Curly Hair

So... Over the last few weeks my hair's been nice to me. Which means that I've been able to wear it loose. And I'm actually starting to enjoy the curls that have somehow come from somewhere over the last little sometime. To think that my hair used to be dead straight. Anyways, here's some photos of me, all grown up, taken this afternoon. I was a bit bored, and decided that I might as well use the opportunity of a good hair day. Photo credit to Arlene :)

Kids are Awesome

Kids are awesome. Did you know that?

They do what you say at the drop of the hat.

Most of the time (I should watch what I say),

You never know when trouble's heading your way!

But that makes it fun, you never know what

Is happening next, it's made up on the spot.

Play a game, jump around, or sing a song

Open a book, talk 'bout anything, all day long.

Take a drink break, or sleep on the floor,

Catch all the flies, or escape out the door.

Tell favourite jokes, or stories, or rhymes,

That's what we do at the best of class times.

Get a snack, cry bout a bruise or a scratch,

Go to the toilet, have a loud soccer match.

Plant a seed, trap a mouse, shred all the paper,

Make noises in armpits, or cause quite a caper.

Dance in the rain, play follow-the-leader,

Simon Says, Scarecrow, 'Time Wolfie fed her'. 

Mow the grass with our fingers and toes,

Vacuum the carpet with, well, who knows?

Squawk like a parrot, bark like a dog,

Stamp like an elephant, or roll like a hog.

Use pens as rockets, or paper as planes,

Watch the class goldfish swim down the drain.

Go out to the oval, the library, the gym

Tiptoe past the office, don't disturb him...

Or it's back to classroom with a big shout-

Never like to admit that we got caught out!

Well, actually, that's what we think we can do

But really there's always school work to get through.

Textbooks go flying, pens write till they're dry,

Heads and hands down, mouths closed shut, eyebrows high.

Okay, so my work isn't always this way,

In fact, not very close, it's always a day,

Full of very hard work, adding and taking,

Cleaning up all the mess we are making.

Doing our geography, history, and grammar,

Science, maths, music, all with some drama.

It's never boring, together it's fun,

Even with laughter, work always gets done.

I'm a teacher, I can say stuff like this;

My students are lovely, even call me Miss.

On the odd occasion, I'm even a Mrs...

I'll take lots of hugs, just please no more kisses.

I'll do my great job with pride and with fashion,

Cause it's my joy, my hobby, my passion.

Kids are awesome! I thank God for His plan,

For me, as I teach (sorry, this line just won't rhyme)

His covenant children, day in and day out,

And pray that my love for them never runs out.

As I care for and educate those placed in my care,

May my faith in Him be the treasure I share. 

Inspired.

On Monday we could listen to Rev Wildeboer's presentation on the mission work done in PNG. I was touched by his presentation, so much so that I shed a few small tears. We are incredibly privileged to live in a country like Australia, and to compare our lifestyle to what some people go through in PNG is incredibly eye-opening and humbling. Mission needs a lot of support, both prayerfully and financially, and I have been inspired, not only by Rev W's eloquence, but also by what God has given me, to set aside prayer time and money for this important work. 

Monday was also my birthday, a day of celebration and reflection. It is with thankfulness to God that I could celebrate 21 years of healthy, exuberant life. To be able to spend a day like this in my dream job, with my favourite (minus a few) people, and to celebrate it with them is truly special. I am ever thankful to God for granting me so many blessings in life, including family, friends, and colleagues. Thanks to everyone who contributed to my birthday being such a special day!

I also just mentioned my dream job: That dream is even closer now! I have been teaching one day a week, but the past two weeks, it's been at least two days. And, I found out that next year my full-time position will be at Byford John Calvin School! So happy and excited!

Yesterday was Sports Day, and apart from a red nose, and now suffering from a bit of exhaustion, it was a fantastic day- I loved spending more time with kids, enjoying sport with them all, encouraging them to do their best, and helping them to use the bodies they've been given to God's glory. One of the highlights of my day was seeing one girl beat her personal best score in the 400m run by 25 seconds! It was a special moment for her, and to see children excel is one of my favourite pastimes. Yesterday was one of those days where I'm so thankful for God's guidance in leading me to teaching as a career, and for being able to have the opportunity to teach, support, and encourage, His children.

This past Wednesday was also Reformation Day. Tomorrow I have the privilege of starting to play piano in the Byford Church services, and my main piece for before the service is Luther's well-known hymn 'A Mighty Fortress'. Remembering Reformation Day as a turning point in the church's history, serving God through music, and acknowledging His hand throughout all ages (especially in His church) are more inspirational reflections this week has brought. 

And so, I've been inspired. To remember how blessed I am. To always be thankful for my blessings. To continue to trust in a God who is always there, leading me on the path of life, towards a more glorious day. 

Holidays

The longest time it’s taken me to get down to Albany? Current count: Just under five days (woahw!). But it was a great trip! The purpose was to take photos along the South West coast, and that’s what we did. A lot of absolutely amazing views, and many photos! Actually, the photo count is over 1000. And when I went to condense the photo count to show Oma the other day, even that came out to 99. So, how to put the photos on my blog? Seeing as I’m now an expert in using iMovie, I decided to put the photos into a slideshow, add some music, write a couple of captions and ta-da!! Blog post complete J

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8Trh6uBlGM&feature=youtu.be

P.S. Sorry about the quality of the photos, it's better to watch on small screen, and I had to condense the video otherwise it wouldn't upload. Enjoy anyway.

Crossing the Finish Line

There’s something satisfying about completing. Getting to the end is a wonderful feeling. Often it doesn’t really matter how big or long or high the task is- finishing it makes you feel good. But sometimes, just sometimes, the massive task is so time-consuming and energy-draining that completing it is more than just a good feeling- it becomes a memorable milestone.

Along life’s journey, I’ve just completed another mile. A mile that I probably won’t forget. The one that has taken 4 years to travel… that has taken many days and probably just as many late nights… that has taken countless hours of driving and train travel… that has seen me staring at a computer screen for what is longer (I’m sure) than is healthy… that has gone over many bumps and through many valleys… but ultimately one that has also climbed mountains and made me a (qualified!) teacher.

I can’t remember my first smile, or my first step, or my first day at school. But I will always remember the day I completed my university degree.

It’s been a long time since I’ve blogged. I could think of many excuses. But the biggest reason is that, and now I draw on an experience I hope you’ve all encountered, running those last few steps drains you. Most of the journey involves coasting along at a constant speed, but putting in that final effort, using all the stored energy, and racing to the finish line is exhausting. I’ve just done it.

To be honest, I’m not sure what I feel about finishing. To me, I’ve come first. I don’t know (and I don’t really care) what everyone else thinks, but the personal growth, the confidence, the experiences and the knowledge I’ve gained along the way puts me in first place. Having such a lovely group of students for my final prac, who think I’m the ‘best awesomest teacher’ (Sorry Mr G!) was wonderful, and although they think I’m the teacher, they’ve all taught me too. The final week of my uni journey was unforgettable, mostly thanks to them.

At the same time, that feeling of finishing also means that a journey is complete. There are some video replays that play over in my mind, but there’s a different road ahead. I’m going to miss student life!

I am ever so grateful for the opportunities, the challenges, the encouragement and the support I’ve been given along the way. Some times it was rough, and sometimes I needed a bit of help or advice- but it was always there.

On the 17^th October my results are released. Some time (early next year at a guess) will be my graduation. January 1^st I’ll start being paid as a full-time teacher. It’s all pretty exciting. I’ll let you know how everything goes! J

Quotable

I read this today, and thought it strikingly inspirational, and therefore very worthwhile of sharing...

"Don't miss out on a blessing just because it isn't packaged the way you expect it to be."

...which is the moral of this poem:

The man whispered, "God, speak to me"
and a meadowlark sang.

But, the man did not hear.
So the man yelled, "God, speak to me"
and the thunder rolled across the sky.

But, the man did not listen.
The man looked around and said,
"God let me see you."
And a star shined brightly.

But the man did not see.
And, the man shouted,
"God show me a miracle."
And, a life was born.

But, the man did not notice.
So, the man cried out in despair,
"Touch me God,
and let me know
you are here."

Whereupon, God reached down
and touched the man.
But, the man brushed
the butterfly away

and walked on.

(Author Unknown)

I Smell Like Oil

Yep. That's right. My hands, my clothes, my hair...... I smell like wonderful cooking oil. But hey, it was worth it. Today I decided to take my cooking to a whole new level and try out a Masterchef recipe that I saw recently and really wanted to taste. So, seeing as today wasn't a very busy day (in terms of what business busy-ness means to me at the moment, anyway) I cooked it for dinner. And made an absolute oily mess of the kitchen, which I will add, I DID clean up. As a result I got a little oily despite my brilliant plan to wear an apron. Perhaps next time I should wear a full-body suit or something...... ;)

That aside, I was so busy cooking and then eating that I didn't take photos of my amazing concoction :(. But I'll share the recipe (not like it's my top secret or anything) here for you to peek at, and maybe even give it a go yourself. This was something I hadn't tried before, and although I made some slight alterations, it kinda turned out similar. I'm not a fan of fish, but I don't mind squid, and this was pretty nice. Even the pickled onions were DELICIOUS. The best thing was that I even managed to make mayonnaise from scratch and it worked. Anyways, it tasted amazing, so next time you're wondering what to cook, here's a suggestion. There's even a photo on there (bonus!).

http://www.masterchef.com.au/recipes/lime-and-chilli-squid-with-herb-and-pickled-onion-salad-and-lime-aioli.htm

Have fun!

Rest, not Retail Therapy

The countdown is on.... only 6 days to go! The most amazing thing ever has struck town, and it's coming soon! Well, that's what some people think anyway.

Today I was struck by something mentioned on the radio, which hasn't been all that far from my thoughts recently. Coming Sunday marks the beginning of Sunday trading in WA. And to most people, that's a pretty exciting phenomenon. We get to shop on Sundays, fantastic! Now, to me, that seems rather absurd. Just because the shops are open on Sundays doesn't mean that you're going to have more money so that you can shop on a Sunday. Just because trading hours are extended doesn't mean that you're going to have the time and energy and funds to spend at the shops. If you could fit your grocery shopping in before (or if you take the online option), then why do you need or so desperately desire Sunday trading? To me, it seems rather strange that everyone's getting hyped up about Sunday trading, because in fact I don't see the point.

But, more importantly, Sunday trading is an act of sin against the 4th commandment which God gave to us for a reason. When God commanded man to rest, and to keep the Sabbath holy, He didn't mean that you can choose your day off work. He didn't mean that you could use a Sunday to do your shopping because 'you don't have any other time in the week'. God meant that the day He ordained for rest, was the day that you rest, and not in the sense of retail therapy. He meant that Sundays are a day set apart for His service, not servicing yourselves at the checkouts. He meant that He, as the majestic God who grants all things, including the blessings of money and shopping trips, was to be given a special day, not a sales 'specials' day.

All God asked was for 1 out of 7 days. He gives us 6 days per week to do whatever we like (although we must do so for His honour and glory, as humans we are given life choices and opportunities to do many things with our days). And not only that, God knows that we need rest. We're human beings, and we can't operate 14 days straight without a break. God knew even before He created the world, that man needed rest. And so He established a week that included one day of rest. And what better way to spend it then hearing His Word, meditating on it, and enjoying a day of praising Him? I don't mean here that we must simply go to church all day, or spend all day holed up on the couch reading Calvin's commentaries. No, within the families, friends, and communion of saints He's provided, we may worship Him and be thankful for what He's given us, enjoying the company of like-minded people. How rich we are to share a faith, to share a common goal, and to share in a marvellous Father!

And then, when I hear on a so-called Christian radio station, that the radio announcers are excited to go shopping on Sunday, I question where society is heading. And it's not just from them that I've heard this. Sure, there are many ways in which 'godly' or 'Christian' morals are being attacked, especially in the area of politics. We only need to think of how the world is dealing with marriage and pregnancy, to name a couple of examples. But how can people who claim to be 'Christian' support such an act that is so completely against God's Word? Then it seems no wonder God's Word is under attack.

At the same time, we must remember that God is in control, and He will use the foolish acts of men to further His kingdom. I continue to pray that each politician, each leader, and each citizen may recognise who their Creator and Sustainer is, and in that way acknowledge His commandments as the rule to life. May His Name continue to be acknowledged and revered on this earth, and may we continue to serve and honour Him with our whole lives, including our Sundays.

P.S. I also believe that the 4th commandment is a call to rest each day from our evil works, but this was not the point of the post, so I leave it here for now.

A Teacher's Mind at 3pm

As I sit here, there's 23 kids in red shirts sitting in front of me. They're busy practising their keyboarding skills, and I can't help but sit here and think about how this deserves a blog post. Somehow, I'm here in front of a class of lovely students. I'm in neat clothes, in charge, and so happy. There's a faint smell of sweaty children, grass and tennis balls wafting through the room, but rosy cheeks and sun-kissed smiles to go with it. We've all got a computer in front of us, there's a soft murmur of friendly chatter, and the sun is shining outside. I'm only 20min away from my next cup of tea, I'm halfway through my planning for tomorrow, and my students are not even half-excited about the swag of work they're doing tomorrow... :) You can't expect much more than this at 3 in the afternoon. I'm doing what I love, and I'm in love with it. Teaching rocks.

A Life Turn: The End of a Chapter

I really don't like emotional days, especially those where you're happy and sad and excited all at the same time. And, yep, you guessed it. Today was one of those days. I guess I wouldn't be blogging about it otherwise... 

Today was my last shift at Fair Haven, and what a day it was. It was a normal working shift, but so different in other ways. I kept thinking about 'lasts'. It was the last time I did the breakfast run, the last time I turned the stove on, the last load of dishes etc.. But then, in other ways, saying goodbye to so many people, sharing a last coffee break with amazing staff, talking about my career and aspirations as a thing of the moment rather than the future and all those kind of things you do on the last day of work made my day rather different. And difficult. It's not always easy to say 'goodbye' and 'thank you' and 'all the best'. It was hard to do, and quite saddening. 

I knew the day was coming, and it was something that I looked forward to, but also didn't want to pass. Somehow, it was the end before a beginning, the sign of change, and the last words of another life chapter. So I guess I can feel a bit sad. But at the same time, I'm excited for what's coming ahead. There's a career waiting for me. I've studied for 3 1/2 years to get to this point, and now it's time to take another leap out of my comfort zone, away from all the 'student stuff' toward my career as a professional teacher. So although I leave my job with sadness, it's with no regrets, for there are better things to come. 

13 months ago, I would never have guessed that I would be writing this today. And in some way, 13 months seems like a long time, but in other ways it doesn't.  Taking my average shifts, I've done more than 170 days, or more than 1100 hours, and I'll leave the maths there. For me, it went fast, but in other ways the amount that I've been able to grow and achieve in that time is incredible. I don't think I would have thought that I could have come this far as an individual person- the growth I have experienced in my knowledge, confidence, relationships, world view, attitudes and God-focused lifestyle is something to truly be thankful for. And I can only thank the loving staff and residents, and my heavenly Father, for that. I never knew that being holed up a kitchen for 7 hours could help me become the person I am today. And therefore I leave with confidence in my ability to pursue my dreams, new relationships, a new perspective on life, and a whole lot of knowledge about how to cook porridge and Dutch food. :)

It's also very comforting to know that I leave Fair Haven in God's hands, knowing that He looks after His children there, and that I may leave in confidence that He'll continue His plan of salvation for all those that live and work there. It is a blessing to have been part of a loving and Christian community there, and I pray that God will continue to bless them all. 

Thanks so much to all the staff at Fair Haven who have joined me and helped me on life's journey over the past year. Thanks to all the residents who have accepted me as part of their community, enjoyed my cooking, and were always willing to share a smile and chat. And thanks to God who has given me this opportunity and will continue to guide me in the future. 

Rally for Life

Last night I attended the 2012 Remembrance Walk and Rally for Life, an annual event where pro-life supporters mark the anniversary of the 1988 laws allowing abortion in WA. There were approx 750 people there rallying against the abortion laws. We started at Kings Park, with reading from the Bible, and praying for the government, our city, the church, unborn babies, and pregnant mothers and families. Then, under the supervision of some very kind police escorts, we walked behind banners and holding placards and 'candles' to Parliament House. In peace we could reflect for a minute on the shocking abortion statistics (116,000 babies have been aborted since the laws were first put in place) and say our own prayers for those suffering the effects of abortion and the unborn. We were also addressed by a number of said 'pro-life' parliamentarians who gave us words of encouragement to continue our fight, and support our politicians, against abortion and the protection of life in the womb. A statement by Mr. Peter Abetz has stayed in my mind, when he said something like "the most dangerous place for babies is in the womb".

It still beats me how people can morally justify abortion, or even bring themselves to do it, and why these laws were passed in the first place. Even not taking God's commandments into account, it is hard for me to even comprehend how people victimise themselves and make these decisions. At the same time, I pray that those who have been affected physically, emotionally and spiritually by abortion, may realise and depend on the forgiveness and healing of Jesus Christ.

It is heartbreaking to remember and realise the hurt this must cause our heavenly Father, who grants abundant life, who creates in His image, and who hates murder. It is my prayer that the government of Western Australia, Australia, and the entire world, realise the immorality and explicit disobedience of the abortion laws; and that life may be protected and cherished.

You can read a bit more here:
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/breaking/13758025/rally-fights-for-abortion-law-change/

A Rug and Lots of Questions

Sometimes I ask myself lots of questions. Today was one of those days… And I thought I’d share some with you (and put it in second (not first) person point of view for easier writing/reading).

Imagine for a second, that you are a tiny, woven thread in the middle of a beautiful rug. The rug is made of many colours, different types of thread, and various embellishments. And you’re just one small piece of that rug; you’re only a thread. But you’re still part of the rug, right? What if a small boy decided you were ugly, and pulled you out? Would you not feel unaccepted, incomplete, and lost? Or what if a neighbouring thread decided you didn’t belong and so they undid the interlocking that was binding you together? Would you not feel alone, unworthy, and unappreciated? Surely, as a thread within the rug, you have something to give. You have a colour, an embellishment, a different style or opinion to share. Should you not be able to express yourself? Should you not be able to contribute to the wellbeing of the rug as a whole? For if you were discarded as an ugly and useless thread, would the rug still be complete? Or would there be a hole and an empty space? Wouldn’t the whole rug then become ugly and useless?

Now imagine for a second, that you are a tiny, woven thread in the middle of a beautiful rug. But instead of being a dull, plain, brown thread (or whatever you imagined in the previous example), you’re a brilliant, feathery, blue thread. What are you going to do with your colour and style? Are you going to flaunt your embellishments above others, take over the rug, and not let others contribute to its beauty and purpose? Or will you find, and be comfortable in, the place given to you by the Tailor, and share your character and opinion in an equitable and loving manner?

What colour thread are you (What is your character, your person, your opinion, your gifts)? What is your place in the rug (Where have you been placed in God’s congregation and the communion of saints, and what is your influence)? How will you use this position for the benefit of the whole rug? How will you display your character and opinion? How will you love the other threads and show them their worth as a valuable piece of a united whole that can’t be broken?

“Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”

       (Eph 4:1-3). 

Inspiration

I'm writing an integrated program. Which requires inspiration and motivation.

Watching the sun rise above fish-less water... Buying an awesome canvas print which I absolutely looove... Drinking too many cups of tea, along with plentiful trips to the loo... Thinking about the few weeks left of uni classes and the possibilities of a career in reformed education... Reading books- Wow, I've actually found some time to do so!... Playing piano (as if my fingers don't get enough of a work out)... Well, I guess I have to keep busy somehow! I guess I could add visiting friends, reminiscing over photos, chatting on Facebook, writing to-do-lists, cooking and making old people smile, thinking of what else to add to this list...
It's all pretty inspiring, I must say!

In other exciting news, it's my first visit to my ATP prac class tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to being called Miss Dekker again :) (Actually I'm not sure I like that name, but I have to get used to it... I'm more anticipating the thrills of teaching and being in a classroom for a day)!

My Car Part 3

Today I rang the mechanic. And yes, I blew a (or the?) head gasket on my car. Badly. How bad, he doesn't know until he takes a look (which will cost lots of $$$ just to have a look), but bad enough to say that it seriously overheated and doesn't look good. So basically at the least he'll need to have a look at the car's head (weird, but that's what they call it), fix/replace the gasket, fix/replace the radiator, and then check if there's damage in the bottom of the engine too, which is also a possibility. But he won't know more about that until he takes the head off, and I'm not quite prepared to spend lots of money just to see if there's more damage. That said, he also mentioned that should I get it fixed, there's no guarantee the car will work all that well afterwards any way, because it could start burning oil etc, but again he won't know that until it's fixed and I start driving it again. Which probably won't happen... All in all, adding in the back windscreen, it adds up to over $2000 plus tires plus suspension etc. Probably not worth it. So, at this stage, I think (or know but don't want to admit it just quite yet) that I need a new car. 

Just in case you wanted to know, that's the story. 

Lest We Forget

They shall not grow old, 

As we that are left grow old,

Age shall not weary them, 

Nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun, 

And in the morning

We will remember them.

Today is ANZAC Day. A day to remember the lives lost in war, to celebrate the freedom of this land, and to reflect on the blessings afforded us through peace. I'm not sure when the last time I've thought about peace was, to be honest (Remembrance Day perhaps?). It's something that I guess I don't really reflect on all that often. I don't see warfare on the streets, I don't witness violent acts, I don't have to hide away from soldiers... I suppose peace is just one of those things that is present and exists in my life, but rarely noticed. 

So today, when I think about those soldiers who have fought and who continue to fight for my country, I'm going to be thankful for them, for their willingness, courage and bravery, for their sacrifice for this nation, and also pray that God will bless their efforts so that I may continue to live in peace and freedom.

Today, when I think about the peace I have, I'm going to be thankful that God has given me a peaceful home, that I have rights and privileges, and a stable country to live in.

Today, when I think about the free existence I can live, I'm going to be thankful that I can serve my God, that I can live as a Christian, and that I live not in fear, but in patient expectation of Christ's return.

When I hear the Last Post (one of my all-time favourite pieces of music), I'm going to think about the trumpet call on that final day, when Christ will be revealed in glory on the clouds of heaven. 

I also pray that as a nation, Australia will recognise and come to know the Creator and Sustainer of all. There is still turmoil and conflict at times, and although we all want it, there will never be world peace. Because there is a battle between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent. And therefore I pray that Australia will turn to Him, trust His guidance, obey His commandments, and value that which is pleasing to Him. 

As today I remember, I'm not going to only celebrate the achievements of men, but the power and wisdom of God, His wonderful work of preservation and providence, His glorious strength which far surpasses any human might, and then marvel that I know such a great God. 

Lest I forget Him. 

My Car Part 2

This time, my post will be serious. No, I didn't just make up all that stuff about no back windscreen and a blown head gasket. But there is also something I've learned from this unpleasant experience. And it's got something to do with taking things for granted. I've posted about that before, but this time I have a concrete example to work from. Here goes, 5 things to think about:

1. What's right to do on a Sunday?
When my back windscreen smashed, I was wondering how I was ever going to get back to Perth (from Dunsborough). I first discovered it was broken on Sunday afternoon, and I had to work at 530am on Monday morning. Uh oh. So, should I ring RAC? It was Sunday after all. Or should I ring my boss and say I can't get back and so I can't work on Monday? Or is there any other way I can get back to Perth and use my sister's car to get to work on Monday morning? Should I even have planned to drive back on a Sunday? Some discussion right there- what's right to do on a Sunday, and what's not? I'm still not sure that I can answer that question, or perhaps the question isn't phrased correctly. Something to think about.
(By the way, I did end up ringing RAC (or should I say, I got Dad to do it, because I know nothing about cars)... But they couldn't help, because a broken back windscreen isn't classed as mechanical failure, and so I wasn't covered for them to come and fix it).

2. How much owning your own car and having your license does for your independence.
It's amazing how quickly you forget what a car and a license means. I remember first getting my P's, and being able to drive myself around, whenever I wanted, so long as I had a bit of fuel in the tank. But, after blowing a head gasket, my car was out of action. And all of a sudden, I couldn't go places whenever I wanted. I had to borrow a car or get a lift from someone. Freedom and independence in that regard, was something I'd never fully realised, or at least I'd forgotten.

3. How often we take material possessions for granted.
'I wouldn't be able to live without it!' is a pretty common expression. And even if we don't literally mean it, there are certain things that we pretty much can't live without. And for me, a car was one of those things. So much so, that I organised that I had a car to drive within two days (admittedly that wasn't all that difficult, but even so). This whole incident has been a lesson in thankfulness and gratitude for me. I'm actually thankful for a car, for the opportunity to drive, for good roads, for a way to get to places when I need to. That's just one example of the material things we forget about and take for granted. And I'm also very thankful for those people that drove me around everywhere when I didn't have a car to drive myself around in.

4. How things can change in a matter of three seconds (and don't boast!).
I was just telling Oma on Saturday that my car was running very well. All the cars owned by my family members recently had a service, and mine was the cheapest by far. Boastful much? I needed two new tires, but for the rest, everything was running smoothly. And I didn't even think about it, I just assumed it would run fine, I assumed it would start every time I turned the key, that it would get me places without breaking down. How many other things do we think will just work? But three seconds changed all of those 'don't-care' attitudes of mine toward my car. Now I may just have to buy a new one. There's so many things we can't predict. Thankfully it's all in God's hands.

5.  Trust God to provide!
I'm really hoping that the mechanic isn't going to say that my car's not worth fixing. And even if he does fix it, it'll cost a bit of money. I bought this car, for the price that I did, thinking that it would get me through uni at least, and hopefully a bit more. But it didn't even do that, well that's what I'm guessing... Money isn't the nicest thing in the world. Because it comes and leaves very quickly. And it drives the world (no pun intended)- sadly. For me, I'm going to have to learn to save a bit of money, use what God's given me wisely, and trust that He will provide everything in His good time. May this be a lesson that in everything we trust God's guidance, and when things don't go exactly according to plan, that He'll provide. 

Once Upon a Sunday Drive...

Once upon a Sunday drive... my wonderful white beast carked it. I'm still waiting for a call from the mechanic to see if it's worth reviving, but that's another story for another day, when I've received that call. For now anyways, I've been asked by someone to blog about my car- why, I'm not so sure, but I do like to honour requests. It so happens that this very same person thinks that I should get my parents to buy me a new car, because it's their responsibility to look after their children. I wonder what my parents would think about that......

Okay, so back to the original story. Man, I get way off track sometimes! I'm sorry. Sorry for going way off track, and for putting my car through such torture- it pretty much got torched, if you can say burning out, and letting off way too much steam, more so than is acceptable for a four-wheeled thing, is getting torched. I like to call it that, anyway, then at least I can say it's been through torchure. Not on my behalf though, I don't think I would ever consider torturing a car, it's a bit too precious for that. I like to care for things, and I'm always careful not to upset the applecart. But you see, carrying such a responsibility (i.e. caring for things in such a way that you don't topple the applecart) is scarcely heard of these days, so I'm thinking I either need to make a career of it, or I should forget about the applecart and think of yummier things like caramel, or macaroni, or macaroons. Oh no, too full of carbohydrates. Let me see, carrots are probably a healthier option, and they match well with the applecart. At least I'll get my 2&5 serves of fruit and veggies. And I can even add some bicarb to spice (or fizz) it up a bit.

Anyways, as I was saying, it all happened once upon a Sunday drive. Some carpenter person, who also lays carpets, was carpooling with his caretaker friend, and towing a caravan, and just randomly decided to precariously drive down the road on his way to post that postcard he'd spent hours carefully writing. Oh the irony of carefully and painstakingly writing a card and then forgetting about the applecart when you actually go to send it off. Okay, so this dude was carrying some precious cargo, and because he was concentrating so hard on precariously driving to protect it, he decided to make my back window a carcass of tiny glass fragments, by simply flicking a stone just right into a perfect cartwheel, scarring the road as it leapt up, carved beautifully through the air, careened into my windscreen, and made the glass look like a 20carat diamond. Magnificent finish, and an applause-worthy performance. True story except for two things: I wasn't applauding, and I have no idea who or what or when or why or how my windscreen smashed. Oh, and that's just the beginning.

My car was in Dunsborough, sorry I forgot to mention that bit. And somehow it had to get back to Perth, and I wasn't going to drive it without a back windscreen, and we didn't have plastic or cardboard to cover it up... So my sister drove it (carazy! I know!) and I drove her friends car... And everything was going magnificently until she pulled over and so did I, and there was all steam pouring out of the bonnet, and the coolant was boiling, and I didn't know what to do, and so I rang Dad, he said ring RAC (ever notice that this acronym is car backwards...), so I rang RAC, we couldn't figure out where we were, then they rang me back, then the lady on the other end of the phone who had a lovely voice told us to wait while a guy came from Harvey, then he came, then he said it wasn't good, because he said that I'd blown a head gasket, but he couldn't say why, and he drove away, and Rachel got Ryan to come, and we waited for about 2.5 hours at the petrol station, and then Ryan finally got there, and then we pushed the car on the trailer (that was hard work!), and then Ryan took it back to our house, and then I bought him a carton of beer because he did such a good job, and then it sat in the garage looking rather sad for a few days, and then I was carless (not careless, that's not me, remember!), until my sister sorted out the paperwork for her car, and now I can drive her car, but while that was happening my car was taken to the mechanic last night, and now I'm waiting for a phone call.

Oh, and I always like to look on the bright side... I've reduced my carbon footprint. (Well, at least for the two days I was carless, anyway).

Now, your job is to fix my car. But if you can't do that for free, then find how many times the letters see, aye and are can be found, in that order, in this blog post. Or how many times you can find 'car' in this blog post. You should get the same number.

P.S. I think the appropriate use of commas, and the term 'my ramblings', just received new definitions  :)  :)  :)

Easter

I would like to wish all my blog readers a blessed Easter. May our gracious God bless you as you commemorate the death of His Son, and remember that first Easter 2000 years ago. Amongst all the holidays, family do's, chocolate, fish, and beer, do take time to reflect on the blessings afforded to us because of Easter. How rich we are in Christ, who through His crucifixion and resurrection grants us forgiveness of sins and everlasting life!

Take care, have an enjoyable weekend, and stay safe, especially if you're travelling...
Now I have to pack. I've got a busy weekend in Dunsborough and Albany planned! :)

Psalm 90- In Memoriam

On Sunday morning, the LORD took home to Himself one of His children, a beautiful lady who lived in the hostel where I work. Today, I was blessed to attend a mini-memoriam service with the residents and staff of the hostel/retirement village. Together we read Psalm 90, prayed and sang the same psalm. It was a nice way to reflect on the blessings God gives us in life, and also to receive comfort from His promises of life after death.

PSALM 90, NKJV
"Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth,
Or ever You had formed the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

You turn man to destruction,
And say, “Return, O children of men.”
For a thousand years in Your sight
Are like yesterday when it is past,
And like a watch in the night.

You carry them away like a flood;
They are like a sleep.
In the morning they are like grass which grows up:
In the morning it flourishes and grows up;
In the evening it is cut down and withers.

For we have been consumed by Your anger,
And by Your wrath we are terrified.
You have set our iniquities before You,
Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.
For all our days have passed away in Your wrath;
We finish our years like a sigh.

The days of our lives are seventy years;
And if by reason of strength they are eighty years,
Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow;
For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.

Who knows the power of Your anger?
For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath.
So teach us to number our days,
That we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Return, O Lord!
How long?
And have compassion on Your servants.
Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy,
That we may rejoice and be glad all our days!
Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us,
The years in which we have seen evil.

Let Your work appear to Your servants,
And Your glory to their children.
And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us;
Yes, establish the work of our hands."

 

We are blessed with life; and many people, by God's grace, receive more than 80 (some even 90) years of life.  Reflecting on the blessing of life, it is easy to take for granted the riches we receive in simply breathing; let alone being able to 'live' i.e. communicate, work, play, etc. Life is frail. God numbers our days, and each day is another blessing from His hand. When thinking about this, it's also important then, that we live our life to the fullest. That is, to God's glory, and as a blessing to others on this earth.

As Psalm 90 also says, our sins weigh us down, and this world is full of evil. Yet with God's mercy, we can be glad for the days God gives us, even if they're full of trouble. Because He redeems and rescues us for that slavery, and grants us a new life in Him, beginning on this earth.

And we can be thankful that He is our dwelling place to all generations. We can find comfort in His arms, also as we grieve. May He grant us the peace of knowing that His children, when they pass away, go home- home to their eternal and majestic Father. May He grant us comfort when we grieve an empty space here on earth, and the grace and strength to move forward.

May God so establish the works of our hands, that we work in His kingdom with all joy, that we are grateful, that we shine as lights in the world, and that we live for His service. For one day He will call us home, where we begin a life with God that will never end.

The Comfort of Everlasting Life

Jesus is our sure defence.
Why should we then fear or waver?
All our hope and confidence
Rest on Him the risen Saviour.
Even in our darkest hour
He will shield us with His power.

We are flesh and must return
To the dust whence we were taken,
But we from the Scriptures learn
That from death we shall awaken:
We like buried seed that dies
Shall unto new life arise.

What is weak and mortal here,
Prey to illness and destruction,
Shall with glorious power appear
In the hour of resurrection.
What today is sown disgraced
In great honour shall be raised.

To our God be thanks and praise:
He through Christ made us victorious.
Be then steadfast all your days;
See how death's defeat assures us
That in Him who comes again
All your toil is not in vain.

- Hymn 51, Book of Praise

24/7 100%

So... This blog post has been sitting in my head for a while now. Recently I've heard a few sermons and discussions on what it means to live a life devoted to God. And it means 24/7 100% commitment.

When looking at life, there is so much to look at. This world, people, possessions, time, nature, careers, food, health..... LIFE. There's so much involved. Plenty of opportunities for us to live an earthly life that's pretty good. We like to think that what we do and think and say makes us pretty good people, and we establish 'good' lives for ourselves. But God doesn't just call us to live good lives whenever we can, or whenever we feel like it. Because everything we receive is God's. And He calls us to a life of service.


A life of service- that means our whole, entire life.

• With a vow- "Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High" (Ps 50:14). A vow is a solemn pledge that is binding for life. It's more than good intentions and outward obedience, and it requires sincerity. We vow to live our life as a living member of His church, as thankful Christians with heartfelt desire to sincerely serve Him in all we do.
• With our whole being- heart, soul, mind, strength, intellect, words, thoughts, actions, time, money, relationships, jobs, etc.
• With priority- Our life should be focussed on God's service. That should have priority, first consideration, be our goal, our 'be all and end all'.
• With a thankful attitude- God wants our sacrifices of love, but not because we begrudgingly feel we should, or because it's custom to do so, or we fear the elders knocking at our door... but with a heart full of gratitude and true thankfulness and joy because of what God has given us.
• With a different lifestyle- A life that is focussed on God's service will ultimately manifest itself in a different lifestyle. The way we live out our lives reflects our inner desires and attitudes. The way we spend our leisure time, how we act within our jobs, how we relate to other people, how we attend religious activities (church, club, socials, meetings etc), how we dress, the language we use...
• With a promise of reward- God promises that if we walk with Him, we'll find everlasting life. He promises delieverance through the Redeemer Jesus Christ. We are promised deliverance from trouble- more specifically, the cause of trouble- that is, sin. Therefore we glorify Him in a life of thankfulness.

Do we still stand in awe of God- do we know the person to whom we bring our sacrifices? Do we give from the heart or out of custom? Do we realise that Bible knowledge must translate to our lifestyle? Do we wear the right clothes for service? Do we always speak the truth in love? Do we always spend our money and time appropriately? Do we keep God and His glory as focus? Do we live our faith?

Keep grace in mind. When we personally see how Christ has delivered 'me', then it's not hard to life a life of constant thankfulness. It is all by the grace of God. Cling to Christ, for His love never runs dry.

P.S. A lot of this post has been inspired by, and phrased from, Rev A Veldman's sermon delivered in Byford on Sunday 11th March 2012. My apologies for not acknowledging this earlier when I first published the post. KD