Couldn't sleep and decided to attack this project that I decided to long ago, as I know next year may have me back in missions then I may not have access to free internet or a laptop....
So as you all can see I've updated the look of my Facebook group and blog http://chandresjourney.blogspot.com. I've changed the name of the Facebook group cause somehow Chandré's Journey matches the heart of this group better than Support me (Chandre) on My Mission Endeavours.I am on a journey of following Jesus, and you are already supporting me by reading, encouraging, sharing your life with me too, praying, helping and contributing.
God didn't say to me You are a missionary. But he did say follow me? I know my giftings, I know my desires, but I don't exactly yet know the end destination. At times it's hard, at times I am denial, or stubborn, and at times struggle with the same old issues everyone else struggles with, sometimes even worse :) But I have seen that I am an all or nothing person and even when I fall, for me the choice is only Follow God or at least try to, or live without God. It's hard for me to nurse sin yet follow God. Thank God for the friends, family and Strong people in the Lord who encourage me to greater things even when my life looked like "gemors" - rubbish! But there has to be more, so we get up dust ourselves off, lift ourselves up and follow God. I have to have hope that one day I will see my breakthrough, one day I will fully reflect the life God is calling me to. Like David says : Psalm 27:13 I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. There are days that it looks bleak, that I struggle to get up, but God is bigger than me and I will continue looking to author and perfector of our faith.
God bless you all. Remember if you wanna know more, just mail me or inbox me. If you need prayer or someone to talk to, ditto. If you wanna partner with me, ditto :)
Just to end off, Life is tough. Let's be honest, Just when you think you getting somewhere, life, the devil, circumstances, your own weaknesses can catch you off guard. But I have to believe God is true to his word, his promises and faithful even when I'm not. I have to believe that he will make all things work together for the good of those who love him, I have to believe even when everyone else has given up on us, that he will never leave us nor forsake us, and even when I do struggle with believing, that God's ways are higher than my ways and that this is journey and he who has called us is faithful!
1 Thessalonians 5:23 -24
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
God bless you :)
Chan
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Following God, both scary and extremely rewarding...
God has called me to follow him. It's as simple as that for me, Jesus said follow me, stay close and follow me. And I did, and at first I realised the cost, going further away from friends, and loved ones, and home, and comfort, and coke, and similiar cultured people who "get" me. But I also realised the peace, the tiredness that disappeared, the joy in waking up, the heart that wants to intercede, not forcing myself to have quiet time, but God actually becoming my best friend and first option to run to in a strange place, I grew, my dreams grew, provision came, new family came, situations with people resolved correctly as God was first so learning to trust even in the small things,the "kleintjies", the big things that seemed to break my heart, even those God looked after. Learnt alot in those months.
Then I came home. And home has been challenging, cause home and city life holds routines, and rhythms and deadlines and intentions that are never realised. Everything else is more important, there is always somewhere else people need to be, and I get/got caught up in that too. But I said God, I need to find you here in my city, in the same way I found you elsewhere, I don't want my walk with you to be dependant on a place, but even here in the familiar, in the old hurts, challenges and sins, I need you, and I need to see that in work. And God came through... I found people who I knew but now found out knew things about them, and learnt and built deeper. I found an awesome cell, which was big prayer matter for me, if I was going to be here, I needed to be around similiar minded people, who firstly excude God in their conversations in their priorities yet are real, ordinary people and are open about their lives and struggles too.
Then sin creeped in, from the strangest of places, well like new american friends say "sin piggyback rides in on the back of righteousness..." You may be doing something righteous, or be with people who were always a blessing to you and you to them, but sin looks away to creep in even in the midst of a righteous thing that is happening. And for a while I became like the prodigal son, choosing to enjoy the "world", well as far as one who has tasted true life can enjoy the world. It all started with good intention, but in the end like Heb 12 says I got entangled in the sin that so easily entangles. Thankfully God was right there in the midst of it, even in the people that I was surrounded with and at some point I grabbed at the light and called out for help, to God and to the people I knew who would speak truth in my life.
Since then, God has surprised me, confirmed desires, blessed me and even provided for me. It hasn't been easy, I have been so close to giving up, if it wasn't for God's grace, I have lost things I held dear to my heart, I have had to deal with my own disappointment, my own hardheartedness, my fears, my losses, but in the midst, God has been smiling, and faithful, despite all the BUT Lord, or the teachings and comments people give, God has knelt down and held out his hand and just repeated the words he has spoken to me before... Come, follow me, you are mine, I am yours... I am not saying there are no consequences to sin, of course there are. But I am so aware of the sun even behind the grey clouds. I am so aware of this strength rising in my heart, to face things that normally I would be falling apart to face. I am so aware of the His tangible grace on my life in this season. He is a redeemer. There are still mindboggling situations. There are still relationships in my life that I have no idea are coming or going or why? But I know, God is taking care of that and I just need to follow him and not try to figure out or fix things that I have given to him to fix. Super hard at times and realising the control freak in me, but embracing this season of learning to TRUST GOD with all my heart and not lean on my own understanding... :) (prov 3).
The next step. Back to missions. God said Follow me, he didn't say go to India, Timbaktu, be a missionary, be in IT. For now when I left in Sep he said Psalm 45, leave your father and your mother's house, the king is entralled by your beauty, honour him for He is your Lord. Also He said follow me. In missions he said stay close.I realise that as I seek him,the rest becomes clear, and that sometimes you need to step out of the boat. You cannot expect God's will for you to be dropping on ur lap, you need to get on ur knees and when he speaks you need to follow him. Fortunately I have found God's grace to accompany his word. He hasn't jerked me out of circumstances and in going to JBay the first time he had made it super clear that i needed to go. I know that this time round, God will lead me too and with his leading also comes his peace if I'm doing the right thing...
So back to the title of ths note. Following God, both scary and extremely rewarding. When I go, I know I am once again stepping physically away from my lifelong and dear friends, my family, my parents, my home, my CAPE TOWN, everything that makes sense. I also may not have a place to come back to, I am in my 30's now so cannot expect parent to support me forever. This is scary. Sometimes you wan't that normaly routine life, job, home, extra classes, braais on weekends, new car in 2 years, flat, house, steps that everyone around you is taking, BUT, you also know that when you tried to live that life, it wasn't you. In IT I felt like Cinderella's step sisters, with the glass shoe on my foot, one day someone would spot that I don't fully belong here. It's not that I am saying that it's wrong to be in IT, or whatever market place you are in. God has called you to be there, he has put that desire for business, academics, science, art in your heart. For me he has given a different call, to follow, this following may take me right back to the start, to the business world, I don't know ;) lol...But I know I will go nowhere, if I don't do the next step that is set before me. Destiny is calling :) Really this is not just some nice words put together, BUT I really am scared of the unknown, the only thing that motivates me is the call of God, the peace in my heart, on Alicia keys cd this quote aptly describes how I feel at times, - "And the day came when the risk it took to remain tightly closed in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to bloom. This is the element of freedom.” Doing what everyone else does because I am afraid to do what I am called to do is becoming more painful than stepping out and doing what I'm called to do.
So I don't have all the answers just yet, But it will come. So watch this space... And keep me in your prayers. Like that song says "I'll pray for you, You pray for me, I love you, I need you to survive". Let's keep praying, lets keep spurring one another on towards greatness. Lets keep following God, on whatever direction he is calling us to go. And lets keep looking to him for those answers ;)
Chan
Then I came home. And home has been challenging, cause home and city life holds routines, and rhythms and deadlines and intentions that are never realised. Everything else is more important, there is always somewhere else people need to be, and I get/got caught up in that too. But I said God, I need to find you here in my city, in the same way I found you elsewhere, I don't want my walk with you to be dependant on a place, but even here in the familiar, in the old hurts, challenges and sins, I need you, and I need to see that in work. And God came through... I found people who I knew but now found out knew things about them, and learnt and built deeper. I found an awesome cell, which was big prayer matter for me, if I was going to be here, I needed to be around similiar minded people, who firstly excude God in their conversations in their priorities yet are real, ordinary people and are open about their lives and struggles too.
Then sin creeped in, from the strangest of places, well like new american friends say "sin piggyback rides in on the back of righteousness..." You may be doing something righteous, or be with people who were always a blessing to you and you to them, but sin looks away to creep in even in the midst of a righteous thing that is happening. And for a while I became like the prodigal son, choosing to enjoy the "world", well as far as one who has tasted true life can enjoy the world. It all started with good intention, but in the end like Heb 12 says I got entangled in the sin that so easily entangles. Thankfully God was right there in the midst of it, even in the people that I was surrounded with and at some point I grabbed at the light and called out for help, to God and to the people I knew who would speak truth in my life.
Since then, God has surprised me, confirmed desires, blessed me and even provided for me. It hasn't been easy, I have been so close to giving up, if it wasn't for God's grace, I have lost things I held dear to my heart, I have had to deal with my own disappointment, my own hardheartedness, my fears, my losses, but in the midst, God has been smiling, and faithful, despite all the BUT Lord, or the teachings and comments people give, God has knelt down and held out his hand and just repeated the words he has spoken to me before... Come, follow me, you are mine, I am yours... I am not saying there are no consequences to sin, of course there are. But I am so aware of the sun even behind the grey clouds. I am so aware of this strength rising in my heart, to face things that normally I would be falling apart to face. I am so aware of the His tangible grace on my life in this season. He is a redeemer. There are still mindboggling situations. There are still relationships in my life that I have no idea are coming or going or why? But I know, God is taking care of that and I just need to follow him and not try to figure out or fix things that I have given to him to fix. Super hard at times and realising the control freak in me, but embracing this season of learning to TRUST GOD with all my heart and not lean on my own understanding... :) (prov 3).
The next step. Back to missions. God said Follow me, he didn't say go to India, Timbaktu, be a missionary, be in IT. For now when I left in Sep he said Psalm 45, leave your father and your mother's house, the king is entralled by your beauty, honour him for He is your Lord. Also He said follow me. In missions he said stay close.I realise that as I seek him,the rest becomes clear, and that sometimes you need to step out of the boat. You cannot expect God's will for you to be dropping on ur lap, you need to get on ur knees and when he speaks you need to follow him. Fortunately I have found God's grace to accompany his word. He hasn't jerked me out of circumstances and in going to JBay the first time he had made it super clear that i needed to go. I know that this time round, God will lead me too and with his leading also comes his peace if I'm doing the right thing...
So back to the title of ths note. Following God, both scary and extremely rewarding. When I go, I know I am once again stepping physically away from my lifelong and dear friends, my family, my parents, my home, my CAPE TOWN, everything that makes sense. I also may not have a place to come back to, I am in my 30's now so cannot expect parent to support me forever. This is scary. Sometimes you wan't that normaly routine life, job, home, extra classes, braais on weekends, new car in 2 years, flat, house, steps that everyone around you is taking, BUT, you also know that when you tried to live that life, it wasn't you. In IT I felt like Cinderella's step sisters, with the glass shoe on my foot, one day someone would spot that I don't fully belong here. It's not that I am saying that it's wrong to be in IT, or whatever market place you are in. God has called you to be there, he has put that desire for business, academics, science, art in your heart. For me he has given a different call, to follow, this following may take me right back to the start, to the business world, I don't know ;) lol...But I know I will go nowhere, if I don't do the next step that is set before me. Destiny is calling :) Really this is not just some nice words put together, BUT I really am scared of the unknown, the only thing that motivates me is the call of God, the peace in my heart, on Alicia keys cd this quote aptly describes how I feel at times, - "And the day came when the risk it took to remain tightly closed in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to bloom. This is the element of freedom.” Doing what everyone else does because I am afraid to do what I am called to do is becoming more painful than stepping out and doing what I'm called to do.
So I don't have all the answers just yet, But it will come. So watch this space... And keep me in your prayers. Like that song says "I'll pray for you, You pray for me, I love you, I need you to survive". Let's keep praying, lets keep spurring one another on towards greatness. Lets keep following God, on whatever direction he is calling us to go. And lets keep looking to him for those answers ;)
Chan
Thursday, April 1, 2010
FB: Latest Blog entry - Back...
Yep, I've been quiet, but at last I am ready to post something...
So I'm back. Honestly it hasn't been easy being back. I kinda expected things to be different because I've grown, only to find myself making the same mistakes, falling in the same traps, hurting in the same way, and then getting frustrated and disappointed that this is happening, cause my 6 months away was not an Act yet why am I struggling.
Fortunately sometime between coming home and now, God has been stirring to mind some lessons I learnt the hard way in my 6 months, and now its time to apply it in this environment. Also the meaning of a scripture I never really understood...
Matthew 11:12 (NIV)
12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.
Matthew 11:12 (NKJV)
12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.
...Finally makes sense. I've got to win it here...Even though I've grown and learnt somethings, it's almost like weapons, or tools that I've acquired and now I have got to win it back in my old environment, back where the struggle was. And by force. It doesn't come easy. This was a surprise to me, but as I am now beginning to apply what I learnt it is beginning to get easier...
So what was the major lessons I learnt:
1) Consider it Pure Joy when you face trials of many kinds... Endurance,Joy, Maturity. God matures me through the trials, don't despise the trials, thank God, he wouldnt allow it if he wasn't going to use it to grow me. It doesnt come easy but eventually you get it. Like been struggling with some relationships since being back. Today I finally prayed. Lord I surrender this situation to me, even though it hurts and I can't see a solution, and it seems like things never change, Lord I know you are in control and I choose to trust you, trust that you know more than me, trust that you are in control. And that you will show me the next step, despite what was said, or what happened, the battle is yours Lord.
2) Surrender to God. - covered a bit in point no.1. Stop trying to fix things, understand things, it's tiring, frustrating and can make you sick. Give it to God. Let him do what he does best, Trust Him, If you given it to him, it is in good hands.
3) Serve. You'll find as you do the above God starts to soften your heart to pray even for the people hurting you or see them in a different light. Begin to ask God how you can be a blessing to them, sometimes you may see an opportunity, sometimes the opportunity presents itself to you to help out or do something to the very person who broke your heart. That is a God moment...Serve.
4)Accept. a) Accept yourself,for who God has made you, with strengths and weaknesses...When You can say this is Me and God accepts me and so do I, you stop trying so hard to please others cause you know who you are, and their not liking you doesn't matter so much as before cause you are you. But when you don't accept yourself (or maybe you think you have,but really depend on others opinions alot more), everything others say makes you second guess or question yourself and people pick that up and even hurt you even more. But when you know who you are, you got your power back :) and even just relationships with others are easier cause you're not expecting so much from them (validation, approval,etc)...
b) Also Accept people for who they are...This also helps alot. Once you accept this person, this leader, is like that and thats who they are that is their weakness that is their strength and I accept them for who they are, it becomes easier too to relate and not be so judgemental. People will change on their own time, when God reveals it to them, if you told them once and they're still like that you either accept them or move on, but once you accept them, once you,as someone once preached, see the gold in them and not just the dust, it becomes so much easier. Yes that person swears, lies, gossips, is very rude,hurtful but that is just the dust, they are also there through the tough times, Loving God lots, etc... Hold on to the Gold. and you also not so surprised by the dust, when it comes cause you have accepted that person warts and all. but as long as I'm expecting that person not to have warts, everytime they do something wrong either you take it hard, or you become judgemental. And then you are sinning too.
I've seen when I let the wall up to protect myself from others who have hurt me, after a while I notice I am not having breakthrough with God, because the wall I build holds him out too. I know forgiving and trusting again isn't easy...with God's help you do eventually get there as you realise God is using this trial to strengthen and mature you, as you surrender your life, the situation, your emotions to God,as you pray for and/or serve the people that hurt you and as you accept yourself and them for who God made them... You eventually will get through...
Currently I am finding myself slowly go through this process and it really does get easier to handle. Not immediately even I am far from through, but I know God knows and I know that he is making me a mature, wiser person and a winner and lover of all people. And I know there is the potential inside me to do the right thing so I will get there. By His Grace, with him... Hope you have learnt something from this and if not life may eventually teach you it too :)
Love,
Chandré
So I'm back. Honestly it hasn't been easy being back. I kinda expected things to be different because I've grown, only to find myself making the same mistakes, falling in the same traps, hurting in the same way, and then getting frustrated and disappointed that this is happening, cause my 6 months away was not an Act yet why am I struggling.
Fortunately sometime between coming home and now, God has been stirring to mind some lessons I learnt the hard way in my 6 months, and now its time to apply it in this environment. Also the meaning of a scripture I never really understood...
Matthew 11:12 (NIV)
12From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.
Matthew 11:12 (NKJV)
12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.
...Finally makes sense. I've got to win it here...Even though I've grown and learnt somethings, it's almost like weapons, or tools that I've acquired and now I have got to win it back in my old environment, back where the struggle was. And by force. It doesn't come easy. This was a surprise to me, but as I am now beginning to apply what I learnt it is beginning to get easier...
So what was the major lessons I learnt:
1) Consider it Pure Joy when you face trials of many kinds... Endurance,Joy, Maturity. God matures me through the trials, don't despise the trials, thank God, he wouldnt allow it if he wasn't going to use it to grow me. It doesnt come easy but eventually you get it. Like been struggling with some relationships since being back. Today I finally prayed. Lord I surrender this situation to me, even though it hurts and I can't see a solution, and it seems like things never change, Lord I know you are in control and I choose to trust you, trust that you know more than me, trust that you are in control. And that you will show me the next step, despite what was said, or what happened, the battle is yours Lord.
2) Surrender to God. - covered a bit in point no.1. Stop trying to fix things, understand things, it's tiring, frustrating and can make you sick. Give it to God. Let him do what he does best, Trust Him, If you given it to him, it is in good hands.
3) Serve. You'll find as you do the above God starts to soften your heart to pray even for the people hurting you or see them in a different light. Begin to ask God how you can be a blessing to them, sometimes you may see an opportunity, sometimes the opportunity presents itself to you to help out or do something to the very person who broke your heart. That is a God moment...Serve.
4)Accept. a) Accept yourself,for who God has made you, with strengths and weaknesses...When You can say this is Me and God accepts me and so do I, you stop trying so hard to please others cause you know who you are, and their not liking you doesn't matter so much as before cause you are you. But when you don't accept yourself (or maybe you think you have,but really depend on others opinions alot more), everything others say makes you second guess or question yourself and people pick that up and even hurt you even more. But when you know who you are, you got your power back :) and even just relationships with others are easier cause you're not expecting so much from them (validation, approval,etc)...
b) Also Accept people for who they are...This also helps alot. Once you accept this person, this leader, is like that and thats who they are that is their weakness that is their strength and I accept them for who they are, it becomes easier too to relate and not be so judgemental. People will change on their own time, when God reveals it to them, if you told them once and they're still like that you either accept them or move on, but once you accept them, once you,as someone once preached, see the gold in them and not just the dust, it becomes so much easier. Yes that person swears, lies, gossips, is very rude,hurtful but that is just the dust, they are also there through the tough times, Loving God lots, etc... Hold on to the Gold. and you also not so surprised by the dust, when it comes cause you have accepted that person warts and all. but as long as I'm expecting that person not to have warts, everytime they do something wrong either you take it hard, or you become judgemental. And then you are sinning too.
I've seen when I let the wall up to protect myself from others who have hurt me, after a while I notice I am not having breakthrough with God, because the wall I build holds him out too. I know forgiving and trusting again isn't easy...with God's help you do eventually get there as you realise God is using this trial to strengthen and mature you, as you surrender your life, the situation, your emotions to God,as you pray for and/or serve the people that hurt you and as you accept yourself and them for who God made them... You eventually will get through...
Currently I am finding myself slowly go through this process and it really does get easier to handle. Not immediately even I am far from through, but I know God knows and I know that he is making me a mature, wiser person and a winner and lover of all people. And I know there is the potential inside me to do the right thing so I will get there. By His Grace, with him... Hope you have learnt something from this and if not life may eventually teach you it too :)
Love,
Chandré
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
FB: Colesberg
1. Colesberg
Many long distance drivers should be familiar with stopping over at Shell Ultra City in Colesberg,yet seeing nothing but dryness,koppies,sheep farms.Contrary to popular belief,the farms in the area are like finding an oasis in a desert.We overnighted at one of 3 farms owned by this family and surprised by the beauty,the greenery,and luxury of the farm.The only problem was that because the farm stands empty most of the time bees have managed to make their home it the chimney.So walking carefully past can prevent an accident,but unfortunately one of our staff was stung twice in our overnight stay.Well,the good far outweighed the bad& the bee was long forgotten as we arrived at the main farm of this family for supper,a beautiful home an even more beautiful garden,with animals,including a springbok,then we discovered it...A trampoline! We asked if we could jump,went crazy!Then the farmer says,if he knew that enjoyed that,he would have told us to bring our bathers so we could swim as well.Then we realised our suitcases are still in the combi,got our costumes&all 9 of us swam including 2 who cudnt swim,1 with fear of water.We only went in for supp 9pm!Supper included lamb,delicious!& i tasted a prickly pear for the 1st time.They have a beautiful half moon tv room& i noticed a bird flying around like it's stuck in the house& mentioned it as it was strange that it's happening at night.Turns out that it's not a bird,it's a bat! We were invited to breakfast& another swim before leaving.Breakfast was oats,cereals,bacon,egg,sausage,and smoortjie!our overnight was an unexpected 5 star hotel.Also enjoyed hearing their story,they got saved 3 years ago at an Angus Buchan event&their whole lives turned around from believing that they are good because they attend church,fulfill all obligations but are dead on the inside to accepting Jesus as their lord and saviour and starting a ministry to farmers& farmworkers.We also got to encourage and pray for their workers....
Many long distance drivers should be familiar with stopping over at Shell Ultra City in Colesberg,yet seeing nothing but dryness,koppies,sheep farms.Contrary to popular belief,the farms in the area are like finding an oasis in a desert.We overnighted at one of 3 farms owned by this family and surprised by the beauty,the greenery,and luxury of the farm.The only problem was that because the farm stands empty most of the time bees have managed to make their home it the chimney.So walking carefully past can prevent an accident,but unfortunately one of our staff was stung twice in our overnight stay.Well,the good far outweighed the bad& the bee was long forgotten as we arrived at the main farm of this family for supper,a beautiful home an even more beautiful garden,with animals,including a springbok,then we discovered it...A trampoline! We asked if we could jump,went crazy!Then the farmer says,if he knew that enjoyed that,he would have told us to bring our bathers so we could swim as well.Then we realised our suitcases are still in the combi,got our costumes&all 9 of us swam including 2 who cudnt swim,1 with fear of water.We only went in for supp 9pm!Supper included lamb,delicious!& i tasted a prickly pear for the 1st time.They have a beautiful half moon tv room& i noticed a bird flying around like it's stuck in the house& mentioned it as it was strange that it's happening at night.Turns out that it's not a bird,it's a bat! We were invited to breakfast& another swim before leaving.Breakfast was oats,cereals,bacon,egg,sausage,and smoortjie!our overnight was an unexpected 5 star hotel.Also enjoyed hearing their story,they got saved 3 years ago at an Angus Buchan event&their whole lives turned around from believing that they are good because they attend church,fulfill all obligations but are dead on the inside to accepting Jesus as their lord and saviour and starting a ministry to farmers& farmworkers.We also got to encourage and pray for their workers....
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
FB: Heidelberg Update Part 4 (&Colesberg)
Had nearly completed this update yesterday,when battery went flat,and no signal,well to cut a long story short,an old school friend took me out to carnival city, pizza at italian restaurant,dessert and hot choc with cream,mmm...and a financial blessing with such a great msg with it...despite all the stuff,i really just also enjoyed being able to get out,and also chat to someone i relate too.I realised when i got back to flat,that God heard my prayer,even tho i thought perhaps its selfish,God heard and suprised me,I also trust God to return blessing to all that have blessed me.Thanks 4 availing yourselves to not only me but to God's purposes.
Seeing as I can include this now,our overnight was at an empty farm house,which was spacious& beautiful,but had bees living in the chimney,so one of our staff was stung twice in our time there.We were invited for supper on another farm,the ppl hosting us' farm,we got there,noticed the trampoline&started to jump,our host then said we could swim if had our bathers.We then swam till bout 8pm,then had supper.It was a sheep farmer,so both supper&breakfast included meat(Sausage with breakfast).Some swam morning as well and only left 11h30am.Our overnight in seemingly dry karoo colesberg turned out to be like staying at a hotel.once again an unexpected blessing.The farmer&his wife got saved when attending an angus buchan meeting,aint that cool! Love that God reaches all kinds of ppl in all sort of ways.We also ministered to workers on farm.
Currently on our way to PE to meet with leader&overnight at my friend Janine,thanks!then 2morro head to Plet till friday,a week in brandwag/mosselbay,then jbay for team debrief,before being big group in Patensie.
To all those reading this,pls keep praying for us:for strength,more of God's heart,favour,finances,unity,effectiveness in our purpose,personal victories,blessings for our families,Clarity for after DTS.Also pray about makin a contribution,as this is not just helping me,but team needs too.email me or call on 0826229848 for bankdetails.
Seeing as I can include this now,our overnight was at an empty farm house,which was spacious& beautiful,but had bees living in the chimney,so one of our staff was stung twice in our time there.We were invited for supper on another farm,the ppl hosting us' farm,we got there,noticed the trampoline&started to jump,our host then said we could swim if had our bathers.We then swam till bout 8pm,then had supper.It was a sheep farmer,so both supper&breakfast included meat(Sausage with breakfast).Some swam morning as well and only left 11h30am.Our overnight in seemingly dry karoo colesberg turned out to be like staying at a hotel.once again an unexpected blessing.The farmer&his wife got saved when attending an angus buchan meeting,aint that cool! Love that God reaches all kinds of ppl in all sort of ways.We also ministered to workers on farm.
Currently on our way to PE to meet with leader&overnight at my friend Janine,thanks!then 2morro head to Plet till friday,a week in brandwag/mosselbay,then jbay for team debrief,before being big group in Patensie.
To all those reading this,pls keep praying for us:for strength,more of God's heart,favour,finances,unity,effectiveness in our purpose,personal victories,blessings for our families,Clarity for after DTS.Also pray about makin a contribution,as this is not just helping me,but team needs too.email me or call on 0826229848 for bankdetails.
Monday, February 1, 2010
FB: Heidelberg Update Part 3
2. At the cross an exchange occurs,because that is where he took up our infirmities,carried our sorrows,his punishment at cross brings us peace,his wounds brings us healing.We need to come to cross,even daily,bring our hurts,offenses,struggles,sicknesses and there find our healing,joy,freedom,grace to forgive.etc.This divine exchange happens at the cross,is 61,Beauty for ashes,oil of joy,instead of mourning.
I'm so glad for this fresh revelation again of the cross,my life,my strength,my solutions are in what Jesus has done for me at the cross,whenever i see a cross now,it encourages me anew.
Another thing I have learnt by experience in heidelberg is seeing God come thru financially thru faithfulness in the little.In this two weeks I have received R1595 in various ways,and just for those who've given,u have no idea the timing.One night after a rebuke to team about finances and paying when we have, I prayed just before goin to bed God!I'm sorry 4 my unfaithfulness with money in past,but really don't have money,and have no idea where goin to get money,cause not goin to ask mom for more...My frustration,led to prayer,and next morn when woke up checked mail and found an e.mail from a canadian friend wanting to bless me.Timing,wow.once we did some fundraising,two of us for those who know the egg fundraiser,we made r200,in complex we staying at,no capital,it works.When i walked in my phone rang,my mom.I shared what i needed to tell her,but didn't mention airtime or money.She then asks me if i need.What a surprise.Then last night the cherry on cake.I have decided when get money to not hold on but pay outreach debt and trust God for needs,so basically may just buy air time as nb for me to connect with home,sponsors,etc. And tithe,but rest normally goes straight,although tempted to buy myself just one snack,or something,but this past week said no!cause wanna be faithful and win spirit of poverty in my life,eg. More debt back home. So i decide to pray God pls bless me with a cold drink or somethin,but...see update 4...
I'm so glad for this fresh revelation again of the cross,my life,my strength,my solutions are in what Jesus has done for me at the cross,whenever i see a cross now,it encourages me anew.
Another thing I have learnt by experience in heidelberg is seeing God come thru financially thru faithfulness in the little.In this two weeks I have received R1595 in various ways,and just for those who've given,u have no idea the timing.One night after a rebuke to team about finances and paying when we have, I prayed just before goin to bed God!I'm sorry 4 my unfaithfulness with money in past,but really don't have money,and have no idea where goin to get money,cause not goin to ask mom for more...My frustration,led to prayer,and next morn when woke up checked mail and found an e.mail from a canadian friend wanting to bless me.Timing,wow.once we did some fundraising,two of us for those who know the egg fundraiser,we made r200,in complex we staying at,no capital,it works.When i walked in my phone rang,my mom.I shared what i needed to tell her,but didn't mention airtime or money.She then asks me if i need.What a surprise.Then last night the cherry on cake.I have decided when get money to not hold on but pay outreach debt and trust God for needs,so basically may just buy air time as nb for me to connect with home,sponsors,etc. And tithe,but rest normally goes straight,although tempted to buy myself just one snack,or something,but this past week said no!cause wanna be faithful and win spirit of poverty in my life,eg. More debt back home. So i decide to pray God pls bless me with a cold drink or somethin,but...see update 4...
FB: Heidelberg Update Part 2
Ministry wise,first week as said before was office work,and friday helped at 2 creches.i worked with 3-4 year olds, hence learning zulu/slang words like Haibo(No),Shoota Mina(take a photo of me),Woza lapha(Come here),Cama(wee wee,as in I want to wee wee),besides playing with kids,singing,etc.my main role was taking about 30 kids to bathroom.Learnt Cama when little boys tryin to run in,during girls time,and when i say haibo,they shout Cama.Definitely fun day,but i don't think i could do that everyday as a profession...all of us slept after that session.
Week 2 held schools ministry in Vosloorus/Boksburg and door to door in a location,and area near new life church,where Sis Lucy,pastor's wife and ex principal arranged ministry for us.We went to schools where windows so broken,yet kids lean out over broken glass to scream at us.At another school two highschools shared one building.Ministry in school was a blessing as kids listened attentively,had eyes wide open in plays,laughed and really listened during encouragements.I in particular encouraged them to have a real genuine friendship with God,not settle for less or what is point of christianity?really kids were a blessing to us too.was thinking at home some ideas for schools when home as kids are same everywhere,but because they don't get an opportunity to meet and mix with kids accross cultures judge on what they see and still maybe ignorant about.so have some ideas around creating platforms for them to meet and embrace eachother, In evening Maria did sessions with us which was trully transforming,and the cross has new meaning for me.We had to meditate on Isaiah 53 and Is61:1-4 and hear what God is speaking to us as individuals about it.and in conclusion learnt 1. The cross holds forgiveness for the murderer(because Jesus took his place,stood in gap but also healing for family that was hurt by murder. Both oppressor and oppressed only set free at cross,because there he bore our transgression and his wounds bring our peace and healing.
See part 3 next note
Week 2 held schools ministry in Vosloorus/Boksburg and door to door in a location,and area near new life church,where Sis Lucy,pastor's wife and ex principal arranged ministry for us.We went to schools where windows so broken,yet kids lean out over broken glass to scream at us.At another school two highschools shared one building.Ministry in school was a blessing as kids listened attentively,had eyes wide open in plays,laughed and really listened during encouragements.I in particular encouraged them to have a real genuine friendship with God,not settle for less or what is point of christianity?really kids were a blessing to us too.was thinking at home some ideas for schools when home as kids are same everywhere,but because they don't get an opportunity to meet and mix with kids accross cultures judge on what they see and still maybe ignorant about.so have some ideas around creating platforms for them to meet and embrace eachother, In evening Maria did sessions with us which was trully transforming,and the cross has new meaning for me.We had to meditate on Isaiah 53 and Is61:1-4 and hear what God is speaking to us as individuals about it.and in conclusion learnt 1. The cross holds forgiveness for the murderer(because Jesus took his place,stood in gap but also healing for family that was hurt by murder. Both oppressor and oppressed only set free at cross,because there he bore our transgression and his wounds bring our peace and healing.
See part 3 next note
FB:1 SA Town down,few more 2 go.Heidelberg Update.
Currently driving out of gauteng to overnight in colesburg,good time to update those followin my journey.
So the last two days in Swaziland was pretty hectic,but in hindsight,after all the work we did in swaziland,and the blessings ahead,the devil attempted to get at us and split team after such amazing times,but then we got to the home of Maria Dos Santos in Heidelberg,Gauteng.We came there,all at different places,me not ready to minister,but she felt in her spirit that we a good team and was glad to have us.Being back in normal city life,meant access to dvd's so alot were happy to watch movies in spare time.we stayed in 2 bedroom flat,with maria and her son,but our one married couple at maria's collegue Oom Fanie's home,the other married couple in her bedroom,maria and her son in his room,and the rest of us single ppl in lounge,boys on 2 couches,girls on matresses.It was a challenge,but also funny as in the morning we're teased about having snoring competitions,or all sorts of other sounds happen in night.fortunately all were mature and could handle proximity with no fights.Our school leader came down to meet with us as a team and just encourage us again.He started by singing I love you Lord,and presence of God came in.We had a braai,mmm Kristy's sour cream oven baked potatoes!and went for team building which involved movies at carnival city and sneaking photo's in gaming area as camera's not allowed.we did different interesting type of ministry,office work for mercy ministries,great organisation that facilitates biblical ethnic reconciliation workshops.Really great we did some of the material,and if anyone wants more info pls contact me.We attended Heidelberg Methodist church's youth cell,friday youth,prayer week and church,great church!and once again i am really grateful to mix with different churches for the bigger kingdom of God,and get to know my other "family" in various towns,cities,countries.
So the last two days in Swaziland was pretty hectic,but in hindsight,after all the work we did in swaziland,and the blessings ahead,the devil attempted to get at us and split team after such amazing times,but then we got to the home of Maria Dos Santos in Heidelberg,Gauteng.We came there,all at different places,me not ready to minister,but she felt in her spirit that we a good team and was glad to have us.Being back in normal city life,meant access to dvd's so alot were happy to watch movies in spare time.we stayed in 2 bedroom flat,with maria and her son,but our one married couple at maria's collegue Oom Fanie's home,the other married couple in her bedroom,maria and her son in his room,and the rest of us single ppl in lounge,boys on 2 couches,girls on matresses.It was a challenge,but also funny as in the morning we're teased about having snoring competitions,or all sorts of other sounds happen in night.fortunately all were mature and could handle proximity with no fights.Our school leader came down to meet with us as a team and just encourage us again.He started by singing I love you Lord,and presence of God came in.We had a braai,mmm Kristy's sour cream oven baked potatoes!and went for team building which involved movies at carnival city and sneaking photo's in gaming area as camera's not allowed.we did different interesting type of ministry,office work for mercy ministries,great organisation that facilitates biblical ethnic reconciliation workshops.Really great we did some of the material,and if anyone wants more info pls contact me.We attended Heidelberg Methodist church's youth cell,friday youth,prayer week and church,great church!and once again i am really grateful to mix with different churches for the bigger kingdom of God,and get to know my other "family" in various towns,cities,countries.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
FB: Swaziland Update :)
Hi all...
Update from Swaziland....
Airtime is super expensive here so I limited contact to just letting my mom know where I am and gave her my no. to contact me...
So far its been good! I have this problem of making everyplace I go to home,so everytime I leave it's been hard.
After Uitenhage the teams split in 3 and our team went to Swaziland with public transport. Lots of issues, e.g. at first not having our names on the bus, Joburg had so many street vendors and then the 4 hour taxi drive to Swaziland. From there we went to Swaziland YWAM base which is a beautiful property, a couple of houses converted into dorms, etc... with 2 dogs, 3 cats and a cow...Basically there we just did work duties, working on a floor that needed the glue removed and I am seeing that I am becoming so much more like my mother. When I had to pick up cow poop my reaction was, at least it's not smelling and someone has to do it...And this is preparation for my own farm one day :) If you know me well u'll know this wasnt me 4 months ago... Anyway pics and a longer update to follow. All I want to add is that though it was hard to be alone on Christmas, I was sitting in this most beautiful nature and then realised that God was giving one of my dreams to own a big property on a small holding in nature where the dogs run freely and kids etc...to me on Christmas and it was a christmas time with me and him... That was a blessing... New Years I fell asleep at 11:40 :) We found and killed a snake the last day... But longer update and pics will come hopefully in Joburg. That is if I get money again for such things, Still have 90% of my outreach fees left to pay but the money is coming in slowly but surely...Miss normal life occasionally. Friends, Family, HP Campus Friends, and my car occasionaly...But making wonderful new memories.
After Swazibase we left for a farm in Emkwuzheni, a small village 1-2 hours from Mbabane... There we did farm work, deweeding, picking leaves for medicines,picking sweet potatoes, etc.etc. and finding very funny goggas (bugs), using a long drop and a bucket at night when scared to walk in darkness to the longdrop, the shower was pretty cool bucket shower, no electricity except in the hall&office in certain hours. We also did door to door, it was so amazing the welcome in the villages, and for me it was a blessing to really sit on the mats and share and pray for the people of Emzwhuzeni and Swaziland...Also every mornign we did a devotion at the local hospital and I helped 2 days digging a foundation for the church in the area.... Mostly what made me sad to leave is just the warm friendly people (esp. the older people when we did door to door the attitude wasnt OH no, but Siyabonga, Thankyou for sharing the word with us...) Also we played with the children living around the area, so at least once a day you hear from the fence "CHUNDRE! (accent), VICTORIA!, BOB". I also got asked why am I an umlungu (white person), which confirms one of my theories about the history of coloureds which is another discussion for another day. But funnily enough one of the children that asked was light like me and even had greenish eyes.I said why do u call me
Umlungu,when we look the same. A little miracle was at the hospital, they had no one to do devotions for the 2 weeks that we were there and we didnt even know that when we came to do it. They have a schedule but the 2 weeks we were there were the only two no one was booked. Also what was amazing was when God gave specific words to share and then when we pray and share with the people what was on our hearts afterwards we find out it was exactly what they were going through, and really we don't know them before...Oh in Emkwuzheni we ate alot of free mangoes. The farm we were working on provides food by
sales and some of the stock as food for an orphanage in Mbabane. We are now this weekend at the Orphanage in Mbababe, IT's called the Sandra Lee Orphanage...The kids are so amazingly cute!!!!! And
happy...Though lots have either lost their parents through aids or they come from the abandoned childrens ward in Mbabane HOspital which I may have mentioned going to before?
So thats it in terms of Update. On Monday we leave for 2 weeks of Ministry in JOburg, and then 2 weeks School ministry in Port Elizabeth, then Patensie 2 weeks, then Graduation March4... and then I come to Cape Town after that, for 2 weeks, and then I dont know what next... So thats my quick update if you guys would like to sponsor me still You need to bank it to
Absa Jeffreys Bay (not sure of Branch Code)
Account Holder:Veronika Gloeck
Account No. 9213661812
Ref: YWAM Swazi Outreach Chandre
Thank You all for your love, prayers, donations, friendship...Everyday I realised how blessed I have been with good friends and family.
Seriously... I love and sincerely miss you all....Whether some I know through internet or some in person, recently or for years, I must say you guys have all been open and true and Love you. I think it takes
leaving and being alone for a while to see you. Those in Joburg or PE who wish to see me, Please contact me then on 082 622 9848 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 082 622 9848 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. I'm not sure where my cell c phone is so dont contact me on there. Leaving for Joburg on Monday so dont contact me before, but please say hi :) Oh and lastly Happy birthday to all I didnt say. SOrry really hard to communicate and some days working super hard and just flopping in bed after....Happy Birthday Thails! Congrats Jos on your beautiful new baby and Elana...Candice, so sorry to hear about your grandma, may God comfort you... and everyone else hopefully I'll be more connected when back in SA...
Love you all and God bless you too... Nkosi ikubusisi - (God bless you in seswati!).
Update from Swaziland....
Airtime is super expensive here so I limited contact to just letting my mom know where I am and gave her my no. to contact me...
So far its been good! I have this problem of making everyplace I go to home,so everytime I leave it's been hard.
After Uitenhage the teams split in 3 and our team went to Swaziland with public transport. Lots of issues, e.g. at first not having our names on the bus, Joburg had so many street vendors and then the 4 hour taxi drive to Swaziland. From there we went to Swaziland YWAM base which is a beautiful property, a couple of houses converted into dorms, etc... with 2 dogs, 3 cats and a cow...Basically there we just did work duties, working on a floor that needed the glue removed and I am seeing that I am becoming so much more like my mother. When I had to pick up cow poop my reaction was, at least it's not smelling and someone has to do it...And this is preparation for my own farm one day :) If you know me well u'll know this wasnt me 4 months ago... Anyway pics and a longer update to follow. All I want to add is that though it was hard to be alone on Christmas, I was sitting in this most beautiful nature and then realised that God was giving one of my dreams to own a big property on a small holding in nature where the dogs run freely and kids etc...to me on Christmas and it was a christmas time with me and him... That was a blessing... New Years I fell asleep at 11:40 :) We found and killed a snake the last day... But longer update and pics will come hopefully in Joburg. That is if I get money again for such things, Still have 90% of my outreach fees left to pay but the money is coming in slowly but surely...Miss normal life occasionally. Friends, Family, HP Campus Friends, and my car occasionaly...But making wonderful new memories.
After Swazibase we left for a farm in Emkwuzheni, a small village 1-2 hours from Mbabane... There we did farm work, deweeding, picking leaves for medicines,picking sweet potatoes, etc.etc. and finding very funny goggas (bugs), using a long drop and a bucket at night when scared to walk in darkness to the longdrop, the shower was pretty cool bucket shower, no electricity except in the hall&office in certain hours. We also did door to door, it was so amazing the welcome in the villages, and for me it was a blessing to really sit on the mats and share and pray for the people of Emzwhuzeni and Swaziland...Also every mornign we did a devotion at the local hospital and I helped 2 days digging a foundation for the church in the area.... Mostly what made me sad to leave is just the warm friendly people (esp. the older people when we did door to door the attitude wasnt OH no, but Siyabonga, Thankyou for sharing the word with us...) Also we played with the children living around the area, so at least once a day you hear from the fence "CHUNDRE! (accent), VICTORIA!, BOB". I also got asked why am I an umlungu (white person), which confirms one of my theories about the history of coloureds which is another discussion for another day. But funnily enough one of the children that asked was light like me and even had greenish eyes.I said why do u call me
Umlungu,when we look the same. A little miracle was at the hospital, they had no one to do devotions for the 2 weeks that we were there and we didnt even know that when we came to do it. They have a schedule but the 2 weeks we were there were the only two no one was booked. Also what was amazing was when God gave specific words to share and then when we pray and share with the people what was on our hearts afterwards we find out it was exactly what they were going through, and really we don't know them before...Oh in Emkwuzheni we ate alot of free mangoes. The farm we were working on provides food by
sales and some of the stock as food for an orphanage in Mbabane. We are now this weekend at the Orphanage in Mbababe, IT's called the Sandra Lee Orphanage...The kids are so amazingly cute!!!!! And
happy...Though lots have either lost their parents through aids or they come from the abandoned childrens ward in Mbabane HOspital which I may have mentioned going to before?
So thats it in terms of Update. On Monday we leave for 2 weeks of Ministry in JOburg, and then 2 weeks School ministry in Port Elizabeth, then Patensie 2 weeks, then Graduation March4... and then I come to Cape Town after that, for 2 weeks, and then I dont know what next... So thats my quick update if you guys would like to sponsor me still You need to bank it to
Absa Jeffreys Bay (not sure of Branch Code)
Account Holder:Veronika Gloeck
Account No. 9213661812
Ref: YWAM Swazi Outreach Chandre
Thank You all for your love, prayers, donations, friendship...Everyday I realised how blessed I have been with good friends and family.
Seriously... I love and sincerely miss you all....Whether some I know through internet or some in person, recently or for years, I must say you guys have all been open and true and Love you. I think it takes
leaving and being alone for a while to see you. Those in Joburg or PE who wish to see me, Please contact me then on 082 622 9848 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 082 622 9848 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. I'm not sure where my cell c phone is so dont contact me on there. Leaving for Joburg on Monday so dont contact me before, but please say hi :) Oh and lastly Happy birthday to all I didnt say. SOrry really hard to communicate and some days working super hard and just flopping in bed after....Happy Birthday Thails! Congrats Jos on your beautiful new baby and Elana...Candice, so sorry to hear about your grandma, may God comfort you... and everyone else hopefully I'll be more connected when back in SA...
Love you all and God bless you too... Nkosi ikubusisi - (God bless you in seswati!).
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