The day with dianne Louise

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.” Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ We have a choice when someone says they will do something: believe them or not. Our ability to believe them depends on their trustworthiness, our experience with them and mindset. The disciples knew Jesus kept His word, however Jesus tended to talk in parables and it was difficult for them to comprehend. The next problem was the Jewish mindset was and still is: the Messiah will come as a warrior king. He will deliver them from their enemies. The scripture in Isaiah 53 talking about Him being sacrificed for them, they do not recognise or understand, without divine insight, much like anybody else. To a self-made man or woman these verses can be nonsense. It is not until the Holy Spirit captures you and reveals sin and a need for repentance do you have ears to hear. We westerners have the same choices today. Will we continue to roll with the Easter egg nonsense and be content, or...

“For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Having a testimony about the work of the cross in our lives is imperative. Little things can be a testimony. I recently discovered that our Hindu landlord and his family love the singing that comes up through our roof into their flat. We are constantly singing church choruses, laughing and praying. The joy of the Lord resonates in our lives and we therefore take it into our outside world. Our neighbours across the narrow street we live in are higher up than us and are ever watchful. They are fascinated with our comings and goings. We have begun to go to the small store just down from us for milk and small provisions. The people there are fascinated by us. Who know what the Holy Spirit is doing in the lives around us. Just around the corner is a man who builds furniture. We had him extend our small step so we could reach the keyhole that...

“For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.” Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Why is the ‘for’ there? It tells of something that came before, and more after: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Romans‬ ‭6‬:‭4‬, ‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ As we celebrate Easter how can we stay trapped in sin? How can we look at Jesus and what He suffered and say: “it is not enough”? His suffering was more than enough for all of us for all time. We must choose to believe and walk away fro the sin that so easily traps us and run the race set before us. By the power of the Holy Spirit He is more than e...

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬ There are times when we know we have need of mercy, and then there are times we are oblivious to our need, but still that sweet grace flows to us. For me when I receive grace and know my sin I am so grateful. Undeserving as I can be it still is there for me. I can sing with John Newton Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I have just spent time with a friend whose husband is battling an addiction. He will know the depth of our saviour’s amazing grace as he navigates rehab and has a team of people praying for him. What a day to die to self and come to the cross in repentance. What a day to receive amazing grace. Grace, amazing grace rescues us and liberates us from the clutches of hell. Praise You Jesus!

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Today we remember the cross. Our Jesus was brutally beaten and a rough wooden cross was laid upon His back for Him to carry. He was nailed to that cross and mercilessly jolted into a hole in the ground and hung gasping for breath. He was then given all our sin which crushed Him, and as His Father turned away from Him He died alone. He asked our Father to forgive us for we do not know what we do. We crucified Him with our rejection of His purity and holiness. We, in our lives of sin nailed Him to the cross. How beauti...

“I am your Lord and Teacher. But I washed your feet. So you also should wash each other’s feet.” ‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬ ‭ERV‬‬ Serving others does not come, with a willingness, easily. A servant heart has to be cultivated. Scripture tells us Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered. He was despised and rejected by the religious leaders and ultimately killed by them. Here, in the above scripture He is teaching His disciples to serve one another and not seek position and lordship. He is our example. Although He was God He did not seek equality with God but lowered Himself. The ability to serve comes from a heart that knows who it belongs to and what it’s purpose is. Jesus knew who He served and why He came. May we be humble enough to serve and not seek position. Amen!

“I am your Lord and Teacher. But I washed your feet. So you also should wash each other’s feet.” John‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬ ‭ERV‬‬ Jesus is about to be handed over to the rabble to be crucified, but He takes time to teach the disciples a valuable lesson. There has been a constant vying for attention and one-upmanship amongst the apostles. Even at this juncture they still wanted lordship. After the crucifixion the disciples would resonate with the humility Jesus displayed. His greatest gift to them was His life. Dying a sinner’s death was the greatest sacrifice. Do you find yourself struggling for position? Where does the struggle come from? James tells us that fights and squabbles come from us wanting what we do not have. He says that we do not have them because we do not ask and when we ask we ask with impure motives (James 4:1-17). As we approach Easter let us examine our motives? What drives us? Are our motives pure? Do we seek to serve or are we wanting to rule over others? Let us think on th...

“The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Jesus was called the Son of Man when it referred to Him being in human flesh. He was about to die as a man, a perfect man, the perfect sacrifice for us who are imperfect and sinful. Jesus knew what prophesy said about Him and He also knew what the people, without illumination, said about Him. He came to obey the Father and heed what the Father said about Him. Jesus was not distracted by men’s opinions. He steeled Himself like flint for the task ahead. Even so, He prayed three times for another way. His final statement however, was, ‘not My will but Yours be done’. May we be so obedient! Amen

“While they were eating, he said, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me.” Greatly distressed, each one asked in turn, “Am I the one, Lord?” He replied, “One of you who has just eaten from this bowl with me will betray me. For the Son of Man must die, as the Scriptures declared long ago. But how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him. It would be far better for that man if he had never been born!” Judas, the one who would betray him, also asked, “Rabbi, am I the one?” And Jesus told him, “You have said it.” Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭21‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Judas was publicly unmasked, yet, still he proceeded with his unholy deed. Here he had an opportunity to repent and be forgiven. However, had he repented would we now have our saviour? We know that the Pharisees were intent on killing Jesus and would have found another way. For Judas to be eternally known as betrayer, how sad! We are all given an opportunity to repent. I was told a few days ago of a Christian who reported an organisa...

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” ‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ To receive you first have to ask. Jesus had many people come to Him and ask for healing, and they received it. Some had amazing faith. Two of these were not Jewish. His disciples asked for position, however, Jesus said this was not his brief, the Father gave position. What are we asking the Lord for? Jesus taught us how to pray in the Lord’s Prayer we see: praise the Father, welcome His kingdom and will in our lives; provision for daily need; forgiveness as we are willing to forgive and protection from the enemy of our soul. Nowhere here was wants, position, or things. Jesus said, “whatever you ask the Father in My name shall be done for you.” Was it a given that we would pray according to kingdom priorities? Jesus also said, “seek first the kingdom of God and all these other things shall be given unto you!” What are the other things? Food, clothes, ...

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” ‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Jesus had cursed the fig tree and it withered up from the roots. The disciples are amazed and Jesus tells them the above verse. Interestingly, the verse after has to do with forgiveness: “ And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Forgiveness or unforgiveness can aid or hinder our prayers. We must be mindful of forgiveness at all times. How we treat others we are treated. Being forgiven by God the Father is important and not something to dismiss. Arrogance on our part will block our access to the power of God, humility will open the way. Amen!

“You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” John‬ ‭12‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Jesus was remonstrating with Judas for his dismissal and offence at Mary’s seemingly wasteful use of expensive perfume when she poured it over Jesus’ feet, and wiped it off with her hair. Just as He appreciated the love that was carried with Mary’s act and he also knew Judas’ heart attitude, Judas did not care for the poor. Jesus was also right, we always will have the poor. There are people who cannot or will not help themselves, but there are also those who circumstances keep them poor. Many in Nepal, especially the lower caste, are kept in poverty by the actions of others and a mindset that sees this as their lot. The poor need others to help them. There are millions in refugee camps in parts of the world. War stole their homes and their families. Famine robs the poor of the ability to make a living. Persecution keeps the poor in their holes. However, this lesson is about Jesus. He was ...

“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” John‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Mary had just poured an expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped it with her hair. Judas had complained that it should have been sold and money given to the poor. He said this not because he cared for the poor but was a thief. Now if a woman did this to a prominent church leader today she would be considered simple or weird. Jesus did not see her as so but rather a loving disciple who cared deeply. He defended her. May we care as she did. Her deed will always be remembered. Will lot love be so noted? As we approach Easter let us reflect and consider what Jesus actual did for us and worship with gratitude. Amen!

“The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” John‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Hosanna means ‘save’ in Hebrew. The crowd recognised Jesus as saviour and deliverer from an oppressive regime. Even the disciples did not recognise Him as saviour from sin until after His resurrection. When Jesus rode on the donkey’s colt He fulfilled a prophesy from Zechariah 9:9. A lot of the people who were now shouting Hosanna had been at Lazarus’ tomb in Bethany where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, not far from Jerusalem. There was also a large amount of people from outside Jerusalem who had come to celebrate the Passover.  Jesus the talked about the fact that He will be crucified. The crowd did not understand because they claimed that scripture said the Messiah would live forever. Yet, ...

“If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” Esther‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Positions are given by the Lord. May we be mindful as we function in those position. We did not get them because we are the best but because He is the best and blesses us. Being available helps as well. I am a child of the king and am here for His delight. I know I can spread His joy, that is what I aim to do. Joy is lacking in our world and it is not dependent on good things happening.  Spread the joy! Amen!

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬ This verse is part of uncle Mordacai’s message to his neice Queen Esther. The enemy of the Jewish people, a man called Haman, had obtained permission from the King, Xerxes, Esther’s husband, to destroy the Jews. When Mordacai discovered the plot he went to Esther and asked her to petition the king on their behalf. Esther was aware of the ruling that if the king did not call for you and you appeared unannounced you could die. Her battle was with self-preservation. We are given positions to carry out the will of God. If we fail to fulfill that will then God might look for another. We have no option to feel sorry for ourselves or to neglect the duty given. God will find a way. We cannot assume we are safe from death or replacement...

“So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As someowho has struggled to hear, I know full well what hinders my hearing. The greatest impediment is background noise. What noise is present in your world? Does it take away from you or give to you. Worship music adds to my world and removes all darkness. Social media can drain and depress. A large amount of people talking hinders my hearing precious souls in front of me. Therefore, I must choose my environment. Listening to God through His word needs no background noise. A quiet time with the Lord needs to be as quiet as possible. His voice needs to be heard. Are you listening?

“So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Faith came to me through a process. The Lord caused two women to be planted in my nurse’s training group who were born again. There were a few of us who were Catholics and we would debate and argue with these women, but I could not deny the fact that they shone. They invited me to a nurse’s Christian fellowship and I encountered the word for the first time for myself. All the while God was making me discontent and hungry. Finally, He came to me and convicted me of my sin and led me to one of the women who opened her bible and shared the John 3:16 scripture and my eyes were opened. I remember saying, “I can see, I can see!” I prayed and asked for forgiveness and that Jesus would come into my heart. The joy I experienced was inexpressible. I was floating on air. All will have a different experience. However, an encounter with Jesus and His word is inevitable. The word of God is made alive...

“Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.” 1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ What came before instead? “But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats.” 1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Peter is talking about suffering. If we suffer when doing right God will reward us. We do not need to feel sorry for ourselves. His compassion is greater than we can imagine. In India and Nepal there is a push for national Hinduism. India is persecuting Muslims and Christians. In Nepal if foreigners are caught proselytising they are expelled from the country. If Nepali are caught they go to jail. I believe this is because many are coming to Christ and Satan wants to stop it. Therefore, wisdom is required when sharing.  Nonetheless, we must worship Jesus as Lord of our lives. He is God, He must be given full charge. Amen!

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” 1 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬ In Nepal people are being arrested for having tracts and sharing the gospel. Some fellow Australians were arrested also. Foreigners are deported for proselytising. Therefore, it is prudent to wait for a request as to what is in our hearts. My flatmates and I are preparing to make chocolates to give away for Easter. I wanted to create a small note to go with them, however, the girls tell me to wait to be asked. We are praying to be asked. We are also praying over the chocolates that they convey the Holy Spirit’s presence. Peter tells us to share our faith with gentleness and respect. We must respect others and their space. However, knowing that eternal life is in our hearts causes us to reach out. Eternity is at stake. There is a delicate balance here. Be prepared! Amen!

“For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me.” Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭49‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Being a Christian is being made into the image of the Son. We are not our own. Reacting to life is not our call, responding to Him and His ways is. This life is about seeking Him and following His lead. We find how we are mastering this when our life is tipped over. Do we react or respond? The choice is ours. Today is our opportunity to respond to Him!

“For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me.” Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭49‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This verse is taken from what we commonly call the Magnificat. This name is derived from the first line of the song that Mary the to be mother of Jesus sang when she became pregnant with Jesus. Magnificat was coined from the first line: ‘My soul magnifies the Lord for He has done great things for me!’ I sang this recently when God gave me a vision for a role He wants me to play in Nepal. It was so outside the box that I knew it would take God to accomplish it. Mary also had this experience. A divine act of God caused His word to her to become a reality. Our God wants to impart vision for great things. By pressing in to Him and seeking His face we receive. Rather than sitting with hands folded and complaining, ‘we’ll all be doomed, the end is coming!’ We could be seeking God for a glorious end. God is not finished with us until we see Him face to face in glory. God’s word to Mary came by the angel G...

“O Lord, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them.” Isaiah‬ ‭25‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ How many of us talk about things we planned long again that came to pass just as we had planned them? How many of our plans have changed? Yet, our God perfectly planned how we would come to know Him and walk with Him. He saw us before He ever knew us. I am told that the Chinese, as a culture, make long term plans. I cannot boast such endeavours. Many of my plans have not come to pass, fortunately, the Lord’s for me have. I know the only plan I have that I am sure that will come to pass is my loving the Lord and serving Him. I am blessed with seven grandchildren. Last night I wrote to my granddaughter Ellie. She promptly wrote back with a girly, newsy email. I delight in her. I am reminded in how my God delights in my news and my prayers. I pray for my granddaughter’s future and know that my God has plans fo...

“He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name.” Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭10‬:‭43‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The verse begs the question: who is Peter referring to when he states ‘all the prophets’?  “On that day a fountain will be opened for the dynasty of David and for the people of Jerusalem, a fountain to cleanse them from all their sins and impurity.” Zechariah‬ ‭13‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins.” Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “And they will not need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives, saying, ‘You should know the Lord.’ For everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already,” says the Lord. “And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.”...

“He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name.” Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭10‬:‭43‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Peter here is preaching to Cornelius and his household after being instructed by the Lord that the Good News was for the Gentiles also. He did this by giving Peter a vision of all manner of animals both what the Jews considered clean and unclean. The Lord then told Peter to rise up, kill and eat. Three times he had the order and finally the Lord said, “do not consider unclean what I have made clean!” Then he told him to go with men who had come to find him and share the good news with the one who sent them. Although Jesus went to the Decapolis and to the Samaratins, the disciples still believed that the gospel and the Good News was for their own people. They had to learn that this message was for all mankind. Imagine if it only stayed within the confines of Israel where we would be today? Praise God He consider...

“While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This scripture tells us God heard Jesus’ prayers, and yet, obedience was required over love and compassion. We could not say God abandoned Jesus in Gethsemane, however, He did when Jesus became sin for us. We know He did because Jesus cried out, “My God My God why have You forsaken me?”(Matt 27:46) we all know what rejection feels like, especially from a loved one. It hurts deeply. Jesus was rejected for us, He bore our pain and suffering. Today in worship I imagined myself with Jesus in Gethsemane. I am here my Lord, My prayers are for You, You must go forward, I will go with you. May I carry Your cloak, May I soothe your brow. My prayers lift you, I remind you of your prize. All souls will worship, With songs of honour Grateful heart will bow, All heaven will...

“While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The above verse refers to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed before He was arrested and taken away to suffer and die for us. This experience was written in the synoptic gospels: Matthew, Mark and Luke. The fact that it was recorded reveals the humanity of Jesus. More important was His prayer which ended: “not my will but Yours be done oh Lord!” As we are in the lead up to Easter it is good to forget about ourselves and consider what Jesus experienced. Many who have been martyred for their faith knew and know what it is to suffer and die for daring to believe in Jesus and the truth of the gospel. We in the West can only speculate what this suffering entails. It is good for us to consider and respect this suffering. Because of the Cross we have freedom f...

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew‬ ‭20‬:‭28‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The Nepali girls I flat with are servants by heart and deed. They love to cook, clean and wash. I also love to do this, however, often I am outdone by them. This is new to me as I have been in the lead for many years. While I am grateful I must find a way to serve. I do this by noticing what they need and blessing them with it. I wonder how the Lord sees us? He loved us enough to give His life for us so that we now can live guilt free and be able to worship Him and serve Him and others He brings us. Today I attended a Nepali service. It wa a very small group of people who the pastor served. My flatmates attend to be supportive when in reality their church is Koinonia, as is mine. They are supportive out of gratitude for assistance given in a medical crisis. There was one man in the service who entered in in worship. He really loves the Lord. It was so...

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew‬ ‭20‬:‭28‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Nothing in Jesus’ life shouted: ‘it’s all about me’ and yet it was. He was the great I Am, He was the gate, the door, the way, the truth and the life. Yet, He spent His time teaching, releasing, healing, delivering and confronting.  Jesus is my example. Does my life shout ‘servant of the most high’ or ‘servant of self’? If I serve myself then ease and comfort come first. I am surrounded with many hands wanting me to finance them. I have to be careful as I must serve the Lord’s vision and the people He has given me to serve. Jesus only did what He saw His Father do, nothing more, nothing less. Jesus financed no one, yet He had access to abundance. He was provided for by the women who kept His team company. I presume they cooked and cleaned for the team. Nonetheless, He did have Judas caring for the treasury. So, inadvertently He was the source. The...

“Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.” Psalms‬ ‭143‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Many will fail us, but God never fails us. We may think He has, especially if we expect Him to fall in line with our wishes and plans. God is not a genie in a bottle and we are not His master. He is GOD, we learn to follow His way as His way is best. If we cultivate a heart that seeks Him we will hear His unfailing love and sense His presence. His presence is all we need. All questions cease when He is near. All concerns, all fears, all pride falls. He is more than enough! If our heart is His He will lead us and guide us. David, in the verse above says: ‘I give myself to You!’ We could join him in this. The benefit is His presence. Amen!

“Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.” Psalms‬ ‭143‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This psalm is a psalm for the depressed. In it David is wrung out and exhausted with fear by being oppressed by Saul and seeing no way out. He confesses his depression but then he says:  “I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain.”  Psalms‬ ‭143‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Worship and praise are the way out. God hears and comes to comfort those who worship even in the face of overpowering odds. Not only does He comfort He guides through His Holy Spirit. He is good and a sure help in times of trouble.  Lay down self-pity and worship today! He is near and will come. His help is better than any mankind can provide. Job found this. His friends turned out to be no friends at all, but when God showed up he was ...

“But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This scripture speaks to me of giving influenced by compassion, rather than reason. I am thinking of giving my microwave away next week. I will be buying a convection oven and the microwave is new. I live in a street where there are poor. My flatmates would have people they know who would welcome it. However, we have a street to reach. I cannot explain my motivation, but I know God’s heart for the lost. Yesterday I little Hindu man wanted to sell me a carnation as he wanted the money for food. I refused the carnation and gave him money for food. My flatmates would object because this man was involved in the Hindu religion. I do not care for reasoning I care for the gospel. I want to give and will give trusting the Lord for the outcome. I pray the Lord will guide me. Amen!

“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” ‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ There is only one road north, south there are many roads but they all end in one place, hell. Satan tries to have people believe that there are many roads to heaven and that there is no hell. He denies the veracity of the scriptures. He is wrong, he is a liar, and has been from the beginning. He is keen to furnish hell with as many of mankind as he can.  I remember the chorus from many years ago: One way Jesus Christ, one way through Calvary, One way Jesus Christ, one way through all eternity. The truth remains the truth and never will it change. Jesus is that truth. Life is found in Him. Amen!

“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” ‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Jesus had just told the disciples He was going to the Father but they would know the way to Him and Thomas had said, “but we don’t know where you are going so how can we know the way there!” Jesus replied that not only was He the Way, He was also the truth and the life. In other words He was God. Some still did not understand. Phillip said, “Lord show us the Father and we will be satisfied.” Jesus then said,  “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do....

“I refuse to be ashamed of the wonderful message of God’s liberating power unleashed in us through Christ! For I am thrilled to preach that everyone who believes is saved—the Jew first, and then people everywhere!” Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Paul never backed down from sharing the gospel, even though it bought him stoning, beatings, and ultimately death, he was on fire with the gospel. Paul was sold out to the gospel, he was not compromised with wanting to be popular, rich or comfortable. Comfort and safety compromise us if we allow them to take hold. My Nepali friends have taught me to sing thanksgiving for food in Nepali. Today, in a Tuk tuk full of Nepali I began to sing it. A woman opposite me was caught by the words. I pray I takes hold! Jesus is the best answer for any problem we have. Amen!

“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.” Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬ One that went before Paul was also not ashamed: “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬ For a Jew to accept Jesus as saviour and turn his back on the fulfilment of the law through works was shameful. Yet, Paul was not ashamed. Many would find themselves in this position. I turned my back on the belief that a Catholic deserves eternal life just by being a Catholic, and chose to believe that I am right with God because of Jesus. In Nepal there are many Gods and they are tied to the culture in Nepal. To become a Christian is to disengage from culture and potentially family. For Jesus the shame of the...

“And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As Christians we have good news. We are not compelled to crawl on our knees to show humility, we do not need to beat ourselves, starve ourselves, or sleep on a bed of nails. All we are asked to do is believe that Jesus is the Christ and tell others about Him. Share the good news! When we buy a house or a car we want to show others our new purchase. When we become engaged we want to introduce our intended to others. As born again believers we have very good news. We have been set free from our sin and brought into a loving relationship with our Father God. This news is worth sharing. Our message, when annointed by the Holy Spirit, impacts lives, sets captives free. Behave free and tell others the good news. Amen!

“And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ How do you preach the good news without a language? It is harder but possible, by the way we treat others. In Nepal courtesy is not common. By courtesy ai mean not pushing in, but respecting a person’s space while they deal with another customer. Here, no such courtesy exists. A service person is bombarded from many angles and expected to compute finances as well as answer questions. The west does not tolerate such behaviour. We expect people to take turns. Here, when driving, drivers push in from wherever they are and do not give way. In such a world giving courtesy is unusual and hopefully appreciated. Yesterday at church there were several new visitors. Those here on mission were learning the language. One young man I know learned the language at a language school for three years. I am learning the language. I am pushing to read, write and speak. I want to communicate. Meanti...

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I have done a few art works and some received attention and were purchased, others I gave away. Some I over-painted again. Yet, the scriptures says we are God’s masterpiece, each one of us are unique and cherished by our Heavenly Father. None of my canvasses were worthless to me, even if the painting that did not please me, I started again with a new one. Much like being born again. When we are born again we are given a brand new nature within. We are filled with the Holy Spirit. Then we shine. Trust Him for a new beginning! You’ll be glad you did! Amen!

“We have become his poetry, a re-created people that will fulfill the destiny he has given each of us, for we are joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny and the good works we would do to fulfill it!” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭TPT‬‬ When I sit at a beautiful piano I love to play it, when I have an inspiration to paint I enjoy picking up my brushes and painting. I write poetry when moved deeply. This verse tells us we are God’s poetry, for me this means He is moved deeply by us. How can we inspire Him so much? God is love, and loving is what He does best, and when He sees us in His Son He is filled with love.  We need to hold a baby, especially one that is ours to understand. Love wells up and overflows. Delight in small fingers and toes, two little eyes that peer back, the soft skin, the small mouth. These are beautiful to us. To be loved so much as to inspire poetry is amazing, but we are. To have a song written about us is more...

“You draw near to those who call out to you, listening closely, especially when their hearts are true.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭145‬:‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today I had a day where my God invaded with more vision. I love it when He doe that! He is still close! I had a visit from an Nepali friend who is unchurched and God was there also. When he left and went away I could sense he was talking about his visit favourably. This afternoon the Lord has been present with further vision and presence. He is good!

“The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth.” Psalms‬ ‭145‬:‭18‬ ‭NLT‬‬ When my flesh craves attention; When my emotions are for me, When my mind is lazy; I will choose to praise; I will choose to worship! I will worship You;  I will worship you; You lay down Your life for me; You gave up Your way for me; You saved me from my sins, You are worthy of praise! Amen! Being in a funk does not mean we do not worship, it means we give a sacrifice of praise. It means we out on worship music and we sing, we meditate on God’s goodness. “Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power. I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles. Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim your greatness. Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness; they will sing with joy about your righteousness.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭145‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Make the effort! Amen!

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This morning I had a dream before waking. In the dream I was walking towards dusk under a cloudy sky. I looked up and thought I saw an eclipse, however, as I watched the sky parted and an angel appeared with a trumpet. When he blew the trumpet furled up angels rolled out and unfurled and flew out to the four corners of the earth to gather souls. I knew the Lord was about to appear and I ran to an auditorium when there were many groups of people, some busy with conferences, selling merchandise and some sitting and chatting. I ran around to the various groups and they looked at me dreamily and did not comprehend what I was saying or the urgency I was attempting to convey. I went out looking for my youngest brother and found him working under a bus. I told him he needed to repent and give his life to Jesus and after a brief thought said ...

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This is God’s word to Joshua. He had just been given the role that Moses had carried for the past 40 years. He had been given roles under Moses: he led the men to battle against their enemies; he had been on the team that explored the promised land; he had been close to Moses and sought the Lord when others were uninterested, but now he was in charge. Joshua knew the limits and failures of the people, but importantly he knew His God. He was blessed with another strong man, Caleb. Both Caleb and Joshua were the only ones who brought a good report from the promised land. Caleb was a fighting man even in his 80s. When it came time to have his allotted portion of land, he took it with gusto and cleared the land of his enemies. However, Joshua knew he needed God. He had seen Noses’ reliance and communion with God and knew he was not able w...

“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory, honor, and power, for you created all things, and for your pleasure they were created and exist.” ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬ ‭TPT‬‬ We do many things and create many things to enjoy and to share with others for their enjoyment. The Lord created all things for His pleasure. When I look at the tiny birds, the amazing flowers and the sea creatures, I imagine the joy they must bring Him because of the joy I experience. We were a part of His creation. We are the only ones who were given free choice, the rest do not know such freedom. We were made in His image, we reflect His glory. This brings Him joy. All creation waits in longing for the revealing of the sons of God. Imagine that! Creation awaits the uncovering of the glory placed within those who believe. I wonder if the revealing causes creation to sing, play musical sounds? I like to think it does. Today I visited the uni here in Kathmandu to ask about doing a research project. I met the...

“Every gift God freely gives us is good and perfect, streaming down from the Father of lights, who shines from the heavens with no hidden shadow or darkness and is never subject to change.” James ‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ We are drawn to free gifts, however, the natural man finds forgiveness of sin a gift that must, somehow be paid for by the recipient. We are harsh on others who we need to forgive, usually more lenient on ourselves unless we carry a religious bias. For two weeks now I have been in Nepal and struggled to break through into sensing the presence of God. However, whilst listening to a message on the grace of God I saw it and reached out to the Lord and asked Him to bless me. His presence fell and along with it the awareness of what God wants me to do here in Nepal. I had visions down one path myself but the Lord touched me in a most unexpected way. He wants me to start a business. He gave me the blueprint and all. This afternoon I met with a man from Iris Global (Heidi Bakers gro...

“Every gift God freely gives us is good and perfect, streaming down from the Father of lights, who shines from the heavens with no hidden shadow or darkness and is never subject to change.”( James ‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬) When we are ill it can be tempting to assume God has afflicted us, however, He is the One who heals us, our enemy Satan is the afflicter of disease. Not only does Satan afflict us, he works hard to convince us we are alone and God has forsaken us. He is a liar! Since being in Nepal I had battled stomach problems, until yesterday. My Nepali friends were constantly trying to feed me Nepali remedies, and yesterday were talking of me needing to go to the hospital. This is their mindset. I said, “No! I do not need a hospital I will tell you if I am that sick! God will heal me!” I was also determined to care for my own health. The Nepali world seems to revolve around food and the kitchen. This morning I am well. Another thing Satan has worked to convince me of is that I am wastin...

“We look away from the natural realm and we focus our attention and expectation onto Jesus who birthed faith within us and who leads us forward into faith’s perfection. His example is this: Because his heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be his, he endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!” Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Guarding our eye gate is an important task we have. We cannot afford to dwell on things that would corrupt our desire for the Lord. Lusts of the flesh are big ones. Temptations flood into the eye gate. We must have a foundation of truth that guides us or we are prey to all manner of ‘needs’ we do not have. We find ourselves thinking, ‘I deserve that’, I need to look good, feel good, have companionship etc. before long we have a house full of stuff we cannot possible use but feel good about having it. In other words our comfort comes from things. Our God has a better way. What ...

“fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ There was great shame attached to crucifixion, the worst of worst criminals suffered this fate. Yet, the righteous Son of God was crucified as a criminal. His only crime: He made the religious leaders jealous, they hated Him for His freedom and the truth He spoke. Whilst we have done many shameful things, in Christ we are forgiven, and made right through faith in Him and His sacrifice. He rose from the dead because the Father was pleased with His perfect sacrifice. By rising from the dead He brought us who believe into a place of freedom and honour. Shame is no longer our badge.  We are invited to sit with Him in His finished work and place of highest honour. Freedom is ours! Amen!

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” 1 Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Today my eldest grandson became a member of the Australian Armed Forces. By wearing the uniform he is declaring his allegiance to the nation of Australia and will devout his life to the protection of her interest. As a Christian how do I declare my allegiance to Jesus? I do it by my words and deeds and the way I treat others. I also do this by sharing my faith to others. This afternoon my housemate and I went to order cushions for our dining chairs as they are wooden. The Nepali man in the shop endeavoured to steer us towards a particular fabric, he told us other fabrics I looked at were more expensive. I disagreed because I am a sower. However, when I calculated what the man wanted for six cushions I could see they were a bargain. We would pay the same price for one in Australia. By treating shopkeepers fairly I trust I am declaring my godly position. I trust! What are you decl...

“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his dwelling place. Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!” Let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them! Let the trees of the forest sing, let them sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.” ‭‭1 Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭8...

“Our faith in Jesus transfers God’s righteousness to us and he now declares us flawless in his eyes. This means we can now enjoy true and lasting peace with God, all because of what our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, has done for us.” Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ In myself I am flawed, but in Jesus I am flawless because of what He has done for me. He gives us new life, a right standing with God the Father. Because I am His I am loved and enjoyed. Today I call my eldest grandson as he is 18 today. I am proud of my grandson and he brings me pleasure just knowing him. How much more pleasure does our Heavenly Father have from having us as His child? We fail to understand it or appreciate it fully. I cannot do more to please Him than place my faith in His Son Jesus. Today is a cold wet day in Kathmandu Nepal. We still do not have a heater, perhaps this week. The girls showed me food they like to cook on cold rainy days. I cooked them a veg stir fry. Tonight, perhaps they will cook their food. Prai...

“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Being ‘Made right’ is being justified. It is a legal term. Jesus bought us freedom. We receive this freedom by faith. When a judge declares my action justified, I am free of all charges brought against me. Satan, the accuser, is the one who instigated the charges, but Jesus stands against him and says, ‘price paid’. The acrion that justifies me is faith in the blood of Jesus. He sets me free.  We cannot work for the accuser. He will attempt to use us to speak against others. We are fools when we fall prey to his wiles. We may feel important but we are fools.  Paul goes on to say: Therefore, there is no condemnation for us who belong to Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set me free from the law of sin and death’( Romans 8:1,2) life is more powerful than death. Amen!

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭32‬ ‭NLT‬‬ A tender hearted child feels deeply and cries easily, and is a loyal and faithful friend. I remember when I first came to know Jesus, I was soft towards the Lord’s hand and loving towards others. I was a great witness as a nurse. I remember seeing one particular lady several years later on the maternity ward. She greeted me as a grateful woman, as I had been a blessing to her. Unfortunately I had hardened in the interveening time, and she saw the difference. This memory is a sad one for me. Why had I hardened? I had married and was experiencing difficulty. Difficulties can harden us. Remaining soft is the constant challenge. Remaining tender whilst facing difficulties is the biggest challenge. I have had many times of tenderness, when in ministry I became very soft to the Lord, and later through times of great difficulty I became tender again t...

“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭32‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I seem to keep tripping over this verse, regularly. It usually occurs when I am frustrated with another Christian and want to distance myself or even not bother at all. Last night I listened to a message by Bill Johnson, he was talking about how God uses the difficult people in our lives to reveal a part of us that refuses to yoke with them. The difficulty we experience in trying to remove ourselfves and go our own way, is us trying to carry the yoke by ourselves. Rather we should get back into harness. I think we all have such people. Bill spends time praying for the person and thanking God for them. I can do this also. Gratitude changes things. Concentrating on the good suddenly covers the multitude of sin.  “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Lov...

“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”  1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Confession is good for the soul! Confession of matters that are true, reliable and powerful releases the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Confession of sin cleanses our hearts, provided a true change of heart is intended. Here the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, but willingly forgives us and empowers us to change and move away from our sin. A step of faith is necessary. Empowerment comes as we trust in the promised power to overcome the sin. For example in sexual sin, desiring to change is not enough we must step away and claim the promised power to resist the sin, saying we cannot help ourselves is a lie, we can step into the grace God provides. Resistance to sin is also important. Scripture tells us, ‘resist the devil and he will flee!’ Jesus resisted temptation with scripture, Satan cannot stand the truth of the word of God. Amen!

“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” 1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Last night I went to a worship night at the Nepal Iris Global centre. I met a man named Bruce who had the very presence of the Holy Spirit that I seek. Whilst he was not involved in leading the night I recognised what I wanted. I am grateful that Iris Global is in Nepal, I am looking forward to a closer encounter with them. In the encounter I also recognised in myself what needed to change. Repentance followed and will continue to follow as the Holy Spirit shows me the way. The beautiful side of God is when we truely repent of our sins we are instantly forgiven. In the past I had a relationship with a person who would not forgive under these conditions, it was when he decided to forgive was I forgiven, I was made to pay for my transgressions. Praise God He is not unjust. Praise Him that He is God, and we are not. Praise Him that love is His m...