE – The Windies

How can you not be positive about a team that produced Sir Viv, Curtley & Courtney, and Lara? Incidentally, there’s a great picture in Sir Viv’s autobiog with his dad outside their house with a banner that says “Yes, God is good in earth and sky!” – They’re big West Indian grins echo the truth of that hymn! I’m not sure what hymn to have outside our house.

SIX – India

I’m afraid this is the Yorkshire connection coming through. Sachin Tendulkar. I still remember the enthusiasm and anticipation which greeted his arrival as a 19 year old arriving at Yorkshire. Meeting him last year showed me why he is such a legend. I like the Indians and would love to see cricket played over there.

SEVEN – Sri Lanka

I’ve always thought they were a decent side and have produced some great big-hitters. I’m a bit wary about Malinga’s action, which to me looks incredibly suspect. I like them, but they’re not my favourite team!

EIGHT (joint)- Australia/Pakistan

In a match between them (as is currently happening), I don’t have interest in either team winning! I think it is the over-confidence and sledging of the Aussies and the allegations of cheating by the Pakistanis that have meant I’d rather any team but these two win a match! Still, I admire Warne for his bowling and Inzamam for his comedy running (and often comedy commentary to go with it on TMS).

Ah, cricket – it’s a great sport…over to you. Who are your top teams?

(Thanks Paul for the inspiration to give 15 mins of my time thinking this one through!)

The Soundtrack of My Life

2010-01-10T15:28:00.001-08:00

The New Year continues to move at a pace – we’re already 11 days in and Monday morning of a new week is upon us. I’ve not finished my reflective posts on years past (I think there’ll be one more after this), so today’s reflection is one that I’ve been thinking about for some time.

I’m not a great musician, but I enjoy good music. I enjoying listening and singing, as well as sometimes playing the odd instrument I’m not particular good at. Music plays an important part in my life. It often sets the tone for my day – I’ve come to the conclusion that the first song I hear or sing in a day is crucial, as it usually ends up being in my head for the rest of the day.

Looking back on my life, certain songs have been important or representative of a specific time in my life. When I hear them, they bring back memories (mostly good) and remind me of times & incidents which tell me of the goodness of God in my life.

So, for what it’s worth, here is the soundtrack of my life – it’s not my desert island discs (my favourite songs which I’d love to be played), but rather songs that sum up my life so far. Some are better known than others, hence the longer descriptions of some compared with others.

Early Childhood Years

I’m sure there are lots of songs which when I hear them would take me back to these times. However, the most formative songs for me would have to be “There’s a Way Back to God” and “Just as I am”.

This morning, on a CD we were playing for Sam, I was reminded of “There’s a Way Back to God”. It was a song that dad used frequently when leading beach missions, sharing the message of Jesus on beaches in the UK. Most commonly, it was the song that closed a meeting, or often was used on a Sunday. It’s a slower song, allowing the words to sink in and resonate. They contain simple, but great truths which have revolutionised my life.

There’s a way back to God from the dark paths of sin

There’s a door that is open and you may go in

At Calvary’s cross is where you begin

When you come as a sinner to Jesus.

The hymn “Just as I am” is better known. It’s the song that is most frequently associated with the evangelist Billy Graham and his crusade events. 1984 was a significant year in my life, as I was taken to several of the Mission England events held in footy stadiums (Anfield, Roker Park, Ashton Gate, Hillsborough (1985), Villa Park were the places I went). It was also the time that I affirmed the commitment I had made earlier that I wanted to give my life to Jesus and to follow Him. I suspect I didn’t understand everything in the hymn, but I understood the sentiments of it and particularly of this verse.

Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Childhood Years

One of the immense privileges for me growing up as a child was to be taken each year through the Iron Curtain into East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Hungary. It certainly never seemed a privilege at that time – when others were holidaying in Majorca and Tenerife, it was somewhat embarrassing to say “We’re going to Poland!” However, I look back with fond memories and real thankfulness for the times we had in Communist Eastern Europe.

I recently tried explaining to Jen how fearful we would be and the uncertainty of those trips. I don’t think it’s easy to convey, particularly now the Iron Curtain no longer exists. But in the midst of that fear, we would often stop as a family to spend time together reminding ourselves of the God in whom we trusted. I remember singing as we approached some of the scarier borders these great words

I’m under the blood of Jesus, I’m safe in the Shepherd’s fold

I’m under the blood of Jesus, safe when the night’s grow cold

Safe when the nations crumble, safe when the stars grow dim

I’m under the blood of Jesus and I am safe in Him.

Teenage Years

I have to admit my teenaged years (in this regard only, I hope!) were a little bit geeky. I wasn’t quite into music in the same way many others are/were. I remember the battle between Oasis/Blur (Oasis, for their music, every time – songs like Wonderwall, Champagne Supernova etc) but the soundtrack from this time for me has to be REM’s seminal album “Automatic for the People”. It wasn’t just one song on it, but several of them (– Man on the Moon, Nightswimming, Everybody Hurts & Find the River) stand out. I think Everybody Hurts is the one that sticks – not because my teenaged years were painful, but more that the song was the one has remained as the song of that era.

USA

In 1996, I moved to the USA to study at Bible College for what ended up being 2 years. This time was dominated by a lot of ‘Christian’ music. Listening to Christian radio stations taught me of numerous artists that I’d never heard of before and showed me a multi-million dollar industry. Steven Curtis Chapman was probably my favourite Christian artist before I moved to the States, and probably continued to be my favourite. I’m not sure I could pick just one of his songs, so I’ll go with a song I learned in the USA. I won’t put it all down here, but the lyrics that I remember most are

You are my rock when I weak, You are the treasure that I seek, You are my all in all.

University days

Lots of songs stick out – how could I ever forget Jon Thomas singing (and dedicating to me, no less) Brown-Eyed Girl in the bar at Rosser Hall, Aberystwyth University on my 21st birthday?! But my time in Scotland has happier memories – 2 songs that remind me of that era are the Proclaimers ‘500 Miles’ and Highland Cathedral. I could write the lyrics, or put various links to these songs, but in shameless promotion of friends, here is Nigel & Ailsa Pollock’s middle son Jamie playing the bagpipes at a school concert. They’re rightly very proud of him, and so are we – good on ya Jamie.

Post-Uni Days

Post Uni could have lots of songs that bring back memories. But quite a few years after leaving Uni, I met Jen. 2 songs from Ireland trigger my emotions in different ways. One is actually from the Republic, but makes me appreciate Ireland and all things Irish (well, most!) – it’s “The Fields of Athenry” – the particular version I like is sung on the film ‘Veronica Guerin’ by Brian O’Donnell. The other song is from the rugby (!) – it’s the song that unifies North and South and is the second anthem that gets sung – it’s called ‘Ireland’s Call’. Again, it’s a reminder of the tragic history of Ireland, but also of the warmth of the people and the welcome they afford.

Recent Days

Which brings us to the more recent days. There’s quite a few songs that remind me of Kiwi life. We have some of the albums that play the best of NZ music, but for me, you can’t beat Pokarekare Ana for reminding me of what NZ is like and also reminding me of our farewell service at West Church, Bangor. It brings back memories of that initial sense of God’s calling to a land far away, to share the message of Jesus with people who may have never heard. Hayley Westenra’s version is powerful and moving.

So there you have it – one or two songs that would comprise the soundtrack of my life. Maybe this has been of more interest to me writing it, but I’ve enjoyed reflecting on times past and good tunes/words from them. What would be the soundtrack to your life?

Life in ‘the Noughties’ – part two (2005-2009)

2010-01-04T15:14:00.001-08:00

The decade continues – picking up in 2005. Apologies for the lack of photos – if you have any you’d like me to post, send them across & I’ll see what I can do!

2005

Missions, ministry in the sun & meeting Jen for the first time!

Romans 1:16 “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.”

2006

New Zealand, new direction, nerve-wracking question (with the right answer at the end of it!).

Psalm 25:4 “Show me Your ways, teach me Your paths.”

2007

Moving on, wedding bells & making preparations for moving again.

Psalm 73:28 “But as for me, it is good to be near God…”

2008

Crossing the world, crossing cultures and being reminded of the cross.

Acts 1:8b “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

2009

The joy of fatherhood, the joy of spiritual new birth, the joy of a gracious God whose hand is on me.

Nehemiah 2:8 “…the gracious hand of my God was upon me.”

Life in ‘the Noughties’ – part one (2000-2004)

2010-01-02T01:22:00.001-08:00

December 31st, 2009 not only saw the end of the year, but also the end of the first decade of the 21st Century. ‘The Noughties’ saw much happen in my life – some good, some bad, some hard, but all of it was in God’s plan and God’s timing for me. Some of it wasn’t what I would have chosen if left to my own devices, and some has been far better than what I may have chosen!

I thought I’d summarise each of the years of my ‘noughties’ in one phrase or a collection of words, along with one Bible verse that sums up the year for me. Maybe it’s just for me that this is helpful, but maybe it’ll allow you to thank God with me for all the joys and sorrows, the best and worst of times.

2000

Learning, exploring and developing one’s gifts within the context of leadership.

2 Timothy 4:5 “But you…do the work of an evangelist.”

2001

Disappointment, distraction from my degree and developing good friendships.

2 Timothy 2:2 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

2002

Dashed hopes, depression and doubting, and discovering the goodness of God in dark days.

Psalm 42:5, 11 and 43:5 “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my God.”

2003

Living again in the joy of the Lord, loving the church; God’s people and significant steps on life’s journey. (Oh and England winning the 2003 RWC!)

Hebrews 10:25 “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another…”

2004

Moving into full-time ministry with its fun, frustrations and friendships.

1 Timothy 4:12 “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.”

To be continued – keep watching for the next post!

2009 – So yesterday…

2009-12-31T14:18:00.001-08:00

2010 is upon us. The arrival of a New Year and a New Decade is bound to provoke some reflection on and consideration of the past, but also some looking forward to, dreaming about and preparing for the future. I am no different. And so, over the next few days, I anticipate blogging some reflections on the past, along with some looking forward to the future. I’m not sure how many posts there’ll be, or what nature they’ll take, but do check back & hopefully, there’ll be something of interest for you.
Today, I thought a simple photographic journey through 2009 would work, so, I bring you 2009 through the lens of the Carswells. I’ve limited myself to 3 pictures for each month & I’ve tried to include some pictures you may not have seen before. There have been other highlights, but 3 photos makes it a bit more difficult to include everything!
Enjoy!
January

Carswell whanau (family) altogether, TSCF whanau at Staff & Families Conference ‘09, Us at Hicks Bay on the Eastern Cape of the North Island.
February

Flight over Mt Ruapehu, the new Wellington TSCF team, Sarah Taylor’s visit
March

Meeting ‘The Little General’ & his sidekick Yuvraj in an Auckland Starbucks, the CU/ICF crew, Mel & Peng – 2 gems of student leaders
April

Vic CU camp, Easter outreach at AUT - ‘Who is Jesus?’, Vic ICF & Massey OCF Marae weekend
May

Up Mt Taranaki, a different view of the mountain, home – Wellington
June

“Yes, the gracious hand of our God was on TSCF”, the Mid-Year conference crowd, John Criswell – IFES mate & helping us with our USA links
July

Sam the man
August

Serene, not so serene & his favourite pose!
September

Meeting his grandmother for the first time, open air speaking at MIT’s Spirituality week, a memorable journey to the Marsden Cross with Paul Windsor – a blessing to NZ, me and no doubt, many around the world.
October

Graduating students of 2009, ‘Meet my parents’, do the work of an evangelist…IFES evangelists’ conference
November

Making the most of travel with work – time with friends, old and new!
December

In Australia for the AFES Conference, our first Christmas together, Sam’s first Christmas – he dribbled with excitement.
So, that was 2009 – a good year, a memorable one and one in which the gracious, good hand of God has been on us in so many ways. The work in TSCF has been enjoyable and fruitful, our family has grown, friendships have continued and developed. To God alone be the thanks, praise & glory for all that has gone!

Seasonally Affected Disorder

2009-12-20T13:11:00.001-08:00

I have a confession to make…It’s 21st December, Christmas is just four days away and I don’t feel particularly Christmassy.

Yes, I’ve bought most of my Christmas presents, sung some carols and listened to Christmas tunes on my iPod. We’ve even had the work Christmas party and our Christmas tree is up, but still, I don’t feel Christmassy.

The feeling came strongest whilst sat in church singing ‘Joy to the World’, in my shorts and T-shirt knowing that a Gingerbread Latte from Starbucks just wouldn’t feel quite the same. You see, outside it’s sunny and mostly quite warm. Summer is upon us here in NZ. And therein lies the problem.

As a Christian, I know that Christmas is all about Jesus’ birth. I know that materialism has got the better of our society and that Christmas for many is more about presents, food and family, rather than the real reason being to celebrate Emmanuel, God with us. But what I hadn’t realised was how much I am affected by the season and how much I had succumbed to all its trappings.

Sure, I don’t think I have ever experienced a ‘White Christmas’ (even when I was assured of one in my time living in Lancaster, PA, neither of the 2 Christmasses was white!), but this Christmas doesn’t feel right without the cold of outside and the warmth inside the home.

It’s a sad state of affairs to realise of yourself that your Christmastime has been hijacked by the world’s ideas of what it’s all about, to have been sucked in to the seasonal experience and be robbed of the true of joy of simply celebrating a Saviour’s birth, which truly is ‘Good News of Great Joy for all people.’ This Christmas is our first Southern Hemisphere Christmas and yes, I want to enjoy time with family and friends here in NZ. Yes, I’m looking forward to good food and hopefully, good presents. But more importantly, this Christmas, I need to go back to what Christmas really is all about.

Now…I wonder how many other areas of my life have drifted in their focus away from the way God originally intended?

A “Sweet As” MINTY Year

2009-11-28T00:45:00.001-08:00

Just some brief thoughts as we head towards the end of the year here in TSCF. Universities have finished, for the students, the summer holidays have begun.

Last week was our Student Leadership Conference (SLC). Unfortunately, my post “Missing In Action” was more prophetic than I’d hoped to be, as I was ill in bed with a fever and flu for most of the week, only making it out to 2 sessions. Still, by all accounts, it was a great week, with many folks saying to me “It was the best SLC I’ve been to” – for that, we thank God and thank you for your prayers!

Following on from SLC, I attended the third conference in the year for our Ministry INTernship Year (MINTY). It was in the lovely Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island. What a thrill to spend some time with these folks who have given a year to discipleship, both of themselves and others. It was a joy to be with them.

As part of the conference, each of the MINTerns gave a short presentation reflecting on the year. Sueanne is one of the MINTerns who became a Christian last year. It’s such an encouragement to see the growth in her, and to see her investing in others and also thinking about how she may use her interest and skills in fashion in the future. I have just watched her presentation for the first time and was delighted to see all God has been teaching her and thought it would be an encouragement to you also.

We long for more Sueannes and to see God at work on our campuses in NZ and the impact being felt in every area of NZ society…and beyond!

PS “Sweet As” is a phrase Kiwis use to concur that things are good. For your viewing pleasure, here’s a picture of me modelling my “Sweet As” hoody!

Missing In Action – Student Leadership Conference (SLC)

2009-11-15T11:39:00.001-08:00

This week sees the start of our TSCF Student Leadership Conference. It’s a busy, but fun week, as we bring together our student leaders from around the country to be involved in training & teaching. Our theme this year is “Fit For The King” & we will be looking at 1 Peter.

Andy Shudall, who is our Head of Training (HOT!) will be leading the Bible teaching, though the students get chance each day to explore and study for themselves the passages we are working through. Please pray for Andy, as the teaching really sets the tone for the whole conference. Andy has been off work for some time following a bicycle accident, so it’s good to have him back and we look forward to his input.We also spend regular time in 3 tracks, which are designed for students at different stages in their University life. I will be inputting into each of them, though specifically working with the folks in the early stage of their time at University. We’ll be thinking about making the most of friendships, planning outreach events and for the third track (those about to graduate), I am giving some input on the Gospel and travel.

So, all that needs to be said is don’t fear – I’m not really missing, hopefully, I will be in action! I won’t be around to blog or email this week, but we would really value your prayers for this conference. Please pray it would be a significant time of training and growth for our students, and that this would be felt on our campuses next year as we seek to prepare to make the most of every opportunity.

The Great Escape

2009-11-04T11:04:00.001-08:00

I’ve always enjoyed the film “The Great Escape”. The combination of good humour, goodies & baddies, suspense, drama and excitement, has always appealed to me. I’ve watched the film more times than I can remember and at comical moments in my life have managed to quote lines from the film which bring much amusement. The fact Steve McQueen is one of the heroes of the film adds to it's appeal. The war-time hero which McQueen plays holds an appeal which the sex and violence of James Bond could never quite equal. For me, that Steve McQueen put his trust in Jesus in later life also gives extra pleasure when watching the film.Whenever I travel in Continental Europe, I am reminded of the thrills of the film. My lack of ability in other languages (I only have very basic GCSE French & German) seems to heighten the sense of feeling a foreigner in a strange land. The excellent train network throughout Continental Europe also brings to mind memorable scenes from the film.

This morning, I woke in Schloss Mittersill, in the heart of Austria. Snow was falling and the Alps were resplendent in their majesty with their snow-covered peaks. For the past few days, I have been at the IFES European Evangelists’ Conference. At the invitation of my friend, Lindsay Brown, I joined a group of around 80 evangelists & emerging evangelists from all over Europe, along with one or two from Eurasia and North America. It has been a real thrill and encouragement to hear from folks sharing the message of Jesus throughout Europe. Each day, we met to listen to sample talks given in a variety of settings by folks with experience throughout Europe. We would then meet in small groups and discuss the talks, as well as giving some sample talks of our own & critiquing them. For me, it was a real pleasure to be involved in a group with significant leaders from around Europe, headed up by Rev Michael Green, former Rector of St Aldates Church, Oxford and one of the leading evangelists worldwide in the last 50 years. We had great fun, in our group particularly with some of the leaders of the student movements in the Balkans & that region. I spoke on “She’ll Be Right, I’m Alright & You Can’t Tell Me How to Live” (“She’ll Be Right” is a very Kiwi phrase!) For the rest of the week, I was often met by my group saying “She’ll Be Right!” with a slightly Eastern European lilt to it.You may be wondering - “Why start by talking about the Great Escape & then go on to the IFES conference?” The answer is simple, when I woke, for some reason, my first thought was of the Great Escape. Schloss Mittersill brings many of these war-time images to mind – it was first documents in 1150 so resounds with history, but between 1939-1944, it was occupied and used by SS Officers (including Himmler). Upon waking, I was going to be leaving early in the morning from the conference and had several friends who I wished to say goodbye to. For me, it brought to mind the clips in the film where some of the escapees say “goodbye” as one walks along the train carriage saying “Tally-ho” in hushed tones.    Our goodbyes didn’t have to be quite so secretive, although they were still hushed.

As I also reflected upon the conference and thought of the film, I was reminded by the conversation Steve McQueen’s character, Hilts has with Bartlett (played by Richard Attenborough)

Hilts - “How many are you taking out?” (referring to POW escapees)

Bartlett - “Two hundred and fifty”

Hilts - “Two hundred and fifty?!”

Bartlett - “Yeah!”

Hilts - “You’re crazy!”

Lindsay & the IFES Europe team have the goal over the next few years of training and developing 50 evangelists to be speaking across Universities in Europe – as Lindsay puts it “They’ll be tearing Europe up!” In many ways, it’s a crazy goal, but with God’s help, I pray it will be as significant in the cause of the Gospel as the Great Escape was in the cause of the Allies. On the last day of our conference, we commissioned some of those attending as they were heading around Europe to be involved in University mission work proclaiming the message of Jesus on numerous campuses in the next few days. It reminded me of the POW escapees spreading far and wide from having been together and going about their mission.

Why do IFES have such a mission? For me, the answer comes from the film – again, let me quote. This time, it is Group Capt Ramsey who speaks

“Colonel Von Luger, it is the sworn duty of all officers to try to escape. If they cannot escape, then it is their sworn duty to cause the enemy to use an inordinate number of troops to guard them, and their sworn duty to harass the enemy to the best of their ability.”

And later, Ramsey asks Bartlett

“Did the Gestapo give you a hard time?” To which he replies “Not nearly as rough as I now intend to give them.”

We have no reason to escape this spiritual war we are in – we must fight. However, as we fight, it is our sworn duty to cause our enemy havoc and harass him to the best of our ability. The cost may be great, at times, the work may be hard, but we fight for a King who has already won. We do all we can to fight for our King and make it as rough a time as we can for our enemy.

In closing, the words of Ramsey & Flight Lt Hendley spring to mind as they reflect on the death of (Roger) Bartlett killed by the SS.

Ramsey - “Roger's idea was to get back at the enemy the hardest way he could, mess up the works. From what we've heard here, I think he did exactly that.
Hendley -Do you think it was worth the price?
Ramsey - Depends on your point of view, Hendley.”

For some, the work I am involved in seems strange and pointless, it has its costs and sacrifices. Is it worth it? It depends on your point of view.

“He is no fool, who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Jim Elliott, martyred aged 28.

Ground-shaking Student Ministry

2009-10-21T04:42:00.001-07:00

We recently held an event at our house for those students who were coming to the end of their Undergraduate studies at Victoria University in Wellington. It was great spending time with this good group, reflecting and giving thanks for all that has happened in the past, and looking forward to the future.

We spent some time thinking about the new opportunities of a graduate’s life and ways that students could stay involved with TSCF, Catalyst (our Graduate’s ministry) & IFES. Whilst we were talking about these things, we had a ground-shaking experience – one of the many earthquakes we experience in NZ struck and shook the house. It was the first time it’s happened to me whilst I’ve been speaking, and as ever in Wellington, there was the split-second thought of “This could be the Big One” (The Big One is the big earthquake that is anticipated at some point in Wellington). Thankfully, it wasn’t!

Of the group who were there, the possibilities and potential is great. They are a particularly committed and keen group, who have had a positive influence on the work in TSCF over recent years and we will miss them greatly. Here are some of the things they are hoping to do over the coming years:

* Further studies at Victoria University, Wellington (Mel, the current CU President graduates this year, but is continuing with her Masters & staying involved in leadership.)

* Further studies overseas in USA or UK, and Malaysia (which is home for some of our students)

* Lecturing here in Wellington.

* Getting a job in teaching, with a view to longer term going on the mission field in the S Pacific or SE Asia.

* Getting work in NZ.

* Join our TSCF Ministry INTernship Year (MINTY).

We are excited that the current crop of students who have been reaching other students for Christ are now going into a variety of settings to reach others for Jesus around the world. In many ways, it’s fairly simple, but we long that it would be more than ground-shaking, but world-changing.

When September Ends

2009-10-04T21:50:00.001-07:00

Looking back on the past few weeks, so much has happened & I trust some significant things done. Thank you to those who have prayed for us – here’s a few bits & pieces, some reflections on what’s gone on & some pictures to go with the comments.

The past 2 weeks at Victoria Uni CU, we have looked at Relationships, with my talk on “When Sinners Do Relationships” – looking at relationships from a married perspective & then the following week, Gina Wong spoke on relationships from a single person’s perspective. Both weeks, we used films to show how relationships are portrayed in popular culture, mainly through film, music & literature and then sought to look at what the Bible says. The CU had an unusually large attendance of students who were keen to think about relationships and what the Bible has to say about them. In talking to students, relationships are often where the rubber hits the road & the talk of Jesus being Lord of one’s life has to be lived out. The students listened well & I particularly appreciated the comment of one of them, Simon, who is coming to the end of four years at the University.

“I liked the way the gospel was central to what you talked about... that was the big lesson for me. I have heard and thought about most of the themes before, however not with the gospel context.”

It’s always good to feel appreciated, but particularly when students see the Gospel being lived out in the practical application of nitty-gritty life.

On the Friday, I was up in Auckland and spoke with the Overseas Christian Fellowship there. Again, we were thinking of the implications of the Gospel, but this time on friendships. It is a constant challenge to get students to think outside their current friendships and comfort zones and think how they can best reach those around them on their campus. I am keen to help encourage the students there to think outwardly rather than being inward focused. I was encouraged by Ray Wong’s desire to see students do this & am continuing to meet with Ray on a regular basis to help him & the OCF do this.

Big Ali Lauititi (a Leeds Rhinos & Samoa RL player) with a much smaller Ray Wong!

The Saturday was a real highlight of this year. I had been invited, with around 30 other guys, to join Paul Windsor on his annual ‘Pilgrimage"’ to the Marsden Cross up in the far North of NZ in the Bay of Islands. It’s probably 300kms North of Auckland and a significant journey on winding roads. However, it was well worth the trek. We were driven by Andy Shudall, along with Nigel Pollock and Mark Grace from TSCF, before we eventually met the rest of the group. Paul had deliberately invited friends and family from the various decades of his life, and at each of the stops introduced that decade’s friends, along with sharing some of his life from that time, before we sang a hymn from each decade. Judging by some of the hymns we sang, I suspect Paul’s upbringing may have been similar to mine. The lyrics of the hymn from Paul’s teenaged years was one that we sang at City Evangelical Church in my teenaged years – the words resonated with me again:

Lord, speak to me, that I may speak, in living echoes of Thy tone;

As Thou hast sought, so let me seek, Thy erring children, lost and lone.
O use me, Lord, use even me, just as Thou wilt and when and where;

Until Thy blessed face I see; Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share.

It was a marvellous day, and as we arrived at the Marsden Cross, which was where Samuel Marsden first arrived and shared the Good News of Jesus in New Zealand, I felt the emotion of it all. To think that a Yorkshire lad from Horsforth could have made it across the Seas to this remote point, and all because he wanted to share Jesus with those who had not yet heard was such a powerful reminder to me that this is why we are here. The history of the place, the beauty of the surroundings (we have not been that far North before, but would like to again) and the sense of fellowship with believers from around NZ was wonderful.

In my home town of Horsforth and the neighbouring village of Farsley, are 2 monuments which commemorate Marsden and his work. I’m including them in these pictures, as they link together with the Marsden Cross in understanding who he was and why he travelled so far.



Paul had asked me to share a devotional thought at the cross. What a privilege! I decided to read from 1 Samuel 7:12 where Samuel takes a stone and calls it “Ebenezer” saying “Thus far has the Lord helped us”. I reminded those there that an Ebenezer, the Marsden Cross and indeed the cross itself, remind us to look back & thank God for His help in bringing us this far. They remind us to look forward and remember we are not finished – there is work still to do. And then, together, we looked to God and prayed with thankfulness, but also a sense of need of God to come and work again in these islands.

It was a marvellous day & one I will never forget.

From one Samuel to another…our wee man is doing well and growing rapidly! He’s not sleeping too well during the daytime at the moment, so is tiring Jen in the process. He’s bringing us much joy & happiness. Here’s a few photos from recent days which you may enjoy.

However, in the midst of our happiness, there are others in our area who are in the midst of great sadness. The Tsunami of last week in the South Pacific destroyed parts of Samoa, American Samoa & Tonga, but the impact is felt much further afield. Anthony Hubbard, writing in the Sunday Star Times here in NZ commented

“Samoa is now a kind of virtual suburb of Auckland, or perhaps Auckland is a virtual suburb of Samoa. You can swap between them in not much more than three hours, and there is a kind of commuter Samoan equally at home in both places.”

The links between New Zealand and many of the Pacific Islands are inextricably close as the newspaper headlines below show. There are almost as many Samoans living in New Zealand as in Samoa, and the third most commonly spoken language in NZ is Samoan (after English & Maori). In parts of Auckland and Wellington, the Pacific Island community is very evident. Last week, as we heard reports of the tragedy, it felt much closer to home. On the National news, one reporter broke down in tears as he shared of one family’s loss of 14 family members. At the various sports events this weekend, there was a tangible sense of grief as together we joined with our Pacific Island brothers and sisters who have lost so much. One of the stand-out pieces of news footage was a woman filming the Tsunami, who immediately started praying whilst filming. In the Pacific Islands, there are many who are God’s people, but also an increasing number for whom the beliefs and traditions of the past have been rejected. We are encouraging our students to think of ways which they can help support the relief efforts in the Pacific and join with those in need.

In such a time as this, we need to be reminded that:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” (Psalm 46:1-3)

I know what you did last summer…

2009-09-20T03:28:00.001-07:00

Sunday night (NZ time) as I type this, I’m about to enter a busy week. I knew it was going to be busy when I agreed to a number of speaking engagements, but a number of circumstances have meant I agreed to a variety of speaking opportunities. I would certainly value prayer for the different talks I’m giving & for those who will hear. Here are the places I am this week:

Tues 22nd – Day: TSCF Wellington Team Day (not speaking, but would value your prayers!), Evening: Hutt City Baptist Young Adults Event – speaking on “Jesus: Mon – Sat, Yeah Right!”

Thurs 24th – Victoria University Christian Union – speaking on Relationships

Fri 25th – Auckland University Overseas Christian Fellowship – speaking on Following Jesus with Friendships

Sat 26th – Heading with Paul Windsor & friends to Marsden Cross

Sun 27th – Morning: Preaching at Kumeu Baptist, Auckland on Evangelism & Discipleship to Students, Evening: Preaching at North Shore Baptist

As a man of my word, some time back in a blogpost, I had promised some pictures from the Victoria University CU/ICF Cultural Marketplace, which was held way back at the start of August. For some reason (probably a young chap called Samuel), that didn’t happen – however, here they are. Whilst in the Northern Hemisphere, August is now last summer, here in the South, we’re just entering Spring, which means drawing nearer to the end of the University Year – it’s good to look back & remember what was an excellent night put on by the CU/ICF groups here in Wellington. Enjoy the pictures!



MIT Spirituality Week

2009-09-14T17:32:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I headed up North to Auckland to attend the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) Spirituality Week’s opening day. Heather Brockett (TSCF Associate Staff Worker & Chaplain at MIT) had asked if I would come up to help with some outreach on campus. I had agreed and wasn’t really sure what would be happening or what was best to do, but willing to give it a go.

I was given a 20 minute slot to speak on the “stage” held in the centre quad of one of the 3 MIT campuses. It really was a case of “Jesus amongst other gods”, as I spoke there were stalls representing Buddhists, Muslims & the Bahai faith. It’s some years since I did open air speaking, but in the brief time we had, I sought to grab the attention of those standing by & also to challenge people to consider the unique claims of Jesus Christ. It was a privilege and challenge, so was great to have one or two other students supporting, as well as some of the other Christian Chaplains. Sarah Kwok & Michael Misomphane, who have both become Christians through the work at AUT in the last 3 years shared briefly what Jesus has done for them and how He has changed their lives. It was great to have them and to be able to bring home what being a Christian really meant.

Later, we spent time at the Visual Arts campus giving away Milo & encouraging people to read Luke’s Gospel which we were giving away – we had a number of good conversations through the day.

In many ways, it was a small event and we “played it by ear”. However, the opportunity to present the claims of Christ on campus is significant & I’m hoping to look into doing similar outreaches on other campuses. They are good as simple outreach, but also in training up others in the work of sharing the Gospel. I texted Michael later in the day to thank him, to which he replied

“Hey Ben, no need to thank me. I should thank you & Jesus for giving me the opportunity to come help serve & be a witness to Jesus.”

Oh for more like Michael!
Do pray for others as they continue the work the rest of this week & that we could build on this work with the students in our MIT groups.

Here’s a few photos from yesterday. Enjoy!

View Full Album

Climb Every Mountain

2009-09-09T17:18:00.001-07:00

It often feels that my blog-posts start with an apology for not writing for some time. I’m sorry that it’s been some time, but often it feels better to have written something of significance & substance than to rush a blog post up.

Much of the past few weeks has been catching up on jobs from previous weeks & preparing for a busy few months ahead in the final part of the University year. Most of our students only have 6 weeks of studies left until their end of year exams. It feels like we are in the final strait for this year and so much can be done in the last moments of a race (unless you are Usain Bolt!). We are encouraging our students to make godly choices and prepare and plan for next year so that we make the most of every opportunity.

Last week was our TSCF Staff Training Conference. It’s held just up the road from where we live and is a great opportunity for the TSCF team to join together from around Aotearoa (NZ) and think about how we do our work, how we can be more effective and strategic in helping students reach students for Christ. We had a great few days & took the time to soak ourselves in 1 Peter, which we will be studying with students later on this year at our Student Leadership Conference. I loved reading 1 Peter afresh & being reminded it’s all about living in Christ and for Christ in a world where we will suffer with Christ. For me, those times were the highlight of the week.

The last 2 days were with the National Leadership Team, which consists of the those leading the work in the regions. Again, we had good times thinking about all we do – at times the conversations were honest and robust, but it’s all part of moving TSCF forward and more importantly, part of advancing the Gospel here in NZ.

During the NLT meetings, Nigel took time to talk about our vision for the future. As with many things, he provided a helpful visual illustration of where we are at and where we are headed. I’m hoping that in time, he will blog it in his own words, but for now, you’ll have to hear it from me!

One of the most iconic Kiwi heroes is Sir Edmund Hillary, who died last year. For me, he sums up much of Kiwi ideology & thought – the pragmatic, no-nonsense ordinary person who seeks to do extraordinary things. Of course, he’s remembered as the man who conquered Everest. I think this picture captures some of the ruggedness and toughness that epitomised the man.

Nigel helped us look back at the past few years in TSCF. He moved out here in 2006 and so reflected on things that have happened in those 3 years. Although we have not been around for all of them, I can see the changes and have heard people describe them even since I visited in July 2006. The greater unity and clarity of purpose for TSCF is more obvious, the growth of the staff team and the healthier financial position both speak volumes and altogether, there is a sense of moving forward together for the cause of Jesus here in NZ. Nigel described where we’ve come from as being like the lower ranges of the mountain – we’ve climbed them, tackled them and made it to Base Camp. He even began to sound Churchillian as he described us at being at “the end of the beginning”.

“Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” Sir Winston Churchill

I’m not a climber, but even I know that getting to Base Camp takes hard work and effort. The past 3 years have been harder at times than people thought (I think even for Nigel). There has been pain and toil, but there has been progress. In recent weeks, I have heard of a number of students who have come to faith over the past year – it’s easy to look up and see the task ahead and feel daunted, but when you look back and see where we have come from, there is much for which must give thanks to God.

As we look forward to the future, the task of the next few years remains the same – the climbing is familiar – the work involves students coming to our campuses and we must seek to reach them, share Christ with them and see them grow as disciples and leaders. However, there are some peaks which lie ahead, which though they are challenges will provide highlights on the journey.

09/09/09 (yesterday) may have been a date etched on many people’s minds, but here in NZ, we were reminded it was exactly 2 years to the day that the 2011 Rugby World Cup will start. It’s the third biggest sporting event in the world (after the Olympics and Footy World Cup) and will be huge here. It provides us with some unique opportunities to share the Gospel and we are putting significant thought into how we can seize them. Please pray as we seek to make this a significant time here & not just a bandwagon that we jump on. It is a sizeable peak which provides great opportunities for us and the Gospel.

Christmas Day 2014 may seem some time away and it is. However, it will also be a significant moment in the history of Aotearoa. It will mark 200 years to the day since the Gospel first came to these shores from Yorkshire(!). Again, seizing the opportunity of this peak. Samuel Marsden and the Gospel he brought have had much impact on this nation, but we long for more and we long for a renewed awakening to God’s power at work. Incidentally, in a few weeks, I am going with a small crowd to the Marsden Cross (in the Bay of Islands in the far North) to remember what God has done in the past, but also pray for the future. I’m sure pictures and thoughts will appear on this blog in the future.

Those 2 dates (2011 & 2014) provide points in the distance where we can look towards and see where we are heading. Nigel used them as places we are climbing to, however, they are not the only things we work towards. We long to see more students reached on our campuses – we currently have campuses where we have no staff or groups. Repeatedly I am reminded of Luke 10:2 “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.”

As we paused at Base Camp, we were reminded as we seek to press on there will be dangers and difficulties ahead – we may need to come back to Base Camp over and over again, but we must advance and the Gospel cause must go forward here in NZ. We go forward not for our own glory, or even that of NZ, but for God’s glory and for God’s Kingdom.

As the Apostle Paul reminds us, we “press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

So, back to work, back to the climb – there may only be “blood, sweat, toil and tears” ahead, but we are on the winning side. Whilst times past may have been great , they are past and as we look to the future, we look ahead to what may be the finest hour. Thanks for being with us on the journey – it is great being reminded of those who are with us, supporting us and encouraging us on. And so, for now, let me close with words that keep our focus on why we climb and what we are about. It is because so many do not know our God that we must go on.

Psalm 115:1-8

¹Not to us, O LORD, not to us
       but to your name be the glory,
       because of your love and faithfulness.

² Why do the nations say,
       "Where is their God?"

³ Our God is in heaven;
       he does whatever pleases him.

⁴ But their idols are silver and gold,
       made by the hands of men.

⁵ They have mouths, but cannot speak,
       eyes, but they cannot see;

⁶ they have ears, but cannot hear,
       noses, but they cannot smell;

⁷ they have hands, but cannot feel,
       feet, but they cannot walk;
       nor can they utter a sound with their throats.

⁸ Those who make them will be like them,
       and so will all who trust in them.

It’s Good to be Back

2009-08-02T17:04:00.001-07:00

So much has happened over the past few weeks & it has been an exciting time for me and for us as a family. Sam and Jen are both doing well. Sam is growing and is now almost back to his birth weight. He’s feeding well & becoming more alert and attentive. He’s still learning to get into some of the normal routines of life, but generally is feeding, sleeping, crying & all the other things that babies do. Jen is recovering from the C-section & doing well at being a mum for the first time. She’s not allowed to drive for 6 weeks & has to be careful with some of the normal household chores, so I’m trying to ensure that I’m around and helping out with the everyday stuff.

We are thankful to friends both here in NZ & in the UK who have been so kind and helpful to us. It’s great to have friends who become part of the wider family. TSCF have been brilliant to me and ensured I took 2 weeks Paternity Leave. I’ve realised many folks don’t get this privilege at their workplace, so I’m very grateful that we are well looked after in TSCF – it’s very hard to say thank you to an organisation, so as I know some of my colleagues read this, let me make my gratitude to them known on here! Church & other friends have been making and supplying frozen meals & biscuits/cookies/muffins galore which have kept us well supplied over the past few weeks. We have particularly appreciated the strong sense of community within our church and their care for us has been great.

Today marks my return to work after Paternity Leave. And, whilst I’m sad to be away from Samuel & the hours of watching him & marvelling at how good-looking he is (people have said he looks like his dad, so I’m just taking that as a given), it is also good to be back. The past 2 weeks have been amazing – the reminder of the goodness of God in the wonder of creation, the incredible experience of new life and all that entails and the new adventure of parenthood. However, they’ve also afforded some time for thought & reflection on the student work that lies ahead. I am keen for the next 6 months (and beyond) to be significant, both for me, but also for the work of the Gospel here in NZ.

The challenges are huge. My colleague Andy Shudall was interviewed yesterday on NZ’s Christian radio station, Radio Rhema about the decline in church attendance and involvement amongst young people. You can listen to him here. After some conversations with students just before Samuel was born, I have realised the 4 major challenges we face with the Christian students we work with are: the crisis of friendship, the obstacle of engagement, the problem of discipleship & the challenge of leadership.

The crisis of friendship is that so many Christian students live in a Christian bubble. In fact, let me broaden that – so many Christians live in a Christian bubble. One of my students honestly shared with me “Ben, we don’t have any non-Christian friends.” Whilst disappointed at the statement, I appreciated her honesty. I want to think more about how we can help students in this regard & to implement things which may help them.

The obstacle of engagement is the next step along. When students do have unbelieving friends, many struggle to engage them in meaningful conversations about what being a Christian is all about, who Jesus is & why they believe what they believe. Again, this problem needs addressing.

The problem of discipleship is an over-riding problem. It’s part of the reason for the first two crises. In talking with our students, most of the issues that crop up are to do with basic discipleship. As a teenager, I remember bemoaning that I had not been discipled by anyone (which now I look back on it was not strictly true!), but thinking that I shouldn’t moan about it, but rather get on with discipling others so they weren’t in the same situation as I was! We long to see students going on as fully-committed disciples of Jesus in the Universities around NZ. Part of the problem is the need for more workers, but it is broader than that – we need a culture of discipleship and a zeal and enthusiasm to see discipleship happening widely. I am hoping to up the ante in this regard in the coming months.

The challenge of leadership is one of the more noticeable problems. There are potential leaders around, but they are in short supply. We long to see students lead and be led in a godly manner and yet are aware of the difficulties this raises for many in our current generation. Leadership is daunting and yet, it is also exciting and adventure and we long for more people to join the ride!

I hope to be able to blog more about some of the happenings regarding these in the months ahead, but for the moment would appreciate your prayers & even insights as we seek to address these issues. They are issues that I am wrestling with here in Wellington, but that we are also wrestling with throughout TSCF and beyond. For me, the past few weeks have been significant in “breathing space” away from the day to day hustle & bustle which have allowed some thinking time about all I do and am, and how we can be more effective in the future.

There are times when things happen in the student world which you can claim no involvement in whatsoever. At times, that can be a good thing, as if something goes pear-shaped, you had no responsibility. But, when something goes well, you can claim no credit. On Saturday, the 2 TSCF groups in Wellington, CU & ICF organised a “Cultural Marketplace”. It was a fund-raiser, a promotional event, but also came out of a desire to engage with the cultures of our students. I had no involvement in any of the planning or running of the event. However, in spite of this…no, probably because of this, the event went brilliantly. Nigel Pollock, TSCF’s National Director described it as

“one of the best organized student events I have been to - not just in NZ – ever.”

Foolishly, I chose not to take our camera (I’m a bit photo-ed out at the moment!), but regret that. Probably a couple of hundred people were there over the course of the evening buying & sampling the 10-12 foods from different cultures, as well as enjoying the music and dances provided by various other student societies, Embassies and cultural groups. Mel and Peng, the 2 Presidents of our groups explained what the groups are about and why they exist. They have both been good examples of students who have stepped up to the plate of leadership and have sought to befriend, engage & disciple those around them. I am thankful to God for both of them.

Jen and I took Samuel along for his first big outing. He enjoyed it thoroughly and slept through it all, including the rather loud, but impressive Chinese Lion Dance. Yesterday, he had his first visit to church, which again, he seemed to enjoy – he slept through most of it too!

I’m waiting for students to post pictures on Facebook of the Cultural Marketplace so that I can post some pictures on here – when they have, I will post some…but for now, enough of my ramblings, it’s good to be back…

African Tsunami

2009-07-28T18:42:00.001-07:00

I think you’ll understand things have been busy for us the past few weeks. I will try to post some pictures/thoughts at a later stage (for those on Facebook, I am posting pictures regularly there), however, despite the drama and excitement of a new son for us, the world continues with its needs and troubles. I saw this picture on a blog & it challenged and rebuked me again. We have so much and waste so much, where so many struggle to live from day to day. This picture sums up the struggle. I post it aware that I have much to thank God for, but also aware that I need to be a good steward of the resources I have & to help those less fortunate than myself.

The title of the cartoon is “African Tsunami”, the cartoonist is Alberto Sabat, and the cartoon was published in La Nacion in Argentina.

I am reminded of the verses in Matthew 25, which say “Whatever you did for the least of these for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did to me” and “Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these , you did not do for me.”

Introducing Sam

2009-07-21T10:34:00.001-07:00

The past few weeks have involved much watching & waiting…so, it’s great to finally be able to introduce our new arrival Samuel James Carswell. He arrived on Monday morning (20/7/09) at 11.28am (NZ time) following a 13 1/2 hr labour & an emergency C-section.
Jen & Sam are both doing well & we are thankful to God for his safe arrival and the good health of both he and his mum.
For those interested, he was named Samuel James for several reasons – we like the names, Jen’s dad is named Samuel, we liked the Biblical name links & both names were those of great Yorkshire missionaries of yesteryear – Samuel Marsden, first missionary to NZ & James Hudson Taylor, found of the China Inland Mission, now OMF.
There are more photos from day 1 & 2 since his arrival with us here and here, but for now, let me leave you with two or three of my favourites.

^{Psalm 139: 13-16}
¹³ You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
¹⁵ You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
¹⁶ You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed.