tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24550622952912524272024-03-05T19:03:17.523+02:00Keeping Up ... with the JonesesSteven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.comBlogger473125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-75715078081765346642013-10-04T10:32:00.002+02:002013-10-04T10:32:36.454+02:00Comment moderation enabledSome spammers have been posting rubbish in the "comments" section of this blog, so I've unfortunately had to take the step of enabling comment moderation.<br />
<br />
If you post a comment and it doesn't appear for a couple of days, it doesn't mean it didn't go through - it just means I'm a bit busy.<br />
<br />
Sorry to have to do this, but it's the only way I can keep the junk out.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-56159470383473668912013-06-22T11:13:00.000+02:002013-06-22T11:13:28.928+02:00Methodists, mission, and moneyA colleague once said to me that if one is to embark on PhD studies and see them through to completion, the subject matter must be something that keeps one awake at night. In other words, to use one's research to, if not solve what the academics term "the problem statement", at least shed some light on the issue, open further conversations, and inspire others to take the next step.<br />
<br />
Part of the "blessing in disguise" that came from my abortive attempt to register for PhD studies with UKZN towards the end of 2011 (other than being able to cope with the EMMU assignments!) has been to think about what was bothering me at the time in terms of an area of research, but - more importantly - to discover what <u>really</u> scratches away at me.<br />
<br />
And now that I'm approaching my ordination year, I believe that the time is right to set the ball rolling.<br />
<br />
Something that's been troubling me for some time has been our model of ministry (insofar as stationing ministers is concerned), in that the basis of a "viable" station is whether or not the local community (Circuit) can support a minister financially. If the answer is "yes", then a minister is stationed - if "no", then the stationing doesn't happen.<br />
<br />
The sad part of such an approach is that the communities that can least afford a minister are probably the ones that need a minister most. I'm reminded of the words of John Wesley, as recorded in the Minutes of the Methodist Conference dated 29 June 1744, where he said that "[y]ou have nothing to do but to save souls. Therefore spend and be spent in this work. And go always, not only to those who want you, <u>but to those who want you most</u>" (my emphasis; the context also indicates that the modern English equivalent of "want" would be "need").<br />
<br />
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) has partially grasped this vision through the construction of a state-of-the-art seminary, aimed at training the ministers required for this work. Unfortunately, under our current deployment model, finding stations for those +/- 25 ministers who exit seminary each year is an arduous task - one that we have sought to address by measures such as compulsory retirement at age 65 (i.e. "out with the old to make room for the new").<br />
<br />
Sadly, we say that we are a "Connexional church" and local communities are often severely criticised for being congregational in their thinking. Yet when local communities are in need of support for ministry from the wider MCSA community, there is no formal process by which such support can be obtained. To be fair, there <u>are</u> wealthier churches that <u>do</u> provide a degree of support, but this tends to be in an unstructured and fairly localised manner.<br />
<br />
And the number of local churches that close their doors (mainly in rural communities) bears sad testimony to this.<br />
<br />
This got me thinking: Leaving aside financial considerations for the moment, what would be the "optimum" method of stationing ministers? In other words, how would we station minsters according to Wesley's imperative to "go always ... to those who [need] you most"?<br />
<br />
We keep saying that we need a new paradigm of mission today, and part of that must surely be to be in a position to station ministers where they are most needed? My proposed area of research is therefore to re-examine the missiology of the MCSA in terms of how it deploys its ministers, attempting to put together a model that primarily takes mission needs into account.<br />
<br />
Now the bean-counters must be choking on their corn flakes as they read this - after all, even though, according to John 15: 19, we are not <u>of</u> this world, we are <u>in</u> this world, and it's all well and good having these grandiose plans for mission, but these need to be paid for! That's where the financial management part of the research comes in - how a more optimal model of mission through the deployment of ministers can be financed.<br />
<br />
The issue we face as a 21st century church is that our mission has been dictated to by money, but finance needs to follow (and support) mission, not the other way around. The accounts of the early church confirm this, as do countless missionary enterprises over the years. However, in all the books I've read on the early Southern African missions, much has been said on the mission work itself, but any detail on how such missionaries have been supported financially has been given scant attention. My contention is that the financial support must have been there, whether from a missionary society, or a "home" church. I can't believe that the likes of William Shaw would have been sent off to our sunny shores to spread the Gospel and establish a string of mission stations without at least <u>some</u> measure of initial financial support.<br />
<br />
It was these early missionary enterprises that laid the foundation for the church's witness in the 19th century. The 20th century church owes a great deal of gratitude to these pioneers. Surely we need to not only learn from our history but also adapt our model to current circumstances to ensure that this witness continues in the 21st century and beyond?<br />
<br />
The first step is to convince a university that such a research proposal has merit for a PhD. The next step would be for the MCSA to sanction the project. Prayers would therefore be greatly welcomed!Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-85107789337010340212013-05-08T22:56:00.000+02:002013-05-08T22:56:09.798+02:00Light at the end of the tunnel?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5T7sGDK8Uc6wGj-jdLX8BxfI9AQ6Ysj-apNubR0C2dj4WJuPUOEVBdxpRJRKueCjWHxM6zrHu1JZk2nXsn6hPO8daZrNj3q3x4bBzgEZL98IPEGVCm46fc7Kq62ttMfDF4OeP7RXyr4k/s1600/Light+at+the+end+of+the+tunnel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5T7sGDK8Uc6wGj-jdLX8BxfI9AQ6Ysj-apNubR0C2dj4WJuPUOEVBdxpRJRKueCjWHxM6zrHu1JZk2nXsn6hPO8daZrNj3q3x4bBzgEZL98IPEGVCm46fc7Kq62ttMfDF4OeP7RXyr4k/s320/Light+at+the+end+of+the+tunnel.jpg" width="320" /></a>Being someone who has not generally been known for being at a loss for words, to not blogging at all for a year, some readers of this post may be wondering what's happened. Did I drop off the face of the earth or something?<br />
<br />
One post could not even begin to cover what has been an unbelievably eventful twelve months. Some of these events have built character. Others have caused me to plumb the depths of despair. I haven't gone off the rails, or anything like that - I haven't got divorced, bought a Harley-Davidson, or joined the French Foreign Legion. I still love Jesus. I'm still in the ministry. My lovely wife Belinda and our amazing son James still love me (I hope!).<br />
<br />
But the events of the last five years - and particularly the last 12 months - have finally caught up with me. A change of career, followed by four moves, three gruelling semesters at seminary, two deaths (one being my friend and mentor, <a href="http://rockinthegrass.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-death-of-friend.html" target="_blank">Ross Olivier</a>; the other being my father), one house sale, mother moving to a retirement village, mom-in-law developing dementia, being sent to an insolvent Circuit - all while still tying to find my feet in this crazy new vocation called ministry. The result has been a bout of what can only be termed as depression.<br />
<br />
It hasn't been a debilitating type of depression that renders one non-functional. By God's grace I'm still managing to get out of bed. I do my ministry duties - preaching, visiting, LOTS of admin. I'm still involved with Scouts, even though my current station in Dalton means a 100km round trip to attend meetings. I've also (only by the grace of God) identified that there's a problem before getting anything close to the stage where Ross was - to see this great man of God being chopped down and ultimately taken from us by depression was a massive shock; the thought of going down the same slippery slope scared the living daylights out of me.<br />
<br />
But what made me come to the conclusion that I may be depressed? Being the analytical person that I am, I did some research, and according to the website of the <a href="http://www.sadag.org/" target="_blank">South African Depression and Anxiety Support Group</a>, the following are some of the signs and symptoms that one could be experiencing depression:<br />
<ol>
<li>
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.</li>
<li> Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.</li>
<li>Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism.</li>
<li>Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness and self reproach.</li>
<li>Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping.</li>
<li>Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain.</li>
<li>Decreased energy, fatigue and feeling run down.</li>
<li>Increased use of alcohol and drugs; may be associated but not a criteria for diagnosis.</li>
<li>Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts.</li>
<li>Restlessness, irritability, hostility.</li>
<li>Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions.</li>
<li>Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.</li>
<li>Deterioration of social relationships.
</li>
</ol>
Looking at this list of symptoms, I was able to identify numbers 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 to some degree in myself.<br />
<br />
One of the signs of depression is a loss of interest in things once enjoyed. Writing was a passion of mine, but I've been unable to bring myself to write anything (other than things I've had to do, such as sermon prep, assignments, and the like) for the past year. The same has gone for reading (I've always been a voracious reader). Having said that, the fact that I am writing this is perhaps a sign that I've turned the corner?<br />
<br />
In the same way that one seeks medical attention when experiencing physical symptoms, I have sought the help of a professional in dealing with the issues that I've been facing. With that support, as well as the support of family, friends, and colleagues, I'm beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
<br />
Through all of this, God has been so merciful. Looking at Scriptures, I was surprised (yet relieved) to find that there were a number of Bible "heroes" who went through similar depths of despair at times - David, Job, Isaiah, Paul, and even Jesus himself (to name but a few). It is the knowledge that Jesus in particular had such moments - the garden of Gethsemane, and his feeling of desolation on the cross come to mind - that give me the comfort that I am not alone in this.<br />
<br />
Over the next few weeks I'll be exploring some of the things that put me in this state, using the medium of writing to help me process each event as a means of healing. It is my hope and prayer that by being open about this, I can somehow help others find healing as well. If that can happen, I'll be able to see God's purpose in all of this.<br />
<br />
Irrespective, God remains faithful.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-32242997098148765232012-05-23T09:36:00.000+02:002012-05-23T09:36:44.906+02:00Putting the whole Zuma "Spear" art saga into perspective..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg81yhQDAyt4CcL0Zmmm1UWNfl0ecwycnubf4bifYljnipDmlQlTR-RP0QFNwiGlr7FoatRbenllD97jKEZen4UINwX78ITFZ4MPETPxsRhWkZsYIA0U-tbA-45ghTpMdwGnty3WmN3FOY/s1600/JZ+art+saga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg81yhQDAyt4CcL0Zmmm1UWNfl0ecwycnubf4bifYljnipDmlQlTR-RP0QFNwiGlr7FoatRbenllD97jKEZen4UINwX78ITFZ4MPETPxsRhWkZsYIA0U-tbA-45ghTpMdwGnty3WmN3FOY/s1600/JZ+art+saga.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">41</span>“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">42</span>For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, <span style="font-size: xx-small;">43</span>I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">44</span>“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">45</span>“He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Matthew 25: 41-45
(Today's New International Version)</div>Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-34407546404380810732012-03-04T11:38:00.000+02:002012-03-04T11:38:40.715+02:00Preaching "from the heart"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCQHqcl7x1N1bh7oCF4ZX7tVVHucQhMG5nUxrruivoEZtMLT4aibzSuWsDQU1qakuswKyUH-ZMuv5jxaPwC0vdyarTNHsQkw7AUGOVZcRVa6DQuFRxFrSdYj1xmMV9KnG4xmHnv0olz8/s1600/From+the+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: left; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 160px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 179px;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCQHqcl7x1N1bh7oCF4ZX7tVVHucQhMG5nUxrruivoEZtMLT4aibzSuWsDQU1qakuswKyUH-ZMuv5jxaPwC0vdyarTNHsQkw7AUGOVZcRVa6DQuFRxFrSdYj1xmMV9KnG4xmHnv0olz8/s200/From+the+heart.jpg" uda="true" width="200" /></a></div>
The last couple of weeks I've been doing a preaching series around the Lenten journey, based on John van de Laar's excellent resource, Living in the Promised Land. (This book can be purchased in e-book form from John's website, <a href="http://www.sacredise.com/">http://www.sacredise.com/</a>). It has been a time of blessing and challenge both for me and for our congregation at Camperdown.<br />
<br />
However, I was challenged this morning by one of our Local Preachers, who came to me this morning and commended me for "preaching from the heart". She noted that one can "immediately tell the difference" when I am preaching from the heart; the implication is that I've been guilty of simply "following the series" on occasion.<br />
<br />
This hit me with a bit of a jolt, but also highlights the danger of being too "formulaic" with one's preaching. Sermon series (especially those following the lectionary) are good disciplines and can challenge one to explore passages of Scripture that one may otherwise be inclined to want to avoid, but one should never substitute process for passion. And in hindsight, what with the Annual General Meeting and other meetings the previous week, I arrived at church feeling tired, stressed, and pressurised - and ended up simply going through the motions.<br />
<br />
Not good.<br />
<br />
Today's message was around taking up one's cross and following Jesus. Invariably, whenever I prech, I preach to myself as much as to my congregation. This morning's message was one that I really need to take on board, especially in times of great pressure. I need to give of my best - God expects this, and my congregation deserves it.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-62507543618109031162012-02-16T08:45:00.000+02:002012-02-16T08:45:02.952+02:00Okay ... here comes the lame excuse for not blogging for some time ...There have been times in the past when I have not been able to blog for some time, but this hiatus has been the longest one since the inception of the blog.<br />
<br />
"So what is the lame excuse this time?" you may ask. Well, lots has happened - we've finished up at the seminary, moved house, and taken up a post as the minister of the Camperdown Methodist Church. Camperdown is a piece of heaven nestled in the picturesque Valley of 1000 Hills, about 25km south-east of Pietermaritzburg. I always tease my colleagues that while they preach about heaven, I actually live there! This may be an exaggeration of sorts, but this really is a gorgeous place to live in - the views are simply stunning.<br />
<br />
As for the church itself, our congregation comprises about 55-60 regular worshippers on a Sunday, spread over two services. The morning service (09h00) is a mixture of contemporary and traditional, while the evening service (17h30) is somewhat unstructured, with time spent in prayer, worship, reflection, and sharing.<br />
<br />
Ministry on Circuit has its challenges, of course - while there is much that seminary has taught me, there is also much that seminary <u>didn't</u> teach me - like how to mend leaking toilets in the manse, drive on roads that will provide good preparation for the Dakar Rally, harvest butternut and various other vegetables, repair computers, and be a human resources specialist. Yet there are also many joys - the warm welcome received from the people, the incredible goodwill from the leaders, the sense of being part of people's growth in Christ - in essence, the feeling of well-being that comes from knowing that I can finally do what God has called me to do. Certainly I'll need to draw on this joy in the months ahead; our Society and Circuit does indeed have many challenge.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, James has started his high school career at that most venerable of institutions, Maritzburg College. Ranked in the "Top 5" of schools in South Africa, it is steeed in tradition and has a proud sporting and academic heritage. It was the academic record that attracted us - last year the school has a 100% matric pass rate, with 91% of those being university entrance passes. And I'm glad to say that James has taken to College like a duck to water - he is thoroughly enjoying the experience.<br />
<br />
As for the lame excuse for not blogging for a while? I've been working on getting our church website up and running, which includes some basic information about the church, links to resopurces, my weekly sermons, and a daily reflection based on a one-year Bible reading plan. Why not pop over to <a href="http://www.campermethchurch-za.blogspot.com/">www.campermethchurch-za.blogspot.com</a> and have a squizz?Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-2241124707544794062011-12-09T08:33:00.001+02:002011-12-09T08:38:23.066+02:00The Summer DayI'm not a big one for poetry, but this one blew me away - not only for the observations that it makes and the questions that are asked, but also for the implicit searching for the one God who makes it all possible, giving life meaning and purpose... <br />
<br />
<b>The Summer Day (Mary Oliver)</b><br />
Who made the world?<br />
Who made the swan, and the black bear?<br />
Who made the grasshopper?<br />
This grasshopper I mean—<br />
the one who has flung herself out of the grass,<br />
the one who is eating sugar out of my hand,<br />
who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down—<br />
Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.<br />
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.<br />
I don’t know exactly what a prayer is.<br />
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down<br />
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,<br />
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,<br />
which is what I have been doing all day.<br />
Tell me, what else should I have done?<br />
Doesn’t everything die at last, and too soon?<br />
Tell me, what is it you plan to do<br />
with your one wild and precious life?Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-91074585163232415212011-12-03T08:00:00.000+02:002011-12-03T08:00:05.146+02:00"Sacramental sex"?Jenny has recently written a <a href="http://carpenters-shoes.blogspot.com/2011/11/church-and-sexual-immorality.html" target="_blank">post</a> on her blog in which she expresses concerns about modern (or should that be post-modern?) society's apparent slide into sexual immorality. I can emphathise with Jenny, what with her being a mother of four children - my own son James, who turns 14 next May, is at the age where a number of youngsters' hormones begin to go into overdrive. I once said (in a sermon, <i>nogal</i>) that males have two heads - one attached to their shoulders by way of the neck, and the other attached to their loins by way of the penis - and that it is (in my admittedly unscientific opinion) impossible for blood to flow to both at the same time!<br />
<br />
I would also imagine that any Christian parent would also identify with the following concerns expressed by Jenny:<br />
<br />
<i>I don't want to live in a society where sexual experience for teenagers
outside of a committed long term relationship is normal. I don't want to
live in a society where the family is no longer a fundamental unit. I
am afraid that our 'higher values' are being determined by our selfish
desires rather than a desire for the common good. We are being extremely
short-sighted.</i><br />
<br />
Yet somehow as a Church (and as Christians in general), we don't seem to have a handle on understanding our sexuality. And when it comes to sin, it seems that we regard sexual sin as being the most heinous of all - certainly, the most severely punished, especially comes to a woman falling pregnant outside of wedlock (the whole gender inequality issues around this are the subject of a separate post, at least for now...).<br />
<br />
As a result, we've tended to attempt to regulate sexual behaviour through a series of rules and regulations. Yet wherever there are rules, our human nature is to try and find loopholes. For example, in response to a prohibition on sex outside of marriage, those who do not simply ignore this find themselves asking questions such as "how far can one go before what they are doing is regarded as 'sex'?"<br />
<br />
Yet at the same time, it's easy for me to be smug about this. I was married at 22. Most youngsters nowadays are not likely to get married at such a young age. In the meantime, James has for the past four years (at least) had a pretty fair idea of what happens behind the closed door when Mom and Dad go to bed. Add into the mix the continual commoditisation of sex in our society today (even amongst Christians), and clearly the "rules and regulations" approach is going to get the Church absolutely nowhere.<br />
<br />
So I was pleased to find a somewhat refreshingly different approach to understanding sexuality in a Christian context - that of being akin to a sacrament. In a sermon entitled "How Sinful Is Sex" (based on Song of Solomon 3: 1-5 and I Corinthians 7: 1-9), the writer (United Methodist Church minister Mark Schaefer) traces how Christians' generally unhealthy attitude towards sexuality has developed down the centuries (to read the whole sermon, click <a href="http://www.aumethodists.org/worship/sermons/2011-fall/how-sinful-is-sex/" target="_blank">here</a>).<br />
<br />
How, then, does one begin to change these negative attitudes, while at the same time not wanting to be seen to be advocating an "anything goes" approach? I believe that the "sacramental" approach has merit. As Schaefer states:<br />
<br />
<i>A sacrament, after all, is a visible sign of an invisible grace. It
is a material means through which we experience the love and grace of
God. In our theology, we proclaim that God’s grace is known to us
through the free gift of the waters of baptism, and in the free gift of
the meal shared in the communion. Through these ordinary, physical,
material things, God’s grace is conveyed to us.</i><br />
<br />
<i>By that reasoning, a
meal over beer and pizza with an old friend in which relationship is
maintained and grace shared, could be seen as sacramental. A game of
catch with a child, can be a sacrament. Probably not the kind we’ll see
in church, but nevertheless sacramental. Sex can be a sacrament. Again, probably not the kind we’ll be having in church.</i><br />
<br />
As Belinda and I approach 20 years of marriage, I can honestly say that I have experienced the love and grace of God through Belinda. I cannot think of any earthly relationship that comes closer to expressing the love that God has with humankind in covenantal relationship. I don't know anyone else who comes closer to laying their life down for me than my wife - just as Jesus selflessly laid his life down for us. And our sexual relationship is the physical expression of the love we share.<br />
<br />
On that basis, for us, our sexuality must surely be sacramental? Shaefer asks similar questions:<br />
<br />
<i>But why cannot sex be thought of as sacramental? It <u>should</u> be thought
of that way. Indeed, do we not speak of the sacraments as mystery? Is
not our sexuality one of the most powerful—and <em>mysterious</em>—elements
of our human existence? And when sex is used the way it is meant to,
does it not convey love and grace? Is not sex about making oneself
vulnerable, open for the sake of the other, with tenderness, love,
caring, and commitment? Does healthy sex not <u>require</u> that? Do we not
see something of God in that vulnerablity, that commitment, that love?</i><br />
<br />
<i>Imagine if we saw sex not as something dirty, something taboo,
something sinful and forbidden, but as something sacramental? How would
that change our perceptions? How would we treat sex if we saw it as
sacramental?</i><br />
<i>
</i><br />
He goes on to add:<br />
<br />
<i>I am reminded of the reverence that Catholics have for the
Eucharist. They don’t drop crumbs on the floor, they don’t pour the
leftover wine down the drain. There is an air of reverence for the very
thing through which they encounter the grace of Christ. We don’t have
quite the same practices of piety, but we are not without reverence for
the sacrament. Would we baptize with water we’d gotten out of a muddy
puddle outside? Would we seek to offer baptism to someone with whom we
had no relationship? Would someone seek to be baptized who didn’t know
the congregation or who had no intention of making a commitment in
faith? Would we serve communion using stale bread and spoiled juice?
Would we carelessly throw the bread on the floor or gargle with the
juice? No, of course we wouldn’t because we know that that behavior
would not respect what that sacrament means for us.</i><br />
<br />
<i>
</i><i>And so it should be with our sexuality. We should treat our
sexuality with the same reverence, the same respect, the same dignity,
the same awe as we would any other sacrament. As we would any other
means through which we encountered the love and grace of God. We would
more fully understand the meaning of the verse from the Song of Solomon
that says, “Do not stir up or awaken love until it is ready.”</i><br />
<br />
If we can begin to understand our sexuality in this manner, then we might begin to understand a sexual ethic that is pleasing to God without constantly having to enforce our bad dogma by beating people with a big stigma!<br />Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-25491631653295556752011-12-02T08:00:00.000+02:002011-12-02T08:00:03.617+02:00Ways to be more energy-efficientDid you know that a kilowatt-hour is equal to an entire hour's worth of consumed kilowatts? Or that one kilowatt-hour is more or less equal to 1 kilogram of greenhouse gas? Why is it so important to know such things? You might not know it, but not only are you burning the green of the outdoors, but you're also burning the money in your wallets!
Even the tiniest details matter. For example, at this very moment you might not know it, but you have a little culprit munching away on your electricity and causing your electric bill to continually surge skyward. So how can you save Mother Nature and yourself? Here are a few tips to help you become more energy efficient, and cut back on your electric billing.<br />
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1. Unplug everything! Most appliances have a little LED light blinking, even when they're on sleep or standby mode. This means that these devices are still consuming energy - even when you're not using them. You can solve this problem by plugging your devices into cords which have an on and off switch. That way, with just a flick of a switch, you're reducing usage!<br />
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2. Say goodbye to old light bulbs. Replace your old incandescent bulb with a newer fluorescent bulb. These fluorescent bulbs use only half the amount of energy needed to produce the same amount of light from an incandescent bulb. This means that a 100-watt incandescent bulb can be replaced with a 26-watt fluorescent bulb. You will need to invest a little more but you're cutting operating costs significantly!<br />
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3. Add a fan! An electric fan will help air move around to create a cooler atmosphere. This effect will reduce the air temperature by about 4 degrees Fahrenheit (or 2 degrees Celsius), therefore lessening your air conditioner use.<br />
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4. Filter your filters. If you simply cannot live without the air conditioning unit being on, remember to clean your filters. This will enable your unit to cool faster and work on lesser hours.<br />
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5. Incorporate window shading. Install new covers, awnings and additional screens to shelter you from the sun.<br />
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6. Use energy-efficient appliances. If your appliance is still from the 90's, change it! This will be a big investment but it will be well worth it. Most old devices account for your expenses. Remember to look for the Energy Star label on your new appliance, as this will ensure a more energy-efficient machine.<br />
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7. Enjoy the outdoors! Don't just sit at home enjoying your air conditioning system in the summer, or the heating system in the winter. Learn to explore the outdoors. You might even lose a few kilos. But more importantly, you're actually evading electrical use!
So start paying attention to small details around your house, and you will be able to lessen your expenses! Each person has a unique ability to cope with being energy efficient, but this small start will surely help you become more creative in your journey to killing your kilowatts and becoming more energy efficient.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">
Author - Laurel R. Lindsay - Learn more about Residential Electrical Topics: Residential Electrician - Learn more from Calgary's best Electrician: Calgary Electrician - Article Source: <a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Laurel_R._Lindsay">http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laurel_R._Lindsay</a></span>Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-1239245722109236272011-12-01T15:57:00.001+02:002011-12-01T16:01:33.080+02:001 December 2011: World AIDS Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-61370144623992086242011-11-27T16:48:00.001+02:002011-11-27T16:51:52.572+02:0021st century communicationsWith people in the 21st century being accustomed to communicating through ariety of platforms, I've started off by bashing together the bare bones of a website for Camperdown Methodist Church, where I will be stationed from 2012.<br />
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It's a bit raw and rough, but pop over and have a gander and let me know what you think. [Click <a href="http://campermethchurch-za.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>]Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-89677886847152901062011-11-15T08:45:00.001+02:002011-11-15T10:39:07.728+02:00Boxes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVsmC8eyLnlzmz5hyTfB2Tk46M3WxdAQ5Ig9NKWeCNkTDQ6GpD93IK9y9-CXpAumnPa9GWUc2uCn7ZQ-paTaKLBxDyvrVodb2w7olBaiowgq11by5vFPOpl7qzZpT7qUZUxLpJUjoC7o/s1600/Boxes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVsmC8eyLnlzmz5hyTfB2Tk46M3WxdAQ5Ig9NKWeCNkTDQ6GpD93IK9y9-CXpAumnPa9GWUc2uCn7ZQ-paTaKLBxDyvrVodb2w7olBaiowgq11by5vFPOpl7qzZpT7qUZUxLpJUjoC7o/s320/Boxes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>Woke up this morning</i><br />
<i>Closed in on all sides, nothing doing</i><br />
<i>I feel resistance as I open my eyes</i><br />
<i>Someone's fooling</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>I found a way to break through</i><br />
<i>This cellophane line</i><br />
<i>'Cos I know what's going on</i><br />
<i>In my own mind</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Am I living in a box?</i><br />
<i>Am I living in a cardboard box?</i><br />
<br />
The worst part of relocating is the packing and unpacking. This lot in the picture is just my books. Eish...!Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-55230148904831823562011-10-27T22:08:00.000+02:002011-10-27T22:08:35.860+02:00Stationed!Things have been extremely hectic as my time at the Seminary winds down (and to think I thought life would be a bit calmer once I had completed the BTh phase - eish!), and I find myself making the usual lame excuses for not posting on my blog as regularly as I would like.
However, a number of my on-line friends have been asking me what's happening with my stationing for 2012, and now that Conference has come and gone, the embargo has been lifted and I am now free to disclose where I am being sent next year.<br />
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God and the Methodist Church have been gracious to post me at Camperdown, which is a smallish town (village?) about 20km south-east of Pietermaritzburg. The location is convenient from the point of view of accessibility to James' school next year, as well as UKZN (although the whole PhD application process has <u>not</u> gone well - more about that in a later post), yet is still far enough away from Pietermaritzburg to give one a sense of being "out in the country".<br />
<br />
I have had the privilege of worshipping with the community on a couple of occasions, and thus far my reception has been most welcoming.<br />
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There are, of course, some challenges - the main one being that the Circuit's financial position is rather tight at the moment, which means that (initially at least) I will not be receiving a full stipend. My ministry will be of a "tent-making" nature until such time as the Circuit is able to fully support me financially. Yet at the same time I sense a great opportunity, not only to lift my own trust in God to a new level, but also to be an example to people who are also trusting God to do something new and exciting in this church community.<br />
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Some have questioned my decision, though, and I suppose that it is understandable in a way. Yet I am at peace with the arrangements in place. After all, how can I with a clear conscience call upon people to put their faith in God by reaching a little deeper into their pockets if I am not willing to do the same? If we are truly to be imitators of Christ, then we need to follow His example. And Jesus' example is this: At no point during His earthly ministry does He call upon anyone to do anything that He has not done first.<br />
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As ministers of the Gospel, we would do well to emulate our Lord - after all, it is a known fact that people listen to our sermons with their eyes. They want to see that this stuff we preach is real. And so I relish the challenge that lies in the months ahead ... putting the Seminary learnings into practice, and praying fervently that I don't mess up <u>too</u> badly!Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-39245224265210551372011-09-30T05:12:00.000+02:002011-09-30T05:12:41.733+02:00Drinking and drivingI got this on an e-mail from a friend in the US. Although I cannot speak from experience (that pineapple beer in Std 8 aside), I thought that it was priceless nonetheless.<br />
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<i>I would just like to share an experience with you all, and it has to do with drinking and driving. As you know some of us have had brushes with the authorities on our way home from the odd soiree over the years.<br />
<br />
Well, I for one have done something about it: Last night I was out for a few drinks with some mates and had way too many of the good old bubbly. Knowing full well I was wasted, I did something I've never done before. I took a bus home.<br />
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I arrived home safely and without incident which was a real surprise, since I had never driven a bus before............</i>Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-81593132399282055922011-09-11T18:26:00.000+02:002011-09-11T18:26:10.970+02:00I'm getting old!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-4NBRMlPn6nKYBtGjv0JVv4tXBq5dGub3un4G3KTovcTwiAiOuTR0vh3QJB1CW3bSrw8V5S08CasG_4mSYg95wOxVpPciUNK-Tmyaf7eq0uZBTky-xgvYCp6CG8tksiwcGQYkchE2aM/s1600/James+pulling+car+out+of+garage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-4NBRMlPn6nKYBtGjv0JVv4tXBq5dGub3un4G3KTovcTwiAiOuTR0vh3QJB1CW3bSrw8V5S08CasG_4mSYg95wOxVpPciUNK-Tmyaf7eq0uZBTky-xgvYCp6CG8tksiwcGQYkchE2aM/s320/James+pulling+car+out+of+garage.jpg" width="320" /></a>Here is a pic of James pulling Belinda's car out of the garage. Seems just the other day when I held this tiny baby in my arms...Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-24936004410496798812011-09-08T08:00:00.003+02:002011-09-08T08:00:01.443+02:00Scriptural reflections on prison ministry (5)<u>Passage: Jeremiah 29: 11-13</u><br />
" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.' "<br />
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<u>How does this passage relate to prison ministry?</u><br />
It is interesting to note Verse 11a, “[f]or I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD …”, since a visiting pastor to the prison, who presented a course on anger management, made the statement that “none of us are here by accident … to be in this particular place at this particular time, participating in this particular session, is God-ordained”. It can certainly be validly argued that, for the prisoners who attended the anger management session, if they took on board the insights imparted, and turned them into lessons to be learned and applied to their own lives, this could certainly be seen as “[a plan] to prosper you and not to harm you; [a plan] to give you hope and a future” (Verse 11b).<br />
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It was readily acknowledged that uncontrolled anger was undoubtedly a contributing factor to many of the prisoners committing the crimes that they did, resulting in their incarceration, and being empowered to deal with such anger would give them hope for the future since the likelihood of this anger driving them to re-offend would be greatly diminished.<br />
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<u>What relevance does this passage have for ministry?</u><br />
The passage has particular relevance for ministry, since the message that it contains is one of hope. A problem that many people face as they journey through life is the apparent lack of meaning of it all, a sense that one drifts through life going through the same daily routines for 70 or so years, after which life ends. The fact that God has a plan for our lives gives us hope and direction, and a sense that our time here on earth is not futile but has purpose.<br />
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A primary aspect of ministry is to proclaim this message of hope; to help people to understand that their lives do have meaning and purpose. God hasn’t just “lit the wick” and then allowed the candles of our lives to burn on their own until, eventually, it burns itself out. Our job as ministers is to accompany our congregations on a journey to discover God’s plan and purpose for our lives.<br />
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<u>How does this passage define serving for Christ?</u><br />
Jesus’ earthly life and ministry was no mere accident of history – he was sent by God with a specific mission, anointed by the Holy Spirit, and its express purpose was to “preach good news to the poor, … proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, [and] to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor (sic)” (Luke 4: 18b-19, NIV). He then set about fulfilling his purpose. Towards the end of his earthly ministry, after he had risen from the dead and was about to ascend into heaven, he gave a mission and purpose for their ministry, being to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28: 19-20a, NIV).<br />
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What this teaches us about serving Christ is that, just as he was sent by God with a purpose, so he has called us with a specific purpose in mind as well. Our obligation as Christians, therefore, is to seek the specific purpose to which Jesus has called us, and carry out that purpose with faithfulness and integrity.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-46441976484393389922011-09-01T08:00:00.003+02:002011-09-01T08:00:09.499+02:00Scriptural reflections on prison ministry (4)<u>Passage: Philippians 3: 12-16 (NIV)</u><br />
"Not that I (Paul) have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."<br />
<br />
<u>How does this passage relate to prison ministry?</u><br />
Referring to the previous verses, whereby Paul claims no accolades from anything he has done in his own strength but gives all glory to Jesus for what he has become, this passage calls upon us to be humble. None of us can claim to be perfect, but we can strive for perfection in Christ. Paul however does not claim to have reached this point yet.<br />
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When it comes to ministering to prisoners, one faces a temptation to become smug in believing that because we may not have committed the kind of acts that has resulted in the prisoners’ incarceration, we are somehow better than them, or at least, “less sinful”. This passage reminds us that none of us can claim to have made it. Irrespective of where we may be on the journey relative to others, we need to be conscious that we are all on a common journey, striving towards the goal that Jesus has set for us. Our attitude should therefore not be as one who has arrived and is therefore pointing the other to the destination, but as one journeying alongside the other in order to reach the destination together.<br />
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<u>What relevance does this passage have for ministry?</u><br />
I was given the nickname “Captain Tupperware” during my Phase One year in 2009 because of a declaration that I made in a sermon one day that a “piece of Tupperware” (referring to my clerical collar) does not make me something special in a “holier than thou” sense. The collar serves merely as a badge of office, in the same manner as the black cap with the “M” embroidered on it identifies the person handing me the cheeseburger and Coke as a McDonald’s employee.<br />
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Staying with this analogy, when one goes to a McDonald’s, it is not the employee wearing the black cap that is of importance – the reason one is there is because of the food and beverage. The person serving, as well as the person being served, both have an equal need to eat and drink. Likewise, in a ministry context, the important aspect is to be able to draw closer to Christ, which both minister and congregation need in equal measure. The members of the congregation are there for the message, with he minister’s role being merely to deliver that message.<br />
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If one were to apply this to prison ministry, we need to remind ourselves, according to Romans 3: 23, that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. The need for love, compassion, and forgiveness is one shared by prisoner and minister alike<br />
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<u>How does this passage define serving for Christ?</u><br />
The main message that comes out of this passage is one of the need for humility. While it is desirable for us to strive towards Christian perfection, this does not give us the right to become arrogant about it. Paul clearly states that he has not yet arrived, and that in fact his spiritual journey up to this point is not because of his own achievements but because of what Christ has done in him.<br />
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This brings a mind a story related to me by a pastor some years back. He was at a preaching engagement out of town, and as he entered the lift lobby of the hotel one evening, a man staggered out of one of the lifts, obviously under the influence of alcohol. The pastor’s first thought was, “How disgusting to be that drunk in public”. He then felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit on his heart, as though he was hearing Jesus say to him, “The only difference between that drunken man and you, is Me”. Convicted of his judgemental attitude, the pastor asked God for forgiveness and began to pray for the man.<br />
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Paul is clear that the only difference between the “old Saul”, who persecuted Christians, and the “new Paul”, who is an apostle for Christ, is Christ Himself. “Pressing on toward the goal to win the prize” therefore reflects a sincere desire to draw ever-closer to Christ. Our motivation should be to do likewise, journeying alongside others as we become one in Jesus.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-23506572881291725222011-08-25T08:00:00.003+02:002011-08-25T08:00:01.279+02:00Scriptural reflections on prison ministry (3)<u>Passage: Colossians 3: 12-14</u><br />
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."<br />
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<u>How does this passage relate to prison ministry?</u><br />
The passage is saying that we have received forgiveness from God, who loves us and has shown “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” to us, and therefore we are called to exhibit the same character traits towards others.<br />
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In the case of prison ministry, this passage is of relevance in that the one thing that is sorely needed by prisoners is forgiveness, both from God (forthcoming) and from others (usually not forthcoming). While the person in prison may well have been convicted of criminal acts, their incarceration is part of the debt that they are repaying to society, and given that the aim of such incarceration is rehabilitation, part of this rehabilitation process is the sense that a prisoner can find forgiveness.<br />
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Part of our role as ministers in prison ministry is threefold: (1) to proclaim the message of God’s forgiveness; (2) to show the characteristics of compassion, kindness, etc. portrayed in Verse 13 when visiting those in prison; and (3) to help those outside prison – particularly those who have been wronged by those in prison – to come to a place where they too can exhibit these characteristics towards those in prison.<br />
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<u>What relevance does this passage have for ministry?</u><br />
Forgiveness is at the very core of the Christian message, starting with God’s outpouring of love by forgiving our every wrongdoing – even though we are undeserving of such love and forgiveness.<br />
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From a heart of forgiveness comes an outpouring of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and it is such characteristics that attract people to hear the Christian message, respond to it, and demonstrate these characteristics to others.<br />
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A minister's primary responsibility is to proclaim this message of forgiveness and compassion, demonstrating it firstly through one's own life and witness. If God is prepared to forgive any and all wrongdoing, as Christians we should surely be prepared to act likewise? While one recognises that such absolute forgiveness is often a difficult and traumatic process – especially when a person has suffered greatly at the hands of another – it is a journey that we need to embark on if we are to obtain release from the bondage of unforgiveness and thereby walk in the fullness of God’s grace.<br />
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<u>How does this passage define serving for Christ?</u><br />
In the same way that the ministry of Jesus is one of reconciliation between God and humankind, we are called to practice the same ministry of reconciliation among ourselves. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we ask God to forgive us as we forgive others. True serving thus comes not only from being able to receive the forgiveness of God, but also from being able to extend that forgiveness to others.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-1168684461531504032011-08-18T08:00:00.002+02:002011-08-18T08:00:02.832+02:00Scriptural reflections on prison ministry (2)<u>Passage: Titus 1: 7-8 (NIV)</u><br />
"Since an overseer manages God’s household, [they] must be blameless — not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, [an overseer] must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined."<br />
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<u>How does this passage relate to prison ministry?</u><br />
People in prison have been fed the message that they are no good, have wronged society, and are deserving of their punishment, and in many ways the Church has been feeding them the same message. Our task as ministers is to show them the correct way, but it is far more important that we live out what we are saying. It is inappropriate for us to come along with a message that is condemnatory, when in many cases we are guilty of the same wrongdoing. The only difference is perhaps that we haven’t been caught!<br />
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I therefore believe that the relevance of this passage to prison ministry is not so much in terms of the criteria that are to be applied to the prisoners, but to us as ministers. We are to attempt, as far as possible, to live up to these requirements, while at the same time be real and genuine in cases where we too fall short. In this way, one can create a sense that both minister and prisoner are on a common journey together, both trying to become more Christ-like.<br />
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<u>What relevance does this passage have for ministry?</u><br />
There is an old saying that congregants listen to our sermons with their eyes, rather than their ears, and this creates a sense that people want to see that what we preach is a reality in our own lives as well. Our role as ministers is to be open, welcoming, and pastoral. We are also supposed to be able to “take a deep breath” and not react emotionally, but to be a source of stability and wise counsel.<br />
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As is the case with ministry within prisons, as ministers in general we need to recognise that we too are on a journey towards becoming more Christ-like – we certainly don’t have all the answers! However, in my limited experience in ministry, people appreciate it when we are willing to be a bit vulnerable in showing that we have not yet arrived, and are thus more willing to take our hands as we share the journey together.<br />
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<u>How does this passage define serving for Christ?</u><br />
This passage emphasises that serving Christ carries a responsibility – one in which the individual needs to be accountable with their own bearing. Serving Christ is born from a response to Christ’s hospitality and steadfastness – qualities which, as imitators of Christ, we need to emulate, especially as leaders in the Church.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-43750913026185761452011-08-13T08:00:00.107+02:002011-08-13T08:00:04.713+02:00McDowell: "The Internet is the greatest threat to Christians"American evangelist and Christian apologist Josh McDowell, author of a number of books including<i> The Islam Debate</i> and <i>Evidence That Demands A Verdict</i>, has been in the news recently for his statement that "the Internet is the greatest threat to Christians". According to <a href="http://www.christianpost.com/news/apologist-josh-mcdowell-internet-the-greatest-threat-to-christians-52382/">this report on website <i>The Christian Post</i></a>, McDowell blames the decline in the number of Christian youth who "believe in the fundamentals of Christianity" and the increase in sexual immorality on the Internet.<br />
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In an address to the International Christian Retail Show at the Colorado Convention Center (sic) last month, McDowell stated that "[t]he Internet has given atheists, agnostics, skeptics, the people who like to destroy everything that you and I believe, the almost equal access to your kids as your youth pastor and you have ... whether you like it or not".<br />
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While not wanting to dismiss McDowell's concern, the indisputable fact is that material on all sorts of things has been available since time immemorial - the only difference is that the Internet makes access to such information a lot easier and faster.<br />
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Dissemination of content has also been made a lot more accessible. Twenty years ago I would have had to convince a newspaper editor that the stuff I write is worthy of publication. And while I do have a tax column that appears in two newspapers each week, most of what I write on this blog either chronicles my ministry journey or provides me with a soap box from which to rant. There may be a book in it someday - after all, Jeremy Clarkson has sold millions of copies of books in which he does little more than write about cars or bitch about life in general - but for the most part, this blog is more of a release valve than anything of profound literary value (although I hope that my theological reflections from time to time are beneficial to some).<br />
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The beauty of the Internet, though, is that I am able to write pieces such as this one, and with relatively little skill am able to publish them for the world to read. It has also revolutionised the way I look for information, whether for academic purposes, theological reflection, obtaining weather forecasts, looking up bus timetables, or solving the mystery of the Duckworth-Lewis method of determining a winner when a cricket match is rained out (well, okay - no-one has understood how that works other than Messrs Duckworth and Lewis themselves, but we keep searching...).<br />
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Internet banking has meant that I have not had to use a chequebook, or walk into a bank branch, for nearly 10 years. Anyone who has stood in the queues of one of the "Big 4" banks will understand what a relief this is! Buying certain items (books in particular) has never been easier, whether ordering locally or from around the globe. Bus trips and flights can be booked by using a few mouse clicks, right from the comfort of my desk. <br />
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But one of the biggest benefits of the Internet has been the way in which it facilitates Christian fellowship. I would have probably never come to know ministry colleagues such as John and Debbie van de Laar, Jenny and Kevin Sprong, Wessel Bentley, Lynita Conradie, Dion Forster, Pete Grassow, Delme Linscott, and many others were it not for blogs, e-mail, and online forums. <br />
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Granted, the Internet can be (and is) misused. I heard somewhere that pornography accounts for the bulk of Web traffic worldwide. And yes, I am concerned that my son can obtain access to such filth. But let's be realistic - if he wants to look at this kind of stuff, he can find it in magazines or on late-night e-tv just as easily. And realistically, there's not much I can do physically to prevent it.<br />
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What I can do as a Christian parent, however, is to teach him values that would obviate the need or desire to look at junk. I can do this through my own example (by avoiding such sites myself). I can also do this by ensuring that communication channels are open. By giving him the straightest possible answers to his questions - theological and otherwise (just as long as he doesn't ask me to explain Duckworth-Lewis). And most of all, by having a relationship with him, spending quality time and having a genuine interest in the things that interest him. By going to his sports games, and by being involved in his Scouts. By ensuring that "Boys' Day" is sacrosanct. And by including him (wherever possible) in my ministry work.<br />
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However, shielding him from "non-Christian" influences, as McDowell seems to suggest, is not the answer. He needs to know what's out there. How else will he be able to judge right from wrong. Now don't get me wrong - I'm not about to allow him to start experimenting with marijuana. But he does need to know what maarijuana is, how it can affect you, and why it is something that should be avoided. Some of these things I can tell him; most of them I can't. I don't know everything - no-one does. But if I have a relationship with him, he can feel free to ask the questions, and together we can try to find the answers.<br />
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So I need to encourage him to explore. And that means using the Internet, books, or any other source of information. But I also need to teach him Christian values, not to shelter him, but to enable him to discern what is good and what isn't. I owe that to him as a father. Anything less is just abdicating my responsibility as a parent.<br />
Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-29661679230711464082011-08-12T06:00:00.000+02:002011-08-12T06:00:46.948+02:00Onward Christian Women - saluting our sisters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAcAXt_imVLZ5DrGg-EWfu1sCyjKkqY-mxYSyaOS1nIQ7LurVxx5iADlm4jrKXBEvj-aEMKtvv0RuR6vcLEIoXpDB2TB5svwZtx-X_mAeijPVo5wiX16wklnvSdggeN8UJsgFMkcIlLM/s1600/A+woman%2527s+place.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAcAXt_imVLZ5DrGg-EWfu1sCyjKkqY-mxYSyaOS1nIQ7LurVxx5iADlm4jrKXBEvj-aEMKtvv0RuR6vcLEIoXpDB2TB5svwZtx-X_mAeijPVo5wiX16wklnvSdggeN8UJsgFMkcIlLM/s400/A+woman%2527s+place.jpeg" width="305" /></a></div>While browsing through Facebook this morning to catch up with what my friends are up to, I came across this great song (to the tune of Onward Christian Soldiers).<br />
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Acknowledgement and thanks to Thandeka Dintlhe for the words. The picture comes from an ad for a US-based Christian women's employment agency.<br />
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<b><i>Onward Christian Women</i><i> </i></b><br />
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<i>Onward Christian Women, God has chosen you.<br />
Much of Christian Service only you can do.<br />
Loyal to your calling throughout many years,<br />
Giving life and comfort, dying human tears.<br />
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<u>Chorus</u><br />
Onwards Christian Women, hear God's call today.<br />
Yours in love to follow, Christ will lead the way.</i><br />
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Any talented person out there up to writing some extra verses?Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-60311961395055477472011-08-11T17:11:00.000+02:002011-08-11T17:11:07.029+02:00Scriptural reflections on prison ministry (1)During this past year we have been involved in prison ministry at SMMS, and one of our tasks each week has been to submit a reflection on a specific passage of Scripture.<br />
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I thought that I would share a few of these reflections on my blog, and I invite comments from readers. I'm particularly interested in any additional thoughts that you may have concerning the passages reflected on - especially if you have a different take on the passage concerned.<br />
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Enjoy, and be challenged!<br />
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<u>Passage: Romans 12: 2 (NIV)</u><br />
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - [God's] good, pleasing and perfect will." <br />
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<u>How does this passage relate to prison ministry?</u><br />
The concept of no longer being “[conformed] … to the pattern of this world”, and being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” resonates with the understanding of the term “correctional services”, where confinement of offenders goes hand-in-hand with rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society, rather than “prison” with is connotation of being a facility focused solely on punishment.<br />
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A question that however comes to mind is this: If the length of sentence is based on the severity of the crime, i.e. more severe crimes carry longer sentences, is one saying that it takes a longer period of time to “renew the mind” of someone (i.e. rehabilitate someone) who has committed more serious crimes than those of a less serious nature; does the length of sentence contain a punitive element; or is it a question of considering the safety of the wider community when passing sentence? Or is it a combination of these three factors?<br />
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<u>What relevance does this passage have for ministry?</u><br />
In the case of prisoners, it is invariably the “conforming … to the pattern of this world” that has ultimately led to the offender turning to criminal activity, with the consequence of their subsequent incarceration. This places a major responsibility on the minister to ensure that comprehensive teaching (with practical application) around (a) identifying inappropriate “patterns of this world”; (b) understanding what it means to offer oneself as “living sacrifices” in service of Christ; and (c) undergoing a process of “renewing of [one’s] mind” as a means to doing God’s will.<br />
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<u>How does this passage define serving for Christ?</u><br />
Referring to the previous question, it would not be enough to teach in congregations on aspects covered in this passage – one need to also live out such practices in one's own Christian walk. This ensures not only personal integrity, but also integrity in one’s teaching.Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-62134503346292257422011-07-29T16:05:00.000+02:002011-07-29T16:05:08.816+02:00Cry Out, Beloved CountryThis was too priceless not to share. Acknowledgements to <a href="http://leadsa.co.za/cry-out-beloved-country/">Lead SA</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSfM5yA3j9qhMkcUOSQqcjzzMe8qSuJS9AIzcmhGBfhMBNa4Bh3VYLNgpX4f4V3PyZzHWHW7vJ1_GCX32gaQpT2YDwGvJafc7Kt9OxjcwpO0ecDdXV9o9FnrVbdHtu0DTvLr1VkHTR5I/s1600/Cry+the+Beloved+Country.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSfM5yA3j9qhMkcUOSQqcjzzMe8qSuJS9AIzcmhGBfhMBNa4Bh3VYLNgpX4f4V3PyZzHWHW7vJ1_GCX32gaQpT2YDwGvJafc7Kt9OxjcwpO0ecDdXV9o9FnrVbdHtu0DTvLr1VkHTR5I/s1600/Cry+the+Beloved+Country.jpg" /></a></div><i><u><b>Cry Out, Beloved Country</b></u> (Stanley King, 2011)</i><br />
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<i>Who am I? I am nobody.</i><br />
<i>What is my name? It doesn’t matter.</i><br />
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<i>I am a voice crying.</i><br />
<i>Crying out in the wilderness of service delivery.</i><br />
<i>Crying out in the barren lands of peaceful protest.</i><br />
<i>Crying out in the desert of safe streets and neighbourhoods.</i><br />
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<i>I am stuck.</i><br />
<i>Stuck in the muck and filth of murder, rape and robbery.</i><br />
<i>I trudge through the swamps of material poverty at the base of the cliff of financial inequality.</i><br />
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<i>I shout.</i><br />
<i>I shout out against the din of bribery and corruption.</i><br />
<i>I shout out against the tumult of idle and careless work.</i><br />
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<i>Why don’t I care for you?</i><br />
<i>I don’t care because you’re not important to me.</i><br />
<i>I don’t care because my needs and wants are all that matter.</i><br />
<i>It’s all about me, not about you.</i><br />
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<i>But I am you.</i><br />
<i>I am you when you are waiting in the queue and you see me go off for lunch.</i><br />
<i>I am you when I refuse to help you until you put some money in my palm.</i><br />
<i>I am you when I won’t let you go off to tend to your mother.</i><br />
<i>I am you when I lie to you about how sick I am for a day off.</i><br />
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<i>I think for a minute.</i><br />
<i>Who am I to demand such a high increase from my boss?</i><br />
<i>Who am I to deny my worker a decent wage?</i><br />
<i>Who am I to go through red lights?</i><br />
<i>Who am I to drop litter anywhere but in the bin?</i><br />
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<i>I am my Country.</i><br />
<i>What I do matters to you because what you do matters to me.</i><br />
<i>I make my country by every action and every inaction.</i><br />
<i>If I speed why should I be angered when you drive on the hard shoulder?</i><br />
<i>If I steal an hour off work why should I be surprised when you steal my car?</i><br />
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<i>So I commit.</i><br />
<i>I commit to the little things such as wearing my seatbelt.</i><br />
<i>I commit to the little things such as paying my taxes.</i><br />
<i>I commit to the little things because that is the big thing.</i><br />
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<i>Therefore I choose.</i><br />
<i>I choose to afford you the respect I deserve.</i><br />
<i>I choose to give a little more than is comfortable.</i><br />
<i>I choose to remember each day to be a person of compassion and integrity</i>Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-76445455394044305312011-07-27T09:16:00.000+02:002011-07-27T09:16:03.202+02:002012It's been anticipation and apprehension this week as we received first news of where we have been pencilled in for stationing in 2012. And while we have been given the usual warnings, disclaimers, "things could change", "subject to confirmation by Conference", terms and conditions apply, E & O E, we are a licenced financial services provider, winners know where to stop, etc. warnings and admonitions, at this stage things are looking exciting for me, both in terms of ministry as well as on the personal / family front.<br />
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More news to follow...<br />
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(Postscript to my previous post: I see that the masthead on the ANCYL's webpage has been changed, with all references to a R16 million home being removed. I wonder if someone had hacked their website over the weekend? Either way, regardless of the hype, accusations and counter-accusations by Malema and media alike, that's sure one seriously fancy pad the self-proclaimed "champion of the poor" is building!)Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455062295291252427.post-15263106249392442672011-07-25T06:24:00.000+02:002011-07-25T06:24:16.195+02:00Is this arrogance personified, or what?!This past weekend I was doing some research for a piece I was writing on tax policy, based on recent statements made by Minister of Social Development Bathabile Dlamini that the wealthy should be taxed more heavily than at present.<br />
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As much as we all hate paying taxes, not so much because we resent contributing towards the common good but because we often see how certain state departments mismanage the taxes they collect, the concept of those with substantial means making proportionally higher contributions to state coffers has inherent merit. However, one fact that needs to be acknowledged is that our tax tables are already structured according to a progressive scale, which means that while a person earning, say, R50 000 per annum pays no personal income tax, the person earning R5 million per annum contributes almost 40% thereof in direct income tax.<br />
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My premise in this particular piece was therefore that taxes aimed at "punishing" the wealthy, especially if they are not carefully thought out, can have unintended consequences. It is in human nature to protect what one has - after all, you and I would not leave our wallets on the dashboard of our cars with the doors unlocked, would we? Worldwide experience has shown that excessively high taxation rates have in fact produced <u>lower</u> state revenue when expressed as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product.<br />
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Okay - enough of the Tax 101. Where does Julius Malema fit into this? Well, calls for a so-called "lifestyle audit" by the South African Revenue Service aside, Malema has been in the news mainly for his stance on nationalisation, stating publicly that such state expropriation of private assets in the mining and banking sectors should be without compensation if necessary. Needless to say, I expected the ANC Youth League's website to have some sort of statement to this regard, since there is not much different between taxes and nationalisation when you come to think of it - both rely on the coercive power of the state to generate revenue for state coffers.<br />
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Let me also state that while the finance person in me does not agree with Malema's proposed methods, and the minister in me has problems with his lavish lifestyle, the Christian in me has to recognise the very real needs of poverty alleviation and access to land that Malema is ostensibly seeking to address. Horrendous as the prospect may sound to some, the Church needs to in fact be partnering with organisations such as the ANC Youth League insofar as common interests (i.e. social upliftment) coincide.<br />
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But nothing could have prepared me for the sheer gall and arrogance that is portrayed in this picture on the ANC Youth League's website masthead (and no, I did NOT PhotoShop the picture - this is as I found it. Check it out for yourself on the ANC Youth League's <a href="http://www.ancyl.org.za/index.php">website</a>.)<br />
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You've got to hand it to Julius Malema and those in charge of the ANC Youth League's website for showing the rest of us how to do arrogance in style. Malema may as well have one of those horridly offensive bumper stickers that has "F*** the Poor" printed on it stuck on the back of his car. All I can say is, if I was a poor person (or, for that matter, an ANC Youth League member) having seen this picture, I would have some degree of difficulty fighting back a very strong urge to punch Julie Baby squarely, fiercely, and repeatedly in the middle of his fat smirking mug!Steven Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08152927209644414146noreply@blogger.com0