Character character character by One of the Warrior Priests deep in the enemy territory

Do I need this stuff or can I live without it? Well, you could exist without it but it’s because of character that you were born.

Put it this way, God said, “Now we will make humans, and they will be like us. We will let them rule the fish, the birds, and all other living creatures.” What does this “like us” refer to? You guessed it – character. Why? Because character is who and how we are each day – God’s Son has all the brightness of God’s own glory and is like him in every way.  This is the reason we were made: to know GOD and fill eternity with all HE IS.

Easy hey? Not.

We as the human race chose to follow the ways of Lucifer, a rebelling angel. God’s eternal WORD said: “Your father is the devil, and you do exactly what he wants. He has always been a murderer and a liar. There is nothing truthful about him. He speaks on his own, and everything he says is a lie. Not only is he a liar himself, but he is also the father of all lies.”

This is why JESUS came and died for us, so that through HIM being raised from the dead, HE could now set us free from serving satan the devil, so we can know and become like GOD in character to the rest of the human race so they can get to know HIM and obey HIM through you!. Our instructions for being made and responsibility for having a body are clear: obey GOD by getting to know HIM first. How do I do this? By believing HE exists and desiring to find HIM. GODS SPIRIT will lead you but it’s your choice to obey.

The bible introduces us and speaks as GOD HIMSELF. This might all sound simple and on paper it is, but because our world is so full of disobedience to GOD, we sometimes don’t realise how much changing GOD actually wants from us. All I can do is encourage you on and say never give up until GOD is done – you won’t regret it.

Christ encourages you, and his love comforts you. God’s Spirit unites you, and you are concerned for others. Now make me completely happy! Live in harmony by showing love for each other. Be united in what you think, as if you were only one person. Don’t be jealous or proud, but be humble and consider others more important than yourselves. Care about them as much as you care about yourselves and think the same way that Christ Jesus thought: Christ was truly God.

‘But he did not try to remain equal with God. Instead he gave up everything and became a slave, when he became like one of us. Christ was humble. He obeyed God and even died on a cross. Then God gave Christ the highest place and honoured his name above all others. So at the name of Jesus everyone will bow down, those in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. And to the glory of God the Father everyone will openly agree, “Jesus Christ is Lord!” My dear friends, you always obeyed when I was with you. Now that I am away, you should obey even more. So work with fear and trembling to discover what it really means to be saved. God is working in you to make you willing and able to obey him. Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Then you will be the pure and innocent children of God. You live among people who are crooked and evil, but you must not do anything that they can say is wrong. Try to shine as lights among the people of this world, as you hold firmly to the message that gives life.’ [Philippians 2]

The Comforter by Crystal Beveridge

When your soul is so heavy and burdened with doubts
When your candle that’s burned bright looks set to go out
When you’re wondering whether to finish the race
Remember that God has promised His Grace

The tears that you shed when no one can see
The ache in your heart that no one can know
The feeling of longing, the emptiness of loss
Are all known to the One, who understands from the cross

He understands when there are questions and even some doubts
And every teardrop you shed he captures and counts
His arms are wide open as a father to His child
And He’s waiting to comfort when your heart feels wild

So even when you feel that there is no one who shares
The feelings of darkness, of loss and despair
The comforter comes like a sun in the night
And wraps you in love and renews your fight

The Father of Heaven knows your every hair
And is loving you even when you feel he’s not there
The sweet Holy Spirit will bring comfort and strength
As you lean on His arms of immeasurable length.

By Crystal Beveridge

Hot off the Press in Burundi

Hi!

In a week when two of our partners are opening new schools which have been built in conjunction with Fields of Life, I wanted to fill you in on some recent activity. So much is going on. If you want more regular (twice/month) news, then do get back to me requesting to be added to that list, but otherwise I know that many of us already get too much email as it is.

Anyway, this time last month I asked you to pray as our young teams of evangelists were about to launch out on a week of bold outreach in Burundi. All I can say is, as with every year we do this, thanks so much for praying. I’ll just share a few of the incredible stories below from the many that could be told. God is amazing! Take a read of an extract of what Onesphore sent me:

A famous witchdoctor called Makari from a place called Isale received what he thought were prospective ‘clients’ into his den. His reputation went before him and so our evangelists wanted to challenge his authority. When they revealed their identity, the power of God came on him and he fell to the ground. When he came to, he sat and listened to their preaching. He believed in Jesus and asked them to return two days later when he would burn all his charms publicly. When they duly returned, they found Makari had invited all his relatives and other witchdoctor friends. He declared before all of them that he had turned to Christ, and proceeded to burn his charms. At that point our team preached and a further fifty people decided to follow Christ! Makari is now a member of Emmanuel church, along with his family.

Also in Isale, a team of evangelists went to share the gospel in a bar. While they were talking, a young man became very angry with them. The following day, this antagonistic man came to see them, and gave his life to Christ. He then told them that when they were preaching in the bar he had been about to beat them, but when he had tried to stand up to attack them, he had felt a mighty hand jamming him down in his chair, and that undeniable power is what forced him to surrender his life to Jesus.

Young Libere was on one of our teams in Busiga. He’d never seen a healing miracle. And yet, he found himself witnessing to an old woman who had been paralyzed for three years. He sensed the Lord telling him: “Miracles accompany the preaching of the Word.” So he responded in obedience and faith, and commanded the lady to stand up. She stood up immediately and started dancing with joy! Libere was amazed to see the power and faithfulness of God. He exclaimed: “Now I believe that God is powerful and can work with whoever believes in him regardless of his age or denomination. I will spend the rest of my life proclaiming the love of God.”

Zubeda was a Muslim woman from Bubanza . Her son was very sick and she was in despair. When the evangelists visited her, she didn’t want to listen to them share God’s word but she did agree to let her son be prayed for. The following day, the evangelists found Zubeda full of joy and testifying that her son was healed. She asked them to share the gospel with her that she had formerly refused, and promptly gave her life to Christ.

There are many more stories, but that’ll do to give you a taster. The staggering statistics of the week are as follows:

•    607 young evangelists from different provinces of Burundi were sent out to 34 different areas. They spent a week visiting people in their houses, in market places and wherever they could meet them.
•    During that week, 41,020 people heard the gospel shared one-on-one, with opportunity to ask questions and discuss.
•    Of those, 17,789 people accepted to pray to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. Among these people were 103 Muslims and 51 witchdoctors.
•    20 persons paralyzed were healed, 8 deaf people recovered their hearing, 2 blind people were able to see again, 23 couples on the brink of divorce reconciled, 5 people on the point of committing suicide gave up with that plan.
•    Five new churches were planted and now have regular meetings (the idea in the main was to work with existing churches).

Please do pray for the follow up and discipleship of all these new believers, which we are committed to, although in some areas it will be stronger than in others.

Also please pray for the situation in general in the nation as there is seemingly a new rebellion forming, and a number of people have been killed in the last few weeks. If the war is renewed, it would be simply terrible for already broken Burundi. Let’s stand against that in Jesus’ name.

Thanks so much for your involvement. I hope the above encourages you, and I pray that God will grant each one of us something of the urgency, boldness, and willingness to step out and take risks that characterize those guys in what they did just a few weeks ago. Different context maybe, but same Lord, same gospel, same command to go and be his hands and feet in this messy world.

Go for it!

Simon Guillebaud
Great Lakes Outreach
www.greatlakesoutreach.org
www.more-than-conquerors.com

Hope by Suzaan Maree

It is that miraculously intangible thing that motivates the human spirit to believe that a beautiful thing awaits beyond the next horizon.

I once heard a lady tell the story of driving home and drawing a beautiful analogy from it. It was a journey of a few hours, just enough time to reflect on everything that was not going her way in her life.

It was winter and the usually lush landscape was barren, to suit her outlook.  As she watched the empty trees wizz by she noticed something that seemed entirely out of place.  There were blossoms on the bare branches, some of them were even budding.  It seemed entirely strange, it hadn’t rained yet, it was still winter!  God encouraged her with a sentiment she shared with us.

Blossoms herald the coming spring, they signalled for her that our Father brings reprieve before winters end.  He gives us hope before any of our circumstances signal that we have any right to hope for something different or better.

That is just the nature of His character, while we are still immersed by the seemingly insurmountable He reminds us that His promises are true.  For those who seek Him with all their hearts, He has “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer 29:11-NIV).

When you are experiencing winter and the blossoms of hope appear, please ensure that you surround yourself with people who encourage that hope.  “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom 15:13-NIV).

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And HOPE does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” (Rom 5:3-5-NIV).

Out of this World by Anthony Ricco

So, what is the deal with this whole persecution thing?  We need to know it is still happening today – A LOT.  This isn’t some kind of torture back from the Roman days – it is here now and in a very ugly way.

In fact, everyone who wants to live a Godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.  Our King of Kings was persecuted, who are we that as servants we deserve any better?

In countries like Eritrea, Christians are locked up in shipping containers, they are packed so tight they have to take it in turns to sit down. There is just 1 small hole cut into the roof for air to come in – so small that no one can squeeze out, so they take turns standing on one another’s shoulders to breathe fresh air. There are no toilets, so they have to do their business inside there, somewhere, and it is the middle of the desert in a metal shipping container, the days are boiling and the nights freezing.

These people are put into jail, labour camps and sometimes killed because they want to spread the Good News of the Gospel (which is everyone’s call by the way – Mt 28:18-20), but we who are free won’t even go out and reach the lost, we are willing to let people go and burn in eternal hell because we are too lazy and spiritually complacent to do anything about it.

You see, the Bible says quite plainly that we are not of this world; we are just in it (Jn 15:19).  And I think people like those in Eritrea and other persecuted nations live in that revelation. I think we in the western world live with the mentality that tomorrow we need to work so we can eat and feed our families, and we think we need to do stuff – even stuff for God.  The problem is I don’t think God wants our stuff, He wants us – and by that I mean every fibre of our beings.  Now I’m not saying go and forsake your calling that God has given you, but make absolutely sure that you are not living out your calling as your relationship with God: first and foremost must be your relationship with the Most High God and your calling will flow out of that.

And anyways, what can we really do for God? You think He wants you to warn someone about something? He used a donkey for that (Num 22:30). You think He wants you to give food to people who need? He used ravens for that (1 Kings 17:6).

I mean, does He really want us to do stuff, or does He really want us – our hearts, our worship?

So, back to the guys in the container. They are there because they aren’t just doing stuff for Him, they are there because they’ll worship God no matter what. They are no longer of this world – they can see the things God has promised to them and they’re not caught up in the rubbish that this world has to offer.  They want God and they are willing to give up all they have to follow Him.

So you may be asking what this has to do with you. Living in your house in your ‘free’ country.  Well firstly, lets see how free you really are. Here is a challenge: go into an airport and start preaching to people there, tell them that they have sin in there lives and need to repent – or go to street corner or a casino or even maybe inside your church – see how free you are, or here is one, go and tell people what you believe about abortion, or homosexuality or even about sex before marriage.  How long do you think it will be before someone says something to you, or about you, or asks you to leave?

Now please don’t get me wrong – I’m not the burn your Koran’s on 9/11 kind of guy. We need to do things the way Jesus would have – and that is with unconditional love. We can’t knock someone who has had an abortion or sex before marriage, that’s sin and we all were sinners, and if we make them hate us while we represent God then we’ve not showed them the way.  Come on this is common sense.

When we are up front about our God and His Word, that is how persecution starts, not because we are hurting or breaking down the people we are talking to but because the devil cant stand it when God is glorified and people hear about His mercy. By Christians not being afraid to share what God has shown them, by us all having compassion and love for the lost and telling them there is an escape.  When we start doing that then it wont be the ‘in’ thing to be a Christian – I wont just say I’m a Christian because that’s what my parents were.  No, to say you are a Christian will mean you need to stand out, to be set apart from what the world is doing – and when the world sees us as different, not blending in with them, not fornicating or taking drugs or getting drunk or doing the things the world does.

When we do this then one of two things will happen – The first is the more common one:  it is because they see there is something different about us, that we have the joy of the Lord all the time and it is our strength – they’ll want it and come to know Jesus.

The second is that they’ll hate us because we have what they want – and we may be the next ones to be put into a container. Question is – are you willing, or are you still of this world?

Riffs and Rails:  Heinrich Thiart

Let’s catch up with Heinrich, a dude that has grown up in the windy city of Port Elizabeth. He is busy with his internship and really excited about life. When he not skating up a storm, he’s thrashing away at his guitar. He believes in discipleship and helping people get integrated into their local churches. He wants skaters to be a generation that can change the world by starting within themselves, let’s check some facts on Heindrich.
Personal:

Name? Heinrich Thiart

Age? 21

Hometown? Port Elizabeth

Background? Where you grew up, what you did as a kid – any interesting things.

I grew up in Port Elizabeth, so I’ve always been a city kid, I was kind of nerd as a kid and never really got out much, but my brother and I always used to skate in our backyard on a few narrow concrete strips.

What do you do for a career?

At the moment I am doing an Internship with SonSurf/SonSkate.

Did anything that happened to you while you were young influence you into your career choice?

Definitely, I skated a lot as a kid and then stopped when I got older, but somehow I started again and a few months after that God lead me to SonSkate.

Where and what did you study?

I studied BA-Music Technology at the University of Stellenbosch, I never finished but got out after 2years with a Grade 6 Certificate in Classical Music and a Grade 5 Certificate in Music Theory.

What do you do for fun?

I still enjoy skating a lot; I also play in a Heavy Metal Band.

What is the most relevant topic on your heart at the moment?

To be closer to God and find more clarity and direction for next year and the future.

So you’re in a band, tell us about the band?

The Band is called Sound The Seraphim, we are a heavy-metal band consisting of 6 members, 3 of the 6 are brothers and we all love Jesus.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sound-the-Seraphim/118102534885312?ref=ts

How did it get started?

The Band always struggled to get members with enough skill and the same passion for Christ. It got to the point where they only needed a guitarist. I met Jason (band vocalist, one of the brothers) through SonSurf in PE earlier this year, after we got to know each other he asked me to join.

How long’ve you been sessioning with the guys?

Naturally the brothers have always been jamming together, but I have only been playing with them for a few months. Its been going really good and we have a few gigs in Cape Town and Joburg later this year.

Where do you see the band going and what are the objectives in future regarding the Kingdom of God through the music?

The main objective of the band will always be just to have fun and through that be a presence on stage and at the gigs. We also write lyrics with meaning and try to relate to everyone that listens to our music. Because Metal is usually regarded as negative and is associated with negative elements, we try to bring the light into these dark places and share the love of Christ. We are also always open to share and love to connect with people that would probably never go to church, just to plant that seed.

Extreme Sport:

How old were you when you started your Extreme Sport?

About 11 years old, but I stopped at 14 and then only started again at 19.

Where do you get inspiration?

Mainly from God and from others around me, people I work with and look up to, experiencing God through others.

What has Skating taught you about yourself?

Its way more fun to do something for the love of it, than to do it because you want to be the best at it!

What has it taught you about God?

That through God we have no limits and anything is possible through God.

What are some of the best gigs you have had the opportunity to be involved in?

Being part of the media team at the Billabong Pro, I’m also looking forward to being part of the annual Vertically Insane Comp in Stellenbosch that is coming up later this year!

What influence does God have in your sport?

He keeps me calm and helps me to enjoy doing what I do.

I see you do a lot of work with a Christian outlook; do you believe that even your time and profession should be tithed?

Definitely, everything we do, we do for God and all our time belongs to God, so without a doubt I believe that all that we do should be in honor and for glory to God.

Son Sk8 and Son Surf

http://www.sonskate.co.za

What is your aim and purpose for SonSk8?

Our aim is to get skaters saved, but not just to stop there, but to get them discipled and integrated into their local churches. I want skaters to be a generation that can change the world by starting within themselves.

I see you have an internship, tell us a bit about it?

The SonSurf/SonSkate Internship is a program designed to equip leaders for further involvement in Surf and Skate ministry. Through the program you learn everything from managing finances to running Camps and Contests and Biblical Study. All of this equipping you to be a better leader.

God:

Where do you feel God is taking you, or Sonsk8?

I feel that God has led me to SonSkate for a reason and I know my involvement is going to continue in some way or another. I am really passionate about the skating and other alternative cultures and I want to see them saved and living for God.

Do you think you guys can make a Kingdom impact through the sports?

I would like to think that we are already making an impact, I have seen a lot of lives changed and through skating we have brought many people to know God.

Any message to the Skaters and Surfers out there?

Keep on doing what you love, but remember that all the things we love so deeply on this earth was created by God and we enjoy it all to give praise.

Any closing words?

Prayer request for Stellenbosch Skatepark please…

Don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in. Be the light wherever you go and blaze out the darkness!

The SonSkate Stellenbosch skatepark has been running for the last 3 years and now needs to move. At the end of the year we will be losing our venue ‘The Shed’ and we are in a desperate search for a new spot. Over the years the park has influenced a lot of kids and has been like a home to others. Through the park many kids came to know the Lord and it’s been such a blessing for all those involved.

It is an indoor skatepark of about 1000m2, which is quite big, so finding a venue that size for free is not easy. We would love to keep the park in Stellenbosch and we know the kids here don’t want to lose their park, but at the moment anywhere in the Cape Town area is an option. Our time is running out and we need your help to keep the hopes and dreams of all the SonSkate Stellenbosch Skaters alive!

If you have any information that could help us find a venue for the skatepark please let us know. Leave a comment or contact us via email or phone.

Chris van der Merwe chris@lifelight.co.za 0729927408

Through the Lens with Shekinah Photography

Personal:

Name? Sylvia Shekinah Steed

Born: 7 October 1989

Hometown? Johannesburg

Do you have a webpage? www.shekinahphotography.co.za

Facebook page: Shekinah Photography

Background? Where you grew up, what you did as a kid – any interesting things.

Wow, now I feel like a celebrity. Do you really want to know about my childhood? I am born, bred and ‘grown’ in Johannesburg, I have 1 sister and 2 brothers, I have the most amazing, extremely close family who all love each other a lot!

Growing up, I guess I did normal kid things , I remember that we were always busy doing something, whether it was dressing up or playing in the mud. Boredom was not a word we used often. I know I flew a lot all over the country with my mom. I have photos in planes and places, but I can’t remember the places, hotels or functions. I think I was being child-minded most of the time by hotel babysitters with crazy stories.

Some things stick out; like the time I convinced the little boy next door to hold hot ice in both his hands for 10 minutes. His father was chilly-hot with anger and I was horrified when I saw his hands. The outcome wasn’t very pleasant so I’ll leave that story right here. Oh Yes, one morning ,in Spring time, my cousin and I wanted to make money and the only available stock on hand was my sister Kerry’s wardrobe, filled with her girly stuff. We pulled, priced, folded, separated, emptied, made a ‘for sale’ sign and had a PAVEMENT SPECIAL. Everything was R2. We thought the rain had come to ruin our selling skills but it came to protect us from eternal chores and the wrath of my mom, because her wardrobe was to be our next target.

My parents were involved in foster care, so we often had many children from all walks of life and unpleasant situations in and out of the house. In 2005 they registered as a children’s home, so there’s always been and still is noise and excitement and also something constantly happening.

It often feels as if I came into this world knowing God, I have never known or experienced not having God in my life, it’s almost as if Jesus has always been a part of my DNA. I grew up being very involved in church life; my mom has been involved with ministry ever since I can remember. For me, whether it was youth, children’s ministry, dancing, or the worship team, helping with productions, outreaches etc. It’s always been a part of who I am. On the other hand, I was never sheltered from the world like so many ‘Pastor’s kids’ are. I was allowed to know how the world lived, how a Godless world thought, what a Godless world expected. That made me never want to let go of my relationship with my creator and that decision, was one I constantly make on my own without ever feeling forced or scared into the Kingdom.

What do you do for a career?

I do Photography for weddings, events, functions, as well as help run a children’s home. (A section 21) called Footprints-P.L.A.Y. children’s home. P.l.a.y. is an acronym for Participating in the lives of Africa’s Youth. I am involved with corporate fundraising and assist in organizing events for not only the home, but for various parts of the community. I teach in the mornings and o all the international communications for P.L.A.Y.

Did anything that happen to you while you were young influence you into your career choice?

I guess growing up with people, children and outreaches ever since I can remember, was an automatic decision I flowed into. My photography was something that I began to feel passionate about quite a few years ago. I loved the captured memories that were forever caught on print and that would always be reminders of moments and events. I believe that Life is a journey, and being able to capture that journey, whether for myself or others is a privilege and a desire that continues to grow and expand daily.

Where and what did you study?

I Studied Photography through Intec College. Practical lessons with established Photographers. Job shadowing people who share the same heart for printed memories and I continue to study the school of life, which is an ongoing daily learning experience. I am currently studying Studio work as well as editing skills.

At the moment are you working in a company or are you freelancing?

I have my own company, SHEKINAH PHOTOGRAPHY. A couple of months ago, I established and set up my own studio, so I work for myself. I have also recently freelanced for a few companies.

What are the benefits of working like this?

I manage my own time, so when I’m not working (which means I’m editing or doing stuff for P.L.A.Y.)  I have flexible time frames to do what I need to get done even after hours. I can also work anywhere as long as I have my Mac (my baby) and my camera.

What do you do for fun?

The normal, go to movies, go for coffee with friends, I have friends who are musicians, singers and management with the Barnyard theater so I go to a lot of their shows and try to make a difference in their lives by loving them for who they are and I trust that they see Jesus in me by my actions, attitude and lifestyle. I have many friends who are part of various churches and we hang out together just having the odd movie night, or girls supper night or Saturday fun days with the Footprints kids on the farm. I am fortunate that I have friends in so many different walks of life which I love because of the different flavor they bring into mine.

What is the most relevant topic on your heart at the moment?

Sho, I don’t think there is ever only one topic, I always have so much going on in my head and heart!  God, my friends, family, work, future vision, growth in every area of my life. I think enjoying life and finding contentment in all I do and in who I am as a person is always relevant to me. So, it’s never just one topic.

Creativity:

How old were you when you found your creative streak?

Sheesh, it’s hard to pin point an age. I always enjoyed photos, no matter who took them. I also enjoyed music and still do. My parents were both musicians so I grew up hearing guitars, keyboards, singing and watching my mom play base, which I thought was so cool. They were in a rock band when I was really little.

I was always around people with camera’s and at  corporate events, family  or church functions, my mom would  often hand me the camera and say “ take photo’s please”  She was involved with photography, in front and behind the lens  and because a camera was a part of her wardrobe, I began to enjoy it more and more. When the school part of my life was over, I thought, why do something I don’t have a passion for? Why study just for the sake of studying, work simply to earn an income? Surely there had to be something that would excite me, I needed to find excitement and satisfaction, something that I would love. Photography brings the creative streak out in me, it’s something that I LOVE doing, not because I have to but because of the pleasure it brings to me. In the studio, from behind the camera, I love watching the creativity that photography brings out of people. It’s the best feeling. I also sing, play guitar, a little bit of base and absolutely love music.

Do you think that people are born with creativity or that it’s inside us all?

Um, I think people are born with certain talents and creativity, but I also think some things can be taught, there are however, certain things you just need the natural creativity for! Like dancing for example, you can be taught to do moves, but if the natural rhythm isn’t there, then it could be a slight problem. Or singing if someone is tone deaf? Not too pleasant. With photography, I have been told that there has to be some creativity, or ‘an eye for a good shot.’ I guess if the passion and drive is there for something, many things can be learned and developed. We teach the kids at Footprints how to take photos amongst other things and I’m sure one great photographer will surface from our efforts.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I’d have to say from people, but also from moods and atmospheres. When I see the work of other people that I admire, I truly get inspired. I emailed a guy the other day whose work I saw and loved. I told him how inspired I was and how brilliant I thought his work is.

What has photography/your creativity taught you about yourself?

To always try something new, and expand on my creativity etc. That I can capture magical moments, that being stagnant with my work is a choice that I alone can make. That I am responsible for keeping my passion alive and exciting and that boredom is a choice and an attitude.

What has photography/your creativity taught you about God?

AAAH, that’s an easy question. It’s taught me EVERYTHING. ALL THINGS. I see God in every photo I take. I would need a whole book for this one. In Creation, in a smile, in a moment, in the colors, In EVERYTHING.

Photography

Why is photography important to you?

Its expression, of self, of others, it tells stories, its memories. It’s magical. I think I’ve answered this question many times somewhere in the other answers.

What are some of the best things you have had the opportunity to work on?

I have done so much, from events to weddings. I did the Masters of Dirt show a few years back, which was awesome! I’ve done quite a few fashion shoots, C.D. Covers for artists, a leather handbags brochure, a concert for the Barnyard theatre magazine, portfolios and I’m loving studio work. It’s all good.

What influence does God have in your work?

God has influence in everything! My work would be plain and boring if He wasn’t a part of it,  so many times when I’m at a shoot I’m trying to find the perfect angle, or setting, or composition, and I just quietly say “God please help me, this is yours” and He does!  He’s my partner, my assistant, my inspiration. Whether it’s something small, or huge, He is always faithful!  I always pray before a shoot and ask God for guidance in everything I do.

Do you prefer being in front or behind the camera more? Tell the truth.

Ha-ha…That’s funny. Actually, both really, although I only like being in front of the camera when it’s with other people, or doing something random and funny. Being crazy and spontaneous, capturing my favorite pouting expression. I’m not into ‘stand and smile’ I’ve told you why I love being behind the camera, but being in front of the lens is a fun activity too.

Do you agree that a picture is worth 1000 words – why?

Sometimes, a picture can tell a story that no written words can match. No descriptive wording can capture the visual impact that a photo can have. Often I think people listen with their eyes.

Who is your favorite photographer?

I don’t have just one favorite; I have different favorites for different fields of photography. For scenery and nature I love Ansel Adams. Annie Leibovitz is brilliant and world famous – her photo’s are a work of art, Johan Pretorius, Colin Mead, Paul Kline. There are so many brilliant photographers who inspire me.

Does the price of a camera make a difference to the quality of a photo?

As much as camera quality does make a difference, you can have the top of the range camera but not have a good eye for the subject. If people’s heads or feet are cut out of a picture, the price makes no difference. I’ve seen A LOT of that. And have learned how not to do it. You can have a mid-range camera but if you have captured the moment, that’s what matters! I think editing programs can also enhance a photo taken with a normal point and shoot camera. I guess some photographers are like musicians, we always look for what’s new, fresh and full of new features. I recently bought a R450 funky camera that takes really cool pics. It uses film, which is unheard of today, but I love it.

What makes someone a good photographer?

Their patience, attitude and creativity in taking a specific shot, if the subject’s personality and character is captured in the photo, that’s a good photographer. I also think if a photo is taken and doesn’t need hours of editing with Photoshop or other programs, that’s a good photographer. Don’t misunderstand me, I love Photoshop, but too often a photo is edited so much that when you compare the before and after shot, it doesn’t even look like the same photo. So which one is real?  Am I making sense? There’s nothing wrong with enhancing a photo. As long as it doesn’t look like Photoshop took the photo and not you.

What is your favorite piece of equipment?

My cameras… ha-ha I love my Tamron 18-250mm Lens. My lighting equipment, too much too single one out.

When you get commissioned on a job – how does your work flow happen – can you walk us through one of your typical jobs?

Well it’s different for each job, obviously if it’s a wedding I’m at the venue before the bride, taking photos that will mean something to the couple, and then capture them getting ready. Leaving for the service, arriving, at the ceremony the traditional photos, the reception, and then the traditional cutting of the cake. A wedding has a lot more ‘directing’ (if you’d like to call it that) because I’m constantly telling people how to pose, what to do, where to go. It’s the same with a studio shoot, I direct the person and encourage them to do different poses, use different props, and show me different expressions. The most tiring job is probably a wedding, because it is very time consuming, a lot of meetings take place and I can be busy for about 11 hours, depending on the reception and time, and then of course the endless hours of editing afterwards. I also think it’s important that I form a relationship with the couple before the wedding so that I know their expressions and preferences.

Generally everything just flows, I’ve never been like “ok, what now?”

I never want to be unprepared or I might come across as if I don’t know what I’m doing. I guess you’ve just got to be confident in your ability and your equipment, go in there with that confidence, have a positive attitude just go for it and enjoy the day!

A major challenge in Photography is taking risks. You have to take risks, as you slowly start getting more confident, taking risks becomes easier. Sometimes those are the best photo’s or jobs.

How many photos do you usually take on an average Job?

Well when I do a wedding I take an anything from 2 000 to 4 000 photo’s

A photo-shoot, anything from 500 to 2 000

Digital or Film?

Considering the amount of photos, I use Digital. Though I must say that I would love to have a dark room one day.

Since you have started working as a photographer have you lost any of the fun it was when you were just playing around with it?

No, not all, I have my days where I don’t feel like taking pics, but then I get more days where all I want to do is go round with a camera.

Someone once told me, if you don’t want to pick up the camera today, then don’t.  That’s good advice.

What is the most important thing that you want people to think of when they look at your work?

I just want them to see it’s done from my heart and done with excellence, it may not be a perfect image, but it’s done with excellence.

Shekinah Photography

How long has you company been going?

I have been taking photos for a long time as a hobby, but Shekinah photography has been official for over a year. Shekinah is my second name and it means the Glory of God, which I hope my photos show.

What equipment do you use?

I use a Canon 30D, a 350D, and a variety of lenses. (But I have my eye on the Canon 50D)

What is your favorite photo that you have ever taken?

Wow, that is a difficult one…  How do I pick just one? I think I have a different favorite for different stages of my life, various events and in different categories.

But one of my favorites is this  one I took of a good friend of mine on a trampoline, it sounds random I know, but it turned out really creative, it’s fresh and I LOVE it…

Any projects you are currently working on?

I have a few photo-shoots lined up and also another Vogue-style handbag shoot, which I’m really excited for, because we’re going to have different ‘sets’ and I have so many ideas in my head for it, it’ll be quite challenging which is making me look forward to it even more.

Footprints

Tell us about Footprints and your involvement?

I’m one of the committee members, (sounds important). I am in charge of the pre-school and teach the kids, I handle most of the communications, so when people want to come and spend time with the children, do team building events, fun days, whether  someone is planning a day trip, or a year long stay (missionaries), I’m the contact person. I help organize the admin, and the media, I help update the website, I’m responsible for all the children’s documents, the clinic trips and whatever I can do to help. Oh, I nearly forgot, help organize fundraisers, which are constant happenings, because we self fund everything.

What is the objective of Footprints?

The objective of Footprints is not to bring children into a children’s home, but into a FAMILY. To bring them up as normal children, who are loved and wanted. To help them not to live with an orphan mentality, the day they arrive in our lives is the day they stop being an orphan. We teach them skills and development so that when they grow up and their school life is over, they will have something useful and be confident in themselves as well as in their talent and ability.

We are also very involved with the community in the area, we help support a day -care center with 60 children, we have a feeding scheme, where we give out food, or supplies. We are starting a day-care center on our property in January, which will be separate to the two current classrooms we already have, we are moving the community sewing workshop, which teaches ladies how to sew and helps them to earn a living. We teach swimming lessons to the kids in the community in the summer months and also have a tennis coach who comes in every Saturday to teach them tennis.

I have the best household ever, it is NEVER quiet, there is always something happening and we really are one BIG CRAZY family!

Are you using your photography in you work/home life?
Other than taking photos for the website or for thank-you letters or for fundraising events we have had for Footprints, there is always something to shoot and I have the best practice models ever. And because I have a studio, the kids are always willing and ready to be photographed and to take photos.

God:

Where do you feel God is taking you?

Well if I knew I wouldn’t need faith then… ha-ha.  I have no idea at the moment, but I don’t try to figure it our either, because I trust Him. I always try to let Him plan my steps, even when I make my own plans. Wherever God takes me and whatever opportunities and doors He opens for me will only lead to victory and the joys of life, because I know He loves me and wants His best for me. The only requirement is that I know His voice, that I be led by it and have peace of knowing that all things work out for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Which I am. Romans 8:28

Do you think you can make a Kingdom impact through your photography?

Definitely, I think if our hearts are right and we do things with the right motives, we can make a Kingdom impact with anything we do; it’s up to us to do so. But, for me personally it’s been awesome because I’ve used my photography as a ministry tool for quite a few clients, it’s our attitude in the small and honest things that makes a difference to people, I don’t want to be ‘just another photographer’, I want to show and exhibit God, in and through myself, my heart, my actions and my photography.

Any message to the photographers out there?

Just stay true to yourself, be honest with people, explore your expression and creativity, never limit yourself or others, always work on improving your skill, and expanding in areas. When I first  started out, I said “I’ll never do weddings, they are too much pressure and I don’t want to be just another wedding photographer.”

Yes, it is a lot of pressure, it takes effort and time but it’s now one of my favorite special events. I also said ‘I don’t think I would enjoy Studio work’ (personal photo-shoots).

Now I have my own studio on our property, and I love it!  A very important message. Don’t always do things just for the money or for the highest price. Sometimes the least paid jobs are the most satisfying and enjoyable. Don’t be greedy. Charge what you would pay for the same thing if you knew how much work goes into the event.

How do you fuse your photography with the calling God has for you?

The two are one and the same, joined at the hip, the heart and the action. God is ‘in’ my camera.

What is your favorite scripture?

Romans 12:2 – Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God.

Like photography, it’s really hard to have a favorite scripture in a book full of life truths.

Any closing words?

For photographers, find your own expression of photography; don’t attempt to do exactly what others do. Although we can always learn from others, we can personalize our own flavor if I can put it that way.  Like I said earlier, TAKE RISKS, afterwards. You’ll be thrilled you did. As much as theory is important and we need to know many things. The best ways I’ve learnt is through experience on the field, out there working. Actually taking the photos, experimenting, playing around, enjoying the game and trying new things.

For life in general? Love God, enjoy Him, make Him your working partner, love your family, don’t allow negative situations to steal from you. Make right with others, even if they are wrong, stay excited and passionate, and love yourself. Oh yes…… develop a thick skin, sometimes, pretend you’re a duck and let the water flow off, it always helps.

Thank you for taking this interest in me, my opinions and my work.

God bless.

Thanks Sylvie

In/deCEPTION by maTT vZ

Or… ‘Ah my brain hurts. And my brain’s brain. And my brain’s brain’s brain’s…’

You’ve woken up before, not knowing where you are, what you are and unsure of which body parts are directly attached to which. I know you have. Everyone has. It feels like you are rising out of a big tub of syrup. You’ve even made noises akin to Swamp Thing as you do.

‘Glaaargle….’

So does Leonardo DiCaprio, when awakes washed up on an endless beach in a tux with a gun tucked in his pants. If his character, Dom Cobb, had awoken with a purposeful look on his face we would be less unsure ourselves, but perhaps he is trying to figure out why his name is as weird as ‘Dom Cobb’. It sounds like someone is calling him a silly millie (that’s corn for all y’all not in SA).

Anyway, I’m getting sidetracked and things haven’t even begun to get interesting. No sooner has Dom groggily awoken and gurgled, is he hauled up by the ubiquitous gun-toting henchmen and dragged into a massive oriental fortress on the cliff to meet with an ancient, ancient-looking Ken Watanabe. He is so old he has not hair, but instead what looks like cobwebs wisping happily off his spotty skull. This is Mr. Saito. Both mumble about knowing each other, and Cobb spins a small metal top on the table.

Now that we are thoroughly confused, the scene of course completely shifts and we are at a grand dinner on the self-same cliff-top fortress, Dom Cobb is there, in a fresh tux, and so is Mr. Saito, looking faaaar more sprightly, 40 years easily knocked off. Ken has been in Hollywood too long and obviously has let the surgeons have a go at him.

Thus the tone, pace and magnetism of Inception is set. Most of you know it is a movie about dreams, and of course is going to invite much conversation around that vs. reality etc. We’ll get to that. The film is an original straight from the throbbingly cerebral mind of director Christopher Nolan (although some really bored people mention an old French film) but can best be described as thick slices of the Ocean’s movies and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind layered into each other and sandwiched between a $160 million budget, popped into the oven on low heat for 9-10 years until a complete melt delight, and served as a gourmet burst of originality amongst the fast-food mayhem of sequels and comic book adaptations.

It is rich, delicious, exhausting and you will struggle to finish it (in your head) in one sitting.

Cobb and his team are thieves of the highest order. They steal ideas. They steal them from within the minds of people. And they steal them from the most powerful people, for the most powerful people. This is called extraction. So whether they succeed or not, very powerful people or going to be upset. Mr. Saito is one such powerful person. They try to steal his idea. They fail. Mr. Saito is upset.

This is quite something, as Cobb’s method of theft is devious and mind-bending, as they draw their victim, or Mark, into a dream he does not know is one, a dream constructed by an Architect, a member of the team that can memorise incredible environmental detail and reconstruct it in the dream. They proceed to play a series of intricate psychological mind games to make there way through the dream to a vault, where said idea is hidden. The Mark knows none of this, but if things slip up and he gets suspicious – you know, when you sometimes realize you actually are dreaming – all the people in the dream, who are all constructs of the Mark’s mind, freak out and attack the team. This can be a whole city of people. Very angry people. All coming for you. It’s fun.

Especially when Mr. Saito, who – as a very powerful person – requires their help, catches Cobb & Co. But he does not wish to steal an idea. He wishes to plant one – inception, not extraction. His Mark is Fischer, played wonderfully low-key by Cillian Murphy, who is the son of a dying corporate energy tyrant.

Now this is nigh impossible, but Cobb has done it before, in a very personal way that greatly affects the plot. To do this will require an entertainingly elaborate plan involving entering a dream… within the dream… within a dream.

There is a lot of setup and explanation of how this all works, happily it does not get too technical but is more conceptual, so not too heavy, and it is all done while we are enrapt by brilliantly realised and detailed sequences of dreams – quite literally in one case as Paris becomes a calzone with Citroen and cobblestone filling. The visual effects feel hidden and integrated, an astounding feat considering the warping of reality you are drawn into. It all has a faintly haunting and humanless quality, whether that is intended or not, I have picked up that atmosphere in Nolan’s other films so perhaps just a trait of his work.

All through the movie, Inception chews on the notion that nothing is as subtly powerful, infectious and inexorable as an idea. The simpler, purer and tiny the seed of it, the deeper it slips into our hearts, the swifter and with more potential it grows, spreads and germinates. It can become the core that fuels our every move. It can become our motivation for life, consumes it, and finally destroy us… or set us free.

The way this movie so vividly reveals this made me realise just how powerful our thinking, and what influences it, can be. In part it terrified me, as I reflected on my life and how ideas, thoughts, whispers and opinions can dictate your path, or confuse it. The parallels with our journey and influences we either exert or are subject to are profound.

Just as Cobb and his crew draw their Mark into a labyrinth weaved of his own personal fears, securities and perceptions to a degree that he accepts their falsely created version of his reality, so the enemy tries desperately to do the same in ours, as he plays out the same game in our heads and hearts. Cobb’s goal was to put an idea deep in the core of Fischer’s psyche, one that alters his view of life and his actions, what he thinks of himself and others.

In short, he stole Fischer’s original identifying thought and replaces it with one that served his own purposes. Sound like someone we know?

‘The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.’ That’s John 10:10a.

We all know it. And we know how he tries in so many different and devious ways to steal our truth, kill our hope and destroy our purpose: That we are free in Christ, that we are kings and children of our Almighty uber-awesome Father. That we are holy, called, powerful living conduits of His will, His love, His message. No-no. He uses every vile and subtle trick to try get us to think less of ourselves, to question the unquestionable and indescribable work God has done for and in us, all of Himself. He tells us we have failed, we are not worthy, that we are not enough. None of which is even relevant – BEACAUSE OF WHAT GOD HAS DONE. Because He has done it all. And offered it to us.

Awesome.

And just like Fischer, and even Cobb and his team, we can get so flipped around and inside out within our own heads and hearts, pulled by perception and emotion, that we struggle to know up from down, truth from fiction, lie from revelation in any area of our lives that we have vulnerabilities.

In the film, Cobb & Co each carry a token, something they use to test whether what they are in is reality. And they had to know, absolutely, that that token was real. Each token is deeply personal and if it is lost, so is that person. In limbo. Forever.

We all have the same token, but it becomes deeply personal to us in many different ways and yet always leads us to the same beautiful, liberating and powerful truth. It’s that kind of awesome. It is the Word. It even comes with a tutor, God Himself, His Holy Spirit, within us. Keep it’s truth with you always, so whenever you become confused, flipped around and inside out within your own head and heart – it provides the directions out of the maze and into the real, real arms of your all-loving, all-conquering Father.

Because the enemy knows ‘as a man thinks, so is he.’ That’s Psalm 23:7, roughly. It’s talking about a miser specifically, but applies to any dude or dudette.

Yep, I said dude or dudette. I’m sooo old-school-cool.

Anyway, if the enemy can change your thinking, he can change you. It is why we are called to renew our minds – and this we do not through force but with a willing, tender heart for God’s Words. Sometimes the journey out of the maze can seem long and as confusing as the maze itself – so don’t lose sight of your guide, or drop your directions. And know, absolutely, that they are real.

Bill Johnson once said, ‘Any area in you life that is without hope is under the influence of a lie.’

For every area in your life that feels hopeless, take out your token, consult your guide, and blow yourself out of the maze of that lie and into the clear, open air of God’s beautiful truth: YOU ARE HIS AND YOU ARE AWESOME.

Have a coolio day.

The Real Deal by Simon Guillebaud

Dear Team,

When I write about our summer outreach campaign each year, I fear it sounds so amazing that some of you can’t believe what happens, that I’m exaggerating things and being evang-elastic about the reporting – but these guys are the real deal, I promise you. We’re gearing up to rock Burundi this summer. The elections have gone relatively peacefully and permission has now been granted to proceed with this amazing outreach.

So, from 28^th August – 6^th September, 600 young firebrands will be sent out into the bush to go to 42 communes and share the gospel strategically and intentionally in unreached areas throughout Burundi. They will, as they did last year, cast out demons, heal the sick, get beaten, get sick, be well received, badly received, plant churches, see many Muslims and witchdoctors converted, whole communities impacted. This is my most exciting time of the year.

So I’m writing for two reasons:

Firstly, please pray. Onesphore (leader of Harvest for Christ) has said year after year that our network of prayers is what has opened up whole communities that might have been fiercely resistant, and that our prayer backing has minimized the very real opposition to our venture. Could you commit to praying over the period of the outreach? And I’ll give you feedback a month later when the astounding results will have been established. (Last year a staggering 26,000 were converted)

Secondly, to fulfill our aims, can you help us financially? The overall budget for this massive outreach effort, transporting that large number of people all over the country, giving them some basic pocket money, hiring vehicles to show the Jesus film, follow-up, etc, is $60,000. We have raised $41,000, so the outstanding need is $19,000. Every little bit helps, every contribution will mean more lives transformed, so do join us!

For contributions in the USA, please click www.razoo.com/story/Great-Lakes-Outreach

For UK and rest of the world, click www.justgiving.com/donation/sponsor?process=1&query=cGFnZT0xNjI5Njg1

Any problems with the links, just contact me and I’ll sort things out.

God bless you so much!

Simon Guillebaud

Great Lakes Outreach

www.greatlakesoutreach.org

www.more-than-conquerors.com

*update*

It’s all happening right now, so keep praying! The 600 young evangelists are half way through the ten-day outreach. I’ve received a few emails from Onesphore, leader of Harvest for Christ, with some news to encourage us. There’s obviously so much going on. God bless you loads, enjoy the one below, which he sent to me yesterday:

Hello brother Simon,

All the teams are doing well on the field. Only yesterday, policemen tried to disturb some of our evangelists in Kayanza but they kept on preaching with great fruit. In Bukemba, a woman who was getting ready to have a covenant with witchcrafts gave her life to Christ. She had bought a white dress and a white lamb for the ceremony. When evangelists shared the Good News with her, her mind changed. She came immediately to church with the white dress to celebrate the love of God.

Minani Pacifique is a 55-years-old man of Kinyinya , in Ruyigi province . He was deaf and could hear nothing. Evangelists visited his village and prayed for him. He immediately got healed in the name of Jesus. Many people of the village came to see the miracle and believed in Christ.

Tell all those who are praying that God is working powerfully.

I also thank God for the deputy president who was chosen yesterday by the Parliament. His name is Therence. He is a born-again Christian who is gifted with a ministry of healing and deliverance. He has a strong home cell at his house and I have preached many times there. I am sure that this is a unique time for the church in Burundi to be free to achieve its mission. Essentially, Protestant churches get an opportunity to have roots and to be established. As far as I am concerned, I would to be much creative during these five years so that HFC may be strong and influential for God’s glory. I am happy to go with you in this process, which will absolutely transform the church of Burundi.

As Caleb said, I still have the same passion and heart that I had ten years ago. My heart is still burning to see the power coming upon this country and bring transformation. I am ready to pay any price that this can require. I have put my life and ambitions on the altar, I am ready to be whatever God wants me to be.

Thank you for your prayers and support which are making difference in my life.

With love,

Onesphore

P.S. Can I also ask for your prayers for healing please? I’ve been sick for a month, and I can’t shrug off this frustrating fatigue. Blood test results show nothing, and we are on family holiday in France right now, but with our impending move to South Carolina in two weeks, I really need to get healthy and strong soon. God bless you all, SG

Disappointment – The Christian Killer by Anthony Ricco

I had a question this morning that was bothering me: why do people who have seen so much of God’s power and majesty fall back into the World?

I was thinking of Israel – they saw God’s mighty hand so many times, when Moses was up on Mt Sinai they could even see Him on there, but when Moses was up there for a while they built the 2 golden calves and started to worship them.

Or Judas. He walked with Jesus for 3 years. He saw Jesus heal the blind and the deaf, he saw the dead raised and nature obey Jesus’ words – he probably performed miracles himself. What would make him turn his back and betray his Rabbi?

And then God hit me with it – you ready – disappointment and a refusal to be discipled. That’s the cause.

You see the Israelites thought they would go out of Egypt and straight away into a conquered promised land and all would be great, but they couldn’t. If that had happened they would have very soon forgotten about God and started worshipping Egypt’s Gods. They had to go through a Discipleship phase. This is never a fun phase, it usually breaks us and brings us to surrender to God, a place that is best for us but hard to get to because we have to constantly put our flesh under.

So this phase led to the Israelite’s disappointment, because a lot of them didn’t count the cost of following God. We think we say a prayer giving our lives to God and all the riches and blessings in the world drop into our laps. We forget immediately the words we prayed; “We give our lives…” We don’t own them anymore – it now becomes God’s life to do as He wills with it, sometimes that entails persecution, loss of property etc. Don’t be discouraged and turn back to what you used to follow – this is part of discipleship – it is opening doors for God to fulfil His plan in our lives.

See, Judas betrayed Jesus because in his mind he had an idea of what the Messiah would be and what the Messiah would do. He thought the Messiah had come to destroy the Roman oppression and make Israel rulers over the world. But this Jesus was telling him that he was to be a servant to all mankind. He became disappointed because the Messiah was not the Messiah he had pictured in his mind. He betrayed Jesus because He wasn’t whom Judas had dreamed about.

Be careful how much value we put on the dreams in our lives and how we picture what God will do through us. Be willing to surrender your dreams to God and to let God have His way to further the kingdom, or we could end up betraying God because He isn’t doing what we pictured Him doing.

So what I’m saying is don’t put God into our plans, live in His. Don’t be disappointed if He doesn’t do what you pictured Him doing.

Remember who God is and who is the teeny tiny little creation He made. Remember next time you get disappointed, just who God is and remember how easily Judas and the Israelites turned their backs. Remember it can happen to any of us. Guard you hearts, don’t let disappointment in and be open to discipleship. Don’t make your plans and dreams God’s – rather make His plans and dreams yours.