It's been a long time since my last post! Boy, have I been busy!
Unfortunately, my other job has become extremely busy meaning that I have had to work away from home, work long hours taking calls into the evening! I haven't even bought my wife's Christmas present yet! And, somehow, all this rushing around for work has taken the edge off the usual excitement for Christmas.
The good news is that I finish work about 5pm Christmas Eve and can rest all the way through to 2nd January! Well, that's the plan, but somehow I don't think there will be a lot of rest.
In the UK, Argos has broadcast a good advertisement, (or 'commercial' as the US say), showing everyone running around getting absolutely frazzled with Christmas shopping and preparations. The director seems to have caught the 'spirit' of Christmas about right when I look at our shopping centres.
On the news this morning the reporter mentioned that there has been a 50% increase of the number of people working on Christmas Day. This isn't due to emergency service staff, but mainly retail staff opening their sales even earlier this year! So if you forget that present, you can nip out on Christmas morning and grab yourselves a bargain!
I remember the days when nothing was open on Christmas Day: no petrol stations, no corner shops, no pubs, and that made it a very special day as family and friends would get together and share that day with no pressures. With the secularisation of our society today, not only does Christmas go out the window, but so does family gatherings as more people are called upon to work, and others called upon to go shopping! This adds to the continued breakdown in society where family values are further eroded away.
Well, on Christmas Day I will be at church in the morning, 'cause I'm hosting the service, and then I will go home to celebrate our Saviour's birthday with my family.
Shopping??? Bah humbug!
21 December 2007
29 November 2007
Countdown to Christmas
Christmas is just 27 days away when we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. But these days, the Christmas season seems to run from October to Christmas Day as each shop vies for position with the seasonal publicity. The sight of baubels as you come back from a late summer break is depressing, not because it reminds us of our Saviour, but because retailers see it as an early opportunity to make money.
I struggle in my own household to postpone the Christmas decorations until mid-December, and each year there is pressure to get the tree up and the tinsel out as soon as the Advent calendars are put up.
The season of Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ, and rather than focusing on this, we all seem to be busy with preparing for the big family meal of the year, worrying over what socks to buy Uncle George, or whether buying Boots vouchers for your favourite niece smacks of a lack of thought; did I order the right size turkey? And of course, don't answer the door to the Carol Singers as I don't have any change. All these things distracts us from the object of our celebration - the coming of our Saviour!
The fact that "... God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV), should make us all stop and think that the greatest gift this Christmas is what God gives us - eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Well, I am off to update last year's Christmas card list and make sure my overseas cards get off in time. I'll do the present shopping on Christmas Eve!!!
Pastor Pete
I struggle in my own household to postpone the Christmas decorations until mid-December, and each year there is pressure to get the tree up and the tinsel out as soon as the Advent calendars are put up.
The season of Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ, and rather than focusing on this, we all seem to be busy with preparing for the big family meal of the year, worrying over what socks to buy Uncle George, or whether buying Boots vouchers for your favourite niece smacks of a lack of thought; did I order the right size turkey? And of course, don't answer the door to the Carol Singers as I don't have any change. All these things distracts us from the object of our celebration - the coming of our Saviour!
The fact that "... God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV), should make us all stop and think that the greatest gift this Christmas is what God gives us - eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Well, I am off to update last year's Christmas card list and make sure my overseas cards get off in time. I'll do the present shopping on Christmas Eve!!!
Pastor Pete
09 November 2007
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends
It is difficult to describe the feeling of sadness and grief following the devastating warehouse fire at Atherston on Stour and the loss of four brave firefighters. It has touched the communities of Stratford and Alcester and surrounding area as the lives of these brave men touched so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends as they grieve for their loss.
An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of their death, but that does not distract us from the fact that men and women of our emergency services are putting their lives on the line to serve us in the community. These men went into the burning warehouse to search for anyone trapped inside. There is no doubt that facing a raging inferno would test the mettle of anyone, and yet they continued in to save the lives of others.
Not many of us are faced with that decision, and certainly don't face it as often as some, so how would we respond to a similar situation? In the gospel of John, chapter 15 verse 13, Jesus reminds us of such a sacrifice as He foretells of His sacrifice for each one of us.
I pray that the joy and hope that we receive from following Christ and His teachings may eventually go someway to fill the void in the lives of the families and friends of these brave men.
An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of their death, but that does not distract us from the fact that men and women of our emergency services are putting their lives on the line to serve us in the community. These men went into the burning warehouse to search for anyone trapped inside. There is no doubt that facing a raging inferno would test the mettle of anyone, and yet they continued in to save the lives of others.
Not many of us are faced with that decision, and certainly don't face it as often as some, so how would we respond to a similar situation? In the gospel of John, chapter 15 verse 13, Jesus reminds us of such a sacrifice as He foretells of His sacrifice for each one of us.
I pray that the joy and hope that we receive from following Christ and His teachings may eventually go someway to fill the void in the lives of the families and friends of these brave men.
20 October 2007
Who invented Comfort Zones?
A number of events recently has made me think that sometimes we are just too cozy in our churches! We love meeting together for worship and fellowship and enjoy our time together, and that is brilliant, but we become uncomfortable if something out of the 'ordinary' happens!
It seems that we are lulled into a sense of security, whether true or false, but when something comes along that makes us feel uncomfortable, we huddle together in the hope that we can regain that feeling of security.
Okay, this is all a bit vague so let me put to you some instances!
1) A person, who obviously has different behavioural standards, enters the church during a morning service and tries to join in. Their behaviour immediately puts us on edge because they seem unpredictable and we don't know what they are going to do!
2) A person, who was invited to the service, causes a bit of a commotion because they made some people cry and others laugh with joy!
3) A person, comes into the church and ministers to a few of the congregation and they are healed of different things!
Now I have to say, that this sort of thing doesn't happen all the time at our church, but it should! You see, that person is the Holy Spirit and He does move amongst us during our times of worship, but some feel uneasy because of the instances I have just quoted. But I have to say, that He is a gentleman, because He never comes in uninvited. He never upsets people, but releases them from past hurts. He is never a show-off as He is only doing what our Father in heaven is asking Him to do!
As we read through Acts and learn of the first Christian church it becomes apparent that where the Word of God is preached, and His name is worshipped, signs and wonders accompanied them. I am a firm believer that is still the case today as we have witnessed in our church!
And yes, sometimes it is a bit unnerving and a little frightening if you don't know what is happening, but when you know it is the Holy Spirit at work, you realize that God is meeting the needs of His church and equipping us to complete His mission to this world.
Don't be frightened when the Holy Spirit moves, but invite Him to fill you anew so that we can do the work of our Father in heaven.
It seems that we are lulled into a sense of security, whether true or false, but when something comes along that makes us feel uncomfortable, we huddle together in the hope that we can regain that feeling of security.
Okay, this is all a bit vague so let me put to you some instances!
1) A person, who obviously has different behavioural standards, enters the church during a morning service and tries to join in. Their behaviour immediately puts us on edge because they seem unpredictable and we don't know what they are going to do!
2) A person, who was invited to the service, causes a bit of a commotion because they made some people cry and others laugh with joy!
3) A person, comes into the church and ministers to a few of the congregation and they are healed of different things!
Now I have to say, that this sort of thing doesn't happen all the time at our church, but it should! You see, that person is the Holy Spirit and He does move amongst us during our times of worship, but some feel uneasy because of the instances I have just quoted. But I have to say, that He is a gentleman, because He never comes in uninvited. He never upsets people, but releases them from past hurts. He is never a show-off as He is only doing what our Father in heaven is asking Him to do!
As we read through Acts and learn of the first Christian church it becomes apparent that where the Word of God is preached, and His name is worshipped, signs and wonders accompanied them. I am a firm believer that is still the case today as we have witnessed in our church!
And yes, sometimes it is a bit unnerving and a little frightening if you don't know what is happening, but when you know it is the Holy Spirit at work, you realize that God is meeting the needs of His church and equipping us to complete His mission to this world.
Don't be frightened when the Holy Spirit moves, but invite Him to fill you anew so that we can do the work of our Father in heaven.
12 October 2007
Baptism is just the beginning!
As a pastor, I have the privilege of serving people at different stages of their lives and faith journey's and one of the most joyful milestones is their baptism! It is such a joy to take new Christians through the waters of baptism and see their faith grow. As a pastor of Baptist church we follow the New Testament practice of baptizing believers by full immersion, which basically means that we baptize those who clearly profess their new faith in Jesus Christ, from head to toe by laying them down under the water and raising them out in a matter of a second or so.
For the believer, this is a tremendous occasion as their share in one of the sacraments that identifies them with Christ, as they profess their faith to all around, and signify the 'death' of their old life as they go under the water, and their new life in Christ as they are raised up. For most, it is a deeply spiritual moment marking a change in their lives for ever.
For Jesus, his baptism by John the Baptist, marked the start of his 40 days in the wilderness to be tested by the devil. And it seems that after such a spiritual 'high' comes times of trial and testing.
I am always careful to warn 'baptisees' that sometimes after baptism comes a time of trial, temptation or persecution. You see, when the devil loses out on a soul, he tends to fight back, but the good news is that he is a defeated foe! The way to win a battle is to know your enemy, and so if you know where the attack is coming from, you can guard yourself against it!
Baptism is the start of an incredible journey of faith where God's promises come alive and bestowes an abundant life of meaning and purpose. His Holy Spirit guides us and empowers us to be effective witnesses to His grace and mercy, and to a life of mission in the name of Jesus Christ.
I can't imagine a life without Him!
For the believer, this is a tremendous occasion as their share in one of the sacraments that identifies them with Christ, as they profess their faith to all around, and signify the 'death' of their old life as they go under the water, and their new life in Christ as they are raised up. For most, it is a deeply spiritual moment marking a change in their lives for ever.
For Jesus, his baptism by John the Baptist, marked the start of his 40 days in the wilderness to be tested by the devil. And it seems that after such a spiritual 'high' comes times of trial and testing.
I am always careful to warn 'baptisees' that sometimes after baptism comes a time of trial, temptation or persecution. You see, when the devil loses out on a soul, he tends to fight back, but the good news is that he is a defeated foe! The way to win a battle is to know your enemy, and so if you know where the attack is coming from, you can guard yourself against it!
Baptism is the start of an incredible journey of faith where God's promises come alive and bestowes an abundant life of meaning and purpose. His Holy Spirit guides us and empowers us to be effective witnesses to His grace and mercy, and to a life of mission in the name of Jesus Christ.
I can't imagine a life without Him!
21 September 2007
The less fortunate children in the world!
I am a typical English bloke where it takes something to move me to tears, but just two years ago, I saw a sight that broke my heart! I was watching a news crew filming in Georgia, formerly part of the USSR. They were reporting on the plight of many chilren in that country.
Before my eyes, I saw the bare rooms of a childrens institution in T'bilisi full of small children with no facilities. There were no sheets or blankets on the beds, no carpet on the floor, no toys or games to play with! The sanitation was a lot to be desired and the washrooms had no hot water at all. If this were in the UK, the government would shut it down, but here in Georgia, this was the best the goverment could do.
Since the break up of the USSR, Georgia has been struggling economically, and inflation and unemployment had soared. Many families found themselves struggling to make ends meet with the result that some families gave their children to the authorities because they could not afford to feed and clothe them. The childrens institutions were being filled, not just with orphans, but with loved children whose families could not afford to keep them!
Since that film report, I have strived to raise money for Everychild (www.everychild.org.uk) who work with the authorities in Georgia to resettle children with their families by providing support to them, or finding families that will foster the children. They are looking to address the source of the problem rather than trying to provide for the ever increasing demand of institutions.
On Saturday 22nd September, the children of Studley Baptist Church are having a Toy Bring 'n' Buy Sale to raise more money for the children in Georgia. It is encouraging to see them engage in the plight of children less fortunate than themselves, and to do something about it. If you do nothing else today, I suggest you click on the Everychild link above, and look at the work they are doing all over the world, as there are many other needs as well as Georgia.
So far, as a church, we have raised over £2,500 in the last two years for this work, and I am planning some more fundraisers. This may seem just a drop in the ocean for what is really needed, but some famous person, who I can't quite recall, said !The ocean is made of many drops!" If we all did a little, it would add up to a lot!
Keep an eye on the blog to see some rather adventurous initiatives in coming months.
What stirs you into action for others? Where is your compassion focussed? It is only when we look around at the poverty and injustice in the world that we can put our own 'problems' into perspective.
Pastor Pete
Before my eyes, I saw the bare rooms of a childrens institution in T'bilisi full of small children with no facilities. There were no sheets or blankets on the beds, no carpet on the floor, no toys or games to play with! The sanitation was a lot to be desired and the washrooms had no hot water at all. If this were in the UK, the government would shut it down, but here in Georgia, this was the best the goverment could do.
Since the break up of the USSR, Georgia has been struggling economically, and inflation and unemployment had soared. Many families found themselves struggling to make ends meet with the result that some families gave their children to the authorities because they could not afford to feed and clothe them. The childrens institutions were being filled, not just with orphans, but with loved children whose families could not afford to keep them!
Since that film report, I have strived to raise money for Everychild (www.everychild.org.uk) who work with the authorities in Georgia to resettle children with their families by providing support to them, or finding families that will foster the children. They are looking to address the source of the problem rather than trying to provide for the ever increasing demand of institutions.
On Saturday 22nd September, the children of Studley Baptist Church are having a Toy Bring 'n' Buy Sale to raise more money for the children in Georgia. It is encouraging to see them engage in the plight of children less fortunate than themselves, and to do something about it. If you do nothing else today, I suggest you click on the Everychild link above, and look at the work they are doing all over the world, as there are many other needs as well as Georgia.
So far, as a church, we have raised over £2,500 in the last two years for this work, and I am planning some more fundraisers. This may seem just a drop in the ocean for what is really needed, but some famous person, who I can't quite recall, said !The ocean is made of many drops!" If we all did a little, it would add up to a lot!
Keep an eye on the blog to see some rather adventurous initiatives in coming months.
What stirs you into action for others? Where is your compassion focussed? It is only when we look around at the poverty and injustice in the world that we can put our own 'problems' into perspective.
Pastor Pete
17 September 2007
Time for a break!
Last week was another busy one with work and pastoral duties. Monday night was spent at the church centre at a Deaconate meeting. It was one of those meetings where a lot seemed to be have been achieved, with many subjects being covered in the 3 hours!!
On Tuesday, Kim and I celebrated our Silver Wedding Anniversary, and we spent the evening preparing the church for the Thanksgiving Service of Mrs Marjorie Lee, making sure the refreshments were set up and the sanctuary was clean and tidy. We had planned a party for Friday night, and we also manage to meet for lunch so it was still special.
The Thanksgiving Service went very well on Wednesday with many people sharing tributes to a wonderful Christian lady. She will be sorely missed after being in membership since 1940! Marjorie was very key in my accepting the role of pastor; as the eldest and longest serving member, I felt it important that I had her support for my ministry. Not only did she support me, but she was always encouraging me with her tolerance for the 'new' style of contemporary worship. I will miss her counsel!
Friday saw the big party with over 100 guests celebrating our anniversary with us. It was a great night sharing with family and friends. I can't believe that it was over 25 years ago that we got married! It doesn't seem that long ago. Kim and I have had our ups and downs during that time, but our love has grown stronger as our faith in Christ has grown stronger.
Now Saturday, we set out with the caravan for the Lake District, but first we stopped overnight at Burrs Country Park in Bury to break up the journey. On Sunday, we set out for our final destination, Troutbeck in Cumbria. The views from the caravan park are breathtaking, and the site is peaceful. The weather has been showery and breezy, but that doesn't spoil the enjoyment of the scenery.
Today, we journeyed around Ullswater, over the Kirkstone Pass to Bowness-on-Windermere to where we honeymooned for the 2nd night! We had a lovely lunch in a reassurance over looking the lake, and took some photos of the hotel where we stayed 25 years ago. The journey back to the caravan took us over the Kirkstone Pass a second time, this time, with glorious sunshine.
It is great to have this time to ourselves as Kim and I reminisce over the last 25 years, on where we have been, where God has been leading us. We are looking forward to this holiday recharging our batteries, spending time together and taking time to listen to God as we read His word.
To all our friends back at Studley, you are still in our thoughts and prayers while we are here.
We will see you next weekend.
God bless,
Pastor Pete & Kim
On Tuesday, Kim and I celebrated our Silver Wedding Anniversary, and we spent the evening preparing the church for the Thanksgiving Service of Mrs Marjorie Lee, making sure the refreshments were set up and the sanctuary was clean and tidy. We had planned a party for Friday night, and we also manage to meet for lunch so it was still special.
The Thanksgiving Service went very well on Wednesday with many people sharing tributes to a wonderful Christian lady. She will be sorely missed after being in membership since 1940! Marjorie was very key in my accepting the role of pastor; as the eldest and longest serving member, I felt it important that I had her support for my ministry. Not only did she support me, but she was always encouraging me with her tolerance for the 'new' style of contemporary worship. I will miss her counsel!
Friday saw the big party with over 100 guests celebrating our anniversary with us. It was a great night sharing with family and friends. I can't believe that it was over 25 years ago that we got married! It doesn't seem that long ago. Kim and I have had our ups and downs during that time, but our love has grown stronger as our faith in Christ has grown stronger.
Now Saturday, we set out with the caravan for the Lake District, but first we stopped overnight at Burrs Country Park in Bury to break up the journey. On Sunday, we set out for our final destination, Troutbeck in Cumbria. The views from the caravan park are breathtaking, and the site is peaceful. The weather has been showery and breezy, but that doesn't spoil the enjoyment of the scenery.
Today, we journeyed around Ullswater, over the Kirkstone Pass to Bowness-on-Windermere to where we honeymooned for the 2nd night! We had a lovely lunch in a reassurance over looking the lake, and took some photos of the hotel where we stayed 25 years ago. The journey back to the caravan took us over the Kirkstone Pass a second time, this time, with glorious sunshine.
It is great to have this time to ourselves as Kim and I reminisce over the last 25 years, on where we have been, where God has been leading us. We are looking forward to this holiday recharging our batteries, spending time together and taking time to listen to God as we read His word.
To all our friends back at Studley, you are still in our thoughts and prayers while we are here.
We will see you next weekend.
God bless,
Pastor Pete & Kim
02 September 2007
Sunday - a day of rest?
Do you know, some Sundays are just so full of God's provision and grace that His blessings just keep on overflowing! As I prepared for today's activities, I looked at quite a lot of things that needed to be done, things that needed to be said, people that I needed to talk to, songs I needed to practice, the sermon I needed to preach (and keep to 15 minutes!) and I thought 'Wo! Slow down Lord! I can't keep up!"
This morning we had the privilege of welcoming Barry and Ann into membership of our church. Now to some this may sound a little strange that churches should have some of formal membership. Well we, in the Baptist tradition follow the teachings of the first church where 'they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship'(Acts 2:42). It is a sign of commitment between individuals and the church fellowship to support one another as we serve the Lord in our community.
Some people tend to drift from one church to the next and don't seem to put roots down where they can grow in knowledge of God and in fellowship with other Christians. This is a real shame because there are so many benefits from being in a loving church family where you are supported, encouraged, taught and loved. Most people who come to SBC find it a welcoming church and a very loving one - not just a superficial shake of the hand and the usual pleasantries, but an authentic caring and love for the person no matter what their background. I am pleased to say that these were just a few of the things that drew Barry and Ann to us.
After the full service this morning, (which over-ran to 12:10pm as was pointed out to me
by my son, Nathan), and time for lunch it was out again to prepare for 'Praise The Lord' This is an ecumenical praise service held in the local junior school where Christians gather to praise God, here His word, receive ministry and generally have a great time of fellowship together. We started packing the PA, amplifiers and instruments at 3:30pm for a 6:30pm start, so we just had enough time to set up, sound check and pray before everyone arrived!.
Revd Richard Deimel brought God's word from the letter to the Ephesians and reminded us that with Christ there are no denominations and that we are all united by the Holy Spirit. It was great to be in a room full of brothers and sister in Christ from different churches and backgrounds all praising God together.
I finally arrived home at 8:30pm tonight gagging for a cup of tea and something to eat (although I could probably go without food for a few days and you wouldn't know!) and a quiet reflection on how great our God is! It has been a very tiring day, and I shall sleep well tonight, but I thank God for all the people I have seen blessed by God today in so many ways. It is well worth the effort to be a part of what God is doing in our community.
Sleep well!
Pastor Pete
This morning we had the privilege of welcoming Barry and Ann into membership of our church. Now to some this may sound a little strange that churches should have some of formal membership. Well we, in the Baptist tradition follow the teachings of the first church where 'they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship'(Acts 2:42). It is a sign of commitment between individuals and the church fellowship to support one another as we serve the Lord in our community.
Some people tend to drift from one church to the next and don't seem to put roots down where they can grow in knowledge of God and in fellowship with other Christians. This is a real shame because there are so many benefits from being in a loving church family where you are supported, encouraged, taught and loved. Most people who come to SBC find it a welcoming church and a very loving one - not just a superficial shake of the hand and the usual pleasantries, but an authentic caring and love for the person no matter what their background. I am pleased to say that these were just a few of the things that drew Barry and Ann to us.
After the full service this morning, (which over-ran to 12:10pm as was pointed out to me
by my son, Nathan), and time for lunch it was out again to prepare for 'Praise The Lord' This is an ecumenical praise service held in the local junior school where Christians gather to praise God, here His word, receive ministry and generally have a great time of fellowship together. We started packing the PA, amplifiers and instruments at 3:30pm for a 6:30pm start, so we just had enough time to set up, sound check and pray before everyone arrived!.
Revd Richard Deimel brought God's word from the letter to the Ephesians and reminded us that with Christ there are no denominations and that we are all united by the Holy Spirit. It was great to be in a room full of brothers and sister in Christ from different churches and backgrounds all praising God together.
I finally arrived home at 8:30pm tonight gagging for a cup of tea and something to eat (although I could probably go without food for a few days and you wouldn't know!) and a quiet reflection on how great our God is! It has been a very tiring day, and I shall sleep well tonight, but I thank God for all the people I have seen blessed by God today in so many ways. It is well worth the effort to be a part of what God is doing in our community.
Sleep well!
Pastor Pete
31 August 2007
That was a week that was!
It's been over a week since my last posting, and boy, what a week it has been! It sometimes can be overwhelming when you consider all the events, but when you look back, you can see how God has been there all along and has intervened when He has felt it necessary.
Since the end of New Wine, we as a church, and the Brookes household, seem to have gone through so much with recent bereavements, illnesses, relationship issues, and a few other pastoral concerns all thrown in! It seems that whilst we have been at New Wine, a backlog has been building, and now it has all been let loose!
Each day, someone has called with bad news or problems that need prayer and support, and for some reason, it seems a lot more than usual. On the other hand, the last two Sunday services have brought more visitors to the church who are truly seeking God and what He wants for their lives, with a result of three people seeking baptism!
I am so grateful to God that it is in His strength that we go on and not our own, and as long as we keep Him clearly in our focus, we find strength to deal with the next phone call, or door bell ring, or pastoral visit. I truly would have given up a long time ago if I tried to do it in my own strength.
Psalm 28:7 says The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
I can testify to that!
Pastor Pete
Since the end of New Wine, we as a church, and the Brookes household, seem to have gone through so much with recent bereavements, illnesses, relationship issues, and a few other pastoral concerns all thrown in! It seems that whilst we have been at New Wine, a backlog has been building, and now it has all been let loose!
Each day, someone has called with bad news or problems that need prayer and support, and for some reason, it seems a lot more than usual. On the other hand, the last two Sunday services have brought more visitors to the church who are truly seeking God and what He wants for their lives, with a result of three people seeking baptism!
I am so grateful to God that it is in His strength that we go on and not our own, and as long as we keep Him clearly in our focus, we find strength to deal with the next phone call, or door bell ring, or pastoral visit. I truly would have given up a long time ago if I tried to do it in my own strength.
Psalm 28:7 says The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
I can testify to that!
Pastor Pete
22 August 2007
A lifetime ambition!
One of my interests, is flying a microlight! I have always wanted to fly ever since I was a little four year old boy, and I dreamt of becoming a pilot, however, that dream was shattered when, at the age of 16, I went to RAF Biggin Hill for advanced aircrew selection. I was just one of a selection of 30 boys who were turned down that day. It was not an easy journey home!
Anyway, to cut a long story short, I had the time and money to learn to fly in 1995 and went to Long Marston Airfield in Warwickshire, UK to start my training. It was great fun! I learned in a Cyclone AX3 3-axis microlight and got my license in 1996. (http://www.bmaa.org/)
It is one of those things you have to experience to appreciate. The freedom of the skies, the view, the perspective you get on the world and life in general. When flying, you have to concentrate 100% on what you are doing and where you are going, and that tends to empty your mind of all the other stuff that fills your thoughts. I always seem to sleep better after a bimble in the skies!
I thank God that He has given me the money, the time and the skill to learn and achieve one of my lifetime ambitions. It's just one of the many blessings He has given me and I will enjoy it as long as I have it!
18 August 2007
A light that will never fade!
As we were packing to return from New Wine last week, my wife, Kim, received a phone call to tell her that her uncle, Ray, had died. We knew he had been admitted into hospital the week before for tests, but this came as quite a shock. Indeed, during the week, Kim felt led to send a card to him in hospital, and the thought of him dying couldn't have been further from our minds.
I have to say that this news brought us down with a bang after such a week of teaching and ministry, and sometimes you question God's timing! But there is never a good time for this type of news, and in some respects, with the closeness of God throughout this week, perhaps in some way this 'softened the blow'.
Ray was a cheerful chap who liked rising early in the morning to take a walk, long before the rest of us stirred. Whilst he was over in the UK, I had the priviledge of sharing some of those walks with him. We would talk about all sorts of things including our faith in the Lord Jesus. He will be sadly missed, but we also celebrate the light he brought into our lives which seem richer for having known him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunty Flo, Steven, Andrew, Karen and Denise at this time. You may be thousands of miles away, but we are with you!
Ray knew Jesus Christ as his saviour, so we celebrate the fact that he is now with the Lord and we will see him again when we get there!
Pastor Pete
I have to say that this news brought us down with a bang after such a week of teaching and ministry, and sometimes you question God's timing! But there is never a good time for this type of news, and in some respects, with the closeness of God throughout this week, perhaps in some way this 'softened the blow'.
Ray was a cheerful chap who liked rising early in the morning to take a walk, long before the rest of us stirred. Whilst he was over in the UK, I had the priviledge of sharing some of those walks with him. We would talk about all sorts of things including our faith in the Lord Jesus. He will be sadly missed, but we also celebrate the light he brought into our lives which seem richer for having known him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Aunty Flo, Steven, Andrew, Karen and Denise at this time. You may be thousands of miles away, but we are with you!
Ray knew Jesus Christ as his saviour, so we celebrate the fact that he is now with the Lord and we will see him again when we get there!
Pastor Pete
17 August 2007
Can you hear Him?
One of the questions I am asked most as a pastor is "How can I hear God speaking to me?" It seems that a lot of people have the desire to listen to God but don't know how to go about it. God speaks to different people in different ways.
For some, God speaks clearly through His word, the Bible. For others, it can be through dreams or visions; for others, it is through an impression on the heart - a sort of knowing; for others, it is through the counsel of other Christians; and for some it can be a combination of some or all of these and perhaps more ways! God usually speaks to us in a way that is clear to us, the only thing I have noticed is that it is usually in a 'still, small voice' meaning that we have to empty our minds of all those things that would distract us from Him, and focus on Him.
So for the Lord to speak to us through His word, we need to read the Bible regularly and pray so we build up more knowledge of Him. For those of us who have dreams/visions/impressions, we need to focus on God through prayer and worship to ensure that we are on the right track. For those of us who listen to the counsel of Christians, we need to be in fellowship with them, in other words we need to build brotherly relationships with them.
All this to say that the Lord will speak to us if we only listen, but don't expect Him to shout over the noise of our social or work lives. As I have mentioned before in my blogs, God is a gentlemen and will not 'butt in' where He is not wanted. But if you find a quiet time and place to pray to Him, He will talk to you.
Try it out and see!
Pastor Pete.
For some, God speaks clearly through His word, the Bible. For others, it can be through dreams or visions; for others, it is through an impression on the heart - a sort of knowing; for others, it is through the counsel of other Christians; and for some it can be a combination of some or all of these and perhaps more ways! God usually speaks to us in a way that is clear to us, the only thing I have noticed is that it is usually in a 'still, small voice' meaning that we have to empty our minds of all those things that would distract us from Him, and focus on Him.
So for the Lord to speak to us through His word, we need to read the Bible regularly and pray so we build up more knowledge of Him. For those of us who have dreams/visions/impressions, we need to focus on God through prayer and worship to ensure that we are on the right track. For those of us who listen to the counsel of Christians, we need to be in fellowship with them, in other words we need to build brotherly relationships with them.
All this to say that the Lord will speak to us if we only listen, but don't expect Him to shout over the noise of our social or work lives. As I have mentioned before in my blogs, God is a gentlemen and will not 'butt in' where He is not wanted. But if you find a quiet time and place to pray to Him, He will talk to you.
Try it out and see!
Pastor Pete.
13 August 2007
New Wine - The end of a great week!
I have to say that I was totally exhausted as I packed up on Sunday morning. It was a great week with fellowship, teaching, worship and ministry, but now I need some time to recover! And just like Jesus retreated to a quiet place to pray, that is going to be my next task.
The talk around the campsite on Saturday evening was fascinating as people shared their experiences of the week. God certainly spoke into a number of situations resulting in direction and freedom from past hurts or habits. The main challenge now is to remember what God has done through the week as it is easy to fall back into the usual routine of life and forget the promises received.
I received confirmation from God on a number of things that I have been praying over for the last few months. There was no miraculous 'parting of the sea' experience, but there was a closeness of the presence of God to affirm His love for me, and some powerful messages from some of the speakers.
I'm already planning next year's trip to New Wine!
Pastor Pete.
The talk around the campsite on Saturday evening was fascinating as people shared their experiences of the week. God certainly spoke into a number of situations resulting in direction and freedom from past hurts or habits. The main challenge now is to remember what God has done through the week as it is easy to fall back into the usual routine of life and forget the promises received.I received confirmation from God on a number of things that I have been praying over for the last few months. There was no miraculous 'parting of the sea' experience, but there was a closeness of the presence of God to affirm His love for me, and some powerful messages from some of the speakers.
Some other highlights of the week? Mike Pilavachi and his straight talk, Jonathan Viera for his singing and entertainment, Trent Vineyard for their spirit-led worship, and gate-crashing Martin Lazell's rehearsal!
Looking through the photos and videos taken during the week, there is no doubt that a lot of folk had fun as well as fellowship. I also seem to be £2.43 up after fetching the chinese 'take-away' on Saturday night for the 'village'!I'm already planning next year's trip to New Wine!
Pastor Pete.
10 August 2007
New Wine - Friday 10th August
I had the opportunity of listening to Mike Pilavachi reflecting on John Wimber:10 years on. In his usual relaxed style he reviewed some of the value that John Wimber stood by and looked at where we are today. He brought out some interesting views on how the 'church' has moved on over the last ten years and have forgotten some of the point raised by Wimber.
One interesting point was the perceived celebrity status we give to those individuals who seem to have a special annointing in some form of ministry. Mike pointed out that they do not have a special power or spirituality, but are purely obedient to what God is asking them to do, and that we all are able to share in the work of God if only we listen to what He is doing, and what He is calling us to do.
We have seem to have lost our way on this as we are quite prepared to allow 'celebrity' speakers to preach the gospel and we delegate this responsiblity to them instead of taking an individual response to the Great Commission, where we are ALL called to preach the gospel.
We are quiet happy in being 'ministered to' in our churches and are less comfortable to 'go into all nations' or communities to minister to those around us. The role of pastors and teachers is to prepare the church to go into the world and preach the gospel. We seem to have converted the church into a spiritual club where we get our fix and allow God to speak to us, as long as we don't have to go and tell anyone outside the church walls.
Come on church, we are the world's last hope of salvation!
Pastor Pete.
09 August 2007
New Wine - Tuesday 7th August
Another challenging day here at New Wine and God speaking to many of our contingent.
One of the reasons that God tends to speak to individuals at events like this is because they have set aside this time for God expecting Him to speak! How many times in our busy lives do we actually set aside time for God? In our usual routine, we are driven by the schedules in our diaries and find it difficult to set time aside to meet God. We get in to our routine and rush between the events, and all the things we have to achieve in the week, and if God is luck, really lucky, we give him an hour or so on a Sunday morning, and expect Him to get a week's worth of conversation to us in that time, and when He doesn't WE get disappointed!!
Jesus' example to us is that he spent time alone to converse with God many times each day! Before any time of ministry, he would go to a quiet place to pray. After ministry, he would go to a quiet place to pray!! If the Son of the most High God needs time to pray to his Father, how much more should we need this??
Well, I am off now to go and spend some more time with Him!!
God bless
Pastor Pete.
06 August 2007
New Wine Sunday 5th - The Arrival
What a scorcher!!
Safely arrived at New Wine in Shepton Mallet and the hot weather arrived with us! Setting up tents and awnings in 28 degrees C was challenging, but our Village Host, Andrew and his wife, Vanice, kept us going with help and refreshments.
The New Wine programme is packed with interesting seminars, the evening worship being led by Trinity Cheltenham and Trent Vineyard, so we are in for a treat!
Tonight, we heard about the story of Zacheus who climed a tree to see Jesus. He was a tax collector, and not the most liked person in the community. Yet, he wanted to see Jesus so much, that he climbed a tree to see him. Jesus noticed Zacheus and met with him and brought him salvation.
Sometimes we have to do things that seem a little foolish to others and yet God responds. If Zacheus had not climbed the tree, he may never have seen or met Jesus, and received salvation.
We must remember that God's ways are not our ways, and God moves in the spiritual as well as the natural world, and people who don't 'know' the Holy Spirit, don't understand spiritual things. And so when Christians pray to an invisible God, the world sees that as a foolish thing to do because they see no evidence of that God.
When the Holy Spirit falls upon us, and we weep, or perhaps laugh, or perhaps 'fall to the ground' non-Christians would see this as a foolish thing, and yet, at these times, our creator God is ministering to His creation.
Don't be afraid to look 'foolish' for God, because he will prepare you for an eternity with Him.
May God be with you.
Pastor Pete
03 August 2007
Preparation!
I don't know about you, but I seem to spend most of my time in preparation! I may be preparing a sermon, perparing a service, preparing a diary of events, preparing for a holiday ... it just seems that every day I am preparing for something!
Today, as I write this, I am PREPARING to go to the New Wine summer conference at Shepton Mallet, UK, for a week's gathering with another 14,000 Christians to receive some wholesome teaching and praise God! Now there are two types of preparation I am having to do:- the first is the practical - shopping for various items, packing the caravan, making sure I have enough batteries for those all important electrical items - torches, I-Pod, camera, etc., and then there is the other sort of preparation ... the spiritual one!
Now it is true that you can encounter God without any preparation at all! I am reminded of Moses who was tending to his sheep when he encountered God manifest through the burning bush, but there are some encounters that you do need to prepare for!
In Matthew, chapter 25, Jesus told a parable of ten virgins - five were prepared to meet the bridgegroom, and five were not. When the bridgegroom arrived, those that were prepared went in with him to the wedding banquet. The five that were not prepared missed the opportunity.
This parable talk of Jesus' second coming and that none of us knows when that will be, but we have to be prepared because He could come any moment.
What do we need to do to be prepared? To acknowledge that we have done wrong things against God and others, to say sorry to God, and to turn away from that way of life, and accept the forgiveness and assurance that He freely offers when we do this!
Do you know, it is an incredibly liberating thing to 'get it off your chest' and to confess these things to God. They may be secrets that we have buried from the past, guilt and shame we have carried for years, resentment and bitterness against family, friends or colleagues. When you confess it to God and ask for His forgiveness, a heavy burden is lifted from you! I don't think these words can express the relief and joy that you can experience, but hopefully you will get the idea!
Our God is a loving father, not like some physical fathers we have heard of or know, but one that is always there, always loving, always forgiving and always wanting the best for us, and He wants you to experience His love and joy in your life. Just follow these steps and then follow in Jesus' footsteps and you WILL experience it!
Now contrary to popular belief, I am not perfect and I am still making mistakes, making wrong choices, and I know sometimes I am far less than what God wants me to be, but I know that I can come to Him with my failures and my weaknesses, and He can turn them into His opportunities! Our loving heavenly Father teaches us everyday through His word, the Bible, and through our time with Him and make us better people for His glory.
As I prepare for New Wine, a week out of my normal routine and set aside for God to speak to me, I know that as I prepare myself practically and spiritually, God will draw near to me and change me for the better. I know that when I put Him first in my life, good things happen! He doesn't promise that every day will be a good one, and hard times may come my way, but He DOES promise to be with me every step of the way!
Won't you let Him walk with you today?
God bless!
Pete.
Today, as I write this, I am PREPARING to go to the New Wine summer conference at Shepton Mallet, UK, for a week's gathering with another 14,000 Christians to receive some wholesome teaching and praise God! Now there are two types of preparation I am having to do:- the first is the practical - shopping for various items, packing the caravan, making sure I have enough batteries for those all important electrical items - torches, I-Pod, camera, etc., and then there is the other sort of preparation ... the spiritual one!
Now it is true that you can encounter God without any preparation at all! I am reminded of Moses who was tending to his sheep when he encountered God manifest through the burning bush, but there are some encounters that you do need to prepare for!
In Matthew, chapter 25, Jesus told a parable of ten virgins - five were prepared to meet the bridgegroom, and five were not. When the bridgegroom arrived, those that were prepared went in with him to the wedding banquet. The five that were not prepared missed the opportunity.
This parable talk of Jesus' second coming and that none of us knows when that will be, but we have to be prepared because He could come any moment.
What do we need to do to be prepared? To acknowledge that we have done wrong things against God and others, to say sorry to God, and to turn away from that way of life, and accept the forgiveness and assurance that He freely offers when we do this!
Do you know, it is an incredibly liberating thing to 'get it off your chest' and to confess these things to God. They may be secrets that we have buried from the past, guilt and shame we have carried for years, resentment and bitterness against family, friends or colleagues. When you confess it to God and ask for His forgiveness, a heavy burden is lifted from you! I don't think these words can express the relief and joy that you can experience, but hopefully you will get the idea!
Our God is a loving father, not like some physical fathers we have heard of or know, but one that is always there, always loving, always forgiving and always wanting the best for us, and He wants you to experience His love and joy in your life. Just follow these steps and then follow in Jesus' footsteps and you WILL experience it!
Now contrary to popular belief, I am not perfect and I am still making mistakes, making wrong choices, and I know sometimes I am far less than what God wants me to be, but I know that I can come to Him with my failures and my weaknesses, and He can turn them into His opportunities! Our loving heavenly Father teaches us everyday through His word, the Bible, and through our time with Him and make us better people for His glory.
As I prepare for New Wine, a week out of my normal routine and set aside for God to speak to me, I know that as I prepare myself practically and spiritually, God will draw near to me and change me for the better. I know that when I put Him first in my life, good things happen! He doesn't promise that every day will be a good one, and hard times may come my way, but He DOES promise to be with me every step of the way!
Won't you let Him walk with you today?
God bless!
Pete.
23 July 2007
The Power of Prayer
Sometimes I am surprised, even amazed, at how God answers prayer. The sceptics say that it is purely coincidence and can be explained away with science or other 'logical' things, but in my experience there are many more coincidences when you pray!
I have experienced many answers to prayer and sometimes there have been no answers! Does this mean that God is some kind of sadistic person who chooses to play 'hide and seek' when we pray?
I believe that the God who is all seeing, all knowing, knows what is better for us than we do, and so sometimes he decides not to answer a particular prayer! Sometimes, he does answer, but in his timing, not ours. Just because he doesn't answer, it doesn't mean he is not there!
Just as a parent teaches a child to walk by letting go for the first few steps, God sometimes remains silent for a few moments, whilst we take our first faith steps, and as our faith is an ongoing journey, we find ourselves taking more and more steps with moments of silence from God.
But he has promised never to leave us or forsake us, and so we should not be afraid of the silent moments, because we know that he is right by us to catch us if we stumble!
If you are feeling frustrated, disappointed because it seems God is not listening to your prayer, be encouraged that he is always their because he loves you. He is there to catch you when you are falling, and he will not leave you no forsake you.
Trust him!
I have experienced many answers to prayer and sometimes there have been no answers! Does this mean that God is some kind of sadistic person who chooses to play 'hide and seek' when we pray?
I believe that the God who is all seeing, all knowing, knows what is better for us than we do, and so sometimes he decides not to answer a particular prayer! Sometimes, he does answer, but in his timing, not ours. Just because he doesn't answer, it doesn't mean he is not there!
Just as a parent teaches a child to walk by letting go for the first few steps, God sometimes remains silent for a few moments, whilst we take our first faith steps, and as our faith is an ongoing journey, we find ourselves taking more and more steps with moments of silence from God.
But he has promised never to leave us or forsake us, and so we should not be afraid of the silent moments, because we know that he is right by us to catch us if we stumble!
If you are feeling frustrated, disappointed because it seems God is not listening to your prayer, be encouraged that he is always their because he loves you. He is there to catch you when you are falling, and he will not leave you no forsake you.
Trust him!
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