PRESS SERVICE INTERNATIONAL  -  YOUNG WRITERS

Week 1   -   Cycle 8    -   September 2018

FRIDAY 21 SEPTEMBER

Sophia Gray: Bake for Bibles fun, delicious - Sarah Richards  (Wellington NZ) - Frid 21 Sept

New Zealand nationally-known cook, author, Destitute Gourmet founder and Food Director of Bauer Media, Sophie Gray says Bake for Bibles is a great project for kids, friends and ...
READ MORE .....

Sometimes Ministers want a break, no people  -   by Aarin Sabio  (USA)  -  Frid 21 Sept  

Having arrived back from a long weekend of youth camp I was exhausted. I love travelling and serving with old and new friends, but I feel like I need at least three weeks of paid vacation. Let's just face it; the struggle is real. When it comes to ministry, more than we'd like to admit it, we all reach a point where "we just don't feel like" serving God or others anymore.

READ MORE  ....

It's not about you   -   by Cindy Cheng  (China)   -   Frid 14 Sept

One of my favourite pastors used to say that when we were non-believers, what God hates most is our sins. When we became followers of Jesus, what God hates most is our self-centeredness. It’s easy for Christians to understand the first part of the statement ....

READ MORE .......

How to grow a church: Barista coffee ...  by Jeremy Dover  (senior writer Melb) -  Frid 21 Sept

These were the suggestions offered when I asked how do we grow the church today. When I pressed further they justified their ideas pointing to marketing research that confirms if you can engage a customer and get them through your doors you will have a higher conversion rate (pun intended) for sales and return patronage. However, is that the secret? 

READ MORE ......

Your pastor is by no means a fool - by Genevieve Wilson  (senior writer, Canada) - Frid 21 Sept

My name is Gen and I am your future pastor’s wife. My husband is busy studying 50-60 hours a week, learning Greek, Hebrew, biblical counselling and how to exegetically preach the word of God so that he can be faithful with the word when he comes to your church....

READ MORE ......

Footplate Padre Driving a huge locomotive  -  Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -  Frid 21 Sept

The title of my 1989 book – From the Driver's Seat – now out of print - details 14 rail journey's from the locomotive driver's perspective, an oral account of what occurs from signing on for duty to when relieved upon arrival at the destination. Why might I write something of an account of such a book all these years later after publication and moreover ..

READ MORE  .....

THURSDAY 20 SEPTEMBER

Art for Laguna Quays Respite    -    Well-Being Australia   -   Thurs 20 Sept

The Whitsundays Laguna Quays Respite coordinated by Well-Being Australia for missions in its seventh year has proven to be a lovely break away for a wide range of those in Christian service.  Additional art has now been purchased for the respite cottage. These art works

READ MORE .....

The gospel for everyone    -    by Ashley Mullins  (USA, back from Malawi)    -    Thurs 20 Sept 

I grew up in the church. I heard altar call after altar call growing up and had genuine belief in God at a young age. Nevertheless, my understanding of the gospel was underdeveloped. I thought the gospel was something that unbelievers needed to hear, not something that I needed. But as I’ve come to understand it deeper, I realize that I personally need the gospel
​
READ MORE ......

A September letter to .... myself    -    by Sunny Kang  (Auckland NZ)   -   Thurs 20 Sept  

Recently you have gotten even busier. Not only do you have university and work, now you are starting an internship! You are so excited but scared, anxious of how this will go on and how on earth you will juggle all your to-do’s. You constantly sigh over your weekly planner, jotting down all your deadlines and priorities with a big frown on your face. It is nearly the ...

READ MORE ....

Lows are just as important as highs   -   by Charis Jackson  (USA)   -   Thurs 20 Sept

Life is an up-hill battle. An adventure. A constant struggling forward. A pursuit of not only happiness but fulfillment. A living out your best. A leaning into the wind and storms. Lately the weight of a leaning in life, a pursuit of God’s best for my life has overwhelmed me. I've ..

READ MORE  .....

Lies so clever they sound like truth   -   by Kandima Awendila  (Mozambique)   -  Thurs 20 Sept

I recently read an article that states that the Australian competition watchdog, the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission), has launched an urgent investigation into allegations of “fake” honey in the Australian honey industry.  Tests carried out by German laboratory QSI, of a number of samples of well known Australian brands of honey, revealed ..

READ MORE .....

Handsome man speaks investments ... the Gospel?  -  Well-Being Aust - Thurs 20 Sept

Research has come to light that a handsome man when spruiking investment opportunities gets a far greater response than a 'pretty' (lovely) woman engaged in the same business enterprise. The Banking Royal Commission has also illustrated something of this. This recent News.com article claimed that the findings from the journal Proceedings of the National ..
       Photo  -  young writer Jesse Moore

READ MORE ......

WEDNESDAY 19 SEPTEMBER

Sport:  Rugby mania   -   by Josh Hinds  (Agnes Waters, Qld)   -   Wed 19 Sept

This sport article is being written while a bush fire is raging 1 kilometre from our home in Agnes Waters (Queensland) and the evacuation order has been given to all us residents.  Bush fires are part of Australian  life and as though this is dramatic and homes will inevitably be lost, maybe even ours, it is one of the many things that focus the mind in this land ‘down

READ MORE  .....

Treat Yo' Self   -    by Mel Cleary  (Wellington NZ)   -   Wed 19 Sept

Imagine a day where you treat yourself to anything and everything, cost and reason are no factor, your joy is the only concern. Welcome to Treat Yo’ Self day.  All lovers of Parks and Rec will know exactly what I’m talking about but for those who don’t, it is a day when you do whatever you want regardless of anything else. As sitcoms are, Treat Yo’ Self day is ....
​
READ MORE  .......

The God who is there   -    by Paul Lewis  (West Indies)   -  Wed 19 Sept

Recently I listened to an interview from a popular musical artiste in Jamaica, who recently produced a song that was explicitly religious, with expressions that could be deemed Christian. A friend sent this interview to me, which I found to be very telling; in this interview he was asked-given the content of the song- if he was now a Christian. Truthfully there was..
​
READ MORE .....

Propaganda as opposed to journalism  -  by Christina Jones  (USA)   -  Wed 19 Sept

I both love and struggle with the way God is not in the business of sugarcoating anything. For example, a religious person and a non-religious person are equally likely to be offended by something they read in the Bible. But this is what truth is like – uncomfortable and ....

READ MORE .....

False doctrine always a challenge - by Ron Ross  (senior writer, Sunshine Coast) - Wed 19 Sept

Throughout history there have been devastating consequences to false doctrine. In the 1930’s there was a ‘Nazi form Christianity.’ Church schools were closed and an ‘anti-Semitic..
                          photo  -  Mt Carmel overlooking Valley of Jezreel
READ MORE ......

Christian tourism to Israel continues to grow  - Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads) - Wed 19 Sept

The Holy Land is one of my favourite destinations as one who has led tours to Israel and Turkey (the seven early church sites) as part of the InnerFaith Travel Team of tour leaders.....

READ MORE .....

TUESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER

Lessons in multi-tasking   -   by Jason Lalone  (Chicago, USA)   -   Tues 18 Sept

Sometimes it takes extreme measures to get my creative juices flowing. The coffee shop that I frequent, which I’m sure I’m keeping in business with my $4 latte’s and cappuccino’s, sometimes just doesn’t do it. I need to shake it up. The daily routine of life can get me caught. It’s as if the same patterns in life, equate to the same thought patterns......
​
READ MORE .....

Racism and the Caribbean Extrovert  -  Stacy-Ann Smith  (Jamaica West Indies) - Tues 18 Sept

"Out of many, One People", my country's motto and our way of living. Don’t get me wrong, there is division amongst us, but even in our differences and trials we laugh at problems, dance when our issues arise and keep on moving.  Two months ago I travelled to my college

READ MORE .....

Reaching top speed in life with God   -   by Matthew Thornton  (Auckland NZ)  -  Tues 18 Sept

I don’t know about you, but commitment can be hard in the world we live in today. All you have to do is look at statistics such as the increasing divorce rates and decreasing career lengths and you start to see that our culture today struggles with commitment. When things aren’t as you want them to be, the world tells us its okay to give up and search for a better ..

READ MORE  .....

Zanzibar: gives to poor, gives... Lord  -  by Vic Matthews  (senior writer, Moruya) Tues 18 Sept

After spending a little over four weeks teaching English in Zanzibar, I can assure you that it’s not the tropical island paradise, which you imagine it to be. Yes there’s lots of palm trees, gently waving their branches in welcoming gestures as the sea- breeze makes its way across the lush island, blown from the bewitching azure sea, which surrounds it. ....

READ MORE .....

Radical Performance Enhancement  -  by Mark Rusic  (senior writer, Melbourne) - Tues 18 Sept

Performance review and appraisal is a part of daily life.  Whether in schools, even from the age of kindergarten or in the advanced stages of career it is continually measured and assessed.  We may be told to establish SMART goals or to work through a personal improvement plan by HR or we may have to undertake a course to upgrade our skills....

READ MORE ....

The marks of a healthy church (1)   -   Well-Being Australia    -    Tues 18 Sept

It was 10 pm., and the 60-year-old patient would not last the night. She was still conscious so her grieving daughter and I prepared for a bedside vigil. Then a thought: I preach about the ministry of the whole church, so why was I there in the hospital? I phoned the chairman of elders (Russell Costello - yes the father of Janet, Tim and Peter) and asked him to arrange ..

READ MORE ......

MONDAY 17 SEPTEMBER

1 min video  -  2018 young writers conference   -   Press Service International - Mon 17 Sept

The 1 minute video of the 2018 young writer conference held in Christchurch on Saturday 1 September is released.  These regular 1 minute videos have been produced since the 2013 young writer conference in Melbourne are by no means the definitive response, rather they are designed to provide a glimpse of the focus, the fun and enjoyment......
   Photo  -   video producer Bridget Brenton of Brisbane

VIEW THE VIDEO  ......

The most difficult Scripture   -    by Josh Robbie  (South Africa)   -    Mon 17 Sept

Scriptural exhortations and commands are sometimes difficult to abide by. Like the one about not looking at another woman to lust for her. That one is even more difficult for men. Not boiling a young goat in its mothers milk has not been difficult for me so far, but it could be if I were trying to simmer a young kid in its mum’s milk on the stove while trying not to let it ...

READ MORE .....

Why Leviticus excites me    -    by Jessica McPherson  (Christchurch NZ)   -   Mon 17 Sept

If I said “Think of an exciting book of the bible”, what would you think of? 1 or 2 Kings perhaps? (Lots of exciting stories about David in there!) Perhaps Daniel? (The fiery furnace springs to mind as an exciting story!) Or perhaps even Revelation? (Stories with dragons ...

READ MORE .......

Respecting Politicians  -     by Rosie Robinson  (England)    -     Mon 17 Sept

It has just gone nine o’clock in the evening and after a longish day at work and with this week’s deadline approaching, I knew I had to write this article and was doing what any normal person would do; checking their Facebook feed! I was attempting to find some ....

READ MORE ......

Unbroken line: a lesson in mercy   -   by Sharma Taylor  (West Indies)   -   Mon 17 Sept

Major roadworks were being conducted across the island, particularly in the business and commercial districts. These road construction projects were part of the Jamaican Government’s ambitious plan to improve an aging, poorly maintained road network.
​
READ MORE .....

A test of 4 seconds - churches into homes   -   Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -   Mon 17 Sept

“Manor from Heaven – turning a church into a home” an article in The New Daily by Max Opray, once churches converted people, now people are converting churches .....

READ MORE .....

for previous Cycles - see link below

https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/daily-articles-2018-cycles-1-7.html

WEEK 5  -  CYCLE 7   -   SEPTEMBER 2018

FRIDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

Esther Koh - Kiwi young writer editor in 2019  -  Press Service International  -  Frid 14 Sept 

Esther Koh is taking up the role of editor for the Kiwi young writers in 2019. Esther has a passion for helping others find their purpose in life. She loves making a difference in the lives of young people. It was unsurprising that she would answer a unique altar call at a Presbyterian youth camp to become a teacher when she was 16. Her first ever flight was ..

READ MORE ....

The Power of the Mind   -   by Mary Iengo  (Adelaide)   -    Frid 14 Sept

Solomon tells us to guard our hearts about all else, making sure we concentrate on those desires that will keep us on the right path. Make sure your affections lead you in the right direction. And therefore, put boundaries on your desires. Our minds are the most vulnerable aspect of our being and they truly affect every aspect of life. Proverbs chapter 23, verse 7 ..

READ MORE .....

On being a woman   -   by Kali Hendrickson  (USA)   -   Frid 14 Sept

I write this letter to women, firstly those in the American culture, and next to my sister’s in Christ all over the world. I recognize and take responsibility for my own life’s story and experiences. None of the following advice is said to infringe upon your unique story. On the contrary, I write to exhort and encourage you.  My great grandmother was part of a ....

READ MORE ......

First ever Māori Bible celebrates 150 years! - Sarah Richards  (Wellington NZ)  Frid 14 Sept 

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the publication of the first edition of Te Paipera Tapu (The Holy Bible in Māori). While the first ever Scriptures in Te Reo Māori were ...

READ MORE ......

Footplate Padre: First Class Rail Travel   -   Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Frid 14 Sept

News.com featured an article whether it is worth the extra cost going 1st Class on Euro Rail. It's a very interesting article and well worth a read. But what about Australia's rail 1st Class trains journeys. There are really two responses to this very good question as the great rail journeys of Australia which were once interstate business orientated no longer apply as the air traffic revolution ...

READ MORE ......

THURSDAY 13 SEPTEMBER

Young writer's Best Articles of 2018  -  No.2   -  Press Service International  -  Thurs 13 Sept

Each year the Australian and New Zealand statisticians collate the four sets of points from the panellists who mark the young writers in the Press Service International – Christian Today program and from those points the Best Article of each young writer is determined. At the awards evening each year the Best Article of each young writer is announced along with
    Photo  -  Matthew Thornton a Kiwi young writer 'Best Article' listed

READ MORE  .....

Daniel Jang presents conference plenary   -   Press Service International  -  Thus 13 Sept 

Press Service International in conjunction with Christian Today established the young writer program in 2009 to equip the next generation of Christian writers. Daniel Jang, the inaugural NZ Basil Sellers Writer Award winner and now a senior writer, was one of the plenary ......

READ MORE .....

The edge of love    -   Fiona Mackenzie  (Sydney)   -   Thurs 13 Sept

You’re standing on the edge of a platform, suspended high, metres off the ground. In front of you is a thin wire. Your mission? Should you choose to accept, travel across this wire, suspended off the ground. Walking slowly, keeping your balance. Your eyes looking ahead, your head still. All whilst realising your feet are not on the safety of the ground....

READ MORE  ......

No fear of heights   -   by Elizabeth Josic  (Sunshine Coast)   -   Thurs 13 Sept

No fear of heights. How do we overcome fear? Firstly, let us understand what fear is and where it comes from.  What is fear? Just like faith fear is a spiritual force. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Fear the substance of .....
​
READ MORE ....

The quest for perfection   -   by Wayne Graham  (NZ senior writer, Wellington)  -  Thurs 13 Sept 

My father was bald. So was my grandfather on my mother’s side. When I was in the fifth form our science teacher told us if your father was bald and your grandfather on your mother’s side was bald, there was a 100 percent chance that you would become bald too. Science had struck a cruel blow....

READ MORE ......

WEDNESDAY 12 SEPTEMBER

Young writers 'Best Articles' of 2018  No.1  -   Press Service International  -  Wed 12 Sept

Each year the Australian and New Zealand statisticians collate the five sets of points from the panellists who mark the young writers in the Press Service International – Christian Today program and from those points the Best Article of each young writer is determined.  At the awards evening these are announced along with a description by their ‘Week Editors’ ...
    Photo  -  Sam Gillespie the Chair of the Young Writer's Brain's Trust

READ MORE ....

If a sport is not seen, did it really happen - by Phil Hall  (one of 5 sport writers) - Wed 12 Sept

Recently, I started watching the Moto GP series. The major reason is that it’s telecast after I get back from work Sunday nights. The simple explanation is, Moto GP is Formula One for motorcycles. Of course that contains Valentino Rossi and many very skilled riders most ...

READ MORE .....

​

Dreams of war and tribulation   -   by Christopher Harris (Melbourne)   -    Wed 12 Sept

In my journey in growing in the Lord I have received many dreams of destruction, war and tribulation. Many of these were so startling and vivid, of events that have yet to come. Seeking God and believing in His Word I believe that He showed me what would be occurring during the days ahead.  The Bible speaks of great destruction and difficulty in a ..
​
READ MORE .....

It's mental. Health   -   by Grant Harris  (NZ senior writer, Auckland)   -   Wed 12 Sept 

New Zealand recently mourned the loss of 48 year-old Television NZ news presenter and journalist Greg Boyed who committed suicide while on holiday in Switzerland with his wife and young son. It was known that Boyed had been battling depression for some time ....

READ MORE ......

So dangerous, Antisemitism    -   by Ron Ross  (senior writer, Sunshine Coast)   -   Wed 12 Sept

Two years ago the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby made profound comments about anti-Semitism. In strong language he described it as the ‘insidious evil’ and ‘perverted and absurd.’ In an article for the Holocaust Educational Trust Justin Welby placed anti-Semitism ..

READ MORE .....

TUESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER

Young writer reflections: Who are we?   -   Press Service International  -   Tues 11 Sept 

It has now been eleven days since the 2018 Press Service International (PSI) young writer conference held this year in Christchurch New Zealand on Saturday 1 September. 43 young writers attended from Australia, New Zealand and across the world and out of 85 in the ...
  Photo  -  Capt. Peter Brookshaw Melbourne hosting the 2019 young writer conf

READ MORE .....

Bloom Again     -    by Amy Manners  (Adelaide)   -   Tues 11 Sept

I wander by the plum tree in our garden and catch its perfume on a warm breeze. Last week its twigs were stark and empty, but today they’re laden with pastel pinks. Bees poke their heads into blossoms, while honeyeaters flit from branch to branch, shaking petals to the ground with their whipping wings.
​
READ MORE .....

Facing the need for material security   -   by Ashley Menelaws  (Kingaroy)   -   Tues 11 Sept

Every day I wake up, stumble out of bed, my feet touch the piercing cold wooden floor and the day starts. Eventually I find myself lost in deep thought, and have something gnawing at my mind. I ask myself what is this, things seem good in every definition of the word, and I have a sense of security in my life. That's it, I realise, I am surrounded by security. ....

READ MORE ....
​

Books of the Bible rarely preached on - Daniel Jang  (NZ senior writer, Auck'd) - Tues 11 Sept 

Do you know the books of the Bible that your pastor (or yourself) never preached on? If you have a hard time spelling them, chances are that they might be the most neglected and least studied books in the Bible. No, it’s not Leviticus. Some people love studying and preaching ..
  Photo  -  Bishop Brian Carrell, Christchurch NZ - young writer conference speaker

READ MORE .....

ARPA Gutenberg Award: The NZ Baptist  -  by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -  Tues 11 Sept 

The 2018 Guetenberg the Australasian Religious Press Association’s (ARPA) highest award, went to ‘NZ Baptist’ (magazine) at Saturday’s glittering ‘awards dinner’ in Brisbane. The citation read in part –  “The NZ Baptist magazine is a high quality bi-monthly print production with a well- connected user-friendly and accessible web site. There is a strong emphasis ...

READ MORE .....

MONDAY 10 SEPTEMBER

2018 Young Writer 'Annual' Awards   -    Press Service International   -  Mon 10 Sept

The 2018 young writer conference on Saturday 1 September held at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre ‘4.00pm Awards Session’ presented the year’s awards. Young writers came together in Christchurch from Australia, New Zealand and around the world...
   Photo  -  Kandima Awendila (Mozambique) 2018 Internaional's Over 31's 'Basil Sellers' First

READ MORE .....

NZ young writers going 'alone'   -    Press Service International  -   Mon 10 Sept

The Kiwi young writers have determined to go alone after being part of Australia’s Press Service International for 7 years at the 2018 young writer conference on Saturday held at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre.
   Photo  -  Esther Koh Wellington NZ, the 2019 Kiwi young writer 'editor'

READ MORE .....

Food, wellness and God   -    by Laura Miles   (Brisbane)   -    Mon 10 Sept

I’m sure many others can relate when I say my relationship with food is… complicated. Growing up, I had some kind of turbo metabolism, meaning I had little idea of the physical consequences and effects of poor nutrition. My parents weren’t terribly unhealthy, just not particularly health-conscious, so I never really learnt about the chemical and emotional ...

READ MORE ......

When it hurts, I'll praise your name   -   by Jarred Pienaar  (Sunshine Coast)  -   Mon 10 Sept

Nearly seven months ago when we had our first scan after finding out Haley was pregnant. It revealed we were having twin boys, we were shocked and absolutely in awe of what the Lord had given us. To set the scene, it took us 18 months to fall pregnant with our daughter Chelsea. All the research we had done said 4 months was the norm. ...
​
READ MORE  ......
​

Blurring the lines of 'human rights'   -   by Liz Hay  (NZ senior writer)  -  Mon 10 Sept

The media serves up some strange offerings. One of the latest is the decision to award the status of ‘personhood’ to a river in New Zealand. Why? It’s a legal status, conferred on a stretch of water that has significant meaning for Maori.  The way in which the river has been used during previous centuries as a food source, a conduit for journeys, and as a source ...

READ MORE .....

WEEK 4  -  CYCLE '7'   -   SEPTEMBER 2018

FRIDAY 7 SEPTEMBER

2018 Sport Writer and 2018 Theology Awards   -   Press Service International  -  Frid 7 Sept

The annual sport writer award honours the late Tony Dunkerley who spoke at numerous of the early young writer conferences in Australia and New Zealand on mentoring..... The Theology Awards hone in on those with a good grasp of  .....
  photo  -  Roydon Ng, Aust Theology Award  -   NZ Esther Koh,   International Charis Jackson
        2018 Tony Dunkerley Sport Writer Award  -  Wes Tronson

READ MORE ......

Fruit if the Spirit:  signposts in my life   -   by Jess Currie  (Brisbane)   -   Frid 7 Sept

If you've grown up in a Christian household, or you attended a Christian school, then the 'fruit of the Spirit' (or 'Spirit fruits' as my husband says) is something you've no doubt read about, heard about, and probably memorised. You may have even sung a song about them. ....

READ MORE  ......

A heart that's wounded    -   by Bonnie Dowie  (Adelaide)   -   Frid 7 Sept

My letter to those with wounded hearts:  I’m suggesting you toughen up. When an old wound was reopened unexpectedly and I felt the sharpness of a knife cut through it, I said to my heart, ‘You shouldn’t be feeling this pain. You should be over that by now, don’t be ridiculous. The timeline of healing for this wound is long over.’...
​
READ MORE  .....

By happy or what about contentment   -   by Bridget Brenton  (Brisbane)   -   Frid 7 Sept

Film Australia has set up some special videos on YouTube to commemorate Australia in the sixties (www.youtube.com/user/FILMAUSTRALIA) something fortunate enough to get a mentioning on one of those many Morning programs recently (just please don't ask me which one).
​
READ MORE ......

A Biblical perspective on work  -   by Manuele Taefilo  (Auckland NZ)   -   Frid 7 Sept

There are many different reasons why people go to work, or find work. A common reason is people need to earn an income to financially support themselves. Everyone needs money to pay the bills, food and to save or spend on leisure.  Parents of young children go to work so they can provide for themselves and their young ones. 

READ MORE .....

Cave rescue  -  a miracle indeed   -   by Sheelagh Wegman  (senior writer, Hobart)  -  Frid 7 Sept

It’s been a few weeks since the eyes of the world were fixed on a remote part of the world, where 12 young soccer players and their coach were trapped in a cave. Over a couple of weeks we all watched and prayed – and hoped. Lots of prayer was happening: from Christians, Buddhists, Muslims and probably even agnostics...

READ MORE .....

THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER

2018 Youth Development Awards   -    Press Service International   -   Thurs 5 Sept

Four young writers have been awarded the 2018 Youth Development Awards at the young writer awards on Saturday held at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre at the annual young writers conference.......
   Photo   -    Jesse Moore  -  Australian Youth Development Award  -  joint with sister Cartia
            Other winners  -  New Zealand  -  Richard Kwon,      International  -  Caitlyn Furler

READ MORE ......

2018 young writers conference 'tid bits'   -    Press Service International   -    Thurs 5 Sept

2018 young writer conference held on Saturday at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre was a fascinating and timely experience for all who attended. Young writers came from ...
    
Photo   -   Renee Robbie from South Africa, the furtherest travelled to the conference 

READ MORE  ......

It takes a village    -    by Rebecca Horverd  (Auckland NZ)    -   Thurs 5 Sept

There is a saying: ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’ While I’ve heard this saying briefly before, it only recently became apparent to me what it really means. So, when Jacinda Adern made a post on Instagram introducing her new baby earlier in June this year with the caption ‘welcome to our village wee one’ the comment simply passed over me....

READ MORE ......

Does God love victims?    -    by Melissa Ramoo  (Sydney)   -    Thurs 8 Sept

The story of David and Bathsheba is well known. We know of David’s successes, we know of his failures and we know of God’s love and forgiveness for him. But did God love Bathsheba? 2 Samuel Chapter 11 tells us the story of David the king of Israel, whose army is out at war, being so confident that he’ll win that he decides to stay back and relax....

READ MORE .......

Why Christian culture      -    by Roydon Ng  (Sydney)     -    Thurs 6 Sept

Christianity is worth fighting for. There is so much that we owe to Christianity, it can be described as a debt that many in the world are either naïve or blatantly ignorant about.  It is not popular to acknowledge that the modern society ought to be in gratitude to Christianity. Responses to this fact often range from dismissiveness to lies and rage.......
​
READ MORE .....

Is our banter helpful?    by Brandon Tsang  (Sydney)   -   Thurs 6 Sept

Jokes and funny stories are a great way to connect with people and friends. We love sharing and joking around with each other. Whether it is the lame puns we might have, funny stories or banter, people always love a good laugh.  Between good friends, we take it up a notch and proceed to bantering and trying to “roast” each other through jokes or in-phrases, usually ...

READ MORE ......

ARPA kick starts tomorrow in Brisbane  -  by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -  Thurs 6 Sept

ARPA - Australasian Religious Press Association meets in Brisbane’s Creek Street Novatel this weekend at its annual conference and prestigious awards - which kicks-starts tomorrow and concludes on Sunday. This the 44th conference of the professional religious writers for Christian media whether that be denominational / church, mission, independent press ....

READ MORE  .....

WEDNESDAY 5 SEPTEMBER

2018 'Over 31' - Basil Sellers Winners  -  Press Service International  -  Wed 3 Sept

The Emerging Writers Over 31’s awards were presented at the 2018 Young Writer Awards ceremony on Saturday was at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre –

Australia: Peter Brookshaw;    NZ: Emma McGeorge (photo);    Internationals: Kandima Awendila

READ MORE ......

Chelsea and Liverpool start perfect season  -  by Wes Tronson  (Sport writer)  -   5 Sept 2018

Chelsea and  Liverpool are 4 wins from 4 fixtures early on as the first international break begins. Liverpool’s much anticipated season has got off with a bang, winning all matches, their latest test, a tough trip away to Leicester on Saturday for the early kick off .....
   Photo  -  Wes Tronson won the 2018 Tony Dunkerley Sport Writers Award

READ MORE  .....

Foundational bible teaching for your child    -   by Jessie Currie  (Brisbane)   -   Wed 5 Sept

When I was a child, I had a well-thought out idea. There are two Bibles: the children’s Bible and the adult’s Bible. The children’s Bible contained all the stories. If you wanted to read David and Goliath, Noah’s Ark, or Daniel in the Lion’s Den, then look no further than the ....
​
READ MORE ........

Stefan Molyneux and Lauren Southern tour ....   -   by Conor Ryan  (Adelaide)  -  Wed 5 Sept

There seems to be a shift happening in our culture at the moment. Australia has become a popular destination for right-leaning media commentators and activists. This began to emerge last year when a men's rights conference brought a number of prominent men's rights activists to Australia such as Karen Straughan. Things really started to take off ....
​
READ MORE .....

A sacrifice of praise   -   by Josiah Gray  (Brisbane)    -     Wed 5 Sept 

If you’re a Christian you’ve almost certainly been in a setting where it was time to praise God, and if you’ve been in that situation, you’ve definitely had times where you didn’t want to.  Maybe you’re tired, maybe you’re angry, or maybe you just don’t want to look weird. Well I ..

READ MORE .....

The anticipation of grief   -   by Cindy Adwong  (Auckland, NZ)   -    Wed 5 Sept

I sat at a funeral service. I had mentally prepared myself not to cry, not be emotional. I knew that once I started a drop of tear, it would soon flow into a river.  Yes, I may have been mentally prepared. But was I emotionally prepared? Maybe not.
READ MORE ......

The Feats of the Lord   -  by Ron Ross  (senior writer, Sunshine Coast)   -   Wed 5 Sept

Autumn in Israel starts with the celebration of Rosh Hashanah, which in Hebrew means “head of the year” (the Jewish New Year). It is also known as the Feast of Trumpets and Day of the Blowing (Yom HaTruah). The shofar, or ram’s horn, is blown all over the Land on this day, which marks the beginning of the holiest time of year on the Jewish calendar.

READ MORE .......

TUESDAY 4 SEPTEMBER

Jessica McPherson wins 2018 NZ Basil Sellers - by Mark Tronson  (Tw'd Hds) - Tues 4 Sept

New Zealand’s Jessica McPherson; and International’s Stacy-Ann Smith and Jason LaLone wins respective Basil Sellers Young Writer Award on Saturday held at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre at the annual young writers conference. Young writers came from ....

READ MORE .....

Outstanding runner-up in Basil Sellers Award  -  Press Service International  -  Tues 4 Sept 

Adelaide’s Amy Manners was the Australian runner up in the 2018 Basil Sellers Awards with the Panellists points only marginally tipping Amy into second place. The awards were part of Saturday at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre - annual young writers conference.
   photo   -  Amy Manners from Adelaide

READ MORE  ......

Why certainty can be dangerous for faith  -   by Cheryl McGrath  (Melbourne)  -  Tues 4 Sept 

“I don’t know." They’re three tiny words, but in our culture, they are strangely divisive.  Our digital age and round-the-clock news reporting is built around opinions, debates and outrage. From the casual Facebook user to the political pundit on cable news, admitting that you don’t know something is to lose your high ground.....
   Photo  -  Cheryl McGrath 2017 and 2018 Basil Sellers Award winner

READ MORE ......

Get prepared for 'whatever'   -   by Justin Monaghan  (Adelaide)   -   Tues 4 Sept

As a surfer I have found it's not good enough to just catch the wave, you need to be able to catch the wave in the right position. Sometimes what happens is you see the set wave approaching and the adrenaline kicks in, especially if it's large surf, and you can find ....

READ MORE  ......
​

Running on empty    -    by Rebecca Moore  (senior writer, Sunshine Coast)   -  Tues 4 Sept

It was a busy school morning. I managed to get the kids out the door but with only minutes to spare. As all four children bundled into the car, I turned the engine on only to have the petrol light appear on my dashboard! The petrol was low—it was very low. With only minutes to spare, I had two choices.....
​
READ MORE  .......

SETI   -   by Aira Chilcott  (senior writer - Canberra)   -   Tues 4 Sept

ET – phone home!  Actually, no, phone us instead and let us know you’re out there! We’re listening for you. Humans have an inbuilt curiosity and when that is coupled with a daring imagination, the universe opens up. In 1865 Jules Verne imagined a “projectile” that carried human beings to the moon. Project Apollo was successful in landing man on the moon in ..

READ MORE ....

The Spanish Inquisition's philosophy  -  by Tim Newman  (Nelson NZ)  -   Tues 4 Sept

The last few years has in many ways been defined by the rising tide of 'religious' violence across the globe, and in particular the violence perpetrated by those who claim Islam as their religion. While the claim of ISIS’s self proclaimed Caliphate in Iraq and Syria was perhaps the focal point of the world’s attention, there has been a seemingly endless string of religiously ..

READ MORE  .....

MONDAY 3 SEPTEMBER

2018 young writer's conference a blessing   -   Press Service International  -  Mon 3 Sept

The 2018 young writer’s annual conference was a huge blessing – held on Saturday 1 September at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre. Young writers came from ....
   Photo  -  the largest conference to date, 43 young writers plus visitors

READ MORE ......
​

Cheryl McGrath wins second Basil Sellers .....    Press Service International   -   Mon 3 Sept

Melbourne’s Cheryl McGrath has won her 2nd Basil Sellers Young Writer Award at the glittering Awards on Saturday 1 September held at the Christchurch Salvation Army Centre at the annual young writers conference.  Young writers came from Australia, New Zealand, and around the world for the annual awards conference. ......

READ MORE ......

The moment of truth   -   by Caitlyn Furler   -    Mon 3 Sept

As a university student, God often speaks to me through unexpected ways that relate to whatever subjects I’m studying at the time.  This semester, God has been speaking to me through the screenwriting concept called a “moment of truth”. This concept refers to a ...

READ MORE .....

Being critical of your feed   -   by Sam Gillespie   -   Mon 3 Sept

Across India a number of fatal lynchings have taken place over the past few months. The cause is misinformation spread with messages on Whatsapp. Pressure has now been mounting on Whatsapp and new initiatives have been started to educate high schoolers on being discerning when reading messages they receive.....
​
READ MORE .......

A clear calling   -    by Hannah Edwards    -   Mon 3 Sept

I have recently been reflecting on a biblical character called Hosea. Hosea was a prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel in the 8th Century BC. Lots of prophets, particularly in the Old Testament, have gotten the raw end of the stick because God sent them to proclaim messages of judgement to His people.

READ MORE .....

Surprised by the nature of things   -    by Jeremy Suisted   -   Mon 3 Sept 

The bass notes from Jay Z's 99 Problems linger in the air as the lights dramatically fade at the stadium. A roar from the crowd erupts, as we spontaneously feel that our anticipation is about to be replaced with joy. Suddenly, the synth and chimes of Mylo Xyloto build to a climax and the atmosphere explodes into a mind-boggling display of lights, lasers and ....

READ MORE ......

Week 3  -  Cycle 7   -   August 2018

FRIDAY 31 AUGUST

What is a scapegoat    -   Christopher Archibald  (Sydney)   -   Frid 31 Aug

Whenever something goes wrong we are always quick to point the finger and blame it on this person, or this event, and then tell anyone and everyone "this is why it went wrong!" The concept of the 'Scapegoat' has been around for centuries. It comes from the Old Testament ..
​
READ MORE ......

Making up your own mind - a problem   -   by Tim Price  (Minnesota)   -   Frid 31 Aug

I don’t want to hear one more of your opinions. Anyone’s opinions—not a single one; I’m done. I don’t care what you think about the environment, politics, culture, economics,

READ MORE ......

The process of knowing God   -   by Kevin Park   (Auckland NZ)   -   Frid 31 Aug

My ministry within our local church is to young adults and I provide a presentation on significant realities as a follower of Jesus Christ. This particular one was on the process of

READ MORE ....

Fromelles  -  John Ridley   -    by Graham McDonald  (Diduno)   -   Frid 31 Aug

“After passing over rough ground covered with the bodies of the dead and wounded, strewn with barbed wire and pocked by shellfire, the nineteen-year-old sergeant led his men into

READ MORE ....

Finger of faith  -  Hand of hope   -   by Russell Modlin  (senior writer, Sun' Coast)  -  Frid 31 Aug

My 18 year old son had just been discharged from hospital and this is the report he was given. He had suffered a broken tibia as a result of a tackle in a football (soccer) game. He ...

READ MORE ......

Elite athlete depression instinctively known - by Mark Tronson  (Tw'd Heads) - Frid 31 Aug

This is perennial and I’m only scratching the surface with these illustrations. Having been pastorally involved with many elite athletes who have reached the pinnacle of sport and then
      photo  -  mentoring on Country Town Tours the late Tony Dunkerley

READ MORE ....

THURSDAY 30 AUGUST

Young writers conference on Saturday  -  Press Service International  -  Thurs 30 Aug

The 2018 young writer conference will be held in Christchurch on Saturday 1 September at the Salvation Army Conference Centre, Colombo Street – two days away. ....
     photo  -   Christchurch street flower stands

READ MORE  ....

The truth about people in two words  -   by Sharma Taylor  (Wellington NZ)   -   Thurs 30 Aug

There’s a gem of wisdom I’ve gleaned over decades of my life experience, plus from observing the lives and experiences of people I know, in addition to extensive research. I have condensed my conclusion into two words. Ready for it?  Here goes: People suck....

READ MORE .....

Why you shouldn't quit   -    by Peter Brookshaw  (Melbourne)   -   Thurs 30 Aug 

I have seen it all lately. Marriages falling apart. People spitting the dummy and walking away from their responsibilities. Friends considering whether they really have what it takes. Colleagues who have low self-esteem. Parents trying to hold their families together. Relationships on the brink of disaster....

READ MORE .....

What if God    -   by Kristen Dang  (Adelaide)    -    Thurs 30 Aug

Possibilities stretch out like the ocean’s horizon. One decision, one small turn can alter the course of a person’s life, and we don’t always see the destination before we arrive. Will we let ourselves be paralysed by doubt, or will we walk on the water in faith? Over the last ...

READ MORE .....

Reflections of His Glory    -    by Steve Cole  (Grafton)   -   Thurs 30 Aug

I’ve always been one to admire Creation. To me, being able to sit in the quiet of the night, in the middle of nowhere gazing at the moon and stars has always brought a sense of awe. I would dare say most people experience this phenomenon! And, why wouldn’t they? The heavens are God’s handy work and tell us about the glory of God!

READ MORE ....

UCA highlights less-uniting stance    -    Press Service International   -   Thurs 30 Aug

The Uniting Church Australia’s (UCA) has an evangelical network, the ‘Assembly of Confessing Congregations’ (ACC) and it is straight shooting over and against the UCA’s ...
   photo  -  Kingfisher

READ MORE ....

School must be mandatory .....   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Thurs 30 Aug

As a grand father I am now at an age where schooling and education is right up there on the agenda where the little ones are now beginning their school life and this therefore has ...
   photo  -  teachers Laura Veloso and Rebecca Moore

READ MORE .....

WEDNESDAY 29 AUGUST

Sport:  Play Hard, Not Honourless    -   David Goodwin  (Melbourne)   -    Wed 29 Aug

When I made the big move to the big smoke, trading country life for city lights (well, the suburban ones, anyway), it seemed like a good time to try some new things with the new life. One of them saw me make a resolution to get involved in one of the team sports everyone in the country grew up playing, but had passed me by.....

READ MORE .....

Do we need another parachurch organisation   -   by Rachel Li  (Sydney)    -   Wed 29 Aug 

I was chatting with a friend the other day and he mentioned that his church struggles with finding young adults to become youth leaders. Many young adults from his church are involved in Christian groups in their universities so often they don’t have any time left in their week to volunteer for youth ministry back in their own church.

READ MORE ......

Welfare     -    by Amos Sale   (Auckland, NZ)    -    Wed 29 Aug

We need a balanced social welfare system, with good checks on those who abuse it. A system where those who need and ‘deserve’ assistance are justly supported. What we might qualify as the "deserving poor" and the "undeserving poor" are useful categories to fit social welfare recipients into....

READ MORE ......

Faith can be a deep breath   -   by Mayce Fischer  (Brisbane and USA)   -   Wed 29 Aug

Could a couple of breaths, drawn long and slow, be a declaration of trust? I type this from the middle of a bustling office, alongside my day planner marked up and down with scrawly, color-coded to-do lists galore. I help staff Discipleship Training Schools (which are intensive ..

READ MORE .....

​

Christian persecution changing in the West   -   by Ron Ross  (senior writer)  -  Wed 29 Aug

One would not have seen any secular or religious news in the past two years not to ask the question - is religious persecution closing in? I found these remarks interesting. "A genuine persecution of Christians does appear to be on the horizon. Anti-Christian sentiment has ...

READ MORE  .....

Caring too much for the local church    -   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Wed 29 Aug  

Some years ago I wrote in this column that the Barna Group, a Christian faith and life survey organisation based in the USA, identified three quite specific areas of behaviour that turns people off Christianity. These three might be summarised as follows:

READ MORE ....

TUESDAY 28 AUGUST

'Our' wedding day, but a celebration of 'many'   -   by Jia Pan Xiao  (Sydney)  -  Tues 28 Aug

I got married just over seven weeks ago.  It really was the best day of my life.  However, on a day when it was all about Jacqui and I, a day when everyone wanted to come see ‘us’, celebrate with ‘us’, and take photographs of ‘us’, we made sure to divert the attention .....
​
READ MORE .....

Generosity just isn't about money, but ....  -   by Brent Van Mourik  (Brisbane)   -  Tues 28 Aug

As someone who is effectively a fundraiser (among other things), I commonly hear the comment ‘generosity isn’t just about money.’  This is true, of course, but I don’t think those using the phrase always consider the outworking of this logic. Sometimes it’s used to unburden the speaker from giving financially, but I think it should represent a far greater  ....

READ MORE  ......

Turn to God for your inspiration  -   by Renee Jenner  (Sydney)    -    Tues 28 Aug

It took me a while to come up with what to write for this article.  After a full of week of University, finishing up a few assessments, I felt all dried up and had not much energy to write anything else.  Usually my mind is racing with ideas of what I’d like to write but I was ...

READ MORE .....

The war on our worship   -   by Brendon Collins  (Wellington NZ)   -   Tues 28 Aug

Biblical Worship would be one of the areas in my life since I was a child that has been the centre of who I am. When I was five years old, I would get up at 5am and wake up my whole family and even the neighbourhood with songs of praise and worship.....

READ MORE .....
 

The start of humility   -   by John Yates  (senior writer, Perth)  -  Tues 28 Aug

Famous entertainers, pumping sports stars, audacious politicians and the love of honour are characteristic our time. Amongst us, many pastors suffer from this sort of spiritual disease, “when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another,

READ MORE ......

Christian beliefs and the UK doctor - by John Skinner  (senior writer, Warwick) - Tues 28 Aug

An article in the English Sunday Telegraph a couple of months ago grabbed my attention and I summarise it here (I am a former journalist and instructed journalist cadets). The lead ....

READ MORE  ......

Saluting old diggers - a good    -    by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -  Tues 28 Aug 

The commemoration of the end of WWI is coming up – 11 November 2018.  The poems (below) commemorate all the returned servicemen who have done their bit to help defend

READ MORE ....

MONDAY 25 AUGUST

Saturday 1 Sept - 2018 young writer 'awards'   -   Press Service International  -  Mon 25 Aug 

The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today annual 'awards' for the young writers will be held on Saturday in Christchurch at the Salvation
  photo  -  Casey Murray - 2014 NZ Basil Sellers Young Writer Award, 2015 ARPA Gold Winner

READ MORE ......

The one    -    by Tom Anderson  (Ipswich)    -   Mon 27 Aug

The group was too small. An hour of my precious time for just two people?  Only ten likes. What a failure. I poured my heart into that piece. I’d hoped to reach more people than that.  Yes, I think like this. I measure success by counting the numbers. Yet God has reminded me that He has a different perspective....

READ MORE .....

The idea of Genius    -    by Jared Diprose  (Auckland, NZ)    -    Mon 27 Aug 

Those who experience creative flow are remarkable. Something that writers would call the opposite of "writers block". People get this feeling from time to time, usually when they are doing something that involves an element of creativity. I have experienced this doing a number of things; writing, thinking, making surfboards and various other projects.

READ MORE  .....

Tear down the walls, peel back the layers   -    by Jo Fuller  (Sunshine Coast)  -   Mon 27 Aug

My husband and I bought a ‘project house’ close to two years ago and we are slowly seeing it take shape. It has required the tearing down of some walls and the peeling back of many layers as we (mainly hubby!) re-build and restore our house. God has really spoken to me ...

READ MORE ......

Trending: Your church is too cliquey for me - by Shannon Munyard (Adelaide) - Mon 27 Aug

It’s the statements going around in young adult churches lately that break my heart. ‘I’ve tried to make friends, but these people are just so cliquey’, ‘I went there but I didn’t feel welcomed’, ‘I hate it when the church service finishes because I have no one to talk to’. But what moves me the most, and perhaps the reason why ‘church cliques’ have formed such an
​
READ MORE .....

They backed their own   -   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -  Mon 27 Aug  

The 1970's Dad's Army British television hit series has many telling lines, not least the very first program titled 'The Man and the Hour' where the opening scene has a post war function.

READ MORE  .....

Week 2   -   Cycle 7    -    AUGUST 2018  

FRIDAY 24 AUGUST

The constant companion   -   by Ethan Miller  (Auckland NZ)   -    Frid 24 Aug

Have you ever read something that left a profound impact on your life? About a year ago I read a chapter called the ‘Great Sin’ in C.S. Lewis’ book Mere Christianity. In just seven pages Lewis helped me to understand one of the largest issues within both the world and myself. I have never felt more convicted and yet so enlightened at the same time.  Lewis ...

READ MORE .....

An important guest   -   by Jesse Moore  (Sunshine Coast)   -   Frid 24 Aug 

Here's an unlikely situation, imagine God, the creator of the universe comes down to earth, knocks on your front door and asks to have dinner with you. What would you do? Many of us struggle with hosting close friends for dinner let alone God. If it were me, I think I would tell ..

READ MORE .....

Free-ish speech: status of religious liberty   -   by David Lean (Brisbane)   -   Frid 24 Aug

‘Religious beliefs are part of the humanity of every individual. In a civilised society, individuals respect each other’s beliefs. This enables them to live in harmony.’ – Lord Nicholls. Religious freedom is a hallmark of every free society. The ability to act in accordance with a moral will is a fundamental right, enshrined both within the principles of democracy and hundreds of...

READ MORE .....

A loving but fiery God    -    Emma Seabrook  (Melbourne)    -    Frid 24 Aug 

I mentioned God to a friend the other day and, predictably, she responded that she didn’t believe in God. It’s not unusual anymore and, as my own experience has questioned the truth of God, I could understand where she came from. Also predictably, she used the argument, “what type of God kills millions of his people because He was angry...like He did ..

READ MORE  .....

Heroes all    -    by Gavin Lawrie  (senior writer, Tweed Heads)   -   Frid 24 Aug

After the incredibly successful completion of an extremely dangerous rescue mission involving massive detailed planning and effort by rescuers, it is disappointing when the hero(es) are not immediately and lavishly praised. Young victims got it all - Initially, that seemed to be what had happened after the innocent young soccer team and their coach ...
​
READ MORE  ......

Weaponising our mistakes   -    by David Goodwin  (senior writer, Melb)   -   Frid 24 Aug

When Marvel first announced that they were making a movie based on what were a relatively obscure bunch of characters called the Guardians of the Galaxy, I was one of many people who were baffled at the choice, and thought even Marvel would struggle to find a way to make it yet another box office hit. But, from the moment I saw the trailer I found myself ...

READ MORE ....

Becoming complicit or apathetic   -   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Frid 24 Aug

Anzac means many things to many people and innumerable philosophical lessons have been of instruction to successive generations. One important subject that often gets lost in the stories of Anzac reflect the issue of complicity and apathy whether you're aware of it ....

READ MORE .....

THURSDAY 23 AUGUST

Mind the Plants     -     by Thomas Devenish  (Hobart)    -    Thurs 23 Aug

Indoor pot plants are all the rage these days – and for good reason. They are green and leafy, fresh and vibrant, purifying the air and bringing a touch of earthiness to the concrete walls that make up our office spaces. I love a good plant collection, and over the last year have steadily built up a collection of potted greenery.......

READ MORE  .......   

Keep only what is useful, beautiful and holy  -  Liana Monaghan  (Adelaide) - Thurs 23 Aug

Many people feel the need to declutter their homes so that their environment reflects order and beauty.  There are books on de-cluttering and how it blesses our soul, and how we thrive in ordered, minimalistic environments. Usually people do this de-cluttering when they move house or spring clean but some people do this regularly by asking the questions; what ....

READ MORE .....

Member of a church without .....  -   by Richard Kwon (Auckland NZ)   -   Thurs 23

Surprisingly, I have met a lot of Christians who are members of a church yet they are not really mingling along with their fellow church members. Some of them have been a member for quiet a number of years yet they keep a good distance getting involved socially with the church, even in fellowship....

READ MORE ........

Parent's choice     -     by Sarah Urmston  (Sydney)    -     Thurs 23 Aug

Some years ago, I had one of the biggest decisions of my life. It’s not whether or not to get married. Or taking on a new job. Or even deciding to try for a baby.  This is next-level important stuff! Naming my first-born child. I now have two children. I tell you what, that ...

READ MORE .......

Kiwi young writers option of going alone   -    Press Service International   -    Thurs 23 Aug

On Saturday 1 September - Christchurch Salvation Army Centre -  at the 2018 annual young writers conference, the Kiwi young writers have set time aside to discuss self determination.  The Kiwi young writer program was established in 2012 with a host of New Zealand ...

READ MORE  .....

Events that led to the Great War    -   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Thurs 23 Aug   

In all, 62,000 Australians and 18,000 New Zealanders died fighting during World War I, 1914-18, from respective populations of 4.5 million and 1.1 million.  Is there any serious thinking person who suggests that such a sacrifice would not go unnoticed in either ....

READ MORE .......

WEDNESDAY 22 AUGUST

Sport as Worship    -    Jeremy Dover  -  Sport writer  (Melbourne)   -   Wed 22 Aug

One of the great challenges for Christians today is how to integrate being a follower of Jesus into every aspect of life. Dutch Pastor Abraham Kuyper proclaimed, “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!” If every thought and every aspect of our life is to be captive to ...

READ MORE .....

Missionary mindset in the everyday   -    by Miranda Menelaws  (Kingaroy)   -   Wed 22 Aug  

Only a few short years ago, I was considered a full-time missionary and spent much of my time surrounded by other Christians who were actively living out the lifestyle that comes alongside mission-related work.Often when we hear about missionaries, we picture ....

READ MORE .....

Gaming obsession   -    by Michael Dalhenburg  (Adelaide)   -   Wed 22 Aug

I have been aware for some time, of conversations with my wife and her friends about their husband’s computer gaming obsessions. ‘After dinner, most nights he just goes to bed and plays on the Xbox until I come to bed hours later…’ one mum said. I was quite surprised ...

READ MORE .....

Let food by thy medicine   -   by Meenal Sim (nee Chandra)  Sydney   -   Wed 22 Aug 

This is a a little bit of a different article this month, however this topic has been on my mind for quite some time and thought it was right for me to have a voice on it. A topic we don’t really hear about on the platform as Christians, is around healthy eating and exercise. In ...

READ MORE ......

Friends      -    by Amy Ching  (Auckland NZ)    -     Wed 22 Aug  

I have a simple thought: Everyone needs good friends. Good friends are reflection of our gifts and flaws and they are with us throughout every season of our lives. I knew my best friends for about 15 years now. We went through school together and even though we live on different sides of the world now, we genuinely take interest in one another’s lives, knowing ...

READ MORE .....
​

The Olive tree - a symbol    -    by Ron Ross  (senior writer)  -   Wed 22 Aug

The unique connection between Jews and Christians is sometimes a fierce debate but the Bible indicates our relationship is found in the symbol of the olive tree. The prophet Jeremiah described Israel as a ‘green olive tree.’ (Jeremiah chapter 11, verse 16) but the Apostle Paul wrote to the church saying: “For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and ..

READ MORE .....

Finding the names continues   -   by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -   Wed 22 Aug

My visit to Auschwitz in 2005 was an experience that will live indelibly upon my heart for my life time. I was part of an International delegation of 48 Gentiles from around the world, ....

READ MORE ......

TUESDAY 21 AUGUST

Defiant hope: a reflection on resilience  -  by Emma McGeorge  (Auckland NZ) -  Tues 21 Aug

It is, apart from anything else, a thought-provoking place to come to, the depths of despair. I’m not saying it’s a nice place necessarily, or even a place that I plan on spending air points credits to visit for the odd holiday. How many of us look around with beaming satisfaction ...

READ MORE ......

You won't have eternal life in heaven: II  -  by Haydn Lea  (RAAF Padre)  -  Tues 21 Aug

In my last article, dear Theophilus, I set out to explain that Christians will spend eternity in a perfected, glorified, physical New Creation, not heaven per se. The article explains that eventually, God will bring about a new creation where we dwell forever with Him, not as disembodied souls, but as physical beings. However, that is the end state, and a few people

READ MORE  .....

God loves me more   -   by Anna Waite  (Brisbane)   -   Tues 21 Aug 

Who am I? What a question! I’ve been pondering this a lot recently. As a chronic over thinker I don’t think I’ve ever really stopped asking myself this, but this year it’s taken on a whole new meaning for me. A number of years ago I started to hear the phrase ‘create the life you want’. It was one of those ‘inspirational’ phrases ......

READ MORE .......

Are you a 2-D or a 3-D Christian   -   by John Lemmon  (senior writer Melb)  -  Tues 21 Aug

Recall when you were going to school and had classes in geometry. (Yes, I can hear you groaning…but bear with me!) In geometry we learned about the shape of objects and learned to visualise them in one, two or three dimensions. Two-dimensional items were flat and lifeless, being defined by only length and width. They were simple and…well…boring. ....

READ MORE .....

When being a Christian makes you    -   by Nils Von Kalm  (senior writer Melb)  -  Tues 21 Aug

In light of the comments some time back by US Attorney General Jeff Sessions on Romans 13 and the plight of people seeking asylum, I have been reminded to think about what it means to be Christian. Recently I listened to a sermon by God's Squad founder, John Smith, in which he talked about the evidence of a follower of Jesus....

READ MORE ......

It led to inevitable war   -   Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)   -   Tues 21 Aug

In our family archives is a newspaper cutting from the Sydney Morning Herald dated Thursday 30 March 1939, with a photograph of Adolf Hitler the Chancellor of Germany sitting
READ MORE ......
​

MONDAY 20 AUGUST

Queensland young writers well established  -  Press Service International  -  Mon 20 Aug

Queensland young writers have become well established in their numbers increased significantly in this past two years and we are celebrating.  The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today provide publishing columns for ....
  photo  -  Qld young writer Zach Radloff, listed last week in the Most Popular column
​
READ MORE  ......

Jesus - like women     -     by Cartia Moore  (Sunshine Coast)   -    Mon 20 Aug

I was never the sort of person that would ever be seen at a women’s conference. The thought of a room full of estrogen and high-pitched screaming voices all singing in unison (sometimes not) slightly freaked me out. Ironic, isn’t it? But it wasn’t until recently that I went to my first official women’s conference at my church.....

READ MORE .....

Personal responsibility, not drugs and ....   by Ben Kruzins  (Ocean Shores)  -   Mon 20 Aug

The community was rightfully outraged by Magistrate Ross Betts’s decision to grant bail to Frankston tradie Ryan Wells after a sickening one punch assault in South East Melbourne recently. For those unaware of the details, the video of the assault was captured on CCTV and you can easily google, “Ryan Wells one punch assault video” to see how  ....

READ MORE  ......

When a leader makes a mistake   -   by Esther Koh  (New Zealand)  -    Mon 20 Aug

The news is constantly reporting the lives of people in authority. Sharp eagle eyes are ever on our nation's prime minister and leaders. Pastors are under scrutiny and their actions, more often the negative ones, are highlighted in the media, just like the trending news of a megachurch pastor’s affair with a teenage church member....
​
READ MORE  ......

Living Rightly   -   by Joseph Kolapudi  (Brisbane)   -   Mon 20 Aug  

For some, living in the present can be harder than remembering the past; while for others, it is vice versa. I have been looking over the past few months, and it is hard to believe just how hard it is to remember what has happened - it all seems a big blur.  Yet living a life worth remembering is not dependent on ourselves, or on our perception of either the past or ....
​
READ MORE  ........

Australia's part in developing the Holocaust   -   Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)  -   20 Aug

The Holocaust had many bedfellows both within and without Nazi Germany, people who did nothing to express their horror, on the one hand, or on the other, actively assisted the eventual process of mass extermination of the Jews. .....

READ MORE ....

Week 1 - Cycle 7  -  AUGUST 2018

FRIDAY 17 AUGUST

The thirsty God    -    by Christina Jones  (USA)   -   Frid 17 Aug

In the late 1600s a book was published by the French theologian and mathematician Blaise Pascal titled “Penses” (meaning “Thoughts”). In it he wrote, “What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace?

READ MORE .....

Is this a church or a night club?    by Kandima Awendila  (Mozambique)   -   Frid 17 Aug

As I entered the dark room with flashing bright colourful lights that were cutting through the darkness like lightning bolts, I instantly questioned whether I had entered the doors of a church or had stepped into a nightclub.  The loud music and the immediate comment by a ..

READ MORE  .....

Jesus 24/7    -    by Jeremy Dover  (senior writer, Melbourne)   -    Frid 17 Aug

One of the great challenges for Christians today is how to integrate being a follower of Jesus into every aspect of life. Going to church on Sunday is an easy act of worship to understand. However, what does worship on Monday look like? What does being a disciple of Jesus look like for the rest of the week?

READ MORE .....

Who shares the Christian Salvation .....    by Genevieve Wilson  (sw Canada)   -   Frid 17 Aug

What shall I do to be saved?” was the question on the lips of early Christians (see Acts chapter 2 verses 37; 16:30) and it remains true for many people today. In fact, this is the most important question anyone can ask, because unless you know the answer to this crucial question and respond appropriately you cannot be saved from eternal hell.

READ MORE  .......

The Cross implies Resurrection / End Times  -  Mark Tronson (Tweed Heads) - Frid 17 Aug

What can be said is that one in twenty five verses in the New Testament have some engagement with End Times and associated themes, and therefore it should come as no ...

READ MORE  ......
 

Aust and NZ do well in Olympic sports   -  by Josh Hinds  (Gold Coast)   -  Frid 17 Aug

Australia and New Zealand’s major professional sports  -  take Rugby, Cricket, AFL, NRL excel but in a limited market place – mostly Commonwealth nations. England, Wales, Ireland, South Africa …..  It may be of interest that these senior sports celebrated by huge crowds and supporters have a relatively low participant statistics. Rather, the kids of the nation play ..

READ MORE ......

THURSDAY 16 AUGUST

How I can('t) comfortably hate   -   by Sunny Kang  (New Zealand)    -   Thurs 16 Aug

Perhaps sighs are the overflows of emptiness inside. What’s terrifying is that I once prayed for You to show me how to love like You, but now I am not so sure. I’m still so evil that I want to put ‘being a sinner’ as a valid excuse not to love. So that I can ‘comfortably hate’. I know that hate is not the opposite of love – negligence is. Ignorance may not be a fault, but .....

READ MORE  .....

Answers for all     -    by Paul Lewis  (West Indies)    -    Thurs 16 Aug

I have been studying apologetics for ten years now and it has become an important part of my life. Not only have my studies provided me with answers, but I have seen apologetics equip Christians to provide an answer to everyone.  As I read, think, wrestle, argue and discuss, I realise a good way to approach apologetics is to think about giving answers and ...

READ MORE ......

What are you waiting for    -   by Ashley Mullens  (USA)    -    Thurs 16 Aug

Like many of you, I am well acquainted with waiting and disappointments. After getting married in my mid-twenties - with plenty of waiting and disappointments before - we started trying to have a baby. I’ve always wanted to be a mother and imagined we would get pregnant right away.

READ MORE .....

Laguna Quays Respite 2nd half of 2018   -   Press Service International (PSI)  -  Thurs 16 Aug

The Whitsundays Laguna Quays Respite coordinated by Well-Being Australia for missions now in its seventh year has proven to be a lovely break away for a wide range of those in Christian service. The 2nd half of 2018 has a busy schedule.  
   photo  -   Delma Tronson on Midge Point Beach
READ MORE ......

The idea of Justice    -     by Mark Tronson  (Tweed Heads)    -    Thurs 16 Aug

Every person recognises an unjust act (said, inferred, implied or done) and their heart cries “foul” although they may not be able to do anything to right the injustice. Injustice plays out its hand in many different forms, from a selection in a child’s sporting team; to one daughter getting new clothes and the second getting hand-me-downs; or in business, corruption ...

READ MORE ......

WEDNESDAY 15 AUGUST

Remembering the unforgettable God   -   by Aaron Sabio  (USA)    -   Wed 15 Aug

One of my favorite Bible teachers once said a statement that has never left me. He said, “The regret of the past and the fear of the future are the twin enemies of the soul.”  He explained how the mistakes he had made in the past had crippled him and how the unpridictipleness of the future had almost crushed his spirit. I totally related to this ....

READ MORE  ......

The truth about people in two words   -   by Sharma Taylor  (West Indies)   -    Wed 15 Aug

There’s a gem of wisdom I’ve gleaned over decades of my life experience, plus from observing the lives and experiences of people I know, in addition to extensive research. I have condensed my conclusion into two words. Ready for it?  Here goes:  People .....

READ MORE .....

Potential    -    by Mel Cleary  (New Zealand)   -    Wed 15 Aug

If you’re anything like me, you may be a believer in the phrase ‘Why do today what you can do tomorrow?’ Welcome to my world of procrastination. The Slippery Slope  -  Procrastination is a slippery slope. When an assignment is due, I’ll leave it for as long as possible. Even simple things like dinner or doing a load of laundry I tend to put off for as long as possible ...

READ MORE  .....
.

Calling a time on terror was too soon   -    by Ron Ross  (senior writer)   -   Wed 15 Aug 

Two years ago I wrote in this column that we may be witnessing a revolution. I commented that out of the then recent spate of bloodshed and terror a movement of hope is emerging. French Muslim leaders refused to bury priest-killer Adel Kermiche after he murdered 86 years old priest Father Jacques Hamel last July......

READ MORE .......

The idea of Relationship    -   Press Service International  (PSI)   -   Wed 15 Aug

“Relationship with the Lord” is central to Christian theology in taking God at His Word as revealed to us in the Bible. From the beginning of the Bible in Genesis the idea of a ...
  photo  -  "family links"   -   a Tronson du Coudray art work

READ MORE .......

TUESDAY 14 AUGUST

And He promised peace   -   by Matthew Thornton  (New Zealand)  -  Tues 14 Aug

Lately, I’ve been wrestling with the idea of God’s peace.  For so long I thought that peace was simply the feeling of comfort, tranquillity and ease. Whilst it is these things, I’ve come to realise that it is so much more than that. Over Easter, I attended New Zealand’s Northern Baptist Youth Ministries Easter Camp in Hamilton.....

READ MORE ......

How leaning-In reveals new adventure   -   by Charis Joy Jackson  (USA)   -   Tues 14 Aug

A leaning in life is a ZOE life.  A quick Strong’s Concordance study of the Greek word Zoe reveals this:  1. life  a. the state of one who is possessed of vitality or is animate   b. every living soul    2. life   a. of the absolute fulness of life, both essential and ethical, which ....

READ MORE .......

Benefits and pitfalls of routine   -   by Jason LaLone  (USA)   -    Tues 14 Aug

I can’t stop traveling. It’s like a deep seed that God placed inside me when He knitted me together. Why would I spend my money on something else when I can spend it on seeing the world? There is so much that I haven’t seen. So many experiences that I haven’t experienced. So much coffee and food that I haven’t tasted. So many mountain tops that ...

READ MORE .....

Quick, quick, slow    -    by Rosie Robinson  (England)  -    Tues 14 Aug

 As I sit here on my bed, the wind is swirling round the dust and sun-drenched leaves.  They are like brown husks – lying in snow-like drifts across the road and paths.  It is a bizarre scene, in the middle of our summer. I am not sure whether I should be ordering yellow or black tops! .....

READ MORE ......

Global warming or global warning?   -   by Mark Rusic  (senior writer)  -   Tues 14 Aug

Decades of drought has left many Australian farmers in a dire situation.  With large numbers of Australian farmers and cattlemen on the brink of losing their livelihood after decades of drought the situation this year is more desperate than ever. And what is even more concerning for many is that weather experts say that relief is nowhere in sight. 

READ MORE .....

Does Androgyny Presage Disaster? or ....    by Vic Matthews  (senior writer)  -  Tues 14 Aug

According to Professor Camille Paglia, (Feminist & Lesbian) in her recent book “Free Women, Free Men”,  Androgyny portends the imminent destruction of Western civilization. Before we explore the wide frontiers of this ominous prediction, let me unpack it for you.  Androgyny is when a person doesn’t have a definitive view of their gender. There is an ...
​
READ MORE .....

The idea of Faith    -    Press Service International  (PSI)    -    Tues 14 Aug

In theology, the word ‘Faith’ conveys a most astonishing idea, something that is contrary to everything that we would normally consider as being physically and scientifically reliable.  Faith is a living reality and Martin Luther realised it’s full 'moment' when he re-read Romans ..
  art  -  Three Images  -  (Tronson du Coudray)  -  hanging in Jeremy Dover's private collection

READ MORE  .......

MONDAY 13 AUGUST

South Australian young writers  -  'Christian News'  -  Mon 13 Aug

South Australian young writers have expanded their numbers significantly in this past 12 months and we should be celebrating this.  The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today provide publishing columns for these young ..
 photo  -   Adelaide's Michael Dahlenburg, sends to new young writers the 'info pack'
​
Read More .....

You are Fake news    -    by Josh Robbie  (South Africa)   -    Mon 13 Aug

It is easier to make reference to reality than it is to live in it. The term ‘fake news’ has now become a part of our modern vocabulary, to the disgust of those whose job it is to report actual newsworthy events. The offense is understandable, nobody likes a finger in their face condemning their efforts as fake. In the moment your mind would naturally perceive the ....

READ MORE .....

Honour God with what he gives to us   -   Cindy Cheng  (China)  -   Mon 13 Aug

Last Sunday afternoon, I was told that someone in church donated $150 to me. I was astonished at the very beginning and didn’t believe that the money was for me. After further confirmation with the church, I was assured that the donation was for me and I ought to ....

READ MORE .......

When I turned 30    -    by Stacy-Ann Smith  (West Indies)   -     Mon 13 Aug

I recall when I turned 30. It stated $481 Jamaican dollars. That was the amount of money the ABM (ATM) receipt indicated I had left in my account. In US dollars that is $4.81. I chuckled at the number. I had so many desires in my heart and my pocket could not even begin to ...

READ MORE .......

Dream small   -   by Jessica McPherson  (New Zealand)   -    Mon 13 Aug 

“Good to Great!” “Smarter, Faster, Better!” “How to stop doubting your greatness and start living an awesome life!” Self help books abound telling us how we can become smarter, prettier, more likeable, and generally all around amazing so that we will be able to start ...

Read More ......

The idea of Grace   -    Press Service International (PSI)   -   Mon 13 Aug   

In theology, the word ‘Grace’ conveys a most alarming idea, something that is contrary to everything that we would normally consider as fair and just. Grace is a personal attitude ....
 photo  -   a Tronson du Coudray art work "Options"

Read More  ......

Week 5  -  Cycle 6  -  AUGUST 2018   

FRIDAY 10 AUGUST

Usain Bolt keen to play professional soccer   -   PSI   -    Frid 10 Aug

The world’s greatest athlete Usain Bolt from Jamaica, Olympic sprint super star and holder of so many records the computer listing them did a fizzer, has come to Australia to try out with the Central Coast Mariners A-League squad to make an entrance into the world of professional soccer. We know from the media that Usain Bolt is a soccer nut. He watches the EPL like a hawk, he knows player’s names and the wherewithal of coaching methodologies and is fully conversant with the A-League......

READ MORE  ......

Gender confiscation    -    by Leigh Clough  (Gold Coast)  -    Frid 10 Aug 

The tee shirt read – “Love is the answer” – I saw this one gloriously sunny day on the Gold Coast during summer as I noticed a busty, blonde girl canter across the street to avoid oncoming traffic.  I love clothes not for just the expression of our desired style or expression of feeling at the time, but also as a means of proclaiming something we believe in for others to see ....

READ MORE ......

On being and the revelation of process   -    by Kali Hendrickson  (USA)   -    Frid 10 Aug

Elizabeth Gilbert, in an On Being podcast, mentioned something she noticed about the creative Spirit and ideas. Ideas want to be found, and sometimes multiple people at different times find the same exact idea. It used to irritate me to find out the very idea I’ve been so innovative in dreaming up has been discovered elsewhere. I had a particular view of God that I felt I had to perform for....

READ MORE ......

What I think of the Presonus Studio Live 5    -    by Zach Radloff IT writer  -   Frid 10 Aug

The studio live console from Presonus is an interesting console. While I’m more of an X32 guy my self I have had some time with the SL3 and in this article, I want to share my thoughts on the console. The particular SKU I’ve been using is the SL3-24. This is the 24-channel version of the SL3 console but a 16 and 32 channel SKUs are also available. The initial things I liked about it were: ....

READ MORE .....

Those pesky labels   -   by Matt Browning NZ senior writer  -    Frid 10 Aug

I grew up with a black and white Christianity. A “this is right—and that is wrong” approach to the world. For instance, alcohol and homosexuality were bad, attending church good and praying daily even better.  As I’ve got older I can no longer stomach such simplified responses to the world around me. After travelling to many countries and meeting thousands of people, I know that every person has a very intimate and sacred story, a background that comes with them.

READ MORE ......

Rail calls for trucking charges to reflect road use  -   PSI   -    Frid 10 Aug

The Footplate Padre is an author of 16 railway books and in several of those tomes he called for more haulage to be placed on rail due to issues such as safety and economics, and this new call is one ....

READ MORE .....

THURSDAY 9 AUGUST

The Great Commission    -     by Mary Iengo  (Adelaide)   -    Thus 9 Aug  

Does anyone find that the most difficult aspect of writing is how to start your piece?  What do people call it? Writer’s block? (Well technically I’m not a writer, per say, as this is my first article! Wow!  Anyway, after pondering on how to start my article for a good hour I thought I may as well start by: Introducing myself…  So, my name is Mary Iengo.  I’m a 19 year-old from Adelaide. I have an American and Italian background and some of my favourite things that I enjoy eating are hoagies and pizza ......

READ MORE  .......

The love of God     -     by Elizabeth Josic  (Sunshine Coast)   -     Thurs 9 Aug

When we pick out people at random, it’s highly likely that most of them don’t know what the true meaning of love is.  Although they may think they know, based on the romantic love portrayed in movies and television shows. In times when we pick up our Bible and begin to study to word of God, our eyes are opened to the true meaning.

READ MORE ......

Being a truth teller    -    by Wayne Graham  NZ senior writer  -    Thurs 9 Aug

Maarametua Williams has been off the drug P for 18 months and is now helping others leave P behind.  We did a story on her in the Daily Encourager in which she described what P will do to you: All it takes is one puff ….   You will lose your dignity, family, friends, job, happiness, mind and pride —   You will rob, steal, cheat, lie and beg —   And end up broke, alone, homeless, in prison or dead.....

READ MORE .....

Young writer's conference in 3 weeks   -   PSI    -   Thurs 9 Aug 

The 2018 young writer conference will be held in Christchurch on Saturday 1 September at the Salvation Army Conference Centre, Colombo Street – just three weeks away. .....

Photo  -   Dr Kristen Dang, an Adelaide young writer is attending the young writer conference   

READ MORE  .......

WEDNESDAY 8 AUGUST

Don't talk, just listen   -   by Laura Miles  (Sunshine Coast)  -    Wed 8 Aug

One afternoon I went to the beach and was laying in the sunshine, breathing deeply and reflecting deeper. I was looking for some well-needed headspace and the ocean has always been a soother to my soul (without fail). My thoughts were scrambled; cluttered with doubts about the future and cloudy with the fog of unresolved pain and hurt.

Read More ......

The refining of the Lord   -   by Christopher Harris  (Melbourne)   -    Wed 8 Aug

Since growing more mature in the Lord I have understood in many ways how the Lord is refining me. While the Lord can communicate to each of us in different ways in our lives, He has shown me many things about my character through dreams for the purposes of refining me. The Bible talks about how believers in Christ are being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ (Romans chapter 8 verse 29), and Apostle Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ....

Read More .......

It never ends   -    by Grant Harris  NZ senior writer  -   Wed 8 Aug  

I’ve recently returned from leading an Exposure Trip to Los Angeles with a group of senior high school students from our youth group.  It’s a trip we undertake bi-annually as we serve with The Dream Center, a street ministry reaching Skid Row and some of the challenging areas of LA, and as we seek .....
Read More ......

TUESDAY 7 AUGUST

Surviving police interrogation in Turkey  -  by Daniel Jang  NZ senior writer  -   Tues 7 August

Once I was visiting a Syrian refugee home in rural Turkey and a police van arrived on a “tip”. An angry Turkish man stormed into the house and shouted: “Why are you giving out Incil [Turkish New Testament]

​Read More .......

Remember me   -   by Amy Manners  (Adelaide) -    Tues 7 Aug

I type in the code. Beep, beep, beep: Access Granted. Electric doors slide slowly open and I see him sitting at a table. I see him before he sees me. White hair, pin-striped blue shirt, chipped front tooth. And my heart swells with affection. “Hello Bobby,” I say, wrapping my arms around him, whispering in his ear, “I’m your granddaughter, Amy, and I love you very much.” 

Read More .....

Weep for the culture   -   by Jarred Pienaar  (Sunshine Coast)  -    Tues 7 Aug 

History is full of lessons of the mistakes of humanity. We look into the past and we read, hear and see testimonies of people who lived in what would seem to be some of the most horrific times in human history. Recently videos of holocaust survivors from the world wars have been popping up on my .... 

 Read More  .......

MONDAY 6 AUGUST

Research  -  value add to Laguna Quays Respite  -   PSI    -    Mon 6 Aug

A recent article in The Guardian illustrates the value of to our well-being of enjoying a lovely view and this is in line with Well-Being Australia's Laguna Quays Respite facility for missionaries and their recuperation on the Whitsundays. Oliver Burkman in this article
Read More ......

Oi - Listen Up!     -    by Fiona Mackenzie  (Sydney)   -    Mon 6 Aug

I recently found myself sitting in the emergency rows of a domestic flight. The safety briefly annoying for commuters, but necessary as part of the flying process. “Sir, would you mind putting your phone away and listening. I only need your attention for two minutes,” the flight attendant politely asked the commuter. 

​Read More ......

Walking in faith   -   by Ashley Menelaws  (Kingaroy)  -   Mon 6 Aug   

Each of us have had our lives turned upside down. It happened again two weeks ago when a close friend died. One minute I can see the end, the light at the end of the tunnel if you will and then next no light and no clear direction. It has left me with many questions. But my biggest question that keeps me awake late at night with only the fan to break the silence, how? How does one have faith despite all odds and reality screaming "sorry it doesn't seem possible?"

Read More ......

Sport Writers a shining light   -    PSI    -   Mon 6 Aug

Jeremy Dover, David Goodwin, Wes Tronson, Josh Hinds (photo) and Phil Hall are our sport writers, who week at a time, each write a sport article once every five weeks. They compete for the annual Tony Dunkerely 'Sport Writers Award' which last year (2017) saw a four way draw with Jeremy, Josh, David and Wes taking the honours. 
Previous winners of the Sport Writers awards .....

Read More .....

Week 4  -  Cycle 6   -   JULY-AUGUST 2018 

FRIDAY 3 AUGUST

Life is good   -   by Rebecca Moore  Aust senior writer   -    Frid 3 Aug

I can count on my hand the number of times when I thought I was going to die—and I’m not talking about when I let my husband drive! (Though he’s never had an accident in Australia he says). One near-death experience was when as a teenager, I was caught in a rip while swimming at the beach on my boogie-board....

Read More .....

Is being religious really that bad   -   by Conor Ryan  (Adelaide)  -    Frid 3 Aug

One of the hang-ups that religious people seem to have these days is self-consciousness about being religious. Many Christians want to make a distinction between their personal faith in Christ and something else that they deem 'religious'. They have an image in their mind of religious people and they are eager to distinguish themselves from them.....

Read More .....

Being a victim of online scammers   -   by Bridget Brenton  (Brisbane)   -   Frid 3 Aug

It could happen to anyone, and last week it happened to me.  I got scammed.  I sometimes buy artwork off of DeviantArt.  As the name suggests, you find all sorts on that website, although I’ve found a couple of genuine Christian artists there thankfully. There are a few things that I should have done to be wiser with my interactions online .....
​
Read More .....

What is it about escapism, media and technology -  by Brandon Tsang (Syd)  -   Frid 3 Aug

To relax after a day of work, I would either watch a movie on Netflix or play video games as many Australian do. On reflection, the two main reasons why I enjoy this is because it allows me to embark on a journey through artists’ universes or that it allows me to role play a ...

Read More .......

Communication is the key    -   by Menuele Teofilo  (New Zealand)   -    Frid 3 Aug 

I survived without a cell phone for over a month. My cracked screen ended up taking this long to get fixed. The screen that the phone repair guy ordered took a while to arrive. I got annoyed at how much time it was taking because my cell phone is the main way I use to contact people.....

Read More ......

THURSDAY 2 AUGUST

Standing up against distortion   -  by Roydon Ng  (Sydney)   -    Thurs 2 Aug

It is not surprising that liberals are upset at Donald Trump’s nominee to the Supreme Court of the United States. The announcement of Judge Brett Kavanaugh, who arguably is a textualist and fairly originalist interpreter of the US constitution, is of significant concern to liberals ...

Read More  ......

An adventure in reducing waste   -   by Lucinda Glover  (Hobart)  -   Thurs 2 Aug

Like many Australians, last year I watched the ABC’s War on Waste program, hosted by Craig Reucassel. What an eye-opening, horrifying, depressing reality! Australians have become some of the worst wasters in the world. We use and abuse our resources like there’s no tomorrow.

Read More ......

Play or learn, why not both?   -   by Sam Gillespie  (Sydney)  -   Thurs 2 Aug

Isn’t our capacity to learn when we are having fun amazing! Video games are often rolled out when this subject comes up and I think it is for good reason. My childhood involved playing a lot of games, purely imaginary games, board games, card games and off into the virtual ...

Read More ....

Do not be afraid   -    by Rebecca Horverd  (New Zealand) -   Thurs 2 Aug

“"Fearless" is not the absence of fear. It's not being completely unafraid. To me, fearless is having fears, having doubts, lots of them. To me, fearless is living in spite of those things that scare you to death.” - Taylor Swift.

Read More ......
​

WEDNESDAY 1 AUGUST

 Separated Churches and Nations: Blessings for the .....  by Phil Hall  -  Wed 1 Aug

“Proddies, proddies, ring the bell. While the Catholics go to hell.” My mother heard variants of this sung between the Catholic and Protestant school kids when she was growing up. I have never heard or seen anything like this outside of football fans heckling each other. I grew up..

Read More  .....

The 7 P's of counterfeit love  -   by Justin Monaghan  (Adelaide)  -   Wed 1 Aug

In my travels as a corporate team builder I always find myself ‘eavesdropping for God’ or lately just using my eyes and seeing the disconnection of people to people interaction. As I travel on the planes, the trains, Ubers, or just walking the streets of the big cities which I work in I’m constantly astounded how far we are removed from the ability to talk to another.

Read More ......

Shine bright   -   by Josiah Gray  (Sunshine Coast)   -    Wed 1 Aug

“Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticise you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Hold firmly to the word of life…” Philippians Chapter 2 Verses 14-16 NLT.  These are words that Paul, a champion of the faith, wrote to the Church in Philippi,..

Read More ......

Content but not satisfied  -  by Cindy Adwong  (New Zealand) -  Wed 1 Aug

We as Christians should live a contented life. Grateful for what God has given us, rather than focusing on what we do or do not have. Being content at each stage of life. But this is also where I believe many Christians get stuck. ......
Read More .......

TUESDAY 31 JULY

The persecution complex of evangelicals  -   by Cheryl McGrath  (Melb)  -  Tues 31 July 

Plenty of ink has been spilled over the decay of cultural Christianity and the possibility of Christian persecution in Australia. Christianity is still rated at 52 percent of the population, whether nominal or active. Christians can worship openly here. You may receive ridicule for your views, but you can still publish an open letter in a national newspaper and no one .....

Read More ......

Feeling a little bit sensitive  -   by Jessica Curry  (Brisbane)  -    Tues 31 July  

I have been really aware recently of the hurt and pain that is in our world. I know that seems like a broad statement, but when I think about issues such as abortion, sex slavery, asylum seekers, and gender confusion, I am almost overwhelmed by the pain, anger, confusion ....

Read More ........

Moving into new territory   -   by Hannah Edwards  (Brisbane)  -    Tues 31 July

Stepping into new territory takes a heck of a lot of courage. As if we are walking onto a freshly frozen lake we are cautious. Testing. We think we may have heard from God, the still small whisper of the Holy Spirit and we’ve become a touch uncomfortable. This word is ....

Read More ......

God's comfort  -  our place of rest   -   by Rachel Bartlett  (Christchurch)  -   Tues 31 July

Two years ago I commenced new employment as a junior staff worker with Christian Union. As I look back to that time. blessings came with new beginnings, as everything was fresh and exciting. My day-to-day life was filled with opportunities to talk with students at Canterbury University about Jesus, which was an amazing privilege. .....

Read More ......

MONDAY 30 JULY

4 lies we should stop believing about success  -  by Bonnie Dowie  (Adel)  -   Mon 30 July

How do you define success?  The answer to this question will greatly impact the way you live your life. Whatever we consciously or subconsciously see as indicators of success will become our guideposts as we move through life, determining the direction we take. In Western culture, definitions of success are commonly individualistic in nature and seem to ...

Read More .......

A redeemed past, a fresh future  -  by Caitlyn Furler  (Sunshine Coast) -   Mon 30 July

In the world of movies and TV series, trailers are a big deal. These short little snippets of new and upcoming films are cleverly and interestingly woven together in the space of two minutes to catch a viewer’s attention, spark their interest and inspire them to come see the movie....  

Read More ......

When God uses the unexpected  -  Melissa Ramoo  (Sydney)  -  Mon 30 July

Recently I was on holidays with my husband in the USA. We used Uber for most of our journeys around and we met a variety of interesting drivers. But none were as interesting as T. T picked us up in Los Angeles and we had a one and half hour trip with her. ....

Read More ....

Basil Sellers Midge Point Art Prize - 2018 Betty Moxham   -   PSI   -   Mon 30 July

The 2018 winner of the Basil Sellers Midge Point Art Prize is held Saturday 28 July at The Point Tavern over a morning tea was Midge Point artist Betty Moxham.  Betty’s winning art work “My home among the gum trees” was selected from one of nine finalists by the ....
Read More .....

Week 3  -  Cycle 6   -   JULY

FRIDAY 27 JULY

Winter Festival   -   by Christopher Archibald  (Sydney)   -   Frid 27 July

With winter in full swing, my church holds a festival for the community. It’s always a big event and having an afternoon of kids games, music and BBQ food is great to be a part of.  The festival was free to everyone – whether it was pulled pork BBQ rolls, make-your-own taco station, sausage on bread, beef kebab skewers, sodas, milkshakes, cakes, biscuits, ....
Read More .....

Finding the 'perfect' church (is it possible)  -  by Tim Price  (USA)  -   Frid 27 July

There’s a growing desire amongst Christians today to find a church that ‘fits’.
Unfortunately, this search is often mischaracterised as a shallow, vain, or even unbiblical pursuit. Selfish and petty motives are suspected. Leaving is often followed by a rolling of eyes followed by the exasperated line, “More Christians wanting the ‘perfect’ church!” Not all Christians are justified in this quest. Some have been guilty of flitting from place to place simply because the music is too loud,...
Read More ......

I know it, but I struggle to believe it   -   by Steve Cole  (Grafton)  -   Frid 27 July

My wife, the children and me three months ago were making tracks back towards home after a holiday in sunny Brisbane. We had filled up the tank before we left and our reading on the gauge was fifty kilometers shy of our destination. As we neared home it was evident that we were, by the car's calculations, not going to make it! .....
Read More .....

A letter from father to son on his 18th birthday  -  by Russell Modlin  (senior) - Frid 27 July

A letter to my son on the occasion of his 18th birthday.  It might seem a weird present to give from a father to a son- a towel. But it is the symbolism that is important, along with the Bible verse I have placed on it.  A microfibre towel as a symbol? ......
Read More .......

The Gospel of Jesus Christ one continuous story  -  by Kevin Park (NZ)  -   Frid 27 July

I write for our church’s adult youth program to assist in the broadening of their understanding of the Scriptures. This is a recent one on helping understanding the Old Testament’s purpose.  I commenced my presentation from 2 Peter chapter 3 verses 8-9   “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a .....
Read More .....

THURS 26 JULY

The wild west - Western guilt in a hurting world - by Brett Van Mourik (Bris) - Thurs 26 July

I need to make a confession about my car: It’s a mid-range Mazda. I know, I know, a mid-range Mazda is not a big deal in Australia, the ‘lucky country.’ But mid range or not, this car was recently a source of guilt for me. I work in aid and development, and recently, as I walked through the car park at work, I noticed that a colleague of mine, a man in a similar job but with a different organization, owned a car much like mine. I thought to myself, “he has a similar style of car to me…
Read More .......

Man's biggest problem  -  Renee Jenner  (Sydney) -   Thurs 26 July

I remember an intense week away on a youth camp, being asked a question - what is wrong with the world? I immediately answered sin. Others had mentioned man's selfishness, greed and other specific sins. Looking back now I wonder what I really meant when I said sin. Did I just mean that the world was really dark and evil and there was just so much suffering? Or did I mean something more?  
Read More ......

An encouragement to use lighter fluid   -   by Mayce Fischer  (USA)  -  Thurs 26 July  

A few weeks ago, at a birthday bar-b-que on a sticky Texas evening, I had an experience that made my spirit feel like it bumped into an electric fence. Do you know the feeling I’m talking about? That sudden quickening of your excitement when something reminds you how real God is, or how truly near He is to us?

Read More ....
​

Young writer reviews - No.9    -     PSI     -    Thurs 26 July  

The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today has each Week's editor or coordinator write a review of their week the week after publication.  This is published in the weekly young writer memo and on the young writers private closed Facebook page.  As this is a new venture recommended ......
Photo  -  Tom Anderson who writes the Week 3 reviews
Read More .....

WEDNESDAY 25 JULY

NZ banning speakers   -   Amos Sale  (New Zealand)  -   Wed 25 July  

If your government goes rogue and begins smothering civil liberties and basic freedoms how do you resist it?  Phil Goff the sitting Mayor of Auckland recently banned a pair of visiting Canadian political commentators and activists from speaking at a council venue. His reasoning was that their controversial opinions on immigration issues would stir up racial division. They have now cancelled their visit to New Zealand.
Read More .....

Jesus, my refuge   -    by Shannon Munyard   (Adelaide) -   Wed 25 July

I was praying the other night, and asked God what he wants my next article to be about. This isn’t something I do all the time as I often have something pressing, but over the course of the last month my wells felt a bit dry, no ideas or passions springing up.  After I asked, I waited. And I felt the spirit whisper ‘refuge’, and then came a physical ache inside me ....
Read More ......

Good timing   -    by Rachel Li  (Sydney) -    Wed 25 July

I’ve always wondered what Esther was thinking on the first night she invited her husband, the King of Persia, and Haman, a high-ranking senior official in the King’s court, to dinner. That night she was meaning to tell King Xerxes that Haman schemed a cunning plan to kills all the Jews in the Kingdom of Persia.....
Read More .....

World Cup 2022   -   by Wes Tronson  (Gold Coast)  -   Wed 25 July

The World Cup 2022 is scheduled for Qatar, in four years. The 2018 Moscow World Cup is now history. France defeated Croatia 4-2 in the Final, and Belgium put paid to England 2-0 for 3rd.  England greatly disappointed its supporter base and its world-wide fans. Their semi-final illustrated they were not hungry enough. The Croatian players consistently were in front of their English opposite numbers as passes came their way. Some .....
Read More ......

TUESDAY 24 JULY

White space: the art of pausing in a hectic world - Peter Brookshaw (Melb) - Tues 24 July 

Some of you are wondering what white space is. Just pause for a moment. I’ll tell you in a minute. Though, that’s the problem right there. We don’t know how to pause.  Just be a passenger in a car for longer than five minutes and you’ll see impatience. Just sit at a computer and wait for a video to load and you’ll see frustration......
Read More......

What good is a jet plane if it doesn't move !!  by Jo Fuller (Sunshine Coast)  -   Tues 24 July

I recently took a trip inter-state to visit my sister. We had a wonderful time and my baby daughter was able to go on her first plane ride. We were told upon check-in that our departing flight would be delayed by a mere 15 minutes. We went through security with plenty of time to spare. We were then able to board the aeroplane, so we took our seats ... Read More ....

The three no's that defined a God 'yes' in my life  -  by Brendon Collins  (NZ) - Tues 24 July

So often in our lives we can walk through seasons with people being around us where we are getting encouraged. But too often we can be in environments were we feel that no one is around us to encourage us. The events in our lives can look so dim where we are going nowhere. God wants to constantly encourage us on the mountaintops and in the valleys low. This article today is written in mind that no matter what season  .....
Read More .......

Desk top art highly prized by young writers  -   PSI   -  Tues 24 July

Every month for the Tweed Heads Chamber of Commerce business car-draw I have now for many years presented a desk top art work and they have been well received. Desk top art works are small in nature, that sit on an executive's or a corporate desk and has a significance to that person and highly appreciative.
Read More ......

MONDAY 23 JULY

The art of success   -   by Tom Anderson  (Ipswich)  -    Mon 23 July

I set myself a goal to run a marathon five years ago. I went from zero to running half the distance in about three months. It took me another year and a half to finally stand at the start line for my first attempt at 42km. How did it go? Not well. I finished, but only just, limping across the line in just under five painful hours.
Read More  .......

Welcome to the house of God    -    by Kristen Dang  (Adelaide)  -    Mon 23 July

Every house has its own character, and it speaks something of the people who live there. We were having dinner with some friends a few weeks ago when one of them prayed and gave thanks that we were able to worship in the house of God together. As we prepared to share the meal, I felt the significance of God’s house dawn on me. How incredible it is that God ......
Read More ......

The considerations in quitting   -    by Jared Diprose  (New Zealand)  -    Mon 23 July

Have you ever thought – I just want to quit.  Let’s consider this - what if you just quit? I mean your job, just quit. What if you just went to work tomorrow, and quit your job. Be at a loose end. A new start. A fresh beginning. You might go bankrupt, become a manic depressant, or become homeless. On the other hand something wonderful might happen. It may well not tho, don't want you to get your hopes up.
Read More .....

5 weeks to 2018 young writer conference   -    PSI    -     Mon 23 July

The 2018 young writer conference will be held in Christchurch on Saturday 1 September at the Salvation Army Conference Centre, Colombo Street – just five weeks away. Young people are coming from Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Wollongong, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and international young writers .....
Photo  -  the remarkable perennial MC is Senior Writer Russell Modlin
Read More ......

Week 2   -   Cycle 6   -   JULY

FRIDAY 20 JULY

Getting out of your own way   -    by Jesse Moore  (Sunshine Coast)   -    Frid 20 July

U2’s latest album, Songs of Experience, includes a song titled, “Get Out of Your Own Way”. While listening closely to the creative lyrics I realised how relevant this concept is to my own life let alone the people around me. Often, we find something or someone to blame for situations we’ve been placed in to avoid facing the harsh reality that we ourselves .......
Read More ......

Bucking the trend    -   by Ethan Miller  (New Zealand)   -    Frid 20 July

Recently I attended a conference for those who are in Church leadership. One of the big themes than appeared in almost every main session was that Christianity and Churches in New Zealand are declining. I felt like what I have witnessed, read and often talked about was finally getting the spotlight it deserved. .....
Read More ......

Do you see what I see?     by Meenal Sim (Sydney)   -    Frid 20 July

How often have you missed a moment because you were ‘too busy’ or missed the bigger picture because you were so focused on ensuring your small part of the world was being attended to?
Read More .....

Unanswered prayer   -   by David Lean  (Brisbane)  -   Frid 20 July

Hebrew chapter 11 verse 1 says, “faith is being sure of what we hope for, and confident about that which we do not see.” Today, I have entitled my word unanswered prayer… when God ‘doesn’t’ listen. As I was thinking about this, .....
Read More .....

THURSDAY 19 JULY

The most important thing you can do   -   by Ben Kruzins  (Ocean Shores)   -    Thurs 19 July

In life we all have different priorities. For some of us, the most important thing you can do is love your spouse or love your kids. For others the most important thing you can do is to be good at your job and provide for your family. All these things are driven by love; you love your family so therefore you want the best for them.......
Read More ......

Releasing hope   -    by Liana Monaghan  (Adelaide)  -    Thurs 19 July

Recently I have been given the privilege of joining a team that leads worship at a homeless outreach in the city. This amazing experience of releasing hope through song and spirit-led encouragement has reminded me of God’s heart to lift the head of those who are soul-downcast and release His hope and peace over His people......
Read More ......

Great Commission at the comfort of your own home  -  Richard Kwon (NZ) -  Wed 19 July

Ah yes…indeed it is one of the classic summer bible retreat message that you have heard over a million times: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.....
Read More .....

I'm not sure if I'm a Christian anymore ......   by Emma Seabrook  (Melb)     -     Thurs 18 July

Being a christian isn’t easy. Jesus warned us of this when he said “...in the world, you will have trouble.” Sometimes, the world gets so hard that we begin to question our faith. We begin to wonder whether it’s all a big con. Surely a God that is supposed to be so loving wouldn’t allow all the trials in the world – cancer, death, pain, heartache…..
Read More .......

Statisticians sent in the 2018 young writer results    -    PSI    -     Thurs 18 July

The Press Service International young writer program in conjunction with Christian Today has now received from the various statisticians the 2018 young writer award results.  These 2018 awards will be presented in a little over 5 weeks in Christchurch at the annual conference and awards. The certificates are provided by ......  
Photo - Talisa Pariss-Proby an Over 31's Panellist - a former young writer, and award winner
Read More .......

WEDNESDAY 18 JULY

Playing my part   -   by Thomas Devenish  (Hobart)   -    Wed 18 July

When it comes to classical music, one of my earliest memories goes back to when I was a young boy of ten or eleven going for a drive with my older brother. It was an early morning, on a gravel road on top of a mountain. There was mist everywhere, and bands of sunlight streamed through the tall trees that lined the road. As we drove through this surreal scene, we listened to one of Mozart’s symphonies.....
Read More ......

Don't Bag the Ban on Plastic Bags   -   by Sarah Urmston  (Sydney)    -    Wed 18 July

On 1 July 2018, WA, NSW, QLD and VIC were dragged with much fanfare and fuss into the modern age of BYO Bags (or pay up!) to the supermarket. Yes, it’s a new world for many as a ban on light-weight, single use plastic bags came into effect into the remaining states on 1 July 2018.  These states were welcomed with open arms by South Australia – who led the charge in 2009, the ACT and Tasmania (arrived in 2011) and Tasmania in 2013. .....
Read More .......

Life isn't a movie  ...  living in messiness   -   by Anna Waite  (Brisbane)   -   Wed 18 July

Have you ever had one of those moments where in the midst of everything going on around you, you are hit by the thought ‘it doesn’t get better than this’?   Perhaps in a perfect day of sunshine, friends, summer tunes and laughter. Or maybe during an evening with family, children running amok and a delicious spread on the table. A moment where everything felt exactly as it should. ......
Read More ......

Who is that girl in the mirror   -   by Amy Ching  (New Zealand)  -    Wed 18 July  

“Who is that girl I see staring straight back at me? Why is my reflection someone I don’t know?”  The familiar lyrics bring me back to the scene of Mulan where she questioned her worth being shamed by the matchmaker. She did not feel that she was like the other girls possessing qualities to be a good bride. Her experience is very similar to how girls including myself in this century would go through. We compare ourselves to others, questioning ...
Read More .......

Sport:  Diving Deep    -     by David Goodwin  (Melbourne)   -     Wed 18 July

I’ve enjoyed watching some of the soccer World Cup. The passion on display from fans, the way that soccer truly is a world game that has an international reach beyond the dreams of other sports, the sheer level of skill and athleticism required—it’s a spectacle that captures the imagination of even casual observers such as myself. ......
Read More .......

THURSDAY 17 JULY

 The Bookshop (a movie), life (a bravery), and .....  by  Emma McGeorge NZ  -  Tues 17 July

>> Warning: possible spoilers, guaranteed opinions <<
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path, and leave a trail.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.  Despite the less than generous rating which Rotten Tomatoes gave this movie, I decided to go along and see “The Bookshop” at a local cinema ....
Read More ......

Resurrection around us     -    by Michael Dahlenburg  (Adelaide) -     Tues 17 July  

In our home, when we go out and about, I am usually the designated driver.
Due to recent circumstances though, I have been unable to drive and this has given me the chance to sight see when usually my eyes and concentration are on the road. 
Driving through the hills recently, we drove through an area which was badly burned by bushfire about 2 years ago. .....
Read More ...... 

My boring testimony    -   by Miranda Menelaws  (Kingaroy)  -    Tues 17 July

​Growing up in church, I remember loving the Sundays where instead of the usual sermon, members from the church would share their testimonies with the congregation. I love to hear people’s stories—it’s what makes me love writing and storytelling too—but of course it also goes much deeper than that.
​Read More .......

Delightful reflections on Hillsong 2018   -    by Grace Mathew  (Sydney) -    Tues 17 July

If miraculously blue skies are a sign of an open heaven, Hillsong Conference seems to be in perennial favour with those above. Forecasts of rain and cold were swapped for unseasonably sunny skies, as over 23,000 conference attendees flocked to Sydney's Olympic Park for the nation's largest annual conference. Qudos Bank Arena, built for sports games and celebrities, resounded with songs like "Amazing Grace" and modern classics ...
Read More ........

MONDAY 16 JULY

Revival of a shackled youth   -   by Cartia Moore (Sunshine Coast)   -   Mon 16 July

Youth camps are awesome, and our church’s recent youth camp was no exception. Attending this year’s camp as a leader was a unique opportunity to see things from a different perspective. Whenever a few hundred young people come together to worship in ......
Read more .....

Sorry, you won't have eternal life in heaven   -   by Haydn Lea  (Adelaide) -   Mon 16 July  

I’m sorry, but I don’t believe that you’re going to spend eternity in heaven. This isn’t a judgement on you personally, I’m saying that as a whole, believers won’t spend eternity in heaven. Allow me to explain…
Read more ......

Victim or Victor    -     by Joseph Kolapudi  (Brisbane)  -   Mon 16 July

​Significance is often a hard-fought battle between voicing your opinion and making your voice heard. While both may not strike the reader as being quite different from each other, there is a vast difference between both.....

Read more ......

The blanket in the cold    -   by Esther Koh  New Zealand   -    Mon 16 July

The cold weather has finally hit us with temperatures below 0°c during the wee night and early morning. In spite of that, our toddler ironically decides that now is the best time to stop using a blanket. We completely empathise with parents who have little kickers of blankets as we’ve been through this with our eldest boy in addition to his younger brother following in his stead now. ......
Read more ......

Hillsong Music     -    by Daniel Mathew  (Sydney)   -    Mon 16 July

There are more songs of worship to be sung! And at Hillsong Conference 2018, that happened. The annual conference that is often marked by musical excellence has had a distinctly more honest and intimate approach this year. .....
Read more ......