From The Ends Of The Earth

'Mana' - what is it?

2008-07-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest parts of moving to another part of the world is the cross-cultural change. If we'd moved to another part of the world, with a completely different climate, different language etc, it may have been much more difficult. However, things are not the same here, even though they often have a familiar feel. We've been trying to be aware of cultural differences and to work in a sensitive way, that doesn't neglect who we are and what we value, but likewise, seeks to adapt to Kiwi ways of doing things as we share the Gospel out here (NB - The message doesn't change, but the ways we share it may adapt). The Apostle Paul sums the idea up in 1 Corinthians 9, when he says "I have become all things to all people, so that by all possible means, I might save some. I do this for the sake of the Gospel..." I suppose in essence, that is our philosophy of ministry.

I won't pretend that understanding another culture is always easy, and perhaps adapting to it, is even harder, but we try our best. One of the ideas that is prevalent in Kiwi thought is the concept of "mana". It's a Maori word, which is defined in English as "authority, control, influence, prestige or power". It is also honour. A Maori website describes three kinds of mana - the mana a person is born with, mana people give to you & group mana. The obvious names of people who have/had mana are Sir Edmund Hilary and Richie McCaw (the All Blacks captain).

Richie McCaw - a man with mana (who I happened to 'bump' into last week)

I think the concept of mana is one of the harder adjustments for a foreigner coming into NZ. Very often we are used to people accepting us for titles, past achievements or roles, whereas in NZ, mana has to be earned. It doesn't come immediately. It's a subtle cultural shift, with huge consequences. It affects many walks of life, but particularly ministry here in NZ. I've noticed that it impacts my work, my preaching and generally, our integration into Kiwi life.

The cross-cultural adjustments are sometimes easy, sometimes hard. They're sometimes fun and sometimes frustrating. They often keep you on your toes! Last week, I was at Lincoln Uni (near Christchurch) for the Christian Fellowship's Jesus Week - it was quite different from a typical mission week that I am used to, but it taught me a lot and helped me significantly in the cross-cultural learning. I trust it will impact my thinking as we consider an outreach strategy for TSCF and our groups nationally. As I close, here's a picture that illustrated just one difference to what I'm used to. This picture was taken outside the University library - Agricultural Studies is one of the biggest courses down there & gum boots are a shorter version of what I'd normally call Wellies!

Who is TSCF? - #5 Tim Hodge

2008-07-14T16:22:00.000-07:00

This week, I'm down in Lincoln (just outside of Christchurch on South Island) with the University Christian Fellowship. It's great to work Tim, another Brit, who has been out here for quite a while now. He and his wife, Lizzy are a delight to work with and it's a real encouragement to be partnering in the Gospel together. It's also fab to be able to talk cricket with him. So, part 5 of "Who is TSCF?" - introducing Tim...

Name: Tim Hodge, aka "Mothy" (think the second half of Tim's first name)

University Works with: Lincoln University in Canterbury, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology in Nelson city.

University Studied at: University of Salford, Greater Manchester

Course: BSc Hons Physical Geography

Year: Studied in the mid-1990s.

Home Town: In NZ, Lincoln. In the UK, Gloucester.

Interests: Windsurfing in summer, skiing in winter, cricket & Lizzy (his wife) any time of year.

Which TSCF group are you involved with?: All of them at National events, primarily Lincoln Uni CF & NMIT CF.

Why are you involved?: That's a long story. Essentially, the moral of the story is 'be careful what you pray for'. Whilst a new Christian and a student in the UK, I "adopted" 2 countries to pray for - Djibouti and New Zealand. That led to being a part of GI (a fore-runner of MINTY- TSCF's Graduate Discipleship Training Programme) and that led to Andy Saunders, TSCF's General Secretary at the time inviting me back more medium term. For the last four years, I have been very excited to work with students to put the Gospel at the heart of NZ and NZ at the heart of world mission.

Wisdom from a Muppet

2008-07-12T18:51:00.001-07:00

One of my favourite Christmas films is 'A Muppet's Christmas Carol' - it's a sublime mix of a classic story, with famous actors and the Muppets. In the film, Kermit the Frog says "Life is a series of meetings and partings". I'm told that Kermit may actually be quoting someone else, but I prefer it as a quote by a frog, and a Muppet at that.

Out of the mouth of frogs...

Yesterday, we took my sister Emma, her husband, Ollie & son, Seth to the airport to say goodbye to them as they continued on their way round the world from Argentina to the UK. They've been with us for little under a week, but we managed to see a fair bit of the North Island in that time and to show them the place we call home. As we left the airport, having dropped them off, I reminded Jen that airports are a place of happiness and sadness. The very place that at times will be a place of tears will also at other times be a place of real joy and happiness. We look forward to future times of happiness at the airport, when we welcome others to these Islands.

Tonight, I head away to Lincoln University Christian Fellowship for their 'Jesus Week' - for Jen, it's another goodbye at the airport, so please pray for her. For me, it's a reminder of why we came to NZ - to be involved in working with students as we seek to share the amazing message of the Gospel of Jesus on the campuses in these Islands. Please pray for us both in the coming week.

Lives that Count

2008-07-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

This year's TSCF Mid-Year conference finished on Wednesday & was entitled 'Lives that Count - Mission from McDonalds to Mongolia'. We had a great week with over 100 students up in Willow Park Christian Camp, on the outskirts of Auckland. It's in a gorgeous location right next to the beach & was where I stayed with the UK team 2 years ago, so brought back good memories.

Over the week, we had Bible-teaching from Acts 1-4, brought by a variety of speakers, along with consideration of mission in different settings. I was asked to share on Mission in the University and taught from Luke 8 (the Parable of the Sower). Though I am not green-fingered, I shared 6 principles from the passage:

1 - If you want fruit, you must first sow - therefore, sow!

2 - Not every seed you sow will grow - therefore, sow widely.

3 - We don't know which seeds will grow - therefore, sow dependantly.

4 - It takes time for seeds to grow - therefore, sow patiently.

5 - There will be disappointments - therefore, sow realistically.

6 - There will be fruit - therefore, sow expectantly.

I trust it was an encouragement to the students, particularly as I tried to apply it specifically to them and their student setting.

One of the highlights of the conference was the field trip we all went on. We visited three places of worship - a large Buddhist temple, an Islamic centre and a shopping mall. In each of the places, it was good to observe how others worship and to be able to consider how we share the exclusivity of Jesus in a pluralist world.

The things that struck me in the three places were:

* In the Buddhist temple - the flaws in Buddhist thought regarding cause & effect, morals and origins. It was an Acts 17 experience for me (somewhat distressing) to see people lighting incense to offer to the Buddha in vain hope of better future.

TSCF Students & Staff outside Buddhist Temple

* In the Islamic centre - the 'niceness' of the man who showed us round. He was very kind, humorous and welcoming towards us. And yet, he had no certainty of his future. Tragically, again and again, he referred to how he hoped for the best in the future, but had no certainty. Again, he lacked the certainty that simple trust in Jesus and His death and resurrection brings.

* In the shopping mall - the desire to buy was immense. I knew I would find it difficult the moment I walked into the mall & the first thing I saw was the Starbucks logo facing me! I realise how often I purchase and that can be a false god, luring me into the belief that if I buy things, my life will be improved.

Brief chance to get my nails sorted in the mall

My reflections on the trip reminded me again that Jesus is the only Way, Truth and Life. No-one comes to the Father, except through Him. Salvation is found in no-one else, for there is no other name given under heaven by which we must be saved. Do pray for our students and staff as we proclaim the Jesus as the only Way to God.

The group of students from Wellington

Next week, my sister, her husband & newborn Seth arrive in NZ for a few days. We're looking forward to spending some time with them, showing them the sights & getting to know Seth.

Introducing Tui

2008-06-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, I head away to our Mid-Year Conference up in Auckland. It's a time where Staff & students join together as we seek to train, encourage, challenge & enthuse the campus groups in the task of reaching students for Christ. As with most of these student conferences, the week before tends to be busy preparing for the conference and this week has been no different.

The theme for the week is "Lives that Count - Mission from MacDonalds to Mongolia" & I am due to speak on Sunday night on the topic of Mission in the University. I'll share the outline of the talk later (after I've given it!), but for now, we would value your prayers that this conference would be a conference that counts and from it that many students would go on to live lives that count. (I don't think we'll have internet access during the conference, so I'll blog again once it's over.)

I'd also like to introduce what I hope may become a regular(ish) feature on this blog - the Tui Adverts. Tui (a Kiwi beer) have some fantastic adverts, which are eye-catching because of their strong branding and often humourous captions. They're quite simple adverts, as all they consist of is a statement (on the left hand side) with the Tui caption "Yeah Right" on the left hand side. I'd like to use the idea in talks/outreaches as it is a well-recognised campaign and has plenty of potential. On our fridge, we have a mini Tui advert, with our own letters which we can change. So, every so often, I'll post the latest offering on here, just for a change of scenery...So, the first Tui Yeah Right ad is courtesy of the Pollock boys (Nigel & Ailsa's 3 sons) who after a recent visit left the following. Given what's happened between England & NZ in cricket & rugby lately, it seems somewhat apt.

This is what it's all about...

2008-06-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

This week has been a busy one, as I've been in Auckland (twice), Palmerston North and of course a bit of time here in Wellington! In many ways, this week has been what my work & marriage to Jen are all about. Let me explain...

Since Jen & I married 9 months ago (wow, time flies!), we've enjoyed many happy experiences. However, this week, we've had some of those harder times. Last Saturday, just as we were preparing to leave for Auckland, we heard news that Jen's grandad (affectionally known as Papa) had passed away. He was 91 and so had lived a good long life. It's been hard for Jen being so far away in such a sad time and particularly missing the funeral. So, last night, we drove to an inlet on the edge of some water just a few miles away from where we live and had our own time of remembrance for him and his life. We listened to the hymns that had been sung at his funeral, read the Bible readings that had been read & prayed thanking God for him and asking for his help for the family. As we drove back, Jen shared with me her memories of his life and the happiness he'd brought. We have enjoyed many happy times in our short married life, and whilst there were happy memories, it was one of the harder times. But that is what marriage is about - sharing the good and the bad times together, growing closer together & closer to God. This is what marriage is all about.

Work-wise, I have travelled this week with Nigel Pollock, friend, neighbour & boss (I'm not sure which order they come in!). We've attended two debates which TSCF has sponsored with local Christians and the New Zealand Association of Rationalists and Humanists. The debates have been between William Lane Craig (a leading Christian apologist from the USA) and Bill Cooke (a leading atheist & humanist in NZ). As we think about outreach here in NZ, our desire is to get students thinking about important matters and to seek God and to trust in Jesus as Lord and Saviour. These debates are part of this, along with other outreach initiatives. We were thrilled in Auckland to see that the venue that had been planned had been changed for a bigger venue. A packed audience (it was so full, that they had to hurriedly arrange 4 overflow rooms!) of approx 700 including many students heard the debate on the question "Is God a Delusion?" It was a real thrill to be a part of this. Two nights later, approx 1300 people gathered in the Regent Theatre in Palmerston North to hear the same topic debated. Again, it was fantastic to see so many people hearing the arguments for and against the moot, but also tragic to hear it was due to Christians that Bill Cooke explained why he had become an atheist & humanist. We were grateful to William Lane Craig for making himself available for other events, having been initially invited to NZ to speak at an academic conference, but also to Bill Cooke for his willingness to debate.

When we moved to NZ, our desire was to see students reaching students for Christ. Whilst these are only 2 events, they demonstrate some of the things we would like to see here in NZ. These events reminded me that this is what my work is about.

My job in our marriage and in my work is to do what John the Baptist did - to point to Jesus, and tell people "Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Please pray for us that I would point to Jesus in both these aspects of my life. This is what my life is to be all about.

The Big Question

2008-06-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

In recent weeks, the campus groups in Wellington have held a few outreach initiatives. One of these was called "Ask God in the Quad". In the centre of the University is a large Quad, which is the main thoroughfare of the University. Over the period of a week, they placed a large box in the centre of the Quad, with a sign saying "If you could ask God one question, what would it be?"

Over the week, the students placed their questions inside the box and the CU and ICF have sought to respond to them on their website and also are trying to respond to them in the coming weeks in their programme. The questions make interesting reading - some light-hearted, some heart-felt, some very probing. They provide an interesting insight into Kiwi and International student culture here in NZ. I've not included all of them (some of them are unpostable!), but below is a selection of some of the questions students ask. I find it intriguing that there are so many questions that people have. Please pray that as we seek to answer students' questions that we would point people to Jesus and that in Him, they would find the answer to all of life's questions.

* I don't believe in God, I put my faith in science, will I go to hell?

* Why does Christianity seek to convert others to its religion when many people pay only lip service to a God?

* Why would you invent COLD?

* Why do you hate me?

* Why God why?

* Why does God allow slavery, rape, murder the holocaust???

* If jesus battled a ninja who would win? -jesus can heal people etc, but has no offensive skills -ninjas are awesome -jesus is 'son of god', would god interfere if a ninja was about to win? -ninjas live forever.

* Why do Christians tend to be so self-righteous?!!

* Why does the church have so much power + money?

* Why does God hate homosexuals if he created us all & we are His children?

*What does God make of Monty Python? Seriously...Why are you so mysterious?

* Is Scientology really real? Is it part of Christianity? It seems kind of far-fetched.

* What does Eternity look like?

* Is she the one?

* Why are so many wars in the name of religion?If there is a god why is there poverty, illness, & war? Why do innocent people die?

* Why am I a lesbian?

* How did you come up with the platypus & the bumble bee??

* Will John ever love me the way I love him?

* Where is the evidence for your existence?

* Why can’t I stop these bad thoughts!

* When will the world end?

* Dear God, Why are both my girlfriend and mother dying of terminal cancer? I hate you

* Is heaven really in the sky and is hell really underground? Or is this just areas made up by humans to simplify things?

* Can a serial murderer get into heaven?

* My first (gay) boyfriend shot himself. Is he in hell?

* Did Noah have Kiwi’s and Kangaroos on the ark?

* Will I pass ACCY 323?

* Dear God, tell me why my existence is so empty? Why do I exist – it wasn’t even my choice.

* Why does God allow the Burmese, Chileans, Chinese to suffer – that its always the poorest of humanity that get the worst deal in life.

* How do paedophiles fit into your grand scheme? What good do they do their victims?

* Why did my mother get raped and murdered when I was five?

(Certain names/details have been changed to protect idenitities.)

New home

2008-06-04T03:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Jen & I move into what will be our house for the next while...we're obviously excited & looking forward to making the house our 'home'. If you want our new address, just send me an email & I'll send it to you.

Something else that has a new home is my brother Jonathan's fantastic resource 10ofthose.com Originally started whilst he was involved in his University Christian Union, it has grown and become a great way to buy Christian books in bulk (or even in smaller quantities!). Today, he's relaunched with a new website. I commend it to you & really recommend one of the books that appears on the homepage - 'Extreme Righteousness' by Tom Hoverstol. It is one of the most significant Christian books I've read, and is thoroughly interesting & potentially life-changing. You ought to buy it!

Do use 10ofthose, tell others about it & let's get good Christian books out there! (Incidentally, they can ship books anywhere in the world and usually have the cheapest prices around...add to this that all profits are churned back into world missions & you have one of the best ideas around!)

Dispatches from my Desk...

2008-06-02T19:07:00.001-07:00

Very often job titles and job descriptions don't tell the half of what a person actually does. My job title is "Wellington Team Leader & National Outreach Co-ordinator". The first part is the simplest, as I co-lead the Wellington Staff Team with Karen Lau. As a team, we are there to encourage, support & disciple the students at Victoria University & Massey University student campus groups.

At the moment, the campus groups consist of Victoria University's Christian Union & International Christian Fellowship (both consist of about 20-30 students) & we would love to see a regular work going on at Massey University.

The second part of my job title is "National Outreach Co-ordinator" which in more Christian lingo is Evangelist. In many ways, the role is undefined and is what I make of it, but really the desire is that I would consider how TSCF and TSCF groups can best have an evangelistic focus in all we do. How that looks will vary from day to day, but in the early days, I'm trying to do a lot of something that doesn't come naturally for me - listening! I'm trying to watch, listen & comprehend what the influences are on Kiwi culture, Christians & non-Christian students & what shapes their thoughts about God, the Gospel & how our message is shared.

The desire is that as I "listen", with the help of others, we could develop an outreach strategy that shares the Gospel in a relevant, Biblical, cross-centred way. Ultimately, "it is God who makes things grow" (1 Cor 3:7), but as John Stott argues we need to be people who are double-listeners, who listen to the Word & to the world around us.

So...what does the job look like from day to day?

I've tried to meet up with as many people as possible (& that's ongoing) - students, Christian leaders, members of other clubs & societies, etc. It's good just chatting and hearing the way people think and what key influences are for them. I'm also visiting a few campuses around the country seeing how things are set up, where there are obvious outreach opportunities, what's already being done (what works & what doesn't). Along with that, I have the more regular work here in Wellington, which I get to experience more regularly and closer at hand. It also means I get to work with and get to know certain students a bit better.

We're also trying to visit key NZ places which make this country what it is - probably the most significant of these is right on our doorstep here in Wellington, the national museum, Te Papa (if you visit us, I guarantee it'll be on our list of places to take you!), but there are quite a few - I'm hoping to go round Parliament (the Beehive) & visit the place where the first missionaries landed amongst others. Reading as much as I can about NZ and key NZ people has been enjoyable so far. I suppose it's all being stored up in my head and forming a bigger picture which will shape how we do outreach nationally and locally.

No two days are the same & I'm looking forward to working on our strategy and working with folks around these Islands as we share the Gospel together. It's been exciting so far & I'm sure the best is yet to come!

(Credit for the idea for this post goes to Emma, my big sister who suggested it in an email to me (See, I do listen to you, (sometimes) Emma!) She lives in Argentina & has just had little Seth, who is doing his best to move past Anglo-Argentinian hostilities by getting citizenship of both countries. Still, if he has any of the skills of Maradona, he'd better play for England...)

Who is TSCF? - #4 Val Goold

2008-05-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Time for another introduction to the world of TSCF. Today's introduction is to one of my colleagues based out of the TSCF office here in Wellington. Val Goold is the Head of Student Ministries and ensures we have a co-ordinated strategy across the country. She works hard, travels lots & can talk rugby as well as anyone I know - she's great to work with.

Name: Val Goold
University: Studied at Victoria University a few years ago now.
Course: BA in Economic History & History
Year: I didn't dare ask Val when she studied!
Home Town: Orini, (450 people, 2 churches, no pub!) Waikato (in the North), NZ
Interests: Rugby, rugby & rugby!
Which TSCF group are you involved with?: All of them - I oversee the work that's happening on the ground nationally as Head of Student Ministries.
Why are you involved?: Because working with students makes me feel like I'm 21 again without actually having to be it! Students are strategic, searching and superb.

A smiling Val - nothing to do with the bottle (of sparkling grape juice!)

Men, Maraes & Mad Cars

2008-05-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

In the last month, loads has happened in terms of family, transisitions into Kiwi life, but particularly in ministry. I've blogged about family & some of the transitions, but have been decidedly quiet in reporting about the ministry. So....here goes!

It seems a long time ago now, but back in mid-April, the Victoria University CU went away for the weekend and joined with the ICF on the Sunday at a Marae. Rather than going into endless details about the Marae, let me give a shameless plug for Jen's blog, where she gave details of what a Marae is & some of the Maori cultural experiences we enjoyed.

With the CU, we looked at outreach & how we can best share the Gospel message with our friends. It was a good weekend and was a good opportunity to get to know students better. It was also great to hear from missionaries serving in Thailand with friends out there and to be challenged that our message is a global one & not just a Western one.

The happy campers

On the Sunday, we joined with ICF at the Marae. One of my responsibilities as Outreach Coordinator is to consider how we can share the Gospel in a multi-cultural society. The Maori heritage of New Zealand provides some unique opportunities to share the Gospel with international students in ways that reflect upon the history of these islands, but share the Biblical story as well. We would love to increase these cultural cross-overs and see the Gospel explained with cultural relevance to Kiwis and visitors alike.

The Marae Massif - CU & ICF students

Then, this weekend I spent with some of the lads from the Christian Fellowship at Massey Uni, Palmerston North. I felt drained and in terms of giving out felt I was drawing on an empty tank, but God in His goodness used the time we spent with the lads. At the end of the weekend, as we reflected together on all that God had been speaking to us about, it seemed that the challenge to get into God's Word more was one of the stand-out lessons. Together, we learned Psalm 119:9 and as I taught the lads, I realised again for myself that I need to get into God's Word too.

We had great times together - some of the things we did were hilarious and very different experiences from student ministry in the UK. Along with the more sedate clay-pigeon shooting & waka racing (canoes), we also had a mad-car race and played flame-football. The mad car was a small Suzuki, which we raced around a short circuit. It sounds simple, but the steering wheel had been adjusted, so when you turned it left, the car went right & vice versa. After my first go on it, I felt traumatised. In some ways, it reminded me of cross-cultural ministry, where you do something expecting one result & get the complete opposite! The flame football game was played at night - basically, a whole load of rags held together in a wire frame & soaked with meths and set alight. I decided my age had got the better of me & just watched from the side.

Thank you for your prayers for the ministry amongst students here. There is never a dull day! I love being involved in the lives of students & seeing God at work amongst them. Please pray that God would raise up men & women to be all out for Him. I have recently got hold of a book I first read as a teenager, which influenced me significantly back then & now resonates with all that we're experiencing. It's 'Sacrifice' and was written by the chap whose trip to NZ led to TSCF being formed. I'm re-reading it & being freshly challenged by it. At the end of the book, Guinness writes:

"Where are the young men and women of this generation who will hold their lives cheap, and be faithful even unto death? Where are those who will lose their lives for Christ's sake - flinging them away for love of Him? Where are those who will live dangerously and be reckless in His service? Where his lovers - those who love Him and the souls of men more than their own reputations or comfort, or very life?

Where are the men who say "no" to self; who take up Christ's cross to bear it after Him; who are willing to be nailed to it in college or office, home or missionfield; who are willing, if need be, to bleed, to suffer and to die on it?

Where are the men of vision today? Where are the men of enduring vision? Where are the men who have seen the King in His beauty, by whom from henceforth all else is counted but refuse that they may win Christ? Where are the adventurers, the explorers, the pioneers for God who count one human soul of far greater value than the rise or fall of an empire? Where are the men of glory in God-sent loneliness, difficulties, persecutions, misunderstandings, disciplines, sacrifice, death?

Where are the men who are willing to pay the price of vision?

Where are the men of prayer? Where are the men who, like the psalmist of old, count God's Word of more importance to them than their daily food? Where are the men who, like Moses, commune with God face to face as a man speaks with his friend, and unmistakeably bear with them the fragrance of the meeting through the day?

Where are God's men in this day of God's power?"
(Howard Guinness, Sacrifice, p71-72)

With God's help, we long that He would raise up men and women to be His people in this day of God's power.

The Power of Music, Creation & the Gospel.

2008-05-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was flying from Christchurch (on South Island) to Wellington (on North Island). It was a lovely, clear, crisp day - perfect conditions for flying. Much has happened in the past few weeks & I was drained physically & emotionally, so quite unusually for me, I put away all reading material & just took my I-Pod on board. (Incidentally, it was great to just board the plane & go through no security checks at all - NZ is a wonderfully uncomplicated country!)

As we took off, the snow-capped Southern Alps were in the distance and as soon as I was allowed, I turned the I-Pod on to listen to some music. One of the songs on my playlist is the NZ National Anthem. I've put it on the I-Pod to remind me of our new home & the challenges we face as we seek to share the Gospel in a different context.

The Southern Alps

As I listened the words of the anthem struck me - it's sung in Maori first & then in English.

"God of Nations at Thy feet, In the bonds of love we meet,

Hear our voices, we entreat, God defend our free land.

Guard Pacific's triple star, From the shafts of strife and war,

Make her praises heard afar, God defend New Zealand."

It's a simple and catchy tune, and whilst flying, I was looking below at the beauty of God's creation thinking about the words. Whilst in no way wishing to denigrade the NZ National Anthem (I'm English - there's plenty to knock about our anthem!), I started thinking about the last 2 lines and my desires for NZ. I started to think of the possibilities of the Gospel shaping and changing a nation. I pondered what it would be like if students across these islands heard the Gospel, responded and brought others to Christ. I realised that whilst I love NZ, it's not her praises that I want to be heard afar, but rather God's praises.

The next song on my I-Pod was a song called "More than Wonderful" - it sings of how Jesus is more wonderful than my mind can conceive, than my heart can believe & how He goes beyond my highest hopes and fondest dreams. It's a song that was played lots by my parents in my childhood, and yesterday, at 30,000 feet, I realised how true it is. Jesus has done so much for me - He is God incarnate. He's the One who formed the beautiful sky, the gorgeous mountains and scenery, the One who put that creative instinct within us that can make music & cause us to enjoy it, He's the One who created emotions, and most of all, He's the One who came from heaven to seek and to save that which was lost - to rescue and save sinners.

In those moments on the short flight, I realised the power of music to impact us, the power of God's creation to show us who He is, but more importantly, I realised again the power of the Gospel and longed for it to change lives here in NZ that would have an impact throughout the world.

Please pray for us as we seek to invest in student's lives for eternity. This weekend, I am speaking with Massey University (Palmerston North) Christian Fellowship's lad's weekend. I'm speaking from 2 Timothy 1 & 2, and would love to see lives changed by God's Word. Only by Him and through Him can a nation be changed.

Who is TSCF? - #3 Henry Poon

2008-05-11T03:03:00.001-07:00

Apologies that I've been so poor at blogging lately - I will try to update a bit more frequently in the next few weeks. There's lots to catch up on, but first, meet Henry!Name: Henry Poon

University: Victoria University, Wellington ( & Swarthmore College, Philadelphia, PA, USA)
Course: Maths & Economics (Exchange student from USA)

Year: Junior (US System), which to the rest of us means 3rd year.
Home Town: Miami, FL, USA
Interests: Adventuring, Captainball, Travelling

Which TSCF group are you involved with?: ICF & Christian Union & the small groups for both
Why are you involved?: I think it is important for people to know about Jesus.

Quirky Sights

2008-04-30T20:03:00.001-07:00

As we've visited different parts of NZ, we've seen some unusual & intriguing sights and signs that make this country so intriguing. Here's one or two of them to keep you amused.

Finally home

2008-04-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

A simple post-script to my post about Barb.

Barb was cared for by many wonderful people in various places. One place that we looked at a few times, but due to location never became her permanent home was the Lodge Trust in Rutland. Fred & Anne Hutton, the founders, are family friends and I commend to you their work. If you feel able, do support them as they provide individual support for adults with learning disabilities in Christian homes & working environments.

Happy Memories - Barbara Hill

2008-04-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a hard few days & my apologies that I've been poor at blogging of late. Much has happened over the past few weeks & I will report on some of those things at some point, but for now I want to post about my Aunt Barbara (my mum's younger sister) who went to be with Jesus on Friday night (UK time).

In many ways, Barb (as she was affectionately known) was a sister to me. She had Down's Syndrome and for most of her life, was cared for admirably by my Grandma Hill. Life wasn't straightforward for Barb - particularly in recent years, health issues restricted her in many ways, however, it was a very simple life with simple pleasures.

I have many happy memories of Barb. It's not often that when someone dies, the only memories you have of them are happy ones - usually, there are some more difficult memories, but with Barb, she brought much happiness to our lives.

The fondest memories revolve round times of giving - Barb loved gifts & the excitement of Christmas was always great with her. It was enjoyable each year to buy her the latest Disney film or CD, to buy Barbie dolls (which she loved) or toys which you wouldn't normally be able to buy for your Aunt.

Sadly, over recent years her health has deteriorated and last week, she was rushed into hospital with hours to live. Typically, Barb clung on and allowed chance for family to say goodbye. For me that was done a few months ago, when we left for New Zealand. My last memory of her was visiting her in her care home, holding her hand and singing with her "Jesus Loves Me This I Know" - it's such a simple song, but I am convinced that in her own simple way, Jesus was her friend. After singing it, in her very affectionate manner, she pulled our faces close together and smiled. As I sit on the other side of the world, it is a real joy to know that she is now face to face with Jesus and that her body that in so many ways has groaned has been liberated (Romans 8:18-27).

Yes, there have been many tears the past few days, but amidst the sadness, there is a real gladness for Barb & treasured memories of one who brought much joy. We'll miss you Barb.

Barbara Hill (1958 - 2008)

"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. May the Name of the Lord be praised."

(Job 1:21)

Who is TSCF? - #2 Peng

2008-04-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

Name: James Wong Kein Peng (aka Peng)

University: Victoria University, Wellington

Course: Architecture

Year: 3rd

Home Town: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Interests: Guitar, Architecture, Visualization (he tells me the "Z" (Zed, not Zee) in there is important, even though Brits would spell it with an "S"), Cooking, Having good conversations

Which TSCF group are you involved with?: ICF

Why are you involved?: I love the community. I love the TSCF conferences and teaching which centres on the Word.

The Highs & Lows of Life

2008-04-21T02:36:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of posts recently - I had hoped to post earlier today, but various circumstances prevented that.

Over the past few weeks, we have experienced real highs & lows of life - enjoyment of time with students & colleagues, the joys & frustrations of trying to find a house, celebrating Emma & Ollie's baby - Seth, but also more recently as we've had several family members battle with ill health. I'll post more when I can (& when I get chance), but for now, we would appreciate your prayers for our extended family (or as they call it here, our whanau).

(A real motley crew...and there's even more now!)

Who is TSCF? - #1 Phil Luey

2008-04-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

I'm typing this in a bit of a mad dash, having arrived home late last night from the CU & ICF camps and before heading away with the new TSCF staff for a few days. It's Monday morning & there's lots to be done before going away in a few minutes! As promised, I'd said I would profile who TSCF is - it's made up of students, staff, graduates, supporters all over NZ (& the world). To give an idea of the people we're working with, I'm going to profile different people over the coming months. First up, is one of the students, Phil. I'll post later in the week with news from the camps, but for now, meet Phil.

Phil & some other guy who had a bit too short a haircut!

Name: Phillip Luey. (known as Phil)
University: Victoria University, Wellington
Course: Science & Technology
Year: 4th
Home town: Lower Hutt, (just outside Wellington), New Zealand
Interests: Rugby League (good on you, Phil!), Rugby Union, Cricket, Badminton, Squash & Basketball, Videogames, hanging out with friends & family
Which TSCF group are you involved with? International Christian Fellowship (ICF), Vic Uni, Wellington
Why are you involved in TSCF? I was asked to come along by a friend & got involved.
(If you're one of my students & you want to be profiled, send me an email & I'll see what I can do!)

Lectures with my Students

2008-04-08T18:18:00.000-07:00

I'm sure some of you may be wondering, what do you do with all your day? How does the average day look when working for TSCF? I'm not sure there is such a thing as a typical day for myself or really anyone in TSCF, but today I've been doing something which one of our staff Christina, had done up in Auckland & it has been recommended to all staff throughout the country. It is a fairly obvious form of cultural acclimatisation, but was extremely worthwhile...so, what was it?

Today, I went and spent some time in a lecture with my students. I'd asked a member of the Victoria University International Christian Fellowship (ICF) if I could go to some lectures with him & spend some time with him. So, I've just returned back from the Vic Uni Law School, where I attended a lecture in 'Conflicts in Law'. I'm sure that a little more time to reflect will allow more developed thoughts, but here are a few observations from my time back at Uni:

* Time has moved on...I can't remember any laptops in lectures when I was a student. Data projectors were in their early stages of use & OHPs were the order of the day. Things have changed significantly in each of those areas, though there were still 3 OHPs in the lecture theatre! (Lecturers still are appallingly bad at using technology though!)

* Lectures themselves have changed very little. Though it was a different course to that which I studied, the level of student participation was minimal & forced. Interaction was poor and throughout the lecture, students yawning, drinking, and eating sweets were regular occurences.

* I saw that lecturers themselves can have a significant influence on students. The lecturer was from Germany & on several occasions seemed to want to champion the glories of Deutschland, rather than teaching the subject. I realised again the potential of Christian lecturers teaching in our Universities.

Universities are our mission field, but they are also our training ground. We long to see disciples made amongst the students here in NZ. As TSCF's logo states, we are "a bridge over which students meet Christ" - we want that to be both Christian & non-Christian students.

A frequent question I have been asked (& have seen needs to be answered!) is "Who, or what is TSCF?" - in the coming months, I will try & answer that question by profiling in posts who TSCF is - students, staff & grads. Hopefully, you'll get a flavour of who we are & what we are about. You'll have to wait to see how that pans out!

Happy Families

2008-04-06T03:28:00.000-07:00

This morning when I woke, I had a tune in my head from some years back now. It was a song that I heard in the USA in my mid-teens, which started with the words "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God" - the song stuck in my mind for other reasons, which I won't go into now. However, over the past few weeks, the more observant of you will have noticed I've blogged quite a few times about sporting matters - I love sport & sport plays an important part in the everyday life of many New Zealanders. Once again, this weekend, we got to see some live sport (for those interested, the Rugby Super 14 - the Hurricanes & the Sharks...though given the weather conditions, the Monsoons & the Drowned Rats would have been more appropriate), but as Sunday draws to a close here, I want to write about something far more important to me than sport.

Whilst I love various sports & regularly take time to watch sports (it's one of the chief ways I relax), I realised afresh that there's nothing I love more than being with Christians praising God & listening to His Word. Over recent weeks, we have visited several churches considering where we will make our church home here in Wellington - it's been a mixed experience, but it was great this morning to be at Lower Hutt Baptist Church which has stood out as a place where God's Word is central, the people are friendly & outward looking, and the worship of God (not just the music!) is fresh & real. As we sat in church, considering the opening lines of the Lord's Prayer, I thought no matter how much I enjoy sport (and I enjoy it a lot!), I am at my happiest when I'm doing what I was created for - praising God. The song I remembered this morning had special resonance today. As a child growing up, I wasn't always "so glad I was part of the family of God...", and not every Sunday service in NZ has been such an easy & enjoyable experience as today's, but I thank God for folks like those at LHBC who preach the Word and apply it to every area of their lives & today, a little older & hopefully wiser, I am glad I'm a part of the family of God.

Living in the Land of Understatement

2008-04-01T14:15:00.001-07:00

New Zealand is wonderfully understated. We've noticed that on our travels so far - places that in the UK would be charging a fortune to visit are free (or very cheap) to enter, sites that would be significant tourist attractions elsewhere, in New Zealand are just another part of the landscape, people who in the UK would be considered major celebrities just mingle with the ordinary riff-raff.

Over the weekend, we had a lovely time in the Wairarapa region. The contrast between hills, valleys and the coast was fantastic. We are already becoming accustomed to how lovely NZ is as a country and frequently enjoy the scenery. Jen has blogged about places we went and things we did, so I won't repeat. However, it was somewhat bizarre to pass two NZ cricketers on the street (Scott Styris & Chris Martin), who were walking along almost un-noticed & un-disturbed. I can't see the same happening to Freddie Flintoff! A few minutes ago, as I walked through the Basin Reserve cricket ground (on my way to the office), I passed Jesse Ryder (another NZ cricketer) who's out injured currently (he's a bit of a NZ cricket version of Gazza) - it was great to have a brief chat & then carry on my way to the office. NZ is so understated!

In spiritual terms, the need is often understated. For many years, NZ has been a great sending church, and I think the assumption in the UK is often that it is a Christian country. As we've travelled, we've realised the onslaught of secularism and the influx of Eastern religions, as well as cults such as the Mormons & JWs, particularly in rural areas. As we've visited churches, we've realised the task of teaching the Bible in NZ is urgent and the need for Biblical and cross-centred evangelism is great. It may appear we are over-stating the needs of NZ, but I think at times, the need is even greater than we realise. However, with that, I would use the words of Jesus when He said "Open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest." Please pray we would ripe a good harvest here in NZ.

Welcome to the world!

2008-03-31T02:18:00.000-07:00

We've been away a few days & I'm currently up in Auckland until tomorrow, so I'll keep this brief, but just wanted to say a big welcome to the world to Seth Sebastian Balch, my latest nephew (and a huge congratulations to Emma & Ollie on the safe arrival of their firstborn).

Here's a picture of Emma & Seth that I was sent earlier today.

(and don't forget your Uncle Ben!)

Developing Gospel Strategies

2008-03-25T18:35:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of postings since the cricket - we've been away over the Easter break (more details later). I've been thinking lately about strategies for evangelism here in New Zealand. One of my roles with TSCF is to think through how we do our evangelism amongst students & to think through, develop & train & input an evangelistic edge with the students.

Over the Easter break, Jen & I headed North for a few days break, which was a combination of work, holiday and cultural adjustment & understanding! We drove up in our new car (another answer to prayer!) along the East Coast of North Island to Napier (though we never actually saw the Coast!), encountering some interesting sights & experiences - the world's longest place name, NZ's Kiwi capital, Eketehuna, passing the famous Mangaweka plane cafe, driving on gravel roads for long distances through many rural & remote hamlets & arriving in Napier, the Art Deco capital of the world, where we stayed on the edge of a lovely apple orchard. (Pictures from our travels are at the bottom of this post.)

As we drove, I was frequently struck by how we attempt to reach people in such remote areas with the Gospel. And yet, as we drove through one town, Pongoroa (it was little more than a few houses & one shop!), I recognised the place name & remembered one of our students in Wellington was from there. The way we can reach towns such as Pongaroa, Eketehuna & many others with the Gospel is by reaching the students from those towns when they study at Universities across this land. In many ways, NZ is a very parochial place, but that also gives great opportunities for influence.

Today, I was on campus meeting with 2 students - one who grew up in Bangladesh/India and another who was from Malaysia. Whilst locally, it may be rural, the international reach here is significant. We long for the evangelism here in NZ to have a global reach as we share the Gospel with students on these islands.

Your prayers are always appreciated & particularly as I try to think through and listen & talk with others about how we can best develop Gospel strategies to make disciples here in NZ & beyond. Several have asked about family health issues & both Jen & I would value your prayers for family members & their various health needs. It can be hard being so far away when folks back home are struggling health-wise.

One last note before I go...a big hello to Eilidh Belsham in Germany, who we know checks this blog (& Jen's) regularly (she's worried we think she's a stalker, but we're not thinking that yet! We're just chuffed to have someone who checks out our news so regularly! (Let us know if you check it as often as our Stalker of the Day, Eilidh!)

My "bird" with a big bird.

Barmy Harmonies #5

2008-03-17T02:17:00.000-07:00

Today was St Patrick's Day, but also my birthday. Some years ago, there was a Guinness advert which said "There's only one St Patrick's Day & 364 practice days" - I like to adopt that principle for my birthday. There's only one Ben's birthday & 364 practice days!

It was great to be able to watch the final day's play (or morning as it turned out) of the Test Match. We got to meet & chat with Ryan Sidebottom briefly, so today, instead of a Barmy Harmony, I give you an exclusive...the ex-Yorkshireman will not be returning to Yorkshire for County Cricket - I asked him! He also was kind enough to break away from his impressive spell to have his picture taken with us.

So, I give you the day's play & activities in picture...look out for the pictures taken when Monty took the last wicket (McCullum) sealing the victory for England. Tonight, my colleagues joined us at the Lonestar restaurant for a birthday celebration - I may even reflect on 30 years of life in the coming days on the blog.