restorying faith and values

Serpent Scroll used for children's story

2012-01-30T11:45:00.003+10:30

Rochelle, a Mum who reads the scroll books to her kids did sometime awesome recently. Have a read!

"I took at chn's story and used from the Serpent Scroll the story of Adam and Eve and then told the children they could get this book out of the library to read more, nice to get some feedback that even the really young children were listening with rapt attention as I told/read the story - so hopefully the 4 copies at the library will be taken out by heaps of chn from the church and community!"

When I asked her if I could post this on my blog, she went on to say:

"No probs be really happy to do so my daughter Paris who you may remember from when she was a baby at camp, (now almost 8) has loved your books so much, we have read 2 with one to go and she just can't wait to read each chapter, so they are books that HAVE to be shared with our community too!!"

How are you using the Serpent Scroll, the Lamb Scroll, and the Kingdom Scroll to bless the children in your world?

Stump Pastor Dave

2012-01-30T00:36:00.002+10:30

In the JETS shed at Tassie bigcamp the kids put questions in a box and I answered them during the meeting. I was so impressed with the questions! They made me laugh, love, ponder and wonder. Here they are… (I'll leave you to ponder the answers!)

General Questions:
If Giants aren’t real, why are they in the Bible?
What was Jesus’ Mum’s Mum’s name? What was Jesus’ Dad’s Dad’s Name?
Why can’t pigs fly?
What was in between the angels on the Ark of the Covenant?
If God can do anything then why isn’t the future predestined? Because if it is then God cant change it – He can’t do anything.
If you had to choose, why did the chicken cross the road?
If Jesus, God the Father and the Holy Spirit are three in one then why couldn’t God the Father die on the cross?
How did words get to be called what they are?
When we die and go to heaven and then to the new earth, when we die and go to heaven will that happen all over again?
Why did God make animals that can kill you?
When we go to heaven and come back to earth what age would we be?
Can we have babies in Heaven?
God wants us to be happy, right? The why do things happen that can make us extremely sad?
Who was Noah’s father and mother?
How long did it take to recite the Torah?
Where did God come from?
It is said, Jesus sweated blood. Is that scientifically true?
Explain the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation.
Please sing ‘There’s no one like Jesus’ with all the actions.
If we have the freedom of choose then how can God see the future? Because if He knows the outcome before we make the decision we don’t really choose.
What are the three wise man’s names and what are their backgrounds?

Personal Questions:
Why did you become a pastor?
What is your favourite girls name in the Bible?
Are you going to come to big camp again next year?
If you did not write books what would you be doing in your life?
Why do you like watermelon?
Will you miss us?
What has been your favourite thing at camp?
What is your favourite colour?

Jan 14: 4H-SS Teachers

2012-01-12T17:30:00.002+10:30

Lesson Title: Glimpses of God – In the Beginning
Lesson Date: January 14

Sabbath School teacher’s 4H questions
Good questions are worth their weight in gold. Questions are most useful when they probe the edges of our knowledge base or comfort zone. Here are some questions to get you thinking beyond the box as you prepare to teach this Sabbath’s lesson to your class.

Head
building a foundation of knowledge

1. Sunday’s lesson mentions Ps 14:1 “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” This verse implies there were atheists in David’s day and that he thought the idea was foolishness. What might it have been like to be an atheist in a world rampant with belief in gods of all shapes and sizes? How might the plight of the atheist in David’s day have been similar to that of the monotheist?

2. When is recreation re-creation? Often holidays leave us more tired than revived. What times of recreation truly re-create you — physically, spiritually, emotionally?

Heart
learning to love what God loves

1. Monday’s Lesson explores Job 38:4-7. This passage considers the planning and preparation that went into creation and the joy this brought the angels. Continue reading verses 8-11. How do tsunami’s show sin’s effect on Creation? How must they affect the heart of God?

2. How is Sabbath a day of recreation helping you relax and unwind?
How is Sabbath a day of re-creation helping you heal and renew?

Hands
choosing to act as God desires

1. The second half of Monday’s lesson compares God’s love to a mother bird preparing a nest and teaching the babies to fly. God prepared a nest for Adam and Eve and (similarly to most birds) they were ejected from it. For many birds, there are no gentle flying lessons repeated over time. It’s a jump or a push and a new life – of flight.

How do these two examples (Eden’s exit and leaving the nest) reflect your reality? Have there been times when you jumped or were pushed into the next phase of life? What did this act of “forced re-creation” create in you? Have there been times when you were gently shaped over time? Which do you prefer?
Consider times when you were involved in shaping other people – Have you shaped through both gentle moulding and tough love? How do these acts of re-creation of life reveal our connection to and reflection of God?

2. What Sabbath habit could you maintain that would re-create (renew) you personally each week?
What Sabbath tradition could you practice that would re-create (renew) your family each week?

Horizon
exploring the Kingdom beyond my walls

1. Sunday’s lesson explains the void/filled paradigm of creation week. Day 1 to 3 created environments, which were filled on day 4-6 (1/4, 2/5, 3/6). This ordering of space and then filling of it is also used by liberal Christians (who believe in evolution) to show that God is a God of order – gradually preparing ahead of time what he was planning long in the future. How could you use this common ground to develop a friendship with a liberal Christian? How could the Sabbath be a day of celebration to both ways of thinking?

2. In the new-Earth what re-creation (creation made new) are you most looking forward to? Why?
In the new-Earth what recreation (enjoyable moment or event) are you most looking forward to? Why?

2012 SS-Challenge
As your conference Sabbath School Director, it is my SS-Challenge to your Sabbath School to start a midweek small group meeting. To assist in this endeavour, I have created a study guide for your use. This study guide explores the 28 core teachings of the Seventh-day Adventist Church using the 4H model. It is open, inclusive, discussion oriented and non-judgemental. People of all ages and spiritual levels will enjoy your “28 Stories Small Group.”

The 4H approach to Bible study was developed while preparing the 28 Stories small group guide/journal. Here is an excerpt from Study 15 – “Very Good”.

Jesus extended a hand to Adam and helped him to his feet. Then draping His arm across the shoulders of His new creation, the two of them looked out over the glorious Garden of Eden. The sun shone full from behind them causing the river and everything beyond to shimmer and shine in it’s reflected brilliance.

The Creator spoke, turning to place His free hand on the man’s chest, “Adam, you are but shadow and breath,” and then with a sweeping gesture taking in all that was before them, He finished, “And yet, for you the universe was made!”

Jesus and Adam walked through the Garden. Jesus explained to Adam the amazing things that had taken place in the last six days. The entire world around them had taken shape—light, land, sea, sun, moon, rivers, trees, day and night.

Then Jesus said, “But today is special, Adam! Today I created and named you.”

“And I thank you,” Adam said. “I am greatly honoured to live in your paradise and care for your Creation.”

“And I am honoured to have you as my servant,” Jesus answered. “Serve me faithfully—with all your heart, all your mind and all your soul—and you will be fulfilled and happy.”

The 28 Stories Study Guide is available from the Adventist Book Centre.

Jan 7: 4H-SS Teachers

2012-01-03T21:17:00.006+10:30

Lesson Title: Glimpses of God – The Triune God
Lesson Date: January 7, 2012

Sabbath School teacher’s 4H preparation
Good questions are worth their weight in gold. Questions are most useful when they probe the edges of our knowledge base or comfort zone. Here are some questions to get you thinking beyond the box as you prepare to teach this Sabbath’s lesson to your class. This is not meant to be a discussion guide but a thought prompter for you, the teacher, so your lesson time will be creative and thought provoking.

Head
building a foundation of knowledge

1. The “prove-it” hijacker: One of your Sabbath School regulars comes prepared with every bit of paper and websites they could dredge up to prove that the SS topic is wrong. (This week, their argument would be that the Trinity is not Biblical.) What will you do with their demands for proof that threaten to derail your Sabbath School lesson?

a. Come prepared with your own pile of verses and quotes, ready for the hijack attempt. (This shows you are willing and ready to sacrifice Sabbath School class time for this discussion.)

b. Silence the hijacker with a rebuke or have them physically removed. (This shows you do not value the topic or the person.)

c. Let them speak and then move on. (This is a common way of dealing with over-talkative or “pet (topic) lovers” that come to Sabbath School. We’ve all done this, but has this approach ever helped your lesson develop in the direction you planned?)

Suggestion: As a proactive Sabbath School Superintendent, in the prelims (or as a class leader, at the start of the discussion) explain the lesson has been prepared to explore the current Seventh-day Adventist understanding of scripture on the topic of the day. Establish that other people believe differently and are free to do so. Ask that respect be given to the teacher and the prepared topic.
If they persist, suggest the hijacker organise a discussion time with the pastor and interested participants on the topic they have prepared. (This honours their right to be heard and invites them to do the same.)

2. You don’t need to wait for a Sabbath School Hijacker to discover the conundrum of the Trinity. The Bible itself – in both old and new testaments talks about God as both singular and plural. In Genesis 1:26-27 God creates humanity in “our image” and then in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) God says “The Lord is One.”

a. What is your favourite way to explain this conundrum?

b. With a story? (Christian minister and comedian Mike Warnke says cherry pie filling, when made right, is like the Trinity. The filling stays liquid, flowing throughout the pie. You can therefore cut a cherry pie into three distinct slices, but underneath the surface there's only one united area of filling.)

c. A science experiment? (The triple point cell where ice, water, vapour all exist in one container).

d. Do you have another way of explaining it?

3. Which Biblical depiction of God are you most and least comfortable with? A Father? A breath? Marriage? A Voice? A Hen? A Rock? A Dove? Jesus? The Holy Spirit? (Why?)

Heart
learning to love what God loves

1. In Exodus 3:13-15 why doesn’t God just answer with a name? (Yahweh, Elshadai, etc) – Why the history lesson? God ties His name to a story. Why is it important to have a story attached to God’s Name? How do we attach stories to our name and the names of those around us? Why is this important?

2. After the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, why did God tell His people to tell their children about God and His presence in everyday life? What do families have to do with the Shema?

3. In Monday’s lesson a list of verses is given showing moments when Jesus was worshiped.

a. Compare and contrast the stories of worship in these verses with your experiences of worship. How does this challenge you?

b. When have you had a Glimpse of God and been compelled to worship in the way these people were?

Hands
choosing to act as God desires

1. How can we give the world around us glimpses of God by putting the Triune nature of God into action?

a. How will I be the hands of the Father, Life-Giver and Merciful Sustainer, to the world around me?

b. How will I be the hands of Jesus, Creator and reCreator, to the world around me?

c. How will I be the hands of the Holy Spirit, Comforter and Guide, to the world around me?

2. The lesson dedicates an entire day (Thursday) to the prayer of Jesus for his followers (John 17!). Jesus’ main desire is for His people to be One as He is One with the Father. How are we doing at being one? Are we “as tight as the trinity” or do we have a way to go?

a. How healthy are our relationships with others in our local church?

b. What personal character development is needed?

c. What community commitment is needed?

d. What must be put aside?

e. Why is the oneness of the Trinity so important?

f. Why is the oneness of believers so important to Jesus?

Horizon
exploring the Kingdom beyond our walls

1. From the Lesson: “Some early Adventists struggled with the doctrine of the Trinity. Today, the church has taken a firm stand on the doctrine.”

a. There are numerous anti-Trinitarians in Australian Adventist churches. How can we minister to these people without excluding them or encouraging their views?

2. It is part of the human condition to want to understand and explain the nature of the Divine. In the Bible, God is explained with metaphors, concepts and names. Why is this desire to understand God so prevalent?

a. Muslims are vehement monotheist. Yet they have the 99 names for God to help them explain God’s unfathomable nature.

b. Hindu’s have one God and a Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva), which each represent aspects of their singular Supreme God. All of the many other Hindu gods are similarly representative of aspects of the Supreme God. Hinduism is monotheistic polytheism!

3. What other terms, stories and characters in the Bible reveal the nature of God to you?

The 4H approach to Bible study was developed while preparing the 28 Stories small group guide/journal. Here is an excerpt from the introduction.

Far to frequently, faith is reduced to “I believe” and belief is reduced an intellectual nod of the head. Faith is so much more. True faith is beyond belief! Beyond the head faith, which we Adventist are good at, there is so much more. These studies will take you on a faith journey in which you will explore the head, heart, hands and horizons of your faith story.

Each of the 28 studies in this journal follows the pattern of:

Bible Story – Rewritten to connect you to the Biblical character and to direct your thoughts toward a particular aspect of the doctrine in consideration.

My Reflection – Finding yourself in the Biblical narrative.

My Story – Finding the principles of the Biblical narrative in your experience.

My Assurance – Strengthening your faith by encouraging your heart.

My Commitment – Challenging your faith by considering what you can become.

My Outlook – Expanding your horizon of your God, your world or yourself.

My Response – Acknowledging the doctrine and considering it’s importance.

The 28 Stories Study Guide is available from the Adventist Book Centre.

Blood of the Lamb

2011-12-18T11:11:00.000+10:30

“Is it really necessary for us to kill something just because we make a mistake?” Enosh asked as he walked next to Father.

“It is the way of forgiveness,” his father responded. “It is what God asks of us.”

“How did it start?” Enosh asked, stepping quickly to keep up with Father’s long stride. “I mean, I know who made the first sacrifice, but why does it have to be like this?”

Father shifted the position of the lamb he carried on his shoulders. “You know this, Enosh! You tell me why?”

“Because God said so.” Enosh stated.

“Yes, but why?” Father asked.

“Because Adam and Eve broke the rules.” Enosh said.

“The first sin,” Father said. “And the first sacrifice.”

“But why?” Enosh asked again. “Look! The city!”

They had just come around a corner on the mountain trail and now the city of Jerusalem lay in the clearing below them.

“Look at the temple!” Father said, pointing to the middle of the city. The temple’s white marbled splendour was hard to miss. It was like a pile of fresh snow in a dirty city.

Father gave Enosh a gentle shove and headed down the trail. “Come on, let’s get down there!” Father said over his shoulder. Enosh took one last look at the city.

Coming up behind Father, Enosh studied the lamb draped across Father’s shoulders. The lamb’s little head peered over the edge of the precipice, down at the city.

“He has no idea,” Enosh said as he fell into step with his father.

“Hmmm?” Father said.

“The lamb,” Enosh said, looking at the small legs father was holding loosely against his chest. “He has no idea that his throat is about to be slit from ear to ear.”

“That’s a bit gruesome,” Father said.

“But it’s true,” Enosh said. “Isn’t it? The priest is gonna hold him down on the altar and pull a knife against his little neck and all his blood will spurt out and he’ll die.” Enosh said all of this with a matter-of-fact seriousness, trying to act like it didn’t bother him.

“True enough,” Father said. “That is what will happen.”

“I still don’t get it,” Enosh said. “Why does our lamb have to die?” His voice betrayed him, cracking, as he spoke. “Or any lamb? They didn’t do anything wrong.”

Father stopped on the side of the trail and squatted down. He lifted the lamb off his shoulders and placed it in front of himself. Enosh came around the other side of the lamb and ran his fingers through its soft coat.

“Enosh,” Father said.

Enosh looked up and blinked against the tears. He looked across the lamb into his father’s eyes. “Yes, Father?”

“Offering a sacrifice teaches us three things,” Father explained. “First, we give one of our own animals, not a stray or a wild animal, so we feel the loss. By giving up something we value, we take ownership of what is about to happen.”

Enosh looked down at the lamb and slowly back up to his father. “But it’s sad. It hurts in here,” Enosh pushed his fist into his stomach. “It’s hard to breath.”

“That’s what sin should do to us,” Father said, “every time.”

Enosh nodded.

“The second thing we learn,” Father continued, “when we offer a sacrifice, is that God wants to forgive us. But it’s a difficult thing. Sin is like death. It takes God’s breath away, too. Only through a blood sacrifice can sin be forgiven. I don’t think I understand it any better than you do, really. But God said it, and so we do it. One day we will all understand.”

Enosh was surprised to hear his father say he didn’t understand. He thought his Dad knew everything! He explored his father’s face. “So, you mean, it hurts God when we sin, just like it hurts us when we make a sacrifice?”

Father nodded.

“That makes me like God a bit more,” Enosh said. “I mean, a lot more than when I thought He just wanted us killing animals all the time.”

Father smiled. “And that, my son, is the third thing every sacrifice teaches us. God wants us as close as possible. By forgiving us, God is able to invite us closer. And we are able to approach Him.”

Enosh and Father tussled the lambs fur a while longer and then father lifted it onto his shoulders and stood. Silently he walked toward Jerusalem. Enosh followed.

When they arrived at the temple, Father left Enosh by one of the courtyard gates. He was only ten, too young to go in. From where he stood, he could clearly see the altar.

It wasn’t long before it was Father’s turn. He lifted the lamb off his shoulders and handed it to the priest. The priest laid the lamb on its side and held it down firmly with one hand. With the other hand he drew a knife quickly and deeply across the little lamb’s throat.

Enosh saw blood gush out, into a bowl, and past the bowl onto the ground. The lamb twitched and jerked before going deathly still. The priest dipped his fingers into the bowl and applied blood on the horns of the altar. Then he poured the rest of the blood across the top of the altar.

Enosh shook his head sadly and a shiver ran up his spine.

Father nodded at the priest and walked toward the gate. Enosh quickly spun, putting his back against the wall outside the gate. Soon father emerged.

“Come along, Enosh,” father said, “All done.” Then after a pause, Father added, “Well, until next time.”

Saving Hamsters

2011-12-18T08:12:00.001+10:30

When I was in Year 7 I decided to raise hamsters. I bought a boy hamster and a girl hamster and waited for the inevitable.
The morning after the first litter of hairless hamsters were born I carefully added food to the dish and water to the bottle for the parents. I realized it was cold on my desk where the aquarium was resting. So, I picked it up and moved it to the window where the morning sun could warm the babies and parents.

When I returned from school I was heartbroken to find the sun had mercilessly cooked all of the babies. The mum and dad were fine. But the heat had been too much for the fragile newborns. All seven were dead. I felt horrible. It was my fault. If only I would have left them on the desk. Yes, they needed sun. But they also needed protection from the sun.

When the next litter was born I devised a plan. I arranged the aquarium so only half would get sun. Then they could get some sun, but still have the freedom to move away from the sun. But the little babies didn’t get the point. They didn’t see the grand plan. They just sat there in the sun — and cooked.

When litter three was born, I added a new phase to my plan. I went to the fridge and got a piece of cheese. Then I went to the spice rack and got the black pepper, some coriander and a pinch of salt. It was perfect. I went and arranged myself so that I was sitting on the desk, leaning over the aquarium.

Then I ate the cheese.

It worked — slowly. But it worked. The mixture was perfect and I began to shrink. I held tightly to the aquarium as I shrunk. I went from full size to the size of a baby in a couple minutes. I kept shrinking. I swung a ken-doll sized leg over the edge of the aquarium. I dropped into the hamster’s home as I continued to shrink. Soon, I was the size of a baby hamster — my eyes closed tightly. I curled into a ball and the final phase of my incarnation medication kicked in. I grew four little pink feet, a really cute wiggly nose and then fur. Finally, I grew with a burst into an adult hamster. I looked just like the hamsters. But I still had all my human smarts.

I went to the little baby pinkies and said, “Hey guys, spend a bit of time in the sun and then move into the shade. Don’t get cooked like those who have gone before you.” They just stared back at me – with closed eyes and wiggling noses. I tried again, “The sun is hot! The sun – that big round thing out the window – it gets really hot. It’ll warm you up. But, then you’ve got to move! Ok?” Had they understood? I couldn’t tell.

The parents came to examine the new hamster who had dropped from above. They waddled up to me and nuzzled me. Suddenly I had a thought, These are the parents! The guardians of the little ones. I’ll tell them! So, I did.

They didn’t seem impressed. Their response baffled me. They said, “You’re wrong. That’s not why the babies die. They just die. They all die. Death is inevitable — nothing we can do about it. And we reckon, why not die warm. So, we put them in the sun while they die.” I was dumbfounded. I tried to correct their misconceptions. It’s the sun that’s killing them! They didn’t like my ideas. Who was I to correct them?

I began picking up the babies in my little bucktoothed mouth and carrying them to the cool corner. The parents squeaked uncontrollably. As I dropped a baby in the shade and headed back to pick up the next one, the mother would grab the one I’d just dropped and move it back into the sun. It was useless, but I kept trying. And trying. And they kept ruining my every attempt.

In a moment of hamster-boy brilliance, I had another idea.

I began furiously pulling out all my hair. The two adult hamsters stopped scurrying and watched me in fascinated horror. I ripped out every bit of hair that I could reach with my teeth. Then I explained, “You are adults. You have hair. Your hair protects you from the sun. Watch.” Then I lay down in the sunny corner, on top of the babies, protecting them from the sun. I began to get hot. Very hot. My breath started to speed up. My back stung where the sun seared my hairless skin. My breath became like inhaling fire. Finally it was too much and my little hamster body died.

The parents saw me stop breathing. They approached carefully and sniffed. I was dead. They pushed their noses against me and rolled me off of their little ones. Then they buried me with sawdust.

Moments later my dead body began to pulse. It began to swell. Life returned to me. But I was stretching out of my hamster shape. The parents watched my transformation in confusion — how could they understand? Soon, I was back to the shape of a boy. As I grew tall enough I grabbed the side of the aquarium and climbed over onto the desk. I continued to grow until I was back to my normal size. I hopped off the desk and knelt down to look through the glass.

What effect had my example had? Had my death accomplished anything? What would the parents do?

I watched with joy as the father and mother hamster gently picked up their babies and moved them into the shade. It had worked! My death had given life to my little creatures. And my example had forever changed the reality of two furry little parents.

Men Like Jesus

2011-12-04T06:42:00.002+10:30

I recently wrote this while waiting for my kids to get out of school. I put it up on facebook and was amazed at the amount of conversation it generated. What are your thoughts?

-----

Do you know any men like Jesus?
He was never home (he said he didn't even have one). He was always out with his mates.
He had long chats with prostitutes and ignored his mother. He had so few personal boundaries that he had to pray when everyone else was asleep.
He chose the wrong crowd. When he needed them, his friends failed him. They fell asleep while he was crying and ran away when he was being beaten up.
Jesus fought and died for a cause only he understood.
Know any men like Jesus? Why not tell them you love them just the way they are? Jesus does — because he understands them. He's been there, done that.
Jesus is just one of the guys. Gotta love Him!

Telling in the Park

2011-12-02T11:53:00.004+10:30

I recently went to preach in the lovely town of Echuca.

A couple of days before I came, one of the church elders called me with an idea.

"We've been letterboxing a commission housing area," he said. "There are lots of kids that play in the park situated in the middle of the houses. I know how much you love to tell stories. What would you think of telling stories to the kids in the park?"

I thought it was a great idea!

"How will you get the kids there at the right time?" I asked.

"We can make a flyer and letterbox the area the day before."

And they did.

These are the kids that showed up. We had great fun.

I told a few values-based stories and we had a few laughs.

I've always thought it would be fun to stop at random parks when kids are playing and put up a shingle - "Storyteller - 10 mins!" and see what happens.

Now I am more tempted!

If I could change the world (Mikey's year 6 speech for tomorrow)

2011-11-13T19:15:00.002+10:30

I wonder what I would do if I could change the world. Would I stop world hunger, make world peace, or something different altogether? Well…I’d prefer to combine all three.

Most people think world peace is a great idea. I agree, but I like to take it up a notch.

So if I could change the world, this is what I would do:

Guns will turn into carrots as soon as they are fired.

Grenades turn into apples just before the explosion.

Bombs turn into watermelons just before impact.

This is just the first dish I’m thinking of serving.

The nuclear reactors in the USA would turn into giant tubes of tomato sauce.

All the Middle eastern tanks would turn to bread, that roll into circle bases.

The landmines in Pakistan would turn into jalapenos as soon as they are activated.

All the German air force would be in trouble, because as soon as the planes took off, they became anchovies.

Aussie Missile Jeeps would turn into pineapples and their missiles would turn into sausages.

The swords of the Japanese samurai would turn into long, juicy spears of capsicum.

All of the bricks on the military walls throughout the world would start turning into olives, making the walls collapse.

All of the Russian submarines would turn into fried chicken.

All remaining military supplies would be turned into shredded cheese to top it all off.

Think about that! Once all the weapons and military supplies were turned into food, no one in Africa would be starving anymore! And when there are no more weapons, the entire world is at peace! But that isn’t where my story ends…

Once everyone realizes what has happened, they will bring all the food bits to the middle-east and store them in large metal containers.

As I said earlier, Most people think world peace is a great idea. And yes, I do like to take it up a notch. Some of you may know what this was all leading up to, others won’t. But at the end of the day, the entire world would come together not only to make world peace, oh no, they would come together to make world pizza!

Thank you for listening to my speech and I hope you enjoyed it.

It's Only Me

2011-11-03T20:32:00.006+10:30

Since meeting the serpent in the Garden, humanity has been prone to hiding in fear when God approaches. Is it our relative nakedness – both spiritual and emotional – that drives us away from His presence?

And yet, at every visit, God repeats, “Do not fear!” He said it to Abram, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, Jacob… The list goes right through the Old Testament. Finally, at Jesus’ birth the angel choir bursts on stage with a mighty, “Fear not!”

When God or an angel enters human sight, the inevitable opening line is, "Do not be afraid." Why is this? Is it the brightness of the new arrival in comparison to the darkness on Earth? Is it the unexpected nature of the appearing? Is the human fear justified?

After Jesus’ mission on earth was finished and He stood ready to return to Heaven, His parting words were, "I am with you always." What happened between the "Do not be afraid" heralding Jesus' life on earth and His "I am with you always" farewell? How was it that He no longer needed to say, “Do not fear?” How did Jesus replace the fear of God’s appearance with longing for His presence?

Jesus was a beacon of God’s love. He revealed the true nature of God’s character to the world through His compassion for the broken and His desire to seek justice for the downtrodden. Jesus was God in humble human flesh. Children flock to Him and yet demons flee at His command. What manner of love is this?

To know Him is to love Him. To know who He is without desiring Him is to be truly terrified. The demons believe in Jesus and yet tremble because they do not desire a loving relationship with Him. Jesus revealed in relationship the joy of knowing God. Between His “Do not fear” entrance and His “I am with you always” exit, Jesus’ threw His arms open and embraced humanity – broken and fearful as it was – saying “It’s only me!”

Jesus, took his disciples well beyond their “faith pay grade” by walking on water in front of them. They panicked, screamed and looked for somewhere to hide. Jesus soothed his disciples saying, "Do not be afraid" ... "Its only me." what does this imply about His relationship with the disciples? They had become comfortable with Jesus’ human nature but when divinity peeked through He had to remind them who He was.

During our spiritual journey, we all experience things that take us beyond our “faith pay grade" which scares the "Do not be afraid" out of us. Just when we thought our relationship with God was fully embraced in the gentle arms of Jesus an new unexpected experience of faith shocks us. Something – a Bible verse, a youth rally, a sermon, a personal retreat, a prayer group – it can be anything. Something approaches us, walking on the water, and we hit the deck in fear and trembling. It is then that we need to know we are not alone.

When we Christians begin to speak to a nonbeliever about our faith, we often begin with a "Do not be afraid" statement or setting. A chat at a cafe. A conversation that uses "real life" stories. Our goal is to lead people from a "Do not be afraid" introduction to a joyful "I am with you always" experience. The temptation is to take them to the last page before they’ve read the book. A butterfly helped from its cocoon will never fly. The struggle develops strength and readiness for the next stage. Like Jesus, we need to stay close enough for them to know who we are through the entire journey.

It is only by maintaining a healthy and long-term friendship that we can get to the "it's only me" phase with our young-in-the-faith friends and family. When they have that spiritual experience that challenges their faith, how can our presence be a reassuring and comforting one? Our “it’s only me” will only calm them if we mean something to them.

The disciple-making journey is a gentle process of handing them over to Jesus. Our reassuring “it’s only me” is heard less and they begin to hear, “it’s only Jesus.” And when they hear that, when they hear “It’s only Jesus” and they relax – then we know we have done our job. They have Jesus and us for eternity. Then we can decrease while He increases. Our friend in the faith continues hand in hand with Jesus and we seek out another to whom we can say, “Do not be afraid.”

Be patient. Jesus took more than three years of daily relationship before He moved from "Do not be afraid" to "I am with you always." Surely there were many “it’s only me” moments before they relaxed into His presence.

Be patient. Be authentic. Be loving. And be present. Your example will speak volumes to those walking with you between "Do not be afraid" and "Jesus is with you always."

USA trip with Cyrus - Day 10 - Magical Kingdom

2011-10-19T09:13:00.003+10:30

Today was our final day at Walt Disney World.

We spent the day at Magical Kingdom.

Amazingly, the lines were very short. We went on the best rides and never waited more than 15 minutes! So, we had done everything we wanted by 1pm and decided to do Space Mountain again. Then we bought gifts and headed home.

We began the day with a photo of Cyrus on Main Street.

The Jungle Cruise was our first ride, followed by Pirates of the Caribbean.

We both got drenched on Splash Mountain.
The front seat has it's privileges!

After Space Mountain (which was insane! Twice!) Cyrus spent some time in the arcade.
This is a tank simulator!

Podracer was a good game, too!

Tomorrow we are taking a day off!
We have walked and walked and walked - for four days!

USA trip with Cyrus - Day 9 - Hollywood Studios

2011-10-18T11:50:00.003+10:30

Wow! What a fantastic day of great shows and fun rides!

Here's Cyrus at the beginning of the day with a living, growing version of lightening McQueen.

We took this one for Mikey!

Most of the rest of the day really has to be seen to be enjoyed.

So these shots are of some of the things that makes Disney so great.

Here is one of the many themed gardens.

Here is one of the many creative touches...
This was just on a post in a shop. There are funny things everywhere!

This one is for Rachael and Mikey.

It's those super-smart guys! Phineas and Herb!

Well, without question, the stunt show was the best part of the day !

These guys can drive!

USA trip with Cyrus - Day 8 - Epcot Center

2011-10-17T08:57:00.004+10:30

Today, Cyrus and I explored Epcot Center. What a creative and crazy place!

Here is Cyrus infront of "Spaceship Earth".

SpaceShip Earth was a slow ride (inside the ball behind me) that explored communication between humans from cavemen to pre-mobile phone man. :)

I think it was made in the 80's...

Cyrus on a driving game.

Half of Epcot Center is a long walk from one nation to the next.

In each area there is architecture and food from that nation.

The final two pics are the pre-show (while in line) for Cryus' favourite ride of the day - Mission Space. We did the "Orange" level which the most intense option. The simulator creates G-forces and believable movements! I went to Mars... TWICE!

USA trip with Cyrus - Day 7 - Animal Kingdom

2011-10-16T09:05:00.003+10:30

Today is the first of our four days at Walt Disney World.

We explored Animal Kingdom and had lots of fun doing so!

Right after entering the park, we discovered the tree of life.

So, I thought Cyrus should start the day with a pic.

The first ride we went on was called "Dinosaur" and is based loosely on the Disney movie from a few years ago called "Dinosaur." It was a very fun roller coaster Disney style. Lots of animatronic dinosaurs, smoke, mist, darkness, loudness, scary moments, and lots of fun!

Here is our pic at the end of the ride. Can you find us?

The tree of life, up close. Examine the trunk of the tree. It's cool!

Long necked thing.

Cyrus spies something worth exploring.

This was the best ride at Animal Kingdom - "Expedition Everest!"

Larry, Curly and Moe at the playground.

USA Storytelling trip with Cyrus - Day 4-5

2011-10-14T22:26:00.006+10:30

Wow! What at experience!

For the past two days we have been shooting the six episodes of a storytelling workshop for the CSPS (Center for Secular and Post-modern Studies) aimed at those who work as preachers, teachers and volunteers in the Adventist Church.

On Wednesday and Thursday I arrived at the producers house at 8am and we drove to the shoot location where we took take after take until we had it perfect. I cannot wait to see it! I am so proud to have worked with such a team of professionals. Wednesday we finished at about 6pm. Thursday we finished at 8pm!

Both days, there was a lot of fine tuning that needed to be done. Being a new set, on the first day, the lighting and sound and angles and more all needed balancing and fine tuning. Then on the second day, the set was changed and required more fine tuning.

The stage backdrop was mirrors - 5 on the first day and 3 on the second. They create a stunning post-modern look, but are extremely difficult to film cleanly. Try to imagine all the lighting issues with lights hitting mirrors, each facing a little different direction. Then, imagine the reflections in each mirror - what will you see? You can't let light bounce from the hot stage lights into the camera. And you can't let cameras be seen by other cameras. The backdrop had to be completely blacked out and the cameras peeking through holes in the black sheets. It was a nightmare to setup, but an absolutely brilliant finished effect. I have never seen a group of

profectionists work together with such precision and patience! It was something to behold!

The first day we filmed the first half of each episode. The shows are divided into 10 minutes of storytelling and 10 minutes of teaching on storytelling. We filmed the first 10 minutes of all 6 shows on Day 1 - with the mirrors all standing on end.

Then, on the second day, for the teaching segments, we took out two mirrors and turned the middle one lengthways to function as a writing board. It created a very cool effect, but was VERY difficult to get perfect for the cameras. We didn't start the true film takes until after lunch - at about 2pm. It was amazing how, once everything was perfectly tuned and setup, we flew through the episodes. Basically, we did one episode an hour for the rest of the day.

In each of the teaching episodes we had new material on the board. This required a lot of time in writing and then darkening the text and illustrations until it was perfect for the cameras.

Sarah Asaftei, the Director, meticulously wrote each board full on notes before we shot the scene. They had asked me to do the writing as I taught, but I convinced them my handwriting would never be readable! Even kids complain! It wasn't until we started writing on the mirror that we realised how much work it actually was to get the writing to come up clear and bold. It took a fair bit of preptime!

There was also the sweat issue! You can see Nathan behind me with my "sweat dabbing towel" in his hand. The lights were very hot and I was cooking! Sarah had to reapply makeup often. On the second day, they found a very quiet fan that sat on the floor a couple metres in front of me and did an amazing job at cooling me off.

I have such as sense of accomplishment having been through the past two days. It was a lot of detail work (which I'm glad was other people's job!) and then me making sure I had my intro, conclusion and middle bits all ready so we could do the takes as cleanly and quickly as possible. More than half of the 12 segments were done in just one take. The others required fine tuning by the storyteller, too! What an adventure.

Now Cyrus' adventure begins. Today we drive to Orlando, Florida where we will explore the World of Walt Disney! Four days of fun-parks and learning exhibits. We are two very excited boys. But I bet you can guess who is most excited! He's just come out of the shower – my turn.

Then, we drive!

A Story like Tory

2011-10-11T14:01:00.006+10:30

While spending some extra time in the Melbourne airport recently, I met a lovely four-year-old girl named Tory. Tory was with her Mum, Dad and older brother. Tory was talkative, playful and very happy. She absolutely radiated self-confidence and a love for life.

I spent quite awhile talking to Tory, her brother and parents and I saw the way they treated their children. It wasn't hard to notice this couple really enjoyed their kids. Tory's parents didn't treat her any differently than they treated her brother. The kids interacted freely in our conversation and laughed at our banter. They were just normal kids. But, to everyone who walked by, Tory was the centre of attention. She was anything but 'normal'. People stared and smiled. Some people stopped and talked - to Tory, or about Tory to her parents.

Finally, as we boarded the plane to LAX, I noticed Tory and her parents boarding with us - in the cattle cars - long after the first class, business class, premium economy, etc. They could have boarded first - when the announcer always calls, "Any parents with young children or those in need of assistance or extra time to board, please come forward first." But they didn't.

Tory's parents are telling her a powerful story about herself. They are teaching Tory that she is just like everyone else. Yes, she is a dwarf. Yes, she moves slower and is a lot smaller than everyone else. And yes, she is cute beyond belief. But, Tory's parents treat her like a normal kid. And, having spent a few hours observing her, she is just that - a super awesome normal kid!

The story we live in front of our children and the children around us tells them the truth of our lives and theirs. If we see and say the positive stories in life, our kids will see the world as a positive place where they can interact and make a difference.

If, on the other hand, we constantly comment on the negative state of the world, the problem with the neighbours, the unfair hand we've been dealt - our children will learn to be critical and afraid. This is a great way to ensure our children grow up with a judgmental and self-loathing personality. They will see others as dangerous and suspicious rather than unique and beautiful. In our words, our actions and our attitudes toward others – whether they are different in faith, culture or lifestyle – our children are watching us and they are becoming like us.

As family-centred leaders, we need to send positive messages to parents and kids. Tell stories that empower rather than impede. There are so many positive messages in life and in the Bible that raise people up. In our mentoring of teachers, parents and kids we should be seen to be encouraging positive action rather than discouraging negative action.

Teaching kids to be judgmental of others, or at least wary, strengthens the attitude of "us and them". We need to be drawing all men, women and children toward Love. This "drawing toward" comes from the same core leadership desire as "drawing away" but looks, sounds and feels very different. And it most definitely creates different kinds of children and thus a different kind of church.

We are all like Tory - we are all beautifully unique. And we need to tell ourselves that. And tell our children that. The stories we tell, both verbally and with our lives, will either empower the next Generation or limit them. Don't repeat bad news. Tell the Good News. Live with joy and passion. Smile.

Keep changing the world - one story at a time.

USA Storytelling trip with Cyrus - Day 2

2011-10-11T13:52:00.004+10:30

We are in Atlanta and enjoying ourselves. It is now 10:15PM Monday night. When we arrived it was raining and mild with a gentle breeze. It felt a lot like Melbourne!

Our hosts are a lovely retired couple. They have already fed us some lovely food and I've given them copies of all my books. We're getting along great!

Cyrus really wanted to go shopping today rather than sleep so we headed off to the shops (about 15 minute drive) in our rental car. He was asleep when we got there. I woke him and he told me to go do my shopping first and them come wake him. I locked the car and headed into ROSS - a huge discount clothing store.

When I came back, he was so funny! He woke with a start and looked around. He kept looking at everything, turning his head, looking at buildings, at the steering wheel on the wrong side of the car, at the door handle next to him which he tried to grab but missed. Then he looked at me and said, "It's all in the wrong places."

I laughed and asked him if he was getting out. He nodded and said, "Yes!" as if he were very excited. Then he sat there doing nothing. I asked him again. After a few prods, he got out of the car and followed me into the shop.

When we got inside, I said, "You ready to shop?"

He said, "I just want to sleep."

So we went back and both fell into bed. He's still asleep. I reckon he'll go through the night. It was a very long flight! (or set of flights and layovers)!

So, tomorrow we have a rest day and a bit of shopping. Then we get into the filming!

USA Storytelling trip with Cyrus - Day 1.5

2011-10-10T21:34:00.003+10:30

It's a bit crazy to figure out whether this is day one, two or somewhere in the middle!

Cyrus and I left home at 7am Sunday morning and arrived in the Melbourne International Airport at about 8:30am. Thanks to Loren Pratt for dropping us off and storing the car at his place!

Our first flight was four hours late which caused a full scale whiplash effect down the chaos of airline tickets. We left Melbourne around 4pm and, in Sydney ,rushed from one flight to the next.

After 13 hours, we arrived in Los Angeles and got through customs and immigration quickly. We were still 40 minutes behind and were not allowed on our flight to Denver. Instead we were rebooked through Washingtom DC. That flight didn't leave for another 10 hours! Lol... So, we enjoyed laptop, iPad, iPod, food, drinks, chatting and went on a couple walks.

Now we are in DC and it is 7:15am on Monday morning. Doesn't sound too bad, eh? Left Melbourne 4pm Sunday and will arrive in Atlanta at 10:40am Monday. A breeze! Yet, somehow it feels like we've missed two nights sleep!

You know what? It's worth it. Every minute of it! Cyrus and I are laughing, talking, hanging out, playing with our toys. We're two peas in a pod. He's a great kid and I count it an honor to be jet lagged by his side!

CSPS Storytelling Workshop Series

2011-10-08T21:27:00.002+10:30

Calling for storytellers, preachers, teachers and all people interested in communication. Please review the following and give me your ideas, critiques and any help you can!

I have been asked to present a Series of 6 story building and telling workshops to Video for the CSPS (Centre for Secular and Postmodern Studies – of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Church). I'm heading to Atlanta, Georgia tomorrow to do the filming this Wednesday and Thursday.

I have put a rough sketch of each workshop in the following posts. Each 20 minute video will be 10 minutes storytelling and 10 minutes technique teaching. I would love to receive your feedback and guidance so I can adjust my talks to be as useful and effective as possible!

Story Seat = CGCV + STANDS

Books used as resources – Narrative Plot, The One Who Tells the Best Story Wins, The Story Factor, The Revolutionary Communicator, LoveMarks, The Art of storytelling, Super Simple Storytelling, Story Proof, It’s all in how you tell it, Storytelling from the Bible, Enchanted hunters, Improving your storytelling.

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 1. Sermon – Using story in a sermon. Narrative plot building.

2011-10-08T21:25:00.001+10:30

Story: The Dragon Story (Revelation 12)

Teaching: CGCV: Teach basic CGCV model.
Focus - C: Character is story. Focus on the character and the story comes to life.
Typically the Character is a “good guy.” I’ve used the Dragon story to illustrate that the Character can be the “bad guy.”
Character Workshop (separate file)
Narrative Sermon: Oops, Ugh, Aha, Whee, Yeah! (Book: Narrative Plot)

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 2. Small Group – How to use story in a friendship group

2011-10-08T21:24:00.000+10:30

Story: “The BMW Driver” and “Double Click” (Article separate file)

Double Click – Eikon (Icon)
Activity: Draw an Icon representing you (like W for Word, etc)
Story: hitting the BMW
Question: When you get double clicked, what opens up?
Point: As Icon’s of Jesus, we should open a gateway to Him.

Teaching: Fact is Forgotten. Story comes back when you need it. Matt’s story.
CGCV: review basic CGCV model.
Focus - V: Values are the heart of story. Choose one. Just one. Then put it in the actions and mouth of the character. If the Character embodies a strong value the story will be unforgettable!
Teaching Faith: Head knowledge is only part of it. Head, Heart, Hands, Horizon. Teaching faith is values teaching and we must approach faith through as many avenues as possible so that by all means we might save some!

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 3. Educators - Children’s storytellers in church or SS

2011-10-08T21:23:00.001+10:30

Story – Nehemiah – “The Joy of the Lord is your strength”

Teaching: Using the Stage. Introducing an idea to use later.

CGCV: Review basic CGCV model.
Focus: GC – Goals and Conflict
Goal – Main goal: How will the story end? Sub-goal: How will the story mature?
Conflict: What gets between the Character and the Goal? External and Internal.
Nehemiah: Internal conflict – can’t handle weeping people. Flashbacks!
External conflict – unmentioned villans (Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem). Why? Not important to the chosen Value – Joy of the Lord is your Strength.

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 4. Personal Witnessing – The Power of you story

2011-10-08T21:22:00.000+10:30

Story: Interview in Mildura

Teaching: Be yourself – authentic, honest, open. Turn experiences into testimonies.
CGCV/STANDS: Review CGCV. Introduce STANDS.
Focus: ST – Style of Telling. Tell stories your way. Your Style of Telling is authentically you and rings true to the listener. Be yourself.
Teach positive attributes: hope, love, generosity, compassion.
Story: People of the Map. Be bold sharing what you have. Share yourself and your faith authentically, honestly and openly – your way!
6 Stories of influence

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 5. Personal Bible Studies – Guided discussion

2011-10-08T21:21:00.000+10:30

Story: Riding the Spirit (Article – separate file)

Teaching: Your Christory is your most powerful communication tool. Use it well!
Christory: Where your story and Christ’s Story work together.
CGCV: review basic CGCV model. Then STANDS.
Focus: AN – Audience’s Needs. Listen first. Then speak.
3 Keys to Listening:
1. Suspend Judgement (Café’ Sabbath story)
2. Empathise with them (put yourself in their shoes-they are the character
in their own story. Get to know the character before you respond
to the story!)
3. Reflective listening (This is what I heard. Is this correct?)
Once you understand the needs of the audience you can ask “Where will I apply my influence? What story will I tell to touch that part of their story?”

CSPS Storytelling Workshop 6. Educators – Youth pastors, school teachers, SS teachers

2011-10-08T21:15:00.001+10:30

Story: Week of Prayer “I wanna See Jesus!” (Tell week in a nutshell)
When telling stories to children honour both their innocence and their trust. They will believe you. Never underestimate the power of their imagination.
Little boy: end of WOP – Pr Dave, what did Jesus look like?
He believed my story. He wanted it to be true. So, I gave him an answer in which it could be true.
“Little man,” I said, “We were using our imaginations this morning. I haven’t seen Jesus yet. The moment I see Him, you will see Him too! We will all know what He looks like at the same time!”

Teaching: Series are a great way to create memories. Repetition: Catch phrases, songs, Developing themes, build momentum toward conclusion (“I want to see Jesus!”)
CGCV/STANDS: Review.
Focus - DS: Details of the Story. Know your Characters. Know your Value. Know the Goals the character has. Know the Conflict between the character and their goals. Be specific. Drive to your destination! Don’t tell the details that aren’t necessary.
Memorize the story? NO! Write out and memorize the first sentences and the final sentences. Starting well and finishing well are important. The story in the middle can be shaped as you tell it. Every story is unique – Now and New – tell it where you are and to who they are.

Six Stories of Influence

2011-10-06T08:49:00.002+10:30

Annette Simmons, in her book "Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins", shares 6 stories of influence. She challenges the reader to "mindfully tell stories that create the kind of results you'd like to see at work, in your family, and in your community."

The six types of stories are:

1. Who I am

2. Why I am here

3. Teaching

4. Vision

5. Value in Action

6. I know what you are thinking

For more, download her book by clicking on the title of this blog post. I've linked it to Amazon.

LIfe's Toughest Question

2011-10-04T22:29:00.002+10:30

Once, the great Hassidic leader, Zusia, came to his followers. His eyes were red with tears, and his face was pale with fear.

"Zusia, what's the matter? You look frightened!"

"The other day, I had a vision. In it, I learned the question that the angels will one day ask me about my life."

The followers were puzzled. "Zusia, you are pious. You are scholarly and humble. You have helped so many of us. What question about your life could be so terrifying that you would be frightened to answer it?"

Zusia turned his gaze to heaven. "I have learned that the angels will not ask me, 'Why weren't you a Moses, leading your people out of slavery?'"

His followers persisted. "So, what will they ask you?"

"And I have learned," Zusia sighed, "that the angels will not ask me, 'Why weren't you a Joshua, leading your people into the promised land?'"

One of his followers approached Zusia and placed his hands on Zusia's shoulders. Looking him in the eyes, the follower demanded, "But what will they ask you?"

"They will say to me, 'Zusia, there was only one thing that no power of heaven or earth could have prevented you from becoming.' They will say, 'Zusia, why weren't you Zusia?'"

Spiritual Mentoring

2011-10-02T16:25:00.002+10:30

It is so important to remember each person on Earth is on a spiritual journey. Rushing it is missing it. Far to many of us leapfrog from big experience to big experience and fail to take joy in the journey. Every step is blessed.

The highs and lows are easily remembered, but there are precious moments each and every day. Teach children to savour the journey. Without a doubt, the best way to teach this is to enjoy the journey yourself. We need to truly enjoy our lives. Live with purpose and bliss. Live honestly and joyfully. Invite your own children or the children you have influence over to enjoy the journey with you. And when there are steps to be taken, take them together - hand in hand and heart to heart.

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Friday

2011-10-02T15:37:00.002+10:30

Character: Jesus and Me

Theme: Jesus knows you and loves you

Message: Jesus pays careful attention to our lives and loves us. He is there through the easy and the tough times and is very proud of us. He loves to tell our story!

STORIES

First I ask Jesus: "What is your favourite story of all time?"

Jesus laughs and says there are too many stories to choose from. He loves them all! We talk about the stories we have learned so far this week. He adds bits to each story, telling His favourite part.

Then, I ask, "Well what about RIGHT NOW? What is your favourite story RIGHT NOW?"

Jesus smiles and says, "Oh, that's easy! My favourite story right now is about a little boy who was born on October 7, 1972 in a town Redding. He grew up with a brother and two sisters and two parents who loved me very much."
"Hey!" I say in amazement, "That's me!"

Jesus nods, smiling, waiting for it to sink in...

"You mean," I say, getting it, "My story is your favourite story RIGHT NOW?!?"

"Of course it is," Jesus says, "because I am talking to YOU right now! Would you like me to tell you my favourite parts of your story?"

I nod excitedly, "YES! What are your favourite parts of my life?"

Then Jesus tells three stories:

1. Picnic in Heaven

When I was four and talked to my Gma on the phone. It was Sabbath and we had just been listening to Heritage Kids and the song "picnic in Heaven" was stuck in my head. When it was my turn to talk to Grandma, I said, "Grandma, did you know there is going to be a picnic in Heaven?"

She replied, "Yes, Davy. Won't that be nice?" My grandma was raised a Christian but had stopped going to church or even following Jesus when she got married because her husband said he didn't want any "God stuff" in his house. She reaised her kids with no prayers, no Bible stories and no talking about Jesus.

"Grandma," I continued, "The song says there's gonna be Watermelon. And there'll be enough even for you! Are you gonna be at the picnic in Heaven?"

Grandma went very quiet on the phone. "I hope so, Davy. You better put your mommy back on the phone."

Jesus then tells me, "This was the first time you challenged someone to think about their relationship with Me. And you didn't even know you were doing it! God works through everyone willing to speak for Him. And you were willing and ready!"

2. I Can't Die!

I once told my Mom I couldn't die. I have written this story as a Children's story and posted it sometime ago under the title Invicible Davy. You can read the story on this link and then come back here to read how I used it in this setting.

Jesus tells me, "I was proud of both you and your mom. Your Mom had taught you about the great plans I have for your life. And you believed her! That made me soooo happy!"

3. Baptism

Jesus tells me that his favourite day of my entire life was the day I was baptised. I ask him why that day was so special? What about all the times I have told stories to kids? What about all the people I have preached to? What about the books I have written? Jesus just smiled and said, "Nothing compares to the moment when you stood in that pool of water and told the watching universe, 'I love Jesus and want to follow Him forever!' We threw such a party here in Heaven that day!"

Then I tell the kids, "Jesus, His father, the Holy Spirit and all the angels love parties and they throw one everytime someone is baptised!"

Conclusion

This is the Friday talk and is the culmination of the "I Want to See Jesus" week. It is so very important to give kids a chance to respond.

Finally, after all the stories, I ask, "Isn't that exciting? Jesus has a party planned for the day of your baptism! Did you know that Jesus loves you so much he tells your story to others? One day you will be able to ask Him to tell it to you! Who wants to hear Jesus tell you His favourite parts of your story?"

Most of the kids will raise their hands.

We want to give you a chance to tell us how we can help you take your next step toward Jesus' plan for your life.

Then, depending on the school, camp or setting, I explain the sheet they will fill in which will be given to their chaplain or pastor.

I have done this "I Want to See Jesus!" week at two schools now.

At Heritage College (Primary) there are now over 130 students in Bible Studies with their chaplain, many preparing for baptism.

At Edinbourgh Adventist Primary School, around 50 kids chose to be baptised. Their chaplain will begin studies with them soon.

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Thursday

2011-09-11T12:29:00.001+09:30

Character: Peter

Theme: Jesus’ humility makes us humble too.

Message: Humility comes to those who walk with Jesus.

STORIES:

Walking on water – When I first meet Peter I say, “Oh, I know you’re story! You walked on water! Right?” He agrees but says there were even more amazing things that happened while following Jesus. The thing about Jesus that is really important to me is that He changed me from a self-centred person to a person who cared about others more than myself. Jesus was Humble and being around Him made me become humble too!

Called to be a Disciple – When he called me, I was a nobody. I wasn’t a good enough student to stay in Rabbi School. I was a fisherman, like my dad and brother. Then Jesus came along and called us to follow him – just like a Rabbi would. He thought we were good enough. We were the kind of followers Jesus was looking for. We were disciple-material after all! Jesus chose humble people because He was a humble leader.

Who is the Son of Man? – Jesus said Peter’s answer came straight from God. Peter gets puffed up and proud of himself. Then, just moments later, Jesus starts his death talk again. Peter pulls Jesus aside and says, “You’ve gotta stop this crazy death talk! You are not gonna die! You are the messiah! You will lead us in overthrowing the Romans and then you will reign forever as our KING!” Jesus says, “Get behind me Satan!” Peter reflects, “I went from speaking for God to speaking for the Devil in a few minutes! That really humbled me! I learned I need to check with Jesus before believing anything!” Jesus speaks to and through those who listen humbly to his voice.

Denying Jesus – Three times Peter was accused of being part of Jesus’ movement. Each time he argued. Then he heard the rooster crow and realized he had done exactly what Jesus said he would. His heart broke. He ran away. He knew he would never be a true believer of Jesus. Then Jesus died. Then Jesus Mary came running into the room where the disciples were sitting and said, “He’s alive! Jesus is alive and he told me to ‘go tell the disciples and especially tell Peter’ that he IS ALIVE!” Jesus wanted Peter to know He was alive. And he wanted Peter to know that he still included him with the disciples. Jesus calls broken people who think they have gone to far against Him. He calls then to himself!

Do you love me? – Just before he went back to Heaven, Jesus went on a walk with Peter. He asked him three times, “Do you love me?” Each time, Peter said yes. Then Jesus told Peter to look after his sheep, lambs, etc. – to care for the followers Jesus would leave behind when He went to Heaven. On the third time, Peter cried. Three times he had denied knowing Jesus. Three times Jesus had renewed their love by encouraging Peter to declare his Love. Jesus is not so big that he cannot reclaim us no matter how small we think we are! Jesus forgives those who humble themselves in His sight.

Kill and eat! – Peter’s final call to humility came after Jesus had left, after the Holy Spirit had come, after the Christian church had started growing. While praying on the roof of a friend’s house he had a vision of a sheet coming down from heaven filled with all kinds of unclean animals. “Kill and Eat” the voice of Jesus boomed. “SURELY NOT!” Peter argued. “I don’t eat that stuff. It is impure and unclean!” The voice spoke again, “Do not call anything unclean that God has made clean!” The sheet came down three times and the conversation repeated. Then three men showed up at the front door asking for Peter. They were sent by a Roman Centurian who believed in God to ask Peter to come share his story with the Roman. Peter understood the vision – The message of Jesus was not for only Jewish people like himself. Romans and everyone in the world were to be included in the Kingdom of God! True humility sees no one as better than anyone else. Those who truly dwell in the Kingdom of God are humble and include everyone in fairness and equality.

CONCLUSION:

All this talk of Humility reminds me of the guy I met Monday. His name was Micah. He taught me a song. It was about Justice, Mercy and Humility. Tuesday I met a Roman soldier who taught me about the Justice of Jesus. Yesterday, I met Mary and she taught me that Jesus truly loved mercy!

Sing theme song

Peter says, “Yes, Jesus was humble and called me to be humble. He made me who I am! He treated me with humility over and over and over. His humble way of forgiving, including and loving others changes the world – one person at a time!”

“Thank you for telling me your story.
I have enjoyed meeting you. But I want to see Jesus. Have you seen Him?
Yes, Jesus is very near. Just before you, he was here!”

To kids: “Thank you for singing with me! I really must go!
I want to see Jesus!”

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Wednesday

2011-09-11T11:20:00.000+09:30

Character: Mary Magdalene

Theme: Jesus loved Mercy

Message: Jesus protected the weak, forgave their sins, healed their hurts and lead them to God’s Kingdom.

STORIES:

Caught in the act – Jesus is teaching a crowd on the temple steps in the early morning light. Mean men throw a woman at his feet: “Jesus, we just caught this woman doing something very naughty! The Law of Moses says she should be killed! What do you say?!?” Jesus drives away accusers with silent scribbling. Where are your accusers? I don’t accuse you either! Jesus loves to be merciful to people who have done the wrong thing.

Martha is cooking while Mary sits at the feet of Jesus - being discipled in the ways of the Kingdom. Jesus protects hearts that need to hear stories. Mary is doing what is most important for her right now – listening to the stories of the Kingdom she has just discovered! Jesus loves to be merciful to people who are becoming his disciples.

Anointing Jesus in Simon’s house – Mary has heard Jesus say he will die. While others think he is speaking in Kingdom metaphors or just being morbid, Mary believes Him. She saves enough money to buy the best perfume for his burial. But she can’t wait. She pours it out at a party. She anoints his feet and head. Simon thinks bad things about Mary and what she is doing. Jesus protects her again – this time from those who believe they know how true faith should look and act. Simon’s two thoughts – 1. If Jesus knew what kind of woman that was, he would never let her touch Him. 2. If She really believes in Jesus’ Kingdom message, she should sell that expensive perfume and give the money to the poor. Jesus says, “You haven’t washed my feet or hands. This woman bathes my feet with her tears. The poor will always be here. I will not. Mary knows and believes this. She has done the right thing!” Jesus loves to be merciful to people who live their faith with brave honesty.

The Cross and the Tomb – Mary watches Jesus die. Follows his body to the tomb. Sunday morning she returns to the tomb with more perfume – to make his body smell nice. When she arrives at the tomb, her thoughts move from “how will I get the stone away?” to “Where has the body gone?” She is distraught at finding the empty, folded sheets that were wrapped around Jesus. She is crying when she comes out of the tomb. She sees a gardener: “Do you know where they’ve moved the body?” Tears, sobs, “I’ve come to anoint my Lord’s body and it’s gone! Please tell me, where has it gone?” The Gardener says, “Mary, do not weep!” Her head jerks up at that voice. Jesus continues, “Go and tell the disciples I am alive. Tell Peter especially. Tell them Jesus is alive!” Jesus loves to be merciful to people who are broken hearted. He has good news for them!

CONCLUSION:
All this talk of Mercy reminds me of the guy I met Monday. His name was Micah. He taught me a song. It was about Justice, Mercy and Humility. Yesterday I met a Roman soldier who taught me about the Justice of Jesus.

Sing theme song

Mary says, “Yes, Jesus loved Mercy. He treated me with mercy over and over and over. He is the most loving and merciful person I’ve ever met!”

“Thank you for telling me your story.
I have enjoyed meeting you. But I want to see Jesus. Have you seen Him?
Yes, Jesus is very near. Just before you, he was here!”
Retell the key people and message of previous days
finish with Micah’s message
Sing theme song
To kids: “Thank you for singing with me! I really must go!
I want to see Jesus!”

walk off stage

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Tuesday

2011-09-06T20:29:00.001+09:30

Character: Malcus - Centurion at the Cross
Theme: Jesus was all about Justice
Message: Jesus taught peaceful political strength. Jesus taught and brought Justice.

DAILY INTRO:
I went on a walk
in my imagination
and when I arrived
in the part of my mind
where memorized scripture is stored
I found
myself
in the Kingdom of God
walking on Streets of Gold
and I really must tell you
about someone I met
on that road
His name was Malcus.

Malcus tells story of seeing Jesus crucified.
Forgave soldiers. "forgive them father"
Promised salvation to thief. "you will be with me in paradise."
Cared for mother. "John, your mum. Mum, your son!"
Cried out with broken heart. "why have you forsaken me?"
Darkness. 3 hours. Light. "it is finished!"
Died. Malcus said, "Truly this man is the Son of God."

That's when I knew I believed in him. But, his death was not the only amazing thing about Jesus. He cared about people so deeply! And he taught things that threatened to turn our world upside down.

Jesus was a radical revolutionary of peaceful justice:

Pompous Entry: Pontius Pilate entered the west gate each year at the beginning of Passover to remind the Jews who was in charge. Swords, spears, helmets, mounted soldiers, foot soldiers - all gleaming in the sun. And Pilate rode at the head of the imperial army declaring his reign of power and might.
Triumphal entry: the same day, Jesus entered the east gate on a young donkey - his followers laying clothes and palm branches in his path. He smiled and waved at his friends. This entering king was bringing a kingdom of peace.

Clearing the temple: Who did he think he was? Jarod wanted to keep an eye on this man during the Passover week. I was assigned to follow him from the on.

Paying taxes: Is it right to pay taxes to Ceasar?
Show me a coin. Face of Ceasar. Inscription: "Son of god"
Whose face? Give to Ceasar what is Ceasars. But give to God what is Gods!
(everything belongs to God! And what are you doing with a graven image in your pocket? Especially one that has blasphemy on it!)

Turn the other Cheek: left hand never used to touch other people or food. In the middle east, even today, the left is the "poo" hand.
Right cheek = backhand (superior striking slave)
Left cheek = forehand (how you hit an equal in a fair fight)
Jesus wasn't telling his followers to go around asking to get smacked in the face. He was teaching them to peacefully challenge unjust authority. "you want to hit me like I'm a slave? Fine, hit me. Now hit me again the way I really am - your equal!"

Sued for your coat? Give your robe as well: Only the poorest of the poor would pay a debt by giving their coat. It meant they had nothing else to use as payment. Only a cruel person would ask for your cloak - knowing you would be cold without it. Whenever a tax collector accepted a cloak it was his way of saying, "you are so poor that you aren't even worth keeping alive! I hope you die of frostbite."
Jesus said, "Take off your robe and give it too." What would the man be wearing? Nothing! Being naked would be embarrassing for the naked man, but even more embarrassing for the tax collector who caused it. Everyone would look down on the tax collector for making a man get undressed in public.
Again, Jesus was teaching his followers how to peacefully resist unjust authority. By offering your robe as well you threatened to embarrass the tax collector. "I'll take it off! I will! Want my robe? It's only fair. I owe you more than what I can pay. I'll take it off!"
NO NO NO please NO!
And to those listening to Jesus' advice, they got the message: Look what the Romans are doing to us. They are stripping us bare!

Second mile: Soldiers were allowed to ask a peasant to carry their gear for a mile. And no more. The law had been made because soldiers were making peasants carry their bags all day and then the peasant missed an entire day of work and was a day's walk away from home in the evening which meant it would take another day to get home. This caused the Romans to loose money in taxes and workers in the field. So they made the law to control the soldiers.
If a peasant carried the gear a mile as they were required, they were doing their duty. If they offered to go a second mile they were offering a kindness. But, they were also making the soldier take a risk of getting in trouble. "That soldier made me carry this bag 3 miles!" YOU WHAT? "But he said he wanted too!" YOU TWIT! AS IF HE WOULD SAY THAT! YOU'VE BROKEN THE LAW!
Again, Jesus was teaching his followers to peacefully resist unjust leaders by messing with the system. An offer of generosity messed up the imperial order of things!

Love your enemies: Then Jesus said, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." So tell me, who's that? US! Love the Romans. Pray for them. And peacefully refuse to be treated as slaves. Jesus was leading a revolt of peaceful justice and he had every leader in a hundred miles scared. The Jewish leaders wanted him dead, the Roman leaders wanted him dead. And yet he didn't do anything wrong. He just spoke truth in a mighty powerful way!

CONCLUSION:
All this talk of justice reminds me of the guy I met yesterday. His name was Micah. He taught me a song about Justice.
Micah’s message
Sing theme song

“Thank you for telling me your story.
I have enjoyed meeting you. But I want to see Jesus. Have you seen Him?
Yes, Jesus is very near. Just before you, he was here!”
Retell the key people and message of previous days
finish with Micah’s message
Sing theme song
To kids: “Thank you for singing with me! I really must go!
I want to see Jesus!”
walk off stage

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Monday

2011-09-06T20:05:00.001+09:30

Character: Micah
Theme: Golden Rule
Message: God knows His people. They are about Justice, Compassion and Humility in faith.

Stories by Micah:
Micah has been walking around heaven talking to people. Looking for the common thing between all the people who are here. He asks, "What is your story?" I asked for his favourite story and he told me the story of:

The Good Man: asked Jesus "what must I do to go to Heaven?"
Jesus: "What have you been taught?"
Man: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself."
Jesus: "Well said! Do this and you will live!"
Man: "Who is my neighbour?"
Parable: Good Samaritan - "Who was the Neighbour to the wounded man? Be like him!"
Micah: "Jesus simplified it that much! If you help someone who is hurting, you take a step toward Heaven!"

Micah: "Jesus loved saying, 'Do unto others what you wish they would do to you!"

Conclusion
Micah: "This story and many stories about Jesus surprised me. Why? Because I said something very similar more that 2500 years ago when I was a prophet.”

Song:
He hath shown thee oh man what is good
and what does the Lord require of thee
but to do justly
and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with thy God.

What does it mean?
Do justly: help others. Protect others. Don't let people hurt others.
Love mercy: forgive others. Love others. Be kind at all times.
Walk humbly: respect God and others. Humble yourself. God will lift you up.

Me: Thank you for telling me your story. I have enjoyed meeting you. But I want to see Jesus. Have you seen Him?
Micah: Yes, Jesus is very near. Just before you, he was here!
Me: I really must go! I want to see Jesus! (leave stage)

"I Want to See Jesus!" Week of Biblical Storytelling - Template

2011-09-06T19:57:00.001+09:30

Title: I Want to See Jesus
Theme: The message and miracle of Jesus reveals the greatest life we can live.
Key Text: Micah 6:8 - “God has shown you what is good: to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.” (my own rendering)
Theme Song: Micah 6:8

DAILY INTRO:
I went for a walk
in my imagination
and when I arrived
in the part of my mind
where memorized scripture is stored
I found
myself
in the Kingdom of God
walking on streets of gold
and I really must tell you
about someone I met
on that road

DAILY CONCLUSION:
“Thank you for telling me your story. I have enjoyed meeting you. But I want to see Jesus. Have you seen Him?"
"Yes, Jesus is very near. Just before you, he was here!”
Retell the key people and message of previous days
finish with Micah’s message
Sing Micah 6:8 theme song
To kids: “Thank you for singing with me! I really must go! I want to see Jesus!”
Run off stage

Road Trip Diary - Day 13 & 14

2011-08-18T18:40:00.002+09:30

I left sunny Cooroy at 6AM Tuesday morning and spent the day driving to Dubbo. What a beautiful drive! The ranges, valleys, little towns, open plains. So varied and enjoyable. About 6PM I rolled into Dubbo and discovered something unexpected...

Everything was booked! Every bed in all 68 Motels/Hotels & Caravan parks in Dubbo was full. By the time I realised this, the towns around started filling up. When I returned to the Caravan Park and booked a tent site at 8PM there wasn't a bed available within 100kms of Dubbo! Luckily I had a camp chair and table with me. So, I set up and ate mu Hungry Jacks while answering a day's worth of emails and Facebook messages. Then, I climbed in the car, wrapped myself in the blanket the Caravan Park man loaned me, laid my seat back, rested my head on the pillow also loaned to me and slept for 7 hours with only the occasional realisation that I was in a bucket seat, not a bed!

The next morning I had an early shower (with a borrowed towel!) and headed to McDonalds for breakfast. When I got there, and went online, I received a real shock. An email from Westpac...

During my night sleeping in the Mini someone else was busily charging things on my credit card. Nearly $10,000 in just a few hours! So, the bank saw the anomaly and emailed rather than calling do to the time of day. I called them immediately and was blown away by their service. I called at 7:10AM and everything was fully resolved by 7:45. They cancelled the card, went through the account and picked out every false charge and emailed me a document to review the fraudulent transactions, sign and send back. I sent that back today (as Jenny had to sign it).

After getting off the phone with Westpac, I headed over to Dubbo Christian School and spent the morning with 500 great kids! They have a huge hall that seats the entire school. The whole school assembled and I told them the story of 2 Kings 6 - Elisha capturing the entire army of Aram. It's a ripper story!

Next I headed to the library and ran a "Little Authors" workshop for 100 students (grade 3-6). It was great fun! The story they created as a group was wonderful. I hope a few of them write it!

Chatting afterward leaded to a few sales and then a big order! Well over 30 books! I was one happy boy when I hopped back in the Mini and finished the drive home.

I pulled into my driveway at home at 10:10PM. Home sweeeeeet home!

END Road Trip

Road Trip Diary - Day 12 - Book Launch

2011-08-15T20:11:00.002+09:30

Today, Nathan Brown and I launched "28 Stories" in the morning meeting. The South Pacific Division and Signs Publishing Company worked together to provide 700 copies for the attendees. Everyone present at the convention was given a free copy!

I have never signed so many books in one day. I am pretty sure I signed over 300 books. In each I wrote:

Dear "NAME"

This is your story!

David Edgren (signature)

There were so many very happy people! Book are very expensive in the islands. In Papua New Guinea the currency is 1/3 the Aussie dollar. And in the Solomon Islands it is 1/3 the PNG currency. So, a book that is $25 here is nearly $200 Solomon dollars. This is more than many islanders make in a week. So, a free book is a awesome gift!

I was very honoured and proud to be involved in such and empowering gesture of good will!

I am looking forward to hearing the stories of how "28 Stories" has been of use in churches, youth groups, schools and more!

Road Trip Diary - Day 10 & 11 - Move with The Power 3

2011-08-14T21:35:00.003+09:30

Well, the first two days of MWTP3 have passed. There are 700 youth leaders from every corner of the division attending this training weekend filled with workshops, worship and sermons by numerous well known preachers. Most of the attendees are from the islands - Solomons, PNG, Fiji, NZ, and more. About 1/5 are from Australia.

It is very heartening to see how much trust our young leaders put in their division youth department. Each of the islanders have spent an amazing amount money to come to this event. I hope they are getting all they need to fully empower the youth they will return to.

Yesterday afternoon, I attended Nathan Brown's workshop: "What is right with the Emerging Church." It was a very interesting and encouraging conversation.

This morning, when the ABC opened, Nathan and I went in and got a copy of the 28 Stories journal. It was the first time I had seen the finished product. It looks amazing! Tomorrow morning we are giving a copy to every person at MPWTP3. Hopefully some of them put it to good use in their youth ministry at home!

Road Trip Diary - Day 9

2011-08-14T21:17:00.002+09:30

Friday morning was great fun! I went to the Noosa Christian School in Cooroy, Qld. First period the primary school students entered the chapel and I told them stories about the golden rule and treating others as equals.

The next period, I spoke to the high school students in chapel about the history of the golden rule and the joy of reading the Bible for the story and truth it contains.

After the chapels were finished, the principal gave me a tour of the beautiful new library built thanks to a $2 Million grant from the government. It is a truly remarkable building!

For the next hour or so, I wandered around the school during recess talking to kids and teachers. Then I returned to my Dad's house where I relaxed for the rest of the day. It was nice to have a day without a long drive!

Road Trip Diary - Day 8

2011-08-11T20:21:00.000+09:30

I did not know how beautiful Lismore is! With rolling hillsides and a river meandering through, the town is dotted with bridges and parks. To get to Blue Hills College you travel up a steep hillside road to the top of the world and descend into a lovely glade in which the school is tucked. Such beauty!

My first visit today was with the Primary Principal/Librarian who happily purchased a set of my books for the school library. So far, every school I have visited has taken a set of books for the students to read. This makes it really easy to recommend the books to the classes. First I show them the books then I tell them their library now has them. They get so excited!

For the first hour of the day, I joined the combined year 5 and 6 classes for the story seat workshop. In the story seat workshop I first teach the CGCV concept I explained in the Day 7 Diary and then I give them “the legs a storyteller STANDS on” … The two sections together (CGCV and STANDS) create a diagram of a three legged stool or seat. I’ll take a picture of the board the next time I teach it, so I can post it here.

The legs of the seat – the legs a storyteller ST-AN-DS on are the three things a person must know to be a great storyteller. They are: ST – your Style of Telling; AN – your Audience’s Needs; and DS – the Details of the Story. When you have a good understanding of all three of these things, you become a fully confident storyteller.

After the story seat workshop, I visited 3 classrooms – 4, 3, and combined kinder/pre-kinder, In each, I told the story of Hillel who gave the “one foot Law” to a young sceptic. You can read the story in “The Kingdom Scroll” in the chapter titled “One Foot Law.” This story is my favourite way to teach the Golden Rule.

Once I was done talking to kids, I visited the library and then hopped in the car and headed to sunny Queensland. Now, I am safely residing in my Dad’s holiday home in Cooroy. Tomorrow I visit one more school and then head to the opening night of “Move with the Power III” – Another great day coming up!