The Rising Hope

2008-03-24T11:04:00.001+13:00

Raybon Kan, NZ funnyman, lays down the gauntlet to those who believe in the risen Jesus:

http://stuff.co.nz/4449313a1861.html

2008-03-17T15:42:00.002+13:00

NZ Politicians say money more important than people

"Obama praised Wright, a former US Marine, as a "respected biblical scholar" who has "preached the gospel of Jesus, a gospel on which I base my life. In other words, he has never been my political advisor; he's been my pastor."" http://stuff.co.nz/4442558a12.html

Sounds like classic dualism to me. Jesus has things to say about my individual life but not about public policy. So what is Jesus lord of again?

2007-08-27T22:14:00.000+12:00

Artist: The Divine Comedy
Album: Regeneration
Year: 2001
Title: Eye Of The Needle

They say that you'll hear him if you're really listening
And pray for that feeling of grace
But that's what I'm doing, why doesn't he answer?
I've prayed 'til I'm blue in the face

The cars in the churchyard are shiny and German
Distinctly at odds with the theme of the sermon
And during communion I study the people
Threading themselves through the eye of the needle
I know that it's wrong for the faithful to seek it
But sometimes I long for a sign, anything
Something to wake up the whole congregation
And finally make up my mind

The cars in the churchyard are shiny and German
Completely at odds with the theme of the sermon
And all through communion I stare at the people
Squeezing themselves through the eye of the needle

2007-08-23T08:14:00.000+12:00

An excellent and provocative article by Stuart Murray whose book Post-Christendom I think I shall get:

http://www.postmission.com/articles/christendom-murray.pdf

2007-08-08T21:48:00.000+12:00

Heaven: Don't worry it's not the end of the world

A sweet series of blog posts on heaven

2007-07-31T08:06:00.000+12:00

John 5:5-17

"The man went away, and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. For this reason the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because He was doing these things on the Sabbath. But He answered them, "My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working."

Some of the Jews were pretty pissed off that Jesus would heal someone on the Sabbath. Jesus uses this opportunity to once again align himself with the Father. Ever since humanity fell God has been working out his plan of redemption, reconciliation and restoration. Now Jesus too works this out in the lives of those he comes in contact with. As the Father is working to heal and restore the whole cosmos, Jesus begins with this sick man.

2007-07-30T20:57:00.000+12:00

Quoteth I:

"The church's new life and new obedience are for the sake of the world. When the church's new life of the Spirit becomes evident to unbelievers, they too are convinced of the truth of this "good news" and so are drawn to Christ..."The Christians' lifestyle should not only be exemplary, but also winsome. It should attract outsiders and invite them to join the community... Their 'exemplary existence' is a powerful magnet that draws outsiders toward the church.""
p 194 "The Drama of Scripture" by C. G. Bartholomew and M. W. Goheen (a Reformy)

This book has once more vividly highlighted the continuity of the witness of God's people. Like Israel who was to draw the nations to give their allegiance to YHWH by their way of life (Isaiah 42:6, 49:6), the Church should be drawing people into their new life following the Way through their love of all humanity and creation.

2007-07-30T20:24:00.000+12:00

The Bible can lead to eternal life because as Jesus once said:

"These are the Scriptures that testify about me.." John 5:39ish

Is the Bible the word of God or a witness to the Word that is God? I guess it can in some way be both.

2007-07-23T13:26:00.000+12:00

Inspiration

'God breathed' : life giving, living words.
Like the clay of humanity so is the bible without God's breath, his wind, his spirit.

2007-07-22T22:11:00.000+12:00

Some wise words found in the intro of an outreach NIV Bible. Copyright to them no doubt.

How to Read this Story

Can you read the Bible like other stories? Not exactly. The Bible is a collection of books, 66 in all, that were written over a long period of time. They tell the story of how God is working to set things right in our world. But these books were written in a different time than ours, and that means you will need to keep some important things in mind as you read.

The key to reading the Bible is to remember two questions: What did it mean then? and What does it mean now? The first step in reading the Bible is to discover what the original author was saying. Once this is clear, ask yourself what it means for you today.

Here are some keys to finding what a Bible story or passage originally meant:

What kind of literature is being used: is it historical story? law? psalm (song)? letter? wisdom saying? Answering this question correctly will help you interpret the passage correctly.
Where are you reading in the story? Where did these people live? What is happening around them? What is God telling them now? What happened before? What are they expecting to happen next? As in all stories, some things change and some things stay the same as the story progresses.
How does this passage fit into the message of other passages around it? It is critical to read the Bible in context. As with any story, if you pull isolated saying out of context, you may change the meaning entirely.

As you move into thinking about what a Bible passage means for you today, keep these in mind:

Use common sense. God is not trying to trick us or hide secret meanings in the Bible. Some parts of the Bible are difficult, yet in most places the meaning can be discerned clearly. Look for the plain meaning of the text, then focus on what your response should be.
Keep in mind the cultural differences between the Bible times and ours today. When God is teaching an important principle for living, the way that principle gets lived out may look very different in our day from what it looked like in the ancient world.
Remember where you are in the story. We are living after the death and resurrection of the Messiah Jesus, which is the climax of the Bible's whole story. The main event has happened. God has shown us what he is like by sending Jesus to us. Everything you read should be shaped by that fact

The Bible is not primarily about you. It is the ancient story of God, the world and the people he called. Yet, this story has a place for you. In fact, the reason this story was saved and written down is so that people like you could read it and find the true meaning for their lives. Our prayer is that you will read it and discover within it the life that is truly life (1 Timothy 6:19).

2007-07-19T20:34:00.000+12:00

C & E – not you usual breakfast treat

Investigations into beginnings:

I think I have come to these points.

Interpretations that fit a long period of time into Genesis are a reading of science back into Scripture, which in itself may or may not make be appropriate.

Any reading of evolution into theology makes a real mess which can be hard and perhaps even impossible to reconcile.

There are a few scenarios:
- science allows for the possibility of instantaneous 6-day creation and we take the literal reading
- science points to evolution but we decide to go with the literal reading and leave it as a mystery of God
- science points to evolution and we decide to attempt to reconcile the two

Someone recently pointed out that 6 dayer’s are a lot less concerned (at least vocally) about the care of creation than their theistic brothers. Theology of creation care is highly dependent on eschatological leanings. 6 dayer’s perhaps imagine God jumping in to speak the new heavens and earth into existence and theistics imagine God working more through natural means (us).

2007-07-18T12:26:00.000+12:00

My ponderings have led to the Bible, the Holy Writ. In my tradition we believe that the Bible is inerrant and infallible.

What does it mean to say that the Bible is inerrant when:
a) the ancient manuscripts differ by varying degrees,
b) translations widely differ,
c) there appears to be contradictions in our translations.

Is there any point to say that God arranged for there to be one perfect, infallible copy of the complete Scriptures but allowed us to lose it.

Paul wrote more letters than we still have to day. Were these any less inspired by God? Did Paul just get it right for a handful which were preserved for us and the rest discarded?

Can the Bible still be "God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" despite all these issues? I believe so.

2007-04-12T22:02:00.000+12:00

Perhaps 'global warming' has become a monster. Something that takes all our focus and energy, whilst we happily pollute, decimate fishery stocks, buy crap loads plastic junk and basically screw the world. But perhaps its the beast we need to challenge our lives, reduce us to basics, and cause us to reevaluate what we need and what actually brings happiness. I need this baptism too.

2007-04-12T22:00:00.000+12:00

Every good christian should read 'a generous orthodoxy' by brian mclaren...and their bibles too.

2007-02-15T13:00:00.000+13:00

After taking a hiatus from climate change issues, I feel I must revisit them with even more vigour with the latest IPCC report's findings being released. God, give us the wisdom to act to preserve as much of Your good creation as possible.

2007-02-15T12:54:00.000+13:00

If Nathan was still around prophesing today, I wonder whether he would be sent to the Western world to tell us the story of the poor man and his lamb. We who have decided to kill and murder, rape and pillage the rest of the world so that we might remain comfortable with our quality of life.

2007-02-15T12:49:00.000+13:00

The world seems to get darker, and more sad and twisted each week. We who are meant to bear the Light and the Salt of the earth must cast off the bushel to shine out into the dark world and expose the darkness we hide underneath.

2007-02-03T14:49:00.000+13:00

First they threaten to close down the lab and then someone thieves off with my bike from a friends. Still He is good to me.

2007-01-31T08:01:00.000+13:00

A month has flown the coup but I'm still standing, albeit quietly in the corner. So much has happened in this time. As of the 1st Jan, I was no longer single. As of the 3rd-10th of Jan, I was no longer certain about my church decision. As of the 11th of Jan I had experienced M Ward. As of the 14th of Jan we were declared winners of Cranium. As of the 19th of Jan, we had publicly appeared in Masterton and had met the grandparents. As of the 23rd of Jan, we had our first hot date. And finally, as of the 29th of Jan we had seen the Dark Side of the Moon. Multinumerous good times have been had this Jan. Certainly a contender for best Jan ever.

2006-12-31T09:05:00.000+13:00

There are a raft of alternative/indie/alt country bands coming to Wellington early next year. M. Ward on the 11th of Jan, The Handsome Family on the 7th of Feb, Joanna Newsom on the 11th of Feb, Calexico on the 21st of Feb, and Camera Obscura on the 7th of March. I fear I will end up at most of the these gigs by myself. Does anyone else want to go to any or know of anyone going?

2006-12-28T09:24:00.000+13:00

Ze best o' '06

songs: Legendary, Lou Barlow; True Love, Elliott Smith.
albums: Ys, Joanna Newsom; Together We're Heavy, The Polyphonic Spree.
books: What Saint Paul Really Said, NT Wright; From the Holy Mountain: A Journey among the Christians of the Middle East, William Dalrymple. (Probably the only two completely read!)
movies: Kill Bills
conferences: NZIC Rotarua
cities: Edinburgh
lectures: Prof Dave Macmillan at NZIC
live act: Radiohead
most expensive CD: The Divine Comedy's Fanfare for the Comic Muse
reaction: rearrangement of my unsaturated benzyl sugar in deuterated chloroform/the weird synthesis of the ene-phosphonate in failed Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reactions
highlights: First experience of backpacking around Europe, the massive Pukkelpop Festival, Edinburgh festival, making brief foreign friendships, road trip to Mahia, NZIC conference with my otago chums, indoor soccer at lunchtimes, my garden
lowlights: friggen HWE reactions!, hitting a car on my bike, QBC issues, the faltering flat

All in all its be a veritable treat. Bring on 2007.

2006-12-25T23:04:00.000+13:00

Ever since one terrifying story on 'The Extraordinary' about 10 years ago in which I was asked if I could see the skull of a murdered lover in the rocks of a waterfall, I have looked for faces in walls, floors or any other ordinary item. In the lounge carpet at 23 James St I found Elvis. Every now and again he would fall into sight as I sat musing on the couch. I regret never obtaining photographic evidence of my lost friend. But alas, now I have what appears to be Pacific Island chief looking towards the heavens, just above the urinal on the 4th floor of Laby. I wonder if he's found what he's looking for.

2006-12-12T20:25:00.000+13:00

Joanna Newsom (with Smog) 11th of February 2007!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh yeah!

2006-12-01T23:21:00.000+13:00

Another successful dinner party has been and gone but the roast has grown old. What culinary peak shall I climb now?

2006-11-30T22:49:00.000+13:00

It’s strange when clarity comes. After struggling for a couple of weeks with a decision, filled with to-ing and fro-ing, it all came down to one calm Friday night. Whilst situated at a farewell party dressed in my ancestor’s attire I ventured outside. I wasn’t in the frame of mind to dance, nor loose enough to bellow. It was going to be a quiet one for me. I found my way outside to the front yard. Grass is a simple pleasure, which I have begun to appreciate more and more. Overseas it is treated with such respect that one may only admire it from a distance. All I want to do is feel it between my toes and lie in its soft embrace. So lay I did, with the concrete path as my pillow. The stars shone dimly above. Peace at last. During the few hours I spent there, I contemplated life and particularly the decision at hand. Which way to go? So often I let peoples’ actions guide me or cut down my options and this was not going to be any different. With actions borne in mind, out popped the answer with swift justice. A calmness fell, a smile arose and the deal was dusted. Implementation you are next!

2006-11-29T15:26:00.000+13:00

So who's coming with me to the 1st Twenty20 Blackcaps vs Sri Lanka on 22 December 7.00pm and the 1st Chappell-Hadlee ODI D/N on the 16 February!?!

2006-11-21T08:25:00.000+13:00

Interview with Miss Newsom

2006-11-15T21:58:00.000+13:00

Be prepared they say. One phone, one wallet, one blanket, one jacket, one book, one bible, one pen, one sunscreen pot, one box of biscuits, one discman, 4 CDs and a desire to escape. Wondering was the goal, destination unclear.

Around the bay I marched with Elliott singing softly. At times little was keeping me from swimming but my resolute defiance against the wind. But this battle was working up a thirst. At Packer's I loaded up the stead with bunja mix, orange juice, luncheon, bread, hummus and of course mushrooms.

Fully stocked I walked past the airport to a nice little pebble beach. I found a sheltered spot against the bank, spread the blanket and smeared my exposed skin with a reflective coat. I soaked in the suns glorious rays, praising its creator. After more petitions and thanks. I read some timely wisdom from James. Out comes the book to note down my thoughts on work and church.

The walking call is strong. I gird my loins, pack my picnic and begin to the journey. I felt compelled to walk the peninsula, not thinking through the effort this would take. But the sun was still shining and the wind dropping so I was happy. Soon I came to the notorious Breakers Bay. No moon was in view, so I ducked down for my dins. I found a log upon which to rest. Hummus and bread was supplemented with a little luncheon.

The sun was fast sinking, as the cool breeze rose. Enough rest, time to climb in the yonder distance. I strolled into Seatoun for the first time. It is a quaint little suburb, reminiscent of such beach towns as Riversdale or Castlepoint. I found the a relief station before continuing on around the bays. I was captivated by all the expensive houses and interesting people they housed. Some were reading, some watching tv, whilst others were eating. Beautiful houses and run down houses sat side by side, sheltering European cars. I shan't ever live here.

Around more bays passing brave fishermen, I wend my way verbally contemplating life's direction. The odd car passes with bizarre stares. Darkness settles in for the evening, as I finally come around the bend to see Evan's Bay before me. My feet begin to hurt. First I thought the irritation was caused the by the coarse sand hitching a ride in my shoes after my breaking onto the beach. After several shoe/sock shake operations, I deemed the sole sensations to be caused by blisters. Soon I passed through the Defence Base being obedient to the signs "Please keep moving."

I had finally completed my first peninsula circuit but the journey was not over. I retraced my steps, finding my original stick still on the path with half its height. He provided me with entertainment for the rest of the walk. Coming around the final corner to see Oriental Bay brought a great sigh. Soon I could rest my wary legs. Whom would I meet at the bottom of Grass St, none but Aaron and Matt walking home from substance. Twas the day to walk. After 8 hrs I was finally home. Next time I shall bike.

2006-11-15T21:35:00.000+13:00

Radiohead marching band style:
Part 1 includes Paranoid Android
Part 2 includes National Anthem
Part 3 includes Exit Music

2006-11-14T18:32:00.000+13:00

If you were at 4b right now, you would hear Ys being belted out! It's been a long wait but it has been worth it! Harp it Joanna! Orchest it Van Dyke Parks!

2006-11-09T23:58:00.000+13:00

For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:10

2006-11-07T22:49:00.000+13:00

Stories and less rants.
Notes but no diary.

2006-11-05T16:52:00.000+13:00

Pedro The Lion
Damien Jurado
Page France
Danielson Famile
David Bazan
Danielson
Rosie Thomas
Ester Drang
Half Handed Cloud
Daniel Johnston
The Innocence Mission
Sufjan Stevens

2006-11-05T16:32:00.000+13:00

God Music or Good Music? Drew Dixon '09

2006-11-04T09:40:00.000+13:00

I'm going to see Roger.

2006-11-02T11:55:00.000+13:00

Fireworks

Flat 4b
This Saturday Evening
Oh yeah

2006-10-31T23:01:00.000+13:00

The last few nights I have been reliving my grunge past, listening to The Smashing Pumpkins late whilst starring at this screen. Its rather pathetic, but I am drawn to do it; the feelings or memories of feelings come rushing back.

2006-10-31T08:40:00.000+13:00

Last week I managed to convince Tim to let me borrow a New Zealand Anglican Prayer Book for use at home. I do highly rate their morning and evening devotions and prayers. I think shall need to find a permanent copy of my own. According to Aaron there are some reformedish ones out there to which haven't been church sponsored. I might keep my eyes open for those as well.

2006-10-30T23:43:00.000+13:00

Wisdom calls, I hear her ever so faintly.
Her voice is soft enough for me to stubble forward.
I need to sit patiently, listening, learning, lest in haste I fall along the way.
Fall into the depths of despair,
There's no home for me there.

2006-10-28T19:49:00.000+13:00

Last weekend was a great success!

Road trip:
Friday - Wellington and Wainui to Kiriwhakapapa via Masterton for dinner at the Bairds
Saturday - Kiriwhakapapa to Mahia Beach via Napier for lunch by waterfront.

Friday Night:
Got to masterton and went grocery shopping. Started to stress. Pies and mash for dins. Courtney tries to wind me up as we pack. Finally packed and on our way in the dark. Stop by Anna's grandparents for a chin wag. Hit Kiriwhakapapa. Find a flat site and figure out how to assemble tent whilst being bombarded by moths with wingspan of 15cm. Tent up and fire going. Mmmm marshmellows by fire. Cigar. Bed, but doors left open so very cool.

Saturday:
Up at 7 am look to cook breakfast. Wind picks up and begins to attack tent. Tent suffers one broken pole and torn mesh before it surrenders. Sausages, egg and damper for breakfast. Half arsed pack up and we on our way.

Stop along the way for ice-cream and poetry. Make Napier, buy food stuffs from Countdown and find the beach. Picnic under tree next to tempting book stall. Munch, yum. Frolic and play in the sea. Girls wrestle and Courtney's glasses are lost to the unforgiving waves. Boys chill playing platonque. Esther begs to swim but is forbidden. Hunt and secure sunnies for Courtney. Back on the road again. Travel further north-east than I have ever been. Arrive at Mahia Beach at 6pmish. Girls hit the kitchen for burger prep and boys tackle the tent, in the light. Tent up, barbar quing, and we are satisfied. Find spot on beach. Raid all the sweet woods before the kids next door could. Fire'a'roaring. Seated, getting cosy and roasting once again. Wasp and wind attack Esther. Suffered burn and sting to hand. The beach quietens. Scream, the wasp goes in for the kill, striking the neck. Anna steps in and crushes the wasp with shoe. Everyone tense and on the look out for more of the winged creatures. Wood runs out, we tire and head home. Stars are shooting, we are daring and telling of truth. Biscuit does not slide down with dish washing liquid. Snake dance arouses. Bed time.

Sunday:
Wake early to clouds. Anna and I go for a fish. Get bites but no takers. Head home. Church time. We sing, we read, we pray and reflect. We tog. Sea warmish and calm. Sea dollars skim. Cold we run to towels. Showers and lunch. Mountaineering time. Around the coast and up a slip. Up and up to the top. Stinging nettle greats us. We lie and rest. Snail attacks Courtney but is exposed. We take flight towards home. Rolling down the hill. Esther twists ankle. Balloon. Seth and I carry, or she bums down. Matthew gets van. Motor camp lady, assesses and provides dressing. Off to Waoria to hospital. Play with wheel chair. Does Dr Tim like Startrek? Courtney wins and cries. Fish and Chips on riverside. Anna and Courtney disappear and two dogs appear? No, Anna and Courtney return. We return to camp and put Esther to bed. No stars, much tired. Bed.

Monday:
Seth up early for run and swim. Courtney showers and showers and showers and showers. I go fishing with stick. Line gets tangled, I give up. Everyone up for breakfast. Scrambled eggs, sausages, tomatoe, fruit salad and museli for breakfast. Little drizzle. Pack up, load van. Seth and Ian throw bottles; girls swoon. Group photo. All aboard and we are off. Napier for munchies of the fast food kind. Stop at Woodville for ice-creams and poetry. Girls win. Masterton, unpack. Courtney has flat. Ian changes to space savers. Pavalova and we off. Home. Unpack, wash and sleep. Oh yeah that was good.

2006-10-28T19:45:00.000+13:00

My masculinity was exhibited today through unreasonable excitement whilst having a peek through the new Mitre 10.

2006-10-28T09:38:00.000+13:00

true love

true love is a rose
behind glass
is locked and kept closed
maybe just to me
cause my heart's been attacked
and shattered by tough love, bad love
So bought mine off the street
true love man it just can't be beat
i felt so complete
married to heavenly bodies above
and each night i look up
at a bright honey moon
cause it sure seemed built to last
even after my honey moon past
i kept right with it man
like a ghost
to the house it once haunted
and day after day
i'd steal with my true love away
to some hide out we left undisturbed
we could do what we wanted
but i started to feel like a liar
saying i love you
she was madly in love and at me
there's no in between
it raised my alarm
i found i can't make a stand
i'm her hired hand
i have to do harm
one day i got sick
she played me a nasty old trick
said i need cigarettes
walked round the block
caught a cab
stayed gone for too long
my love had gotten so strong
just to try being back on my own
i had to go to rehab
all i need is a safe place to bleed
is this where it's at
half of no chance
steps in a dance
rest of my life's been in combat
now i'm the king of the ward
cause i'm good and i swallow my sword
and puke it out for the doctor to write me a new prescription
tranquil as a dove
people that have lost their true love
they all seem to fit the same description
i feel cold, useless and old
wish i was no one
take me up my Lord
take me up today
take me out of this place
take me up with you today

2006-10-25T23:22:00.000+13:00

Torn

Am I a hand, leg or eye?
All part of the body,
But where am I?

2006-10-24T22:13:00.000+13:00

This past weekend was the 3rd anniversary of Elliott Smith's death and almost the 3rd anniversary of my obsession. I hope he's in peace.

2006-10-18T19:58:00.000+13:00

In accordance with my new found appreciation of icons, relics and saints I found out that the twin bothers Cosmas and Damian are the patron saints of chemists. They were both physicians who worked in the 2nd cent AD accepting no payment for their services, which led them to be nicknamed anargyroi or The Silverless. It is said that by this, they led many to the Christian faith. During the persecution under Diocletian they were arrested, tortured and beheaded.

2006-10-15T22:45:00.000+13:00

It is hard not to just bitch and moan when the topic of conservation turns to the Reformy Church (as it invariably does). Hence the goodness of YAC camps where one is exposed to and is caught up in the positive growth of some churches and of other younger peoples still in the Reformy.

2006-10-14T20:19:00.000+13:00

Today someone commented that maturity is exhibited when one happily peruses the Country section without being embarrassed. There is no choice really, when Sufjan Stevens, the Pernice Brothers, The Elected, Joanna Newsom...find their home there.

2006-10-03T23:49:00.000+13:00

Tonight, whilst typing out my notes from the climate change conference in March, I came across this link http://www.climateprediction.net/ and now have my computer running a climate change model in its spare time. In the past five minutes I have made 0.003% progress so it should be completed in just under 140 hours, yeahor!

2006-10-03T21:39:00.000+13:00

Oh dear how can this shite exist:

The American Prophecies: Ancient Scriptures Reveal Our Nation's Future by Michael D. Evans

Showdown With Nuclear Iran – Radical Islam’s Messianic Mission to Destroy Israel and Cripple the United States. Michael D. Evans

2006-10-03T21:06:00.000+13:00

Tonight I went along to the second to last session of the Christian Mind series 'Understanding the Middle East.' It was taken by Dr. Nigel Parsons from Massey University who has spent some time studying and researching in Palestine. We were latter joined by Christina Gibb who has just returned from Hebron where she was part of the Christian Peacemaker Team.

My understanding of the middle east crisis has slowly developed from ignorant support of Israel (for they once were the people of God) to a feeling of sadness at the injustice and oppression suffered by the Palestinians. A good percentage of these Palestinians are Christians, yet most of the western Christian comrades support Israel in their oppression. I can't imagine how they feel. At least some Christian groups are getting amongst it. Tonight makes me want to go there even more.

Dr. Parsons pointed that the peace process (Oslo process), rather than consolidate a Palestinian nation, allowed for the increased colonisation and settling of their land. The number of Jewish settlers in the west bank grew from 250,000 to 400,000 over this period.
Israel supports its settlers with 500 million each year, which is about 5 times the amount of international emergency aid given to the Palestinians.
About one third of the population in East Jerusalem is Palestinian who provide about 35 % of the cities tax. Yet only 5 % goes back into supporting the Palestinian population.

Of all the people in the world I would have thought the Jews would have treated others different. But I guess we made them into who they are, through centuries of marginalisation and oppression from the West.

2006-09-27T21:05:00.000+12:00

Go here for the most recently leaked Elliott Smith songs: http://www.elliottsmithbsides.com/

Oh True Love is magnificent.

2006-09-27T20:55:00.000+12:00

Blood letting

Today I gave blood for the first time. Ever since I had my bike accident outside Taupo, I was so incredibly scared of needles. Fortunately I managed to hold out blood tests until a few years ago. I fainted the first time, with my vision disappearing as if I was flying backwards into a dark tunnel before 'pish' as the monitor is turned back on and focus slowly returns. A nice little trip. Today I took the full plunge with Emma. But she was unable to donate due to recent sickness. I was going it alone. I was so sure I was going to faint, but after the needle was in and the blood began to flow I didn't really feeling anything even when pumping my fist to make it escape faster. So I came through it without any brief excursion, leaving me slightly disappointed. However, I guess I should be glad I didn't faint out as bad as one girl who needed an ambulance to leave.

2006-09-26T00:01:00.000+12:00

"From the Holy Mountain" by William Dalrymple

p 169

"Certainly if John Moschos [THE 7TH CENTURY ORTHODOX MONK WHOSE JOURNEY WILLIAM IS RETRACING] were to come back today it is likely that he would find much more that was familiar in the practices of a modern Muslim Sufi than he would with those of, say, a contemporary American Evangelical. Yet this simple truth has been lost by our tendency to think of Christianity as a Western religion rather than the Oriental faith it actually is. Moreover the modern demonisation of Islam in the West, and the recent growth of Muslim fundermentalism (itself in many ways a reaction to the West's repeated humiliation of the Muslim world), have led to an atmosphere where few are aware of, or indeed wish to be aware of, the profound kinship of Christianity and Islam."

This book caused me to reflect upon the Western Church and how it has lost its ancient mooring. Most Western Churches seem to be floating groups with ideas, morals and church service on sundays. The realness, connectedness to history and this earth seems to be all but lost.

2006-09-25T23:52:00.000+12:00

Finally I have finished the last of my trip emails. Sorry for getting carried away and typing epics that may wear you thin. I gave up my addiction to coffee over the course of the trip and also read "From the Holy Mountain" by William Dalrymple from cover to just before the definitions. I thoroughly recommend it as it has changed and improved my understanding of the complex situation Christians face in the middle east. It also makes me want to travel there and retrace the steps the author walked, taxied and was escorted through. Some passages were particularly insightful and I plan to quote them here.

2006-09-25T23:51:00.000+12:00

(note more spaces)

Greetings from 4b,

After about 5 weeks on road I am home. I thought I should conclude my saga lest I leave anyone in suspense. Before heading for the hills I thought I best check with the information people as to whether it is safe for me to hike my planned route in the High Tatras alone. The helpful lady said it should be fine and also suggested where to book the chalet and what train ticket to get. I have never been so prepared for hike, taking with me a map, first aid kit and even a compass. After stocking up with some supplies I headed for Stary Smokovec. First I had to buy my 3 day electric train pass. Rather than hoping for English I wrote my request down in Slovak and got the lobby man at the hotel to check it. The wee electric train weaved its way closer and closer to the hills. I was perplexed to see most of the trees in the area "cut" down, leaving only a few standing as a reminder that there once stood a forest before us. It wasn't until two days latter that I learnt that this destruction was not at the hand of man but of the wind. A huge storm in 2004 passed over the High Tatras from the north and almost every tree that resided below 1300 m was humbled to the earth. That must have been one powerful storm!

Once in Stary Smokovec I headed straight for the travel agency to book a place in a chalet. However after struggling to find the shop, I was annoyed to see it well closed. If anyone could help, the information station could. I bowled over there and the lady explained that the chalets were quite full due the long weekend coming up but gave them a call to see if they had room. Confused she first booked me a place for that very night and had to call them back to change it to the next day. With that all sorted I headed for my Eurocamp which pretty much touted itself as being the best camping site in existence. First I had to change trains at Tatranska Lomnica. After waiting for awhile, the train finally turned up. Just before boarding I realised it wasn't an electric one so ran into the ticket office to get my 40c train ticket. My stop was the first one and was in walking distance of Eurocamp. The camp was pretty much empty so I could put up my tent anywhere. I found a reasonably flat slab of grass and erected my tent in a couple of minutes. Thankfully little mould had taken hold since Belgium and with airing it was as fresh as ever. I then checked out the facilities. The "supermarket" was a dairy, the famed restaurant claiming to be open from 8-9 was closed, and the disco was also closed. There didn't appear to be a kitchen either. I found out latter there was one but it required getting the key and only sported a couple of hot plates and hot water.

After visually confirming the restaurant's closure I began to seriously contemplate actually having to have beer for dinner. Thankfully I went back to the office and asked where I could find food. The lady pointed to somewhere on this map where their restaurant stood. Confused I ask another guy and he explained that it resided in the section of the camp that I never knew about.

The menu contained some attempts at English descriptions but they were often confused with German. I decided to go with one of their kutchyen specialetys, which at least contained chicken. It turned out to be a skewered kebab with pork, chicken and beef. I ate this along side roasted potatoes with tasty shepherd cheese. I wandered back to my tent just as it was getting dark. There is little one can do whilst camping alone, except go to bed. It was a cool evening; a challenge for my two season synthetic sleeping bag. After an unsettled sleep I finally rose at 7.30 am. Looking from inside of my tent one would expect to find a dewy field. However, I soon realised it was all Lynton made condensation. A new potential form of recycling perhaps? Anyhow, I quickly tackled my breakfast. I had bought milk and muesli with out contemplating how I was to consume it. I had no bowl nor a spoon. At least I still had my trusty cup. I filled it with muesli and milk before chucking it back. Not pretty but it worked.

After leaving a bag of belongings with the reception I hopped to catch a train back towards the hills. A few minutes latter a train came going the wrong way. I assumed it would return in half an hour, but I ended up waiting 1.5 hours until I finally returned. Soon after I jumped on the next train to Stary Smokovec the ticket lady came around. I pulled out my wallet but I couldn't find my 3 day pass. Embarrassed, I searched everywhere but it was nowhere to be found. It actually was residing on the floor of my tent. I had to buy a new ticket, seriously depleting my cash supply. Finally in Stary Smokovec I bought pocket knife before looking for the track which was difficult enough.

The first section of the hike followed the tracks of a cable car up to the first chalet. Since I had plenty of time to get to my chalet I decided to take the side trips off to see some water falls. The High Tatras is more rocky than any of the parks I have walked in New Zealand. Beautifully rugged. I finally put my new knife to use on my salami as I supped on my lunch quietly by a stream. I finally made Zbojnicka Chata (Robber's Chalet; altitude 1960m) by 4pm. These chalets are much like the huts in the Tararuas but with extra services such as hot food and beer on tap which I immediately enjoyed. I enquired about the sleeping arrangements only to find that I actually wasn't booked for that night. Thankfully I arrived early enough to get one of the last remaining beds. The girl who served me held an intriguing beauty, reminiscent of someone back home. Dinner was preceded with one of the best honey enriched teas I have ever drunk. Included in the meal was deep fried battered cheese, mmmm.

There were many groups staying the night leaving a few of us singles to sit quietly to the side. Finally someone asked me in English where I was from and the table erupted into English. I was surrounded by Poles, Czechs and one Hungarian. We chatted the night away sipping our beer, hot wine and plum infused vodka. We were finally sent to bed at 11pm so those sleeping in the dining room could get some sleep. Everyone began getting up at 6.30am as the sun streamed into the room. After the traditional breakfast of salami, cheese and pepper on stale bread I was ready to head off for my longer day of hiking. Gragor, the Hungarian guy I met, was walking out the same way so I caught up with him on the track.

A few minutes away from chalet we saw two Tatra Mountain Chamois (mountain goats). One ran off but the other one was much more relaxed and posed for many photos as it ambled up the track. After we left the goat behind we hit a steep shingly bit of the track. It was hard work trying to avoid creating a rock slide whilst making headway. But the struggle was worth it, affording magnificent views at the saddle. The otherside was almost a sheer cliff face for 5m so chains and pegs where necessary for the descent. We passed over the other side, past patches of snow, onto the next saddle. We took a detour up Vychodna Vysoka, a peak reaching 2, 428.6 m. The view from the top was magnificent. In the north you see into Poland and the south into Slovakia. Back on the track we descended towards a the next mountain hotel that bore our lunch. Cabbage and sausage soup was a big hit. Gragor had a car and gave me a ride back to camp. After saying goodbyes he headed off further north.

As I headed for my tent I heard the pleasant sound of English from two new campers. They were Lisa and Ricky from Oz who had been traveling around in South America for 7 months before this short trip to Europe, finishing in China for three months. It was nice to have people to hang around and eat with especially with the stories they had to tell. The next morning I got up to finish packing and dry the inside of my tent out. After sharing breakfast they headed out to the hills and I got ready to catch my train to Poprad. I hurried to the station, arriving with less than a minute to spare. At Poprad I tried to spend my remaining cash. But rather than throwing it away I decided to change the 120 Slovak crowns back to euro. My next train arrived and I boarded. After showing the conductor my train pass he asked for my reservation. I didn't have one as it didn't say I needed one on the Internet. He told me I had to pay the exact amount I had just changed to euro. I offered to pay in euro but frustrated he said forget it and let me off. This train was 2 minutes late giving me less than two minutes to find my next train. Thankfully I ran to the correct train and boarded just as it departed.

There were a couple of Chinese tourists in my cabin but they spoke good English. They even shared with me some of the chicken that had bought for lunch. At one stop on the way a Hungarian uni student joined us. He asked if I spoke German as he didn't know much English. We ended up conversing about NZ, music, glasses vs contacts and alcohol in broken Eng-erman. He even gave me a sip of polanka, a very tasty spirit that is distilled from pure fruit. I caught my final train of the trip to Budapest and decided to walk to my hostel. It was a nice, new and cosy hostel quite close to town. I was thinking about heading into town but my feet though otherwise so I retired to the hostel. That evening I met another Aussie, Matt, and we went out to try some local food where we saw a couple of American tourists stumble down some stairs. One even went through the door and onto the footpath. Later I rang dad to wish him a happy late birthday.

The next day was my final full day holidaying. I first checked out the local flea market. It was filled with all sorts of rubbish as Emma had warned. I didn't find anything suitable for presents so headed off to church. I found a small Anglican one that was lead by a NZ priest. It was nice to have a church service that was slightly familiar to me. After a quick lunch I found a few last presents before heading out to the Statue Park. This was the most disappointing sight seen on this trip. It is a small garden area with maybe 20 statues from the communist era. It might have meant something if I was Hungarian or knew lots around communism but otherwise it isn't that interesting. One of the final things to do in Budapest was to hit the thermal baths. I decided to go to the most popular baths that are housed in the Gellert Hotel. Both genders have separate bathing areas so as to not discriminate against those who just "forgot" their togs. About half of the guys were wearing what was called an 'apron'. More like a white loin clothe. This was the first time I was happy to be vision impaired. I spent most of my time soaking in the 38oC, only occasionally chilling in the 8oC pool. I withstood the 55oC of the steam room for a couple of minutes before choosing to save my lungs. I ended with a short swim in the normal co-gender swimming pool. After exiting and scaling halfway up the hill to see the liberation monument, I remember that I was meant to be holding my togs in hand. The pools were closing soon so I had to pace a little faster up the hill and take the obligatory photos before the rapid decent. I made it just in time and found my togs and towl patiently waiting in the cupboard for me to wring them out and take them home.

The sun had gone and the lights began to shine. I wasn't going to make it to the castle or Parliament this trip but at least I could walk by them and take photos of the pretty lights. My feet were beginning to fail but just held out for the walk home. Everyone else was hanging back at the hostel. A few cool beers latter I packed and headed for bed. I had left arranging my mini-bus to the airport too late to get picked up at my desired time but at least I knew if I was picked up at 9am I would make my 12.35pm flight. I was to little too early to check in and had to search for things to do. There wasn't much to buy in this section of the airport but there was a ecumenical prayer room were I had some needed prayer time.

I was worried that my bag was going to be well over 20kg so I utilised the leaning technique which I am sure took a couple kg off the pack's weight. Once I was all checked in and through security I ran around looking for places to spend my remaining forints. I decided on a Hungarian Cookbook but I was a few hundred forints short. Having no better ideas I changed a couple of euros (losing $1 US worth) to buy it plus a pack of tic tacs.

The flight to London was smooth. Once landed we all had to queue for about 1 hr to get through a new set of security measures. Many misinformed people faced the loss of their duty free booze but I was on the game having all mine stashed in my pack. I pulled out my last few pounds and got a burger for lunch. I was meant to have a three hour stop over but when I went to look to find my departure gate, the flight was announced to be 1.5 hr delayed. I killed more time reading books and magazines in the shops before finally I thought my plane was boarding. They gave a final boarding call soon after and a few people began running with me. We finally got to the gate only to be told it was another Cathy Pacific flight to Hong Kong. We had to wait another hour before we finely boarded. I got an aisle seat with a spare seat next to me allowing me to get to get about 6 hours sleep interspersed with food, beer and movies. Finally in Hong Kong, 3 hrs late, it was really too late to make any foray into the city. I wondered through the many duty free and designer clothes stores. The cheapest things in the airport was food and ciggies. I changed $20 NZ sat down for some Chinese. I soon realised that I would struggle to spend all my cash so went in search for the cheapest tobacco product. I eventually found a small pack of pipe tobacco to buy for Aaron. I spent the final dollars on a small snack before my flight.

The next phase of the trip dragged on a little as I could hardly sleep. Thankfully there were some movies I wanted to see. After touching down I Auckland I had my last chance to hit duty free. I came away with an after shave pack, Drambuie (mmmm), port and cheap wine. Man I love NZ customs. I have not come across any customs more thorough. In Heathrow you can chose whether to declare items and even if you have some to declare there is sometimes no one to declare them too. My tent had to be checked and potentially sprayed but otherwise I got through Scotch free. It was good to be back in NZ.

There was only one more flight left for me. After the most ridiculous episode of Days of Our Lives, it was boarding time. Flying in NZ feels like a waste of time as you start to descend pretty much straight after finishing the ascent and you spend more time checking in and waiting for your luggage than flying. Hurrah, I was in Wellington at 4pm, some 40 hrs after since I left my hostel. I quietly caught the bus into town and enjoyed the picturesque stroll down Oriental Bay and thus the journey came to an end. I look forward to seeing you all soon. I think I shall put some photos on the net soon and provide the link for your viewing pleasure.

Thank you and goodnight,
Lynton

2006-09-13T21:23:00.000+12:00

Greetings from Poprad,

My trip is quickly coming to an end. I have finished with the Czech Republic and have just sampled Poland. The bone church I went to see in Kutna Hora was rather bizarre. In the 1870s the rulers of the day gave an architect permission to exhume the graveyard and artistically arrange the bones inside the old Gothic church. They estimate that more than 40,000 individuals bones were used in the work. They have a blurb explaining its creation as an exposition that shows there is no distinction in death, as all die, the rich and poor, and must face their maker. There wasn't much else to do in Kutna Hora but i did find a Museum of Alchemy. It was a bit of a lame exhibition, with posters that could have been cut and pasted together by students at the local schools. I did at least learn that alchemists didn't just spend their days trying to turn lead into gold. Its hugely philosophical. I managed to get back in time to do one more tourist thing. I decided on doing the Jewish Museum tour as Prague has one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in Europe. It was moving reading about their constant persecution from since their arrival in the land. I also loved reading all about their culture and lives. It surprising how little I know of their history and culture. The next day I boarded my train for Krakow. I first hopped into the wrong carriage that was going to be left behind at some stage. Thankfully the ticket lady guessed where i was heading and sent me to the right carriage. I hopped into the first room that was fairly empty. I was soon to find it was a smoking carriage. Nothing like two packets of ciggies to form a stratosphere. I wasn't actually that bad as they did open the window. Plus, as if to appease me I was included in the rounds of beer and thus sunk 7 pints over the course of the trip. They were Poles so communication was difficult, limiting us to topics of money, jobs, beer and music. At one of the stops I saw about 20-30 men waiting next to about the same number of police. About half the police boarded with them. Once in Krakow, there were even more police in riot gear and with dogs. Later i found out it was a bunch of football fans being escorted home. They take their football seriously here.
Krakow is a beautiful city and so relaxed. At the hostel I bumped into Jenny and Adelle whom I had met in Prague. I also met a couple of Irish and we all decided to go out for a dance. I rarely club anymore but one has do it now and again. We found some recommended club, got a drink and hit the dance floor. It was magnificent. The vibe, the music, the beer and my friends made it my best bogey ever. So as to not lose this feeling I called it quits after 1hr and escorted the girls home with a huge smile on my face. The next morning I tracked down the church that had an English service. It was catholic again but at least I could follow it. In the afternoon I went on a biking tour of Prague. We were taken around all the touristy sights such as the Castle and St Marys but the highlight was going over the bridge to the see the Jewish Ghettos of the 1940s, seeing the remaining section of the wall and the square where all the Jews were herded onto trains destined for Auschwitz. The tour ended with a visit of Oscar Schindler's factory where we were told about his real story. That evening I enjoyed the hostel BBQ before narrowly losing a game of the battle of the sexes. However I am impressed that I remembered that Anne of Green Gables main mans first name, Gilbert, but the only surname i was getting was Grape.
Monday I was up early to make the trip to Auschwitz. I was going with a couple others from the hostel but we go separated soon after arriving when i went back to get a guide book. It was a sad, disturbing and moving place to visit. Its difficult to put in words. I ended up spending the whole day there walking around and visiting the exhibits.
That night I came back and entered the pub quiz with a couple of Auckers and an Oz. The game was tight but we came away with the spoils after winning the tie breaker. After enjoying the free beers over a game of jenga i was convinced to head into town. After a few more drinks in a lounge bar I headed home to plan my next days trip.
Yesterday I packed before heading out to the salt mine. I never new salt was worth digging for. After descending towards 135 meters we were taken through caverns that were entirely man made that contained many sculptures carved from the rock salt. The even have an impressive salt carved cathedral including carvings of the last supper. Quite amazing. There is over 200km of tunnels and hundreds of rooms mined out since the 1400s. I raced back to town to get my gear before heading to the train station. Thankfully the train was on time so i managed to make my connection into Slovakia. On the way the conductor had to explain that i had to change trains at the next stop. He ended up drawing trains to express himself. I got it but I dont think I was giving the a response he could understand. After one more change I was on my way to Poprad. I got in at 9.20 and looked for the Hotel Tatra. No spelling mistake there, I did indeed spend last night in a hotel. However, tonight I go to the other extreme as I finally put to use the tent I have dragged around Europe. So here I shall leave it as I head towards the High Tatras for a camping and hiking trip. Might be the last email as I will be home next week.

love Lynton

2006-09-09T08:27:00.000+12:00

Greetings from Prague,

Some time has passed since the first update. The conference has been and gone. My poster session went alright. I managed to talk to a few people about it and get some advice about some reactions. I was a little disheartened when a few people laughed by my poster and I imagine it was the guy presenting the total synthesis of aigialomycin D. But it was not, as I met him later on. He was a nice guy so it made me feel better about the whole situation.
We were treated to some fine lectures by a number of total synthesis professors. They have got me thinking about implementing some of their technology into our lab. There were also couple of lectures from Nobel laureates of note, particularly those on the atmospheric chemistry and global warming and the methanol economy. After the poster session Emma and I raced to a pier for a boat cruise and dinner with Richard and a few of his friends. But we were about 10 mins too late. The conciliation was that we found an excellent pizza place on the way home. Mmm cream cheese on pizza. The next day was short with some more organic chem before heading off to town. Emma got some prezzies as we sampled the deep fried delights on offer. The next morning I had to say goodbye to the eggs and sausages that had sustained me so well the previous days. I had seconds to prolong the enjoyment. I saw Emma off before finding my way to a train station that would lead to Vienna.

After a short wait I boarded and was on my way. I arrived mid-afternoon and found my way to the hostel. I ended up being in the Summer Dorms, the older and more worn out ones. But they were all I needed and allowed the meeting of many characters. I meet a group of Aussies and extras and headed out to a local pub. It was a strange affair greeted with beer and thumping music. The main guy was well built and covered in tatts making me think I was roughing it somewhere in Russia or the Baltic states. Saturday came around and was filled with a museum and a 60's pschycadelic art exhibition. By the time I headed home the supermarkets were already closed so I could not enjoy the
\n \nSunday bowled around so I gave Mum a call for her birthday only to be greeted with the answerphone. I headed to the local Catholic church with Judith from Germany. She had more a chance of understanding what was going on with Austrian being some form of German, but at times she even got lost. I was really proud when I managed to decipher one whole complete line of a song, thank you 5th form German! I suppose it was also odd in that it was the first time I had been in a Catholic church. Interesting experience, topped off with mass. After lunch I wondered back into the pretty much deserted city centre, as most shops have to be closed on Sunday. I hit the Natural History Museum first. It contained both live and dead things as well as an impressive collection of minerals and meteorites. Again I was confronted and confused by different worlds. I lamented seeing all the stuffed animals knowing that this maybe the only way our kids will see many of the beasts roaming the world today. Destructive greed. I hope there is some sort of resetting in the restoration. I wondered through the Hofburg Palace on the way to the Stephansdom. I was able to get some quiet time despite the muttering of tourists round about. I really appreciate these beautiful churches that have stood the test of time. I wonder what we can learn from them. The day was done so I regrouped back at the hostel for pasta. \n\n \nMonday I was time to move on. I have been told the night before that if the weather is good I should try to make my way to Cesky Krumlov for a few nights of chilling outside of a main city. I found a hostel, booked and planned my train trip. I gave Mum a quick call. She told me about Steve Irwin. I have been unexpectedly saddened by his death. I suppose its similar to the death of Rod Donald. Both men were wholly dedicated to what they believed in and put their all into it. I feel greatly challenged by their lives through their deaths. I had some time to kill before my train so headed to the \n",1]
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0.40 euro beers of the night before.

Sunday bowled around so I gave Mum a call for her birthday only to be greeted with the answerphone. I headed to the local Catholic church with Judith from Germany. She had more a chance of understanding what was going on with Austrian being some form of German, but at times she even got lost. I was really proud when I managed to decipher one whole complete line of a song, thank you 5th form German! I suppose it was also odd in that it was the first time I had been in a Catholic church. Interesting experience, topped off with mass. After lunch I wondered back into the pretty much deserted city centre, as most shops have to be closed on Sunday. I hit the Natural History Museum first. It contained both live and dead things as well as an impressive collection of minerals and meteorites. Again I was confronted and confused by different worlds. I lamented seeing all the stuffed animals knowing that this maybe the only way our kids will see many of the beasts roaming the world today. Destructive greed. I hope there is some sort of resetting in the restoration. I wondered through the Hofburg Palace on the way to the Stephansdom. I was able to get some quiet time despite the muttering of tourists round about. I really appreciate these beautiful churches that have stood the test of time. I wonder what we can learn from them. The day was done so I regrouped back at the hostel for pasta.

Monday I was time to move on. I have been told the night before that if the weather is good I should try to make my way to Cesky Krumlov for a few nights of chilling outside of a main city. I found a hostel, booked and planned my train trip. I gave Mum a quick call. She told me about Steve Irwin. I have been unexpectedly saddened by his death. I suppose its similar to the death of Rod Donald. Both men were wholly dedicated to what they believed in and put their all into it. I feel greatly challenged by their lives through their deaths. I had some time to kill before my train so headed to the
\n\n \nThe next day after cruising and touring the castle, which has had bears in the moat since 1553 in support in of an owners bogus history, I joined a crew for a rafting expedition. It was more of a float than raft, but along the way we stopped for beers at random riverside shack pubs. They were welcome watering stops before heading further down the river. We ended with a rapid before heading home. \n\n \nThe next day I was up and early to get my train towards Plzen. Unfortunately my connecting train hit a car on the way so was 30 mins late. However, through shortened stops and I guess faster speeds we made up most of the time and I was able to catch my train to Plzen. Plzen is home to the pilsner, first brewed there in 1842, and what better way to celebrate that than touring the Pilsner Urquell plant. I first got lost and ended up at the truck entrance but with some paced walking I just made the English tour. The highlight of the tour was drinking unfiltered pilsner from one of the 40 left 7,900 ltr brewing barrels 15m underground at \n",1]
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Schönbrunn Palace for a wonder in the gardens, pretty as they were. I finally had a schnitzel before making my way to the train station. I had found some directions to the station and gave myself an hour to get there. However I hadn't used the public transport there so I it took me a little while to work it out. I jumped on the metro and headed to a stop that i thought was right next to the station. I was wrong and disorientated. I found someone who told me to catch a train for one stop. The time was ticking with 15mins before it departed. Thankfully I caught the train and got to the station. I found my train and boarded with minutes to spare. Recovering from the stress the train took off. And where did it stop first? Right where I was in the first place! We had a brief stop which allowed me to race to a supermarket to get food for dins. Finally I was Cesky Krumlov. The map to my hostel was missing but fortunately Lonely Planet knew where it was. I took photos of the town map to guide me on the way. Once there I cooked my sausage and cooled my 1.5 ltr beer. I met Sophie who was actually from Wellington and new some people in the chem department. She took me on a guided tour of the town by night. They even let you roam the castle at night without oversight.

The next day after cruising and touring the castle, which has had bears in the moat since 1553 in support in of an owners bogus history, I joined a crew for a rafting expedition. It was more of a float than raft, but along the way we stopped for beers at random riverside shack pubs. They were welcome watering stops before heading further down the river. We ended with a rapid before heading home.

The next day I was up and early to get my train towards Plzen. Unfortunately my connecting train hit a car on the way so was 30 mins late. However, through shortened stops and I guess faster speeds we made up most of the time and I was able to catch my train to Plzen. Plzen is home to the pilsner, first brewed there in 1842, and what better way to celebrate that than touring the Pilsner Urquell plant. I first got lost and ended up at the truck entrance but with some paced walking I just made the English tour. The highlight of the tour was drinking unfiltered pilsner from one of the 40 left 7,900 ltr brewing barrels 15m underground at
\n \nI finally arrived in Prague but got lost many times finding my hostel. The map I was following was really confusing and I ended up walking around for 40 min with my luggage dragging me down. I almost gave up but when I disarmed my packs I saw the hostel sign in the distance. I chilled there with beer before looking for food. Unfortunately I was conned into Chinese that cost lots more than expected. \n\n \nToday I wondered checking out the second hand and rare CD stores but could not find Fanfare for the Comic Muse anywhere. I joined a walking tour of Prague for the next 6 hrs. It was excellent and even contained another kiwi, Jonathan and we got on excellently. We had a needed pub stop on the way and stayed \n1.5 hrs rather than the usual half hour. But the guide said once the pub stop ended the tour....at 10.30pm after five Norwegians got into the vodka and then absinthe. I loved it and afterwards went for a peddle boat around the river with some Americans I met. I went home via the supermarket to rectify lastnights blow out. Since I can\'t cook for one, I made enough to feed four hungary souls and still have plenty of leftovers for tomorrow at only 2/3 of last night\'s meal. So here I leave it with tomorrow\'s trip to the Bone Church to be arranged. Hope all is well. \n\n \nlove Lynton \n\n",0]
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6.5 oC. I took to the town centre and saw the massive church before heading back for my train.

I finally arrived in Prague but got lost many times finding my hostel. The map I was following was really confusing and I ended up walking around for 40 min with my luggage dragging me down. I almost gave up but when I disarmed my packs I saw the hostel sign in the distance. I chilled there with beer before looking for food. Unfortunately I was conned into Chinese that cost lots more than expected.

Today I wondered checking out the second hand and rare CD stores but could not find Fanfare for the Comic Muse anywhere. I joined a walking tour of Prague for the next 6 hrs. It was excellent and even contained another kiwi, Jonathan and we got on excellently. We had a needed pub stop on the way and stayed 1.5 hrs rather than the usual half hour. But the guide said once the pub stop ended the tour....at 10.30pm after five Norwegians got into the vodka and then absinthe. I loved it and afterwards went for a peddle boat around the river with some Americans I met. I went home via the supermarket to rectify lastnights blow out. Since I can't cook for one, I made enough to feed four hungary souls and still have plenty of leftovers for tomorrow at only 2/3 of last night's meal. So here I leave it with tomorrow's trip to the Bone Church to be arranged. Hope all is well.

love Lynton

2006-08-10T20:18:00.000+12:00

Little have I written of late. I have been rather busy getting ready for my trip to europe. So far I have:
- one pack
- one sleeping bag
- numerous sets of clothes
- one phone
- one lot of cash/travellor cheques
- one passport
- one place to stay in London
- one ticket to Pukkelpop
- return train to Pukkelpop in Belgium
- one eastern Europe rail pass
- 3 nights in Scotland booked
- return travel to Scotland
- one conference in Budapest
- one friend to meet me there
- one room in hotel in Budapest

and thats about it folks. A little stressed about winging it. Ah well its a little late to do much about that. I may disappear for a month or might update here from the otherside of the globe who knows. take care anyhow.

2006-08-01T00:06:00.000+12:00

Psalm 82

Unjust Judgments Rebuked.
A Psalm of Asaph.

1. God takes His stand in His own congregation;
He judges in the midst of the rulers.
2. How long will you judge unjustly
And show partiality to the wicked? Selah.
3. Vindicate the weak and fatherless;
Do justice to the afflicted and destitute.
4. Rescue the weak and needy;
Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.
5. They do not know nor do they understand;
They walk about in darkness;
All the foundations of the earth are shaken.
6. I said, "You are gods,
And all of you are sons of the Most High.
7. "Nevertheless you will die like men
And fall like any one of the princes."
8. Arise, O God, judge the earth!
For it is You who possesses all the nations.

I picture God descending in our midst and demanding, "What the hell are you doing?!" Powerful.

2006-08-01T00:00:00.000+12:00

Mastermind

Every pupil in the classroom will answer the same if you ask them
Every mouth shout the message out as one
Every girl weeps like the willow, every boy cries into his pillow
Every tear disappears in the morning sun
You don't need an indie song to figure out what's going on

Tell me that I'm normal, tell me that I'm sane
Tell me that you feel this too
All the dreams that we have had are gonna prove that we're not mad to you

Every nose is a vacuum cleaner in the loved-up London arena
Every eye flies a dollar sign for me
Every tongue will wag if you want it, every lung has a shadow on it
Every heart comes apart at the seams
You don't need a mastermind to read between the long white lines
Tell me that I'm normal, tell me that I'm sane
Tell me that you feel this too
All the dreams that we have had are gonna prove that we're not mad to you

Well we all need reassurance as we play life's game of endurance
Like a nice cup of tea or a cigarette
But don't lean too long on your crutches or you'll fall straight into the clutches
Of those who see free expression as a threat
You don't need a law degree to set your mind and spirit free
So tell me what the hell is normal and who the hell is sane?
And why the hell care anyway?
All the dreams that we have had are gonna prove that we're all mad and that's OK

2006-07-31T21:22:00.000+12:00

i figured you out

seen you watching
her every time she crosses the floor
so just go and talk to
someone you really adore
i’m getting pretty used to being
the one you always ignore
when somebody wants you
i’ve seen it before

you’re every kind of color
there ain’t nothing that you won’t claim
your ambition and promise
and your addiction to fame
and everyone’s got a dollar
sign after their name
when somebody wants you
you treat ‘em just the same

so go on and pick up
you don’t care what poison you choose
or what person you’ll use
should’ve been me, yeah
shouldn’t it be?

crushing quiet
crawls in through your window
from someone who wants you
but you’ll never know
i’ll pick up around you
clear everything out
leave you where i found you
i figured you out

2006-07-30T12:49:00.000+12:00

About your gas guzzler - it's a sin

Hurrah, at least one church is prophesying!

2006-07-25T09:16:00.000+12:00

Hosea 4
The Charge Against Israel (and perhaps us)

1 Hear the word of the LORD, you Israelites,
because the LORD has a charge to bring
against you who live in the land:
"There is no faithfulness, no love,
no acknowledgment of God in the land.
2 There is only cursing, lying and murder,
stealing and adultery;
they break all bounds,
and bloodshed follows bloodshed.
3 Because of this the land mourns,
and all who live in it waste away;
the beasts of the field and the birds of the air
and the fish of the sea are dying.

I found it interesting that this passage shows the connection between man's rankness and the death of creation.

2006-07-11T14:42:00.000+12:00

Seven years to save our world - US eco crusader

2006-07-08T22:59:00.001+12:00

In musing on the difficulties we often have contextualising scripture into our own context that also does justice to the original context and audience, I thought it would be brilliant if we had a third testament or new new testament. It would be collection of letters, sermons, papers and stories drawn from the far reaches of church history and all church traditions that tell of our Spirit led journey. It would be a huge challenge to put together but it could potentially lead to more unity amongst this diverse body.

2006-07-08T22:59:00.000+12:00

I feel compelled to research New Zealand's history.

2006-07-08T22:45:00.000+12:00

Tonight I watched the Proposition. Set back in the colonial days of Australia, the law man Stanley offers pardon for two brothers if one hunts down and kills his older brother. More info can be found here. Be warned it is very brutal. During the film I was exposed to despicable treatment of Aborigines. I wonder if we have advanced and become more ‘civilised’ than those Australian settlers or will our great great grandchildren look back in shame and disgust at the way we treated other peoples or creatures.

2006-07-08T13:39:00.000+12:00

Whilst strolling up the hill to uni today, I was reflecting on a paper that investigated the relationship between scientific and spiritial beliefs as found in scientists. They concluded that personal experience was a major influence upon both beliefs especially on topics where the scientific and spiritual are in opposition. When I reflect upon my own life I find this to be true. I believe in God, the god who came to earth to redeem the creation, because of various experiences I have had. On the otherhand, a lot of people don't believe in this god also due to their experience of him, especially as he is reflected through us. To call them to follow Jesus, therefore, requires us to provide a true experience of him through the spirit with love.

2006-07-02T22:31:00.000+12:00

Forum of the Christian Left (FOCaL) Conference 2006 "Church and Society after Election 2005"

Over the past few of years I have found myself swinging from the far right on the political spectrum to the centre-left to left end of the spectrum. This is evident in my voting: Christian Heritage in 2002 and the Greens in 2005. I was asked why this was so last night by Amanda from the Maxim Institute whilst enjoying some tasty Malay. I guess this process began when I was confronted with preterism. For the first time I was jolted to think and work through different theological positions outside of catechism. That particular issue transformed me from being a happy earth destroyer to a somewhat vocal environmentalist. It also opened up the possibility to engage with many other ideas and thoughts. Hence I have drifted from the Right mooring to the lagoon of Left. Overall, however, I think I am still an inconsistent mixed bag of both right and left ideas.

Anyway here are some thoughts/notes from the lectures and discussions:

The Christian right has clear goals and ideals that it stands for (eg the tightly packed Family Values) .

The Christian left struggles as it doesn't know what it stands for and often is only sure of what it doesn't like. It has lost it's direction.

The Christian left voice is important but must take care in dialogue with the government and the Christian right so as to not end up just throwing grenades at each other from our appropriate trenches.

Scripture provides language that modern Christians are to articulate their experience of the world rather than being a source that we can plunder for support of our ideas.

I Kings 21 "Naboth vs Ahab": Challenge to the Church
> allegiance is primarily to the Kingdom of God, not the secular state.
> Churches agenda should not be subordinate to the secular state
> The Church can and should support the rulers when both regard the welfare of the weakest and vulnerable members of society as their highest priority.
> The prophetic vocation of the church is as the critic and conscience of society, speaking out against social, legal, economic and political injustices
> This passage was used by Maori to express how they felt regarding their land.

Jesus was very political. Reasons why he is often seen as apolitcal:
> Holding to modern ideas about politics (eg separation of church and state) when looking at the text
> The interpretive grid of western individualism (Jesus was a solitary figure engaging individuals)
> Fragmentary strategies (missing the view of the whole story)
> Jesus' prophetic character is squeezed out by emphasis of his divinity
> Reading that Jesus' kingdom is seen as not of this world. Texts often used John 18:35-38 and Mark 12:13-17

In ethics Christians should be:
> Realists
> Inconsistent (contextually based)
> Radical (struggling with the status quo)
> Concerned for everyone

2006-06-27T22:57:00.000+12:00

A day in the lab

Today was unlike most days in the lab, filled to the brim with dramas. We had one small acetone fire, exploding reflux reactions, leaking distillation apparatus and my very own introduction of sodium to dilute acid. Whilst attempting to demonstrate to an honours student how to cut sodium, the piece I cut flew from my scissors into a nearby beaker. I first thought it contained just methanol as it fizzed away. But then I saw it ignite. I quickly and calmly removed the can of sodium and open solvent from near the area. I turned back to see the 2 litre beaker blow apart with a huge cloud of smoke. I have experienced sodium in water but not in the confines of a beaker. The fire alarms thankfully didn't go off and I was able to reasonably explain my accident as more or less as a fluke of jumping sodium. Some videos of note: the near full range of alkali metals in water and sodium in a less explosive vessel.

2006-06-27T21:42:00.000+12:00

I have found myself to be rather attracted to nose studs. Nothing that screams out for attention, but a small stone that draws one to dwell on the beautiful visage that bears it.

2006-06-26T21:06:00.000+12:00

Man NT Wright is the mantis! After defending him and the reading of his material a priori, I have finally experienced his scholarship, finally finishing "What St Paul Really Said." I feel sorry for all the reactionaries who will never experience his writings and for our tradition as a whole with the push to insulate ourselves from his work. I liked this quote near the end of the book:

"The gospel of God, today and tomorrow as in Paul's day, is not something to analyze, understand, put in our intellectual pockets and go home content. It is something which, if its very truth is not to be fatally compromised, must become, as it did in Jesus, flesh and blood. That which was unveiled before an unprepared world in Jesus Christ must be unveiled again and again, as those who believe in Jesus Christ live by the Spirit and, in life as well as in word, announce the gospel to the world."

My only regret is the lack of speed with which I have read this book or any book in fact. By the time I am at the end, the ideas and thoughts from the rest of the book are rather sketchy.

2006-06-26T21:01:00.000+12:00

Some cold and tiring Sundays I can't be bothered going to church in the evening. But each time I am blessed anew and encouraged beyond what I imagined. It is here that I have glimpses of my new life, my new calling and new direction. It is here that I often find comfort, joy and peace. I don't know what I shall do when I leave Wellington!

2006-06-26T20:56:00.001+12:00

It can often be refreshing to see a new side of a person. After many years holding memories of annoyance, it is nice to see that he has a friendly face. Has he chilled out more, or have I done the chilling out? Or is it simply a matter of maturity that has allowed me to look past the initial plaster wall I erected all those years ago?

2006-06-18T22:05:00.000+12:00

Substance with substance

"There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28

Tonight in the sermon it was expounded that Paul is not arguing for radical equality but radial unity. For we are all different but all united in Christ. Love and unity, we need more of these in the body as the whole. I love Substance in that it draws together people from many Christian traditions (I think the Anglicans make up a minority) to worship together and celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection in the Lord Supper. I can eat the bread and drink the wine with my fellow Anglican, Reformy, Baptist, Evangelical, Presbyterian...and sometimes Catholic because we are all one in Christ Jesus.

2006-06-13T07:36:00.000+12:00

Radiohead, Belle & Sebastian, Beck, Mew, Snow Patrol.....

Here I come!!!!!! In belgium of all places.

http://www.pukkelpop.be/

2006-06-12T12:27:00.000+12:00

FOCaL Conference 2006 "Church and Society after Election 2005"

The FOCAL Conference, 30 June – 1 July. FOCAL is the “Forum of the Christian Left”. The Conference involves contributions from a wide range of people, including Judy Turner (United Future), Jim Anderton (Progressive Coalition), Chester Burrows (National), and Marion Hobbs (Labour).
http://www.focal.org.nz/conference.htm

Check it out. I think I shall go to this one.

2006-06-10T22:47:00.000+12:00

Life:
- hours with test tubes
- hours of talk
- hours of sleep
- minutes of reflection
- minutes of frustration
- minutes of anger
- seconds of light
- seconds of direction
- seconds of hope
- no breakdown....yet

2006-06-10T22:43:00.000+12:00

We tend to address the issues of today that can be tackled with a regulative response instead of missional response.

2006-05-27T18:21:00.000+12:00

Come, taste and dowload:

http://www.elliottsmithbsides.com/
http://www.trashtreasury.com/

2006-05-25T12:49:00.000+12:00

One of the most beautiful and sad songs I have ever heard.

Sufjan Stevens - Casimir Pulaski Day

Golden rod and the 4-H stone
The things I brought you
When I found out you had cancer of the bone

Your father cried on the telephone
And he drove his car to the Navy yard
Just to prove that he was sorry

In the morning through the window shade
When the light pressed up against your shoulder blade
I could see what you were reading

Oh the glory that the Lord has made
And the complications you could do without
When I kissed you on the mouth

Tuesday night at the bible study
We lift our hands and pray over your body
But nothing ever happens

I remember at Michael's house
In the living room when you kissed my neck
And I almost touched your blouse

In the morning at the top of the stairs
When your father found out what we did that night
And you told me you were scared

Oh the glory when you ran outside
With your shirt tucked in and your shoes untied
And you told me not to follow you

Sunday night when I cleaned the house
I find the card where you wrote it out
With the pictures of your mother

On the floor at the great divide
With my shirt tucked in and my shoes untied
I am crying in the bathroom

In the morning when you finally go
And the nurse runs in with her head hung low
And the cardinal hits the window

In the morning in the winter shade
On the first of March on the holiday
I thought I saw you breathing

Oh the glory that the Lord has made
And the complications when I see His face
In the morning in the window

Oh the glory when He took our place
But He took my shoulders and He shook my face
And He takes and He takes and He takes

2006-05-25T12:47:00.000+12:00

Mecury thermometers are not for bunsen burners,
and fingers are not for heating mantles.

2006-05-10T18:37:00.000+12:00

Yesterday morning I thought I would leave for uni early to have a long and productive day. Not long into the cycle I was crusing through Tory St remembering I needed to email such and such about this and that. Suddenly this van turns right right into my path. The rest is a bit sketchy as we both slammed on our breaks before I was thrown into the vehicle taking most of the impact with my right shoulder. I sat down on the road for second, feeling the pain build up before hopping to the foot path.
The driver quickly came to my aid and was very apologetic. He said he had not seen me until it was too late. Nausia arrived soon after. He took me and my bike to the A&E. On the way he informed me of his earlier narrow escape. Earlier that very morning, after he had just hopped out of his larger van to get something, a truck smahed into it, demolishing it(maybe he was still in shock when he took me out).
After a short wait, 2 panadol and a couple of x-rays I was sent packing with a sling to carry my rather sore but not fractured shoulder. I was kindly picked up by Emma's boyfriend Brendon and finally arrived at uni 1.5 hrs than I normally do. I am now handicapped from the lab until I can stretch out my arm again.
The moral of the story is: don't bother trying to be early. Or perhaps this was just an answer to an unrequested prayer, for I was going to see the doctor about this very shoulder the next day anyhow and couldn't think of an accident to attribute to it for ACC. Now I can!

I fought the van and the van won.

2006-05-08T09:38:00.000+12:00

Lesslie Newbigin, The Finality of Christ (via RD)

It has become customary to classify views on the relation of Christianity to the world religions as either pluralist, exclusivist, or inclusivist... [My] position is exclusivist in the sense that it affirms the unique truth of the revelation in Jesus Christ, but it is not exclusivist in the sense of denying the possibility of the salvation of the non-Christian. It is inclusivist in the sense that it refuses to limit the saving grace of God to the members of the Christian church, but it rejects the inclusivism which regards the non-Christian religions as vehicles of salvation. It is pluralist in the sense of acknowledging the gracious work of God in the lives of all human beings, but it rejects a pluralism which denies the uniqueness and decisiveness of what God has done in Jesus Christ.

2006-04-24T16:01:00.000+12:00

Lectures coming up:
George Bush on Campus: Christians in Wartime

DATE : Wednesday April 26
TIME : 5.30pm
VENUE : Ramsey House (8 Kelburn parade)

Rev. Dr. Patrick Sookhdeo will speak this coming Friday on the global expansion of Islam, the suffering Church, and what an appropriate Christian response might be.

DATE : Friday 28 April
TIME : 7:30pm
VENUE : St Michael's Church, Upland Road, Kelburn (near the shops)

2006-04-10T08:15:00.000+12:00

I wrote these notes to some a few weeks ago. Maybe you have some thoughts on it too.

I feel motivated to write down and share some thoughts I have recently had regarding the perceived negativity of the Wellington region youth (the presbytery in general). This negativity has been be felt by more that just me and is most noted at Queen’s Birthday Camps, where mainly the Wellington region youth attend. There is a very negative ‘vibe’, who’s cause I am unable to pin down. The vibe puts me off wanting to go to these camps. On the other hand, I love Easter Camps where mainly the Auckland region youth attend. They have such a positive and encouraging vibe. I know what I am saying is rather vague but others too have felt the contrasting atmospheres when these two groups meet.
One possible difference is that in the North they generally have a more open faith. They are more willing to share their faith with others. For example, as I think back, the majority of youth at prayer meetings come from the North. This maybe due to the North having a less cluttered faith, characterised by wanting to live their lives for their Lord and Saviour. We down South, tend to be more worried about and focused on what we should believe as part of this faith. Thus we are more often arguing about theology, than talking about the struggles and joys in our walk. The rivalry between churches on merely theological grounds doesn’t help our positivity. Is there something we, as church and youth leaders, can do to encourage the sharing and up building of our faiths? One idea I had was that at Queen’s Birthday Camps the youth could be divided up into small groups for the evening devotions which would be led by two older youth (one male, one female). The two older youth can share their faith, struggles and workings of God in their lives. I think this would be positive for both parties even though it would be scary at first.
Another area of concern is our language. We are often mocking or bringing others down for the sake of humour. We aren’t good at speaking positively or encouragingly to each other. This adds to the negative atmosphere. I think we might need to come up with creative ways to tackle this that go beyond just saying it’s wrong because we all know that.

Well these were a few thoughts I had. I am happy to discuss them further and get involved in trying to tackle these problems. Have a good week!

Cheers,
Lynton

2006-03-31T08:10:00.001+12:00

I feel like Noah

I, like Noah, have been given an insight into the future; one that is important to all mankind, and indeed the whole creation.

"As it was in the days of Noah....in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away."

Will this history repeat? Will people refuse to listen and act? Will I have right words to open their eyes?

2006-03-27T22:31:00.000+12:00

Should I be a player?
I am undecided whether I should get a student loan to bank the money, earn interest and then pay it back after I have finished my studies. Free money for me but it screws the country even more instead. I could look to others for justification, like the children of self-employed that play the system and get full allowances when they are even better off than our family. But maybe I should make the sacrifice for the greater good.

I learnt that during Lent you can do what you are refraining from on Sundays. Hmm. Maybe I should be strong for go not buying CDs for the full 6 weeks anyway.

Tomorrow I go to a Climate Change conference. I would like to find a way to call the church to recognise and decide how we should deal with it.

I walked and ran (a little) for 5hrs as part of the relay for life on Saturday/Sunday. Me, Shivali and Emma took the grave yard shift from 2-5am. I was cheered on as 'beard man', 'the beard dude' or occasionally 'Rolf Harris' and the girls referred to as my groupies. They were not impressed. I think it would be cool to have a church team next year; having a presence, recognising the suffering, offering hope through the Life, death and resurrection. Somehow I don't see the Reformed church being keen.

NT Wright is the man when it comes to theology. 'What Saint Paul Really Said' best theological book to date (not quite finished). I was happy to find this after defending him without reading much of him.

I love biking through the rain at night and acknowledging that I am a hardcore.

Indoor soccer was fun but sitting on the sideline I was glad that we were all reformies, with all the mild verbal abuse going on.

2006-03-23T08:03:00.000+12:00

The Mountain Goats anyone?

2006-03-23T07:50:00.000+12:00

The News is mere entertainment. I probably learn more useful information during the Ads.

Is America doing another Vietnam? I guess that's what happens when you invade a country whose civilians you don't really care for.

Iraq will likely be doing this soon. I know of at least one Iraqi Christian who warned this would happen after Saddam was gone. Stupid Bush.

A John Howard's Speech re:Iraq.

2006-03-15T20:01:00.000+13:00

Last week was a crazy ol' week. Tuesday I traveled up to Hamilton with Anna and Jason to farewell Jasmine, a happy, bubbly character who I was only just beginning to get to know. How could someone so young be taken? Then it was back for Pajo, David Pajo. It was mint to see his short set with bells at his feet. He played all the favourites of mine but could have gone on longer. Welly's own Ghostplane sounded worth a listen. Tonight I head down to Bar Bodega once more but this time for Lou Barlow who is more famous but not so much. So enjoy your night, as I shall alone.

2006-03-10T11:06:00.000+13:00

Oh God Where Are You Now?

Artist: Sufjan Stevens
Album: Michigan
Year: 2003

Oh God, hold me now.
Oh Lord, hold me now.
There's no other man
who could raise the dead.
So do what you can
to anoint my head.

Oh God, where are you now?
Oh Lord save somehow.
The Devil is hard on my face again
The world is a hundred to one again.

Would the righteous still remain?
Would my body stay the same?

Oh God hold me now .
Oh God touch me now.
There's no other man
who could save the dead.
There's no other garden
to place our head.

Would the righteous still remain?
Would my body stay the same?

There's no other man
who could raise the dead.
So do what you can
to anoint my head.
Oh God hold me now.
Oh Lord touch me now.

2006-02-26T16:47:00.000+13:00

Ed Harcourt: Metaphorically Yours

2006-02-23T20:08:00.000+13:00

Oh yes there's more. Jens Lekman, a Swede, is coming our way on the 18th of March to perform at Happy. The MP3s that he provides suggest he should been seen live. Think Nick Drake, Beck, Belle and Sebastian and Todd Rundgren. He will be going solo without all the horns and arrangements but still I am sure it will be a performance to see! MP3 here and here and here.

2006-02-23T13:14:00.000+13:00

Stress + tiredness = no emotional self control

2006-02-22T22:42:00.000+13:00

Oh they can be funny, ol' Belle and Sebastian: Meat and Potatoes

2006-02-20T21:12:00.000+13:00

I AM going to see David Pajo on the 9th of March at Bodega having purchased the first ticket today at Slowboat for $26. I dig his solo album, Pajo, recorded on his laptop.

2006-02-19T22:17:00.000+13:00

Today I participated in the best sermon for some while. It was written and delivered by one Rev Goris. The text was Matthew 11:1-11 and the sermon was entitled "It happens to the best of people". The scene opens with Jesus beginning his ministry after assembling and instructing His 12 disciples. John the Baptist who is now in jail sends word to Jesus via his own disciples asking Him whether in fact He was the Messiah. Jesus sends them back having witnessed His ministry: "the blind receive sight and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.” They go off and Jesus then reminds the crowds that John is a great prophet, even the greatest, sent to prepare the way for the Messiah.
After previously announcing that Jesus was the Christ (John 3:22-36) he begins to doubt. One possible explanation of this doubting can be found in his expectation of the Messiah’s work. In Matthew 3 John called the crowds to repent for the kingdom was at hand. He was the messenger sent before the Messiah to make “ready the way of the LORD” (Isaiah 40:3). Latter on in the chapter he warns of the judgement to come. The Messiah was going to bring this judgment with Him (vs. 12). This is inline with the prophecy of Malachi. The messenger and new Elijah, now identified as John, was to make way for the LORD who was going to come with judgement fires upon the unfaithful and with healing for the faithful (Malachi 3-4) . Jesus hadn’t yet done so and John saw the unfaithful still all around him. Jesus then reminds John that the Messiah had another part to His ministry by referring to His description in Isaiah 61:1. God graciously allowed Israel a time for repentance and to recognise Jesus as their long sort after Saviour before He did finally fulfil His other role as Judge, cumulating in the final destruction of the Jerusalem and the temple in AD70. These were some thoughts I had that seem to put more of the puzzle pieces together.
This was not, however, the point Rev Goris was driving at. John, the forerunner of the Messiah, was imprisoned by Herod. John must have wondered why God was working in this way and began to wonder if ministry had failed. He was no longer sure that Jesus was the Messiah. In response to John’s doubting, Jesus points him back to the Scriptures. John had to be reminded of the big picture. He had a short ministry before Jesus to prepare His way. Once Jesus began His ministry, it was even John who said that Jesus must increase and he decrease (John 3:30). He was the best man not the bridegroom. When the great Light to the world came, his lamp faded away to the background. His job was done, his “joy…has been made full.” But when he faced the fear of death under Herod his faith was temporally shaken.
We too must turn the scriptures and like Habakkuk wrestle with God in prayer when we suffer doubts in our lives. ‘Why do I suffer this and that and why must people die in such and such,’ are some of the many questions we have of God. Rather than focusing on the doubts we must remember to call on God and turn to His word. God has a plan which He is unfolding even in and through our own lives. By remembering this then, He may strengthen our faith so that we may respond like Habakkuk when he sung:

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.”

Habakkuk 3:17-18

2006-02-19T20:12:00.000+13:00

I love patterns; I love predictability. I will often try to avoid doing things when the result is unknown. I will ask the price of something when I am almost certain I already know what it is. I will avoid asking about ticket prices when I don't know what they are. I guess I fear having to make a decision on the spot when presented with information on seconds earlier.

2006-02-11T16:42:00.000+13:00

Today we had the unveiling ceremony at my Pop's grave. The pastor recalled a few traits of Pop:
- Pop's consistency. He was always there thru thick and thin.
- Pop's authenticity. He was always real and straight up.
- Pop's unselfishness. He always looked out for others.
To this day Nana and Pop are two of the greatest Christians I have ever known.

I also recalled what Pop said to me when we said our last goodbye:
-keep living my life for Jesus
-keep setting a good example for my siblings and cousins
-make sure I look after Mum and Dad

I sure hope I can do him proud.