Let's Talk about Love

I wrote this a while ago and in two segments but I feel like there are more people who need to read this. Here it is again.

After saying how great it is that Aaron is always clean and nice looking and cares about how he looks a friend said, 'You better hold on to that one. You got a real catch. How did you find such a great guy?'

Well, I'm writing this to tell you. But, mostly this is just about love in general, at least what I've learned about it. And for those of you who knows these things too - aren't they so true? :)

First, I found him in church. Good guys tend to Love God more than anything else, including themselves. If they do, they will not see you as just another girlfriend; they will see you as a treasure, hand-made by God himself. They will understand you are a gift, wrapped in kisses, and shining with joy. If the guy loves God before anyone else, his goal will be to treasure and cherish the beautiful creation you are. From there, the rest comes.

Second, Aaron has a good relationship with his parents. This is a sign of maturity. Sometimes, there are not strong parental figures in a guys life, but if there are, and he is close to them, it also shows he will respect you. He has seen the example his parents lead and will try to treat you well. If there is not this close relationship, don’t give up, but it can be a good sign he’s going to treat you right.

Thirdly, read 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. See how many of those attributes you can see in your guy. Is he kind? Does he keep record of wrong or does he forgive? Is he proud and stuck-up? If you want true love, well here it is in plain English. Using Jesus’ example as a model, you can tell if your guy will treat you the same.

My parents used to tell me, ‘your husband is going to have to walk on water to be good enough for you’ in other words – if he’s not Jesus, he’s just not good enough. Talk to your parents about this guy if you have a close relationship with them. Moms are usually outstanding judges of character. And girls, parents want the BEST OF THE BEST for their princesses. Seriously. They do! They may give you a hard time about a guy, but that is because they want you to marry the best man for you.

I guess, this should probably go at the top of the list, but it will remain here – talk to heavenly Daddy. God made you cell by cell and He knows who you are down to the molecular level. If you are waiting for that special someone, ask God to bring him to you at the right time. There’s no use having a relationship if it’s going to detract from your purpose, destiny, and calling for that time.

Never look for a guy to complete you. And if your guy ever says, ‘you complete me’, either slap him and walk away and never look back, or tell him, ‘I don’t want that pressure. I’d like to be with someone who is complete because of Jesus; I just complement who you are.’ Then smile and hug him.

Now, I'd like to add a bit to this. Fighting. NOT every couple does it. Aaron and I don't fight. We learn from each other and we both accept that we are not the final authority on any one thing. We disagree at times, yes, but we never yell or argue in a demeaning manner. We are never rude to one another. We don't spitefully disagree. We accept that we are on a journey to learn from God and one another together. We understand there will be times that we disagree and will argue. But we both want to live by what the Bible says on this subject - "Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive, forgive as quickly and thoroughly as God did." Ephesians 4:31-32 is pretty clear. Don't be mean and rude to each other, even when you disagree. Ask the Lord to guide your arguments. If your goal is to find a solution rather than just being right chances are you will succeed in finding a solution! Peacefully.

Finally, my mom once said, ‘Destiny, never marry a guy you’re not intoxicated with.’ If you don’t love him to the stars and back again, you’re settling. And if he doesn’t love you past the stars and back again three times, you’re settling.

Oh, and last thing, I promise, if he ever says he can’t live without you...walk away. That’s not attractive or romantic. And never tell a guy that. It’s not true, unless you share organs or something and you literally would die without each other.

For those of you who are married to the right, Godly, loving man - share your thoughts too! It's such a help to learn from you and your examples. :)

And I love, love, LOVE that I learn more about love and what it means with each day I am in this amazing relationship with my true beloved.

The Pursuit

Ah, this fall weather! How beautiful. I have been able to spend an exorbitant amount of time outdoors recently and have enjoyed every moment. I am surprised at what God has been teaching me through it. Though Creation testifies the goodness and glory of God, I seldom take time to listen and recognize it speaking to me. Lately however, I have been making an effort to do exactly that. Listen. Feel. Recognize.

Our backyard is pretty magical right now. There are so many trees and they are full of leaves and happy branches. Sitting outside on the deck as I write this, I can hear the branches swaying peacefully in the breeze. Peace. What an amazing example of trusting the Lord. The trees don't try to stand up against the wind. They don't resist its pushing and pulling. Each tree is made to withstand the everyday movement of the wind. How much more should we be trusting that we have been made to withstand the every day push and pull of this world? We have been equipped with the Word and its bounty of tools. If I could be like a tree and not waver my grounded roots which have been planted solidly in the Word of God, I would be able to face each push and pull with greater ease and peace.

I've been reading today about "The Pursuit of Holiness". Written by Jerry Bridges, this book is taking me deeper into what it means to be holy and how I can strive each day to become more and more so. Today specifically I have read about meditating on the Word so that it can be used as a weapon against temptation for sin. Any sin - complaining, jealousy, sexual immorality, and even stress! Bridges write about being disciplined in the Word. Using the example of a baseball player who has been habituated into an incorrect stance and grip of the bat, Bridges illustrates our need to consciously make an effort to change our bad habits. A disciplined intake of the Word involves planned time. A balanced intake of the Word requires hearing the Word taught by our pastors and teachers, reading the Word ourselves, studying the Scriptures intently, and memorizing key passages.

Bridges beautifully explains meditating using the following steps:

1. What does this passage teach concerning God's will for a holy life?

2. How does my life measure up to that Scripture; specifically where and how do I fall short?

3. What definite steps of action do I need to take to obey?

What simplicity this can be?! Too often we get overwhelmed with the great wealth that is the Bible and we miss the perfect instruction contained within. I am planning to put this method into practice on a daily basis.

Never before have I felt so encouraged in my walk with the Lord. I have felt so much freedom in reading this book. Knowing that Holiness is something very important to God and it doesn't just involve abstinence from sex or pornography. Holiness is a daily walk with God. It is through this holiness that we gain true intimacy with our First Love; without it no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14)That's deep. But I'm glad I know that now. I have been more inclined to take mundane choices with greater seriousness and caution knowing that every word and thought play into a holy life before the Lord. But I can do it! I can be holy. By the grace of God and the sacrifice of Jesus I can be holy just as He is holy.

One way I have been putting what I've learned into practice is through the use of index cards. I write scriptures on them and put them on my wall as a reminder of what the Bible says about my holy walk with Jesus. Memorizing these Scriptures and meditating on what they mean in my life are perfect ways of proliferating a vast cash of weapons to use against temptation! When I recognize sinful thoughts or desires, I know I can consult with my Helper, the HOLY Spirit, and decide, based upon the Scripture stored within, what the correct way forward is. HOLY SPIRIT!!! Yes, this has been one of my favorite revelations in my Pursuit. Jesus sent His Spirit to dwell within us and work holiness in us. Though is is our responsibility to walk out the holiness we seek, we have already been equipped with the very Spirit of HOLINESS. The HOLY Spirit is within me to help me become HOLY!! Who thinks of it that way?!? I didn't until this book changed my understanding.

Bridges was given a formula for "How to Know Right from Wrong" and it looks like this:

* Question 1: Is it helpful - physically, spiritually, and mentally?

* Question 2: Does it bring me under its power; does it control me?

* Question 3: Does it hurt others?

* Question 4: Does it glorify God?

I can think of so many instances where had I taken the time to ask myself even one of the above questions regarding a certain action or thought, I would have chosen a much holier option. I'm not saying this is easy. I know it is a daily discipline. I understand physical discipline.Having a boyfriend who takes "My body is a temple" very seriously, I understand the daily battle involved in making good, healthy choices. I have become more focused on eating healthier and in disciplining my schedule enough to make time for regular exercise. To the right is the Workout Program I am mostly doing (I say mostly because I don't actually workout every day like that suggests). Seeing the effort I put into making my body a good temple, I understand the work it will take to make my Spirit, Heart and Soul a holy temple. But, I can do it! And so can YOU!

I sincerely hope this has encouraged you and has helped you take a closer look at your walk in holiness. It is such a good feeling to know what God wants from me and that I can give it to Him! Wow. Oh Happy Day!!! 

England

I leave Wednesday for England finally! It has been a long wait but I believe it will prove well worth it. The Lord has had His hand in all of my plans and the situations surrounding them. I have learned to trust, wait, trust some more, and rest in His arms. There is nothing He cannot do on my behalf. I am ready for new things, new places, and new people. I'll be keeping you updated on my travels and the times I have abroad, so stay tuned. :)

NYC

Last week I had the pleasure of going to New York City with a close family friend for three days. I had the intention of meeting with some people who are organizing an award ceremony in honor of Canon Andrew White in October. I planned on seeing the venue and finding out as much as I could about what to expect in October and in order to plan some sort of luncheon or fund raising event for the Foundation of Relief and Reconciliation. It was really wonderful to spend an entire day walking the streets of Manhattan. Central Park may be one of the most peaceful, Heavenly places on Earth! It was lovely. The Apple store on 5th Avenue had Christina Aguilera just outside giving a concert for NBC. H&M was also a treat! I got to go in FAO Schwarz toy store and take pictures of almost every inch of the amazing wonderland! I tried sushi for the first time, ate yummy Indian food, and got to see my cousin after about four years! It was a really great time and I love NYC! I made some wonderful connections for the future. Though I have been worrying about the outcome and progress of my visa application and still being here, I have been able to rest in the timing and plan of the Lord. I know there are reasons why I am still here, NYC is one of them. Having extra time with my family, Melanie, and Aaron. The Lord is so good and always has our best in mind. All we have to do is submit to the perfect plan He has. Sometimes it is not that easy but sometimes we are able to submit and fall deeply into the perfect arms of the Father. Those are happy days.

Here.

Here I am, the week I was planning to move to England and begin a new adventure....and I am nowhere near being able to leave. Still in need of some documentation from the UK then reapplying for a visa. It's been nice to have time with the man I love and with my best friend and family. Though I am excited to be going to England, meeting new people, and making a difference, it is lovely just being home with my amazing life here. I've been able to rest in the timing of the Lord. God is good.

Jeremiah

What a good book. All about Israel's big time FAILS and their rebellion, sin, outright hatred for God...and then BAM! God's like, "Hey, if you just admit you were wrong, I'll be glad to take you back - My arms are open right here waiting!" At every wrong turn, there He is, waiting, longing for us to just let go of the counterfiet desires we've been seeking. He's calling us constantly to accept teh best He has for us - perfection! What a God. I love Him. Jeremish, though bleak at times, offers me hope that God is always loving and forgiving me. Thank you Jesus.

28.

blah. Exam week. Lots to do. Finishing up Visa Application and praying it comes back approved try number 1! In Jesus' name. Had a great conference loving on Jesus. Back to writing assignments...

31 days

In 31 days I will graduate University. Four years have passed seamlessly and I am in awe at the many adventures and wonderful things which have unfolded before me. God has been exceptionally good to me these past four years and I have learned and grown so much. I'm gearing up for a year in the UK as an intern for the Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East. I am excited to see what else He has in store for me. So, here we go life!

One week

So here I am a week from coming home after four and a half months in Australia. It has been adventurous and educational and fun! I've learned alot about God and His plan and His goodness. I feel that I have grown a bit as the woman I am supposed to become. Which is nice. This adventure has surely prepared me for what I know lies ahead and that is a good thing. Studying at USC has been one of the best experiences in my life. Studying with Aussies has been so fun. My favorite would have to be two Aussies in my Asia class who have served in the Middle East in the Navy and Army. They always gave me a hard time about America but in good fun and I liked playing into their sarcasm. It's been a journey I wouldn't trade for anything. I've had to rely solely on the plan of God which shouldn't be hard since it's always perfect. Being here and on my own, away from family and the familiar has really made me trust that plan and know that I'm better for doing so. I've learned how close the Holy Spirit is and how I can accept his leading instead of fighting what I have inside of me - peace, joy, patience, and knowledge. I know they are apart of who I am supposed to be and tapping into those now is much easier. I just tell my flesh to make room. Getting to know my housemate Ashlie has been one of my favorite things. She and I have become pretty good friends. I like talking to her and listening to her, mostly listening though (Ashlie if you read this...:) I love you). She is fun and I will miss her terribly. The kids at Kings have also been champions! Seriously great kids. Really in love with God and totally on fire for His plan. It was an honor being able to do waca and come to rehearsals and really witness excellence in singing and in the musical aspect of worship. These people are so dedicated! They come three hours before service and don't leave till hours after because they are completely dedicated to the service they give to the Lord and His people. Helping with media and singing at Youth and on Firday nights was an absolute blast! Having to cook for myself has been fun. Ashlie and I made a roast lamb and that was astoundingly delicious! I missed Lucky Charms, Panera, Chick fil A, and Zappatas but I can remedy that when I come home. Of course, then I will miss Cadbury. Oh Cadbury chocolate, I shall miss you dearly. You were such a good companion to me in times of need. Thank you. :) But man i am glad to be coming home for Christmas! Yay! And then one more semester at home and then off for another adventure in Petersfield UK in June. Always up for another adventure. Always happy to meet new people and change lives. So, soon I will be home. It's been Good Oz, thanks for the good times. See you again soon!

Two new friends

I went running today later than I usually go in order to miss the sun’s midday wrath. As I ran past one of the workout circuits in the neighbourhood near my apartment, a little boy called out to me, “Hello!” “Hi!” I responded a bit surprised. The child wore a red shirt, board shorts and flip flops; he had been standing on the body curl bench. I stopped and he asked “Are you coming on this thing? It’s for exercise.” “Maybe on the way back ok?” I kept going. I hoped he would still be there after I had finished my run. As I ran back towards the workout circuit and my apartment, I could see his little body hanging from the chin up bar. I stopped to do dips on the bench and he started a conversation with me. Another woman came to the circuit to do some push ups and the boy exclaimed, “There are lots of people here now! I remember you. You were running that way.” “Yes I was. And I said I would come back, and here I am.”
He began to explain all the parts of the circuit and looked at the poster which explains how each part is performed. He told me to do number, ‘ten, eleven TWELVE!! You’re at number twelve.” We proceeded to speak about the different parts of the circuit. I started to do some body curls and he asked what it was called. Then he told me he was “nearly seven.” “Nearly Seven?” “I AM seven.” I moved on to another push up bench but pushed some pine needles out of the way so I wouldn’t slip. He tried helping me with his hand but got poked by them. “Where did all these things come from? What are they? They hurt.” “They are pine needles and they come from that tree right there.” As I was doing some mountain climbers, his brother, Ben rocked up and asked if the younger boy told mom where he was. “Morgan, do you want to go home?” his brother asked. We three began talking about the pine trees in the U.S. and Ben told me they were from Essex England and they had just moved to Sunshine Coast Tuesday. Ben goes to high school next to my uni. The two boys were absolute dolls! I was having so much fun I didn’t want to walk home. Morgan showed me his ‘sports watch’ and told me the time. It was such fun. Those boys made my day! I hope I run into them again.

I miss children. I miss Madison and Emma from the daycare. They bring me such joy.

Coolum Kite Festival

Today Jillian, Suzy, and I went to Coolum Beach for the Kite Festival. The beach was really nice and we got to swim by the edge of the coast where there were some cliffs and boulders. Pretty! This week begins Week 9 of the Academic Calendar leaving 4 weeks of classes. My classes seem to be going pretty well. I have heaps of work do right until the end of the semester but am staying ahead. We'll have a week off before exams and that will be much needed for rest and study. The following two weeks will be for exams. I only have 3 this semester which will be nice. This week at Kings is State Conference. I will be singing in choir for the night sessions and doing media on Tuesday afternoon. It's so nice not having to work. I have lots of time to devote to study and helping with Media at Kings. I am currently working on two papers regarding Terrorism and a project for Marketing. The weather has started changing and now it is pretty hot. Not much else has changed. Still loving it Down Under but will be glad to come home to my family and friends. Later!

p.s. check out my Coolum Kite Festival pics in the Oz Two Album. :)

Some Highlights

I had a chance to speak to a guy after youth Saturday night about the prophetic and miracles and it got me so excited. I was vibrating with Holy Ghost electricity as we were speaking. This man and his wife are from Adelaide and their church there was deep into prophecy and Holy Spirit power, glory, signs, wonders, and miracles. And he and I had the opportunity to talk about our similar heart for seeing and working in that for this generation! It was exciting. I pointed him to All Nations website www.maheshchavda.com and to Aaron’s website www.alcdesign.org as I was able to talk to him about both the church and Aaron’s testimony of being born at 25 weeks weighing less than a pound and surviving past doctor’s expectations! Glory to God!! WHOO!!

Friday night we had an anointing service at Kings One. I was asked to do Graphics during the service so I had to keep the lyrics coming at a good pace for the singers and congregation. It was so much fun! Pastor Steve had some prophetic words for a few people and prayed over them. One guy, Reuben http://reubenskewes.blogspot.com/, was told that he has the ear of a generation! That was so powerful! And knowing Reuben a little, I know it is the truth.

Youth Camp is coming up this week and I may be going. It is a week full of God encounters, worship, fun, hang out time, and relaxation. I don’t have the money to spend on it, but if God wants me to go, He will provide. Always Glory, Always Praise. YES! YES! YES! God is good.

Half Way Through

So this is week 7 and our mid-semester break begins next week. We have a two week break which will be a much needed time of relaxing and reading for leisure. I finished the last of the Time series – An Acceptable Time and it was such a good one! Now I am beginning another series by the same author the Austin Family series. Let’s see. I got a package from the familia full of books and Office DVDs. So the past two weeks have been full of Michael Scott’s ‘funtivities’! Mom sent me Only Love can Make a Miracle, the Hidden Power of Prayer and Fasting, and the Hidden Power of Watching and Praying. I asked for these books to be sent for me to give to the pastors here at Kings. September is Miracle Month at Kings and having come from All Nations where Pastor Mahesh ministers in miracles often, I want to be a vessel for the Lord. Kings is very open to the Lord moving and I am excited for the things He decides to do for us here. We have been talking about faith in church and having greater expectancy. It has been encouraging. I have been able to get more into the Word lately and my spirit has truly benefited from that. I am reading Romans at the moment and have been highlighting verses that really speak to me. There are many. I am also putting scriptures on my walls and reading them over myself before bed each night. It get’s me to think about and believe the blessings that God has for me. I would encourage everyone to do the same – write scriptures about prosperity and blessing and declare them over yourself. Bring the blessings to life. Whenever I come against something that is stressful or that worries me, I am able to look around my room and say, ‘No, I am blessed. Relax and rest, God has showered you with blessings.’ It is very helpful.

Last week I was stressing about some school things and instead of staying up till late and working on it and stressing the entire time I just got ready for bed and read Romans and talked to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit and fell asleep in such peace around 9:15. I woke up in such a better place. I’ve never really spoken to the Holy Spirit as a separate part of God. I have thanked the Holy Spirit and asked for her help but I hadn’t ever just talked to her about my day. Well, I did that and it was such fun. Pastor Bonnie has likened the Holy Spirit to the female aspect of the Godhead and I like that idea. I have begun treating the Holy Spirit as such and it’s been like having a big sister...who knows everything. I like to talk to God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit as if they were right next to me. And thinking about them being with me, physically with me, is so great! It helps adjust the way I act because I know they are watching and cheering me on and encouraging me to do the right things!

I have gotten involved with the worship team here and got to sing in the choir Sunday, which was Father’s Day here. I called my Dad and wished him a happy Australian Father’s Day! That was great. Oh, back to the books – I gave Only Love to Pastor Steve and encouraged him to read it and see what God has shown Pastor Mahesh through Love and Miracles. He thanked me and said he had been following Mahesh and had seen his name here and there. I also gave the Watching and Praying book to Dusty- the youth leader. Once a month the Youth does Midnight Mass after the Friday night meeting. We stay after and pray until midnight. We also eat pizza and pancakes! Yum. I’ve been going to the church to do some video editing as well. I have been working on an Apple Cinema HD Display 30” Flat Panel Mac in Final Cut Pro. is all I can say. I even got to make a short clip about the recent work day they had to ‘spruce’ up the church. I cut a bunch of clips from a captured piece and put it to music and did some transitions. Richie said he’d tweak it a little and upload it to the website. When he does, I’ll put a link to it! It was such fun. I will be greatly equipped when I come home to help with video announcements at ANC – that will be AMAZING!!

I now have 11 weeks left of my time in Australia. Last weekend I went with my housemate and a friend to Brisbane. We went to DFO – a big outlet mall (like Concord Mills) near the airport. We also went to China Town in Brisbane. It was kind of small but I got some good pictures of Brisbane. I will be going back soon though. I also plan on going to an aboriginal market during break too! I have noticed that the workload here is quite different than in the US. Instead of having to write 12-15 page papers, my challenge is two tackle broad subjects in 1,000 words. I just finished an essay on the Importance of China to Asia...It had to be 500 words! I was struggling with my papers but spoke with one of my professors and got some good input so I can improve my grades. I am aiming for ‘high distinction’ in all my subjects. They have a different grading scale which includes HD, Distinction, Credit, Pass, and Fail. Anyways, that’s pretty much the extent of my update. You can always contact me at destiny_el@yahoo.com.

Update - Because Mrs Z. asked

I have settled into classes and am getting the hang of two classrooms for each class – one for 2hr lectures, and a different one for 1hr lectures. Hmmm, there isn’t much to update. I was able to go with Amy to WACA – worship and creative arts – on Tuesday night and will be spending a few Tuesday nights with the team then auditioning and joining the choir and maybe get to do Youth before I leave. I have a feeling I won’t want to leave in November though. I \’d like to transport a long list of people here and live in Australia forever. That would be fine by me. But I have some unfinished business at home and around the world that I will be involved in taking care of so Australia will have to wait for my return. But things are good. Still a bit cold and windy but I am excited for summer to come! I’m used to sleeping with a fan and having the buzzing noise drown out all other sounds but haven’t got one here so my nights are far from restful. I am still waking up to loudy loud birds around 6am who sing me awake until 7am and then leave at which point I am obliged to fall back asleep. I’ve been really getting into prayer more and praying in the spirit more often and getting into the word. I found an Australian New Testament with the outline of Australia on the front and I’ve decided to read it like I’d read any other book – front to back. And I’m highlighting all the passages that I find powerful, funny, odd, or just interesting. I often find when I read with purpose I find more. Profound I know. I’ll put up a picture of the Bible so check out the link to the right of this blog for pictures! I’ve been spending more time with the kids from Kings. Tuesday was Big Night Out – where all the Knect groups come together the first Tuesday of the night and worship together and hear Pastor Steve Penny speak about the focus for the month and reiterate anything the Lord has been speaking to him for the body. After church I went with Ben and Chrissy to McDonalds. We then went to the beach and sat on a big boulder overlooking the ocean and the reflection of the moon and ate our burgers. After climbing some rocks and feeling like I might die if I fall – scary – we went to Lucy, Sam, Brooke, and Lauren’s house to watch High School Musical 3. It was fun times with lots of singing – Little Mermaid mostly.
Now, I am sitting in the apartment alone – it is Uni night at the club downtown and drinks are cheap so kids all head that way for the evening. The tele is on in the lounge room and my door is open because I don’t like to be alone in a house. So voices are good. I am starting work on my oral presentation for next week in International Politics because I decided to get mine out of the way and go first. Overachiever – well trying to be! Ha! Um, let’s see. I miss kids. Just in general I miss children being around. I forgot how much joy they bring me. At WACA the other night there was a 2 yr old boy with his mom and I was making faces at him and making him smile and hide in his mom’s shoulder while we sang. I miss my kids at the daycare! Heaps and Heaps! I hope I get to spend lots of time with kids in my life. They are so very important o me. Being able to positively influence and affect a child is one of the most powerful investments one can make – and most rewarding I think. I am still looking and praying for a job. I’ve been applying at places in the mall and sending my resume but haven’t heard anything yet. The zoo hasn’t gotten back in touch with me either. But Lucy said she would take me to the zoo which would be exciting! I’ve never been to a zoo – and no the Bolivian rain forest doesn’t count as a zoo! Ha ha! I’ve also applied to go to the capital Canberra (CAN-bera) for two days in September for an International Student Roundtable. It is organized and paid for by the Australian government and used as a tool to hear what the experience is for International students in Australia. I am really praying for favor for this. It would be such an honor to play a role in advising the Australian government on ways to improve their system as well as commend the many wonderful things they already are doing. Please pray for favor for this for me! It would be an amazing experience. I would be meeting heads of State such as the Deputy Prime Minister. Go here to find out more about it - http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/RndTblInfo.htm

I was able to speak to my family today on AIM Talk and it was wonderful! JJ's voice is going to be deeper when I come back I think. I miss my sister and brother heaps and heaps! JJ wanted to know about my apartmenT – he emphasized the T at the end! I hope I’ll be able to talk to the kids at the daycare soon! It would be such fun to hear their little voices again. Yay for kids! Australian Idol starts Sunday and I am excited for that.
Not much else to report. My shower leaks and my sink drips so I’ve had to shut my bathroom door when I sleep. But yeah, things are good, God is great , and life on the Sunshine Coast is grand!

Update - More about Kings

Hillsong Worship Pastor, Darlene Zscech was at Kings Church Friday night and she spoke on Prayer. She spoke about the importance of pure, zealous prayer. Prayer and praise go hand in hand. Don’t complicate the goodness of God; Thank Him in everything – it is His will; don’t fret or have anxiety about anything but in everything give Him thanks; Prayer is about trust; keep your mind on Him and you’ll have peace. These were all points she made about the power of prayer and praise. Darlene, or Darls as she likes to be called, shared of a time she went to Lima, Peru and was able to see dire, complete, desperate poverty. She teared up as she told the story of one woman who had nothing, who had broken a ligament in her leg and could barley use it and was in crippling pain with no medicine or medical attention, but she wanted to thank God for her life. She wanted to praise Jesus for her family and for the beautiful day. Darls shared about that experience and how it wrecked her. She was so ashamed to be called a Christian when standing next to this powerful prayer warrior. She wanted to be as adamant about Jesus as the woman in the dirt hut was. And Darls shared that she is now becoming so much bolder in her prayers. She encouraged us to prayer with expectancy and with thanksgiving in our mouths for the miracle. It was really powerful! After the service I was able to talk with her as she was heading upstairs to the leaders lounge. And I told her about the Watch on Friday nights and Pastor Mahesh’s book The Hidden Power of Prayer and Fasting. I thanked her and Hillsong for all of their worship and told her we’ve been doing their stuff for years and are so thankful for their hearts. She thanked us for doing the Watch and said that they [Hillsong] was right there with us and were adamant about prayer and fasting as well! She gave me a big hug and it was amazing. I almost started crying talking to her – she just leaks the presence and spirit of true worship. Oh it was powerful!
Then Saturday night was Empire Youth and I was invited to come to the leader’s meeting beforehand and told the schedule of events for the evening. The setup is at 6pm everyone arrives and the back of the church is set up for games – table tennis – a huge Wii screen with couches and chairs, and three bungees hanging from the steel beams of the ceiling and kids were just free to play and swing and talk. There was coffee and Milo [which is delicious and I’ll bring some home – worry not] for kids to drink and music videos up on the screens in the front. Then at 7 the band starts up and everyone comes to the front. All the lights are out except the stage lights and it’s set up like a concert. And they did just one song and then an announcement video came up about upcoming youth events – camp, the monthly youth focus – Generosity, etc. Then Pastor Dusty (youth pastor) asked if anyone suffered from fear attacks and that God wanted to deliver them and we laid hands on them and prayed for kids. And then we went back to the back for a group game called the cube of death. Two people were wrapped in blow up mattresses and tied up in the bungees and hanging about four feet off the ground. And the bungee in the middle was tied around a mattress. One team was on each end of the back with a big foam cube and a person on top of the cube. The goal was for each team to make it to the other side without the person falling off the cube. The catch was that the two people in the blow up mattresses were being swung around by two guys and the middle mattress as being swung as well. So they had to dodge the swinging people and mattresses. So, needless to say it was very exciting but the mom in me came out a few times and I did the classic mom gasp and cover your mouth. It was fun though. There was also a skateboard ramp set up outside the church. When you get to Empire Youth, the foyer has loud music playing with a sign in table with info cards for new kids and some greeters. After the cube of death we went back for more worship and Dusty speaking on Generosity. We also watched a video that some guys at the church made – called Jeanerosity. Where this one guy goes up to people in the street and asks them if they like his jeans and tries to give his jeans away as a means of being generous. It was hilarious but the kids enjoyed it. They don’t care if they break the rules and act stupid, they do things to attract young people and then once they’ve got their attention, they love on them and bring them to Jesus. It was great! Then offering, another song, and the end. But afterwards, people are free to keep playing Wii and eat pancakes. So it is a really great time and loads of fun. Probably 150 kids there. I even swung on the ropes and have two bruises from the rope – not so fun, but still a little fun.
Kings is really about getting people out to church events. At each service there are video announcements about the next months activities and functions. There is a Charity Golf Game, A Vintage Fashion Show Tea, and lots of other things. One thing they are doing next Sunday is Servolution Sunday. Where they set up booths for each of the departments you can serve in and they require you give a six month commitment. And each six months they do it again and it keeps people involved but gives them the freedom to get involved with something else after six months. I haven’t seen their Heros kids church yet but I have a class with the Kids Pastor and will be speaking with him more about it. Aaron, you would have fainted if you had seen the size of the mac in their editing suit. OH MY GOSH!! It was beautiful! All cordless mics, different drummers set up their own kits, two soundboards and a light board operator. Only musicians have in-ears. Everyone else has their own monitor and the sound is cranking!! And guess what…NO FEEDBACK!! What!!?? I know, miraculous. Ha! There is a soundboard stage left off the stage and that guy mixes the musicians in-ears and singers’ monitors. I like this guy. The stage is really cool. It has a catwalk that comes out from underneath and stairs for it that all get pushed into the front. Speakers and light coming out of your ears and guess what else – they can film in the dark!!! Super cool, I know! There could be three can lights on and they can still use the video cameras! Ha ha!! So, yeah, they have a really good set up and they use technology really well.

Update - Woolys

So postage is quite expensive – well relative to what I am used to in Charlotte. It’s $1.40 for cards, and $2.10 for letters. Even post cards are $1.40. But whatever, I had to send out thank you cards from my party. Today is Wednesday and finally I start class. This afternoon at 4pm I will have my first class at Uni. From 4-6pm I will have a lecture in International Politics. The lectures are held in big theaters and hundreds of students attend. Then at a different period – usually there are five of six periods to choose from – we each go to a one hour tutorial. And the tutorials are taught by different teachers – known as tutors – and these classes are much smaller. There should only be about 26-30 students in each tutorial. I am used to that size at Queens and it allows for a great exchange between professor – or tutor – and student. These tutorials involve instruction for upcoming assignments as well as discussion of the topics touched on in each lecture. Week one is the easiest because there are no tutorials. Next week I will have lectures and tutorials.
Sunshine Coast takes good care of its International Students. They have workshops that teach students how to write assignments using the Harvard system of referencing. Student Services helps students know what is expected of them at this Uni; which is really helpful. I am signed up for the class “Assignment Writing @ USC for International Students” which meets the next three Fridays from 10am to noon. It is really helpful and will help me not be overwhelmed with understanding the requirements. Also at this Uni – which is what everyone here calls University because Australians like to shorten everything – each class posts a course outline before the class begins. In the course outline is every assignment for the term, every reading, everything that will be graded, and all the requirements for each. This was very useful in planning things out. I’ve already gotten two weeks of homework done for one class and one week’s homework done for another class. Staying a step ahead!
At the front of the development is a shopping center with a grocery store and banks and post and video store. Last week I walked to the Woolworths (grocery) and it was about a half hour walk there. I bought my groceries and decided the only way I could get all the things I had bought back to my house was to push a trolley (grocery basket) back to the apartment. Well, in Australia, the trolleys have wheels that turn 360° and the sidewalks are slanted towards the road…so my walk back was quite an unadventure. It was ridiculously frustrating! The basket was very heavy and kept rolling toward the road. It was disastrous. Everyone I passed asked if I needed help. Well, yes was the obvious answer but I couldn’t very well ask a stranger to help me push my buggy for 30 minutes. By the way, why do people say a ‘prefect’ stranger? If they are a stranger how could you possibly know they are perfect? What makes a stranger perfect? Anyway, if Melanie was here she’d be able t o answer that question…so I finally got the trolley to my house. I and the trolley and even the eggs were in one piece. And I parked my trolley with the other 15 trolleys that other Uni students had already taken. I vowed to take one back. And today I did. I walked the trolley back to Woolys as I have come to call it like the natives.
I also went to the post and sent some cards and letters and now I am going to read “An Acceptable Time” by Madeleine L’Engle. I forgot to bring “A Swiftly Tilting Planet” to read it again, but I have “Meet the Austins” - the first of another series by the same author. And when I am finished with the Time series – of which An Acceptable Time is the final book – I will start the Austins. And I am going to sit on our balcony in the sun.

Update Five - Kings Church

Kings Church – the best thing that could happen to me here! Oh my! I was moved to tears during worship. It was so amazing to worship with a young group of kids who are truly passionate about God and talented beyond belief. I was blown away by worship. It was great! The drummer is a girl! The lady worship leader has an AMAZING voice! But they are all great and really in love with God. The sermon was preached by a guest pastor – whose name I forget. But he preached on the story of the ten lepers and the value of thank you. He spoke about the one leper who thanked Jesus and that his thank you was counted as faith. The pastor said we should all be more thankful and put real value in that because it connects three realms of time. Past – you a re showing value to the person for something they have done; Present – you acknowledge them and make them feel good now; Future – your thank you empowers and inspires them to act in the future! AH! It was so amazing. But the coolest part was that last week, the home pastor spoke on the same story and no one told the guest speaker about it!
The church has the thing called the 300 miracles. On two walls there are all these really cool looking shields that represent a donation of $5,000 to the building project. And they emphasize that miracles follow the shield of the Lord. It is really cool! They are all about believing in healing. There hasn’t been any hands laid on anyone yet but they said, put your hand up if you need healing. We’re all going to believe for a miracle for you! It was like my spirit was sleeping beauty and Kings was the Prince that kissed it to wake it up. I believe there is another level of glory and passion that I will be stepping into here and I am excited!! I met some really cool people too! The knect leaders – Richie and Rachel – are moving into an apartment and have rented out the rooms of their two houses to some of the young adults at the church. I met all their tenants and I am so excited about spending time with them. Lucy is one of the new tenants and has said that we will be having a good many Disney Princesses Slumber Parties. The best part is that the two houses are a five/ten minute drive from where I live so I will have an abundance of rides to church stuff!! Wahoo! Oh man I am stoked! Life is good on the Sunshine Coast. Miraculous and wonderful. I am really believing God for this job at Australia Zoo! And watching and listening to the Hillsong stuff is doing me some good as well! Oh man I love God!!
Richie is the head of the camera and web streaming and creative stuff at the church – like the video announcements. When I told him I know all about it he was so excited! He said we could do some cool stuff together. So I will be learning about the video announcements – what it takes – and some editing stuff too! Oh man, I feel like I am going to come back with all these upgrades! You need to get the Hillsong CD! It’s so amazing! A new level of amazing! And this upcoming Friday Darlene Zschech will be at Kings Church. WOAH!! Man! God is awesome! Love it.

Update Four - Job

So I applied for a position at Australia Zoo! They have a store at the zoo that has weekend shifts available. They are only open until 5 so I wouldn't be out late and a bus goes straight there from the campus bus station - the zoo's 20 minutes away. Pray I have favor with this! I updated my resume and sent it in and called them to let them know to be looking for my application online. It would be a GREAT opportunity because it would be heaps of fun and good experience. I would love this job working at AUSTRALIA ZOO!!! Pray for favor. I am thanking God for this opportunity and favor for the go ahead.

Update Three

Today I went to all the information sessions and the BBQ – which consisted of hotdogs on a slice of white bread with barbeque sauce. I had just the hotdog and bread. I am getting so hungry but am trying not to spend money my first week and go from there. In our welcome packet there was a student survival guide shopping list for under $55 a week. I will look at it and make revisions as needed. There were also some cheap recipes that make several servings which can be frozen for lunch or for later. They are all easy recipes that consist of cheap items. So I will probably get some of that stuff at the end of this week. Classes begin Monday but I don’t have a class until Wednesday. Because we have lectures and tutorials, Week one is easy with just the Lectures for each class. Week Two begins the Tutorials. I am taking Marketing, International Politics, Politics and Security in East Asia, and International Law and Human Rights. My schedule for week two and on is Monday 10-11, Wednesday 4-7, Thursday 10-12 & 2-5, and Friday 12-2 & 2-3. USC suggests that students devote 7 hours outside of class to each course. I may not need to spend that much time but I will try to stay a step ahead so I can avoid stressful situations. I went to look at my books in the bookshop – I was looking to spend nearly $200 on three books – not fun. So I went to the library and found all three books that I need and checked them out. Two of my courses do not require textbooks but will most likely include online readings. The library charges students to print – 10 cents per page. That’s kind of dumb – especially when most of the things we need to print are required for our classes. I am still praying for a job. I don’t want to work nights; maybe during the day on Saturdays or Tuesdays – when I don’t have class. From what I hear the going rate is about $10-$13 an hour – which would be marvelous and mean that I wouldn’t need to work very often. I am going to ask Lucy Kerr – the girl from the church – to come with me to the bank near campus to help me set up an account. I am also going to look into a phone plan. I don’t think it is necessary but for emergencies it would be good. I carry around my cellphone for time but could probably dial 000 if I needed to. But in Jesus’ name there will not be any emergencies!
I am going to start on Week 2’s homework for the class that has the syllabus posted online – marketing – and then watch Princess Bride and then go to bed.

Update Two

I miss everyone loads. Distance makes time seem more severe. It is cold here at night and I want another blanket. I wear leggings and fleece pants, long socks, a long sleeve shirt and a hoodie to bed and it takes awhile for my body heat to fill the covers. The day weather is perfect! Boliva's twin. It was so nice today. Like high 60s, low 70s. Beautiful. And the sky seems bigger here. The clouds have been amazing! I've been taking pictures.
Having 2 dollar coins is weird because I treat it like change. The left side of the road is freaking me out and the roundabouts are not an equal trade for not having stop lights. There are very few stoplights here. But a roundabout every mile or two.
I took it easy this morning. Got up around 830. I made breakfast – oatmeal – and some chai tea in my new coffee cup. I ate outside on our balcony in the sun. Then I cleaned up my room and finished some paper work for the apartments – a thing I had to fill out about the state of my room. I had to comment on where marks were on walls and carpets and how the bathroom was. This is to ensure that when your stay is over your room is in the same condition so your bond can be refunded. So I was super anal about it and commented on absolutely everything so they couldn’t blame me for anything. I also commented on how dirty my room was when I got there and I asked for half of my bond to be refunded because my room was not in acceptable condition. We’ll see how that goes. Pray for favor. I did it respectfully but said, my room was not in good condition and I don’t think it is right for me to pay a bond to ensure I keep my room in good condition when I didn’t receive it in good condition. Hopefully they will agree and give me some money back.
I went for a walk on campus to see where all the buildings are so I will be more familiar with the campus for orientation which begins Monday. I’ve decided to take everyone’s advice and not worry.  I am here for school and will accomplish that. I will keep the main thing the main thing. I will find a job and be perfectly at peace at all times in Jesus’ name! The campus is so nice. All the buildings are really modern architecturally. It’s funny how similar Australia is with South America as far as climate and geography. It reminds me so much of Bolivia. I saw like five or six kangaroos just hanging out on campus. They were basically right in front of me just wandering around. Like squirrels but big and more dangerous and cooler. Ha! I also swung by the bookstore on campus and the book list for classes was listed. I only need 3 books! Two of my classes do not require textbooks. There will probably be online readings – said my roommate Ashlie. Then when I got back to my room and got online to check out my class schedule Ashlie got home and invited me to go with her and some friends to the beach. So I went with her and her three friends – Liselle, Jess, and Jen. We just laid in the sun. I read my book and the girls talked. I don’t plan on spending much time with people during this trip. I want to focus on school and have a job – which won’t leave much time for other things.