phamilynews

New Website / Blog

2010-09-09T12:34:00.000+12:00

Hi all, we now have a new website - www.phamilynews.net. At the moment, it consists only of this blog here, but hosted at our new site. This will be the last post for this blog.

From now on, you can catch all the Phamily happenings at the new website / blog - www.phamilynews.net. Thanks and see you over there!

Bravo! Bravo!

2010-08-23T19:43:00.005+12:00

Taliah has been taking guitar lessons from school once a week for the last couple of months. The first few weeks she was just getting the fingering and now has started playing tunes and songs. Well, still learning, I should say. But she is picking it up fairly quickly. We started her late and she was way behind the other kids in the class, but has caught up to them in the last 2 months. Here's a short vid of her practicing one of her songs....

ps - uncle Dennis and Ong would be proud of her!

pps - the conversion and compression of the video file made the sound quality horrible. Trust me, it sounds better live.

Clash!

2010-08-20T12:35:00.004+12:00

The Pham girls really need to work on their color matching! On the left is Taliah at about 3 yrs old. She decided to dress herself one day. Notice the colors - pink, blue, orange and green!

And on the right is Dariah, also at age 3 - she also dressed herself. Notice the same colors - green, orange, pink and blue! And notice the gumboots - they both love gumboots (rubber boots).

Hahaha, I love it! Yep, the Pham girls need to take some fashion classes!

WARNING - WARNING
You might want to wear sunglasses to look at these fotos! ;-)

Bronze Serpent of Numbers 21

2010-08-04T16:53:00.007+12:00

Just recently, I have been thinking about the passage in Numbers 21.4-9 where the children of Israel sinned against God by complaining - complained about Moses and God. God then disciplined them and struck them with a plague of serpents that bit the people. They then repent and ask for God's mercy and He tells Moses to make a 'fiery serpent' and put it on a pole. Moses obeys and makes a bronze serpent and mounts it on a pole. Any one who is bitten by a serpent only has to look at the bronze serpent on the pole and be healed and lived.

Have you ever thought about all the symbology that is associated with this serpent on the pole? Here is a list - no particular order, just some random musings...

1. Serpent - symbol of sin, evil, the curse.
2. Bronze - symbolizes judgment, fire - sin, evil judged.
3. Lifted up on a pole - Jesus lifted up on the Cross.
4. Wasn’t placed in the tabernacle - not associated w/ the Law (Ten Commandments in the Holy of Holies).
5. None can make their own bronze serpent but must accept the one made for them - can't make our own way to heaven but must accept God's way - Jesus.
6. Personal; none could be saved by having friend, family, or others look to bronze serpent for them - salvation is personal, no one can do it for you.
7. Those bitten had to look in faith; medically, nothing about a bronze serpent on a pole can heal, but it is simply looking by faith and accepting what God says - salvation is simply by faith, believing God at his Word.
8. Anyone can look - from the young child to the most elderly - salvation is for all.
9. The one thing that killed them became the one thing that saved them - Jesus became sin (the one things that kills us) and through Jesus we are saved.

What a rich illustration of what God did through Jesus at the Cross to secure our salvation! Jesus said in John 3.14-16...

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Phamily Road-Trip - pt.2

2010-07-28T17:59:00.001+12:00

Here are a few more fotos from the road-trip. We took a little day trip to the Kauri Forest and then the Whangarei Falls...

(again, just click on the foto to see it full size)

Phamily Road-Trip - July 2010

2010-07-26T20:28:00.001+12:00

Here are a few pics from our road trip to Northern NZ a couple weeks ago. This was at a local beach in the Whangarei area. The kids had sooo much fun collecting seashells and just running up and down the beach. It was pretty cold (remember it's winter here) but they did go in the water - at least up to their thighs. (I think you can click on the foto below to see it full-size).

FAQ - World's Largest Gummi Bear

2010-07-23T23:16:00.004+12:00

Here's the follow-up video to the World's Largest Gummi Bear (see previous post below). FAQ - you asked, they answered, sort of...

World's Largest Gummi Bear

2010-07-23T23:00:00.004+12:00

Those who know me know that I love Gummi Bears. Well, this video makes my mouth water! And my blood sugar level spike just watching it! Seriously, this 5 lb Gummi Bear is equal to 1,400 (yes, 1,400) normal sized ones. And guess how many calories - 12,600!!!! That's like a week of calories for the average person!

Fear

2010-07-06T09:32:00.009+12:00

Why is it that we humans like to be scared, startled and frightened? I was playing hide-and-seek with the kids last night and they thought is was great fun for Daddy to hide in the dark somewhere and then pop out when they get close and yell 'ahhhhh'. Then they would all jump and scream and run and laugh and we would do it all over again! Literally for hours on end!

Or why is it that we like thrilling, suspenseful movies or books - where you are on the edge of your seat the whole time, your heart beating at 150 bpm with your hands covering your face. And the music that goes with those movies - you know the music which intensifies that suspense and fear and anticipation. And we love it! Just waiting in anticipation for that boogey-man or space alien to pop out of the woodwork so we can scream and laugh and pay $10-$15 to do it again next time!

We love the fear, the anticipation, the adrenaline. But why is it that we don't behave in the same way when it comes to God? Why don't we fear God more, respect Him more, be more in awe of Him? The Bible says that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Prov 1.7 - of course this is a slightly different 'fear' but nonetheless...). Or why doesn't the anticipation of Jesus' return keep us on the edge of our seats more? Or why doesn't the thought of heaven and being in God's presence for all eternity excite us more like it should?

Perhaps it is because we are too grown up? Maybe our faith should be like a child's? Oh well, I still enjoy a good suspenseful movie or book that keeps me on the edge of my seat. But I know I enjoy the 'real action' more. The one that has a happy ending. One which we already know...

And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. Rev 22.1-5

oops

2010-06-11T18:47:00.002+12:00

So apparently I missed a lesson in 'sewing 101'...it has been lovingly pointed out that Dariah's pattern is up-side down. I didn't notice it until I put them on her! So I will be paying closer attention next time I cut fabric! Thanks to those who looked that close (dad and J)!! :)

Cozy PJ's

2010-06-11T08:33:00.003+12:00

I found some polar fleece material on sale shortly after getting here so I went ahead and got enough to make PJs for the kids. When my sewing machine finally arrived I got to work!

It was a really simple pattern and each pair only took me about 4 hours total...minus any interuptions, of which there are always many :)!

These jammies are so warm that the kids don't have to double up on the pjs any more. They still need under shirts because the neck lines are too big, but I wanted to leave them room to grow!

Thanks Linda for teaching me how to sew! I love doing it!

A Jealous God?

2010-06-05T20:30:00.004+12:00

‘For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.’ Deut 4.24

‘…for you shall worship no other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God…’ Ex 34.14

Have you ever wondered - why is God (who is all good) a jealous God? When we think of jealousy, we usually think in the negative. For example we see in the movies that when a girl’s boyfriend talks to another girl, the girlfriend gets jealous.

So how can the Bible say that God is a jealous God? And even to go so far as to say that God’s name is Jealous!! The answer lies in the fact that there is a good jealousy. For instance, it is bad when a husband is jealous of his wife when she speaks to another man in a neutral, platonic manner. That harms the relationship; it gives the wife no freedom.

But there is also a good jealousy - the husband can expect his wife to treat him and only him as her husband (and vice versa). It is a unique relationship only allowed between them. Nothing and no one should come between them.

In a similar way, we can see how God can be a jealous God. He is jealous for us when we start treating anything or anyone else as ‘god’. It is a relationship that should only exist between us (the Bride) and Jesus (the Groom). That is the reason behind the passages that speak of God as a jealous God - Israel was worshiping other gods. It was idolatry!

And what about us? In what ways have we let things, situations or people take the place of the One and Only True God? What has become our ‘god’? Money, success, career? Relationships, family, spouse? Gifts, abilities? Ministry, vision? God is a jealous God - He wants us alone!

‘For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.’
2 Cor 11.2-4

Seek and Ye Shall Find...

2010-05-21T19:21:00.006+12:00

A few weeks ago, I had to go into the bank here in town to get myself added to the church checking account. The manager who helped me with all the paperwork and stuff was extremely nice, taking time out of her busy day to make sure I understood everything and got it all sorted out. During the whole process, we were chatting about why I was here - to pastor a fellowship in the city.

Then out of the blue, she asked me 'have you ever had a time when you doubted? And were searching for an answer?' I told her yes, of course, there was a time early in my Christian walk that I doubted. She then asked 'how did you get through that time? What kept you going?' I was able to explain to her that it was really Jesus and His Word that kept me going through that time. During that time of doubt and uncertainty, I read my Bible a lot and kept my thoughts and focus on Jesus. Her comment - 'I guess that works if you believe the Bible'. Yes, it does! I was able to explain to her a bit more about my faith and the Bible before we finished with all the paperwork and I had to leave.

Yesterday, I went back in to thank her again for her help and also give her a book that ministered to me during that time - Josh McDowell's More Than A Carpenter. I also told her to call me if she has any questions about the book or about faith or Christianity, and that she can come visit us at church (she lives just down the street from where we meet on Sundays).

So please pray for her to find her answer in Jesus. Pray that God will use the book to touch her heart. I plan on going back in a couple weeks to visit her and see how she's getting on with the book. Anyways, please pray for more divine appointments like this!

Are You Rejoicing In The Lord?

2010-05-15T09:43:00.005+12:00

This last Thurs I picked up our tubs/bins from the shipping company’s warehouse in Lower Hutt. These were the tubs we had sent from the USA and contained books, toys, clothes and kitchen stuff. After getting it home, we began to unpack and it was like Christmas all over again! You could hear the kids exclaiming - ohh, ahh, I forgot we packed that. Oh, I haven’t seen that in such a long time!

In actuality, it only has been less than 5 months - but I guess from a kid’s perspective, 5 months is a significant portion of their young lives! And it was so hard to keep them from trying to get into every tub/bin! And so they ran around the house playing with their ‘new’ toys and books and stuffed animals. We had dinner with a family from church that night and one of the first things out of their mouths was - ‘we got our boxes, finally!’ They were so excited they couldn’t help but tell others about it!

But as they (well, I guess WE all) were exclaiming our joy and excitement, it made me think - when was the last time I felt like this about spiritual things? (Ouch, that hurt Lord.) When was the last time I was exclaiming excitedly over a passage of the Bible that spoke to my heart? When was the last time I was sooo happy to comprehend that I had infinite spiritual blessings?

When was the last time I couldn’t wait to open the Bible to see what God had ‘packed’ inside? When was the last time I was so excited to use the spiritual truths that I had learned? When was the last time I exclaimed with joy about knowing God and couldn’t help but tell others about Him?

Now don’t get me wrong - excitement and emotion isn’t everything in the Christian life. But can’t it be said that we as ‘more mature’ believers have lost some of that freshness and excitement? I know I have in some areas.

‘Restore to me the joy of Your salvation’ - Ps 51.12
‘Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice!’ - Philp 4.4

Field Trip

2010-05-08T21:17:00.013+12:00

The kids have each had at least one field trip with school so far this year. Both of the older kids went to an art exhibit of sculptures set up in the Civic Gardens here in Lower Hutt. They enjoyed it so much that they asked to go back, so I took all four kids one afternoon before the exhibit left. When they went with their classes they only got to see a few of the sculptures so we spent more time and looked at everything. There were some really cool ones. All of them were made by New Zealand artists. It is my understanding that they do this this exhibit, with different sculptures of course, every year. It is
called 'Shapeshifters' and it is designed to be an outdoor exhibit. I will share a few of our favourites here...

This is a Norfolk Pine and the star is how the branches grow on the inside... pretty cool!

I believe this one was called 'peace'. It's hard to tell in this picture, but she is holding a dove. The sculpture is made of terra cotta.

This is a fern leaf made with plastic stretched back and forth over the grass. The fern is New Zealand's national symbol.

These were little glass flowers.

These were big glass flowers. Notice the caterpillar, also glass...

There were many more, too many to post here...

Te Papa

2010-04-23T14:00:00.008+12:00

I'll start posting with our visits to the National museum in Wellington called Te Papa. We've been there twice now, once on a Sunday afternoon and once during the school holidays. Admission is free so we only have to pay for parking. It is about 25 minutes away in downtown Wellington right on the water. We have only seen about 2 of the 4 floors. It is a very large, very nice museum. It is a fun place to go and hang out as a family, and there are lots of inter-active things for the kids to do.

Jesaiah's favorite part is the collosal squid. They show a 3D movie on how they caught it and then they have it preserved in a case on display.

They also have all the native animals stuffed and on display too, as well as the dinosaur fossils that have been found in NZ, which there are too many of.

It is probably one of the nicer musuems I've been too, and it's free! They do have certain exhibits that have an admission price, but you don't have to go to those.

We did go and see the one they had for the past couple of months, it was called "A Day in Pompeii". There was a 3D movie on the catasrophe and how it happened and then there were all sorts of artifacts and the body casts of people killed in the eruption. It was a very good exhibit, and the kids enjoyed learning about the volcano and how it affected Pompeii.

Stay Tuned...

2010-04-20T14:07:00.002+12:00

Ok. I have been really bad about posting anything on our blog! For that I am very sorry. I have several things I need/want to post, but can't just now. First of all I have to re-learn how to do everything (because it has been so long since I posted anything). So please bear with me and stay tuned, I am working on getting back into it!

What Do You Wanna Be When You Grow Up?!

2010-04-15T08:12:00.006+12:00

Some random things our kids said at the dinner table last night. Out of the mouth of babes...

Jesaiah - 'I wanna be a paleontologist when I grow up. Then I can travel all over the world and look for old things and draw them. And when I am done for the day, then I can be a missionary in that country.'

Taliah - 'I wanna be an author when I grow up, because I like to write and I can make up good stories.'

Zachy - 'I wanna be a worker and build things like Daddy and be a pastor and teach people who don't know Jesus.'

Dariah - 'When I grow up, I wanna play pink drums and be a spy. A good spy.'

So what do you wanna be when you grow up? I am still trying to figure out that question. I guess it helps if I would/could grow up, huh? Maybe in a few years or so. Or maybe never. ;-)

Bust-a-Move...

2010-03-27T16:25:00.006+13:00

Just some random fotos of the kids bustin' a move. Or striking a pose. I don't know if they are pretending to be wild animals (don't have to try too hard) or pretending to be Jedi masters. Or both. You pick.

PS - if the video or music stutters/skips, try playing it twice. The second time around it should have been buffered (loaded) to your web browser and should be smoother.

Wood, Wood, Wood...

2010-03-15T10:20:00.014+13:00

For those who wanted to see what 3 cords of wood looks like, here are a few fotos. It was a family affair getting all the wood sorted and stacked. At least we didn't have to split the wood ourselves, although some of the pieces might be too big for the wood stove. Becks got me a brand new hatchet for that - ooooh, new toy! Boys and their toys! ;-)

Kids wanted to help, so I put them to work.
Hey, if you wanna eat, you gotta work...

Don't know what that look was for.... she was the one who wanted to help!

Hmmm, which one is the lightest??

Stacking is hard work - time for afternoon tea!!

3 cords...

....of pine and nz macrocarpa (hardwood)....

....finally....

....stacked....

....and we're now ready for a Wellington winter!

Eye of the Storm

2010-03-13T11:57:00.005+13:00

Last night, we experienced what 'normal' storms can be like here in Wellington/Lower Hutt. I was at my desk, preparing for a meeting with the Children's Ministry team. I happened to glance out the window and thought 'hmm, it's getting pretty gray and windy. Must be a storm coming in'. A moment later I looked up again and the wind was literally howling and I thought to myself - 'uh, oh!!' I jumped up and started to run to the kitchen, yelling 'batten down the hatches!!!'

By the time I got to the kitchen (literally not more than 10 seconds later), it had turned into gale-strength winds and pouring rain (coming down almost sideways!). The doors and windows were slammin' and rattlin', there was stuff in our yard blowing around, trash cans toppled over, trees bent over almost in half, cows flying by mooing (ok, maybe trees and cow things are a bit much, but you get the idea). And then the power went out. Bummer.

And we still had 1 kid out in that storm. Zachy was at a friend's house a couple streets over. Just about then, the mom of his friend called and said they were just about to bring Zachy home when the power went out. And they couldn't get their car out of the garage because the garage door opener was dead without electricity. And it didn't seem to have a manual option to open it. Bummer. But another friend's mom was on her way home and brought Zachy home for us, so we wouldn't have to go out in the rain. Cool (we found out later that big branches had fallen on cars on the street where Zachy was!).

Anyways, the power stayed out for almost 4 hours, we had the Children's Ministry meeting by candlelight, flashlight and wood fire. Probably like the apostles did back in the day! Well, probably without the flashlights or the homemade scones (thanks Becks) or the tea. It was an awesome meeting - just getting to know the workers and sharing our heart with them and hearing them share their hearts. Cool.

Oh, and by the way, after the storm, this came out. Ahhh, what a great reminder of God's promises and faithfulness. It was right over our house. Double and triple cool....

Disobedience

2010-03-06T09:47:00.004+13:00

The word 'disobedience' means a 'failure or refusal to obey'. There seems to be two aspects - unintentional and intentional disobedience (just like all sin).

I was reading this morning in Deut. 1 (especially v2) about how long it took the children of Israel to travel from Horeb (another name for Mt. Sinai) to Kadesh Barnea (which is on the southern border to the Promised Land) - 11 days!

Now if you know your Biblical geography and history, you will know that this is basically the journey out of Egypt to the Promised Land. Amazing that it only took them 11 days (at least for this leg of the journey)! So theoretically, the people of Israel could have been in the Promised Land in less than 2 weeks from Mt. Sinai, or let's be generous and say less than a month (maybe they wanted to stop along the way to see the sights!!).

But what do we read in God's Word? It took them about 40 years to make that journey! What a contrast - a couple weeks compared to 40 years! And why did this happen? Disobedience. Remember from Num 13, 14 ad 15 that they sent the 12 spies into the Land. They came back and gave a report - wow, the land is awesome! But there are giants in the Land, we'll be crushed like grasshoppers! By doing this, they discouraged the people and nobody wanted to enter the Land, as God had commanded. Well, except for Joshua and Caleb.

Thus by their disobedience of God's command to enter and their hard-heartedness, they had to wander in the desert for 40 years, until that generation had all died away. Only their children were allowed to enter the Promised Land. This was intentional disobedience. They refused to obey. It was a heart attitude. That was what God was dealing with - not just their failure to obey, but their refusal to obey.

And I wonder how often we wander in the desert because of our disobedience? Whether intentional or unintentional. We make it hard on ourselves, we put ourselves out in the desert spiritually, just on the OTHER side of the Promised Land. So close, and yet so far. We break fellowship with God (not relationship, but fellowship). And we wonder - 'why God, is all this happening to me?' Now, of course I am not saying that ALL bad things in our lives happen because of disobedience. But some do.

So let's ask ourselves this. Are we wandering in a desert now? How long has it been? Is it because of disobedience? Other sins? Won't we come out of the desert and back to God and ask Him for forgiveness? And enter into the land of mercy, grace and joy. What a simple (and powerful) reminder this one verse in Deut. 1 is to us all.

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

2010-03-04T08:26:00.002+13:00

Hi all me Irish mates. In honor of St. Paddy's day, I did a little dance fer yer. Here it tis.

I found me pot o' gold!

No Zoning!

2010-02-26T21:26:00.004+13:00

Well we've been here almost a full month now and I am finally sitting down to blog somthing!

We are pretty much settled in at our house now. The major things are taken care of now. We have been so blessed! Now we are just waiting for the things that we shipped...which apparently haven't left American soil yet! Oh well, the Lord knows what we really need and we have those things already. The stuff in the boxes just make some things a bit easier...like cooking. But we are not going hungry, so I guess I'm doing alright without it!

I finally drove for the first time this week! That was fun! In thinking about driving on the left side I was concerned with keeping in the left lane...what never occured to me was that not only is the driver on the other side of the car but everything is reversed. My automatic reaction is to look up and to the right to see what's behind me, well the first time behind the wheel here when I wanted to see what was back there I panicked! I couldn't see anything!!! Well, anyone who's ever driven on the left is going "Duh!"...the mirror is up and to the left! So I am getting accustomed to it, and enjoying it! We got a car today so I will be driving a bit more now. I am thankful though for having the first few weeks to walk about town. I was able to get a feel for the flow of traffic, and be more comfortable with it.

We took a drive tonight with the kids to 'practice' a bit. It was the first time we've driven all together in one car. We came to the conclusion that we are not yet to the point where we can 'zone out' while driving. You all know you do it, thinking about other things while driving...I used to get to work in San Diego and not remember how I got there! (Scary I know) Well, rest assured, I'm FAR from that relaxed here when driving! I am at least comfortable though, not scared to death!

So enough about that...(those of you who know me know I love to drive so of course...) I am really thankful to be here. I know that this is right where God has put us and that is always exciting! I love the fellowship here, they are an awesome group of brothers and sisters and I look forward to getting to know everyone. God is so good!!

Life is Never Dull w/ Kids...

2010-02-22T16:06:00.006+13:00

I guess it has something to do with curiosity. We as adults don't think about some of the things that kids think about (thank God!). Like what would happen if you stick your finger where it shouldn't go?! Like the nose, ears, etc. In this case it was neither.

We finally were able to get bunk beds for the kids - up to now they had been sleeping on mattresses on the floor. And the first day that we had them, our 5-year old goes and does this...

He got his finger stuck in the metal support bar under one of the bunk beds, and was panicking because he couldn't get his finger out. And the harder he pulled, the more his finger swelled up and the more stuck it got! It's like those Chinese finger traps / tricks where you stick your index fingers from both hands into opposite ends of a cylinder and then try to get them back out again - the harder you pull, the more the cylinder tightens around your fingers!

After trying to twist his finger out (not off!) of the tubular bar, I finally had to get some liquid soap. After making him calm down and stop pulling, I put a drop on his finger and waited. Then we twisted his finger and it slid out easily. I think he learned his lesson and won't be sticking his finger where it doesn't belong...at least for this week!

Weet-Bix - YUM!

2010-02-20T09:43:00.009+13:00

I now have a new favorite food - I can't seem to eat enough of this stuff. It's called Weet-Bix (or WeetaBix in the USA & UK, I think) and was first made by an Aussie and a Kiwi. For those of you who don't know what it is (shame on you) it looks a lot like raw particle board. My wife says it tastes like it too! I totally disagree! It has a great taste.

I don't like sugary cereals, so this is perfect - it's 97% whole wheat, with a pinch of sugar. It comes in palm-sized 'biscuits' and you eat it with hot or cold milk, plain or you can add fruit, more sugar, etc. There are now even bite-sized versions, which our kids like because it comes with dry fruit mixed in already. If you haven't had any, you gotta go out and get some! Now! It's the bomb! ;-)

Particle board (finished)

Close-up of raw particle board (or is it Weet-Bix?!?)

Yummy!

Happy 8th, Taliah

2010-02-19T18:33:00.002+13:00

Here are some more random fotos. Some are of Taliah's 8th birthday - we had already done something in SoCal right before we left, but we also wanted to celebrate on her actual birthday too. So it was just a small quiet little breakfast for her, with a couple presents from the the Phamily.

Random 'ham'iness

Ham #2

Ham #3

Happy BD!

Our First Outing...

2010-02-16T21:59:00.011+13:00

Here are some fotos of our first outing in NZ. A family from the church took us to a model train park where the kids got to ride scale models of steam trains. This was next to the harbor, so since it was a hot day, the kids decided to go jump in the water for a bit. They loved it!

All Aboard!

Please keep your hands and legs in at all times!

Joe Cool in his sun hat.

Please no feeding the monkeys.

Daddy, I can't seeeeee.....

Like my white legs?!

Can't get these pants rolled any higher!

Hello? Can someone hold my hand?

I'd rather collect shells.

Video Tour - NZ Home

2010-02-13T22:08:00.003+13:00

Ok, as promised, here is the video tour of our new Kiwi style home here in Lower Hutt / Wellington. Enjoy the short vid. Oh, by the way, the rustling and whistling you hear in the background isn't because of the video. It was really windy outside - normal for this area. They compare Wellington to Chicago as the windy city. Notice the trees wavin' in the wind. ;-)

Fotos: Arrival in NZ

2010-02-13T15:12:00.001+13:00

As promised here are some fotos from the last 2 weeks. Enjoy...

Last day in SoCal - monkeys on a fence.

Landing in Fiji at 5 AM.
Huge answer to prayer - we had seats on the upper deck and could spread out. The upper level seats about 60 and there were only 20 of us!

Soooo happy to be off the plane!

Also happy to be home, in NZ.

Home, Sweet, Home (Kiwi-style).
We'll give ya a tour of the house in the next post...

Back Online Again...

2010-02-12T10:52:00.000+13:00

Hi all, we're finally back online again at home. YEAH! But we pay by how much we use so it's not flatrate usage like in USA or Germany. But we'll get used to it again. So DON'T send those huge files through email!! ;-)

We'll upload some pictures of the house, the kids' school, the church, the area, etc. when we get a little bit of a breather. We had a good 1st Sun and Wed and are really looking forward to getting to know the fellowship better. So thanks again for all your prayers and support - we truly can't do it without you all behind us. And keep praying for that car / minivan that God is preparing for us even now! ;-)

Speaking of cars - we are all getting used to cars being on the LEFT side of the road. We have to teach the kids (and ourselves!) all over again how to cross streets - they keep looking the wrong way. I was told that a tourist was killed last year when he/she walked in front of a car! And we have to remember that here cars have the right of way (or is that LEFT of way - hehe), not pedestrians (at least that was what I was told). That means cars don't stop for you - I have gotten some dirty looks already for forgetting this! Only in crosswalks do pedestrians have right of way. Even then, there are signs painted on the ground at crosswalks that say 'STOP LOOK LIVE' - very good advice!

Any ways, the next adventure will be DRIVING on the left side of the street! Oh, boy, I can foresee many interesting stories already!

Thanks for Praying! Please Continue...

2010-02-08T19:37:00.000+13:00

Thank you all for praying for us! We have a couple answers to prayer - the kids started school today. Jesaiah is in the 5th level, Taliah is in the 4th level and Zachy is in the 2nd level. They all loved the first day of school. So that is a huge relief for us that they love their school. But keep praying - let's see how it goes the rest of the week. ;-)

Thanks also for praying for the washing machine - that was a huge request and God answered mightily. A neighbor of a couple from the church gave us a used washing machine! For free! Whoohoo! Now we just need to get the right hoses to get it hooked up and going! That was another huge prayer request because our laundry will be piling up pretty soon here!

Lastly, pray for a car. We are still in the search. We kind of have to wait until all our finances comes thru from the USA and Germany, but we are already looking around. A couple people from church are helping us search, so that is already a blessing. So keep on praying! Maybe someone will GIVE us a mini-van out of the blue!!! ;-) Wouldn't that be something! With God all things are possible!

Please Pray...

2010-02-05T10:33:00.000+13:00

Hi all, just another quick post. Thanks for all your prayers so far. But continue to pray as we get settled in and get all the household stuff we need. We have mattresses for us all, and a fridge (awesome!). Now we need a washer, won't get a dryer yet - might not need one. Another big prayer request is a car/van. Pray that we can find an inexpensive one that will fit all of us.

We found a school and need to get the kids registered. Oh, please pray for Becks and Jesaiah - they both have allergies to something here and can't breathe properly. It could be the mold and dust in the house or it could be the different pollen in the air, or all of it! Please please pray for them. Pray for us as we meet the fellowship this Sun. Can't wait!

Finally Arrived in NZ

2010-02-04T16:11:00.000+13:00

Hi all, we just wanted to post really quickly that we made it to NZ in one piece. Actually had an awesome trip. Everything went super. We are getting settled in now, with much much help from our Kiwi friends who have been super nice. We will post more when we get internet at home. For now, just spread the word to all we know that we are safe and sound in NZ.

Ciao!

2010-02-01T12:24:00.000+13:00

Well, this will be the last post from SoCal for a while. We leave for the airport in a little bit. And won't get into NZ until 2 days later. Thanks everyone for all you've done for us. We'll keep you posted about Kiwi life once we get set up with Internet access. Love you all.

Dancin' Fools!

2010-01-31T05:58:00.001+13:00

Here's a final farewell dance for you all. In honor of the Winter Olympics. Bet you didn't know we were so talented. ;-)

How does Becks' crown stay on?!? And you like my hair?

A Day and a Half and Counting...

2010-01-31T05:33:00.000+13:00

We are down to the last phase of our move to New Zealand. Just a another day or so. Thank you all so much for your support (spiritually, emotionally, practically, financially) during this transition. We are so very blessed by you all - everyone, from the USA, Europe and New Zealand. We couldn't have done this without you all. God has used and is using you all in many ways.

We are looking forward to the next adventure that God has for us as a Phamily! Thanks again for joining us on this adventure! We'll post again after we get settled in and set up Internet access at home. Love you all!

Oh Ye of Little Faith...

2010-01-11T05:58:00.000+13:00

Well, once again I am humbled. I had written the previous post last Friday morning, just sharing a little of my thought process. I knew that deep down in my heart we are called to NZ and that had God shown us that clearly. But in the midst of waiting and the not knowing I allowed my flesh and the enemy to sow seeds of doubt and worry. But God is greater than that and has once again showed Himself strong on our behalf.

That very same Friday afternoon, I get a call from the NZ consulate in Santa Monica / Los Angeles, saying that our visas are approved and ready for pickup! At first I wasn't sure that I heard correctly, so I asked the lady to repeat it. And then I still didn't believe it and asked her if that was what she really meant - that our visas are approved and ready. 'Yes', she said, 'you can pick them up.' 'Still not believing, I asked a fourth time - 'were there any problems with the applications? Do you have any other questions for us?' Again the same answer, 'no, your visas are approved. You can pick them up next week.' (You have to remember that this is about 2-3 weeks earlier than we had expected. In fact, this same lady had said back in December that it was very unlikely that we would get the visas before the middle to the end of Jan.) So I thanked her and hung up the phone, feeling excited but at the same time truly humbled.

The Lord had seen my lack of faith and had mildly rebuked me. Twice. Once as I wrote in the previous post. And now with this. It was as if He were saying to me - don't you know that I can get your visas approved with just a single word from My mouth? Don't you think I can provide for you with just a simple wave of My almighty hand?

Well, I was reading this morning in Matt 8 and in v23-27 is the account of the disciples in a boat crossing the lake and the storm hits them and how afraid they were. During this, Jesus is sleeping peacefully. So they wake him up, fearful that they were sinking. He wakes up, says to them, 'Why are you fearful, oh you of little faith?' Then He shows His power and sovereignty and rebukes the wind and waves and the storm subsides.

Boy I am sure the disciples were not only amazed as we read in v27, but also humbled. Well maybe all except Peter. ;-) They had doubted, had worried, had feared - but the Lord showed Himself strong on their behalf. And that is how I felt also after hanging up the phone. Amazed but also humbled. Yes, active faith is still a learning process...

Learning Process...

2010-01-09T07:48:00.000+13:00

You would think that after having been on the mission field for almost 12 years, we (well, I) would have learned to trust God by now. But alas, it is a never-ending learning process. Over the last month or so, I have been having second thoughts, doubts, worries about moving to New Zealand. We were hoping to be there by the end of 2009, but as you know that didn't happen. The whole visa process is taking longer than we (I) expected (and hoped for). And so the thoughts keep running through my head - did I hear God correctly? Am I not spiritual enough? Did I sin against God in anyway? Am I our of His will? Is this really our calling? Did the Waltons really take too long to say goodnight (ok, that was just thrown in there to see if you were keeping up)?

Not only the whole visa thing got me thinking, but also our support is not up to where we need it to be. In the last 3 months, we only have been able to reach about 40% of our monthly budget through support. So when it is said that 'where God guides He provides' does that mean He is not guiding us to NZ??? So that caused more worries. And doubts. And questions.

But this morning I was doing my daily reading and in Genesis 21 God spoke to me. In v2 it states that 'Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him' (my emphasis). This spoke to me because God had a set time for the fulfillment of his promise to them. He is not early nor late. They had to wait 25 years to see the promise fulfilled, never knowing when exactly, but just continuing to go forward and trust that God will do it in His time and way. Hmm, I guess I can learn from father Abe.

And to rub it in (thanks Lord), I was also reading in Matt 6 this morning and He spoke again through v25-34 where Jesus teaches not to 'worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing...therefore do not worry....but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble' (my emphasis). Need I say more?!?

Ok, so I guess I need to learn all over again how to trust God, that He will keep His promises according to His plan. And that He will provide according to His ways. Thanks Lord, for the reminder. Are you allowing God to teach you today what it means to trust Him? In and for everything? Hard isn't it?

Merry CHRISTmas!

2009-12-24T11:53:00.000+13:00

Sorry it's been a while since we posted - just trying to finish the visa applications for New Zealand. That is done and all we can do is wait for them to process it. Anyways, have a Merry Merry CHRISTmas and an awesome New Year!

Oh, the kids and I had some fun the other day in the 'snow'. We filmed a video of it for you - enjoy...

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Happy Turkey Day to All!

2009-11-27T09:49:00.000+13:00

Just wanted to say thanks to family and friends - you are a blessing to us in your own unique way! Have an awesome Thanksgiving and enjoy time with your family and friends. Here's a foto of our turkey. Notice the pearly whites and great smile. ;-)

Hiyahhh!!

2009-11-21T18:08:00.000+13:00

(click foto to enlarge)

Three weeks ago, the three older kids have been doing karate at a local studio. The neat part about it is that it is a Christian run by Christians so they do not go into the whole spiritual side of martial arts. Well, I should say, they do go into the spiritual side, but from the Christian perspective.

The kids all have monthly memory verses they must learn and practice. In order to move onto the next belt or degree, they must not only be proficient in their karate moves, but also must show proficiency in the Word of God. And in their attitudes - they must show respect, courtesy, integrity, etc. Way cool. It's basically a discipleship program!

Too bad that we didn't start them sooner - they will only be in this program until we leave for NZ. Some of their friends have been in this program for years. But they are enjoying it tremendously. Thanks to the instructors at the studio for their care and love for the kids!

Happy Belated Veterans Day

2009-11-17T11:46:00.000+13:00

(click on images to enlarge)

Thanks to all the veterans who have served in the various wars. Thank you for standing up for me. As one of the 'boat people' from Vietnam, I am very grateful for the soldiers who fought in Vietnam. To be honest, without them I (and my family) most likely will still be back in communist Vietnam. So thanks!

This past week on Veteran's Day we went to the local Murrieta Vet's Day parade. One of the exhibits that caught my attention was the Field of Honor. This is a field next to the Murrieta public library that was decorated with 1200 US flags. Each flag was in honor of a regional veteran. It was a moving display. Again, thanks to all vets.

Here are a few fotos of the Field of Honor...

Jury Duty is Over...For the Next 12 Months

2009-11-14T07:54:00.000+13:00

Well, just to let you know, I finished jury duty this week. All in all I have to say it was a very interesting process (don't get me wrong, I'm not saying I would do it again anytime soon). I did get a chance to see part of the judicial process and I did learn a lot about legal terms. There were about 160 of us potential jurors the first day. That was whittled down to about 60 by the next 2 days. Then from those, 18 were picked as prospective jurors and questioned by the judge and lawyers (with the rest of us still sitting in with them and listening).

After this, the lawyers on both sides started excusing some of these prospective jurors, based upon the answers they gave or sometimes just on a gut feeling. So that reduced that group of 18 down to about 9 or so. So another 12 were picked from the larger group of 60 (well, minus the 18 already picked or excused) and questioned. So from this second 12, the lawyers picked enough to get 12 jurors and 2 alternate jurors. Technically there should be 3 alternates, but the judge had mercy on the rest of us and dismissed the rest of us. Otherwise another 12 would have been picked from those of us remaining, and from these 12 1 alternate would have been picked. Whew! All in all a very interesting week. Now it makes me want to read 'Twelve Angry Men' again. I read it back in high school for AP English and liked it. I think we even watched the old movie.

Oh by the way, for those who have been dying to know - I can talk about the charges now that I am not on the jury. It was 4 counts of alleged rape by a police officer in this county - some of the alleged victims are prostitutes. Very serious charges, hence the care in picking the right jurors.

Now it's Becks' turn at jury duty - she has been called.

Back in SoCal

2009-11-01T04:23:00.000+13:00

Hi all, we are back from Germany now and trying to get settled in to life here. And yes, we are trying to get over the jetlag - the kids start dropping off at around 5-6 PM (mostly because they wake up at 4-5 AM!!).

We will try to post more fotos and testimonies about the trip - it was a total blessing! It was soooo good to see good friends again, some we have known for almost 12-13 years now. Thanks to all who prayed for us during the trip. And thanks especially to the Romings who opened their home for us to stay the whole 2 and a half weeks - 4 adults and 9 kids (all under 10 years old) all in one house. And nary a problem! Wow, what a miracle!

I am scheduled for jury duty all of next week. And Becks is scheduled for jury duty all of the week after that. Welcome back to SoCal! Life never is dull, is it? I am kinda excited - never done jury duty before. We have been called before several times, but were living in Germany at the time so got out of it (but imagine the travel cost they would have had to reimburse us for if they insisted we show up!).

Anyways, we'll post more soon...

How's Your Chest?!

2009-10-04T06:50:00.000+13:00

As part of the visa application process for New Zealand, we have to get chest X-rays. I assume they want to make sure we don't have TB or any medical abnormalities. This past week, we got the reports back from the radiologist saying that our chests and spines look healthy and that there are no signs of TB or any abnormalities.

But what caught my attention and made me a little upset was this one phrase that was supposed to sum up the radiologist's findings...

For Becks he summarized - Impression: NORMAL chest.
For me he summarized - Impression: UNREMARKABLE chest!!!

Now wait a cotton-pickin' minute I thought! How come she gets a 'normal' chest and I get a 'unremarkable chest'!? I think my chest is AT LEAST normal! If not downright remarkable!

I guess I gotta get out the weights and work-out a bit. Maybe then I can be bumped up to a 'normal' chest. And perhaps one day, with lots of sweat, hard work (and steroids), I can move up to having a 'remarkable' chest! ;-)

LIke this guys below...

Where Do You Find Contentment?

2009-10-02T12:40:00.001+13:00

It's a question that we all face in life - maybe daily for some. Or back up a little and ask 'Am I even content? With who I am, what I have, where I am, what I am doing? Am I content??' Those are some tough questions - maybe easy to answer, but hard to live out. Because we are constantly bombarded by societal pressures that try to make us discontented!

We're not content with the way we look because Hollywood has convinced us that we would only be content if we look like a movie star or model. We're not content with what we have because advertisers have convinced us that in order to be content we NEED the latest and greatest. We're not content with what we are doing because we have been taught all our lives that we must achieve the American Dream - the big house in a suburban cul-de-sac with the white picket fence, 2 cars in the garage (1 sedan and 1 SUV), a dog and cat and 2.78 kids. So we strive and strive to achieve that illusive dream. But is that really contentment?

Paul in Philippians 4 gives us a few tips, pointers, principles (whatever you want to call them) on contentment. I'll just list them out here with the corresponding verses. I won't explain them much because I really want you to read those verses and let God speak to you. Let Him show you if you are content or not, and where you find your contentment. So here are the 3 principles that I see...

1. Contentment is independent of external circumstances and material things - Phil 4.11-12. Notice what Paul says - 'in whatever state' and 'everywhere and in all things'. Am I content ONLY when things go well or ONLY when I have all I need and want?

2. Contentment must be learned - Phil 4.11-12. It is not automatic nor does it come naturally to us. Twice Paul says it is learned or understood though experience or teaching.

3. Contentment is only 'in' the Lord Jesus - Phil 4.13. In the Greek the actual sentence goes like this- 'I can do all things IN [not through] Christ [or Him depending on which translation you use] who strengthens me.' Just remember with this verse - context, context, context. What does 'all things' mean? Can I flap my arms and fly if I recite this verse while flapping? Meditate on the 'all things IN Christ'.

What It Takes to Hear God's Voice

2009-09-16T07:07:00.001+12:00

This past Sunday, I had the privilege to teach all three services at our home church, Calvary Murrieta, while Pastor Brian was away. The message was from Matt 14.22-33, but it also included examples from our own lives and the whole process of us stepping out of the boat and leaving Germany and now stepping out of the boat again and heading off to New Zealand (God willing!).

So in a sense, it is our life story covering the last 2 years. The message is titled 'What It Takes to Hear God's Voice' and you can download it from the CCM website (just click here and then listen online or download the mp3). Enjoy and my prayer is that God will speak to you about your boat!

PS - thanks Brian for letting me share!

Here's Peter getting ready to walk on water with Jesus. That's how I feel sometimes! ;-)

Sweeeeet...

2009-09-12T16:29:00.000+12:00

While in New Zealand, I was invited to coffee at the local Starbucks. As I was paying for a gift mug for my wife, the young guy behind the counter comments to me after the transaction is finished - 'sweet as'. Now, the written word doesn't quite capture the Kiwi accent here, for the phrase 'sweet as' sounded like 'sweet a$$' to me! I almost grabbed the guy by the collar and asked - 'what did you say?!?!'. At the very least, I wanted to 'invite' him outside for a more private 'talk'!

Well, it turns out that the Kiwis say 'sweet as' like we would say 'sweeeet' or 'right on' - kinda like a positive affirmation or comment in the local vernacular. In other words, it's a Kiwi (maybe Ozzie too) idiom. And I think it probably stems from a phrase like 'sweet as sugar/honey, etc. Or maybe not. Who knows - all I know is that some kid at Starbucks in NZ almost got his clock cleaned. ;-)

Back in America

2009-09-11T04:04:00.000+12:00

Just got back from New Zealand, after a week-long scouting trip. I'll write more about it when i get more settled in, but in general, it was a good trip. I had lots of time with the pastor of CC Wellington and his wife - we had great talks and prayer times together. We seemed to be on the same page in most things, which is good considering we are planning to continue where they will leave off in the ministry.

Anyways, I'll post more (maybe ;-) ) when I get a chance. But here are a few fotos from New Zealand. I 'stitched' together 7 fotos to get this panorama of Wellington from the top of the highest point in the Wellington area. It's almost a 270 degree view of the city, harbor and surrounding areas. Click on the foto to get a larger view. It works best if you can load (first, right-click and 'save as') the foto into your default foto viewer/editor and view it at 100% (much more detail!).

New Zealand, Here I Come...

2009-09-01T06:38:00.000+12:00

Well, tomorrow is the big day - I fly to New Zealand to check out if this is where God will take us next. Yet somehow I am not excited at all, actually am dreading it! Maybe I am too traveled out, considering we drove close to 7500 miles in the last 6-7 weeks. Or maybe it's because I am nervous about stepping out of the boat once again. Or maybe it's because it's not of God? Or maybe I simply lack faith?

Whatever the case, I am dreading it. Weird. Really weird. I normally am challenged by new experiences, especially traveling to new lands. It doesn't faze me. But this time, it's like - blah. Oh well, I gotta go now. ;-)

Please pray for me/us. Pray for concrete confirmation, for the leading of the Spirit. Pray also for Becks as she is alone with all 4 kids. And they just started school, homeschooling, sports, etc. this past week. Thanks

Girls Found!

2009-08-29T03:29:00.000+12:00

Well, the missing girls have been found! I have no details other than that they are found. The prelimenary report seems to be that they 'had ran away'. They were gone for almost a week. Continue to pray for them and their family and friends as they deal with this situation. And thanks for praying!

Missing Girls

2009-08-28T04:54:00.000+12:00

Hi all, please pray for these girls, their families and friends. They have been missing since Friday, Aug 21. One of the girls (or maybe both, I am not so sure) goes / went to the Calvary Murrieta Christian school. It is hard to believe that this can happen in a place such as Murrieta/Temecula. But I guess nowhere is really safe anymore.

If you see anything, hear anything, know anything, please contact the Riverside County Sheriff's Dept. The contact number is on the flyer - click the foto to enlarge it. And please pray and post this to your fb, blog, website, etc. Time is of the utmost essence in such cases.

No Criminal Record

2009-08-26T02:45:00.000+12:00

Well, the long wait is over. The results from the FBI background check came in the mail while we were on our road-trip. And the outcome? NO CRIMINAL RECORD. Now that the anxiety and apprehension is over, it 's kind of anti-climatic. I was kinda hoping to have at least SOMETHING on my rap sheet to post about. But boring as I am, I have no criminal record. Well, let me put it this way - I have no criminal record that the FBI knows about. Now, it doesn't mean that I DIDN'T participate in any criminal activity - it just means I wasn't caught! And it doesn't mean I am not a horrible sinner! Just one saved by grace. ;-)

Happy Birthday Jesaiah!

2009-08-25T03:24:00.001+12:00

Wow, we can't believe Jesaiah is 9 yrs old! Happy birthday young man! Or young whipper/snapper - whatever fits better. Here's a walk down memory lane...

I hate cameras!

Coffee. I need cooffeeee

Like my new hairdo?

Kindergarten

Almost 9!

The Mother of All Road-trips!

2009-08-21T07:29:00.000+12:00

Hey sorry we haven't posted much in the last few weeks. We have been on a couple of major road-trips. First, we drove to northern Cali to go camping with friends. One day after that, we piled the kids in the van and drove to Oklahoma to visit Becks' family. That was already almost 4,000 miles (6400 km) for both trips. Then two weeks after the Oklahoma trip, we climbed into the car again and are doing another 3,500 mile (5600 km) round-trip excursion! I think the kids are really tired of sitting in the car - I know I am! Anyways, we'll get more posts and fotos about the trips up when we get back. We're still on the last road-trip, but are on our last leg of it.

FBI Background Check!?!

2009-08-08T10:10:00.000+12:00

As part of our visa application for New Zealand, we have to have a police background check done for both me and Becks. Never having had this done before, nor ever having the need for it, I had no idea what that meant. I researched it, and found out that it is actually done through the FBI - yes, that's right, we're talking about the Federal Bureau of Investigation! When I think of the FBI, I think of crime-fighting agents who go after mobsters, gangsters; I think of the Witness Protection Program. I think of 'America's Most Wanted' and of weird creepy aliens (i.e. X-Files). The word 'missionary' doesn't quite come to mind when I think of the criminals that the FBI goes after!

So to have them do a background check on me was kinda unnerving. I spent a whole night thinking - ok, what have I done in my past? Was there anything that I did before I became a Christian that might show up on a background check? Have to admit, I didn't get much sleep that night! Not that I could remember anything, but just the fact that they're checking my background!

Anyways, we had to go to the local police station (a first for us - never been inside a police station) and get our fingerprints taken (also, a first). I have to admit I was a bit nervous - I kept thinking the whole time that I would look up on their bulletin board and see my mugshot and the words 'WANTED' stamped in red across my forehead. Alas, that wasn't the case, thank God!

So now the fingerprints are taken, have been sent to the FBI and now we wait. Oh how I hate waiting, especially for something like this....

PS - all info from our fingerprint foto above has been removed, and the prints themselves have been blurred. To protect the identity of the innocent. ;-)

Find Your Purpose in Life in About 20 Minutes?!?!?

2009-07-25T11:52:00.000+12:00

That title caught my eye today as I opened my browser to look up a few things online. It got me thinking (and yes, it did hurt, the thinking part I mean) about this topic again, especially since this is exactly what God was revealing to me over the last 2-3 months. Now you have to remember, that article above is from a worldly perspective, so I can't make any claims for it. If you want to read the whole article, follow this link. Basically the author purports that you can discover your life purpose by taking a sheet of paper, clearing your mind, writing down some short phrases that pop into your mind. Do this until a phrase makes you cry - this will be your purpose in life! Of course this seems very simplistic and idealistic and just downright hinky to me (and yes, 'hinky' is a word - look it up)! I am not saying it can't work, I just have my doubts as to its validity.

In any case, it got me to thinking about what my purpose in life is, or my calling as we believers will often say. What is my calling? What's yours? Do you know? Do you even WANT to know? Do you even care?!

For me it has been a 12-year process of God showing me step by step and piece by piece - much longer than 20 minutes! Of course I am not saying that it will take you 12 years to find out, but I think it will be a bit longer than 20 minutes. ;-)

Anyways, the two verses that made my calling and gifting clear to me are 1 Cor 3.5-8 and Titus 1.5. In that passage in 1 Cor 3, Paul writes to the Corinthians - 'I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.' Then in Titus, he writes to him - 'For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you'. And that is the main focus for me/us in our ministry - not to plant churches or pioneer ministries like Paul. But to come in after someone like Paul and to water and set in order the things that are lacking, like Apollos or Timothy or Titus.

Now I have to admit, it was hard at first to accept. I wanted to be the Paul, the pioneer, the church-planter. Or at least try that out. But the more I prayed about it, the more it was obvious that it was mostly my flesh - I wanted the recognition, the fame. I wanted my name to be lifted up on high and admired. Being an Apollos or Titus or Timothy, your name is often just listed along with others. And that convicted me and humbled me - I wanted my name to be more recognized than the Lord's?!?! Wow, such fleshly pride! Who am I anyways, but an empty vessel for Him to use!

So now I am content and even excited to get a clear answer as to my/our calling in ministry and in life. And as I look back at the last 13 years of ministry, that is exactly how God has used and is using us. First in Germany, taking over as pastor of CC Freiburg, then while in SoCal, taking over as pastor in the Spanish Ministry here at CC Murrieta. And now, as we are taking steps to move to New Zealand and to take over a Calvary that was planted 5 years ago. I'll share more about New Zealand in the next post, but let me end with the rest of the passage from 1 Cor 3...

So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor (v7-8, my emphasis).

to be continued...

Rolling Trusses and Rolling Thunder

2009-07-21T12:46:00.000+12:00

While we were visiting Becks' family in Oklahoma, I got the chance to help her dad do a room addition to their house. It was a pretty good size room - almost 500 sq. ft. It was fun - this was the first time I did trusses so it was good to learn from a couple experienced guys how to stand/roll trusses.

And all this in some pretty intense weather - there were days when it was about 103 F, in the shade. Add the humidty and the heat index went up to 110 F. On top of that, working on the roof, in direct sunlight, with the sheet metal roof reflecting everything back in your face, it was probably close to 115-120 F! I could only work until about 11.00-12.00 before it got way to hot and humid. And of course, it being thundersttorm season in Oklahoma, we had to come inside whenever it stormed. Which then made it even more humid afterwards!

Anyways, it was fun, and challenging, especially crawling around on the trusses and slats 18 ft up above the ground (almost 2 stories high!). Doesn't sound very high until you're up there looking down! Here are a few pics...

Grand Canyon

2009-07-19T11:25:00.000+12:00

On our way back from Oklahoma, we stopped by the Grand Canyon, saw the sights and had lunch there. It was the first time for the kids to see this awesome wonder. They were all oohhing and aahhhing over the whole panorama. It truly is amazing to think that all God has to do is speak and things, anything, even the Grand Canyon can come into being. Imagine the power of God!

Anyways, here are a few fotos - maybe next time we can stay longer and visit some of the other sights at the Grand Canyon.

Fishing near Mammoth

2009-07-12T06:00:00.000+12:00

Here are a few pics from our fishing trip up near Mammoth. We spent 4 days with Jesaiah's godparents (the Nielsens) up near Mammoth Lakes, camping and fishing. We all had a great time, even when we didn't catch so many fish! But there was enough for one night of grilled trout! I don't normally like fish, but that wasn't so bad. I could probably eat trout again...when there isn't anything else to eat. ;-)

Camping with the Spanish Fellowship

2009-07-12T05:25:00.000+12:00

As promised, here are the pics from the camp-out we did with the Spanish Ministry back in the third week of June. We had so much fun - climbing, eating, running, eating, playing games, eating, fellowshipping, eating, singing, eating, studying the Word, eating, laughing and oh, did I mention, eating lots and lots of Mexican food!? In fact, the owner of the ranch where we camped slaughtered one of his sheep (or was it goats?) for us and BBQ'ed it up really nice. Best meat I ever had! Ummmmm! We truly had a blast with the fellowship and just wanted to share a few of the memories.

Kiwi...But Not the Fruit

2009-06-25T15:54:00.000+12:00

Just a quick update on our next mission, just in case you are wondering about any new news. Well, nothing concrete, but there is currently an open door in New Zealand. There is a Calvary Chapel there that was started about 5 years ago and now the pastor and his wife feel led by the Lord to hand the church over and move on. But at the moment, it doesn't seem like there is anyone from within that church who is ready to lead it.

I met with the pastor when he was here in Socal a few weeks ago and it seems like this could be an open door for us. I don't have all the details as of yet, but we will keep you updated. We are trying to set up a short visit to New Zealand in Sept to visit the church and see how the Lord will lead. So be praying for us. Pray that if this is from the Lord, then the door will remain open. Pray for provision for the trip to New Zealand. Pray for confirmation. We trust that God will bring everything together in His time and way. Thanks!

Budding Gymnast / Dancer

2009-06-16T12:09:00.000+12:00

Our youngest, Dariah has taken to dancing and tumbling and just generally being her normal hammy self. Here she is doing one of her 'dances' for us. Sit back and watch her dance up a storm. Oh, and don't miss the 'deleted scenes' after the closing credits. ;-) Her 'Hamminess' is at it again...

Liz the Lizard

2009-05-27T17:10:00.000+12:00

This past weekend, the kids found a lizard crawling/sitting on the side of the house. The boys were too scared to catch it, so Taliah grabbed it. She was soooo excited that she actually caught it and that it wasn't as gross and 'slimy' and icky as it seemed (I don't know if I would have grabbed it like that ;-), hehe). In any case, Becks and Taliah went out and got a terrarium and Taliah got to name the lizard. She calls it Liz (hopefully it's not a 'he' and won't get offended). Well, we knew Taliah is the tomboy of the family - she loves climbing trees, catching bugs and now lizards. She is usually the first one to try new things - a little adventuress! In fact she takes after her godmother - Auntie Lia!

Anyways, the kids have been catching ants, earwigs, flies and roly-poly's (pill bugs) to feed the lizard. And today we went to the pet store and got some meal worms and crickets as a special treat for little ole Liz.

Snagged! Aint't he cuddly?!?!
NOT!

Sooo excited!

Home Sweet Home

Liz the (hopefully female) Lizard

Science Phun

2009-05-20T06:57:00.000+12:00

This past week, Jesaiah and Taliah had to present their science research projects at the school science fair. Jesaiah did his research on 'friction' - what it is, how it works, what has more friction, etc. And Taliah did hers on the 'surface tension of water' - again, what it is, how it works and how you can see it. I got the opportunity to help them with this - science is right up my alley! I have to admit it was really fun - i enjoy science a lot. Anyways, they did really well on their research and the teachers (and other students) were impressed with their work. And it was fun to see the projects from the other kids at the school - there were some truly impressive ones!

So, here are a few fotos of Jesaiah and Taliah doing their research...

Talk about 'sticky' rice!

What has more friction - smooth plastic, rubber or sandpaper??

Fill 'er up!

My cup runneth over!

Cutting water?!

Finished products...

and Taliah's

Random...'hey take my picture too Daddy!'
Zachie and his 'sleeping-bag'.

'Me too' says Dariah, 'look what I can do!'

Father and Son Getaway

2009-05-05T14:08:00.000+12:00

This last weekend, Jesaiah and I got away for a quick overnight camping trip to Joshua Tree National Park in the desert beyond Palm Springs. It was a great trip, just Jesaiah and I - we were able to do many fun things. On the first day, we saw 2 rattlesnakes, not more than 3 feet from our path. On the second day, we saw another snake as we were in a cactus garden, again not more than a couple feet from us. It's spring, so the reptiles are out in force to mate and enjoy the warmth.

We were also able to do some rock-climbing - Jesaiah surprised himself by climbing a rock that was over 2 stories high (20 feet or so up). He didn't think he could do it, but with a little exhortation and guidance, he easily climbed to the top and even more impressive, climbed back down (much harder!). We also did a lot of bouldering on some smaller and shorter boulders - lots of fun! We both loved that!

We also visited a huge Cholla (not chollo) cactus garden, a rock that has been wind-blasted into the shape of a skull, drove to the highest viewpoint in the park to look down into the Coachella Valley, hiked 4 miles round-trip to an original goldmine - all this and much more crammed into a day and a half!

But my favorite part and the main reason for this trip was to give Jesaiah undivided time for conversations. We spent about 4 hours sitting around the fire-pit, splitting wood for kindling, making the fire and roasting hot dogs, corn and marshmallows - all the while talking about anything and everything - both fun stuff and more 'meaning of life' topics.. Jesaiah learned a very practical spiritual lesson from the embers and coals. He saw that when he takes a red-hot ember out of the bed of coals, it soon dies down and turns black and cold. He learned that all believers 'burn' hotter when they stay together, but when they try to go it alone, they soon burn out and turn cold. He applied that to 2 of his friends from school who are Christians, but don't go to church and don't 'act like Christians' (his words). And we prayed for them on the spot!

All in all, it was a great trip!

'...among the nations...among all peoples'

2009-04-28T12:06:00.000+12:00

Well, it's been a while since we posted - sorry. Life has just gotten faster and faster these days. Anyways, just a quick note to update you all on the trip to Europe and Africa last month. As you know I was able to visit a couple we sent out (from CCFreiburg) to Luxembourg to start a bible study. They are doing well and it was great to see their fist child also - he's a cutie! I stayed there overnight and then headed down to the border between Germany and Switzerland to visit my godchild and her family.

Again, I stayed there overnight and then took another train to Freiburg to visit the church I used to pastor. It was a great time seeing all the people there, but more importantly, it was awesome to see what God is continuing to do in the fellowship through the current pastor. For me, it was confirmation that we heard God correctly and made the right choices. And it was funny/weird - I thought being in Freiburg would make me miss living there, but in actuality, it didn't - another sign that that is not our 'home' anymore. Of course, we miss the people and the ministry there, but we also know that God is finished with us there.

And that is why I also visited Cape Town, South Africa - to see what the needs are and to just seek the Lord about the possibility of serving Him in Africa. The pastor of Calvary Chapel Cape Town and his wife were gracious hosts and answered many questions, showed me the town a bit and explained their vision for their city. It was awesome to just get to know them and their 2 daughters, and to see what the Lord is doing in their fellowship and their city. In any case, I was hoping God would make it clear one way or another if our next missions journey would take us to South Africa, but alas, I didn't get a clear answer.

I did, however, get confirmation that we ARE to go back out on the foreign mission field - that was something we weren't 100% sure about either. We were ready to go back out, but we were also ready to stay in the USA and serve here - whatever the Lord wanted. But on this trip, the Lord spoke to me through Psalm 96, especially verses 2-3 -

'Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.'

It just burdened me once again to go and to proclaim the good news AMONG the nations and AMONG the peoples. I have to admit, we were beginning to get a little too 'comfortable' in SoCal, so this was just a timely reminder to what we as a Phamily are called to. So pray with us and for us, as we continue to seek the Lord about where, and of course when and what exactly!

PS - I will have to one day find time (right...) to share a little more about Cape Town - it's a wonderful city. I loved it there.

Just some randomness

2009-03-29T15:08:00.000+13:00

Ok, so while I'm at it I'll put up some random pictures too :-). These are just some pictures from different things over the last couple of months, and for anyone who's interested, some of the cakes I've made in the last couple of months

Pictures...finally!

2009-03-29T13:12:00.000+13:00

It has been way too long since I've posted anything here....sorry about that! Facebook has sucked me in, and even there I don't do a whole lot!
I just wanted to post some pictures of the time the kids and I had with visitors while Davey was gone to Germany and South Africa (which was a great trip, but I'll let him post on that another time ;-) ).
We had a great time with the girls while they were here...while everyone was healthy at least ;-).
We spent a day in San Diego and then a day at the Santa Rosa Plateau, which is a nature preserve about 20 minutes from our house, it is really beautiful up there!
So here are the pictures:

Duuuude...

2009-02-28T13:29:00.000+13:00

Well, it was bound to happen. I knew that when we moved back to SoCal that eventually, something like this was going to happen. It was inevitable. I was just hoping that it wouldn't happen so soon, I mean, we have only been here 7 months or so. But it did happen this past week. The unthinkable, inevitable.

A co-worker and I were in the company truck on our way to work late one night (yes I worked nights this whole past week. But that's a story for another post). Anyways, we were driving to the job-site, just chatting (can't remember what about though), nothing special. And then suddenly out of nowhere, it happened........the words 'dude' and 'man' and 'cool' slipped out of my mouth. All in ONE sentence (as in 'duuude, that was like totally cool, man')! I haven't used the word 'dude' in that context like in 10 years! And in combo with 'cool' and 'man' - not since...well, I can't remember when! AHHH, the SoCal surfer/skater vernacular had slipped back into my life!

When I realized what had just happened, I was hit with shock at first and then embarrassment. Out of the corner of my eyes, I furtively glanced over at my co-worker to see if he noticed anything strange in what I just said. He didn't. And he's even from Nevada. So it was all good. We got to the job-site ( I didn't say much else during the rest of the night - too fearful of what I might say next!), did our job and got home again without another 'duuuude' slipping past my lips. Now I just have to watch out for 'rad, awwwesomme, fer sher, sweeeeet, gnarly' and other forms of verbal coolness. ;-)

Riverside County Fair and Date Festival

2009-02-15T17:05:00.000+13:00

This past week, our company serviced the kitchen fire suppresion systems and fire extinguishers on the food trailers at the Riverside County Fair and Date Festival in Indio, out in the desert past Palm Springs. It was a lot of fun learning how to service the fire suppression systems installed in these kitchen on wheels. But it was a lot of work - we worked 12-13 hours a day for 3 days straight to get all the food vendors' trailer kitchens serviced, cleaned and upgraded before the fair opened. And man, it is amazing (and sick)to see how much grease gets collected up in the hoods and ducts over the professional-grade deep-fryers, griddles and gas burners! I am talking literally an inch thick of hardened grease, fat and oil that you have to chip off in chunks as big as Oreos (and it's black like Oreos too)!

And speaking of Oreos, I serviced a trailer known as Chicken Charlie's - this guy is famous for deep-frying just about anything. Like Oreos, Pop-Tarts, cheesecake, frog legs, White Castle sliders, s'mores, peanutbutter sandwiches, watermelons, Twinkles (umm, that sounds good!), assorted veggies (my favorite - cored zucchini with a hotdog stuck in the middle, then dipped in batter and deep-fried - sounds good).

And one of the most interesting concoctions he invented - deep-fried Coca-Cola! How the heck do you do that!?!?! Well, he mixes Coke syrup with a bit of flour, deep-fries it, then tops it off with more Coke syrup and powdered sugar! Talk about sweet! But it makes me really want to try it, being a Coke lover and all. ;-) He ain't called the Deep Fry King for nothin'!

PS - Here's a short video from YouTube of Chicken Charlie fryin' up some Pop-Tarts! That looks really yummy!

Wie Geht's or Como Esta??

2009-02-06T05:31:00.000+13:00

This past Sunday in the Spanish Fellowship, I met a couple who had lived in Germany for a long time. And we spoke in German!! That was the first time I got to speak in German for an extended time. Wow, my German is rusty - I had to really concentrate to find the right words. Anyways, they are a neat couple - she is Mexican and speaks English, Spanish, German and he is African-American and speaks English and German. I am praying that they will come back this Sunday so we could speak in German a bit more. ;-)

Quinceañera

2009-02-03T17:07:00.000+13:00

Quinceañera is the Latin American (or mostly Mexican - I am not so sure exactly) party for a girl who is turning 15 years old. Technically the party is called 'Quinceaños' which literally means '15 years', while the girl turning 15 is called 'la Quinceañera'. It is kind of like a Sweet Sixteen party in American culture or a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in Jewish culture.

It is a festival marking the end of the girl's childhood and her beginning as a young woman - she cease to be 'la niña' and becomes 'la señorita'. In Catholic tradition, it is also the time when the young lady dedicates her life to God (and even to the Virgin Mary I heard). Over the years, Christians have changed it a bit so that the young girl dedicates her future to the Lord Jesus. Usually it starts with a service (Mass for Catholics) - the priest/pastor gives a message, then the young lady dances a Waltz with her male companion. All in all a very touching time.

This last weekend, I got the chance to 'officiate' at my first Quinceañera - to give the message exhorting the young lady to become the woman that God has called her to be and to follow the Lord Jesus wherever He leads her. Also to pray for her at the end of the evening. The young lady is the godchild of a couple in the Spanish Fellowship and she is a neat young girl. She accepted the Lord about 3 years ago and already feels called to become a missionary in Africa (coincidence??). Anyways, we really enjoyed learning the traditions of the Mexican culture, getting to know members of the Spanish Fellowship better and seeing this young lady dedicate her life to Jesus. Oh yeah, and we ate LOTS of authentic Mexican food. I mean LOTS. And real stuff - not Taco Bell or Green Burrito stuff - but food made by real Mexican ladies in their homes! Ummmmmmhhh.

PS - pray for some of the young lady's family and friends who don't know Jesus as Lord. I preached on Romans 1.16 - where Paul says he is not ashamed of the Gospel for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes. Pray that the seeds planted will take root.

Muede....

2009-01-20T05:33:00.000+13:00

Ok, David hat schon was geschrieben, er war schneller :-). Ich versuche dies auf Deutsch zu schreiben, bitte entschuldige die fehlern!

Wie David sagte, wir sind sehr beschaeftigt. Ich arbeite 2 teil-zeit Jobs aber die sind wirklich mini. Eine mache ich in der Germeinde, ich putze Abends in der Schule dort und der andere ist nur ab und zu am Wochenende spaet abends oder frueh morgens, wir zaehlen Ware in geschaeften (Warenbestand ?). Beide Jobs machen mir spass, aber ich bin es nicht gewohnt Abends immer weg zu sein. Ich bin aber wirklich froh wie Gott das alles organisiert, dass David hier bei der Kinder sein kann. Ich werde ab jetzt nure 2 Tage der Woche in die Gemeinde arbeiten und wahrscheinlich 1 oder 2 Mal im Monate Inventur machen, so das geht.

Das Leben heir ist einfach hectisch! Mann faehrt so viel dass die Zeit einfach vergeht. Manche Tage bin ich kaum zu Hause weil ich so viel Fahrerei machen muss! Ich lerne meine Tage anders zu organizere.

David macht 2 vollzeit Jobs. Er arbeitet jeden Tag 8 stunde, manchmal mehr und er lehrt Mittwochabends und Sonntag Morgens PLUS er hat die Kinder 2-3 Abende wo er die alle Abendessen geben muss und ins Bett bringen muss. Er macht wirklich viel, ich habe einen amazing Mann!

Aber zwischen durch machen wir Zeit dinge als Familie zu machen. Wir besuchen die Grosseltern ein oder zwei Mal die Monat. Wir fahren oft im Zoo oder Wild Animal Park. Wir gehen auf dem Spielplatz und Freunde dort zutreffen. Wir gehen im Museum um Neues zu sehen und lernen. Ich mag es dass wir 2 Mal die Woche Schule zu Hause haben, es ist schoen die Zeit mit den Kindern zu haben und sehen wie sie lernen und helfen dabei zu.

Ich will oefter posten...ich hoffe dass ich es schaffen kann :-). und ich werde auch das gern auf Deutsch machen. (es ist gute Uebung fuer mich).

So bis zum naechsten Mal!

Random Fotos

2009-01-18T11:31:00.000+13:00

Hi all, it's been a while since we uploaded fotos of the kids. So here are just a bunch of them, all pretty much random. They are of Zachy's birthday at that end of Nov, when he got a skateboard. Then a few fotos of the kids trying out the skateboard a week later. Other fotos of Christmas, of Zachy's Christmas musical (where he was dressed up as one of the three wise men) and of whatever else happens to be on our camera! ;-)

PS - you can turn on the captions for the fotos by clicking on the speech balloon at the bottom left of the fotos.

Our Humblest Apologies

2009-01-11T12:43:00.001+13:00

Hi all, I wanted to apologize to all those who are trying to stay up to date with the happenings of the Phamily through our blog. You might have noticed it hasn't been updated on a regular basis in the last few months. Or at least not as often as we used to. As you know life has taken a turn for the busier lately - Becks works 2 part-time jobs outside the home and homeschools the kids as well as being a mom and wife.

I work a full-time job and lead/pastor the Spanish fellowship at our church, as well as being a 'house-husband' on the nights that Becks is working. So obviously, we don't sit down at the computer much anymore. And when I do, it is to prepare Sunday and Wednesday messages/teachings for the Spanish fellowship. So please forgive us for not posting more often, for not returning emails quicker and for not answering on Skype or whatever. Life happens! And for us at a faster pace than before. Thanks for understanding and still being our friends. ;-)

PS - you can still check us out on Facebook, we don't update too often except to maybe change our status. And of course you can still visit the blog, we will do our best to keep that updated with news.

Prospero Ano Nuevo!

2008-12-31T16:22:00.000+13:00

Well, I hope you all had a much better and healthier Christmas than we did - we were hit with the stomach flu. All of us, in one form or another. I think I got away with the lightest case of it - just an upset stomach and in bed a whole day. All the kids had the up-chucking and 3 of them had the runs also.

But we are all healthy now for the most part. And looking forward to a great New Year's Eve service - the Spanish Fellowship will bring in the New Year at our house. We'll have a potluck (yes, lots of authentic Mexican food made by real Mexican moms and cooks!!! woohoo!!). Then I'll share a short message, we'll do some worship and then bring in the New Year with prayer. And of course, there'll be lots of fellowship going on in between all of this. We are looking forward to tomorrow night (and not just because of the food ;-) hehe).

Anyways, we wish you all a great start in the New Year and may you all experience the joy, peace and grace of our Lord Jesus more this year than ever before! Feliz Ano Nuevo!

To All a Blessed CHRISTmas!

2008-12-26T12:02:00.000+13:00

I just got this song from the parents of my godchild in Germany. They are musicians and wrote this song based on the real meaning of CHRISTmas - Immanuel, God with us. The text is a summary of Luke 2 and Matthew 2, talking about Jesus the Son of God coming to earth as a little baby and how the shepherds left everything to come to worship Him and how the wise men from far away followed the star to Bethlehem to bring gifts to Him.

I normally am not the sentimental, mushy type around Christmas time, but this song truly touched my heart. It is a beautiful and artistic reminder of what Christmas is really about - Immanuel. Thanks Kaufmanns for this awesome song!

The fotos are of Becks's olive wood nativity set/collection - it's a tradition with us that I get her a new piece or two every Christmas (we've been collecting them for a few years as you can tell). They come from the Christmas market in Freiburg, Germany (thanks to Jacque for this year's piece!).

Enjoy the song (sorry the text is only in German, but read Luke 2 and Matthew 2 and you got the idea!).

How's My Witness?

2008-12-21T11:49:00.000+13:00

Last week, one of my co-workers said something that really got me thinking. He normally is out in the field installing fire sprinklers, but last week, he was working in the warehouse with me. We have never worked together before so this was the first time we spent anytime together. After working together all morning putting together metal warehouse racks/shelves that go up almost 3 stories high (yes, that was fun climbing up that high!), he turned to me that afternoon and said he's never worked with anyone like me before. My first thought was - 'uh-oh, what did I do? Did I do or say anything to offend him?'

I asked him what he meant and he answered - 'there is such a peace about you. I never worked with such a good man.' Obviously he hasn't seem me get upset at my kids yet ;-)! I laughed and said - 'I am not good, no one is good. I am a sinner, a bad man. BUT I have received the grace and forgiveness of God and that's why I have peace.' I went on to share the Gospel with him, just telling him about the grace of God that can change lives and bring peace into lives that were once in turmoil. His only response - 'yeah, all you guys (meaning Christians, I assume) seem to have peace and be at peace.' But before I could go further, we were interrupted and I never got the chance to talk to him that day again. And he's been out in the field again so I don't know when I'll see him again. Please pray for him - he's obviously been touched by God's Spirit.

In any case, what he said really made me think about my witness - so often I don't think I share the Gospel enough, but obviously something is getting through to people! This man noticed something different about me. In fact, that was almost exactly how I was introduced to true Christianity - it was though a co-worker 14 years ago who didn't have to share his faith verbally but simply by his actions, I had noticed something different about him. That opened the door for him to talk to me. And so it is with this man - by my actions (directly or indirectly, I don't know) he noticed something and that opened the doors for me to speak about my Savior Jesus.

So don't be discouraged if you don't seem to be sharing enough or that no one seems to notice your faith. Live full-on for Christ, do those things that please Him, be holy/set apart from the world and be ready in season and out, and He will open doors for you to witness for Him.

A Place Without Pain, Tears, Sorrow...

2008-12-14T08:51:00.000+13:00

First, we want to say sorry for not posting more often but life has gotten really busy for us here. Becks started working a second part-time job - she works as one of the janitors at church (besides still working for the inventory company). So between the two of us, we work every day of the week, plus homeschooling and ministry on top of that! But the Lord is faithful and has given us strength and endurance for this.

Anyways, I wanted to share a little bit about something that happened last week after service in the Spanish fellowship. During the service, one of the deacons got a call from the wife of a man who is dying of cancer. This deacon had been visiting this man weekly for the last 4 months or so. I went with him 3 weeks ago to visit the man. He has colon cancer and basically the doctors sent him home to die - they said the cancer was so bad that there was nothing they could do for him, except give him pain medication. So he has been dying slowly for the last 2 years. In any case, during service, the wife called and said he was really bad off and that he literally was breathing his last breaths.

So after service, I and 7 other people from the fellowship went over to the man's home to support his wife and family (he's got 2 daughters 10 and 12 I think). We simply prayed, shared some Bible verses and comforted them. Then the deacon who had been visiting weekly had it on his heart to preach a short message. Even though I didn't understand much of Spanish, I could truly see that the Spirit of God was upon him (this man truly has the gift of evangelism) and it was awesome to see God using him. And the fruit - one of the ladies present accepted the Lord with much tears and repenting. Just remember that all the people there are hard-core, traditional Catholics so this was truly a huge step for this lady. So praise God! We know that the angels in heaven are rejoicing over this one sinner who has repented and accepted the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

The man, we believe with all our hearts, is saved though. When he was able to talk months ago, the deacon had shared with him many times and he has accepted the Lord. And the wife also, we think, but can't be sure with her. Well, the day after we visited, last Monday, the man went home to be with the Lord. He is now in a much better place...

A place where 'God will wipe away every tear from [his] eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. ' Revelation 21.4

This was the first time I had been with someone who was so close to death, yet it truly was also a joyous occasion as we celebrated with the man as he stepped into the presence of His Lord and King, Jesus. I am reminded once again of the brevity of this life here on earth. And what a privilege we have to be called sons and daughters of the Most High God.

Of course we also mourn with his family as they will miss their husband, father, brother and friend. But we can comfort them with the fact that he will never know pain and sorrow and tears again. So please pray with us as we minister to this family. Pray for them - for comfort and healing but also for salvation for those who don't know Jesus. Pray that the Lord would use this death to bring new life into the lives of those left behind.

Wiggle-Butt

2008-11-30T09:07:00.000+13:00

Dariah has learned a new dance this past few months (not sure from where!) that has kept us laughing so hard, we almost pee our pants every time. It's a combination Hawaiian hula dance, belly dance and mosh pit slammin'. We just call it the wiggle-butt.

Here is just a small taste of what she can do. Notice how her hips seem to have a mind of their own - seems like she almost dislocates them with her rubberband-like moves! Doesn't it look like she's got invisible strings attached to both sides of her hips and that someone is yanking on them randomly?? And of course, she gets some encouragement from Taliah and Zachie Boy...

PS - turn up the sound to get the full effect.
PPS - click on the play button /arrow if it doesn't play automatically.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T05:30:00.000+13:00

We are off to my parents to celebrate Thanksgiving and my mom's birthday - just happens to fall on the same day this year! Pray that you all have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy the time with family, friends and whoever else!

And hey, I am thankful for all of you - thanks for your prayers, support, help, advice, encouragement, care and love! Love you all!

God Trusts Me?!?!

2008-11-22T22:31:00.001+13:00

From the previous post, I thought God was done speaking to me on that passage in Hebrews. But as I have been thinking about it a bit more these last few days, I think He's not done yet. In fact, I know it. Something else just 'occurred' to me...

When the author of Hebrews says 'the race that is set before us', it also implies that God has GIVEN us this race or this life, right? Or rather, that He has ENTRUSTED us with it. Ponder that for a moment. I did and it truly encouraged me. Think of it, God TRUSTS me enough with this life to live, with this race to run that He has set it before me - has given it to me, has entrusted it to me.

In Christianity today, aren't we so often bombarded by these haunting questions - 'do you trust God? Do you trust God with your salvation, life, finances, family, career, etc.? Where is your trust in God?' It is almost cliche-ish, isn't it? Of course I do, why do you have to keep asking me? Now then, doesn't it blow our minds to realize that God trusts us?!?

For example, my kids aren't quite old enough, but I can imagine one day entrusting my car to one of them to use (not that we have our own car at the moment). Imagine what they would feel like - 'wow, my dad trusts me with his car! He's gonna let me drive it!' They would be on cloud nine! Elated, excited (well, at least until they start paying for the gas themselves ;-) ). Simply by the fact that I set my car keys before them, saying to them - I trust you with what is mine.

Now turn that around and apply it in our relationship to our Heavenly Father. He trusts us enough to run this race that He gives it to us! He has set this race, this life before us, saying to us - 'go ahead, run the race, I trust you to run it well! Live the life I have created you for - I trust you with what is mine.' WOW! GOD, the Creator, the Almighty trusts me, a loser! Whooohooo!

How would that make you feel? Cool, huh? So don't worry too much that your trust in God isn't as strong as you would want it to be (or as strong as someone else's). Rest and rejoice in this - God trusts YOU, He's shown it already by giving you a race to run, a life to live, a faith to walk.

You Running YOUR Race?

2008-11-21T17:46:00.000+13:00

Have you ever read a passage of the Bible so many times it almost loses it's impact? And then one day you read it again and wow, it hits you hard! Like a sledgehammer against a windshield? Well, it happened to me this past week with a passage that I know I must have read over 50 times. In fact, I have even taught on it and preached from it several times. But it just spoke to me yet again. So now that you're wondering what passage it is...

Hebrews 12.1-2 - 'Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.'

All these years as I read it I focused on the endurance part of the first verse - that the Christian life is like a long marathon that we run with endurance. And in order to run the race, we must get rid of all that hinders us. And that is true. But I never really noticed the last phrase of verse 1 - 'the race that is set before us'.

Now maybe you are thinking - 'so what, isn't it obvious?' Well, it wasn't so obvious for me until just recently. The point is that we are all given a race to run that is different that any one else's! We can't run our neighbor's race nor can he run ours. God will only count us faithful when we run OUR race. So it's no use to compare our race or life to someone else's; it's no use to try to copy someone else; it's no use to try to be/become someone else - to please God. It should stop us from thinking or saying - 'if only my life (or faith, walk, race, etc) were more like his / hers'.

This really encouraged me this week to run MY race well and with endurance. Not to get depressed because others might be further along in their race and also not to get prideful thinking I am further along in my race than others! The key is that I am looking at Jesus (not others) and running MY race (not others').

Just like Jesus ran His race - all the way to the Cross. Just like Paul ran his race. Just like Luther ran his race or Jonathan Edwards or William Carey or Hudson Taylor or Moody or Spurgeon or anyone else. In fact I want to say like Paul at the end of his earthly life - 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith' (2Tim 4.7). Amen.

Are you running YOUR race - the one that God has set before you? Or are you still trying to run someone else's race? Or are you trying to be someone else? Are you even in the race? ;-)

CCM Spanish Fellowship

2008-11-10T14:14:00.000+13:00

I have only been serving as interim pastor in the CCM Spanish Fellowship for a few weeks now, but it seems like we have grown close relatively quickly. The people are wonderful - so hospitable and loving. They have accepted us as the pastor family fairly quickly and are just grateful that they can continue as a ministry. They have become dear to our hearts as we are getting to know them more and more.

I wanted to thank those of you in Germany who have been praying for them as they went through the church split. They are on the road to healing and are truly taking steps forward as a fellowship. And the people of the Spanish Fellowship also thank you for your prayers - they are so amazed that you are praying for them!

Anyways, here are a few fotos of the 'new' Spanish Fellowship. We had a great day today as we got into God's Word and were challenged to reach out to people like Jesus did. And after church, gathered for a meal together. I pigged out on authentic Mexican food - my favorite! I had 3 tostadas, lots of fiery hot salsa, chips, a hot dog with jalapenos and jabenero chiles and a yummy cucumber and jicama salad (sorry I don't remember what it's called). Man am I stuffed!

Marco - one of the deacons and my translator

CCM Spanish Fellowship

Miguel - another deacon and translator

Mmmm - lots of Mexican food!

Sí Señor, Le Seguiré! (Yes Lord, I Will Follow You!)

2008-11-03T11:39:00.000+13:00

Well, after another week of serving the Spanish Fellowship (and Becky was able to be there this Sunday to meet the people), we decided to say 'Yes, Lord - you opened the doors and so we will follow You'. So for now, I am the pastor of the Calvary Chapel Murrieta Spanish Fellowship! I still think God has a great sense of humor taking us from Germany and now allowing us to serve Him in SoCal, with the Hispanics! So until God calls us out somewhere else, we are serving here in this capacity. So I guess we better start learning Spanish.

As you know, when the previous pastor was asked to step down, he left and took a bunch of people with him. That was why I was asked to come in as interim pastor. My church was ready to shut down the ministry, but I asked them to give it one more chance. They agreed, but only if I and only I would lead this fellowship. So here we are.

It was encouraging to see that today the Spanish Fellowship is still healthy and growing. There were more people in service today than last week. And there were several new people too. But more importantly, it was a blessing to see people jumping in to serve. When the previous pastor left, he took the worship leader and one of the deacons. So there was quite a few holes in the ministry team. But last week and this week, I saw people just stepping up and serving. One man will start doing worship, while his wife does sound. The remaining deacons will rotate and translate Wed and Sun for me. Another young lady took over as greeter. An older man (in his 80's) helps out with ushering. Another couple brings coffee and snacks every week so we can fellowship after service. That to me is the body of Christ pulling together! So pray for us as we start this new adventure!

Oh, and to clear something up that some have asked - this is not a paid position, I receive no salary from the Spanish Fellowship. I just want to help them. I work full-time doing construction type work Mon-Fri, (40-50 hours a week). Then I teach at the Spanish Fellowship on Wed and Sun and try to meet with the Spanish men on Sat mornings. Becks and I also have a part-time job doing inventory on the weekends. This is not so regular but it could be a lot of hours at times (just depends on the season). And we still teach the kids/youth at the Arabic Fellowship on Friday nights. So that is life for us in SoCal at the moment. It's not what we expected, but then again, I had never expected to be in Germany either! ;-)

Sí o No, Señor

2008-10-28T17:55:00.000+13:00

Well, it's been 2 weeks (2 Wed and 2 Suns) now since I started teaching at the Spanish Fellowship at our church. It's been fun and the people are awesome! They are going through a very tough time as a fellowship and are so blessed to have any one come to minister to them.

One older gentleman (he's 80) came up to me last Wed and gave me a huge hug and said thank you for coming. And with tears in his eyes, he said he wished I could stay with them permanently. He then said, he would teach me Spanish! One of the deacons asked (with a grin on his face) if temporary / interim pastor meant 2-3 yrs! Haha.

In any case, the leaders of the Spanish Fellowship have asked me to become their pastor! It seems that they are very willing to work with me, if I would lead them. And from what I understand so far, it seems like my pastor and our church would support that, but only if I would lead the fellowship. So it seems like I need to make a decision! Wow, I totally did not expect this at all!

So please pray for me, us. Is this what God wants? Or what I want? Oh and by the way, I have a job now. Actually 2 jobs - 1 full-time and 1 part-time (I'll post about the jobs later)! And Becks also works part-time. So that would be another thing to consider - with 3 jobs between the 2 of us, plus the Arabic Fellowship on Friday nights, and now possibly the Spanish Fellowship - when will we have time for anything else?! So please pray for us.

PS - the title is Spanish for 'Yes or No, Lord' / 'Ja oder Nein, Herr'.

Little Miss JabberJaw

2008-10-26T12:57:00.000+13:00

Just wanted to share a conversation I had with Dariah not too long ago. It's amazing that she is really talking now, using complete sentences sometimes - and she's not even 2 yet! We kinda talked about dinosaurs, spiders and her ABCD's (that's what she calls them). Notice her facial expressions. And not to mention the drool (and snot) now and again. I guess she really needs to lubricate her lips! Enjoy.

PS - Auntie Doro, you need to teach her some German!

PPS - as always, if the video doesn't play automatically, click on the 'play' arrow in the lower left.

¿Donde Es El Baño, Por Favor?

2008-10-17T18:14:00.000+13:00

I know the title is not correct Spanish, but my keyboard lacks the proper keys to write it correctly. So why the Spanish? Well, it just so happens that I am now (on a temporary basis) teaching the Wed night and Sun morning services for the Spanish Fellowship that meets at our church. Wow, bet you never saw that one coming! I sure didn't!

Our church, CCM, needed someone to fill in as pastor/teacher on short notice, so I was called up to bat. How long I will be doing this, I am not sure. Probably for a couple weeks or so, but it could go on longer. In any case, I think God has a great sense of humor - going from German to Spanish was not what I had expected! Now I find myself watching the Spanish channels on TV to see if I could understand anything! I actually took 3 years of high school Spanish - but that was over 20 years ago! Yo no comprendo / entiendo!

Yesterday was the first night I taught at the Wed night service and it was kinda fun. I wasn't sure how they would receive a yellow boy (that's Asian for you uninformed) teaching in English with a Spanish translator - interesting. But it went really well and I have to admit, it makes me really want to learn Spanish to communicate with the people. (Ok Isa, where are ya when I need ya!)

So I'll keep you updated as to how this all turns out. And don't be surprised if I start posting in Spanish now and again. Yo tengo que practicar. ;-)

PS - I fixed the title, I hope.

PPS - if you're wondering what the title means...it means 'where is the bathroom, please?' That's about the only Spanish I remember from my 3 years of classes! Hahaha!

Danke Freiburger Freund(e)!

2008-10-13T15:48:00.001+13:00

A couple weeks ago, we got an unexpected package in the mail - actually it was for Jesaiah. Most likely a belated birthday present for him. We opened it up and it was a huge LEGO set - almost 1400 pieces that make a bulldozer complete with motors and a remote control!

It didn't come with a sender name except for 'Friends from Freiburg'. So we don't know exactly who to thank for it but will just post this to thank all who were so thoughtful and generous. After we got back from Oklahoma, Jesaiah and I sat down and started putting it together - actually he did most of the work and I only helped when he couldn't figure it out. It was great father / son time.

What you see in the fotos below took him 2 and a half hours to put together, but he LOVED it so much! So again, thanks so much for your generous gift! We'll be putting it together over the next weeks and will post the final product.

Back in SoCal

2008-10-10T14:57:00.000+13:00

We're back in SoCal now, we had a great time in Oklahoma, but now it's time to get settled back into life here in hot and sunny Murrieta. We'll be posting some photos soon, so thanks for being patient.

In the meantime, enjoy this comic - don't you find yourself searching for EVERYTHING on Google? I do, well now I use Yahoo and get paid for it - made about $15 so far just from doing my normal searches from Yahoo instead of Google (ask me how if you want to join the fun)!

To Be Continued...

2008-10-06T03:06:00.000+13:00

We are in Oklahoma (since last week) to visit becks' parents and family. Unfortunately we don't have much time to post a lot during our trip. So we promise to post more when we return to SoCal. And we have a few photos to put up when we have more time.

If You Wanna Walk on Water...You've Gotta Crawl First

2008-09-30T20:12:00.000+13:00

I can relate to this at the moment - we've gotten outta da boat, but it sure doesn't feel like we're doing any water-walkin' yet. Just a few inches of crawling. But at least we're not sinking...yet.

Anyone else feel like I do? Anyone? Hello? Am I the only one who feels like this? I can't be the only one outta the boat?!

Anyways, have a great day! We're flying out to visit Becks' parents for a week or so. Don't know if we can keep up with the posting from there.

Evolution or Creation

2008-09-29T10:34:00.000+13:00

After church, at lunch while we were eating pasta and basil pesto (mmmm, one of my favorites), the kids and I got into a lively discussion about evolution and creation. I really don't know how we got onto that topic, but we really got deep into the discussion. Well, as deep as a 4, 6 and 8 year old can get. It was so awesome to hear them getting all excited to outdo one another to see who could come up with reasons why evolution isn't true and creationism is.

I just listened and encouraged them to think about this or that, plus I had to often (very often) 'exhort' them to also EAT! And to NOT talk with their mouths full of green, orange and yellow pasta -imagine with me what that would look like all mashed up with basil pesto, mixed with a little apple-berry juice and sometimes dribbling out the sides of their mouths and you can see why I had to interrupt and tell them to finish chewing and swallowing before speaking! ;-)

Anyways, we finally finished and summarized our findings. They came up with 2 good reasons why we can't believe in evolution...

(1) because there is really no proof. Jesaiah hit the nail on the head when he asked, 'if we came from monkeys, then who made the monkeys?' Of course we took that even further back - 'if we came from single cell life, then who created that?' Good question. No good answers for evolutionists.

(2) and because it takes God out of the picture as our Creator. Wow, can you imagine that coming from kids!? They understand it! Taliah said 'people don't wanna worship God so they make statues to bow down to and worship and that's not good because God said in the Ten Commandments not to worship statues.' RIGHT! And I love Zachie's response to that 'yeah, and God is gonna get angry! (But you gotta see it with the hand motions he was doing - just imagine Zachie, at his most excited, loudest and pumping his left arm up and down like he was gonna karate-chop someone to pieces!). But He will still love them and will never leave them and stay next to them.' Ahh, out of the mouths of babes...

I can't remember who said it first, (maybe it was me!) but it was pointed out that God created us because He wants to love us. And if we take God out of the picture and out of our lives, then we miss out on God's love! That's one to chew on.

And Dariah's response to all this? 'Spoooon! Spoooon! Daddy, mo juss, mo juss' - in English that would be 'please pick up the spoon that I dropped (actually it was a fork, but hey, she's not even 2 yet). And please may I have more juice, Daddy?' Or maybe that was what I was hoping she would say. ;-)

In any case, it was a great Sunday afternoon dining table discussion. And you just gotta cherish moments like these when you can say - yes, they do understand what we (and others) have been teaching them. And yes, it is all worth it.

Forbidden Fruit

2008-09-28T08:23:00.001+13:00

Thought this was pretty funny. I like the warning at the bottom - hahaha.

Enjoy and have a great weekend.

Kid's Ministry

2008-09-25T18:19:00.000+12:00

Now I am not talking about Children's Ministry with that title above, but about kids actually getting out there and ministering to others. So often we think that kids can't do anything, that they can only receive (i.e. in a Children's Ministry setting for example). We think that they are too young, not able or simply don't want to minister. But in all actuality - they can and do want to!

I took the two older kids with me this week when I went to help out at the Feeding Ministry. This is the second time they went with me and had been asking for the last few weeks to go again. So right after they got home from school, we went out to help set up. They helped get the tables set up, then the tent / pavillions set up. When the truck delivered the food, they helped unload and sort the food. And lastly, they stood for an hour handing out food to the people who came thru. Taliah handed out cat food and Jesaiah got to hand out bags of something that I have no idea what it was! But they loved it!

My desire was for them to see how blessed they / we are - we have food, clothes, beds, shelter. And to be thankful and count our blessings. And I think they are beginning to see that more and more. They really were good helpers today. Next time, I will take them with me when we pray for the people - as the people are waiting to get the food, we go down the line and ask if anyone needs prayer. Then we simply bring their request before the Lord. It's interesting the people you meet - this week I met a lady in her 70's who had eye surgery (cataracts) - and guess what, she's German! She married an American (Ammie to you Germans) and has lived in the USA for the last almost 50 years! And her husband died back in 1972 (I think - anyways it was a long time ago) and she has been alone since.

Another lady I met was a psychologist for the State of California, but is out of work now. Two years ago, one of her patients got angry and tackled her from behind, injuring her back. The State gave her 2 years to recover / be healed and come back to work. She didn't recover in time so they laid her off. She now has no house and lives in her truck with her dog (a GERMAN shepherd). Wow.

So yes, we are totally blessed and can and do count our blessings every day. All I can say is 'but for the grace of God, there go I'. Or you. Have you counted your blessings today? Today, have you thanked God for the food you ate, the bed you slept in, the clothes you wore (and got dirty) the friends and family you have around you or the life you have? Conviction.

Arabic Fellowship

2008-09-21T18:00:00.000+12:00

No, I am not learning Arabic nor am I leading the Arabic Fellowship / Church! But we as a Phamily are doing the Children's Ministry for an Arabic Fellowship that uses our church's building on Friday nights. The Fellowship / Church consists of about 10 Arabic Christian families who meet to worship, study the Bible and fellowship - basically they meet as a church body.

During this time, we minister to their children - about 15 kids from between the ages of 4 and 15 years old. So Becks takes the younger kids (under 6 years) and plays with them while I take the over 6 and do a Bible study. It's been fun (also challenging) because this is something we can do as a Phamily. Jesaiah and Taliah go with me and the older kids while Zachie and Dariah go with Becks.

So please pray for these kids - most come from Christian or Catholic homes, but few actually know the Lord as their Savior. They know about God, about Jesus, about the Bible, but I don't think many actually have a personal saving relationship with the Lord. So last week, we went over how to know the Lord (or how to start a relationship with Him) and also how to be sure we know Him. We would love to see them come to know Jesus as Savior and Lord!

And to top it all off, we get paid a little bit by the leader of the Arabic fellowship to do this, so it covers the materials we use with the kids and a part of our food cost for the week. So that is a blessing to us. But to be honest, I think we would do this anyways, even if we weren't paid - we really want to serve this fellowship and especially these kids. We want to make an impact in their lives - for the Lord and His glory of course. Wouldn't it be awesome to see these kids develop a personal relationship with Jesus!?! So pray for us and them each Friday night.

Sign Spinning - New Olympic Sport!

2008-09-17T19:10:00.000+12:00

Okay, I had to add this video - this guy is gooood! Man, if only the last Summer Olympics included sign-spinning! I bet at the next Olympics, the opening ceremony will include sign-spinning!

PS - read the previous post first.

'Dream' Jobs - Reloaded

2008-09-17T18:24:00.000+12:00

So here are a few more 'interesting' jobs that I have applied for or am really considering applying for! So, as you can guess, still no luck in week 6 of the job hunt. I am kinda gettin' desperate, as you can tell by my selection of jobs. But I am not losing hope - yet. Especially since my godchild is praying I get a job real soon!

1. Healthy Athletic Joggers to hand out flyers. Must be able to maintain a light jog for 3 hours continuously. Yep, that's what the ad said. I love this one - maybe I can combine the daily exercise and make some money doin' it! Oh I think they pay something $0.10 per flyer handed out / put on doors or cars.

2. Clicking on Ads - yep, I actually signed up for this one. You click on ads and visit websites claiming to help you make $2,000 - $10,000 monthly online. For a small fee of $49.99 of course. And did you notice how all these websites basically say the same thing. And how they go mad with their highlighter. And how the site is like 15 pages long and you have to hold down the 'down' scroll button for 1 minute before you get to the end of the page. In any case, I made $1.00 (about 0.65 Euro) so far clickin' ads! Wooohooo! Now we can save towards that van that we need! And that vacation to Hawaii (sorry all you Freiburgers - we're going to Hawaii first! J/K ;-) )

3. Sign Spinners -yes, there is such a thing as a Sign-Spinner. You get paid by local businesses to stand on the corner of the street and hold a sign shaped like an arrow with the name of the business on it. And you have to do whatever you can to attract the attention of drivers as they whizz past you talking on their mobile (illegal!) and drinkin' their Starbucks triple latte (over-rated).

Check out the vid to see what I mean. I hope to be as good as this guy one day. Then maybe someone will make a video of me and post it to YouTube! And yes there are a few people who do this professionally and will train you to become a better sign-spinner. Maybe they have one of the websites mentioned above. I'll have to check it out next time I go clickin' ads.

(as usual click on the 'play' button at the bottom left to play the video)