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THE GOOD NEWS PAPER No. 394 ON TOP OF THE WORLD Astronaut on space station sees amazing design and beauty of the Earth

BAIKONUR, KAZAKHSTAN. MARCH 17, 2016: Flight Engineer Jef Williams of NASA (right). Main photo: The Soyuz TMA-20M spacecraft is rolled out to the launch pad at Baikonur Cosmodrome, to take its crew to the International Space Station. (Photos Aubrey Gemignani NASA via Getty Images)

VETERAN NASA astronaut Jeff Williams is currently CHRISTINA GRIMMIE’S PARENTS SHARE HOW Commander of the six-man team of Expedition 48 aboard the International Space Station, returning early September. THEY ARE DEALING WITH THEIR TRAGIC LOSS Looking down on the blue ball we call Earth, Jeff is stunned by its PAGE beauty once again – the ISS trip is 4 Strength to handle pain his fourth space fl ight. Everyday he posts amazing photographs of Earth he assassination of Ameri- saying Christina’s joy in life was on his Twitter feed. can singer Christina Grim- contagious. In 2009, after his third space- mie while she signed The star’s parents wept as fl ight, Jeff wrote the book The Work autographs following a they addressed the church, and of His Hands: A View Of God’s performance at the Plaza explained how they were fi nding Creation From Space in which he LiveT in Orlando in June, shocked the strength to keep going after refl ected upon “God’s care for his Best-selling the music industry but was abso- their daughter was cruelly taken creation, and His wisdom in order- lutely devastating for those who from them. ing the universe.” author knew her personally. “I want to share what I’ve shared The committed Christian sees no The 22-year-old, who was a fi nal- with several people here,” Albert confl ict between his faith and his ist on The Voice 2014, was shot on Grimmie, Christina’s father, said. science – quite the opposite. He says ERIC METAXAS June 10, 2016 by Kevin James Loibl “And that’s— there’s this gigantic that the design of the universe that and taken to hospital in critical con- hole in my heart that I know is science reveals just increases his awe dition. The gunman shot himself on never going to go away. and wonder at the power of God. PAGE the scene, after he was tackled by “God showed me He’s way bigger He says “there are many Chris- 10 the singer’s brother. than that hole,” he added. tians in NASA” and that his work A week after her death, in a pub- “The three things that have kept “has been perfectly compatible with lic memorial service held in her HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA  me walking upright, otherwise I the Bible”. native New Jersey, thousands of MAY 7, 2016: Singer Christina would just be a crumpled up mess Jeff says his relationship with family members, friends, and sup- Grimmie attends The Humane in the corner, are: that I know I’m Jesus began late in his life when porters remembered the talented Society of The United States’ To The going to see her again; I know she’s he and his wife of seven years were young woman. Rescue gala at Paramount Studios. better off now, she’s more alive now slowly drifting apart. While he was “Christina, I am so proud of you,” (Photo Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic) that she’s ever been, she’s not going away doing fl ight training his wife Beauty her aunt Kathy said during the to hurt anymore; and thirdly - and became a Christian. He was so service. “I love you girl. I love that truth with all her heart,” a child- this is where I’m wrestling - is that impressed by the change in her, he you’re walking with Jesus on streets hood friend shared. “She cared God’s plan is better than my plan.” gave his life to Jesus as well, and it within of gold. I’ll see you later.” deeply and she loved wholeheart- saved their marriage. “She was a woman who sought edly.” A cousin took the stand ● Turn to page 10 ● Turn to page 2 LIZZIE VELASQUEZ 2 Edition 394 Something more Floods of joy after despair than gold  BYBY ALAN BAILEYBAILEY HAVE YOU ever imagined yourself standing on the centre riser of the Olympic podium, decorated with a gold medal and listening to the strains of your National Anthem? This is nearest that the overwhelm- ing majority of people will ever get to gold and glory. In my daydream I would love to come running into the stadium lead- ing the fi eld of marathon runners to returning from Rio without a medal the fi nish line. may sink into despair. Millions who “Through Jesus all things can be mended for eternity,” says Arthur Vaka (right) with wife Belinda and family. For the real Olympic athletes, regret their education, their careers, standing on that podium makes all their broken marriages, will have FIFO family overcomes depression that As He did, Belinda desperately the effort worthwhile – the sweat, nothing to show, nothing to boast pleaded, “Please help me, my life is the agony, the months and years of about. nearly tore them apart such a mess.” discipline. It is the ultimate. IS COMPETITION WRONG? “I felt His love and grace beyond OUR MEASURING STICKS It’s often said that competition our years ago divorce seemed to all alcohol and a restored marriage. anything ever experienced,” she Popular thinking always places vic- itself is wrong. Fine for winners but inevitable for Arthur and Arthur’s parents had split when he remembers, “as though He embraced tory over rivals as the road to success. devastating for losers. Belinda Vaka as they lived was 13 due to alcohol and violence, me in His arms. He broke through the Our heroes are the winners. No ques- I’m not convinced about that. It apart in the same house, una- and Belinda also came from a child- darkness that surrounded me and tion. To do well in the world means to seems that competition is so much ble to resolve their depres- hood of violence and abuse. revealed Himself. come out on top, to make a fortune, to part of being alive that we will never sionF and his alcoholism. As he grew older Arthur kept in “That experience changed my life have your name on magazine covers, avoid it unless we crawl under a rock “Both of us were so lost and dam- touch with his dad and rescued him forever. I surrendered completely to match up with a dream partner. and stay there. aged,” Arthur says. from suicide three times. Those and decided to follow Jesus for the The alternative is being an also-ran Competition can bring about great “We took our frustrations out on experiences contributed to Arthur’s rest of my life.” or a failure. achievements and act as the enemy of each other, not realising the damage suicide attempt during their marriage Belinda and the children began This kind of thinking needs to laziness and sloth. Learning to be a it was doing to our kids.” struggles. “Thank God I was found by attending church and “she constantly be challenged. If not, disappointed gracious loser builds good character. Their marriage fi rst began unravel- my brother,” he says. prayed for me”, says Arthur. people will abound, questioning the Of course, there is a level of dog- ling when eight years on a WA north- In the fi nal stages of their divorce, For three months he refused to go worth of their lives. Competitors eat-dog competition which is not west mine and weeks of separation Belinda called her father for advice. to church, usually due to a hangover, healthy. Rivals are despised, others undid Arthur’s resolve against the Since he had become a Christian but the dramatic changes in his wife seen as less than human. Crime and liquid drug that had torn apart his later in life, he asked, “Have you changed his mind. injustice are the fruits of this twisted childhood family. prayed or been to church?” “God answered her prayer,” he says share your story sense of values. “I was fi ghting with depression She said no and hung up, but later with a smile. “I began a relationship Do you have a story about how you came to MORE THAN GOLD and thought money was the problem that night Belinda realised that if with Jesus and, as I got closer to know Jesus, that may encourage others? Perhaps the most successful people solver for all things,” he explains. God had rescued her father, He could Him, Jesus slowly chipped off those Send your testimony, with a colour are unknown and unsung. Our way of Eight years of alcoholism followed rescue her too. rough edges.” photograph, for consideration to [email protected] thinking about success has blinded us until Belinda’s father’s advice led to With a big cry in her heart, she Now their marriage and family is to the things of true and lasting value. a seemingly impossible transforma- prayed, “Lord, if you are real, I need happier than it has ever been. “Jesus People who are faithful, honest, tion: childhood hurts healed, an end to know, please reveal yourself.” is what holds us together,” Arthur pure, kind, considerate and loving reports. don’t hit the headlines for being that “We are free from alcoholism and WWW.CHALLENGENEWS.ORG way. In our world, they look old- the two sons and a daughter who are fashioned, even a bit naïve. still at home are all mended. Our Testimonies Children’s pages family is together because of our Lord Lifestyle articles Sports As for possessing what is valuable, ON TOP OF THE WORLD Published 11 months of the year by Challenge what price would you place on for- and Saviour Jesus Christ. As a family Literature Fellowship (ABN 98 206 125 814) ● From page 1 relationship and actually know Him. we hope and pray that our oldest son in association with the international family of giveness of sin and peace with God? Challenge newspapers. He offers us eternal life as a gift “The experience of being on the will one day open his heart for the Editor: Carl Carmody. Staff writers: and fellowship with Himself and His Talking about his work in space, space station only intensified my Lord Jesus to fi nd him.” Darryl Budge, Jody Bennett, Joanna Delalande Jeff says: “The thing that’s most response to God as I viewed the work The family now loves to contribute WANT A YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION? 11 issues: Son, Jesus Christ. Now we are talking 1 copy per month $39.93 (WA $37.73) about things infi nitely worthwhile. apparent to me when I’m up there is of his fi ngers.” to the music, sound production and 5 copies per month $81.40 (WA $77.00) the detail of the design of the part of Some parts of the Bible seem to children’s ministries at their local BULK PRICES AVAILABLE All bought with the price of the pre- News stand for public place distribution: $75 + freight cious blood of Jesus, shed for sinners. creation we call Earth. And you see describe a modern scientifi c view church. Order Challenge from The offer is to all. Rich or poor, where Earth is in the solar system, of earth from space despite being Arthur says he clearly understands Challenge Literature Fellowship you see how vibrant Earth is… the written thousands of years ago. Job what went wrong with his family. PO Box 978 Cloverdale WA 6985 successful or unsuccessful. We can Call 08 9453 3311 be rich in the right sense of the word. systems that it takes to support life… 26:7-10 says: “He (God) stretches out “There is evil in this world and God Email: [email protected] We make our choice. ● “And, oh, by the way, we can only the north over the void and hangs the has given a free will to all humanity. do this because of the order in God’s earth on nothing… He has inscribed It is sin that breaks up families, but design. Physics is a demonstration of a circle on the face of the waters God was there to comfort us through order, mathematics is a demonstra- at the boundary between light and it all after we turned to Him.” Crossword tion of order, and the fact that we can darkness.” His favourite Bible passage is Jer- launch a rocket at a precise moment, Jeff concludes: “In Colossians emiah chapter 29:11, “For I know the ACROSS 9. One of the low 13. Shortsighted 19. It’s used to at a predictable moment required, 1:16–17, Christ is acknowledged as thoughts I have towards you, says the 1. Fool’s gold countries 14. Part of a rose walk the dog and nine minutes later we’re in orbit the Creator and also the one who Lord, thoughts of peace and not evil, 3. Hot rock 10. Citrus fruit 17. Dark complexioned 20. Guard going 17,500 miles an hour—that’s a sustains – that is upholds and gov- to give you a hope and a future.” 7. Fink 11. Engine component 18. Baby carrier very vivid demonstration of the order erns – His creation. While in orbit Arthur hopes his story gives hope DOWN that we can see in God’s design of his for six months, I grew in appreciation to people in similar troubles, as he 1. Danger creation. of being sustained and upheld day by concludes, “Through Jesus all things 2. Toothpaste “The creation provides but a day.” ● can be mended for eternity.” ● holder glimpse of the Creator. When people see Earth from the perspective of 4. Greek orbit, whether fi rst-hand or through philosopher the descriptions of those who have Sudoku 862 79 5. O ce been there, their thoughts often turn 762 paperwork to God, or at least the question of Fill in the grid so 6. Braid of hair God.” that every row, every 71 3 8. Short term But while creation points us to God, column, and every 3x3 Jeff says we can only fi nd a relation- 12. Pipers box contains the digits 164 garments ship with God through trusting what 1 through 9. 13. Slightly foggy He has told us in the Bible. 96 Puzzle Level: Medium 15. Cat “In studying the Bible, I have grown 18 3 16. Information both in awe of it and in complete trust unit in it as the source of the truth of real- ity, wisdom, and all things necessary 187 for life… It is only through the revela- 79 2 SOLUTION tion of God in the Scriptures that we can actually become close to Him in PAGE 11 SOLUTION PAGE 11 45 72 1 Edition 394 3 HYPNOTIST QUITS AFTER DARK ENCOUNTER BY DARRYL BUDGE She tried to escape by reaching out “Two Chronicles 7, verse 14, says, ‘If my to spiritualists, new-age healers, and people, who are called by My name will humble he claimed therapeutic ben- psychics. themselves and pray and seek My face, and Sally efi ts of hypnotherapy were “I went to pretty much everyone in turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear Jane not worth the pain for Sally the New Age movement, but I actu- from heaven and I will forgive their sin and Jane. ally didn’t fi nd any freedom, in fact I heal their land.’ Though her business was found the opposite.” “Centuries later, Jesus said, ‘Ask and it will Tthriving she permanently closed it As an atheist for over twenty years be given to you, seek and you will fi nd, knock in 2015 to be free from the spirits Sally was adamant there was no and the door will be opened to you’ (Matthew that deceived and Supreme Creator. 7, verse 7).” troubled her. “In that atheist mentality,” On one of her darkest nights, being troubled “I now have peace “I had she explains, “you just don't by these spirits, Sally pleaded with God for and unconditional want to believe that God exists, peace and forgiveness of her offenses against love like I have never made probably since I was swearing Him. had in my whole life,” and cursing Him for twenty “I think my exact words were, ‘I am kneeling Sally says with joyful the right years!” down before your throne and I am asking you tears. Her condition, however, had if you are actually there. I want to see You’.” The trouble began decision” become impossible as she suf- After fi ve minutes she remembers during an intimate fered constant anxiety, then “an incredible thing happened.” relationship with a suicidal thoughts. “My eyes were closed and two charming man who had a hidden In desperation she humbly asked blinding fl ashes, like lightning, came Spirit. Changes that I am still grate- I found peace and unconditional love secret. her best friend how to ask God for through my eyes. ful for now. like I had never had in my whole life,” “I discovered he was deeply help. “Every bit of human emotion left “It's just been such a smooth Sally says with joyful tears. involved with satanic dark powers “He advised that I search online for me and I lay in a peaceful state, it transition. I am not the person I was “I found new friendship, the truth and black magic,” Sally shares. the ‘sinner’s prayer’. He clearly said, was supernatural. I just knew that my last year.” of His Word, and God has also It was a “massive shock”, she ‘Do not read it aloud unless you mean Father was telling me, ‘None of your At fi rst Sally made excuses so she removed so much bad out of my life recalls, to be face-to-face with “dark it, because God will know if you are sin matters now’, and that everything could practise hypnotherapy. too.” experiences” that infl icted serious being genuine or not.’ would be okay.” “The more I continued, the guiltier Referring to her experience, Sally anxiety and pain on her life for a “I read one prayer, and I was in fi ts After this Sally knew her life would I felt, I knew I was not pleasing God, says there is no truth or peace in seek- number of years. of tears: something inside my spirit change as her relationship with God my Father. ing for anything one’s heart desires, “I ended the relationship and the resonated with it.” deepened. “He showed me that I was being like money, wealth, talking to the darkness continued to try and pos- Sally explains this inner desire for “God revealed parts of me that deceived and that hypnotists have dead, or going to see people to try and sess my thoughts, my dreams, my God in reference to two Bible verses I needed to change and parts that been used as a puppet by deceiving talk to the dead. every waking hour.” that now have a rich meaning for her. He just changed through His Holy spirits of divination.” “Such a life is deception, one which Sally read in Deuteronomy chapter I fell for myself for many years,” she 18 that God “detests” divination, says. acting as a medium or calling up “My prayer is that you should reach the dead. out to God, accept Jesus for what He “This verse gave me peace that I did for us, and humble yourself and had made the right decision. in return receive the gift of everlast- ABRACADABRA “I chose God and my life got better. ing life.” ●

BY JODY BENNETT YOU MIGHT have seen a great series on Netfl ix that MAKING THE MOST OF TODAY exposes the secrets of famous magicians. The show fi rst shows you how the trick is performed and then exposes the secret to how the illusion is achieved, Imagine there is a bank that credits your account ea ch morning with $86,400, and it has got me thinking about its parallels to life. then at the end of every day the bank deletes whatever remaining balance you Firstly, the audience in a magic show has only one per- failed to use during the day. spective - either the camera shot on the TV or the front of What would you do with the stage at a live show - and can’t even guess at what is t h e m o n e y ? going on “behind the scenes”. In one trick the illusion is There is a bank called created that an army tank has disappeared into thin air ‘Time’. Each morning you are when in fact the camera, and audience, is just turned to credited with 86,400 seconds look at a totally different spot! (24 hours) to spend however Secondly, the show brought home to me how dependent you please, and each night whatever amount that not invested in a good pur- we are on what we see, or imagine that we see (whether pose is written of . literally or fi guratively), and it is very easy to fool us into This means we must use our time wisely. believing things that are simply not true. We “see” that You can’t draw more time out for ‘tomorrow’; you can only live in the present the coin is solid, the girl is fl oating in the air or the box is on today’s deposit. Invest it wisely. The clock is running, make the most of every empty, when in fact none of those things are true. day. Thirdly, so many of the illusions come down to distrac- WHAT IS A WISE INVESTMENT? tion: getting the audience to look at the beautiful girls, In a lifetime the average person will spend 25 years sleeping, 10.3 years at the elaborate costume or set, or the trajectory of the knife, work, 9.1 years watching TV, 1.1 years cleaning and 92 days on the toilet, accord- in order to miss the secret on which the illusion turns. ing to calculations done by wikibrains.com. But once the trick is explained and you know that It is crazy to think that we could spend more time cleaning and sitting on the secret is twin women, a hiding place in the prop or is all there is, blinding us to the reality of the spiritual the toilet than we do thinking about our purpose in life and what happens handcuffs that are rigged, then the whole act usually world, and to the existence and importance of our own, after we die. seems pretty silly. eternal souls. Most people spend a considerable amount of years working to earn money How like life, where as humans our view on the world Next we get distracted from what is truly important by to buy nice things but when we die what do we take with us? is so limited by our narrow perspective as earth-bound, the trivial – the footy score, how much we weigh or our If a heaven and hell exists, have you really considered where you will end mortal, relatively short-lived creatures; where we are so bank balance, none of which matter in the light of eternity. up for eternity? dependent on what we see; and where we are so easily And fi nally, Satan lies to us that after the “show” (this God is the One who sees and knows all that we do, whether good or bad. distracted by the unimportant affairs of life. life on earth) there is nothing else. However, our whole “Teach us to number our days,” says Psalm 90, verse 12, “that we may gain a If we imagine “all the world is a stage”, as Shakespeare life on earth is just a tiny fraction of our eternal existence. heart of wisdom.” said, then God is the only one above and behind the scenes The big question is this: if life is like a magic show, short God doesn’t give us time so we can earn His favour, or use it to secure a place who can see the situations of life for what they truly are. and at times deceptive, have we taken time to work out in heaven – the gift of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ is free. The Bible calls God’s nemesis, Satan, the Father of our response to the love, life and death of Jesus that deter- Using time wisely means pursuing God, believing in Jesus and understanding Lies and says that when he lies he is speaking his native mines where we go when the fi nal curtain comes down? His will and purpose for our lives. It will involve loving and serving others like language. He is out to deceive people at every turn. Because where we go is our choice not God’s sovereign Jesus does. It will involve living lives which give glory to God. He does that fi rst by convincing us that what we see directive. And no choice is still a choice. ● I encourage you not to take time for granted. Remember the clock is ticking … make the most of your time! ● 4 Challenge Edition 394 Dream changed best-selling author iterary genius and best-selling stroke and fell into a coma Ed was As he picked it up author Eric Metaxas was once there to comfort, saying he and some by the gills Eric says convinced no one could claim friends were praying for his uncle. he suddenly became to know God, but an epiphany “I was astounded at the kindness of aware that the fish led him to devoting his life to the gesture and at the idea that these was IXTHYS, the early Lthis very claim he once rejected. people believed there was a God who Greek word of Chris- As a typical university student, heard prayers like this and could do tians from the acronym Eric lived how he pleased but recalls something about it,” he says. for Jesus Christ Son of feeling trapped “in the belly of a “Around this time a slight shift was God Our Saviour. corporate whale” and unable to fi nd taking place in my mind, too.” This symbol was a job after graduation. Eric continued searching and important in Greek Despite good grades, Eric was sometimes prayed for God to reveal orthodox culture, Eric Eric Metaxas eventually forced to take the only job Himself in some sort of sign. explains, which means he could fi nd: proofreading chemi- Then, just before his 25th birth- “God was one-upping me in the lan- doesn’t particularly prove anything, a society will collapse. cal manuals and other non-literary day, he had a vivid dream where he guage of my own symbol system.” on the other hand it’s either true or “We live in a culture that has arcana. says God clearly spoke to “the secret In that moment Eric realized God it’s a lie.” bought into the patently silly idea In the drudgery he befriended vocabulary of my heart”. had revealed Himself through the Knowing Jesus is real now moti- that there is a divide between the graphic designer Ed Tuttle, a Chris- His dream involved his favourite person of Jesus Christ. vates Eric to commit his life to secular world and the faith world,” tian believer who often engaged past-time, ice-fishing, where he “I realized in the dream that He explaining his love for God through Eric shared with WSJ.com in Decem- with Eric about his search for life’s recalls, “I looked into the large hole was real,” he says. his gifts in writing and ber 2015. meaning. we had cut into the ice and … [there The next day Eric speaking. “Some of the greatest minds One day when Eric’s uncle had a was] a fi sh poking out.” explained to Ed how “A life with Among many others, I’ve ever met; people that are just God had spoken to him he has been recognized extraordinary, brilliant, thoughtful, personally. meaning is for his New York Times emotionally intelligent people are “I said that I had best-seller Bonhoeffer: people of faith in Jesus.” accepted Jesus [as my what we are Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, In his personal life, Eric adds that Believe it or not READ MORE AT CREATION.COM Saviour who took my Spy and has followed in while life can sometimes be diffi - penalty for sin]. And looking for” the footsteps of people cult, ultimately God has given him when I spoke those like Mother Theresa and the purpose and hope he had been Australia’s Red Centre through words I was flooded Bono as the keynote lacking. with the same joy I had had inside the speaker at the 2012 National Prayer “Following Christ means I am new lens dream. And I’ve had that joy with me Breakfast in Washington DC, an going to follow Him wherever He for the past 25 years,” he says. event attended by the President and leads me, and even if He leads me VISITORS to Australia’s Red Looking back on his past beliefs, other key world leaders. into suffering and diffi culty there is Centre will often only hear Eric says, “Just because somebody In more recent times Eric has had joy in the midst of it,” he says. a secularist explanation can’t explain something doesn’t mean key engagements where he makes a “That’s the paradox at the heart of for the spectacular, red landscape. Now they can also consider a Biblical that it’s not a) explainable or b) true.” strong case that religion is the essen- following Jesus – a life with meaning perspective. “I think the idea of that dream tial exercise of virtues, without which is what we are looking for.” ● The Centre is popular with tourists the world over, eager to experience the fascinating desert environment: rocky outcrops, gorges, unusual plateaus and valleys. Creation Ministries International recently released four, short videos that showcase the beautiful scenery and reveal their origin as explained by the eyewitness historical record of the Bible. CMI geologist Tas Walker said, “The clips show how the spectacular TALE OF MERCY REIMAGINED scenery was formed during the recent global catastrophe of Noah’s Flood. The evidence in the Centre is dramatic and powerful. Professional geologists are documenting the evidence for catastrophe right through the centre of BEN HUR (3D) Australia.” Rated PG, out August 25 He went on, “Most people are surprised when they i rst have this evidence pointed out. Surprise turns to amazement when they see the same features BY DARRYL BUDGE in front of their eyes wherever they travel. The evidence is so obvious that IN A TIME when movies appeal to they are astounded that they did not see it before.” our lowest impulses, the new Ben Although the clips are short, detailed back-up information with pictures Hur i lm shines with forgiveness and and diagrams is available at creation.com/redcentre. mercy over vengeful violence. People learning about or planning to visit the Centre will get so much Produced by Mark Burnett of more from their visit by checking out the material. MGM’s Survivor and The Apprentice, Presenter Dr Mark Harwood said, “Understanding Noah’s Flood changes the new 3D blockbuster is a thrilling how you look at the world, and how you see your place in it. Check it out at and beautiful reimagining of the creation.com/redcentre.” ● original 1880 novel rather a remake Hur, a Jewish prince whose adopted carrying out the executions, and of the 1959 classic. brother Messala (Toby Kebbell) has realises that their sinful deeds can be “The 1959 movie was about returned after commanding a Roman cancelled by His sacrii cial death, His revenge, not about forgiveness,” says legion of soldiers. perfect love. director Timur Bekmambetov. As some Jews mount small, violent The two paths before Judah “For me that was the main rebellions against their Roman become clear: revenge and the cycle problem, as I think that the novel is rulers, Messala falsely accuses Judah of perpetual hatred and violence, mainly about forgiveness… a human of attempted assassination after or pardon and peace through the being learning how to forgive.” a Roman commander is shot. He mercy of God. Our modern world, says the sentences his brother Judah to life He chooses to turn away from a director, “reminds me very much in the Roman sea galleys, and falsely world that praises revenge, tyranny, of a huge Roman Empire…where imprisons Judah’s mother and sister. and the spilling of blood. the most important values were After years of slavery, aided When Jesus taught that true joy pride, rivalry, power, strength, the by wealthy horse trainer Ilderim comes after body-and-soul surrender dictatorship of power, and self-love. (Morgan Freeman), Judah returns to to His sacrii cial love, it swept “This kind of world does not have his homeland to seek revenge. through the ancient world and any prospects today. Humanity has A new spirit of radical forgiveness changed the history of the world to learn how to love and forgive. This is changing Jerusalem, however. The forever. would be our only solution.” old rationale of ‘an eye for an eye’ Estimated to cost $70 million, Ben The novel, by US Civil War Union and ‘love your friends and hate your Hur uses convincing CGI unlike the General Lew Wallace, has been hailed enemies’, is being replaced. 1950s-era i lm, which used great as “the most in uential Christian Judah i nds a new path when crowds of extras, grand sets and real book of the nineteenth century” and he watches Jesus’ confronting stunts that cost US$15m ($129m is set during the time of Jesus Christ. crucii xion. He looks at the crucii ed today) and killed a stunt man and The new movie casts Jack Huston thief alongside Jesus and then 100 horses. ● of Boardwalk Empire as Judah Ben- looks at the soldiers responsible for Check out the trailer at ShareBenHur.com.au 8 Edition 394 ER’SFATH D AY BBREAKINGREAKING FREE Aussie dad escaped twenty years of self-destructive habits

ormer male prostitute Thom sold his body for Therefore, choose life that One of many Christian Thomas Wedge has money and was about to enter both you and your descend- men who prayed for him travelled the world adult films, but an audible ants may live.” told Thom, “God says telling people there is voice saying “Don’t” prevented Immediately Thom prayed, you are a worshipper, a everlasting hope freely him from visiting the fi lm set. “God, I want to live, but I don’t brother, a man of God. availableF to those trapped by It was when his friends know how I am going to do it.” You are gifted, you have harmful addictions. began dis- As Jesus took skills and intelligence.’” The American-born mar- appear- control of his Thom then prayed, ried father-of-one now living ing Thom “God, I want life Thom began “Okay God, I don’t iden- in Perth says his decade-long realised his reading the Bible tify with this new man addictions to drugs and sex life had to to live, but I systematically. they’re describing, but were sparked by a lack of love. change. don’t know Weyman and that’s the one with life As a young teen Thom felt “Some Susan Howard, a and who I want to be. I unloved by his wealthy father, were dead, how I am Christian couple am going to live as that yet he recalls a 27-year-old diagnosed he had met three because I know that Thomas Wedge man “told me he loved me, and with HIV going to do it” weeks earlier, is Your vision and I’m I had to give him my body for followed by warmly invited going to need your help.” world with Weyman and all things are possible for him that love.” AIDS, or in him to eat and Thom says surrendering his Susan “to share God’s love”. who believes.” This childhood sexual abuse prison for drug crimes,” he stay at their house even as he identity to God changed every- Thom met his Perth-born “Now you have heard my became a lifestyle choice upon sadly recalls. continued attending sex clubs. thing: “Jesus became Lord of wife Misty at an English story, will you choose life? adulthood as Thom told him- “I never completely trusted “Weyman and Susan won my destiny.” church in 2008 and today Choose Jesus!” Thom exhorts. self, “This is what I am going people around me in this life- over my heart,” Thomas He saw his mother change he mentors young men and “G.K. Chesterton said the to be.” style, but I found Christians explains. “I had a picture of after forgiving his father. As he runs his own men’s skincare good news of Jesus has not During his theatrical stud- were very nice to me. I was Jesus and life outside of the forgave his dad, Thom found business. been found wanting; instead, ies at Pepperdine Univer- often choosing between a sex sex clubs, and a place of peace freedom. He quotes Jesus’ promise, ‘It has been found diffi cult and sity in Malibu, California, club or going bowling with a with them.” He began travelling the “If you can believe [in Jesus], not tried.’” ● Thom was miraculously and Christian young adults group.” instantly healed of bronchitis He listened quietly to ser- and pneumonia. mons at the back of a church. Thom recalls, “I knew the But Thom was still con- healing was Jesus’ doing,” and sumed by his addiction. He he enquired what Jesus could felt miserable after numer- Wo rth more than you know do about his lifestyle until a ous failed attempts at sexual church minister declined to addiction recovery programs, elf-doubt drove Jody “Through those years, at the help. and tried overdosing on drugs. Bennett to pursue back of my mind, I somehow He found success as a TV Before he could overdose romantic relationships knew the truth that the answer and theatre actor in the Holly- Thom says God inaudibly in her early teens but to my need for acceptance and wood entertainment industry warned him: “Thom, I love with three girls of her love was to give all my broken- and embraced his homosexual you, but you reap what you Sown today, she is determined ness and hurt to Jesus. It just attractions, as he felt more sow.” to prevent them from making took me some time to believe accepted in them than he had A devastating HIV diagnosis the same mistakes she did. it,” she says. at the minister’s church. motivated him to fi nally give “I wish now that I could go She recalls attending a After attending sex clubs Jesus control of his life. back to that unhappy 13-year- church family camp at age he became addicted to crystal Outside the clinic he went old and tell her what I know six, where she knelt with her meth and recalls having a to the Bible in his car glovebox now,” Jody says. mother beside her bed and “long string of boyfriends”, and happened to read God’s It all began when Jody’s prayed for Jesus to become which he says was emotionally offer of life and death to the father, wanting to avoid any- Lord of her life. painful. people of Israel, recorded in thing inappropriate, withdrew “Even at that young age I “I disappeared into Hol- Deuteronomy chapter 30: physical affection and dis- knew that every inclination lywood sex clubs for up to fi ve “Today, I call heaven and earth tanced himself from her as she of my heart was to do wrong days. On meth I wouldn’t eat as witnesses against you that entered adolescence. and I needed Jesus’ help, and or drink, and had very little I have set before you life and “Desperate to know that I wanted to go to heaven to be water.” death, blessing and cursing. was attractive to the opposite with Him when I died,” she sex and valuable as a person, explains. this was very hard and led me Later, at age 11, Jody was to start dating at age 13,” she baptised as a public declaration shares. of her faith in Jesus. When that fi rst “true love” “In high school I learnt a relationship did not work out, Bible verse that became a Jody became suicidal and tried lifeline to me and the basis to overdose. for developing a new, healthy “This was the beginning of self-image grounded in what several years of wrestling with God says,” she shares. my sense of belonging and self- “It reads: You have looked Jody with her father and daughters worth,” she says. deep into my heart, LORD, “I made myself throw up and you know all about me. born, you had written in your “not needy or wanting my hus- after meals because I felt fat You know when I am resting book everything I would do.” band to fulfi l me”. and continued to be tempted or when I am working, and (See Psalm 139: 1-6; 13-16.) Now with three girls enter- by suicidal thoughts. I with- from heaven you discover my However, it was only at 27, ing their teens she says she drew into morbid music and thoughts. You notice every- and after several boyfriends, encourages them and others to fantasy ‘zoning out’ for hours thing I do and everywhere I go. that Jody fi nally let go of the lie see that the best foundation to at a time.” Before I even speak a word, you that only being part of a couple build your identity on is writ- Her mother could not under- know what I will say, and with proved that she was loveable or ten in God’s Word, the Bible. stand why she was so “angry” your powerful arm you protect valuable. “Listen to and believe what all the time but from Jody’s me from every side … You are “That was when I fully God says about you and not perspective she was just crying the one who put me together embraced God as the only what society is pressuring you out for help. inside my mother’s body, and source of my identity and self- to be,” she exhorts. Not knowing how to I praise you because of the worth. I found true release “You have intrinsic worth, respond, her parents punished wonderful way you created me. from the need to make myself God made you the way you are or ignored her “attention get- Everything you do is marvel- into what others wanted.” for a reason, you don’t have ting behaviour”, leaving her lous! Of this I have no doubt. Shortly after that Jody met to try to be someone else and feeling even more miserable Nothing about me is hidden her husband, and she says she God’s plans and timing are and misunderstood. from you! ... Even before I was was able to enter into marriage always the best.” ● 9 Edition 394 FATHER’S DAY What THE VERY BEST DAD “My heart has been type of healed,” says child abuse survivor father rowing up without a father and years of physical and sexual abuse sent Queenslander Mark Stiles down a road of low self- is God? esteem, depression and suicide attempts. GMark was just 12 years old when he was sent to a church home in 1971. “It was a very lonely place,” he recalls. “It was devoid of love, it was devoid of pleas- antries… It was devoid of family.” There he suffered at the hands of one of the staff whom he says sexually abused him “at least four out of every seven days.” FILE PHOTO “Many times he would drag me out of bed at 3am for allegedly making a noise,” he One morning at 4am Mark awoke and destruction his childhood trauma had told the Royal Commission when he shared began writing at his computer. What he caused. his story with them in February last year. ended up writing was a book of his experi- “I can’t even begin to describe what [God] Mark left the home in December 1972, ences at the Home. has done for me. He healed my heart, He HAVE YOU HEARD people say ‘I like the Jesus of the New but the destruction he had suffered contin- A few days later on his drive home from gave me love. Testament (NT) but I don’t like the angry God of the Old ued to affect him every day. work Mark was thinking about the words “Most of all He taught me my identity: Testament (OT)?’ When you leave a place like that he he had written when he heard the voice of I’m a son. And I have a dad. For the fi rst According to Christianity, Jesus is God in human form. Jesus explains “you take into life a lot of mistrust, God very clearly say: “Mark, Jesus is alive.” time in my life I have a dad, and I love told His followers that if they had seen Him they had seen hate; you take into life a lot of arrogance, “I had to pull over. I broke down into Him to bits.” God. Sometimes it seems to me though that we think they very poor opinions, those sorts of things. tears. It was too much,” he says. Mark says he has learnt to forgive those are two different types of gods: that the OT God is a stern, And they form part of who you are.” “It was the beginning of me discovering responsible for the abuse he suffered at strict Victorian father who takes the strap to his children if “I have been second guessing myself my [that] what I’d wanted all my life was a dad. the home. they do wrong, whereas we imagine Jesus as a modern, fun whole life, almost every day. I feel I have And I had the best one. I had the top of the “When we forgive and we learn to love, parent who gives us lots of hugs and positive reinforcement. gone through life afraid and my self-esteem tree, the very best dad I could have, which it’s just the full release of everything. But are either of these really the picture the Bible portrays? has been shot to pieces,” Mark says. was God. God the Father.” “Today my message is simple,” he says. In fact, the Bible often does portray God as a Father. That and the lack of a father fi gure in his Mark describes the next few days as “Jesus is Lord of all. To all that are lost in rough as he fought to accept the notion of the pains of hurts many years ago, wherever ● In a verse that appears on lots of Christmas cards, Jesus was life caused Mark to make some “bad deci- prophesied in Isaiah to come as a Wonderful Counsellor, sions” and for years he drank to drown his a loving heavenly Father who wanted only you are, go into a quiet place and ask Jesus Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. insecurity and depression. good things for him. to touch you. Begin your journey home to Today, however, he says he has been where we all belong, in the lap of the Father ● King David, in the Psalms, says, ‘You are my Father, my God.’ “I had no self-worth whatsoever ... life (Psalms 89:26) was without meaning.” completely healed from the pain and [God].” ● ● The famous story of the Prodigal son describes God as the loving Father waiting expectantly for the return of his disobedient child. ● Romans 8 says that Christians are “adopted” into the family of God, and they can cry out to their “Abba”, which means IInspiringnsp iring Father’sFather’s Day “Daddy” in Aramaic. But even the OT shows us a picture of God being a very compassionate father to the Israelites - repeatedly overlook- BY GRAHAM MCDONALD holiday in the same fashion as ing their disobedience to His laws, giving them another Mother’s Day. chance to do as He has directed, giving them plenty of warn- IN 1909, John and Sonora Due to the support of these ing before He disciplines them, not enjoying correcting them Dodd attended the Mother’s Christian organisations, and and relenting when they turn back to Him. Day service at their church. Sonora’s dedication to the Bearing in mind that God is a being of infinite power who, As Sonora listened to the cause, the fi rst Father’s Day was the Bible says is so big He holds the world in His hand, He sermon and heard the virtues celebrated on June 19, 1910. could have wiped them off the face of the earth at any time, of mothers and motherhood Sonora wanted Father’s Day quite justly, for their rebellion against Him. from the Scriptures, her mind to be celebrated on the fi rst However, His anger at their wrongdoing and betrayal of went back to her childhood. Sunday in June, which was Him is short-lived compared to His infinite loving kindness She thought of how important close to her own father’s birth- Fair for her contribution to Sunday in September. towards them. fathers are in raising children day. However, to allow pas- commerce. Sonora Dodd’s efforts to And in the NT we find Jesus is not an indulgent dad, but and she thought of the notion tors enough time to prepare a Some 72 countries celebrate celebrate and promote Father’s He shows the Father to us as a God who has high standards, of a Father’s Day. service, the fi rst Father’s Day Father’s Day on the third Day were a practical expression who disciplines the children He loves, who will one day judge Sonora’s father William, a was pushed back to the third Sunday in June, whereas of the fi fth of the Ten Com- the world and all wrongdoing, who hates sin and who wants Civil War veteran, lost his wife Sunday of June. Australia, New Zealand and mandments: “Honour your us to be “holy”, which means set apart to do what He wants. as she gave birth to their sixth Local businesses that had some of the Pacific Islands Father and your Mother.” ● The God of the Old and New Testaments is one and the child. Sonora was sixteen at the already profi ted from the Moth- celebrate this event on the fi rst This article appears on www.DIDUNO.info same God. A God who is both completely perfect and incred- time of her mother’s death and er’s Day celebration started ibly forgiving and kind. being the eldest child, much taking out newspaper ads His perfect holiness means that our sin (wrongdoing) can- of the responsibility to raise with a Father’s Day theme. not be overlooked because that would make Him unjust. His her fi ve brothers fell on her Many trade groups that would Better than “Dad jokes” ... love means that throughout history He has made a way to shoulders. benefit most, for example pay for our sins and make us part of His family. Through the diffi cult years manufacturers of ties, belts Four men are in the hospital waiting second man. “I work for the 3M Out attempts to “earn” right relationship with God our- following her mother’s death, and braces, helped Sonora to room because their wives are having company!” babies. A nurse goes up to the  rst A nurse tells the third man, selves, by our own goodness, are like a small child who Sonora watched her father receive national coverage for “Congratulations! You’re the father repeatedly tries to reach a door handle or climb an obstacle, guy and says, “Congratulations! care for the six children with Father’s Day. You’re the father of twins.” of quadruplets!” until eventually he or she bursts into tears and admits defeat. love and devotion and saw him President Woodrow Wilson “That’s odd,” answers the man. “I “That’s strange,” he answers. “I In fact, righteousness is so far out of our reach, it is more make sacrifi ces in order to give approved of Father’s Day work for the Minnesota Twins!” work for the Four Seasons hotel!” like a child trying to pull down the moon or fly off a tower! the children better lives. in 1916, and by 1919, when A nurse says to the second guy, The last man is groaning and Although we may desire to do the right thing or feel the After the Mother’s Day Sonora’s father – the man who “Congratulations! You’re the father banging his head against the wall. noble emotion, we all know the frustration of completely church service in 1909, Sonora inspired the holiday – died, of triplets!” “What’s wrong?” the others ask. lacking the desire or ability to follow through for long on that felt inspired to campaign for Father’s Day was a popu- “That’s weird,” answers the “I work for 7 Up!” good intention … or indeed at all! equal recognition of fathers. In lar occasion and celebration Dear Dad: $chool i$ great. I’m making lot$ of friend$ and $tudying hard. However, the message of the Gospel is that when we give June 1910, Sonora approached across The United States of I $imply can’t think of anything I need, $o ju$t $end me a card, a$ I would up trying in our own strength and ask for God’s help, the the Spokane Ministerial Alli- America. love to hear from you. Love, Your $on sacrifice of Jesus on the cross pays for all our wrongdoings ance and the Young Men’s Sonora was honoured as the Dear Son: I kNOw astroNOmy, ecoNOmics and oceaNOgraphy are eNOugh and we get given His righteousness as a free gift. Christian Association (YMCA) founder of ‘Father’s Day’ at the to keep a student busy. Do NOt forget that the pursuit of kNOwledge is a That’s why Christianity is good news! ● to establish Father’s Day as a 1940 New York World Trade NOble task, and you can never study eNOugh. Love, Dad 10 Edition 394 BEAUTY WITHIN izzie Velasquez was brows- and the effect it had on her outward “(My faith in Jesus has) ing through YouTube as a appearance defi ne her. been my rock through eve- typical teenager when she When the cruel video came out and rything, just having the time came across a video titled The comments started appearing like: to be alone and pray and Ugliest Woman in the World. “Lizzie, please, please just do the talk to God and know that LShe soon discovered the video starred world a favour, put a gun to your head He’s there for me,” she says. her and already had over four million and kill yourself,” Lizzie had a choice. Lizzie has come to see her views. She knew she could believe those syndrome as a blessing from Now 27 years old, Lizzie Velasquez things about her, or she could stand God, which she can use to has never weighed more than 29 kilos above the insults and believe she motivate, inspire, and help in her life and has zero percent body was beautiful and treasured by God other people realize they fat. She suffers from an undiagnosed, her creator. are loved and perfect as very rare condition that prevents her “God is the number one reason why they are. from gaining weight. She is also com- I am here,” she told CNA. “He blessed The video may have pletely blind in her right eye and has me with the greatest blessing of my had 4 million views, but limited vision in the other. life, which is my syndrome.” her inspiring 2013 TEDx As King David wrote in Women talk has been seen Psalm chapter 139 verses by 7 million and has had an 13 and 14, “For You (God) impact on countless lives. ● created my inmost being; Lizzie tells of her own journey you knit me together in my towards self-acceptance in her 2012 book Be Beautiful, Be You mother’s womb. I praise and in a documentary A Brave you because I am fearfully Heart, see ABraveHeartFilm.com Lizzie Velasquez and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Lizzie’s decision to fol- low Jesus Christ came at “Yes, it is as good as it sounds,” the end of high school and has seen Identifying wounds Lizzie jokes about her syndrome. “I her through every diffi cult situation can eat whatever I want whenever I since then, from bullying to physical want, I get half off prescription for challenges. my glasses and if someone annoys me “Even when it seems like things HEALS ANGRY AFTERMATH I just tell them to stand on my right will never get better in the darkest [blind] side, and it’s like they’re not times, if you have faith and continue Resolving inner wounds even there.” to push yourself, you can eventually But Lizzie has not always been so get through anything,” Lizzie says, can heal Rwanda light hearted about her syndrome. understanding that God made and “I fi rst realized I was different in loves her just as she is. and angry men, says kindergarten,” she explains, recall- “I started to realize my life was in reconciliation worker ing how the fi rst little girl she ever my hands. I could either choose to walked up to looked at her like she make this really good or choose to s a World Vision worker was a monster. make this really bad,” she says. “I John Steward thought Year after year of bullying caused could choose to be grateful for the his 27 years of marriage Lizzie to hate herself and her things I do have and make those the were happy until his wife syndrome. things that defi ne me. I can’t see out announced, “I am running “I thought my little tiny legs and of one eye, and I might get sick a lot, Aout of patience with you – you need my little arms and my tiny face were but I have really nice hair. to work on your attitudes and how John Steward with Dr Habyarimana and Mrs Munyeli, two ugly. I thought I was disgusting. I “Am I going to let the people who you relate to others.” Rwandans who played key roles in the grass roots process, hated when I woke up in the morn- call me a monster defi ne me? Am I A psychologist friend recom- gacaca (loosely translated to “justice amongst the grass”). ing and looked in the mirror getting going to let the people who said ‘kill mended a “Non-Violent Solutions” ready for school. I thought, ‘Can I just it with fi re’ defi ne me? No,” she adds. weekly workshop for up to 50 later John says that in the non- that trusting the God of the Bible scrub this syndrome off? It would What defi nes Lizzie is her con- men that explored the behavioural violent solutions workshop, “I dis- delivered his family from the fear make my life so much easier’.” fi dence, her success, her talent for impact of upbringing, parental covered personal wounds that had that surrounded them. Then one day Lizzie decided she motivational speaking and writing, models and expectations. subconsciously infl uenced me… that “For three years I observed my would no longer let her condition and her faith in Jesus. The workshop taught John so needed to be healed.” parents live their Christian faith much that he now applies his per- He asked his wife every week amongst village people whose lives sonal experience to others, including how she felt and in quietly listening were focused on fear of spirits – and helping mentor Rwandans recover- to her he realised his wounds had it was a stark contrast,” John says. ing from horrifi c genocide. deeply affected his wife, daughters Years later in university John “Observing others’ emotional and acquaintances. began to question what he truly Strength to handle pain “My two false beliefs were healing, and affirming those believed. ‘you cannot trust your feelings’ ● From page 1 changes, provided the foundation “One Easter I was invited to for much of my reconciliation work and ‘strong feelings damage consider: did Jesus die on the cross Christina’s mother Tina said she wanted to be in Rwanda’s recovery from geno- relationships’.” for me? I knew the answer was ‘yes’ strong but wasn’t dealing with Christina’s death cide,” John explains. The group learned about healthy and that I could either choose to well and was completely dependent on Jesus for When he and his wife Sandi fi rst behaviours: openness, respect, time- live for myself or for my Saviour, strength. went to Rwanda in 1997, John out, forgiveness and apology. Jesus Christ. “I don’t have too much to say,” she began before recalls, “The post-genocide situa- John began to consciously iden- “I began to study the Bible in breaking down, as an eyewitness told US maga- tion was a cauldron of fear, anxiety, tify his passive anger as chest order to make choices which led zine. “To anybody who says I’m strong, I want you bitterness, pain, shame, disappoint- tightness, as well as his verbally to a growing faith in Jesus and an to know that I’m the weakest person here, and I ment, shock, uncertainty, poverty aggressive anger, then as quickly adventurous life.” declare my dependence on Jesus Christ because I and confusion.” as possible he verbally discussed After marriage and two daughters don’t have anything else. It’s just so much.” One young woman believed she the root cause with his wife or the John is thankful that God uncovered was responsible for the death of person it involved. the “black seed” that was poisoning Christina was discovered on YouTube in 2010 Christina Grimmie by Brian and Mandy Teefey after they watched her her brother since she believed false “Once I attended to the root cause, his life. cover of Miley Cyrus’ Party in the USA. government radio reports to stay at the negative feeling evaporated. I “Thank God my wife found the Her career took off as she performed in the UNICEF charity concert, sang home rather than fl ee to Burundi. was amazed by how I became lighter courage to tell me what my darkness backup vocals for Selena Gomez & The Scene, performed alongside Taio Cruz In one healing workshop, John in spirit and more able to forgive felt like to her. at the 2011 American Music Awards, and released the EP Find Me in 2011 and recalls asking her, “Did you want the others and myself. It was daunting, “This led me to understand my her album With Love in 2013. killers to come? Did you in any way hard work. My faith was tested, as deep inner wounds, which clouded Her second EP, Side A, was released in February this year, and Christina plan or desire it?” was my commitment to marriage.” my desire to live as a follower of had expressed in interviews her desire to release a second full-length album After answering no, she said, “So Where did John gain this cour- Jesus.” by the end of the year. I am not responsible for the death of age to face up to himself and help a John believes God used the Christina’s cover of the song In Christ Alone was played at the start of the my brother am I?” country fl oundering from a violent changes in his life to bring about memorial. She had posted it on YouTube for Easter 2012 with the accompa- John continues, “The strain on past? amazing transformation in the lives nying caption: “Owl City’s cover of this inspired me to sing this for you guys. her face began to dissolve. After the John says the answer is his faith of many Rwandans. ● Easter is one of my faaaaaavorite holidays! Jesus Christ is my Lord and Saviour workshop her mum said, ‘You’re in the Lord Jesus Christ. Read more about John’s work and and I’m not at all ashamed of it.” ● coming alive.’” As a child living in Java with his his book From Genocide to Generosity Like this young woman, years missionary parents John realised at www.2live4give.org Edition 394 11 Family  finance FATHER'S LOVE AND AFFIRMATION IS VITAL

BY ROB FURLONG You can hear the pain that it Waiting for him to come home. UPCYCLING: MAKE IT caused Meece through his song, My father's chair, sat in an empty YOUR BUSINESS SINGER-SONGWRITER David When I was Seventeen: room Meece has produced some profoundly My daddy left home when I was a My father's chair, covered with A hobby can be made into a moving songs over his long career, kid sheets of gloom successful business venture in a many of them telling the story about Said he had to move on My father's chair through all the few easy steps, writes Jen Vuk his struggles with his self-worth. He took the bottle as his only friend years ‘Upcycling’ seems to be the word If you have ever attended a Meece I didn't know why, I didn't know why And all the tears I cried in vain of the moment, but it can also be concert you will know that he inter- No one was there in my father's much more than a passing hobby. sperses his music with deeply per- Mama tried to do the best that she chair. If seen in the right light, upcycling, sonal illustrations about growing up could which is basically converting used or in a family with an alcoholic father. But she just didn't understand Sometimes at night I dream of a waste materials into new materials One of the most powerful of these All the confusion I was feeling inside throne is when he tells of the night that his I didn't know why, I didn't know why Of my loving God, calling me home or products of better quality, is also a great business opportunity. father, in a drunken rage, drove the Feeling so alone And as I appear, He rises and smiles family car through the wall of David’s How I wish back then I'd known And reaches with love to welcome Classic upcycled products include bedroom. When I was seventeen His child designer handbags decorated His father staggered out of the Never to cry, never to fear with old chocolate wrappers, soft From study hall to the senior prom wreckage, held a shotgun to David’s In His arms, safe and secure. drink tops or even old seat belts; I felt like no one at all head, stared into his eyes and said, or jewellery fashioned out of old And just a shadow in a crowded My Father's chair sits in a royal “You’re worthless…” buttons or washers. room room When David Meece recounts this I didn't know why, I didn't know why My Father's chair holds glory An upcycling business is ideal for story he points out that those words David Meece beyond the tomb those entrepreneurs interested in were more devastating to him than David Meece carried the scars My Father's chair, my God is there working from home. had his father actually pulled the of his father’s deadly words for years He discovered he wasn’t worthless And I am His eternal heir Here are a few handy tips to help trigger. and despite his fame and success as a but precious in God’s eyes. Someday I'll share my Father's chair. musician, they crippled him. He discovered what many others get you started: Study after study reiterates that a And many of you reading this col- have discovered – that God loved him WHAT’S YOUR INTEREST? father’s love and affi rmation is vital umn right now can relate to Meece’s for who he was and that He called for the healthy emotional develop- Perhaps the  rst thing to do is to pain. him “son”. ment of a child. hone your interest. What exactly is But then something brought a David Meece discovered that God Many of us understand the feeling your area of expertise? Do you like radical change to Meece’s heart. He was his Father and that he would of being abandoned by our natural sewing or crafting? Or is recycling discovered the deep, deep love that never be rejected by Him. fathers. furniture more your thing? Or, God had for Him. In his song, My Father’s Chair, And the scars and pain of this loss perhaps, you have an eye for fashion he contrasts the love of his Father can be carried well into our adult and know how to turn that dowdy God with the abandonment that he years. felt from his earthly father: 1980s out t into something more But here is good news! modern? The point is to  nd your Sometimes at night I'd lie awake God longs to be your heavenly talent and stick to it. How can I become Longing inside for my father's embrace Father and when you turn to Him in IS THERE A MARKET? Sometimes at night I'd wander simple trust and faith, He accepts you a Christian? downstairs as a treasured son or daughter. Once you’ve worked out your area And pray he'd returned, but no one was You can be His much loved son of expertise then it’s time to look Anyone can gain the eternal life of ered though Jesus Christ there. or daughter –now that is reason to where to place it. Try to identify a gap We read in God’s word: “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, Oh, how I'd cry, a child all alone celebrate this Father’s Day! ● in the market that you can tap into. that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16) Put your personal spin on your own line of products, maybe for pets or OUR Separation from God children’s bedrooms, for instance. PROBLEM: “Everyone has sinned. Nobody is good enough because ADMIT God’s standards are perfect” (Romans 3:23) Computers DO SOME SHORT COURSES Before you begin it’s always a good Jesus died on the cross GOD’S & Technology idea to do a few short courses. Small- REMEDY / “God demonstrates His own love for us in this; while we SOLUTION: were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) BVEELIE business courses give you the skills FREE VIRTUAL REALITY ‘FIELD TRIP’ you need to set up, manage, market Trust Jesus by receiving Him and run all kinds of operations. If you “To all who received Him, to those who believed in OUR BY DARRYL BUDGE His name, He gave the right to become children don’t have the time to commit to RESPONSE: of God” (John 1:12) COMMIT onsite learning, there are a number Google’s Expeditions app (Android only of online courses available. for now) is now freely available so you can Here is an example of how you can pray. MAKE A BUSINESS PLAN make a virtual visit to the Great Barrier Reef, “Lord Jesus, I need You now. Please forgive me for my sins. Italy’s Verona and even Mars, among over 2000 It’s important to prepare a business I open the door of my life and receive You as my Saviour and Lord. locations. Cardboard viewer plan when starting or growing your Thankyou for loving me so much that You died on the cross for me. The 360-degree virtual tours are fun without business and review it regularly Take control of my life. Make me the person You created me to be. Amen” Cardboard or another VR viewer, but it is certainly a more real experience if you to keep it up to date, because a The Lord Jesus says: “I tell you the truth. Everyone who believes in me have one. business plan allows you to set out has eternal life.” (John 6:47). He gives life of a wonderful quality that continues forever. The Expeditions app was initially designed for a teacher to take their whole your goals and objectives, and also AS A NEXT STEP : class on a peer-to-peer synced virtual  eld trip, using dozens of cheap Android chart where the business is going. phones, $5 Cardboard VR viewers and a ‘tour guide’ tablet. Over a million If you prayed If you have NOT prayed Before writing your business students from 11 countries have been on such virtual expeditions in the past the above prayer, the prayer at this plan, consider the need to research tick this box stage, tick this box year. your idea, your competitors and Locations include Antarctica, Machu Pichu, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, The Great Wall I have prayed I would like to of China, the Congo, and many US National Parks. You can also explore human the marketplace. Look online for this prayer. think about this. anatomy (like a less colourful “The Magic School Bus”) and the careers of a few examples of business plans as well as Please send me: Please send me: accomplished artists. free templates. Bible More information as I am inquiring Other free family-safe apps for 360-degree experiences are YouTube, Fulldive GET BUSY about being a Christian. Some ‘starting off ’ literature VR, Orbulus, Titans of Space, Volvo Reality, and Roller Coaster VR. Take the plunge and practise I have a problem (see at ached let er) Information on a helpful church Classrooms also have on anything and everything. The a new Google Cast for more you practise, the better you’ll * Please tick and write clearly * Education app available be. Making mistakes is a big part for Chrome browsers, of learning and it also helps you Name ______which enables teachers  nd your own style and grow in and students to share Address ______con dence. their screens on a HDMI- Phone ______equipped screen via a Remember, we’re often our own worst critics, but chances are there’s Age and occupation (it helps) ______Google Cast Wi-Fi dongle (approx. $50). Schools a niche market out there lying in wait Challenge Literature Fellowship Fax (08) 9453 3006 or email that use inexpensive for your unique product. What have PO Box 978, Cloverdale WA 6985 [email protected] Google Chromebooks you got to lose? ● All overseas enquiries are referred onto someone in their own country will  nd this extremely Used with permission. This article  rst appeared Students using cardboard viewers in the Salvation Army’s Warcry magazine. useful. ● WORLD RECORD FALLS

“Jesus did it,” says South African 400 RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - metre victor AUGUST 14, 2016: Wayde van Niekerk of South Africa competes in the Men’s 400m  nal at the Rio Olympic Games. (Photo Patrick Smith/Getty Images) outh African Men’s 400m keep on pushing, and … I just dove star when Bolt retires. dogs one of these days.” Olympic gold medallist for the fi nish line.” “I went on my knees each and Wayde’s personal best in the BELOW: van Niekerk beside sprinter Wayde van Niekerk Wayde won convincingly in the every day and I told the Lord to take 100m is 9.98 seconds, making him the results board after breaking broke a 17-year-old world time of 43.03 seconds, breaking care of me every step of the way – I the fi rst man in history to run under the world record in the Men’s record, but if you ask him: Michael Johnson’s record, and even wrote it down on my spikes,” 10 seconds for the 100m race, under 400m  nal. (Photo Olivier S“Jesus did it”. gaining the high praise – and said Wayde in a track-side television 20 seconds for the 200m race and Morin/AFP/Getty Images) The 24-year-old, who friends say embrace – of Jamaican sprinting interview with BBC Sport in which under 44 seconds for the 400m race. is humble, friendly, and decent, legend Usain Bolt. he held up his running shoes to show Wayde’s 74-year-old coach, Anna 1960 has been working with Wayde won despite qualifying fi fth-fastest “The only thing I can do now is the words “Jesus I am all yours, use Botha, was exuberant in her reaction for three years. for the fi nal and being relegated to give God praise,” said Wayde me”. to his victory but was unable to get Of the comparison to Bolt, Wayde to the dreaded outside lane, where moments after millions around the Speaking of the importance of his onto the track to congratulate him, said: “I am grateful and blessed he couldn’t see any of the other world watched as he bowed in prayer faith, he said he values it because as security offi cials did not believe to be surrounded by such great runners. after the race. God “is the one who blessed me the white haired great-grandmother sports people of my generation and Being in lane eight may actually “I asked the Lord to carry me with talent”. was who she claimed! Botha, who I am just grateful to be where I am have helped him though, as he told through the race and I’m really, He previously told sports media has been coaching athletics since today.” ● reporters in Rio he was convinced really blessed and grateful for this organisation Passion for Sport that someone would chase him down. opportunity,” said the University “everything that comes my way I “I thought someone was going to of the Free State student who thank the Lord.” He said: “I leave catch me, because I felt very alone commentators – including Johnson every race and every step I take and I was like, ‘What’s going on?’ – immediately began speculating in His hands. I trust Him in every “It gave me so much motivation to could become the next big athletics movement I do.” After the race he tweeted his thanks with the words “God is power” and “Jesus did it” in an attached graphic. Wayde was the flag bearer for South Africa at the Games’ opening ceremony, and flew 10 members of his family to Rio to watch him compete, including his girlfriend Chesney Campbell, 24, his grandparents and parents. Bolt, who is also a vocal Jesus- follower, congratulated Wayde track-side and 20 minutes later went on to make history as he won his third, successive 100m Olympic title. The two did not compete against each other at Rio as Wayde, despite being the South African champion at 200m, elected not to enter that race in his fi rst Olympics. “My favourite event is the 200m, to be honest with you,” Wayde told Sports Illustrated, when asked if he’d like to take on Bolt.

“I’d love to race one day, when I’m DISTRIBUTED BY: big. These are guys that inspire me, that keep me competing; the same RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - AUGUST 15, 2016: Wayde van Niekerk like with the guys in the 400m. I’d celebrates winning the gold medal for the men’s 400m at the Rio even love to run 100m with the big Print Post Approved 10001398. Published by Challenge Literature Fellowship (Aust.) Inc. of PO Box 978, Olympic Games. (Photo Johannes Eisele/AFP/Getty Images) Cloverdale WA 6985. Ph (08) 9453 3311. Fax (08) 9453 3006. Email: [email protected] - Printed 09/2016