Testimony ~ Susan

Susan's Testimony.

"I have been attending the teaching sessions at The Healing Ministry Centre (Golden Grove) in Newtown since 1993. I would have to concur with the friend who said, "It's like sitting at the feet of Jesus" - I guess that's why people of all denominations attend.
The Healing Ministry Centre is a place bathed in God's love; an oasis in the middle of a bustling city. It is a place where transformations happen, and its Monday teaching sessions, given by Canon Jim Holbeck, provide a wonderful start to the week. I never fail to leave more up-lifted than when I arrived.
Salvation means wholeness, and people are certainly enabled to become more "whole” here - in body, mind and spirit. As Margaret Court wrote: "It's not enough to have a light snack of God's Word on a Sunday if we want to live in victory every day of the week. ... It's no time to try to develop our faith when we are in the middle of a time of great testing. That's when we need to use the faith we already have. If we are constantly feeding ourselves faith (God's Word) when we don't need it, we will be able to release it when we do."
From first-hand experience, I can say that to be able to act on God's Word when those times of trial hit, has shown me the importance of trusting Him - taking Him at His Word. We pray, God answers, and He answers in all areas of life, including physical healing - which has not just happened to me personally, but also to family members.
The teaching received at The Healing Ministry Centre in Newtown, combined with Jim's lecture notes, is so thorough that I've found myself not needing to buy so many books. When it comes to understanding the text, if knowing the Greek will bring a fuller understanding to the English, Jim explains the Greek. It's so illuminating. Then there's the way he pulls together the Old Testament with the New which brings an added dimension. There can be no more wonderful thing than to know fully what we have in Jesus and to be able to act on it. Not just simply to believe in God, but to believe God - to take Him at His Word - that what He promises, He delivers, and to be so secure in this.
What have I experienced at the Centre? A sense of being bathed in God's love. The development of a far more intimate relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and the enabling to put God's Word into action in my life. To have the freedom Jesus promised - to have life and have it to the full. That's what's been opened up for me. It's all been God's doing. I'm just a willing participant in an exciting journey; a journey that everyone's invited to come on."

(www.healingministrysydney.org)

1 Tim. 4:4-5 Everything God created is good, and to be received with thanks. Nothing is to be sneered at and thrown out. God's Word and our prayers make every item in creation holy. (Message)

Leongatha

Saturday we went to Leongatha, in the afternoon. It was good to have a little look around the town. Then we went to a Chinese restaurant for dinner, and the Mongolian Sizzling Steak was delicious.

We then went to see the Melbourne Staff Songsters, in the Leongatha Secondary College Hall. The Songsters were in good form, and presented a fine evening, with much blessing. The Songster's Executive officer, was also in form and communicated the necessity to allow Jesus to be with you in all situations of life. The evening flowed naturally, and the format was constructed very well.

A great night! Thank you MSS!

Psalm 118:8-9 Far better to take refuge in God than trust in people; Far better to take refuge in God than trust in celebrities. (Message)

DIS-EASE

I remember a visit by the then Commissioner, and he asked how we were going. We said fine, we do not have time to be sick. His response was, “There are a lot of people who do have the time.”

Health and wholeness, is a complex issue. Whatever the positional stance you take in regards to health, wholeness, and healing, there are some who will take the completely opposite position.

We live in a world where, even with the progress in modern medicines, and medical procedures, illness is still rife. Peoples’ emotions run riot, when hospitals, doctors, and medical staff, are unable to meet there needs, in a reasonable time frame. There are waiting lists that seem to be increasing in length for major health issues. People requiring a higher standard of health service, and they also require it right now, irrespective of their personal lifestyles, and the abuses inflicted on their own bodies.

In addition, man handed the title deed of the world over to the Devil and his forces. What was a pristine world, where God and man walked together in the cool of the evening, has become a cesspool of dis-ease. The real question remains, ‘In what arena does the real battle over disease, need to be won?’

Exodus 15:26
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee. (KJV)

OIL

Psalm 133:1-3 A pilgrim song of David
How wonderful, how beautiful, when brothers and sisters get along! It's like costly anointing oil flowing down head and beard, Flowing down Aaron's beard, flowing down the collar of his priestly robes. It's like the dew on Mount Hermon flowing down the slopes of Zion. Yes, that's where God commands the blessing, ordains eternal life. (Message)

There are some scriptures that bring a smile to the faces of the congregation. This is one of those, particularly when I read it. For some reason, their minds just tick over into the visual, and observe the practical outpouring of the blessings of God.

The use of annointing oil, is rejected by some, however there is a place for this in ministry, along with the laying on of hands. What can we do to open the way for these forms of ministry? It would seem that we live in a non-touch suspicious society, responding from a position where there have been previous hurts.

YOUNG

In his book “Transformed! 10 Principles for Sustaining Genuine Revival”, Alistair P. Petrie wrote the following on page 194.
‘On one occasion when Duncan Campbell was preaching a sermon, he paused and looked at one of the young lads in the congregation and sensed that the young man was in contact with the Lord. He asked this young man, whose name was Donald McPhail, if he would be willing to lead the congregation in prayer:
The young man rose to his feet . . . he began to sob, and lifting his eyes toward heaven, cried, “Oh God, there is power, let it lose!” The spirit of God swept into the building and the heavens were opened. The church resembled a battlefield. On one side many were prostrated over the seats weeping and sighing; on the other side some were affected by throwing their arms up in the air in a rigid posture for an hour. God had come.
The power of youth at prayer - amazing! Exciting! Profound!’

It is refreshing to see the energy and desire of the young generation, as they seek to live holy lives that are pleasing to God.


John 1:12-13
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (KJV)

Words

With the hype surrounding the release of the latest book in the “Harry Potter” series. I was wondering what do people read?
A profitable book in my library does not get used as much as others. It is full of the most useful information, required by the reader. The words have their own impact for truth, however I am not inclined to read it from cover to cover. I do wonder if there are people who do read this book, and digest its contents?
You may have guessed, that the book is a ‘Dictionary’. Although a dictionary is filled with many engaging words, I do not feel compelled to read page after page.


Psalm 19:14
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. (KJV)

Combined Worship

This afternoon around 90 people from a variety of Congregations joined in a combined worship time, at the Churches of Christ complex. It was a great time, and the beginning of a resurgence of unity within our community. A highlight was the prayer for the needs of various fellowships, and some particular peoples' needs. The fellowship time that followed, was enriching with the support of soup, sandwiches, and slices.

This was the second combined gathering this year, and we have another to come later.

Ephes. 4:3 alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences. (Message)

Aussie Brothers in Derby ~ ECHO Reports

Just got some info sent by a proud dad, who I played cricket with in my last cricket club, Macleod. His two boys are playing cricket in England, and were due to play against each other on Saturday 30th June. The Echo, had an article featuring the brothers, as the Everards Cricket League Div. One, derby approached. Tim, playing for Barrow Town, and Rob playing for Quorn. Both bat & bowl, however, Tim is a quick opening bowler. I can personally attest to his quickness, as I have faced him in the practice nets. Sadly the match was washed out.

Both Rob and Tim, are fine cricketers, who are entertaining to watch as they apply their skills on the field.

Laughter

Billy burst into the room, I've finished the jigsaw in just two weeks!!! Why are you so thrilled about finishing the jigsaw in two weeks? Because the box said, 2 to 4 years!!!

Ha, ha, ha, ha

Psalm 126:2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. (KJV)

SNOW

(Small Hill in center with white blotches ~ snow)

As I sat at my desk today, I had an amazing view. Gazing to my left, through two doorways, and then a window in the Hall Foyer, to a hill just out of town, which had snow on it. What a glorious sight!!!
At one point the clouds parted and the sun’s rays poured over the hill causing the snow to glow brilliant white, as it reflected the glorious rays of the sun. What a contrast from the dark clouds that released the snowflakes, to settle on the hill.



Isaiah 55:10-11
Just as rain and snow descend from the skies and don't go back until they've watered the earth, doing their work of making things grow and blossom, producing seed for farmers and food for the hungry, so will the words that come out of my mouth not come back empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll complete the assignment I gave them. (Message).

CRICKET

A new Coach has been appointed to the Cricket Club for the up-coming season. He is one of the local members of the Club, and a fine top order left-hand batsman. Although this will be my first full season at the Club, it will be interesting to see the Club's progress under new leadership. The new coach lead a few training drills last season, and I was exhausted, at their conclusion. So it should be a good season of development, and fitness.

For the other guy's training commences on Sunday 29th July. For me the start will be early September, when training commences on Tuesday's and Thursday's.

I do enjoy cricket, and that places me right in the middle of a wonderful mission field!!!

Matthew 9:36-38 When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. "What a huge harvest!" he said to his disciples. "How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!" (Message)

PREACH THE WORD

As a wonderfully blessed introvert, I am not sure how all you extraverts cope with having to hang it all out in public ~ so to speak. For one thing I don’t rant and rave when I’m preaching. (Not that I’m aware of.) I do like to feel that the congregation is with me, and understanding what I’m talking about. However, I do not feel the need to have the congregation shout responses back to me. (Although there are times when this can be exciting when someone else is doing the preaching bit.)

I believe that Sunday’s meetings were very profitable for the Kingdom. In the morning we had some flexibility, as Gwyn got the comrades out of their seats and moving around the hall, where we sang and prayed, before moving back to our seats. It was my turn to do the preaching bit, and simply shared, the Transfiguration as a pivotal point in Peter’s Life. Before getting into the Word, we sang the chorus, ‘Show us thy glory, Christ of the mount.’ The congregation sang it heartily, and with deep emotion. Very moving!!!

At the conclusion of the meeting, a visitor said that she was intrigued that I seemed totally complete in the message, that I did not need anything else, or anyone else. Congregations of 2 or 602 do not seem much different to me, so there must be some truth in what she said.

For myself, emotionally and spiritually, I was revisiting a couple of places. Firstly, a Corps Camp led by the C.O’s Kingsley and Margaret Armstrong, more than 35 years ago. Secondly revisiting Israel itself.

The real value is how the Word impacts the hearer. On this day, the same lady, and others in the congregation, were blessed by God and his Word. Hallelujah.

Psalm 119:105
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (KJV).

FAMILY

Just reviewing some of our family tree.

John Rowe married Mary Paull ~ 7 July 1810
Illogan, Cornwall, UK.
b. Thomas Henry, 1812 ~ Tavistock, Devon, UK

Richard Barrett married Charity Richards ~ 6 April 1801
Marytavy, Devonshire, UK
b. Charity
b. Alexander
b. Archelaus
b. Ambrose
b. William
b. Ann
b. Elizabeth Ann, 2 March 1818 ~ Plymouth, Devonshire, UK.
b. James
b. Hannah


Thomas Henry Rowe married Elizabeth Ann Barrett ~ 12 January 1836
Tavistock, Devon, UK
b. Elizabeth Ann (Rayner)
b. Hannah Maria (Ford)
b. Mary Jane/Ann (Pilcher)
b. Thomas Henry
Boarded the “ABOUKIR” at Plymouth 20 May 1847, and set sail for Australia, arrived in Adelaide, South Australia, 11 September 1847.
Moved to Burra Burra.
b. Ellen Matilda (Walker)
b. Selina (Rowland)
Moved to Victoria, in 1851/52.
b. William James
b. Emma Matilda (Ladd)
b. Florence Charity (Miller)
b. Ambrose Barrett, 23 March 1860 ~ Adelaide Lead, Victoria. (Annie Susannah Cloke) ~ Great Grandparents (See blog ~ Generations ~ 27 March 2007)
b. Isaac Barrett



Ephes. 3:14-15
For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, (KJV).

Quiet Hours

The last few weeks have been quite hectic. Moving from one endeavor to another, with little time to just sit down and think about things. I decided that this afternoon was a time to be quiet for a couple of hours, before the next scheduled event. I must admit that, if I were to shut my eyes for any length, sleep would soon take over.

This weekend the candidates are meeting together. I pray that it will be a time of great blessing and affirming of their individual call to ministry.

Matthew 11:28
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. (Message)

The Good, the Bad , and the Ugly

I enjoy a good movie, with suspense or humor, a good plot, and good acting. The Notebook is one movie that I really enjoyed.

I also enjoy very bad B grade movies, however the reasons for enjoyment may very, from movie to movie. I was just reminded of this as the TV is on, and I believe that a guy opened a door with a swipe card ~ except that the door opened just prior to the card being swiped. Some of the best gaffs are soooo hilarious. Also counting the times that the sound boom comes into shot.

It is however, a reminder that all aspects of our lives need to be aligned.

Matthew 6:16
"When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don't make a production out of it. It might turn you into a small-time celebrity but it won't make you a saint. (Message)

Opportunities

There are opportunities unfolding that could take the ministry of the Corps to new levels within our community. Agencies, with a wide variety of community work, have approached the Corps to be a partner in aspects of the work they do. This could give opportunities to reach a wide variety of people, on different levels, with a ‘one on one’ personal contact being central to what we do.

Ephes. 4:16 (Message) He keeps us in step with each other. His very breath and blood flow through us, nourishing us so that we will grow up healthy in God, robust in love.

By Faith

By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. (Heb. 11:17-19. NIV)

By faith! What an amazing challenge! To live our lives with the same foundational faith, that sustained life of the patriarch Abraham.

The fundamentals of this type of faith may seem easy.
a. Hear the word of the Lord.
b. Understand your part.
c. Fulfill your responsibility.
However, uncertainty in any area will not allow, the required trust to develop or flourish. Possibly the most difficult area, is hearing the word of the Lord, through the distracting noise of the world.

Lord, help us to be quiet, so we can hear what you are saying. Amen.

YOUTH

Wow, what a great week!!!!

The Quarters was filled to the brim, with a team of 5 youth and plus a leader from Melbourne to run the School Holiday Programme. An extra 6 in the house, was nice and cosy, if not loud. It is Saturday afternoon, and the house is quiet, just the two old Majors left.

It feels a little like a recuperation day, as I averaged 5 hours sleep per night. I think that is just a little short of what is best for me to be at peek condition.

What a privilege to see young people grow in confidence, as they are involved in ministry, expressing their love of the Lord with energy and enthusiasm. Each day their confidence was impacting the children, and relating to them the wonderful love of the Lord.

It was also good for Daisy to share her sacrificial life, (the youth will understand this) which is continuing today.

2 Thes. 1:3 (Message) You need to know, friends, that thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it's a must. We have to do it. Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each other is developing wonderfully. Why, it's only right that we give thanks.

DAY 5

The eagle has landed.

The conclusion day was filled with mixed emotions, from the children, leaders, and parents.
It has been such a good week for the children, that they did not want it to stop.
Leaders and children formed some great relationships, which is real Kingdom stuff.

A possibility for the future, is that our Kids Klub could double in size.

We appreciate the young leaders who have stretched their missional wings, and had a ball at the same time. We trust that the experience will be of benefit to them, and the Kingdom, in their home Corps.

Well after the clean up, now back at the quarters, it is sooooooooooo quiet.

Hebrews 10:24-25 Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching. (Message)

DAY 4

Another great day at the Holiday Programme. Although there were a few who were a little late arriving.
Some of the Leaders were a little lethargic at the start of the day. Could have been, because of the Youth Ten Pin Bowling, or the McD's after, or the Movie ~ Sister Act 2 which followed, or the excitement of hi jinks, or the egg timer that went off in some one's room.

There were responses to a call to be Jesus friend. This was a great day, the leaders prayed for each child, after the hall had emptied.

Romans 1:16 It's news I'm most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God's powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! (Message)

DAY 3

Another exciting day at the Holiday Programme.

Music, Craft, Singing, Story, Games, and an outing at a fun Shed.

There were some 3rd day blues, a few tears, however it was still all go with enthusiasm, and energy. After a big day, the tired bodies went home to energise for tomorrow. Also today there was an extra person added into the programme.

Prayers arrived from DHQ Staff for each of the Leaders, which were much appreciated.


2 Cor. 5:7 It's what we trust in but don't yet see that keeps us going. (Message)

DAY 2

Children's Holiday Programme. Today was a little quieter than yesterday, as the children viewed a movie. Everyone from yesterday returned, and parents noted the excitement of their child. Most slept around 10 hours, and some were ready to go at 6:30am. We also had three extra children join the festivities. The activities, songs, games, etc. were all entered into with enthusiasm.

Acts 4:12 Salvation comes no other way; no other name has been or will be given to us by which we can be saved, only this one." (Message)

DAY 1

Blast Off!!

Excited children, energetic young people, craft stuff, solid beat music = fun & laughter.

One report was of a child going to sleep in the car on the way home.
One parent was sorry that she was could not stay, as it looked so very interesting, and lots of fun.

Psalm 18:46 Live, God! Blessings from my Rock, my free and freeing God, towering! (Message)

Prepared

The young people arrived from Melbourne, in time for the monthly Corps Prayer Tea. Following a snack, we shared in meaningful time of prayer.

Tomorrow, the Children’s Holiday Programme will be launched. The Hall is decorated, and set up ready to go. Now we just need the children. 19 have booked in, so we are hoping that they will all front up tomorrow.

The teaching will focus on Peter, with tomorrow’s launch, reflecting on Peter’s call and his launch into ministry as Jesus friend.

Passing along the beach of Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew net-fishing. Fishing was their regular work. Jesus said to them, "Come with me. I'll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I'll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass." They didn't ask questions. They dropped their nets and followed. (Mark 1: 16-18 Message)