Wed - Last day in Redding

So this is the day... the last day.

My journey to Bethel has been an extraordinarily one, full of surprises and personal change. Many of my perspectives have been challenged and changed, and is still in the process of being changed.

I have learned more about the person of God, and how I relate to Him. I have discovered how to connect with Him every morning, and how He moves on me. I have seen Him work miracles through my life, and I have seen many people's lives change because of His working in their lives.

I have experienced a culture of honor - one that is unique and almost impossible to imagine. I have seen leaders that live in a team, and are committed to family for life. I have seen leaders being vulnerable before masses of people, countless times. I have heard wisdom above my comprehension. I have seen gifts operate, that can only be directly from Heaven.

I have heard countless testimonies and accounts of miracles and things God has done in our present age. Things that even I have had trouble to believe :)

I have learnt ways to handle things. Ways to think about things. Ways to approach things. Ways to do life.

I have learned so much about people, friendships, and relationships. I have learned about humanity, about the basic needs of every human being, and the basic life of every human being. From the homeless to those living in mansions. From the obscure and unknown, to those walking in fame. They have all become my friends, they have all become my family. They have all shared in my journey with God. And so have you :)

So, this is the end of the blog 

"Light in Bethel" - Aug 2010 - May 2011: BSSM (Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry)

I am still want to blog about my journey onwards... back to South Africa, so I created a new blog that you can follow my journey on:

"Light in South Africa" - http://lightinsouthafrica.blogspot.com/

Thanks you again for sharing this journey with me. 

I pray that God will walk more closely with you also on your journey :)

God is truly good :)

Tue

Said goodbye to my room mate that was with me in the room the whole year. It is kinda weird not having him around.

I met with Todd early in the morning. Cycled in the rain one last time. Embrace the wetness. We talked about the future and good things :)

Went to Thom Whiffen's party. I felt loved, and sad to leave the people. These people have become my family :'(

Got to hang with Zeb again for one last time :) Went and got Pizza, ate it in Starbucks, met some new people, and gave away a few slices :) I love being around Zeb, because people just love him, and he makes people come alive... I can't explain it... he just does :) So it is cool to sit under his umbrella, and watch people come alive around him. I like it :)

Then we went to watch a movie, met some 'local' Bethelites :)

Social is happening now that there is no school. Tomorrow I leave Bethel & Redding & California.

My time has come.

God is good.

Mon - Grad

Today was graduation. It was raining softly. My room-mate (Brandon) gave me and Sean (house-mate) a ride to grad. We first drove to the City hall, looking for the 'civic center'. We got informed that the Convention center is mistakenly called the civic center... so off we went :)

Everyone was nicely dressed for grad. It was weird hugging people, and saying goodbyes. We had 30 min of worship, from the BSSM band... for the last time... it was good. After some words, Kathy started to read all the names. You can watch it at http://www.ibethel.tv/watch/1062/1st-yr-bssm-graduation/2011/05/16 after you created a free account. I walk across the stage at 1:31:08 if you want to see me :)

Afterwards they announced the Emerald Johnson award, and then Bill gave us a parting commission. Watch at 2:24:00. Epic stuff.

Then I stood at the bottom of the stairs, and hugged everyone goodbye that I knew. It was good.

Afterwards, went to Giant burger with Zeb, and hanged with him, going to U-topit, and then a house party.

So many goodbyes... good-byes - it has been good, and will be good.

God is good. (And I never have to say goodbye to Him)

Fri - Sun

Fri
Day of knighting. Got donuts at set-up today :) it was weird to set-up for the last time... and not saving a seat for myself... 2nd years were coming before us... 1:30pm 1st years came in,  and we got knighted by Bill & Kris. 800 student take a while to knight... it was arb waiting to be knighted... forever... but meeting people afterward was cool, and everyone saying their kinda goodbyes.

Then we had evening service at twinview, that was a change, and weird with all the parents around... and a new speaker... that talked a long time :) ha ha :) Ministry time afterwards was fun... God changed lives :)

Sat
Sluggish day, not sure what to do... stated to plan what to do with all my stuff... In the evening went to a grill (BBQ/braai) at Whiskey-town lake. A cold front started to come in, and it was cool. Ate massive burger patties, and sat around a table - much fun, felt like family. Said goodbye to people that I may never see again this side of Heaven :'( So, saying goodbye became a reality.

Came home and helped Jonny with his Pokemon card set. When to bed late.

Sun
Woke up without an alarm, and semi-rushed to get ready for church. All was good. We got a shuttle to church, because of parking restrictions, and got some eats for waiting :) Score on having a breakfast. Bill spoke on the community at Bethel, and Eric & Candice taking responsibility for the community. cool stuff.

Got home, Reuben's parents came over, and brought homebaked bread & real honey. Lunch was sorted. Read more of Loving your kids on purpose - And yes, this book is good. It is more than just about raising kids - but also how you treat all people. Really challenging, and mind shifting. Danny takes the principles from Love & Logic and adds honor & kingdom to it.. If you have kids, check http://www.loveandlogic.com/articles.html for free resources.

Today was my last day at the sanctuary... Tomorrow is the last BSSM day... then people disperse all over... and then life goes on... and the kingdom comes more and more :)

God is good :)

Tue - Thu

... weird ... I thought I blogged about this already... but I see no post... maybe there was a glitch... so... here we go again :)

Tue
Worship, Bill - short message & reverse fire tunnel (he & leaders lay hands on us), revival group - last one & group photo. After school had a get-together with people from our small group of single life workshop - last time i will see some of them.

Wed
Dann summarized the hermeneutics that we have learned. Short worship. Mark encouraged us. Then I had an epiphany that this is the last day of 'normal' school... I will never have that environment again... maybe when I am 60 years old, and return to do 1st year again :)

Then had Kris, read Romans 8, and talked of God making all things working together for good. Then he gave some prophetic words to a few people. He can prophecy (to say the least) - held the best or last.

Then hanged with Zeb & watched a movie at Simpson.

Thu
Day of games at a game park. Played ultimate Frisbee, and then some mass scale dodge ball, quenched my thirst with some mountain dew, then watched people play baseball, and then hit some balls at the batting cages. Nice to be outside in the sun and play sports with friends... one last time...

Oooooo! and I bought a little USB piano keyboard... I have been experimenting with some synthesizers, and now i can start making some tunes :) Electronica, here I come :)

God is good :)

Tue - Wed

Tue
Had worship, then Bill shared on preaching Jesus & Kingdom and not "Bethel"... at Bethel the leaders look at what is happening all over the world, and talking about it... so it is not in the place... but what the place is about.

We the had a reverse fire tunnel, with all the leaders and interns laying hands on all of us. Afterwards, we had revival group, our last one, and we said hi to visitors, and thanked our pastors, and our interns gave some last words. Then we took a group photo. Nick's idea... to remember our class, and later hear where people have gone to across the world, and what they accomplished. yeah :)

Wed
Last day of formal school. We had Dann give a summary on what we have learned. Then worship. Then Mark. Then the moment hit me that I will not be sitting in the class again, and these people will never be here again.It was nostalgic, but funnily there was no sadness. Then we had Kris speak. He read Romans 8, and talked about God working everything together for good for us. Good word.

Then Kris prophesied over a few people. Well, he actually has an amazing prophetic gift... I could really feel Heaven on his words. He did not prophecy over anyone the whole year, else people would want words from him... now I see why :)

So many people, so many friends, so many I have learned to love beyond differences. Mark told us that this is family for us, and that we could come here anytime, and that they are there for us if we need any help in the future. The invitation felt like a family telling you that their house is open to you, after you have come to know them. This has become family. I have more than one family now :)

After school I hanged with Zeb, and then went to Simpson and watched Knight & Day with Simpson people. It was fun.

How things will pan out for everyone - only God knows... but I have a hopeful expectancy that it will be good.

God has always loved you. God is good :)

Sat - Mon

Sat
Slept in again... tried to get the cold out of me... felt better.

Sun
Fixed up my CV, heard Mario preach - love his messages. Went to a friend's place in the afternoon that is getting married soon - enjoyed hanging out as single guys :)

Mon
Went on a prayer walk to the Ranch. I observed that geese have a high level of social intelligence. I also started to read a book called "Loving your kids on Purpose" - Dany Silk. It may be one of the most life transforming books I have read... it is close to Experiencing the Father's embrace... but it is good... it has a lot of kingdom psychology in - and a lot of stuff that I have believed, but never heard anyone say... so i am enjoying it :) First book that I do not have to read after BSSM :)

So, it seems like my flu is lingering the whole time... but it more like a runny nose now... and today was the first time in a week that I feel healthy again. I love being healthy :) Thank Jesus :)

Cool... God is good :)

Thu - Fri

Thu
Went to meet leaders that came for leadership advance, made some new connections, went to prayer house and sat there for a long time. Then school started with worship, then Bill spoke on general Christian opinion on certain cities & how it may effect the cities - and how we should show mercy as we have been show mercy & not judgement. Then he had Q&A and answered difficult questions - and did very well in the answers. I don't want to be Bill :) But he does well at what he does.

Then we went to revival group party - barbecue at the place we had our first get together - nostalgic. Then spend the evening with guys as Zeb's... hanging out while there is time.

Fri
My flu is fading, and I feel better. Just got a little bit of it left in my system. Burney spoke at school on the Spirit of wisdom. Dann spoke on interpreting the Bible. And then we had Mario Murillo - old school powerful preacher. So good... want to get the recordings...

Then we had our last small group. Had the most insane ice-cream at Coldstones - with a the bells and whistles. It was 88F, so it was perfect weather for ice-cream. We chatted, and Toby's parents joined us, & we prophecied over each other - everyone's prophecies were spot on.

In the evening we had Mario speak again. It was awesome. Then, came home to some home made cheese cake Reuben made :) It was good :)

God is good :)

Tue - Wed

Tuesday I became a bit sick... flu symptoms, only in my body - not in my head or through :) So I took Corenza-C (from SA), and went to bed earlier. Wednesday I took it slow, and recovered... still not 100%, but far better than Tuesday night. The worst is over.

Funny that I have not been sick all my time here... believing in divine health... but I think it's because of me worrying about the future - when I get back to SA... I can only do so much from this side... the rest is up to God - not me :)

Well... all is looking better, and tomorrow is school again :)

God is good :)

Fri - Mon

Fri
Went to John Crowder's Mystic's school. He spoke more about the mystics, and all the stuff they experience. He also told of current mystics. cool stuff. Crowder talked on being drunk in the spirit, and enjoying His presence... as an end in itself... good point.

Sat

Mystic school was on New Creation theology, the happy gospel, and such like... mostly in his book Mystical Union. One thing that is cool about Crowder is that he hammers the point that it is about faith in God... and that faith is simply trusting & relaxing & stepping out (not in so many words).

Sun
Slept util I was woken - by my ride that was waiting for me :/ so grabbed everything and went... went to worship, and then walked out - because we were driving to Chico... well, I went out an hour to early... and only realized it later... then went back in for some of the sermon them went out again... quite weird... but it was good, because I helped a friend get directions to the school, and organize some lunch for myself... so it worked out well :)

The school was about de-mystifying the supernatural - as in 'visions' and 'inspired writing'... quite good. He also spoke on his own revelation of Songs of Solomon. We had a soak in the end, and it was good. I felt like I returned to loving God with my heart, and not only with my head... I think there is a balance between thinking about God, and experiencing God. You need to have both, in good measure to grow.

Mon

Prayer house. Then tried to figure out how to run a protected cd on my notebook that has no cd-rom... still working on it... one day later I know what the problem is though :) I still got computer skills.

I also did a pre-clean of my junk drawer... sad feeling of gathering your possessions, so that you can remove them... just a few weeks now...

God is GOOD :)

Thu

This morning, I was thinking so much, that I woke myself up. I am subconsciously thinking about my future on so many levels. Anyways.

Spent the morning doing more travel admin. Glad to tick two things of my 2do list... took me the whole morning. Then did some homework reading in the afternoon, took a walk. it was windy. made supper. went to the writer's conference, had worship, Beni Johnson spoke, then we made a fire tunnel that lasted forever. Then came home, made a snack, and then typed this until 11:24pm. Shower time.

God is good :)

Wed

Spent most of the day on my laptop... reading Bible on it in the morning, and doing admin in the afternoon... I think I should open a travel agency, with operators online 24/7 managing people's itineraries - a phone / skype / email operated thing... anyway... managing my itinerary is intense (for me anyways) keeping track of everything and updating my plans with flight schedule changes. (breathe out).

Afterward I went for a walk, and chilled the rest of the afternoon. O, I also made some bannana foster - with some modifications...

God is Good :)

Tue

Read some homework. Cleaned the yard a bit. went to the park with friends to throw a football (actually fun), and Frisbee. Felt like a total body workout. Also got some sun in my skin :)

Then went to single life workshop (last one), and then came home and ate some homemade rhubarb pie :) O, and I have been making my own yogurt :) fun and easy :)

Wed - Mon

...kinda lost track of time with the spring break... so here is my update :)

Wed
At breakfast at Marie Calendra's - $5 for any breakfast on the menu, with free coffee. Omelet was good, and the cinnamon bun in the end was sweet - drenched in sugar coating :) O, this was for our final revival leaders group meeting... sad :(

Kevin spoke at school about church, and then Kris spoke to us on , and then with Q&A answered a Q on women very well :) Then we had our last small group meeting. Sad. Then I hanged with Zeb :) Helped Merlin move, and watched Red (Romantic, action comedy - fun). Then went back home, no longer sad, but glad to have a friend like Zeb :)

Thu
Worship, then Jason told us 'you can do it, no matter what the circumstances' - by telling stories of people that did overcome all odds. Then Chis O spoke on Bethel neighborhoods, and how well we have been doing at activations :) Then we had our last message by Les :( and last fire tunnel at activation :( people were swaggering around... sad that we will not be having this again with these people :(

Then we went and prayed for a guy. He has been progressively been getting better - from a coma on life support to being able to walk around. Amazing story. Sometimes healing is slow and progressive.

Fri
No school. Easter break. Slept in, tried to read, but kinda gave up. Went to church at night, and met Gaby. She is from Germany, and I have not seen her for 6 years. It was good to see her again. She came and visited here for a few days with her pastor and his wife.

Sat
Slept in again. Tried to read again - only got a few pages done. Went to homegroup in the evening. Sat around a pit-fire outside. Then went inside and all gave Becky prophetic words. Then played Apples to Apples - Definitely a game I will buy / order in SA... it is the best group game ever... well.. one of them :)

Sun
Did not have to go to the first service, so slept a bit later, and went to 2nd service. Bill spoke. He did not really give a message, even though it was Easter Sunday... he honored people that have been in the church over 10 years, and spoke of other breakthroughs in the church :) He talked again about 'I want my knife back' - and shared on a guy who's laptop was stolen with his thesis on, and how he prayed to get his thesis back, and how it appearing on the new laptop he bought ! crazy :)

Tried to read some more... got a few more pages in. Also went for a walk.

Mon
Slept forever... from 11pm till 12:15pm ... over 13 hours... that is over half a day... It was rainy, and I was tired, and feeling a bit sick (must be my body rebooting - knowing that it can go into vac mode). So I rested well. I woke, feeling like I could sleep some more... but rather did not... I ate breakfast at lunchtime, and then read some more. I actually read a lot, and finished the book. Then I went for a walk.

I came back, and finished my book report. Now, I only have Bible reading left... then I have no more homework for BSSM... wow... then it is finished... kinda sad...

So, yes, it has been the end of many things this past week. And now it is vac... which makes it a bit easier, not to think about school ending. Next week we start of Thursday, and the week after is going to be hard - because that is our last week of school. I may cry... but I will see...

All this will soon end - for me anyways...

God is good - all the time :)

Sun - Tue

Sun
Church in the mornin. Danny spoke on following your favor, his second installment. I prayed for a guy that had stuff in his lungs, and after, it was all clear :) Jesus heals people :)

Mon
Pray in the mornin, then tried to read homework... watched Inception again, and actually followed everything that was going on. It was interesting to follow the crazyness, and know what was going on :)

Tue
Worship, then Danny spoke a super cool message on communication with people. Revival group. Then a meeting with Seth Dall - children's pastor. He told us all his life wisdom from coming to and working at Bethel... so... good...

Receiving never ends... Giving never ends... learning and growing never ends...

The goodness of God never ends :) God is Good :)

Thu - Sat

Thu
We did not have school in the morning, because of BCS (Bethel Christian School) practicing their play. We had activation in the afternoon and went to pray for a lady that is recovering for cemo therapy. Chilled the afternoon.

Fri
We watched the BCS play at school, some kids have great talent, and all the kids are confident in who they are... something that's rare to see... even at high school level... The school really has a kingdom culture.
Went to a small group meeting, then had Dann speak on the book of Revelation. Then we had small groups.

At the evening church service, Juaqine Evens spoke... and people got healed... and kids from BCS started a glory pile at the back of the church, and came in at the end of the service, and made a glory pile up front... which turned into a fire tunnel. I have not made my mind up about all this... some people encounter God... and most people have a good time... I guess it is one of those things that you can't understand with your natural mind... you can only be open to it, and believe in it's spiritual significance. anyway...

Came home and watched the movie A-Team :)

Sat
Slept in, watched inception again (I caught all the stuff I missed the first time). And then we went to a car show of pimped up cars and show cars. There were a lot of people, but we went late, so we got in for free, because cars were starting to leave...

There isn't any homegroup tonight, so I will see what happens....

God is in a good mood :)

Mon - Wed

Mon
Pray. Homework.

Tue
Long worship, including prophetic direction. so good. Mark spoke, then we had our Track presentations. People had great presentations resources that will shape nations... so great... Had single's workshop, spoke on relationships.

Wed
Had a leavers meeting with Paul, Dann, and Mark. They spoke about the Global legacy network, and connecting people that leave Bethel to it. Looking forward to networking :) Had small group training, then met john in our small group, then had Paul speak about finding what you love to do, what you are good at doing, making money, and combining the three... in the 7 mountains. Then revival group.

> Time is really running out... and my heart is backing it's bags... Today I felt that strange disconnect to the world that I am experiencing... nostalgic at times... as if I am a visitor... like it felt in the beginning... I have been running from it, but my calendar is filled... all the way to 'graduation'... and then there is no more school... no more Bethel... no more BSSM...

I'm trying to not drink this emotion all at once... but my heart tasted it... and knows it is true... I love these people...

God is good, always.

Fri - Sun

Fri
Worship was amazing. We sang one of United pursuit's songs... form the album 'life at the bank house'... The album has been rocking my life. We played it when we were driving to San Fran... and today at worship people spontaneously started to sing 'Set a fire down in y soul, that I can't contain, that I can't control'. Just love it.

We heard testimonies from missions trips. Many cancer's disappeared, many blind saw, many lame walked. Legs grew out, and an amputated arm grew about 2 inches. Most amazing: A lady that was blind form 2 years, got her sight back, and then was prayed for to be able to read (she could never see) - and she started to read everything she saw... amazing :)

Had small group. Talked about where people were, people looked down, and then we figured out that it was aftershock from the missions trips. Prayed, and it all got better :)

Sat
Slept in a little. Really need more sleep, from returning from San Fran. We also had 'single's retreat'. We did some group activities, and had messy Taco food, with some good discussion in between. The discussions really changed how I see relationships... in a good way :)

In the evening we went to the Christensen's for Harry and Josh's birthday. We played signs, and the people were amazingly sneaky. great fun.

Sun
Bill spoke on longevity. We have been reading God's generals, and now Daniel... it just all ties together... trying to learn what kind of heart attitude you have to foster and keep - until your last breath - in order to finish strong.

Did homework most of the day. Then went to Zeb's to see tangled (loved the flower song). Got a ride back with Cody... he's a really great guy... went with him to San Fran...

Seems like I am finding all these people that I love... when I am about to leave... Just when my heart was starting to take root in this place, I am leaving... But it is all good...

God is Good... always good.

Tue - Thu

Tue

Bill spoke on praising God at all times. For the first time my heart caught it. I will praise Him always... in the valley of the shadow of death, in the midst of my deepest pain, in the darkest hour - I will praise Him, for His name in itself is worthy to be praised, regardless of where I am. And when I do, He enters my world.

After school we had singles workshop. We talked about relationships, our history and where we are at. It was emotionally open, but good. It is great to have sisters in the faith who can give you wisdom.

Wed

Kris spoke on justice (black & white, by the book) people [Absolom] and people that do not like confronting [David]. The aim of confrontation is restoration. Also be aware of your own weaknesses before confronting people.

Thu

Krystal spoke on John 15 & 17 - abiding in the vine, and giving the responsibility of tending the garden to the Gardener. Also entering His rest in Heb 4. Being who God made you to be, and not comparing yourself to others. Drinking from His grace and affirmation and affection towards you.

After school I hung out with a bunch of strong godly men. We shared about God, and how we loving people with God's love changes people. It is simple, yet profound. Unconditional love. No strings attached. Just receive love. Love restores all things. Having brothers to look up to gives me freedom to be more of myself.

God is always good.
His name is always worthy of Praise :)

Tue - Mon (1 week) San Fransisco Mission

The San Fran mission was amazing. Learned a lot about religion being practical, and that there are no formulas... I met great people, that I may never see again... I have given to a city that I will always love...

22 people went to San Fran... we spent a week together, serving together... and now we are all back to our 'normal' lives... 1 week felt more like a month... it is taking me time to return to 'normal'... I will never be the same again :)

Day 1 (Tuesday - 29 March 2011)

We left at 7am, got to Kim's house, ate flapjacks, packed, drove to San Fran, walked around the pier, ate a $10 lunch, climbed on the trolly's, walked around China town, drove to the house (church) were we were to stay, had Mark speak to us on serving, ate supper, went out on the streets with some of Mark's team, handed out sandwiches, chips & cool drinks to the homeless, drove back, showered, slept... some people snored :)

Day 2

Attended the homeless church's cellgroup, led by Ps. Evans. He is staying in a house with his wife, and they have homeless people staying with them, and helping them in their ministry to the homeless. Amazing. We then went to Gateway church's youth center, hanged out, went to the youth service, worshiped, 4 of us preached, made a prophecy tunnel. Fun :)

Day 3

Cleaned Ps Evans's house the whole day. Worship service at their house. Drove in a convoy around the streets looking for homeless people, giving them blankets and giving them hot meals. This was my highlight... because I felt God's presence on the streets, to the same measure that I would in a worship service... It felt like I was walking on holy ground... God was there... Everyone in the team felt it...

Day 4 (1st April)

'slept in' till 8am. Cleaned the house, team meeting, lunch, out on the streets till 11pm doing the same as we did day 1... talking to the homeless, and hearing what they need... we had some good conversations... people are not looking for the gospel, most already know it by heart, and speak it freely... everyone looks for kindness.

Day 5

Went to the skate park, enjoyed the brotherhood. Went to hippie hill. The city was having a pick-nick... together... drum circle... sat on the hill... met the team from the other San Fran mission... met some of the guys form the homeless church... back to base... went out at night on height street (same area as hippie hill)... talked to people, gave out cookies :) talked to a homeless guy that is a solid believer... I will never look down on a homeless person again... a lot of them are greater believers than I am...

I spoke to one homeless man that helps Ps Evans. He got a place to stay, but then decided to go back onto the streets to help the people where they are at. He chose to be homeless, and minister among the homeless. He sleeps under buildings when it rains, and in parks when it is warm outside. Cops wake him at night, and then he moves to another place... expecting the same... and being fine with it. He eats with Ps Evans and the other guys in their house. And that is his life... making friends with homeless people, hearing them out, helping them get food and clothes, and staying homeless himself... by choice...

When we got home, we cleaned some of the house. The mission was finished. I felt relieved spiritually, but I wanted to continue doing what we were doing this week...

Day 6

We cleaned the house, packing everything. Better than before. Said goodbye. Drove to golden gate bridge. Went to the cool lookout point. Drove to an In-and-out for lunch, then to Starbucks for the drivers to stay awake, then back north on the I-5. When I saw snowy mountains in the west, north, and east I knew we were close... when I saw the cloud trails of planes, and a buzzard, I knew I was in Redding. Unloaded baggage, said goodbyes, got home.

Realizing that Graduation is next month the 16th, and that I'm leaving Redding the 18th... kinda gave me mixed feelings.

Bob Johnson spoke at Sunday night service. I was comforted by his exhortation that we have to persist to find what we seek... just keep at it... you will find it one day... that is how  other people did it...

Monday

slept in. Went to prayer house. Did more washing. Taking a sabbath from the trip, even though I am behind on homework. I will catch up.

The rumors at Bethel say that they want to but 1st year at the convention center... meaning many more people.. and the 2nd years in the sanctuary... I am amazed at rumors here... because all of them have truth in them. Tomorrow and the next day we will be having school at the convention center 4 real. I assume they are testing out to see how the facility handles the school. It sounds like Bethel does stuff... when they look into something, they look into it to do it, and then they actually do it. It tells me that they have a good management system, and a great team of people that get things done.

Life is good, because God is good.

Sat - Mon

Sat
Rest day... I chilled at home, and made some crapes (pan cakes). In the evening we went to the Christiansen's for homegroup. Bring and share. Had a conversation on what I believe on Heaven/Hell/Sheol... and when what happens... doing a Bible study is the best way to figure this stuff out...

Sun
Had church in the morning. Swiped in 15 seconds before being late... so I was happy :) The vicar of Bagdad spoke a bit again, and then Bill said a few words, and then kinda ended the service. I got to pray for a friend that had congested sinuses, and he got 80% better !!! whoohoo !!! God heals :)

Did homework the rest of the day, catching up & reading ahead - because of my mission to san fran is next week. Really getting exited.

Mon
Pray day... weird that it feel like God is silent today... not in a distance kind of way, but in a resting kind of way... I feel Him moving, but not speaking... I desire the anointing of the Spirit. I have felt Him move in greater measures this past week... like a breeze blowing over me.

I have been reading some more of God's generals... it is really good... learning lots from the people in the book... they feel like my hero's, or even my friends that have gone before me. I may not go into ministry like they did... but I am learning how to manage myself and ministry... if ever a revival break out where I am at... you never know :)

Every morning I have been asking myself one question: "Where is God speaking?". It takes me a while to answer this question... but it is SO worth it. This is how I find God's word for today.

I have also been helping someone who wants to come to Bethel. I remember all the admin I had to do to get here... and I knew nothing about where to look for anything... so it was quite a feat to come here with all the bells and whistles in check. So, I was glad today when I could share all the stuff that I learned on how to get here from SA. Making life easier for other people gives me joy. It is the efficiency thing... I love making everything more efficient. This is what is beautiful to me :)

God is loves every person on Earth - regardless.

Wed - Fri

Wed
Kevin D spoke on some more church history and about the churches, leading up to Luther.
Kris spoke on the leadership of David, and his preparation. At revival group, people shared testimonies on miracles that they saw during their missions trip. Afterwards, our house (Charade) went to Martin Flack (house owner) and had a great supper. He was leaving for Alaska in a few days.

I have never walked such deep tracks with a group of guys, as I have in this house. I have never had such intricate conversations with anyone as Johny. I have never heard someone articulate themselves as good as Toby. I have never seen a man with a greater spiritual authority, and rawness, and tenderness than Ruben. Even though the rest are all unique, the above were first for me. (relative experience).

Thu
Woke up feeling that we were not going to go on activation. I though it felt so, because it was raining. This week it has been raining. and raining. and raining some more. God is blessing Redding :)

Andrew White spoke. see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_White_(clergyman)
http://www.frrme.org/
He teaches from a different church stream. Grew up pentecostal, studied anesthetics, and then later studied and became an Anglican priest. He also moved into politics, and was later nominated to help with international relations in the church of England. He was involved in Israel, and later in Iraq.
(can't believe that he is here at Bethel. anyway...)
Christ and some other people spoke. Someone with a book called 'free falling'.
Chris Gore spoke to us at healing activation. and then... we found out we were without leaders... so we stood around, thinking if we should do a treasure hunt. Some were doing treasure hunts ALL their mission trip... so... we decided to go drink coffee and have some team time :) It was the first time in a LONG time that all of us were there... funny that our leaders was not there... but it was good and relaxed, and people talked about their missions over coffee & tea... funny that I felt that we were not going out today... so I was not surprised... but actually happy when coffee was suggested :)

Fri

I decided to bike to school. It was overcast, and it has not been raining in the morning. It rained last night. So off I went... and got drenched... it rained... I left my bike at school... i will get it on Sunday - if it does not rain... DV.
Andrew white spoke again. Security was tighter for some reason, and second years also came and watched him. I loved the atmosphere of family... something the 2nd years carried... and something festive... they laughed and are a good bunch.
Crystal Styles spoke on Nehemiah. Some interesting points, and then ended praying for people that feel called to intercession... and then later for those that feel as if they are is a season of warfare. I never felt called to intercession, but I can hang with intercessors. They are interesting people. And warfare... been there, never want to be there again - thanks. I am in a season of grace and rest... something I have been trying to remind myself of the past 2 months...

Small group Toby and Howard was there & we shared good stuff. I felt like I was able to talk about myself, without being self-aware... something I have been learning to do. It is helpful. Self awareness is not always helpful. anyway...

Andrew White spoke in the evening service again.
He currently has a church in Nineveh - the only Christian city in Iraq. This is the same town where Jonah preached, and where 'doubting' Thomas also preached (on his way to India). He also talked about the glory cloud that is over Ezekiel's tomb in Iraq (Babylon), and how it will return to the temple in Isreal.
I have never heard anything about this, and I have no box for it... so I am just putting the label "interesting" over it... there is no way I can prove/disprove/question/investigate it... just because there are limited sources... anyway.

God is good, as He is, and as He has always been :)

Fri - Tue

Fri
Andre van Mol spoke to us about Christian apologetics. I was tracking with him. Church back home talk about similar stuff. It was good. It is cool to hear an intellectual defend the Christian opinion in public media (including papers).

We had small group, and talked about missions. Then had Eric Johnson speak on the tension between our position in Christ, and being poor in spirit. He thinks like his dad :)

Sat
Slept laaaate... (11am). guess I was tired. Read some, and took things easy.

Sun
Bill spoke on the goodness of God, and  how we should be spreading the message of the kingdom of light (hope) and not darkness (destruction). It takes no faith to to prophecy destruction. If you are shown that destruction is coming, then you should pray against it.

Mon
Prayer and homework.

Tue
Heard some good testimonies from missions that returned :) Then had Bill for Q&A. very good questions and answers. Then AMT. Heard about htn.org (work in Kenya)they have a crazy model for orphanages... basically start many businesses in a town, and start a school, with a church service for the kids, and make sure all the staff love God... talk about transforming a culture.... wow...

Had single life workshop. Talked about our relational history. It was good, and I love the openness in the group.

God is great :)

Thu

Fun day :)

Did set-up, with minimum crew... and actually got there earlier than I though :) I did not bring a book, so I got a prophetic art word. It was on the spot :)

We had Jason do Q & A. Some good points. Activation we prayed for each other for healing. There is always more.

Then we went out on a treasure hunt. It ended with us all being soaked... by rain (the literal kind). It was fun :) It's been a while since I got so wet...

enjoying some pizza now... and hoping to get a lift somewhere... investing in a motor cycle would have been a winner.

God is good :)

Sun - Wed

Sun
Morning service, and chill  (read) the rest of the day. I read up on some Japan news... not the happiest times.

Mon
Read, go for a walk, go to Starbucks for a cinnamon and cream apple cider.

Tue
Encounter day. Spending time seeking God, and trying to find where He is speaking. Having some cheesecake with my small group. Getting an update on Japan.

Wed
Today a 'bad day' became one of my best days. Some days my skin is so dry that it does not stop itching... no matter what cream I put on or anything... i tried it. This morning turned into on of those days... and I was getting irritated. Somewhere within all my irritation I remembered Bob Sorge's message on how God uses trails to bring us closer to Him. In literally a moment, I became aware of God's presence in a way I never felt it before. For the first time ever it was an abiding presence, where I could not make it go away, or increase... I could just rest in it.

This is major. So I biked to the prayer chapel before school. All the way there, I felt His presence. In the prayer house, it just increased by itself. As I am writing this, I can feel it. It is something I can try to describe... but it can not be reasoned out, nor defined, nor grasped. It just is. It feels like I have stumbled upon something that has been there for eons. I can't describe how content it makes me feel.

We had Kevin speak on Islam and Muslims... a bit bias on some points... and I wanted to stand up and confront him :) ha ha :) that would have been funny :) Felt like varsty, with a professor speaking untruthfully. Anyway.

Kris also spoke. Reminded me of stuff. It was good. He spoke about covenant.
Revival group was fun.
Played some rock band with house mates for some fun.

God is good.

Fri - Sat

Fri

Dann on church history. Glad he is not happy about the new version of church history... I also find it a bit sparse... some evangelical person should write a short history on the church... and include some revival history in it... maybe there is a book like that... I am not a scholar / input person... so I do not know... there is definitely room for people to write books in the future - that basically just gather and edit information and makes it into something fluent. You can even publish stuff via Kindle... or via your own site... and then make money directly (no distribution cost). Information mongers... cool job... not me... anyway...

Randall spoke on revelation and scripture... was good. He also said that earthquakes are not a sign of God's judgement, or impending doom... but rather birth-pangs of the Earth waiting for the revealing of the children of God (cool stuff).

We had small group, and then had church were Randall spoke again. He spoke about restoration also. It was good. Then I visited a guy I met at school, and chilled with him and his friends. We watched YouTube video's and played apples to apples - I think I love the game... basically you have to guess what kind of an association a person will agree with the most. It is interesting to see how people make different choices :)

*As a side note, I am finding that some women are more logical than I thought :) I think I have been under the influence of seeing women as emotional and men as logical... my current experience is proving different... There are some men that are more emotional than most women. I also find that the majority of women are more logical than I have thought - maybe this is something about Americans... western reasoning and all... interesting...

Sat

Had a lunch party with people from the single's small group, we ate some French toast, eggs, bacon, crepes (what we call pancakes), and almond raspberry cake. We also played apples to apples... I liked it, and I won (got the most correct guesses) - it is a combination of strategy and reading a person - interesting.

Then I waited at Matt's house, and played some guitar hero... seems like I am getting better at it... slowly...

Then came home and got my free cheez-it sample :) Seems like USA does have free samples :) Personally I think it is because of the efficient postal system... you can just post anything anywhere...

Chilling now till homegroup... kinda tired from last night... got home after 2am... it was one of my latest nights out...

God is always good :)

Thu

Wow... it was/is one of those days you would want to repeat every day of your life... wow...

It was good... we had Randall Worley, talking on the process it takes to get anointing... good stuff.
Then we had activation, and Lee spoke on the difference between law (what we do) and grace (what Jesus did). The new testament is all about what Jesus did, and not what we do. This is the foundation. We get everything in Heaven, on the basis on what Jesus did... nothing on what we do. The second you believed in Jesus, God gave you access to everything in Heaven.. talk about inheritance... He just gave you everything, without giving you any prerequisites. Your faith in Jesus was enough to turn you from going the hell to going to Heaven... your eternal destination and course - changed by a single act of faith.

I have been thinking about the gap between your current experience on Earth, and the truth of Heaven... and how to bridge the gap. Faith it the answer... but it is experientially hard to believe for Heaven to come to Earth. So today I understood that Jesus made a way... between Heaven and Earth, and He bridged the gap... He actually built a bridge between the two worlds... so that everything in Heaven and Earth could be united in / though Jesus. (Col).

So I don't experience it yet... but my experience has more grace, and I feel closer to Heaven... without trying... just because I believe as a mindset that Heaven is close to me, because Jesus brought it close... and as you believe so you will live... and I feel it... anyway... this is a major piece of the puzzle that fits in with everything... Jesus' cross... oh how sweet His sacrifice for me... how bitter it has been for Him, and how great a price He has paid for me... undeserving... freely He gave... unconditionally... I am overwhelmed by His goodness, mercy and kindness to every person on Earth.

This is the good news: He paid the price for you, before you even asked for it, and before you even noticed you needed it. He made you right with God and Heaven through Jesus. Believe this, and you WILL experience it here on Earth.

Heaven is a happy place. Tomorrow is a happy day.

Hold onto the truth, forget all lies :)

God loves you, and did everything for you already.
To enter His goodness, say yes to Him :)

Wed

We had Dann speak to us on church history... he said some good things :)

Kris had us prophecy over the people next to us, and most people got good words :) He then went on to speak about perspectives and how we look at the world. It was good.

We then had Revival group, and a girl testified on how she was healed of being bi-polar, and how that God has blessed her life. It was good.

and God is good :)

Tue

We had worship and then Kris !!! yeah :) I missed him speaking to us... he and Bill was gone last week... so it was good to hear him again... I don't know how I can live without a weekly dose of him... I think I am addicted :) We had Q & A, and he had some good comments on women being powerful, and men looking for women they can live with for marriage... good stuff :)

We then had international transformation... praying & prophesying over North Korea, and hearing news about people working with North Korea... My view of the world is stretched in this track... it is like the combination of intercession, revival, social justice and NGO's... all in one... it is good. Somehow this will be good in the future for me... international relations, and how to change the world today.

Then we had singles group. It was real good. We asked God to show us where we have shame in our lives, and what desire in our heart shame keeps us from being fulfilled. We then asked God again to show us the truth about the area where we have shame. It was good... just to be open about life, and to believe in what God says. Truth... how sweet the taste...

God loves you :)

Sat - Wed

Sat
I was doing something, and then started to feel pressured because I was not working on school work, and then I remembered it was my break day... and so I relaxed :) I went for a walk, and went to the Christensen in the afternoon... ate some Mexican potatoes, and then had a time of soaking, then prophecy for Bret and Valda :)

Sunday
Sunday morning service about following your favor by Danny Silk... good life principle. Then came home, and sorted out my computer. I read some more of God's generals and also went for a brisk walk. I love having a park nearby... where you can just stare at creation... and relax... while walking... Evening service was our last one at twinview (we are rotating). It was a good God-encounter time :)

Monday
Prayer, homework, and going for a walk to clear my mind of all that I have been learning :) ha ha :) more like time to think... or think clearly with fresh air... that''s good :)

I also got a crazy haircut :) done by one of our housemates (Peter the Pirate). It is done well, and adding gel to it makes my hair come alive :) It is crazy... and spiky... but I do not have to look professional... for 3 months... so it can go... It seams that I will never be too old to go to a school :) Maybe I will come back to Bethel and do 1st year again... in 20 years :) It will be fun :)

Tue - Fri

Wow, this has been a busy and long week... with LOTS of growth... in the 'unexpected' & 'by grace' division :) Currently thriving :)

Tue

Today was weird. Kris was supposed to come speak to us, but he went to Latvia :) So things seemed to not go as smooth with the program... or maybe it was just how things were executed... anyway... we had worship and Mark speak. It was okay... maybe the not-so-good-est day I experienced... it was just a weird day.

After school we had our San Fran missions meeting. Got to know a few more people a bit more, and more what we are going to do on the trip. I'm going to o some prophetic art, and also give a 5 min teaching at a youth group. I'm looking forward to it :)

Wed

We had Dann, then Jason (WHOOHOO) then revival group. I just love Jason... some people don't, but I do... he spoke on serving... it was really good. I actually had a dream that morning of me asking him a question... I did not even know he was supposed to speak. And in the Q&A someone asked my question... so it was a God dream :)

In revival group one of the interns (Merlin) spoke on what he has learned in his relationship... he is currently engaged. It was good, and many people had questions and comments... something everyone wants to talk about I guess...

Then I went to visit Zeb :) And watched the Rock :) it has been a while...

Thu

Had Ray Hughes talk to us about 1 Samuel... he has some good stuff... and he also shared about his own life... real good and funny :) He is a Hill Billy Red neck that knows A LOT about the bible, and revival.

Then at activation we had Les Coombs (Healing rooms pastor) speak to us... he spoke what I wrote down just a few day ago, about truth and experience... it was good :) I love Les's heart... he serves the people around him, and is always kind, yet strong... and he has a good belief system also. If ever there was a man that I would intern for, or choose to disciple me...

We went to pray for a lady that has cancer (for our activation). She is on cemo treatment. After we prayed, the atmosphere in the room was totally different. We felt happy, and she was also :)

That night we had a revival group movie night. We ate a lot of popcorn, and watched 'We are Marshall' - a very emotional movie. Before the movie, I talked to a lady that a friend invited with. She went to Toronto, and has been in Israel also, and is an intercessor... So I talked to her, and then asked her to pray for me for a blessing... and then I felt this living water flow down my back. It was great, and I felt God's presence easier.

I decided that I should more often ask people to pray for me for a blessing... to bless my spirit man, and sow into the spirit.

Fri

Today was an anointed day... really... as I am writing this, I can still feel God's presence from today... without even trying...
So here are all the great stuff:
1) I woke up at about 7:15am... before my alarm clock 7:45am that I snooze to 8am... but I did not stay in bed, because I was FULLY RESTED... weird, because I went to bed at about 12:45pm... normally I go to sleep at 11:45pm. So I had an hour and a half LESS sleep, and I woke up rested... good day...
so I had more time this morning, and finished all my work... then lay on the couch soaking...
2) Then I got a ride to church... which saves me time and effort and makes my life easier to come back.
So my morning was really chilled.
3) Then I asked Kyle to pray for me for a blessing... and my speech started to slur... so much presence...
then I went to go do set-up... but...
4) The chairs were mostly set-up already ! I had to put down four chairs... and straighten some... the chairs were done from the previous day... it never happens... because the school uses the place. so that was a weird blessings.
5) Then I met Tom, and asked him for a blessing... and it was good...
6) After Dann we had AMAZING worship... it was as if heaven came to earth. you know when you are in deep worship, and encounter God... well... it was that... and then when worship 'ended', the encounter did not stop... the presence did not leave... and God was still there... it was a weird feeling... having someone preach, but that you have an encounter by just sitting there... we had a fire tunnel mess, and then small group.
7) at small group we prayed for one of our guys, and his sinuses left, and his breathing improved, and his headache left.

I feel like something shifted spiritually after that lady prayed for my last night...

I am enjoying having more God encounters/experiences... and feeling more of His presence...

Nothing can stop the advancing of the kingdom of God.

Grace and Peace to you.
God is good :)

Monday

Mon
Pray day. Realized I can not recreate a prayer room experience at home. Location does matter spiritually. Spent time quietly before God. good. Did homework. Read Micah, Zephaniah, and intro's to them. Also GGW 2 chapters. Went for a LONG walk. Realized what "co-labour" means.

God is happy :)
God is good :)

Sunday (extended version)

So today at art class we played with water colours. We played more than we drew... or that was the idea. Somehow I felt like I a child again, playing with water coulours... something I did way back...

After arts class, I walked to Twinview service. I found myself picking up small objects on the ground, and whistling to myself... interesting... I felt like a boy again... and I started to look at my surroundings like I would have as a boy... looking where I can make my hideout... or what things I could use around me to build something... interesting...

When I got to twinview, I got out my peanut butter jelly sandwich, and pop tart, and ate them while I watched the sun go down over snowy mountains. Flocks of seagulls were riding air currents, and getting higher by circling. Planes flew across the sky miles and miles away, leaving a puffy line of cloud behind them... as if they were painters painting with cloud.

In service I greeted mostly everyone I knew with a hug, and waited for service to start. When worship started, I sought His presence first, and found it. Then I saw different visions. And later I saw visions form according to the music that was being played... it was awesome... I was beholding a painting that they were performing on stage. Then we started to sing of God's love, and I felt His love, and I decided not leave His love. All I wanted was to stay there in His love... that is all that I did... and it was the best experience I have ever had in my life. His love is real love. His love is true love. His love abounds towards us.

Then they said that they will make a fire tunnel, and that those that want to give, can form the line. I went to the line. I want everyone to experience the love of the Father. I can't tell if people did... but some people were touched :)

Afterwards I got a lift back home from a great guy called Zach, with Christian and Locky. I love these guys even though I do not know them... we love each other because we all love God's Presence. It's weird... I love them, even though we have differences... love does overcome all barriers :) Anyway...

I do not usually type out my experiences in such detail... because it is very subjective... and it is a reflection of my current interpretation... and is subject to change... and all that...

But I wanted to write this out... just because it was a life changing day... and somehow I feel different inside... a kind of newness... It started with me reading "God's generals"... and being frustrated with not being powerful... and then talking to God about it yesterday... well... something shifted... I will see...

I love God, and He LOVES me :)

I am smothered in His goodness,
I am overwhelmed by His love :)

God does love you,
even if you don't feel His love... yet :)

Thu - Sun

Thu - Sat
We had a prophetic conference at school, so we had no school... so I took time off to sleep in a bit later (9am) and go for walks more :) and read a bit... and make my laptop more awesomely efficient :) ha ha :) I feel like I want to post a picture of my desktop... just because I am proud of how cool it is. Anyway...

The weather has been cool, and no snow :( even though they predicted it.

A summary of my food intake in America :)

I have learned how to make my own tortilla chips and salsa. They have a lot of chips here that are made from corn.. not only Big Corn Bites and Doritos. It must be one of the things I discovered I really like to eat... baked corn chips... yum...

The dollar pizza's from Winco is also a winner. Add some extra frozen veg over it, add some shredded cheeze... put in the toaster oven (everyone has one)... and enjoy :)

Cerial and milk in the morning, and tea from Winco - Lipton tea :) I also do not drink sugar in my tea anymore... just because EVERYTHING in the US has sugar in it... I mean EVERYTHING :) ha ha :) Even the yogurt has sugar in it. Even the cereal also... by default...

Banannas are a winner. Discovered that you can put them in the fridge, and they go black, but stay fresh inside... so I let them get ripe outside, then put them in the fridge. I take a banana to school, and a peanut butter jelly sandwich :) The jelly is different here. I also make pasta in bulk once a week. I also have tortilla wraps in the freezer. So I have a few options.

Meat: 100% Beef Patty meat, or canned tuna. It is easy to prepare, and we have a griller, so it takes 7 minutes for a patty to get cooked. And storing it does not go off.

I also drink fruit juice, to get my fruit intake. It lasts longer than fruit, and is not as seasonal. If they have peaces - then I buy them - but its not the season.

* My ideal would be to weekly go to a fruit store and fill a fridge with fruit, and then make smoothies the whole time... It takes more fridge space than I have, and more availability of fruit... but smoothies are great... they just make you feel healthy.

I also discovered this bread shop... they sell bread that taste like real bread... just eating a bite of it makes your whole body come alive... Ideally I would live off of real bread... and smoothies... not sure about what kind of protein though... I have not eaten any meat that made me come alive... the closest is fire baked fish with apricot jam... or maybe smoked salmon... I can go with that...

So I should plant some fruit trees, farm with salmon, and bake some bread :)

God is always good :)

O, and Sunday is today, and we had Bill speak on keeping devotion simple, and valuing the cross. I have my last art class today :( and then twinview service. Joy ;)

Wed

Homework. Small group leadership training. Graham Cooke (wow). small group (humbling). home.

Planning my extended weekend...

God is in a good mood :)

Sun - Tue

Sun
Bill Johnson Spoke, Then had art workshop and did acrylics, did not finish my painting :( Then had Sunday night church, then went to In-n-out burger for some soc and shake. Was good.

Mon
Went for a long walk, and read Hosea for homework... it is so good.... God is so full of compassion, even in our worst behavior.

Tue
Bob Jones the future, worship with encounters, Bill Johnson on self-sacrifice. AMT social. Relationship workshop - learning tools on relating. It's good. Learning lots, and changing my views the whole time... shaba.

time for some homework reading...

God is SO good :)

Thu - Sat

Thu
We had Ray Hughes speak to us on David & Goliath. It was real good, he talked about all kinds of interesting facts surrounding the story :)
We had activation and went and prayed for a lady. She said that she felt better :)
We also had house meeting, and it as great :) had some time of prophecy also... real good :)

Fri
Burney spoke, and then we had Ember Days for worship !!! insane !!! I LOVE their music :) comeandlive.com Super cool.
Then we had someone speak that heads up the healing rooms. It was awesome :) He also spoke about Elijah :) super cool :)

After super small group, we talked to a girl from http://sohip.org/. And then i went to social with Zeb :) Played ping-pong, Settlers, and watched Tron (entertaining, cool music).

Sat
Painted with Toby. Made a great painting :) I like it :) Then made some food for the week... making food feels like painting :)

God is cool :)

Fri - Wed

Wow... it has been on one of those weeks... just busy with things... but good :)

Fri
I think we had Dann speak, and then Mark. Then we had small group. People were tired, so it went slow... It was a long week.

Sat
Read, and went for a walk. Enjoyed some sun... the little that was left...

Sunday
Church, art, church. Art was good, did portraits. I impressed myself :) but it took all my mental energy. I was totally drained mentally after that... Art can be hard work some times... felt like I was doing Maths :) Evening service was good. I did a drawing by myself... as part of my worship to God... drew a tree and starry night... reminded me of Abraham and Gods promise for his life.

Mon
Pray day. It started to rain. The week has forecast is for rain. no more summer weather in winter :( I spent most of the time thinking about inventions and things in the prayer house... interesting... Then went home and did research on the inventions... seems like people have done it before :) It is like i need to invent stuff just to find out what is out there :) I am a bit behind on technology... it is advancing so fast... found some cool stuff though :) super cool stuff... and I want an iPad now :) ha ha :) I think it can totally replace all my notebooks... no more need to write on paper ever again... it would be nice :) anyway...

Tue
Had Kris speak to us on valuing relationships above truth, and balancing truth, and applying truth differently to different situations - not to condemn, but always to encourage. It was good.
Had AMT, and talked about the life of Joseph. The AMT stretches my mind in terms of world influence :) Our group is starting to get an idea of what we want to do to address , so that is cool :) game on :)
Then had San Fran meeting. It was good to social with the people... long night... came back home spent... left the dishes for the next morning... I was tired.

Wed
Had Kevin speak on predestination. Good stuff :) and then Bill speak on Jesus being the one that it is all about, and that the prophets longed to receive being filled with the Spirit... we have what Elijah and Moses only dreamed of... Oh God... May we live in it :)
We then had revival group, and a lady from SOZO spoke on finishing the Christian race... good.

God is always good, and God is best seen in the life of Jesus... not in what happens around you :)

Thu

Had a meeting with Troy (intern)
Then Mark spoke on deliverance....
Than we saw some AA Allen clip... funny :)
Then had Chris O speak on the cross :)
And then we heard a very good message on a lady on healing... and how people process it... if they get healed or not...
Then prayed for a lady at activation, and her knee got better, and she said the pain left, and she walk around :)
Then we had a revival group party - ping-pong, pool, cookies, cards, and other good things :)

Good things all around :)

Wed

Had Bible (Dann) and then Kris.

Dann spoke on the poetic books, (1/3 of the Bible), and how we should engage with it with our imagination and heart. The drama and the imagery should speak to us... not only the words. Good stuff.

Kris spoke on All truth not being equal. He also spoke on the the word of God is not the scriptures themselves, but that the word points to God that is the truth. He also spoke on us having to receive our daily bread, and being current with God and what He is saying.

Did some soaking in revival group. Good times :)

God is cool.

Sat - Tue

Sat
Baked scones. went for a walk. Booked my last flight. Now my itinerary is complete.

Sun

Early morning service. Art workshop - did a water colour painting - check
https://picasaweb.google.com/franslight/Usa#5571388892483849026
Then Twinview evening service.

Mon


Quietly thrived today when I saw how obedient US drivers were... cars drive slower when they hear sirens... and EVERY car on the road pulls over when they see an emergency vehicle with flashing lights (even on the opposite side of the road!!!). It looked like an EMP shock-wave hit all the cars on the street :) ha ha :) I thrived :)

Pray day, and homework day.


Tue

Fridge door broke - fun.
Jason Aaronson talked today: http://bit.ly/dWk6vX
Single's workshop was good - It's not about hooking up, but rather learning how to be yourself and communicate with people.

Quotes from The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (Movie)

"Where sky and water meet,
Where the waves grow sweet,
Doubt not, Reepicheep,
To find all you seek,
There is the utter East."
      - Reepicheep


Coriakin: "To defeat the darkness out there, you must defeat the darkness inside yourself. "


Caspian: "I spent too long wanting what was taken from me, and not what was given. I was given a kingdom... people..."


Caspian: "I promice to be a better king"
Aslan: "You already are"


Reepicheep: "...but nothing has dampened that yearning."


Aslan: "My country was made for noble hearts such as yours, no matter how small their bearers be."


Reepicheep: "What a magnificient puzzle you are, and a true hero. I has been my honor to fight besides such a brave one, and a great friend"


Reepicheep: "I won't be needing this" [ sticks his sword into the sand ]


Lucy: "This is our last time here isn't it?"
Aslan: "Yes, you have grown up my dear one"


Lucy: "Will you visit us in our world?"
Aslan: "I shall be watching you always"


Lucy: "Will we meet again?"
Aslan: "Yes dear, one day"


Aslan: "In your world I have another name. You must learn to know me by it. This was the very reason why you were brought to Narnia, that by knowing me here for a little, you may know me better there."

Fri

had the second day of Banov. Good preaching. The finished work of the cross :) It was great to sit on stage with joy-filled friends :) The fire tunnel was good. So much love & joy going around. I think I will make a point to have a fire-tunnel buddy in the future... then you can just receive, and they can lead you through it :) After school it felt like I just had a shower... I felt fresh and clean... after a fire tunnel... with is a semi contradiction...

Then we had small group, and talked about good news, and people's dreams, and how they are bringing it into fulfillment. Really exciting stuff. God also provides, even at the eleventh hour. Two of the guys in my small group received $1000 when they ran out of food. God provides.

Going to see Narnia again tonight again... I know the story, so I can focus on the epic lines :)

God rocks :)

First week of February :)

Tue
Bill spoke to us on Jesus & his disciples, and the multiplication of bread. They were not getting it that God was working through their own hands... its was good.

Also had my San Fran missions meeting. It was cool to meet the people going on the trip. Two guys I am good friends with is already going, so it will be good :) I'm exited to go out, and be myself and love on people, and see God move. It's great :)

Wed
Kris spoke to us on deliverance. It was good. The difference between a captive believing lies, and a prisoner walking in sin, and how to deal with each situation. It looks like a long process... but I believe the anointing will help in the moment.

After school I went to Zeb's house and watched a movie called 'wall street'. It's a hard life for the unsaved, that believe the world is falling apart... but the girl in the movie made it by being SUPER forgiving to the people around her... twice... she is the hero of the movie :)

Thu
Georgian Banov led crazy spontaneous worship today, and then his wife (Winnie) talked on the cross. Christ and His crucified. Some things you have to hear, not with your mind.

Went on activation healing, and saw a guy's hearing improve, and he was able to walk around more than he could before :) Come on :)

Thu - Sun

It's been a while... it's been a busy week :)

Thu
For healing activation we went to a guy that had problem seeing. He was a fashion designer, and wedding organizer in the past. He told us some great stories of his life experiences :) We also got to pray for his wife, and she prayed for some of our team. crazy :)

Fri
Jason talked to us. His stuff is super deep, and super great. So much good stuff.
Had small group, shopped at Walmart, visited Zeb, played RISK :)
Watched Narnia (3rd one) an thrived off the end lines. The movie seemed sparse (content wise), and the history could have been done better, and the story line. Anyway :/ Got home at 1:30pm

Sat
9am got a lift to Santa Cruz - with Kyle & Caleb... and a bunch of other Bethel students, and we went to see/hear/experience John Crowder. He is a tall guy (coming form me), and he is approachable... Gave him a big hug... twice :) His teaching has some good points in it... but I will not sell my life to his movement... he has some good truths... and they are worth thinking about... bought his new book... After 2 sessions we came back, and it was 3am (Sun). Visiting John Crowder shook some of my thinking... more a buzz than a break...

Sun
Woke at 8am... phone was on silent... it sucks... rushed... but got ready in time... and enjoyed some Presence. Had morning service, Art workshop, Evening worship. This will be my normal for the next 4 weeks - a full day.

-----
It is cool to meet new people, and hang with different friendship groups... and travel... and do art... I was thinking that everything was going to be 'same old', but then God gave me all these new things, and friends... And He is giving me major breakthrough in revelation about stuff...

The peace of God that transcends all understanding has increased on my life.

God is good :)

Kingdom Come

Bethel believes in bringing the Kingdom in all areas of life. The way that they do this seem like project groups. People coming together with the same passion, and pursuing changing Earth into Heaven. Leaders carrying a vision, and empowering interns under them that flesh-out the vision. Something to consider in the future...

Wed

Had Kevin Dedmond this morning for a talk on the Spirit and fruit. very good... just abide in God :) Then we had Kris V. He had a surprise birthday on stage, and then we had Q & A. It was good, and he talked about many things...  And then we had him in stall group, and we had more Q & A... he talked about different things... ha ha :)

I had a question, but he kinda answered it. I also came to realize that he does not have all the answers :) And he says that he does not mind not having answers to questions. It seems like Kris is big on hearing God's voice... and asking God what to do in everything... as a first... and then to revert back to Godly values if God does not say something. Seems like I am the opposite... need to turn the cart around :)

Tue

They talked about second year today... my heart has not changed... so it looks like I will be doing it further in the future... (whisper: if ever).

I kind of understand what they do here, and how they do what they do... and how they are so successful... well... all the main ingredients anyway... so... if I want to come for second year, I also have to come for an internship (third year) I think... so that is 2 years... and then wherever that leads me... so I am not feeling the reason for doing second year... seeing the path that it takes you down. It is all about leadership, and applying kingdom... the very things that I will be doing when I come back to SA.

But somehow I feel that I have already learned so much that I could not take in another year...

If I could do second year in SA somewhere, at a church that is affiliated with Bethel... maybe EL... then you are talking... outside of that, I feel like it is too US specific...

Maybe it is just because I feel SA calling me home... I love SA... we have a long road ahead of us, but it is worth the process... I pray God visits SA in greater levels...

[sigh]

Okay :) rant over...

Bill spoke today on his favorite verses:

2Pe 1:10

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

Jam 1:4

But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfectand entire, wanting nothing.

1Ti 4:16

Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will [fn]ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.

And then the need for both love (else you are a clanging symbol), and for faith (to please God).
And some stuff about ministry... and then some Q&A.

Then we had Track, and heard about some cool projects the interns are doing. All things are possible :) Just dream, and dream BIG :) Dream scare big dreams :)

God is good :)

P.S. We prayed for a guy with flu, and his nose cleared up, and he got his colour back :) Yeah God :)

Sun & Mon

Saturday night we had a party for Adrian (from UK), and we gave him some prophetic words. it was good :)

Sunday was a full day.
My alarm did not go off, and my friend woke me by telling me they were waiting in the car for me (8am). I dressed, wet my face and hair, and walked to the car... that was the hardest I ever 'woke up'. 8:30 Bethel church with Kris speaking on the position of women. Then went home, and had breakfast... it is so good to have a quite morning (note to self).

Then I went to Bethel again for an Art class that teaches you many things... it is a 6 week course, and it looks interesting :) I amazed myself by drawing a still life, and having it look decent... as if I never stopped drawing. The guy that tough us was all about the message being more important than the perfection. This freed many barriers in how I tried to draw... and i enjoyed drawing a few pictures.

After that (2-5pm) I walked to twin view for church. First time i walked that path. Then waited for service at 6pm. I had only eaten my brunch breakfast... so I was feeling it... a friend gave me a snacker, which pulled me through. (memo 2 self: pack supper). Then the service was good. It ended more like a dance party than a worship service... so that was kinda weird...

Monday
Walked to Bethel (bicycle was still there from yesterday). It took me 1 1/2 hours... memo to self: take bike home... no matter what... After praying, biked back - it felt great to bike, and not walk :) yeah :)

Got home, made some scones... sort of... experimented with the order of mixing things... and found that baking powder activates in melted butter (memo taken). I also added oats (do this again). I added more milk than normal, because my 3 liter milk was starting to go off (for the first time ever)... and it ended up being very liquidy... It also did not bake properly... (memo taken).

So I am learning new stuff... and I feel like i got answers for things i had this week... so it is good.

This week is still going to be spring-winter... not complaining :)

Coolness...
God rocks :)

Thu - Sat

Thu
We had Sy Rodgers (http://syrogers.com/) com and speak to us. It was really good. He talked about his testimony of coming out of a gay life, how people treated him, and how God found him. He has some real good stuff...

We then had Q & A with Chris O, and then healing activation. This is where I heard the crazy testimony of the 16 people that were risen form the dead (previous post). It is a testimony that I will be meditating on...

Friday
First we had a lady speak to us about miracles that they have been seeing in the medical profession. It was great to hear that doctors were prayed for people to get healed, while doing their work (Duel healers). They also have some testimonies of people being raised form the dead.
Then we had Dann speak to us on Bible translations. Then we had Sy Rodgers again, and he explained more about how the internal mind and psyche works. It was good stuff.

We had small groups, and found out how people were doing, and then prophecied over each other. Good times :)

Saturday
Slept till 9:30. Did some house chores. Cooked some food for the week. (reminds me that I should bake scones again). Went for a good walk (it's windy today). This weeks seems to be another spring week (even though it's supposed to be winter now... weird...

God is good :)

The post that will rock your world

This is the one testimony that has rocked my world completely... it is a lot to read... but it is super good...

16 people were raised form the dead in Brazil... insane...

http://www.ibethel.org/site/testimonies/2011/01/21/sixteen-flood-victims-raised-from-the-dead-in-brazil

Read and share :)

Mon - Wed

Mon
Prayer day. Read some. Went for a walk.

Tue
Mark had a talk to us about finances, and the atmosphere was heavy... correction for dishonor... We had worship, and it was good.
Danny Silk spoke on the wealth mindset from his book Culture of Honor. It was good to hear more of it.
Then we had Mark speak to us on Joy. He went though the scriptures about Joy in the Bible... and basically showed that it's Biblical to be happy :) We ended with some joy... and some floor time :)
In the evening we had a house meeting, and then we had Shelly Gibbs come over. She spoke to us as a women and a mother... Really open about relationships and purity. She said a lot of good stuff, and had good answers at Q & A. It is amazing to live in this house, and have access to so much favor. Chris Vallotton's right hand man is overseeing our house. So it is just insane.

* I prayed for a girl with flue today, and she said that her nose cleared up. Not 100%, but getting there :)

Wed
Had Bible, with teaching on the Spirit. And Kris V. come share some of his mission trip adventures he had last week. It's insane that he has the favor of one of the Bishops in Ecuador. Kris also shared on inheritance, and how laying on of hands work, and how treasure is in the elder people.

I have a lot to think about, and process. God is stirring up a lot inside again, and questions I have answered gets asked again - and I am thinking that my answers is no longer the same.

God is good, and thing are going well :)
I'm not sure if I posted this, but I was chosen as a small group leader. It is different to lead a group again.

I'm also thinking about the future and my options in the next 5-10 years. I have options, which is good, but I want to know what the better choice would be, and if it will be in the right season and place. I am open for change, and how it will look like. I have learned to change visions i have for the future, and keeping the basis for those visions. Visions are not set in stone.

I'm keen to start a group that does dream projects... basically dreaming big, and working on practically getting there... and seeing how far you can go... I think this will be one of my main things in life to do... but i see that it is possible to do that anywhere.

Many questions... and many 'I don't know' answers. I will see :) ha ha :)

Sat & Sun

Sat
Slept late. Played soccer in a park with Peter, Jonny, Harry, and friends from a flat - James, Adrian, Matt, Joel, Chad. We also played American Football [two hand touch]. I really enjoyed it :) must be because I am strategic :) ha ha :)

Then went to a South African get together. Heard some history of some guys, and what they experienced in churches in South Africa, and how they see differently now. It was good to hear about how things are going in other churches. Even though there are difficulties and differences, there is a great sense that God is moving in SA, and that things are happening. I am hopeful to go back to SA to HP Gtown, and start 2 groups that i've been thinking about... one an invention group, and the other a school group.

I've been thinking a bit about how things will be different in SA, and how the atmosphere will be different, and how the people will be different, and how people will not be open to everything... I have learned that agreement is not the main thing, but that relationship is more important.

I am currently reading the book "Heavy Rain" by Chris Vallotton, and it is shaking my mind already... it starts with showing how church will change form denominationalism to apostleship. It's a good read.

I know that Ghandi said that we should be the change that we want to see. Basically it is similar to removing the stick form your own eye first. It is easy to point the finger, and not change yourself. I think this will be my challenge when I return: To love, and change myself.

It is like being able to say so many things, yet not being able to say much. But God knows... so that is enough.

* Also prayed for a friend with a headache, and he said he felt 50% better
* Also prayed for another friend, and he felt numbness and no more pain. It's the second time someone said they felt numbness :)

Sunday
Bill preached the shortest message ever. Like 2 minutes. the rest of the time we prayed for people and sang :)
Afterwards prayed for people as part of the ministry team.
* Guy with flu-ish symptoms said he felt "better". It was not 100%, but it is a change. Something is better than nothing :) I hope he gets better later on.

The people here are so happy that you prayed for them... even if you pray and nothing happens. On the one side it help a lot, so that you do not become discouraged. But on the other side you know there is more. It is easier to stay encouraged automatically in this environment... just because there is no pressure on you to perform. No-one measures your 'success rate' or treats you differently if you 'did not heal them'... nor do you feel any obligation afterwards...

sigh... God is my encourager. He has worked though my life, and He will work more. Greater works than these...

Went for a walk, and saw a great sunset. Orange sky, then red... wow :)

Wed - Fri

Wed
Small group training.
Paul Manwaring spoke to us on glory, and us revealing God's glory though our lives :)
Revival group. Hugging. Releasing words of healing.

Thu
Steve Buckland stoke some more to us, and released some Tiger-ness :)
Did pastor-on-call. Hear some cool testimony, and spoke to a lady that got happy :)
Ice-cream party :)

Fri
*Prayed for my own leg I hurt at the ice-cream party... got 98% healed... its so easy... Jesus heals :)
Had a sozo.
Bill spoke to us on hosting the presence of God.
Had small group.
*Prayed for a friend with a sore back, and his back went numb :) ha ha :) he no longer felt pain :)
Friday night prophetic worship... mmm...

Sat - Tue

Seams like I am out of the swing of blogging :)

Saturday was a rest day. Jesus culture was going on, but I slept in, and tried to rest the day. It was a kinda weird day... it was a long week, and i was not used to school. Anyway :)

Sunday Eric Johnson spoke on inheritance, and then we went to Paul's house for our transformation track group meeting, and watched some Stephen de Silva.

Monday was prayer day, and I also got to play a dice game till 3 am in the morning. Johnny, one of my house mates, created a paper game. It is a role playing game on paper. It was real fun :)

Tuesday, had some Jamba Juice just now... Fruity healthy goodness :) Looks like it will be raining this week. We had Steve Backlund speak to us today. wow. If you need a mind overhaul, then get your hand on any of his books :) He has a real good view on who we are, and what the world/enemy says we are. The truth is that we are who God says we are, even if we experience a temporal discrepancy :) God's truth is the only truth. I don't live in denial, I just don't agree with my experience :)

Cool stuff. Looking forward to the week :)

Funny that the guys say I say "powerful" and "cool" a lot :) ha ha :)

Friday

It's been a long week, but it has been good.

Today we had Dann speak on some Bible homework, and then we did some work in class, and then we ended class early because of the Jesus Culture conference that is happening.

This morning before class, there was a visitor that was standing in the lobby and had a paper on his saying that BSSM students can pray for him :) It's a great way to start school... just to awaken your spirit :) it was fun.

We also ended with a fire tunnel, and I was asked to pray for people :) It is my second time to be praying in a fire tunnel, and I prefer the praying side... just because you receive way more :) ha ha :)

After class we had small groups, and I was voted to be the leader / point person for our group. I was still under the effects of the fire tunnel... and I had difficulty stringing a sentence... now I know how Mark must feel when he tries to speak while on stage... it's not that easy... seems like your brain stops firing thoughts...

Howard prayed for my arm after church, because I must have hurt it while praying in the fire tunnel... the pain left, and it is 100% now :)

We also prayed for one of the guys in our group for sinus and he said he felt tingling in his face. He seemed to be doing better after we prayed for him :)

If i knew healing was this easy, then I would never have made such a big deal about it... and would have gotten into it way sooner :) I think my mind was the greatest barrier to me believing that God can heal people through me. Healing is not something you do, it is something God does through you ;)