Monday, December 03, 2007

Reaching the Promised Land-The Here and Now

The Here and Now, after reading the book of Joshua I am in absolute Awe of God. His Righteous Judgment, His Sovereignty, His Faithfulness, Holiness is too much for just one sinner to comprehend but there is hope. For all these attributes of God are accompanied by His grace and mercy, the escape clause we all desperately need.

People always say the God of the Old Testament is different to the God of the New Testament."The Bible contradicts itself." Christian people might even say "lets just preach God grace and not His Wrath," may I ask why?

God's Grace and His Wrath should never be separated at any one time.Firstly if you claim that the Bible contradicts itself you are taking the position I am my own god, its your choice and I'll respect that. Secondly the Bible never ever separates God's grace and mercy with His Judgment. Genesis 3, is illustrated throughout scripture:

After Adam and Eve sinned, after God's Judgment He made them "skin garments" to cover their own nakedness, the foreshadowing of Saviour. This act of mercy from God for even to clothe Adam and Eve, magnifies His love for humanity even though us humans decided to reject His word.

Coming to Joshua, in reading God's promise to Abraham, the conquering of the land had to do with the peoples sin and His Righteous. Rehab and her household were saved while her land was under God's judgment. The nation that conned the Israelites were saved under God's judgment, the inference from the text is clear. Israel were warned in Deuteronomy that the possession of the land was not because of her righteousness "for you are a stiff neck people." In Joshua they are warned either you serve Yahweh and stick to His Word or the "people surrounding you will be a snare to you amongst you."End of Joshua seems promising that they will serve Yahweh. Post Joshua is a different story altogether. A whole generation grew up without knowing what God had done for them (Judges). Israel is also judged, and put under captivity but God promises that he will write "His laws on their hearts and minds" (Ezekiel, Jeremiah) under a new covenant of the coming Messiah. Read the Old Testament Gospel of Hosea. Chapter 6 verse 1-7:

"Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us;
on the third day he will restore us,that we may live in his presence.Let us acknowledge the LORD;let us press on to acknowledge him.As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;he will come to us like the winter rains,like the spring rains that water the earth.""What can I do with you, Ephraim?What can I do with you, Judah?
Your love is like the morning mist,like the early dew that disappears.Therefore I cut you in pieces with my prophets,I killed you with the words of my mouth;my judgments flashed like lightning upon you.For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. Like Adam, they have broken the covenant—they were unfaithful to me there."


The heart of the Gospel is the same as the Old Testament. The Cross is as important and central to the Resurrection of Jesus. Jesus bore God Wrath of our sin past, present and future. So that we may have fellowship with the Father. The curtain was torn. We can enter on the basis of Christ alone. The only contribution we bring to our relationship with God though Christ Jesus is our sin. We stand on grace alone for we too will be judged. The Gospels preaches the Crucifixion and Resurrection. The apostles in the epistles preach, "Christ Crucified" and the "hope we all share in the Resurrection."

My point we should never as believers divorce grace and judgment for God's grace and mercy magnify His enduring love for humanity.Today there is a seeker sensitive movement, "the emerging church." Expository teaching is said to be a hindrance towards evangelism according in some quarters of this new movement.They will say and do what will make people comfortably with intentions of leading them to Christ. Sounds all good and well but lets not underscore or even over score God's Grace because through His judgment there is mercy and an abundance of love.

Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:17, "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power."

-Lloyd

Sunday, December 02, 2007

The Language of Faith

I feel so humbled but in a good way. Not to much of a rebuke but more a quiet yet firm reminder of what it means to have faith to be depended completely 100% on God. The language of faith is 'thank you', not 'please'. Please is the language of a beggar. Charles Price, in sermon of the miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand was truly encouraging and firm reminder what the nature of faith is.

"They (the disciples) had forgotten a most valuable and fundamental teaching Jesus had given …. that He could do nothing by Himself[John 5:19,30]. The best His disciples were able to suggest was to send the people away so they could go to the surrounding countryside villages and buy themselves something to eat."

Phillip measures cost, "Eight months wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite." Charles Price had this to add,"Though we can be a professing ambassador of Christ, as the disciples were we may go to church on Sundays, say grace at meals, give to the needy, but inadvertently keep God at bay in our personal affairs even when times are tough. Relying on self, we can pace and ponder till the sun comes up, endure another sleepless night and still there is no resolve."

Andrew, only looked at demand in lieu of the limited supply in presenting the food the boy had. "But in this crowd of 5000 or more, there was a young boy and to this boy, Jesus was all-important. In his possession were five small barley loaves and two small fish, not significant at all in his hands but what about in the hands of Jesus? What will Jesus do with this food? We can only image what this boy felt as Andrew brought him face to face with Jesus and he handed over his food." “How far will they go among so many?”

When it comes to tithing, mission work, evangelism, ministry we only look at what we own but no what we can give to God. I will be the first to admit my own sense of guilt sometimes. Rather my response should be, 'Lord these are my gifts, money, time, take the little that I have and use it for Your will'.

The language of faith in the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand according to Charles Price is found in John 6:11, "Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks," showing His utter dependence on the Father.

Interestingly, Price while concluding his sermon, he mentions the Last Supper."While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body.Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." Jesus gave thanks showing his dependence on God before taking on the burden of our sins.

If I were to try and eloquently state the language of faith, I would fail. Give credit where credit is due. Charles Price left this extract on the Living Truth Website:

"With every circumstance and crisis Jesus faced, He affirmed His faith by giving thanks, not after His petitions were answered, but before. Paul writes in Philippians 4 vs. 6, “Don’t be anxious for anything but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” 1 Thessalonians 5 vs 18,"give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Thank you is expressing the quiet confidence of faith. It is showing dependency upon God, knowing He is sufficient. Jesus said in John 6 vs. 57, “I live by the power of the living Father who sent me and, in the same way, those who partake of me shall live because of me.”

"A crowd of 5,000, two small fish, five loaves of bread and no one left the gathering hungry that day. For our every need and every resolution to our trials, talk to Jesus and in the ‘quiet confidence of faith’, give thanks."

-Lloyd

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Remembrance Day is About....?

Canadians celebrate. The significance of World War 1 in particular, was that it was the start of a birth of a nation, Battle of Vimy Ridge, 1917 Canadian troops made a significant contribution to the British cause that led to other victories, therein ending World War I. Canadians celebrate and honor those brave men who lost their lives not only in World I but also World War II. If it were not for those men, Canada would not be the nation that is today without their sacrifice, so I am told. Where is God in this picture and is this question warranted?

Let me begin by saying this: Three weeks ago, I should have been killed in a head on car collision. So by now means am I relegating the death of those veterans. Life can change in a matter of seconds. Ask me, I know only to well.Most people who know me in Canada can testify that I'm proudly South African, all be it wearing a springbok supporters jersey, scarf etc. They may see the significance but they are also aware of my patriotism. The same holds true in this case, I see significance of Remembrance Day in Canada and I'm aware of their patriotism. If the purpose for Remembrance Day is for paying respects, I'm all for it. After all mourning is biblical and there are ton's of references. If it is to honor and celebrate those veterans who died and Canada is a nation because of it, then in my opinion it is different matter altogether.

Every year at Bishops, in an Anglican Church School in South Africa, we held a remembrance day service. The difference, Thank you God for the lives of those etc..I think this is significant and should not be underscored. Who started the war? What were the reasons? Who fought against who? The bottom line, man fought against man each side had their reasons. What world explanation is there that 44 million men and many more civilians died because of the war?There are none. The world was divided no doubt but these events were symptoms of a root problem-sin. A world living in a presence of itself and its desires, not caring for the other person. When will we take the responsibility? The "problem with the world? Me. Your sincerely..." a reader wrote in the British telegram.

Based on my observation since I have been living in Canada,I quote "We celebrate and honor the lives of those veterans." Is there valid reason for giving this appraisal? Canada would not be the nation that it is today because of the veterans. Look at the parable of the Prodigical Son. The scandal of the parable is that the younger son ask his father for his share of the inheritance while his old man was still living. "I want your money but I want nothing to do with you. John Dickson's in Simply Christianity, when speaking about the parable, "we enjoy our money,clothes, possession but through ignorance or neglect we fail to acknowledge our Creator. This is the heart of sin, we are distant from God (Luke 15:13, distant country) the fact that the son lived widely was simply symptomatic."

This post has nothing to with question of evil,war or those save the world campaigns. Is it right that veteran's are accredited to Canada's prosperity? With no intent of desensitizing the sanctity of life, I will say the following. It was a man who fought and was a man who was killed in a war. The point, in celebrating national prosperity on the basis of veteran's are we not praising ourselves? Placing faith in ourselves, the very one's who obliterated one another.Hardly seems enlightening. Then we will philosophize and debate items like nature/nurture find 'solutions' and go on living. The sad thing, it is common and its called culture.

Ask any veteran alive why they participate in remembrance day. You'll get a humble response, "In memory of my comrade, who fought alongside me." The marketed public appraisal "Lest we not forgot,"-its because of those that fought that we live the life we have. This rhetoric of "Lest we not forget," sentiment is an altogether different matter than lamenting after a forgotten soldier. I ask, "Lest we forget, Who?"

-Lloyd

Sunday, October 28, 2007

I am in awe of Your Grace

Tomorrow I start classes, labs. exams again. Ready to move on but I just so grateful and In awe of God's grace and mercy. I suck at describing things in words so like usual I came across a song that has can translate my thoughts, song written by Switchfoot called the "Economy of Mercy."

There's just two ways to lose yourself in this life
And neither way is safe
In my dreams I see visions of the future
But today we have today
And where will I find You?

In the economy of mercy
I am a poor and begging man
In the currency of Grace
Is where my song begins
In the colors of Your goodness
In the scars that mark your skin
In the currency of Grace
Is where my song begins

These carbon shells
These fragile dusty frames
House canvases of souls
We are bruised and broken masterpieces
But we did not paint ourselves
And where will I find You?

In the economy of mercy
I am a poor and begging man
In the currency of Grace
Is where my song begins
In the colors of Your goodness
In the scars that mark your skin
In the currency of Grace
Is where my song begins

Where was I when the world was made?
Where was I?

I'm lost without You here
Yes, I'm lost without You near me
I'm lost without You here
You knew my name when the world was made

-Lloyd

Thursday, October 25, 2007

My State of Mind

There is a song written by Lifehouse (Christian Band) called "Broken." I guess the song encompasses my confusions, my pain, the uncertainty, questions of faith. What I like about the song the most that it deals with questions of faith when wrestles with some sought of trauma. The main point of the song, no matter the pain, the trauma as a christian you find "meaning" in your suffering (Romans 8:28). Holding onto God's word: "And I'm hanging on, to the words you say/You said that I will, will be okay," that is what going to get you though. Exercising your dependence on God, allowing Him to dictate things, that is what makes whatever the situation is, "okay." You may feel "lost" at present but you will find your "way back home."


The Broken clock is a comfort
It helps me sleep tonight
Maybe it can stop tomorrow
From steeling all my time
And I am here still waiting
Though I still have my doubts
I am damaged at best
Like you've already figured out

I'm falling apart
I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart
That's still beating
In the pain
There is healing
In your name
I find meaning
So I'm holding on (I'm holdin on)(I'm holdin on)
I'm barely holding on to you

The broken locks were a warning
You got inside my head
I tried my best to be guarded
I'm an open book instead
And I still see your reflection
Inside of my eyes
That are looking for purpose
They're still looking for life

I'm falling apart
I'm barely breathing


With a broken heart
That's still breating
In the pain (In the pain)
Is there healing
In your name
I find meaning
So I'm holding on (I'm still holdin on)(I'm holdin on)
(I'm still holdin on) (I'm holdin on)
I'm barely holding on to you

I'm hanging on another day
Just to see what, you will throw my way
And I'm hanging on, to the words you say
You said that I will, will be okay
The broken light on the freeway
Left me here alone
I may have lost my way now
But I haven't forgotten my way home

I'm falling apart
I'm barely breathing
With a broken heart
That's still beating
In the pain (In the pain)
There is healing
In your name (In your name)
I find meaning
So I'm holding on (I'm still holdin')(I'm holdin' on)(I'm still holdin') (I'm holdin' on) (I'm still holdin')
Barely holding on to you (I'm still holdin on)
Barely holdin on to you

-Lloyd

Time to Close the Book on this Episode

Today has been my "first day" back at University. Its been weird, but at this stage-for me anyway it is about getting back into a routine again. I'm very grateful that my lecturers have given me a break, in terms of writing exams, coming to class, going to labs etc. Everyday is getting better, slowly but surely. By Monday, I should be back to "normal," whatever the word normal means. The insurance company sent photo's of the vehicle today. I've seen the wreck, and I think it is time that I move on. Thank you God that I'm still alive, it was truly a miracle, that deserves your praises to be sung.


-Lloyd

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Dealing with Reality-Part 3

A strategy to overcome trauma, the manual "Self Confrontation," to summarize: Do not look back at but move forward.

Paul reminds us in Philippians, that it is not enough just to look back but to move forward.

Philippians 4:12-13, "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Lastly, "speak of the goodness of the Lord and the recent difference He has made in your life."

Collosians 4:6, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."


Things to consider. Just two days ago I "should have been killed in a vehicle accident." In no way did I intend to endorse this book more than the Word of God. I am still feeling the after effects of the accident but in working through this manual, I realized two things.

The importance of God's word and that his Word is timeless. There were many sound biblical references to various points. I shared a couple that were relevant to my situation. Firstly to deal with this trauma by speaking about it. Secondly, to testify of God's grace He has lavished upon us. Lastly, to serve as an encouragement to you in lieu of my situation. I cannot express in words how grateful I am to God, for giving me a second chance at life. This car collision was nothing short of a miracle.

-Lloyd

Dealing with Reality-Part 2

The second idea that highlighted my attention in "Self Confrontation" is the "powerful love of Jesus Christ that disarms fear."

I love this point so much that I'm copying out verbatim: "Christ's love empowers you to be an overwhelming conqueror is any situation of life (Romans 8:35-39), as you exercise your faith in and through Him (1 John 5:4-5)."

Romans 8:35-39, "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

1 John 5:4-5, "for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God."

Lastly, "Perfect love casts out fear."

1 John 4:18, There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment."

I cannot begin to grasp the depth of God's love. He sent Jesus to die for you and for me. What do I have fear? Nothing., except to echo Chris Tomlin's song, "How Great is Our God."

"How Great is Our God, sing with me how Great is our God!"

-Lloyd

Monday, October 22, 2007

Dealing with Reality-Part 1

So how do I deal with the trauma of a horrific accident? One thing for sure, I should have been killed! Having replays being played out on the road when my parents are driving, when I'm sleeping? After feeling the pain of bruised kidney, blood in urine for the next couple of days, sore right ankle, what's next? Constant pain? My year in perspective: the hospital has been "home" more often than not. I must be so close to being granted VIP status. Is there any hope for me. I can say yes, yes, yes!!! Let me explain:

Since returning home (Sunday evening), I have been reading a book, "Self Confrontation" developed by John C. Broger. An idea presented in the book about anxiety/worry caused by events, have been immensely helpful.

First response to these circumstances of life is: Fear God!
The result of fearing God can bring salvation, wisdom and knowledge etc but reason number 7 stood out for me the most: "that fearing God demonstrates His goodness and loving kindness towards me."

Psalm 103:13, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him."

Seeing my life change in a matter of seconds while behind a wheel of a car, really sought of shook me. It also reminded me of mine mortality, but I have do not have to fear death. Jesus rose from the dead!

Romans 6:5-7, "If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been freed from sin."

Lastly,it was hard for me to forgot about a person called Job. His life was changed in a matter of seconds. Fearing God can invoke gratitude about the countless blessings He has provided for you and for me. The bible's description of Job, "blameless,upright; he feared God and shunned evil." It is not hard to see why Job was described as a righteous man. When disaster, knocked on his front door, Job 1:20-22:

"At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised."

Disasters happen all the time. After the head on collision took place, once I figured I was alive ( I thought at the point of impact I'm dead)! I immediately thanked God. It was only afterwards, when I left the vehicle in pain, shocked and in bewilderment did I truly appreciate the magnitude of this miracle, God spared me. Most people die in head on collisions. Usually, both parties concerned, but in my case no fatalities, just minor injuries!

My question, Do I Lloyd praise God enough? I can say yes when in suffering or disasters. Humbly I'm compelled to say no. What about the good times? C.S. Lewis said, "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world." I need to fear Him and praise Him, everyday.

-Lloyd

Sunday, October 21, 2007

A Day of Two Halves-Part 2

Thank God, I am still alive. I mean literally thank God. I was involved in serious head on car collision that should have left me as good as dead. The vehicle is a complete write off. The moment, my parents van was hit, I thought was dead. This was it!

I'm still in shock and shaken. The accident is constantly being replayed in my mind, over and over. The more, and more the accident is being replayed in my mind, the more and more I continue to think of God's grace. I escaped with a bruised kidney, how I survived, there is no other explanation. The people of the vehicle were in shock but I understand and witnessed them doing okay, the paramedic also confirmed this fact . They overcame no serious injuries. Again I say, Thank God.

This event is a miracle and testament to God's grace. You always hear about peoples' stories of close death experiences, never thinking that one day, it can be you. Your life can change in a matter of seconds. Again all I can add is, thank God. I'm not scared of dying because I share in hope of the resurrection of Jesus. God has given me a second chance. Thank Him.

-Lloyd

A Day of Two Halves-Part 1

Nkosi Sikela iAfrica



World Cup Champions 07. Yeah come on. Brings Back memories for me of World Cup 95 as a kid in South Africa. I shed a few tears when I saw the cup was lifted. You can take me out of South Africa but you can't take South Africa out of me. My blood is Green.

-Lloyd

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Back at University

It's been a good week in which I have been able to "ease" in and settle down. Moved in on Monday to Residence. I saw the specialist for a follow up on Tuesday. In his own words "Lloyd if you want answer about your abdominal pain I have none. Not even my diagnoses fitted the results." So I guess that will be a mystery after all.

In terms of reflecting back on the past nine months that has been rough on me physically, I'm glad and thankful that I landed between a rock and a hard place. God has really built me into stronger character. I said on my blog March 02 whilst reading Romans 5:3-5, "I have to rejoice for my physical suffering. I guess, I wasn't the complete character. For this very reason I will rejoice because in my distress, God will help me build character." At the time, I was confused, dejected and weak. Truth be told I wasn't the complete character then and God in his infinite mercy has built me into a stronger character over these nine months.

In my quiet time today reading my Bible I came across a verse, more or less emphasizes the same point. Quoting Philippians 2: 13, " for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose."

HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD!

-Lloyd

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Mission Trip 07


After a ten day mission trip, I'm sort of exhausted. A wonderful of time in growing spiritually and sharing the gospel. Tired? Yeh! Enjoyed the trip and prayer the God will draw those kids who He has chosen.

Tomorrow I'm headed to Alberta, Edmonton, to drop Uwen off at his University residence, his very first year of University and of life of independence . I've never been to Edmonton, should be fun. I'll try to make the most of it, University begins next week!

-Lloyd

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Medical Mystery SoLVeD!

I have answers, finally! After all the blood tests, scans and lastly all the "scopes" that have been performed the specialist has come to sound conclusion. A sound conclusion I may add, that is like a double edged sword. I am "100% healthy but the pain can last for up to and including a full year." What I had was "rare infection." This whole saga has cruel twist of irony. You see, during the month March, I casually joked with my friends "I've been in pain the entire year, it is now March, there is still nine months to go, bring it on!" What was once a joke, is now becoming a reality! Oh I'm feeling very, very, oh so humble . I'll blame that comment on my body's testosterone levels at that moment in time. At the end of the day, every guy deserves to have one excuse to rival the "women's time of the month syndrome!"
Seriously, Thank you God for your loving provision and for my many brother's and sisters who prayed for me over last eight months.

-Lloyd

Monday, July 09, 2007

"The Lack of the Wisdom of God"


Amongst the confusion of my circumstances (my health? upcoming months?) my head was stuck between a rock and a hard place.What next? Firstly, my long last youth pastor who I miss, had great post (Proverbs Part 1 on wisdom, when you have time click here). Secondly, I been reading a good commentary on the book of Joshua by Dale Ralph Davis. On Joshua 9:3-15 , he echoes the need for God's wisdom, entitled "The Lack of the Wisdom of God."

The Israelites had all signs in front of their eyes (v4-5, 12-13), believing the testimony v9-11. The problem was not so much they asked the right questions but they made the decision on their own, Davis points outs v14, "they did not inquire of the Lord." What they should have done was inquire to the Lord through Eleazer the priest according to the law (Numbers 27:31), "He is to stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by inquiring of the Urim before the LORD. At his command he and the entire community of the Israelites will go out, and at his command they will come in."

Davis adds this warning , "Joshua 9 warns God's people against such cocky independence. In the context of our various trials we need wisdom to know how to function in those trials and circumstance...available from a giving God, and we are to ask for (James 1:5)."

After reading these comments, suddenly upcoming events do not appear to be complicated. Israel learned the hard way, they made the oath alone and had to bear the consequences (Joshua 9:18-21). In the times of doubt I need to seek His wisdom to deal with my health, upcoming studies and other things. I must walk with Him. At the time my judgments appeared to be right but just like Israel somehow, the problem with "common sense" just never occurred to me!

-Lloyd

Friday, June 01, 2007

The Appointment

So, finally an appointment has been made with the gastreonologist. He'll have the proud honor in carrying out a colonoscopy on the 25th of July. If you don't know what a colonoscopy is, I'll leave that to your imagination. Prepping for the procedure takes two days and for good reason I'm advised to stay home. The medication cleans you up real good!


This is a safe procedure. Just the thought, is a little intimidating. Its been a while since I've last blogged, more will come...

-Lloyd

Friday, May 04, 2007

1st Week Off


Well, exams are over. Four months of summer vacation await me. Beginning May ending middle of September. Now its time, for me to find a part time job. Its boring just having so much time, at my own disposal. Hey, that was not a complaint, because everyone in my position would not refuse a summer holiday. I spent my first day of holiday taking my Grandmother to Calgary Airport, on her trip back to homeland, South Africa. She been living with us for almost a year, Can't believe time fly so quickly. It was great having her over for such a long time. From there she accompanied by a friend ours, Elaine, back to Cape Town.

Elaine and my Gran

-Lloyd


Monday, April 09, 2007

What an Easter Weekend

One word to describe my Easter weekend: Unbelievable !

Firstly, the non significant event- I'd never thought I'd admit defeat, the day South Africa loses against Bangladesh. Every team is allowed a "hiccup" at ICC CWC 2007. Regardless of that slip, I still back Graeme and the Boys to bring the World Cup Home. Call me stupid, optimistic and uneducated. Still a lot of cricket left, South Africa beat the Windies, their in the semi's. I calculated the run rate. I stand by my team, My Country!

Now to the Unbelievable:
  • Christ death on the Cross absolutely scandulous! God's grace is truly scandulous, as to why me of all people, as a sinner to be worthy of receiving His grace, for all the pain, humilation and death-Jesus had to endure.Scandulous I'll tell you!
  • Met a South African Family who are taking my Granny back home at the end of the month. Local is altyd lekker. Hulle is ordenlike Kaapenaars. Memories of the Taxi (Wynberg! Wynberg!) reminded me of the good old days. Amongst other things I truly enjoyed the fellowship we all shared in Christ.
  • Easter Sunday had a great lunch with parents friends. Again, a wonderful time in fellowship.

The biggest highlight of Easter Sunday was also listening to sermon on TV by Charles Price on the Ressurection of Christ, 1 Cor 15. A great sermon, outlining them importance and the significance of Jesus rising from the dead so that we may have everlasting life.

Though my pain has become unbearable (been suggested that I'd take an extremely strong pain killers) I will not. Firstly the side effects. Secondly, I'll soldier on with Christ depending on His strength. I could'nt care less about the fact that I have been unhealthy the entire year, "I want to know Christ more." Everyday, after reading his word I want to know Him more. Listening to Fevertree (S.A. rock band) hit "Beautiful" stresses my desire. "Lift me up/off my knees (x2)/ spin me round/turn me back/turn in me inside out/ Call my name/raise me up/Bring me close to You/ All You Are has become/ so much more to me/Cause You Beautiful/and I want you to know how I feel/Cause You Beautiful/Oh yes, You deserve all I am/Give me hope/ That I need/ to be more like you/ Lift my hands (x2)/ As I sing to you/ Cause You're Beautiful/and I want you to know how I feel/Cause You're Beautiful/Oh yes You deserve all I am/Call my name/raise me up/Bring me close to You/ All You Are has become/ so much more to me..."

Well this will be my final post for the month, finals are lurking from next week until the end of the month. Speak to ya then.

-Lloyd

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

The Easter Story



This is the story of a repentant criminal who said: "We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong...Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." (Luke 23:38-43). Have a blessed Easter Weekend.

-Lloyd

Sunday, April 01, 2007

The Twenty Fool?

Today an April fool turned twenty!

Take a good look at that fruitcake trying to do an impression.He tried and failed miserably. Guess you can never take an April fool seriously?

-Lloyd (Thank you Lord, for yet another year!)

Thursday, March 22, 2007

I Need Sleep!

Wow, what a week of studying, no exams until Monday. Two on the same day, bumber!!!I could be all cranky and moan but I'm going to suck up it for change. Jesus exmaple of humality truely challenged me this week. John Chapter 13. What Jesus did for his disciples, demonstarting his love and gave them a picture of what He was about to do, so that we could have everlasting life. (Today, during a hectic week), it was great to share in fellowship with some brothers and sisters in Christ on campus.

And as for Mr Good Old Grizzly Bear, he has been evicted from his cave. I've taken over, today I was given permanent residency in Canada (meaning I can now leave and comeback to Canada as many times as I please, you could probably figure out where I would be headed t0... hopefully in the next year or so). Now I think it is time for me to retreat to my new found cave. I need...some.uh......sleep.

-Lloyd

Thursday, March 15, 2007

A Soul Refreshing Truth

Doing Okay at the moment, I guess. I have days when I don't have the strength to get out of bed and then there are days we're I'll loathe in pain. Depressed? Maybe, but after buying Jars of Clay, Who we are Instead was a pleasant distraction. In fact it was refreshing. Musically, does not get better than this. Whether you're a fan or not (My unbiased rating, just remember Tree 63 is my ultimate followed by Switchfoot etc.) this album deserves 10/10.

Their change of sound from rock to folk/country/blues was masterclass in keeping their identity intact. Layman terms, they still sound like Jars of Clay and you can recognize them pretty easily. None of those lyric cliches that Contemporay Christian artist's have bashed to death. The main highlight or more specifically my point of today's blog. The one recurring theme in all of their songs:
Jesus Defines Who You Are.

Too often I think as God's people we often forget and need to reminded daily, that we are, who we are, because of Jesus. I'm pledge guilty, charged with guilt in the first degree. This all points to a simply yet abrupt conclusion. I'm sorry old sinner in deperate need of God's sore grace that comes only through his Son, Jesus.
-Lloyd

Friday, March 02, 2007

"I Will Sing of Your Mercy"

"Not only so, but we rejoice in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces peserverance;perserverence, 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." Romans 5:3-5

I have to confess that I'm scared. My health has not got any better. A colonoscopy seems probable but that does not scare me. For the first time after visiting the doctor I was actually scared. Helpless you could say. For the record, I know I have said on my blog, that there is beauty in suffering, God is Sovereign. It's somewhat discouraging to say that the seriousness of my health when highligted by a doctor, I withered. This passage in Romans gives me hope, comfort and encouragement.

Paul says REJOICE and I'll say it again REJOICE. Though my suffering is not related to anything emotional or spiritual, I have to rejoice for my physical suffering. I guess, I was'nt the complete character. For this very reason I will rejoice because in my distress, God will help me build character.

Secondly, Hope does not dissapoint because "God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit whom he has given us." Paul goes on to say in the next couple verses, about the hope that does not disappoint. In the next verse (v6) he tells us that "at just the right time, when were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly." Verse 7, 8 gives me hope "but God demonstrates his own love for us in this:While we were sinners, Christ died for us." That very hope, is accompanied with the joy that God no longer condemns us.We posses peace, because Christ death on the cross gave us eternal life (v10).

Jars of Clay wrote a song about rejoicing in our suffering, even when its difficult. I have listened to the track many times for encouragement but I'll know by the end of my pain, health problems, colonoscopy, "I Will Sing of His Mercy, that leads me through valleys of sorrows to rivers of joy."

You have led me to the sadness
I have carried this pain
On a back bruised, nearly broken
I'm crying out to you

Chorus
I will sing of Your mercy
That leads me through valleys of sorrow
To rivers of joy

Verse 2
When death like a Gypsy
Comes to steal what I love
I will still look to the heavens
I will still seek your face
But I fear you aren't listening
Because there are no words
Just the stillness and the hunger
For a faith that assures

Chorus

Alleluia, alleluiaAlleluia, alleluia

Verse 3
While we wait for rescue
With our eyes tightly shut
Face to the ground using our hands
To cover the fatal cut
And though the pain is an ocean
Tossing us around, around, around
You have calmed greater waters
Higher mountains have come down

Chorus

Yeah
Alleluia, alleluiaAlleluia, alleluiaAlleluia, alleluia alleluia, alleluiaAlleluia, alleluia alleluia, alleluia

Chorus (4 Xs) ... Oh, Lord sing of Your mercy,MercyYour mercy

-Lloyd

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Dared to Move

Clearly the Switchfoot hype I experienced last week still has'nt died down. I was listening to their most successful hit "Dare You to Move" and I found a familiar passage in the Bible that has striking clear parrallels to the song. The Story is found in the Gospel of Matthew (19:16-30) about the Rich Young Man.

"Now a man came up to Jesus and asked "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?"
"Why do you ask me about what is good?"
"Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandents."
"Which ones?" the man inquired.
Jesus replied, "Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honour your father and mother, and love your neighbour as yourself."
"All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?"
"If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possesions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Matt 19:16-22

Three things occured to me in this story:

1) You can only serve one Master (v21-24)
When Jesus addresed the young man in verse 21, "sell your possesions.." he challenged the young man's heart. The young man claimed, he kept the observable commandments but Jesus did not ask him what he did( whether he was obedient to his parents or if he stole) but rather where his heart lay. "If you observe the commandents as you claim and want to inherit eternal life, then give up your possesions and follow me." When the young man heard this, "he went away sad," his heart was in debt to his material possesions as opposed to his need to find eternal life (See Mark 10:17,22a).

2) The young man was "Dared to Move" (v20,21)
Jesus did not ask, he told the young man, "sell your possesions and give to the poor, and your will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me." This was the only challenge Jesus laid down for the young man. Look beyond the life what you already aquired, leave it all behind and "then follow me." According to the Gospel of Luke 18:20 we are told that the Rich ruler knew the commandments. The challenge scared the young man because it defied his logic of "what good thing he must do to get eternal life."(v16). There is "no good thing" we could ever do to get us into heaven. We cannot save ourselves. Verse 21, is the most critcal verse when looking at the passage. We have one question. We are all given the same one answer. The key is how do we respond to Jesus? Is it the mehighway or follow Jesus's way ?The Gospel of Mark adds that Jesus looked at the young man and loved him. "One thing you lack, he said.Go , sell everything you have..." (Mark 10:21)

3) There is Hope (v29)
Jesus gives us a promise of eternal life. "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." If want to inherit eternal life, the hope I can offer you is that love Jesus exclusively as your Lord and Savior and not inclusively. You can only serve one master.

When Jon Foreman was interviewed about the album a Beautiful Letdown he said, "Alot of times, often songs are iniatially written for myself even, Dare You to Move, you know that is for my own soul.To get up in the morning and to seek out what matters. Change is a risk espically in our own soiceity. Its a risk to put yourself right on the edge. That's what it takes."

-Lloyd

Saturday, February 24, 2007

Just Seems Like Yesterday...

Officially I have revamp my blog because my family celebrated our two year aniversary from leaving my beloved homeland South Africa. On Wednesday 23rd February, 2005, the Maroney family set foot in the land of the beaver, the bear and of the eskimo. I have to confess I have not seen an igloo or even met Mr Grizzly Bear but I sure do miss the African Sun. Hopefully in the near future I could enjoy going on holiday to South Africa . Below is picture of me and my family after 5 months of settling down in Canada.



Funnily Enough, It Just Seems Like Yesterday...
-Lloyd

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Switchfooting to Vancouver

That was the best Monday I've ever experienced. The 12 hours spent in travelling in bus back and forth from Kelowna to Vancouver, lack of sleep and the exhaustion I'm experiencing was well worth it. All for sake of a band called Switchfoot. The day just got better and better and the experince was surreal! Had great fellowship with a great of group of christians (I did not know them before, shared pizza, chatted and braved the cold weather before the concert). Switchfoot definately rocked the house and were true witnesses for Jesus, sharing the gospel through their music.
Me, my spontaneous Brothers and Sisters in Christ and of course, Switchfoot lead singer and drummer (Jon Foreman and Chad Butler).

After the concert, meeting the lead singer Jon Foreman was even better. To witness his humbleness and dedication for the gospel as an ambassdor for Jesus was truly remarkable. In his own words in an interview with Today Magazine, "I see the gospel as the antithesis of what happens on stage. We have it all wrong in a lot of respects where we interview the people who are up on stage when I truly believe that what happens off stage is more important. How we treat each other behind closed doors matters a whole more as far as infinity's concerned than whether you hit the right note on stage and you had the strobe just perfect and your guitar was in tune. " I was truly privelleged to have met and chatted with a humble, brother in Christ.

(For those skeptics who think that I was bluffing about meeting and chatting with Jon Foreman)

-Lloyd

Friday, February 16, 2007

The Morning Has Finally Been Broken

After months of grey clouds,rain, wind chills, blizzards and snow etc; for the first time in the land of eskimos and beavers, to my suprise I witnessed a clear blue sky and of course my good old African Sun. The weather has made my day (spring is almost upon us now). It has been along long..... time since I have seen the sun shining in crystal blue skies. Sorry Mr Grizzly Bear, this South African is not going to be in hibernation for very long!

My Residency Building

Season beggining to change(UBC-O Campus)

The Science Building


Man it looks like I'm starting to miss Home................


And of course what would this post be without the gorgious African Savanna Sun?


Guess, I got a little carried away,today that was my first source of sunlight since September and was still getting cold.

-Lloyd

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

Enough is Enough!!

Before I got on my high horse I have some good news. I'm seeing the specialist tommorow, hopefully my medical mystery will get sorted out.

Anyway besides the distractions of my health, pain killers and prescripted drugs the liberal teaching in my classes about Evolution and the discredity of the Bible as God Word has really ruffled my feathers!

Today in English, we were discussing creation myths and and in particular Genesis 1 and 2. That class was painful, more so than pain I have been experiencing since the day of operation. Aw! What is the function of Proffesor to lecture on the material at hand or to voice personal bias?

Well, when my Proff taught Genesis 1 and 2 she had a full go at undermining the authenticity of Scripture. Suggesting the Bible is full of contradictions, making assumptions about Genesis 1 and 2 without pointing out where she came to that conclusion. Furthermore, she read the text liberally without using the confounds of English language to interpret this historical narrative text, like she did with previous works, novels before today class. She even ambitiously suggested that the Bible was not accurate and a definite fallacy. In her words the "Bible claims to be sacred but I ask you what is truth? Stating the "JEDP Documentary Hypothesis” of higher criticism is proven to be accurate( JEDP states that the early parts of the Old Testament couldn’t have been written during the times they described. They based this on the belief that writing had not evolved until about 1000 BC).

Even though it was painful to witness her liberal interpretation, God never ceases to amaze me. The evidence suggesting the authenticity of Genesis and of course Chapters 1 and 2 is so compelling, just assures my faith and deepens my trust in his word. I may have gospel opportunity to my Proffesor and my fellow class mates. I have subsequently emailed her the compelling evidence and I asked if she could kindly evaluate and discuss the issue in class (We are in very good terms with one another). God willing, the family of brother and sisters will be extended.

Enough is Enough! Taking a stand for Jesus. This hokey-pokey liberal critism of the Bible has ruffled my feathers. I will not tolerate that God's Authoritive Word is abused while other books are interpreted with much precison and dissection of the text. The article can be found be at http://www.trueorigin.org/tablet.asp.

Prasie be to our God for his Word that continually stands the test of time. Can Human Reasoning disprove his word? I think not, for it was Him who formed us in "his own image giving" us the characteristics of discourse and reseasoning "according to his likeness." Now theres something to ponder. A God who is personal and who desires a relationship and invites us to know Him personally, cause his Son paid the price for our sins, after the fall of Adam and Eve.

-Lloyd

Thursday, February 08, 2007

My Medical Mystery

Rough Week! Still pretty much in pain. Doctors don't know what could be causing my pain. Getting reffered to the specialist in the coming weeks. Not all, has been bad. God willing, I'll get better for February 19th, for a Switchfoot concert in Vancouver.

Since my pain has increased ten fold, I thank God for the comfort and security of his word and his Sovereignty over my my life. "The public still trusts doctors," maybe one day it would be great to say "the public trusts Jesus,"and find their comfort in his yoke for his burdern is light.

-Lloyd

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Seriously, Are You a Doctor?

Well, I really do not know any other word other than pain. Apparently I now have a spastic colon. What's next? Every day the pain is getting stronger... is left or so it seems. The more pain I'm experiencing, the closer I feel to being put under the knife once again. First they removed my appendix. What's left?


Are doctors for real? I'm just trying to see the humour in my misery.

Doctors opinion change, thankfully God's word doesn't. He does these things "for the good of those who love him." To me, Romans 8:28 is thousand times better than those pain killers. Just to know that God is in Control, is more than enough for me.
-
-Lloyd

Wednesday, January 24, 2007

My Best Moments of 2006- Part 2,3,4

Regretably, there has not been one day in this year that I have been healthy. I'm now down with a couple of colds and possible have the flu. Missing two weeks of Varsity is hard enough as it is but I have faith that Jesus will carrry me. So to put a smile on my lovely "New Year" I decided to finally clear out the chesnut on 2006.

Best Moment # 2
Travelling in Italy

This is me inside the Colluseum (Rome)


Travelling with my Bro, Uwen , made the trip all the more better! I decided not to include a great brother photo ( It is his Birthday today, so he rightly deserves to stand solo)!

Best Moment #3
Travelling in Greece


In Athens (for more tour pics see my facebook profile)

Best Moment # 4

Finishing School

My Short Graduation Video


I saved the best for last! Graduating from School is the definately the moment I will savour the most. The year was tough and God carried me through. Since leaving beloved South Africa, to be accepted into UBC, faculty of Science was just a dream. Through the never unending twist and challenges of schooling in 2006, Lord Jesus, there is no way I could have got to UBC on my own. I'm humbled and truly thankful and I will try to make the best of the oppotunities you have blessed me with.

-Lloyd

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

My Best Moments 2006-Part 1

(Highlights were previously on this blog)

click the link here it you did'nt catch it http://video.google.ca/videoplay?docid=-4404528073230845704&q=South+Africa+vs+Australia

I am getting better and should be back at University on Wednesday. These highlights of SA vs Aus at the Wanderes certaintly brought more than smile to my face. As a South African fan, it always feels good to get one up against the Aussies. Yes, South Africa holds the record for the most runs scored in an ODI ever! Enjoy. (This is probably the only match I will try to remember after witnessing the Semi Final of World Cup 99 a match where SA folded, after needing just one run to beat the Aussies).

-Lloyd

Sunday, January 14, 2007

Hello and Happy New Year to You!

Wondered why this blog has been dead for most of this month? I'm recovering!

My New Year has been painful. I've spent the first three days in hospital, the next four recovering at home and from then on it only got worse (in a health wise). After two days back at university the pain resurfaced...

After couple of pain killer's I visited the medical clinic my Dad works at and the doctor suggested I have a blood test. My parent's heard right and my Dad spoke to the surgeon.

Long story short, the surgeon used a scope to have a look inside my tummy. Then he removed my appendix and my appendix appeared normal.I'm at home now and recovering quickly.

The good part about the painful new year, God has truely been merciful untoward me and I have been humbled.

Here's what I know now. People can exhibit the symptoms of bad appendix differently. An appendix can become inflamed and can also return to normal. The question is when will an appendix burst?

My point-it was God who led me to the clinic, after just a simply prayer before going onto a bus while I had the option of staying on campus and resorting to the pain killers my Dad had given me. The surgeon apologized to my parents for the pain I was suffering and he prepared them for the worst and suggested the cause of the pain to be cancer and of course nobody told me. Poor me, lying in a backroom in Emergency blistfully unaware and in pain!(Would have been nice to have known the surgeon's educated guess. Let me tell you now with the pain I was experiencing, to have heard the words "cancer" there is no way I could have coped)!

The blood tests were clean and it was agreed that my appendix be removed. To some that story resembles the worst possible start to the New Year. In and out of the Hospital seems to be great way to spend a holiday.

To me, that was the best New Year yet. I never had the answers to my pain or for that matter my health but I know that there is a God who is Soverign and does these things for good of those who love him. Romans 8:28. Oh ya, I almost forgot...

Happy New Year to you!

-Lloyd