Get More Like Jesus While Watching TV by Nck Pollard & Steve Couch (A Review)

From goodreads:

Rather than condemn TV as a bad influence or dismiss it as harmless, Get More Like Jesus while Watching TV argues that the way we watch TV matters as much as what we watch. Using illustrations from current and recent television programs, the Damaris team members demonstrate how our TV viewing can actually help us to become more like Jesus and more effective at telling others about him. Using a framework from Romans 12, this book consists of eight chapters which use popular programs to encourage the reader to deepen their relationships with God. There are also four study guides based on programs such as The Office and Friends

My review:

Whilst I didn't agree with everything in this book, I did find it thought-provoking. Sometimes obvious and other times inspired, this book's outlook is challenging and yet it is still easy to read. The TV references ocassionally seemed to be plucked from the air, but this didn't stop the point of the message getting across. Worth reading if you are a Christian who loves TV, not least for the bible studies in the back.

Visit Action Readers
Action point: Consider the morals set by your favourite programmes- how can you make sure that the right ones affect your life?

Inside Prince Caspian by Devin Brown (A Review)

An insightful and though-provoking exploration of the world within C.S. Lewis' Prince Caspian. Devin Brown uses comparisons with other works by the same author, as well as considering those he would have been familiar with to good effect. However, this also makes the book much better for those already versed with Lewis' books than those who are new to them. I would recommend this to anyone loves the world of Narnia (preferably straight after reading the story which it is about).

In Pursuit of the Miraculous by Roy Todd (A Review)

An easy-to-read, but challenging book containing many personal experiences of miracles happening today, as well as biblical reasons why Christians should believe in them. I found this book really interesting and thought-provoking. I would recommend it to any Christian, whether they usually enjoy reading or not.

The Stopping of Summer Special

Well, the end is here. Thankyou to all who helped out, commented and visited during my month of summer madness. I hope you picked up some tips of things to do, places to see, recipes to try, authors to read and/or blogs to visit. I'd love to hear what you thought- maybe you could leave a comment or make a blog post to tell me. Hopefully this will be the beginning of more events that I'm able to hold.

Just before I leave you to go back to normal broadcasting, I bet you want to know who won what. Well, here you are:

The Winner of Bloody Jack is Mystica
The signed bookmarks were won by Sahina Bibi
The personalised magnetic bookmarks were won by Jade Walker and Janhvi Jagtap
The Winner of the Hairdresser of Harare is Mazz Nixon
And, finally, Anne was the winner of Murder in the Dark.

Congratulations to all the winners. You have been contacted by e-mail and now have 48 hours to respond.

If you didn't win this time, don't despair- you can still win with my 100 followers giveaway (see the sidebar of 'The Story Factory Reading Zone' for more details.

Caught in The Winds by L.D. Wenzel (A Review)

From the blurb:

Try though he might, Morrie Schiller just doesn't fit into the Christian college scene. The girl he loves sees him as only a 'brother', and he's in the crossfire as conservatives rage against the school with extremist religious views. Add to the mix, he's rankled by unasked for longings to become a Roman Catholic. He feels alone, 'caught', as postmodern winds toss him about like an autumn leaf.

Enter Jack Joplin, a mysterious stranger, who lures him into embracing a spurious philosophy, promising to 'transcend' religious conventionality. Morrie is catapulted into Faust-like adventures that go beyond his wildest dreams.

Time was when Morrie only wanted to meet a nice Christian girl and settle down as an ordinary evangelical. However the Socratic dictum: 'Know Thyself' seems to be his sacred calling. Spiritual maturity comes only by passing through the refiner's fire.

My review:

A tale of three parts full of philosophical and moral ideas to challenge the Christian mind. I really enjoyed the discourse that this book took about a wide-range of issues. Although sometimes reading like a university text-book, it was worth perceivering with for the pure inventiveness and originality.

I think that this story could possibly have been told over three individual books, since the sections were so different in style. In places the descriptions were unecessary to the plot, in others I would have liked to know more of the character's feelings. Having said that, I did truly feel for the main character.

I'm glad that I got a chance to read this book annd am hoping to get a chance to read the sequel sometime in the future.


Book source: This book was sent to me by the author in return for an honest review

Suggested Activity 14: Visit your local farm shop

Today's suggestion: Visit your local farm shop

Why not support your local economy, whilst knowing exactly where your food comes from, by visiting your local farm shop. There are a whole variety of different types of farm shop serving, amongst other things, : bread, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables, cakes, jams, plants. Some have cafes or pick-your-own attached to them. Others have nearby garden centres or children's activities. Why not check out what's near to you, do your shopping and maybe make a whole day of it.

Over to you

Do you have a farm shop near you?

I'd love you to tell us about it, maybe other readers would be interested as well.

If you fancy knowing how I make beetroot cake, then pop over to 'Living In A Time Warp' where I'll be sharing my recipe this afternoon.

 

Suggested Activity 9: Get together with friends

Get together with some friends

'The Story Factory Reading Zone' readers say:

I also love having friends over to play Wii or board games into the wee hours of the morning. Most of my friends don't live here, so when they're home during the holidays it's fun to meet up and do something together.

This is a great one for those in the uni years, or for those whose friends might travel away for schooling. But it can also be good for other people as well. Think about it- kids are on holiday, the schools are closed, people may be taking vacation time, the sun is out and its a great time to catch up with mates. All you have to decide is how to do it! But the most important thing is, whether you have a picnic, a BBQ, play Wii, board games or simply drink coffee- have fun!

 Over to you:

What sort of things do you enjoy doing with you friends?

For the next 'Suggested Activity' pop over to 'The Story Factory Writing Zone' tomorrow.

Places to Visit 1: New South Wales

New South Wales

'The Story Factory Reading Zone' readers recommend:

"Brunswick Heads, Ballina, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Mullumbimby, Tweed Heads... these are all around the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. A very beautiful part of Australia."

Over to you: Have you ever been to New South Wales? We'd love to hear about it!

Tomorrow's 'Summer Special' post can be found on 'The Story Factory Writing Zone'

Suggested Activity 4: Take a road-trip

Take a road-trip

'The Story Factory Reading Zone' readers say:

I love going on short road trips on sunny days (especially with my Mum!). Maybe drive to the nearest city and go shopping or eat at a nice restaurant, or just drive someplace we haven't been before and enjoy the ride.

I totally agree with this one. I love going out driving and experiencing the joy of the open road. I particularly like going into the countriside with the windows wide open. Of course, having air conditioning or a sunroof is good to stop it getting too hot in the warm weather.

Over to you:

Where do you like to take a road trip to?

Tell us about it in the comments, or share some pictures and your blog and leave a link.  

Pop back this afternoon for the first 'places to visit' 

(this one's particularly for those in the southern hemisphere ;) )

 

Recipe Resort: Peach Sorbet

Welcome to the 'Recipe Resort'- the 'Summer Special' feature where I'll be sharing some of the recipes that I enjoy using during the summer months.

Today, I'll be sharing with you how to make a simple peach sorbet.
The inspiration for this sorbet was the fact that we had several left over peaches that were too far gone to eat but which I didn't want to waste. It was a boiling hot day, so I was looking for a way to make something cool from them. Plus, I had a craving for ice-cream or sorbet. Since my Mum's lactose intolerant I plumped for the sorbet. After searching around the internet I found a simple recipe that could be adapted for the purpose.
The result was a peach sorbet that, whilst not as soft and creamy as shop bought, was certainly melt in the mouth. I see no reason why this couldn't be adapted to use other fruit if necessary.


The recipe

You will need:

• 100g granulated sugar
• 200ml water
• 4 large ripe peaches
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

1. Put the sugar and water in a pan.Warm on the hob until th sugar dissolves then bring to the boil. Boil for one minute.
2. Take the resulting syrup off the heat and leave it to cool for 30 minutes. Then place in the fridge to cool for a further hour and a half.
3. Cut peaches into slices and take out the stones (I like to leave the skins on, but you can peel them if you wish)
4. Put peach slices into food processer and blend for about a minute.
5. Add syrup and lemon juice before blending until the mixture is make up of fine pieces in a creamy mix. 
6. Place in the freezer for at leas 3 hours before serving.

Over to you:

Try and then let us know what you thought of this recipe.

Tomorrow, you can read another 'Activity Suggestion' back on this blog, as well as the first 'Place to Visit' of this 'Summer Special'

 

The Week Ahead: Week One

Welcome to the first of 4 'Week Ahead' posts during my August 'Summer Special'. The aim of these posts is to keep you updated with what will happening each week, including any changes from the published schedule. They may also include my response to the 'It's Monday: What Are You Reading?' meme (I don't do this every week, just when I have new reading to announce).

WEEK ONE- Welcome To The Summer!
This week is all about getting the feel for what the 'Summer Special' is about. As well as the launch post, I'll be taking you round all my blogs as I share with you some suggested activities for the summer, one of my favourite recipes and a place to visit. The week ends with the first 'Summer Sharer' and blog feature.
Click on the blog titles to be taken to their main pages.

Day One-     Launch Post (all blogs)
                    The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                    Suggested Activity 1 (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Two-    Suggested Activity 2 (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Three-  Suggested Activity 3 (Crafty Creations)
                    Recipe Resort: Peach Sorbet (Blog For The Thought)
Day Four-    Places To Visit 1 (Blog For The Thought)
                    Suggested Activity 4 (Blog For The Thought)
Day Five-     Suggested Activity 5 (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Six-       Suggested Activity 6 (Crafty Creations)
                    Summer Sharer: Wanderer's Tales (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Seven-  Blog Feature: My Book-Crazy Life (The Story Factory Reading Zone)

Over to you: What does summer mean to you?

Summer Special Starts!

Apologies for the late start to this 'Summer Special'.
Who knew it would take me over an hour to write this post!?

Welcome to the first ever 'Summer Special' taking place across various blogs run by Abigail Ann (aka neeuqfonafamai).

So, what is 'Summer Special'?
Basically, its a change to our regular schedule where you can hang out during your summer holidays. Or, if they're already over, then you can use the opportunity to imagine them back again and begin planning for next year. Every day in August, I'll be leaving you some ideas of  things that are good to do in hot weather. They'll also be giveaways, blog features, author interview(s), recipes for you to try, and a chance for you to join in during our 'summer sharers'. That's in addition to all my usual book reviews and memes. And, at the end of each post, will be an 'over to you'- something to spark discussion in the comments, or to post about on your own blog (if you want to).
Let me now tell you some more about the types of posts you may come across during this month:

• The Week Ahead. At the start of each week in August, I'll be putting up a post saying what's happening that week. This will be an updated post and will include the 'It's Monday: What Are You Reading?' meme. 
• Suggested Activity. These are posts talking about activities that myself or my blog readers like to do. They contain ideas of things that could be good to do in warm weather. 
• Places to Visit. These are brief posts telling you about various places that could be good to go and visit. These are specific places that you might want to see if you live nearby, or to go to on holiday in the future.
• Blog Feature. Telling you all about some of the blogs that our readers run. 
• Giveaway. Your chance to grab a prize. Thanks to the generousity of our readers most of these are international! Plus, I'll be adding a surprise giveaway if the followers of 'The Story Factory Reading Zone' hit 100 followers during this event!
• Author Interview. Your chance to find out more about an author that may be new to you. 
• Blogger Interview. Your chance to learn more about a fellow blogger.
• Summer Sharer. Essentially a series of one-off memes, these posts are your opportunity to join in by sharing your photos, summer exploits, or writing. Let us know what you're up to this summer on your own blog, or via the comments.
• Recipe Resort. I'll be sharing some recipes that I've found to be good for the summer.

Enough of the posts, where do I find them?
They'll be spread across my blogs. But don't worry, they won't be hard to find as each day I'll leave a note for you of where you can find the next post. Plus, there's a list below of what will be happening when and where, which I'll leave (and update as necessary) on the new 'Summer Special' page of each of my blogs.
Just to make sure you don't miss anything, here's a list of the blogs participating:

• The Story Factory Reading Zone 
• Music Helps The World Go Round
• Living in A Time Warp
• Crafy Creations
• Blog For The Thought
• The Story Factory Writing Zone

The Schedule
These are the posts that I've already got planned for the 'Summer Special' event. Also, look out for all my usual posts, as well as the possible additional giveaway or interview.

WEEK ONE- Welcome To The Summer!
Day One-     Launch Post (all blogs)
                    The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                    Suggested Activity 1 (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Two-    Suggested Activity 2 (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Three-  Suggested Activity 3 (Craft Creations)
                    Recipe Resort: Peach Sorbet (Blog For The Thought)
Day Four-    Places To Visit 1 (Blog For The Thought)
                    Suggested Activity 4 (Blog For The Thought)
Day Five-     Suggested Activity 5 (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Six-       Suggested Activity 6 (Craft Creations)
                    Summer Sharer: Wanderer's Tales (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Seven-  Blog Feature: My Book-Crazy Life (The Story Factory Reading Zone)

WEEK TWO- Giveaways Galore!
Day Eight-   The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                    Suggested Activity 7 (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
                    Summer Sharer: Recipe Resort (Cradt Creation)
Day Nine-    Suggested Activity 8 (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Ten-      Places To Visit 2 (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Eleven-  Suggested Activity 9 (Blog For The Thought)
Day Twelve- Suggested Activity 10 (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
                     Giveaway 1: Bloody Jack (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
                     Blog Feature: Ann's Reading Corner (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
Day Thirteen-Suggested Activity 11 (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
                     Giveaway 2: Assorted Signed Bookmarks (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Fourteen-Giveaway 3: The Hairdresser of Harare (The Story Factory Reading Zone)

WEEK THREE- Sharing the Summer
Day Fifteen-  The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                     Suggested Activity 12 (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Sixteen- Places To Visit 3 (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Seventeen- Suggested Activity 13 (Crafty Creations)
                     Summer Sharer: Crafty Capers (Crafty Creations)
Day Eighteen-Suggested Activity 14 (Blog For The Thought)
                      Recipe Resort: Beetroot Cake (Living In A Time Warp)
Day Nineteen-Suggested Activity 15 (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
Day Twenty-  Suggested Activity 16 (Living In A Time Warp)
                      Summer Sharer: Holiday Snaps (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Twenty-One- Giveaway 6: Magnetic Bookmarks (Crafty Creations)

WEEK FOUR- Writing and Reading the World
Day Twenty-Two-   The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                               Places To Visit 4 (Living In A Time Warp)
Day Twenty-Three- Suggested Activity 17 (Crafty Creations)
Day Twenty-Four-   Suggested Activity 18 (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
                               Summer Sharer: A World of Writing (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Twenty-Five-   Author Interview: Karen Tyrrell (The Story Factory Writing Zone)
Day Twenty-Six-     Places To Visit 5 (Living in A Time Warp)
                               Recipe Resort: Bread-maker's Bread (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Twenty-Seven- Suggested Activity 19 (Music Helps The World Go Round)
Day Twenty-Eight-  Blogger Interview: Hilde (The Story Factory Reading Zone)

WEEK FIVE- Reaching the End
Day Twenty-Nine-  The Week Ahead (all blogs)
                               Giveaway 7: Murder in the Dark (The Story Factory Reading Zone)
Day Thirty-              Places To Visit 6 (Living in A Time Warp)
Day Thirty-One-      Wrapping Up The Summer (all blogs)

I hope you'll be able to join us for some summer fun this month!

If you want to be certain not to miss anything, please consider following one (or all) of the blogs

Over to you: What are your plans for August?

Countdown To Summer Special

LESS THAN A WEEK TO GO until our 'Summer Special' event!

Spead across 6 blogs that I run throughout August, 'Summer Special' will be full of suggestions on how to make your summer just that little bit more fun.

Look out for:

• suggested activities
• book, arts & crafts and other giveaways
• featured blogs
• blogger interviews
• author interviews
• book reviews

and more.......

It's not too late to get involved as well! Simply fill in the form below before next Monday to get your activity suggestions or blog featured, be interviewed, or donate a giveaway item.

Street Pastors

Last night was the official launch of Street Pastors in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Two teams went on patrol for teh first time, before the regular groups start in September. The idea of Street Pastors is basically to provide support for those who need it on a Friday or Saturday evening. This might mean just being a listening ear, or providing practical support such as flipflops for those wearing impractical high heels, or arranging for a cab to get someone home. Street Pastors was starting in Abingdon after a request by the local police following successful schemes in other local towns, as well as across the country and now worldwide.

More info about Abingdon Street Pastors:

• Abingdon Blog

More information about the Street Pastors scheme:

• Official website

Are there any Street Pastors in your town? 

Jabez by Thom Lemmons (A Review)

A short and simple novel, its amazing how much could be made from a short reference to a character within the bible. I really liked the way this story was told, it sort of felt as if someone was sitting infront of me speaking the story. There's nothing particularly amazing about this book, but its simplicity is what makes it nice. Worth a go if you want a relaxing Christian read.

Also posted on The Story Factory Reading Zone

If anyone has any theological questions relating to this book (or any other questions) which they think we could use for Thursday Thought please let me know.

Safely Home by Randy Alcorn (A Review)

This fiction read almost like a real-life account. Its descriptions of the life of house-group Christians in China were moving, fascinating and sometimes traumatic. It was interesting to read about how the registered churches work. The story moves back and forth between China and America- a technique which really helps the reader to focus on what it means to be a Christian and a believer in Jesus. I felt the sections in heaven were unneccesary and cringed at the way Buddhism was portrayed, but overall this was a very good book. I felt that it really helped to renew my faith!

Also posted on 'The Story Factory Reading Zone'


If anyone has read this book and would like to discuss any issues brought up with it then please post here to let me know.

How Do you Make Your Summer Special?

I'm hoping to run a series of posts on things to do this summer. But, in order to make this a success I need your help? I want to know if you have any activities, places you enjoy, or things that you do in the summer months. Maybe you attend a festival, or there are special activities going on at your church.  Whatever it is, I'd love to hear from you.

Thursday Thought #5

Isn't it great when you reach the end of the book and find that there are discussion questions, so that you can make the book last even longer! And then, just when you've started pondering them, you realise that this is something you want to discuss further............... but the right person just isn't there (or maybe they're just too busy). Well, then this is the place for you!

Every Thursday I'll be posting a discussion question, challenge or thought from one of the Christian books that I've read. Then I'll post my personal response.
Then its your turn: consider the question and, if you feel moved to do so, post a comment or a link to the answer in your own blog. You don't have to participate every week, just when you want to.

Today's question comes from 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen.

Ar we willing to do anything, even lay down our lives, if necessary, to advance the kingdom of God? 

My response:

Before we can answer this question, it is important to establish that not everything would advance the kingdom of God. A kingdom based on love could not be advanced, for instance through violent actions; nor could a kingdom based on choicce be advanced through forcing people to 'believe'. 

I wish I could truly answer 'yes' (within the context on the paragraph above) to this question, but I honestly doubt if I would have the strength to do so at this moment in time. I do have faith, however, that God would never ask us to do anything that we could not do (with his help), so I hope that it I was ever in a situation where God needed me to do this then I would be able to carry it through. 

Thursday Thought #4

Isn't it great when you reach the end of the book and find that there are discussion questions, so that you can make the book last even longer! And then, just when you've started pondering them, you realise that this is something you want to discuss further............... but the right person just isn't there (or maybe they're just too busy). Well, then this is the place for you!

Every Thursday I'll be posting a discussion question, challenge or thought from one of the Christian books that I've read. Then I'll post my personal response.
Then its your turn: consider the question and, if you feel moved to do so, post a comment or a link to the answer in your own blog. You don't have to participate every week, just when you want to.

Today's question comes from 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen.

Are we really convinced that we are engaged in a spiritual war? If so, shouldn't we commit to a life of prayer?

My response:  

If I'm honest, I am extremly uncomfortable with the phrase 'spiritual war'. It conjures up to me (and I suspect to most people) thoughts of suicide bombers, casting out devils and physicaly attacking anyone who doesn't think the same way as you. And yet, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, a sign that his message was not a violent one.

So if we don't mean a violent war, what sort of 'spiritual war' can we mean? Brother Andrew quote Ephesians 612:

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

So by a 'spiritual war' what is meant is a war against evil. This can, of course, be done peacefully. We must strive to get rid of the evil in our lives and in our world. Protests, petitions and reading the bible are of course very useful in this, but so is prayer.

Prayer should be part of our daily lives. It worries me sometimes that what should be purely a way of talking to God is often taught to children in such a formalic way. During school prayer times (and often in Sunday School as well) children are taught that they must put their hands together and close their eyes before the pray. Yes, this is wonderful for helping them to concentrate and be still to hear God's word, but what about those times when we need to pray but don't have the silence? If everything in our life is dedicated to God through prayer, as I believe it should be, then in a secular society we must be able to pray admist the bustle as well as in the peace. I'm not saying that quiet prayer doesn't have its value, but the best way to do it (in my opinion) is complimented by other types of prayer during the day. This is, surely, committig to a life of prayer.

Thursday Thought #3

Isn't it great when you reach the end of the book and find that there are discussion questions, so that you can make the book last even longer! And then, just when you've started pondering them, you realise that this is something you want to discuss further............... but the right person just isn't there (or maybe they're just too busy). Well, then this is the place for you!

Every Thursday I'll be posting a discussion question, challenge or thought from one of the Christian books that I've read. Then I'll post my personal response.
Then its your turn: consider the question and, if you feel moved to do so, post a comment or a link to the answer in your own blog. You don't have to participate every week, just when you want to.

Today's question comes from 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen.

What would happen if we accepted the challenge of Islam by striving as Christians to imitate Christ?

 

My thoughts:

The truth is that it is really hard to do this! And yet, as Christians, we are called to be like Christ. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has great trouble with this. Most 'modern' societies are just not christ like! They are obsessed with the acquisition of money, fame and earthly achievement. Every job interview expects you to say how wonderful you are and what you've achieved to rise up the ranks, increase the monetary value of your company, or get your work place loads of awards. A prosperous household is one with all the mod-cons, where every room (including the kitchen andd bathroom) has TVs and where people show-off their wealth to others. We are expected to put ourselves before others and told that we ar push-oversif we don't!

Against this background it is hard to remember that God calls us to be humble, value him and our faith over earthly posessions, and love our neighbours as ourselves. There are simple steps that many Christians take towards such as caring for the planet, giving to charity, smiling at strangers or volunteering to help others. But, there are many non-Christians who do these things to! In fact these are valued shared by not only most religious groups, but many atheists as well.

Imitating Christ is more than this! Imitating Christ means putting others before ourselves, not letting the world get in the way of our beliefs and being willing to give up everything for God. If all Christians lived like this then it would most certainly have an impact on others! It would be so different from society that people would stop and stare! And no doubt people would want to know why we are doing it and what makes our faith so strong that it can bear it. I imagine that it would be hard to spread the message of Christianity because of all the questions that would be asked.

Thursday Thought #2

Isn't it great when you reach the end of the book and find that there are discussion questions, so that you can make the book last even longer! And then, just when you've started pondering them, you realise that this is something you want to discuss further............... but the right person just isn't there (or maybe they're just too busy). Well, then this is the place for you!

Every Thursday I'll be posting a discussion question, challenge or thought from one of the Christian books that I've read. Then I'll post my personal response.
Then its your turn: consider the question and, if you feel moved to do so, post a comment or a link to the answer in your own blog. You don't have to participate every week, just when you want to.

Today's question comes from 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen.

Are we going to seek revenge when we're attacked? 

Should we not offer forgiveness instead?

My response

My automatic reaction is to say: 'yes, of course'. From an early age we are taught not to hit back, that two wrongs don't make a right and to accept an apology when it is offered. But is it really that easy? Of course it isn't! How many of us, when offered an apology, automatically say 'it's OK, I forgive you' or 'apology accepted' when inside we still bear a grudge? I suspect, if we're honest, most of us do.

I like to think that when someone wrongs me I do not try to take revenge. However the want to is usually still there. Its human nature to want to strike back- that's what made it important for Jesus to say that we shouldn't! Our society today is based upon revenge. When people are sent to prison we say that its to keep others safe or so deter others from committing similar crimes, but it seems to me that sentences are not merely based on this- otherwise the length of prison term would depend less on the crime committed and more on whether the prisoner was likely to repeat offend (yes, I do realise that people get prison terms shortened for good behaviour and likelihood not to re-offend, but this seems to be more of a secondary concern). No, the truth is that the general public want to see criminals 'getting what they deserve', i.e. being punished for their crimes. It is much easier to seek revenge than too forgive!

So how can we resist revenge and instead forgive? I wish I'd found the answer, but I haven't yet. All I can do is to recognise the feeling inside me and ask God to take it away and replace it with forgiveness. And hope that maybe, someday, this will become a habit in itself. 

Thursday Thought

Isn't it great when you reach the end of the book and find that there are discussion questions, so that you can make the book last even longer! And then, just when you've started pondering them, you realise that this is something you want to discuss further............... but the right person just isn't there (or maybe they're just too busy). Well, then this is the place for you!

Every Thursday I'll be posting a discussion question, challenge or thought from one of the Christian books that I've read. Then I'll post my personal response.
Then its your turn: consider the question and, if you feel moved to do so, post a comment or a link to the answer in your own blog. You don't have to participate every week, just when you want to.

Today's question comes from 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen.

Do we view Muslims as enemies? Or are we seeking to win them to Christ?

My response:

I'd like to begin by pointing out that Brother Andrew says in his book that by 'seeking to win them to Christ' he does not mean forcing anyone to become a Christian. In-fact he urges his readers to realise that the choice to become a Christian should be just that, a choice through free will. 

Reading this book I realised how few Muslims I actually know. Most of the people I come into contact with on a daily basis are Christians and in my community the only other faith-group that I've really have conversations with has been a small group of Hindus. This makes it very difficult for me to say with all certainty how I would feel about meeting Muslims in my community. 

Having said this, I did once become friends with a Muslim who sat next to me in RE classes at school. We used to have really good discussions about our faith and I believe that we both learnt a lot from each other. She was never anything more than a good friend to me and I never really considered her faith an issue. Then, one day, she suddenly said that she couldn't talk to me about faith any more. She began to refuse to sign any petitions I brought into school associated with charities run by Christians. Slowly our friendship began to fall apart.

What does this have to do with the question posed, you may ask. Well, I believe that she (or at least her parents) had begun to see me as the enemy. They thought that I was seeking to win her to Christ. Actually, I was just wanting to have a chat with my friend and, since we happened to be sitting in an RE lesson, my faith seemed a suitable topic. My belief truly is that most people with true faith do not need to seek to bring others to faith, they just simply show and speak their faith automatically. And, if we do not see others as enemies, then we will do this too.

I have to admit that I often find it hard to speak to others about my faith nowadays, especially when I know that they may not feel the same way. That's why most of my faith discussions are through the internet (and then in the form of blogs where I don't have to make an immediate response). I believe this is because I am worried about others seeing me as the enemy. I pray for the faith to truly believe that, if I can consider all as friends who deserve to hear what I truly believe to be the truth.

Below the Line- Happening this week!

Happy Birthday Amnesty

Today, Amnesty International celebrates fifty years of standing up for human rights. We celebrate the thousands of political prisoners released. The lives spared as more countries have abolished the death penalty. The murderers and torturers brought to justice because of the International Criminal Court for which we campaigned. The letters written, petitions signed and people brought together across the world as one man’s idea grew into a global movement of three million people.

From Amnesty International website 

I strongly feel that this is an important charity that we, as Christians, should support. Jesus called us to 'love our neighbours' and what better sign of that love can there be than helping to make sure that their human rights are respected? I urge you, if you have not done so already, to find out more about the work of Amnesty International and join them in their campaigns, even if its only as little as sending a postcard once a year. 

I'm currently reading the book 'Secret Believers' by Brother Andrew and Al Janessen. This contains tales of abuse of human rights and a campaign to make sure that Christians are given a fair trial and are not abused whilst being held in custody. Please remember those who are persecuted for their faith around the world.

Phantastes by George MacDonald (A Book Review)

A tale that can be taken on many levels- from a simple fairytale to a thelogical expose. Despite the slightly archaic language, I was enchanted with this book. In fact, I liked it so much that its going to go on my bookshelf for a while so that I can explore it again in more depth another time.

The World is Not For Sale (A Review)

This book review has also been posted on 'The Story Factory Reading Zone'. It is posted here for information to those interested in such issues.

Written in the style of persuasive interviews, this book contains a wealth of information about the arguments against GM crops and intensive farming. The bias of this account is clear (we only really hear one side of the debate), however I believe that I still learnt a lot from it. It is well-written annd engaging, despite being translated from the French. An explanation of the principles of sustainable farming in the appendices act as a useful companion to the text. Worth a read if you're interested in such issues.

Messy Church: Big and Small

Every two months, on a Saturday morning, my church is host to a 'Messy Church'. Children and parents from the local community visit to experience crafts, games, cookery, music, and prayers related to a bible story- as well as hearing the bible story itself in an interactive way. After all this we eat a meal together. They seem to really enjoy it and we now have several families without church backgrounds who regularly come. I'm really pleased to be able to be a part of it all!

This time our theme was 'big and small', based around the story on David & Goliath. Activities included blowing big and small bubbles, using cotton buds to make 'stipple' pictures, stepping through a postcard, a treasure hunt for small things, giant jenga and mosaic making. I also left a bookcrossing book related to the topic which I'm hoping whoever found it will enjoy. After the 'service' there were hot dogs and triffle to enjoy.

If you live near Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England and have children in primary or secondary school do consider coming to our next meeting on Saturday 9th July at All Saints Church.

Is there a Messy Church near you? Is it the same as ours or are there differences? When (and where) is your next meeting?

Christian Resources Exhibition- Part Two

I was unable to see everything on my first visit, so I decided to make a return visit on the Thursday.

Again, there were a range of good seminars on. I decided to go to two:

1. A session about how to construct worship using a range of different styles. We were taught how to create the correct mood using pictures, different focuses and musical devices such as adding a constant chord to the keyboard part. They also shared some different inclusion techniques such as getting the congregation to write their prayers on a clipboard that was passed round during the service.
2. The other session I went to was about how to include boys in exploring their spirituality within the church family. The speaker talked about how boys can be reluctant to appear intelligent, good looking or kind because of a fear of being called names, and yet this is what we expect them to aim for. It is important to let them take risks and join in with rough and tumble, whilst remembering that not all boys are the same. 

I came back with a few more freebies including a pencil, yet another pen and one more book.

What style of worship is used in your church? How do you try to include boys in the church community?

Christian Resources Exhibition- Part One

On Tuesday I visited the Christian Resources Exhibition. I was amazed by how large it was and how many things there were to see and buy.

I went to two seminar sessions- one on AV and another on Christian counselling.
The AV session was very useful. I learnt how different speakers and microphones affect sound, something which I was able to put into practise whilst singing this Sunday in church.
The session on Christian counselling was interesting. but didn't quite fit with my theological viewpoint. It did make me think, however.

It was surprising how many of the stalls were giving away freebies. Whilst some of them were just thrust my way and I had no idea what I was getting, quite a few of them were actually very useful. By the end of the day I had collected approximately 1 pen, a CD, 3 DVDs, 5 magazines and 2 books for free.

I've mentioned already how many things there were to buy. I ended up buying:

Books (you can read the details of these here)
Once Blind by Kay Marshall Strom
Q by Paul Nigro
Winterflight by Joseph Bayly
Crusade of Tears by C.D. Baker
No flowers.... just lots of joy by Fiona Castle with Jan Greenough
Behind the Sofa by Anthony Thacker

Children/Youth Resources
The Limerick Bible by Peter Wallis
5x Legends of Faith magazines
Top Tips on Reaching unchurched children by Helen Franklin
Top Tips on Prompting prayer by Sarah Bingham and Vicki Blyth
Ultimate Creative Prayer by Judith Merrel

At the end of the day, worn out for buying and then carrying around my purchases, I went to see a brilliant comedy sketch. It told the story of Exodus in one hour, complete with magic tricks, audience participation, funny songs and musical asides. It was hilarious and I'm very glad that I went.

Have you been to CRE? If so, do share your experiences.

Welcome

Welcome to my brand new blog- set aside for the thoughts and journeys I make during my Christian faith. Some of you may already have seen some of my faith-related posts on 'The Story Factory Reading Zone', along with some of the reviews of Christian books that I've read. Well, basically, I've decided that its about time that I gave these things I dedicated space of their own. I also hope to be able to add posts about some of the Christian events that I attend. Alongside this will be posts about some of the things that are inspired by my faith, such as environmental issues and information about some of the other causes that  support. I hope that you will join me in this journey.