In Celebration of My Thirty-Fifth re-Birthday!

I was brought up in a household where, if anyone knocked on the door and talked about religion, I was to say ‘We’re C of E’ and close the door. Can’t remember ever going to church, apart from weddings and, for a short time, Sunday School (where they gave us flowers to take home for our mums one week, but didn't the next… so I didn't go again). And I can’t quite remember when I found out what C of E meant! To me, though, church was boring. Even assemblies at school had no interest for me.

My teenage years were full of the Occult and Superstition (I even made a few up of my own!). I saw lots that both interested and scared me in equal measure – especially at séances and with Ouija Boards. I'll always remember laughing at the people who tried to convince me I shouldn't go to see The Exorcist….. I also remember the nightmares I had afterwards. By the time I had started work, though, I had decided to give all that up and just take life as it comes.

However, in my early 20s I did read the Bible from cover to cover – rejecting it as irrelevant, at the same time seeing some the things Jesus said as a good model to live by. I still saw Christians as boring and often hypocritical though.

Having broken up with a long term girlfriend, I started taking Sub-Aqua, Piano and Guitar Lessons. At Guitar I met my future wife and the other lessons fell by the wayside. She was a Christian, but I was confident I could get her away from that nonsense. I obviously met a lot of her church going friends. Somehow they didn't seem the same as most Christians I’d met… they seemed to actually practice what they believed.

I had had a beard since I was old enough to grow one, but at that time I was suffering from bad acne under the hairs. Very sore and sometimes very painful. Pat suggested I go with her to a ‘Healing’ meeting the Church were holding. I’d been to some of their big events before and, strangely, thought they were the closest thing to what I had imagined a meeting of ‘believers’ should be from my reading of the bible. So I thought Why Not….

I saw things there that I couldn't explain, just as I had when I had ‘dabbled’ in the occult, but whereas the dark things scared me, this didn't. In fact it made me happy to see people with all kinds of sickness testify to being healed after prayer.

After the meeting I was asked if I wanted prayer for my problem… I said No (but secretly hoped that something had happened). I actually told someone that, if this was what God did then I wanted to know more. In another part of the room, Pat was telling her friends that she was going to break up with me, as she saw that I was breaking her relationship with God.

We had been going out for about a year. An old friend of mine and even my Mum had ‘joined the Church’ (as I called it) during this time, but I was still not convinced.

On Sunday 2nd March 1980, I decided to go with her to the Church, which I had always avoided before. They had a couple of people being baptised that morning and, believe it or not, they had been involved in the occult! The wife had been possessed during a séance and when the husband called for help the only person around was one of the Church Pastors! What happened next led to them to repent, and here they were being baptised as Christians.

At this same meeting they had visiting speakers. They were not English and I didn’t understand much of what they said, but then one of them said quite clearly, ‘If you want to receive a blessing from Jesus, hold your hand up now’.  I sat on mine, as I had no intention of doing anything rash…. He then said ‘Come forward now’ and before I knew what I was doing I was standing at the back of a crowd thinking ‘God. If you are real, prove it to me now’.

At that very moment, the guy reached over the crowd and put his hand upon my head and a ‘wave’ of light filled my body from my head, right the way down to my feet…. Then it came up again and I burst into tears. I KNEW that Jesus was alive and had changed me. All I could do after that was go around hugging people and saying Thank You.

A few people pointed out that the water was still there and that I should be baptised. Although it immediately came to me that that’s what the Bible said should happen, I said No… Then changed my mind and a friend was despatched to my flat to get a change of clothes, while I walked into the water and (figuratively) shared in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, with all my past sin being washed away and buried. I was Born Again!

Since then I have tried to live the life I know is the best for me and my family. Not always succeeding, but knowing I have a loving God (and Christian Family) who accepts me for who and where I am, and will forgive and support me when I make mistakes.

Having written this, it doesn't seem as powerful, or as convincing as I hoped it would be, but it is my experience. If anyone has read this to this point and would like to know more; if it’s caused even a little bit of interest, then feel free to contact me. I’d love to talk more.

Christmas 2013

I got almost everything I asked for -
Even plus some,
But then there is the money
I had from my mum,
So I can buy in the sales
What Santa has missed...
And have everything I wanted,
Well, that I put on my list.
But presents alone
Are just part of the hype,
The best thing of all was a visit from my son
And seeing my daughters on Skype!
But
When Christmas is all over
There's one thing that stays,
That's the great Gift of Jesus,
With me now and always.
 

'In Christ Alone', written by Andrew Shawn Craig & Donald A. Koch (Dance)

This was recorded during Royston Town Mayor's (Rob Inwood) Civic Reception at Royston Parish Church.

The Dancers are my daughter, Kathryn, in black and her friend Ruth in white. (I only had a small input to this) See also How Beautiful.

Other members of Trinity Life Church (and two guests) are in the band.

Please also visit the Open House Project, one of the Mayor's designated charities, site.

Did Mary ride a donkey? (Song)

Did Mary ride a donkey?
No one really knows.
Was she always dressed in blue?
No one really knows.
Did she give birth in winter?
No one really knows,
But the baby born that day
Everyone knows!

Was the star a comet?
No one really knows.
Did the shepherds bring a lamb?
No one really knows.
What animals shared the stable?
No one really knows,
But the baby born that day
Everyone knows!

The Christmas story tells us lots
Of things we like to hear.
Peace on Earth,
Goodwill to Men.
Presents – Family – Cheer!
But the only thing we know for sure
From the stories that they tell,
Is ‘Christ was born in Bethlehem,
Our Lord Emmanuel!’

How many wise men were there?
No one really knows.
Were they ever Kings at all?
No one really knows.
Did they meet the shepherds?
No one really knows.
But the baby born that day,
Everyone knows!

Yes, the child they saw that day,
Everyone knows!

And the man we worship today
Everyone knows!

The One who set me free (Song)

Uh, oh, here comes the fear
Flooding in and keeping me up at nights.
Uh, oh, here comes the fear
Where now can I turn....?

Uh, oh, here comes the pain
Pressing down and overwhelming me.
Uh, oh, here comes the pain
Where is my release....?

Oh, oh, oh,
Oh, I will fall
Down on my knees
And seek the One
Who set me free
And I will stand
Upon His word
For I have heard
The One who set me free

Uh, oh, here comes the shame
Welling up and causing the tears to fall
Uh, oh, here comes the shame
Who will comfort me....?

Uh, oh, here comes the doubt
It's so hard to hold on to anything.
Uh, oh, here comes the doubt
Who now can I trust....?

Oh, oh, oh,
Oh, I will lift
My eyes to Him
For I can win
With the one who set me free
And I will Al
-ways praise His name
Always the same
The one who set me free

He's the One who set me free

Jesus You have set me free...

On the edge of Glory (Song)

This is the time
This is the place
To meet with our God
Face to face.
No need to hold back
No need to move on
Let's praise the Lord with a new song

Here we are on the edge of Glory
Here we are on the edge of Glory
Here we are on the edge of Glory
Jump right in to all His Glory
Here we are on the edge of Glory
Here we are on the edge of Glory
Here we are on the edge of Glory
Let's move in to all His Glory

This is the time....

How Beautiful, by Twila Paris (Dance)

I had the idea for this, but my eldest daughter created her own dance part and my youngest (on the left) added some ideas of her own, whilst her friend (on the right) gamely joined in with all that we asked.
It's taken some time to get it on You Tube, but hope you enjoy!

Thanks to Lee Goater for filming it - and for the video slip which gave us the unusual start! We thought it fitted so well we left it in.

They took the body from the Cross

They took the body from the Cross
Did Joseph's men....
They wrapped Him in a pure white sheet
And then....
They laid Him in a virgin tomb -
An echo of His Mother's womb....

But death could not hold Him
And on the third day
He rose as He said He would
And the stone rolled away!

After that cry (Poem)

After that Cry
("It is finished!")
There was silence
And the Cold grey Clouds
Gathered;
Congealed;
Darkened.
Then lightening flashed,
Catching the Crowd
In a frozen moment,
Until thunder Cracked,
Causing Chaos;
Cries of fear;
Terror!
Then the Temple Curtain tore
From Ceiling to floor
And people gazed in awe
At a man
Hanging on a Cross

Everything’s ready for Christmas… (Poem)

I’ve got all my Christmas presents -
Wrapped them all as well.
My Christmas cards are all posted,
As far as I can tell.
The tree is in the corner
With it’s lights, star, and glittery balls
And there’s Holly and some Mistletoe
Hanging in the halls.
The paper chains are making
The ceiling look nice
And the windows all are frosted
With that artificial ice.
There’s a wreath upon the door and
My stocking's on the fireplace.
I’ve even hung up an extra one -
Well, you know... just in case....!
I’ve placed a picture of me and Santa,
Carefully on the shelf,
To remind me of my visit
Where I chatted up his elf!
The turkey’s now defrosting:
Mince pies are on the table.
I’ll get the nuts and chocolate things
Tomorrow, if I’m able.
There’s fruit there in abundance:
A Yule log at the ready,
And the drink that isn’t in the fridge
Is tucked behind the telly.
My mother sent the Christmas pud
She said there’s 5ps in it.
She didn’t say a thing last time
And I very nearly croaked it!
The crackers this year were given to me
Which I think was very thoughtful
But what’s the betting the jokes inside
Are still as blooming awful!
Oh - I’ve marked the TV listings so
I’ll miss none of my favourite shows.
Though how I managed through 50 channels,
Heaven only knows.
Well, that’s the lot, I think I’ve got
Everything upon my list.
But I can't shrug off the feeling that,
There’s something that I’ve missed……
It seems to me, oh I don’t know,
There’s got to be something more…
Oh, pardon me: Just a mo’
There’s someone at the door.

"God rest you merry gentleman,
Let nothing you dismay.
Remember Christ your Saviour,
Was born upon this day"

Sorry, Folks. I gave at the office.

Carol Singers!

Now where was I?

Something missing...

Oh, never mind,
I’m sure I’ll work it out….

Merry Christmas!

When Santa got stuck up the chimney…. (Sketch)

When Santa got stuck up the chimney....
He began to appeal to the children passing by to help him out. But one child offered him more than he bargained for…

Cast: Santa - Fear - Ignorance - Unbelief - Skepticism - Greed - Child

Setting: A chimney on stage left (high up if possible). Santa tries to get out and…

Santa: Oh no! Not again…. One too many mince pies I guess. Good job I don’t live in the North of England, though!

(‘Children’ enter stage right)

Santa: Hey you lot. Help me out of here will you?

Fear: Not likely! Look at him. He looks like a dirty old man (Santa: It’s the Soot!) If we help him, he’ll probably offer us some sweets and a ride in his sleigh!

Santa: (Sneezes)

Ignorance: Yeah, and listen to him sneeze. He’s probably got bird flue from one of his Reindeer. The one with the red nose I shouldn’t wonder…

(‘Children’ freeze here and Santa talks to the audience)

Santa: So much fear and ignorance - judging people at first glance and - well I ask you, bird flue from a reindeer! Why don’t people find out a bit more about things before jumping to conclusions?
(Back to the Kids) Look I’m Santa Clause. Don’t you believe in me any more.

Unbelief: No! There are so many of you around. You can’t be in all shopping centers at once. You can’t all be the real thing.

Skeptic: Flying reindeers pulling sleigh’s full of presents around the world in one night… Impossible!

Santa: (To audience) People nowadays don’t seem to know the real thing when it’s staring them in the face! And there are some things you can’t understand until you believe.
(To children) Look: You know you girls and boys won’t get any toys unless you let me out?

Skeptic: Am I bovvered?

Greed: Don’t be silly. My mum buy’s me everything I want at Christmas! Even if we are in debt up to out eyebrows. And if my dad comes round with the maintenance money, then he brings me stuff too. Just to prove they love me.

Santa: (to audience) Children expect everything on a plate these days - and everything’s so commercialised. Mind you … I’ve missed my productivity bonus now, through not getting all the presents delivered by midnight!

Greed: Hey. Come on you lot our ASBOs say we’ve got to get back before midnight.

Skeptic: (As they exit stage left) But the pubs haven’t closed yet!

Unbelief: Shame about global warming… (Others ‘Eh?’ ‘What?’ Etc.,) We could have thrown snowballs at him!

(‘Children’ laughing as exit stage left - Child enters quietly stage right)

Santa: Sometimes I wish Christmas could be as it was…
(Shouts) Can no one help me out of here?

Child: Do you really want to be free?

Santa: Huh? Where did you come from? Why didn’t you go with the rest?

Child: They don’t want to know me.
I’d like to help you, but do you believe in me?

Santa: What do you mean? Who are you?

Child: Let me give you a clue: People will be celebrating my birthday tomorrow.

Santa: Tomorrow…. 25th… Christmas… No…. He can’t be…
You’re probably just a do-gooder who’s going to get me out then steal my sack! Or get me into some strange cult or something.

Child: So much fear and ignorance - judging people at first glance.... Why don’t people

Santa: What? Oh, yeah, ok. But why should I believe in you? There are so many religions around. They can’t all have the truth!

Child: People nowadays don’t see the truth when it’s -

Santa: Staring them in the face, I know… But look; how can I believe in all that virgin birth stuff? And as for rising from the dead….

Child: Sometimes you can only understand something once you believe.

Santa: Ok. Ok. If you ’re who you say you are - prove it. Get me out of this mess.

Child: First you have to put everything in that sack… and let it go.

Santa: My sack. But that’s impossible. I can’t do that. I’d loose everything if I did.

Child: But you’d gain a new start.
(Exits quietly stage right as Santa rants)

Santa: Oh, this is ridiculous. Get me out of here now! I …. Where’s he gone? Don‘t leave me now… (thinks)
(To audience) You know… I keep hearing 'People expect to be given everything on a plate…’. What do you think I should do? Drop all of this stuff and believe in him, or stay stuck where I am?

What would you do?

END.
Christmas Guest Service 2005

At the name of Jesus (Song)

I worship before you...
I praise and adore you....
Pour out your Spirit upon this place.

I worship before you...
I praise and adore you....
Pour out your Spirit upon this place.

That every ear will hear You
And every heart will love You
And every knee shall do
What mine do now -

At the name of Jesus
At the name of Jesus
At the name of Jesus,
Every knee shall bow!

I fall to my knees now....
I'm begging you please now....
Pour out your Spirit upon this place.

I fall to my knees now....
I'm begging you please now....
Pour out your Spirit upon this place.

That every eye will see You
And every tongue confess You
And every knee shall do
What mine do now -

At the name of Jesus
At the name of Jesus
At the name of Jesus,
Every knee shall bow!

Here's to You Lord (Song)

Here's to You, Lord.
A thousand, thousand garlands for Your head, Lord,
For you've risen Jesus from the dead
And set me free.

Here's to You Lord.
Many, many times I turned away, Lord,
Then I opened up my life to You
And in You came.

All my years of empty searching
Finally found an end in You;
Finally found a reason for my life,
You set me free -
All I know is I just want to
Share Your love with everyone,
Finally found a reason for my life
You set me free.
Set me free
You set me free.

Here's to You Lord....

Nativity Rhymes

(The Nativity Story told in Nursery Rhymes.)

Come with us now to Bethlehem
To the tune of 'Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross'

Come with us now to Bethlehem, You'll
See a young lady ride on a grey mule.
With Joseph beside her and
Dust on her clothes
The Child that she's carrying
Everyone knows


There was an Inn-keeper in Bethlehem..
To the tune(?) of 'There was an Old Woman who lived in a shoe'

There was an Inn-keeper in Bethlehem, who
Had so many visitors he didn't know what to do
When Mary and Joseph came knocking he said
"I've only a stable and some straw for your bed"


While Shepherds were watching
To the tune of 'Girls and Boys Come out to Play'

While Shepherds were watching their flocks, they say,
An Angel appeared as bright as day.
"Leave your fire and your flocks", he said,
"Your Saviour is born in a cattle shed".

"You bring a lamb
And I'll pick a Flower,
And we'll go and visit in half an hour".


Three Wise Men
To the tune of 'Three Blind Mice'

Three wise men
Three wise men
See now they come
See now they come

One with Frankincense
One with Myrrh
One with Gold for the King of the earth
The Gifts they are bringing are for a Saviour
They're three wise men!


Twinkle, twinkle
To the tune of 'Twinkle, twinkle, Little Star'

Twinkle, twinkle, Holy Star
Wise Men saw you from afar
Would not know which way to go
If you hadn't sparkled so.
Twinkle, twinkle Holy Star
Wise men saw you from afar.


Hush-a-by Jesus
To the tune of 'Hush-a-by Baby'

Hush-a-by Jesus
There in your cot
When you grow older
You'll pick up a cross
Your body will break
And old Satan will fall
And the way will be open
To New Life for all.


Jump up and Worship
To the tune of 'Pop goes the weasel'.

Half a pound of frankincense
Gold and myrrh they brought Him
Wise men still bring gifts of Praise!
(clap, clap,)
Jump up and worship.

Up and down the aisles we go
Hey diddle diddle
That's the way our story goes!
(clap, clap)
Jump up and Worship.

Every day when I wake up
I know that Jesus loves me
What is more, well - I love Him!
(clap, clap)
Jump up and Worship.

Up and down...

I hope these songs have brought to you
At least a little giggle
But more than that I hope that you'll
(clap, clap)
Jump up and worship

Up and down....

That's the way our story goes
(clap, clap, clap, clap)
Jump up and worship!

Alternative Verse to .... (Song)

'I could sing of your love forever (Over the Mountains and the Sea)' by Delirious?.

Every time I'm feeling down
Your love will always be around.
You lift me up out of the pit
And set my feet on solid ground.

I never want to be the way
I was before that fateful day
You came into my life and washed my sins away!

I could sing of your love forever....

Shouts of Glory, Glory! (Song)

(A Marching Song)

He is a great and mighty warrior
Building an army fit for war
And as he joins into the battle
Banners of Victory go before
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!

He's riding on a pure white stallion,
A two edged sword is in His hand.
His Word is true and will not faulter,
The time has come to take the land
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!

His voice is like the sound of thunder
Calling to all those who have ears,
"Be Bold, Be Strong, Be Pure, Be Holy"
For soon Lord Jesus will appear
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!
With shouts of Glory, Glory!

What is Man? (Sketch)

(Written a long time ago, but re-written to perform at the Royston May Fayre. Thanks to Colin Boyd for some ad-libs which I've included here!)

Mike: Hello everyone. We’re here from Trinity Life Church to tell you something very important; something that has changed the lives of millions of people all over the world and … and … and (collapses into a limp bow)

Tim: (curiously moving toward Mike) Mike… Mike! Are you okay? (looks him over) Hmm… This is interesting… I told him he shouldn’t have missed lunch! You know I’ve been taught that humans evolved from Apes. I’ve got a banana here, so perhaps that will help. (pushes the banana in Mike’s Face.) Mike? Oh dear… That didn’t work! Um: Never mind (walks off)

Colin: (coming quickly on as Tim departs) Hey! You can’t leave him like that. (looks Mike over) Mike? This is strange. You know, I’ve been told that man is nothing more than a machine. Perhaps he needs some fuel!. (picks up a 'petrol' can and looks for a place to pour it. considers from behind, then changes his mind: pulls at his ear) What’s this ear? (pours 'petrol' in Mike’s ear.) Now… Where do you start the motor? (considers) Maybe a kick start! (goes to kick Mike, but changes his mind) Nope. I don’t know. Oh well… (walks off)

Lorraine: (walks up to Mike as Colin leaves) What’s this? Mike? Are you okay? (checks forehead and pulse) Nothing obviously wrong with him. Well, I’ve no idea what the matter is, but I believe that Human’s were created in the image of God - so I’ll ask Him! (lays hand on Mike’s back and prays).

Mike: (recovers slowly with a shout) HHHAAALLLEELUJAH!!!!! Thanks Lorraine. That’s exactly what I needed! Now where was I. Oh yes: We have something very important to tell you:
You are not an animal:
You are not a machine:
You were created in the image of a living God that loves you and if you would like to know more about Him, we’d love to talk to you! (as an aside as they both leave) Can anyone else smell petrol? And why do I have the taste of banana on my lips? How strange….


End

The sun in your eyes (Song and Sketch)

The sun in your eyes is yellow,
Until you close them, then it's green -
And the pictures in your mind are sometimes clearer,
Than reality ever seems.

And the pictures in your mind they go around, around
And the pictures in your mind they go around. (Twice)


There once came a Man who was walking
Among the people that He knew,
But their eyes were closed and the things He said
Were to open just a few.

But the words that He said are still around, around
But the words that He said are still around. (Twice)


And while their eyes were still closed
They nailed Him to a tree,
But He rose again on the third day
And he set all captives free!

And the blood that He shed is still around, around
And the blood that He shed is still around. (Twice)


(The music continues: Four people walk on and form a line. They crouch down and close their eyes. 'Jesus' walks up behind them and touches two on the shoulder, at the same time. They put their hand up to his, open their eyes, rise together and all lift their hands up. They all three walk backwards a few paces and stop. They lower their arms and let go of each others hands, then 'Jesus' walks forwards again and touches the other two on the shoulder. These two reach for his hand, rise, do not open their eyes but hold his arms out and act as though hammering nails into his palms. They then return to the crouching position whilst 'Jesus' hangs there, arms outstretched. The back two then come forward and, putting their heads under his arms, take him 'down' and drag him back to their former position. Turning inwards so that their backs are to the audience, they lower 'Jesus' to the ground, where he crouches behind them. The singer then continues)


And the morel of this story
Is quite clear - If you would believe,
Just open your eyes and see Jesus Christ
And the Truth will set you free!


(The music continues as the two actors at the back turn outward again and Jesus stands at the same time. He walks between them to the front two and touches their shoulder a second time. This time they open their eyes, and turn, but then cover their eyes with their other arms and turn their head away. Jesus takes their free hand and pulls them up. As they rise they turn to look at him and then slowly bow to one knee and also bow their heads. As they are doing this 'Jesus' and the other two at the back, lift their hands up at the same time. they hold this position until the music ends. Five count. Front two rise, as back two come forward to make a line. All bow to the front, then file off together.)

When I feel (Song)

When I feel the warmth of your arms around me,
When I feel the touch of your hand,
When I hear your voice saying how you love me,
Then I know that you understand,

And I can feel the way you feel about me;
Feel how much you care;
Feel the way you feel about me,
And I know you'll always be there;
And I know you'll always be there.

Oh Lord when things go wrong,
Let me hear your voice.
Oh Lord when things go wrong,
Let me hear the sound of your voice;
Let me hear the sound of your voice...

When you return (Song)

When you return
I want to be
There by your side
With you looking at me
Saying, "Well done My child,
I knew you could,
You won the race like I knew you would!"

And when the days grow shorter
And the darkness closes in,
Help me to see your face and
Together we can win!

WE CAN WIN! FOR -
When you return...

And when the tears are falling
And the pain's too hard to bear,
Help me to feel your touch and
To know your're always there.

ALWAYS THERE! FOR -
When you return....

Love 'em like Jesus does (Song)

0. with Actions

1. If you see a
Bully in the Playground
Do you think - "Ooops!
It's time to turn around."?

2. Or do you see someone
Whose father's probably gone:
Who's looking for a Friend
To bring his anger to an end.....?

1. Won't you..

3. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
4. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
5. Love 'em like Jesus does.
6. Just let your Light Shine!


1. If you see a
Beggar on the Street
Do you cross the road and
Walk the other side of it?

2. Or do you see that they
Have only lost their Way
And if you share some Love
They might just climb back up....

1. Won't you..

3. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
4. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
5. Love 'em like Jesus does.
6. Just let your Light Shine!


1. If you see the
‘Nutter’ when the bus comes
Do you think
"I think I'll take another one."?

2. Or do you see someone
That the enemy's sitting on
And if you sit beside
You may just change their Life....?

1. Won't you..

3. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
4. Love 'em like Jesus does.
1. Won't you
5. Love 'em like Jesus does.
6. Just let your Light Shine!

7. Let your Light Shine!
3. Love 'em like Jesus does.
7. Let your Light Shine!
4. Love 'em like Jesus does.
7. Let your Light Shine!
5. Love 'em like Jesus does.
6. Just let your Light Shine!

Actions
1. Like an old fashioned 'allo-‘allo-'allo policeman. Moving up and down by bending knees with feet together.
2. No Action.
3. Hop from one foot to the other pointing toes out in front with a straight leg.
4. 'Spotty dog' walk on the spot. Move straight arms and legs in opposite directions
leaning forward - without moving forward.
5. Lift arms above your head and turn a full circle.
6. On 'let your', hit knees with hands: On 'light' hit chest with hands: on Shine hold hands high in the air.
7. As 6, only this is while others are doing 3, 4, and 5!

God of all creation (Song)

(Well, more of a Hymn actually...)

God of all creation
Mighty risen Lord
Conqueror of temptation
The everlasting Word
You alone are worthy
To receive all praise
Lead my by Your mercy
Through the darkening days.

Help me be Your witness
Everywhere I am
Teaching of forgiveness
Through Your Holy Lamb
And with every victory
And when the day is through
I will give the glory
Give it back to You.

How can I share the love of the Lord (Song)

(The first song I wrote - in full - as a Christian: Modified)

How can I share the love of the Lord?
How can I sing His praise?
How can I share the love of the Lord, today?
How can I share the things that He's done,
The joy He's given me?
How can I share the triumph of Calvary?

For He is worthy
To be praised
For He is Holy
In every way
And I will Serve Him
Every day of my life.

I will listen for His voice
And He will show the way,
He'll give me all of the joy that I need each day.
I'll let the Spirit flow through my life
And He will quicken me
To be a light for all of the world to see.

For in His glory
I'll remain
When I see Jesus
Come back again
Then I will serve Him
Every day of my life.

I love my mum (Poem)

Mother's day 2006

I love my mum; of course I do,
Well, what’s there not to like?
She love’s me lot’s and buys me things
Fist toys, then computer games… then a car
And, last year, an exercise bike!
(I really must get around to using that sometime…)
But since dad died she’s come to believe
In something I find kind of silly;
A man that was beaten, then killed on a cross,
Who came back to life willy-nilly!
Y’know the cave that they put him in, they say,
Was covered with a blooming great boulder?
Then it was sealed and surrounded by
A group of a dozen soldiers!
But somehow this stone was ‘rolled away’
And there was no sign of the body.
About 100 of his friends then saw him alive!
Now, I ask you… who could believe that story?
I mean, Houdini was good but even he
Couldn’t do something like that.
Just ask his friends who met after he died,
Hoping for a chat!
My mum says that "God had planned it all
Right from the very beginning.
Someone had to die for all our sins
And Jesus said ‘I am willing’…
And because of that we can all have hope
Of eternal resurrection,
Providing we repent and believe in Him -
That’s all that’s needed at the final inspection".
It’s crazy I know, but even so,
There’s something about my mum
That makes me really want to believe –
Even if it does sound dumb.
There’s definitely something different
That I can’t put my finger on,
But ever since she’s believed in this stuff
She’s changed; she’s somehow… strong.
She also has a confidence, I’ve never seen before
And a peace that passes all understanding,
That I’d like to have, that’s for sure.
Not that she is perfect - oh no; no way!
She has her moments, there’s no denying,
But when I think of how she used to be
It almost sets me off crying…
So maybe next time that I go round
I’ll let her talk more and not argue.
Not to say that we haven’t tried that before,
But this time, perhaps, I will listen.. too.
One thing’s for certain, I love her - I do,
And would do nothing to hurt my mother.
So I’ll take it slow and some day, who knows,
I’ll know this Jesus as my Brother!

Now and Then… (Sketch)

(Mother’s Day 2006)

In the form of a Radio play
(same cast, baby cry and heartbeat, for all parts)

Announcer: "The first part of the 21st Century"
(during sounds of a baby crying, with road-drill, traffic, planes etc., cast file on in order from opposite side from the announcer, carrying chairs with their dressing-gowns over. they line up behind the microphones, put down the chairs and stand in front of them facing the audience. when ready - ) "And before you know it…."

Boy: (steps forward) "Hey Mum. I’m off to school now. I’ll probably go round to Tom’s house after - but I’ll be back for tea." (steps back - rest of cast do the same in turn to deliver their lines)

Youth: "Mum. Can I borrow Dad’s car? I’m just going to help Amy move in to her new flat. Keep some tea for me. I don’t mind warming it up."

Young Man: "I’m out with my army mates, Mum. Don’t worry about lunch, We’ll probably arrange a fish and chips supper"

Man: "Mum. I’ve got my posting . I’m going to [insert current unrest here]. It’s my last meal at the barracks tonight. I’ll be back when the job’s done" (steps back and ALL of the cast turn their backs on the audience.)

(sounds of a heartbeat with gun fire, hellicopters, bombs etc. when finished ALL of cast turn back to face the audience.)

Man: (steps forward) "Home again, Mum - but just for a while. Off for more training. I’ve also got the wedding to sort out. Jordan’s going to look in on you from time to time as you may not hear from me for a while, but when I come back next time it’ll be for good!" (steps back)

(pause)

Announcer: "Flash back, to the first part of the 1st Century" (cast look at each other. Announcer repeats and emphasises) "The first part of the FIRST century"
(cast put on dressing-gowns as sounds of a baby crying with sheep & lambs bleating, cattle lowing, dog barking and donkey braying etc. when finished) "And before you know it…"

Boy: (steps forward) "Shalom Mother. I’m off to the temple now. I’ll probably talk to the elders after - but I’ll be back for tea." (steps back - rest of cast do the same to deliver their lines)

Youth: "Mother. Can I borrow Father’s tool kit? I’m just going to help Miriam with that cabinet door that keeps breaking. Keep some tea for me. I don’t mind it hot or cold, as long as it’s not luke-warm."

Young Man: "I’m out with my Disciples, Mother. Don’t worry about lunch. I’ve arranged a fish and bread supper"

Man: "Mother. I have to fulfil my destiny. I’m going to die on the Cross. It’s my last Pass-over meal tonight. I will be back when my work has finished" (steps back and ALL of the cast turn their backs on the audience.)

(sounds of a heartbeat, the hammering of nails. heartbeat stops. sound of a thunderclap, then a wind and a woman crying. when finished, only the Man turns and faces the audience)

Man: (steps forward) "The tomb is empty, Mother - but I am only here for a short while. I am returning to my father’s house to prepare for my bride. I have asked John to take care of you as you may not hear from me for a while, but when I come back next time, it will be to gather all of those who have believed in me and take them to my Kingdom, forever!" (steps back. turns his back.)

(pause. all cast pick up chairs and file off the way they came on.)

Faith (Song)

It was David’s Faith that saved the day
And made Goliath fall,
And Faith that kept old Joshua walking
Round and round those walls,
And Faith that took Daniel
Through the Lions Den,
For they had Faith in God above
And not in the things of Men -

Faith!
Do you have Faith?
Do you have Faith in the one who loves you?
Faith!
Do you have Faith?
Do you have Faith in the Lord?

By Faith did Noah build a boat
Before the rains began,
And Faith turned poor old Gideon into the bravest man!
By Faith did Moses lead the people
Through the parting Sea,
And that same Faith that they all had
Is there for you and me -

Faith!
(etc.)

Faith told Joseph he would someday
Be the number one.
In Faith would Abraham have offered up his only son.
Meshak, Shadrak, Abednigo had Faith to face the fire.
If they had Faith to do those things,
Then why can’t you or I? -

Faith!
(etc.)

Now even if your Faith is
As small as a mustard seed,
You can tell a mountain
To fall into the sea!
But if you’ve listened closely,
To all that has been said,
You’ll see -
Faith alone is not enough
No, it may as well be dead!

Faith
(etc. x2)

In the Lord, JESUS!

This I know (Song)

I may not always get things right
And there are times when I don’t try
But I know
That if I turn again to You,
Your love is faithful and so true
And I know

That I could fly
Like an eagle in the sky
Knowing You are by my side
And I know
That if I fall
Then the everlasting arms
Will protect me from all harm
I know.
This I know.

Sometimes the care of the day
Seems to push You far away
But I know
That there are times when You’re so close
And loving You just means the most…
And I know

That I could fly
Like an eagle in the sky
Knowing You are by my side
And I know
That if I fall
Then the everlasting arms
Will protect me from all harm
I know.
This I know.

And there are times when I am still….

Goldilocks and the Three In One (Story)

Once there was a girl who lived on the edge of a deep, deep, Love. She had beautiful golden hair, but her feet were dirty from walking in the mud and her hands were dirty from the job that she had, so her face was always dirty too.

One day she decided to take a walk in the deep, deep, Love, even though her mother and all her friends had told her "not to bother;" or there was "no point," and even tried to convince her that the deep, deep, Love "didn’t really exist"!

She hadn’t gone very far, when she came upon a House with many Rooms. A little frightened, she entered through the Open Door and looked around.

The first thing she saw was a table with Bread and Wine on it. Feeling Hungry and realizing just how Thirsty she had become, she broke off some of the Bread and ate it. She then drank some of the Wine and was surprised to find that, no matter how much she drank, the glass was always full!

Goldilocks walked a bit further and found a table full of Fruit. Some of the Fruit was very exotic and she had never seen it before. Some she recognized but had never tried, so decided to sample some of these and then move on.

Next she came to a table laden with every kind of food and drink she could possibly imagine. She rushed up to a big chair that was at the head of it, sat down, and started trying things eagerly. But after all she had already eaten, she was feeling rather sleepy so, curling up on the big seat, she fell into a Peaceful sleep.

Not long after, the Owner of the House returned. Seeing the Broken Bread, the Son said, in his normal voice, "Who’s been eating from MY table?". Seeing a little pile of fruit pieces, the Spirit said in his still, small voice, "Who’s been eating from MY table?". Then, in His big, big voice, the Father said "WHO’S BEEN EATING AT MY TABLE?" and sent the spirit rushing to look.

At the sound like thunder and a rushing wind, Goldilocks woke up and was very frightened. When she saw the Owner, she began to cry with shame and guilt.

"Don’t be afraid," said the Son, stooping down and washing her feet. (She knew she would never walk in the mud again.)

"Don’t be afraid," said the Spirit, taking her hands and making them clean. (She knew they would find other work now.)

"Don’t be afraid," said the Father, wiping the tears from her eyes and making her face shine like the sun. (She knew she would never be the same again.)

Goldilocks wasn’t afraid any more, but ran back to tell her mother, and all her friends, of everything she had found at the Heart of the deep, deep, Love.

And I hear the angels (Song)

As I walk along the darkened streets,
Everyone turns away.
It seems as though they’ve closed their ears
To everything I say.
There’s anger on each corner,
Sadness in the air,
Loneliness in every crowd,
And everywhere despair.

And I hear the angels crying, x3
For what was lost,
For what was lost…

Then I cross the wooden bridge of blood;
Of pain; of death; of crying,
To a place where open tombs are found
And everywhere there’s smiling!
There’s a welcome from each window,
Laughter in the air,
Forgiveness comes from every heart
And peace beyond compare,

And I hear the angels singing, x3
Hallelujah,
Hallelujah…

Father I can’t thank you enough (Song)

Father I can’t thank you enough
For what you’ve done for me.
You turned around my life and you gave
Me a destiny.
You put me on the top of your creation,
Making me secure in your salvation,
Help me to be free from all temptation -
Oh!

Whenever I’m feeling down - You lift me up.
Whenever I’m feeling old – You make me new.
Whenever I’m feeling sad,
You brighten up my day…
You’re the only way.

I want to be (Song)

Like a river flowing through the desert,
I want to be.
Like a trumpet blowing in the Nation,
I want to be.
Like a lightning flash,
Like a thunder roll,
Like the wind that blows where it will;

I want to be like Him
In everything I do,
I want to be like Him
With His Spirit shining through.
I want to be

Like a bright star shining in the dark sky.
I want to be.
Like a still small voice in a hurricane,
I want to be.
From the mountain top,
To the depths of hell,
Like the hand that reached out to me;

I want to be like him…

Like a broken man,
Like a bludgeoned lamb,
Like a rose trampled on the ground….

Like a river flowing through the desert,
I want to be.

Without You (Song)

Without You, without You (x3)
Tell me
Where would I be without you?

You are my provider
The giver of my bread.
You are my Great Redeemer,
The lifter of my head.
You turn ashes into beauty,
Water into wine
And even in my darkest sin
You cleansed this heart of mine

Without You…

You set my feet to dancing
Upon my enemy
And when I start to praise You
The devil has to flee.
You took all my sickness on You
Allayed my every fear
And when my night was full of shame
You’d wipe away each tear

Without You…

You broke the chains that bound me
Set this captive free
And I just want to praise You
Through all eternity
You made everything around me
You are it’s perfect end
And even though you are my God
You are my closest friend

Without You…

Jesus,
Where would I be without You?

New Life (Poem)

Hang on a minute, if you will
And listen to my story.
It won't take long I promise you,
But if it does, well.... Sorry -
But it's about something that 'appened to me
Just the other day,
That made me change direction -
'Turn around', as one might say.
I was thinking of the future
And what it meant for me,
It got a little frightening
So I switched on my TV,
But all that had to offer
Was a sad old kinda life,
Of sex and crime and violence
And men leaving their wives.
So I switched it off and wondered....
Was life really like that?
And I got to thinking maybe it was,
So I went and kicked the cat!

Then out of the corner of my eye, I spied a book
Which had upon it's cover 'New Life',
So I picked it up; 'ad a look.
It told a simple story all about man's fall from 'Grace'
And as I read on further
Everything just fell to place - Y' see
God so loved creation, that he sent his only Son,
To suffer pain and tourment
And upon a cross be hung.
There it was he took the sins
Of the likes of you and me.
He died so we could have New Life
And live it Full... and Free.

I didn't quite understand it all
But somehow knew it to be true,
That as Jesus died - and rose again -
So there's hope for me... and you!

Then all I did, quite simple like,
Was fall down on me knees
And said 'Dear God, I'm sorry,
Will you forgive me.... Please?'
Then something 'append that was wonderful,
That I really can't explain,
But all my fear and discontent
Seemed to dissapear, like rain!
Like rain that soaks the ground is dried
When beaten by the sun,
So all the bad things in me died,
When I made Jesus
Number One!

And ever since that moment -
And my story's nearly through -
I've lived my life to honour Him...
The question is....
Will you?