Chris and Linda Wallis

Induction

2010-12-15T21:30:00.000Z

It was such a fantastic time on the afternoon of the 12th December, at my induction, conducted by Geoff Feasey.

There were 65-80 people present a large proportion of which were ministers and leaders of the various places of worship in St Ives and the surrounding areas. In Geoff Feaseys own words in his 25 years of conducting induction services he has never seen such representation welcoming a new Elim minister into service in an area.

The service provided a wonderful opportunity to explain our vision to work cross denominationally in developing a youth mentoring scheme and regular events to see young ministers come into their full potential serving the community as well as the church. We are also continuing to develop a cross denominational unity in prayer and evangelism.

Generous people are such a blessing to a community

2010-09-27T06:19:00.002Z

The wonderful people of The Vine church in St. Ives amazed me again. Many of them are living on limited means but bought together an incredible amount of food to be given away to the poor in our communities.

Prov 11:25 he generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.NKJV

We looked at the line in Isaiah 61:1 which says to preach good news to the poor, and how Jesus linked this with the miraculous works of giving sight, hearing, the ability to walk, and raising the dead in his response to John the Baptist's question in Matthew 11. Jesus as powerfully met the needs of the poor, as he did the needs of the blind, deaf, lame and dead, by preaching to the poor. He was clothed with an empowering work of the Holy Spirit to empower people to escape the poverty created by their physical state and their mindset. Are we convinced, that God wants to make us prosperous to be generous, or do we live with a poverty spirit?

Clothe us Lord with a mindset that empowers us and helps those to whom You send us to proclaim the good news to the poor and see their economical, emotional, physical and spiritual state radically changed.

Meditate - we need to accept this word

2010-09-13T06:30:00.002Z

Having just preached in the Ukraine on Romans 12:2, I am saddened at how the enemy has taken hold of a Biblical word and conformed peoples minds to think that it means something bad because it is associated with yoga and new age and all sorts of demonic practices.

Just look up the word meditate in your Bible and take hold of the principle of chewing over the Word and works of God. How else can we be transformed by the renewing of our minds other than dwell on the realities of His word and works and taking our minds off the circumstances and experiences that we go through which our contrary to the will of God.

Reclaim the practice of meditating on the Almighty.

Licence to Minister

2010-09-13T06:24:00.002Z

Dear Friends

Thank you for all the support I have recieved as I have completed the Elim Regional Training Programme over the last 18 months, and pastored the church through the transition. There has been growth and pruning in membership but I pray the next phase will be one of steady and sustained growth.

I went for my interview with Elims Ministerial Selection Board on the 2nd September and am now pleased to say they have issued me with a license to minister in our local fellowship.

Your continued prayers as we move forward would be most appreciated.

WHo is the reason for the season?

2009-12-25T19:31:00.002Z

Yes Jesus is the reason for this season, and may we never take Christ out of Christmas despite all the efforts of the PC brigade to change things.

HOWEVER, I am so pleased that YOU are the reason for the season. Without YOU being in the Fathers plan He would never have sent Jesus to be constrained by a womb, born as a baby, lived, died and rose again. He gave up EVERYTHING for you what will you give up for Him.

Have a blessed celebration of what He has done just for YOU.

New Year Messages & Series

2009-12-22T20:47:00.002Z

We are expectant of a year of restoration and acceleration during 2010, both personally and as a fellowship at the Vine. It seems God is saying similar things to other people around the globe, I have posted Ivan and Isobel Allums prophetic greetings on the church site accessible by clicking on the words in the picture of the home site at www.thevine-stives.org.uk

As I have waited on the Lord I sense He wants us to concentrate in first two months of this year on Building Healthy Relationships with Him, the family and the community, this will form the base of our Sunday messages from mid January. In tandem to this we will be running a Marriage Course, A Young Mens Cell focus on Lust, and our Homegroups will be following John Ortbergs study "God is Closer then you think"

We will see the development of a Youth Church in the early months after letting Ray and Becky settle in and build up relationships.

Exciting things are ahead of us.

Building Healthy Relationships

2009-12-19T19:50:00.001Z

Whose relationships should we imitate to have the most healthy community?

Hanukkah 2009 All Age Service Video

2009-12-15T17:50:00.001Z

Hanukkah - Feast of Dedication & Festival of Lights

2009-12-08T22:35:00.003Z

Yes Hanukkah starts Friday evening 11th November and we will remember why the Lord Jesus celebrated this non prescribed festival on Sunday 13th.

The Light of the World came into our darkness and turned us all into lights to bring a revelation of Gods mercy wherever we go.

This feast is known both as the Festival of Lights as it celebrates the miracle of the oil for the menorah at the rededication of the temple under Judah Maccabees, but is special to us also as the Feast of Dedication.

When you think about how passionate Jesus was about keeping the earthly temple dedicated to its purpose of being a place that should bring revelation of the God to the world, and also the place of prayer to commune with Him, we need to be as passionate about purging our bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Its a time to turn over the tables in our lives that have taken residence in His temple. The driving out of that which distracts us from shedding light and communing with the Father.

I love the fact that during this feast each Jewish home would place their menorahs in the windows to proclaim to the enemy that light has overcome the darkness which he tried to establish in the tabernacles.

Shine for Jesus and make the enemy nervous about the supernatural oil burning in your spirit.

Thankfulness ensures you remain in His will.

2009-11-29T20:32:00.002Z

1 Thess 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. NKJV

Give thanks to the Lord for HE IS GOOD

(add your sentence of thanks)

for His Mercy Endures Forever.

Practice doing this over and over again and write a new psalm as you go. Scribe down your psalm of thanks. He has done so much for you, you should be at this for a long time.

At the end of the exercise I believe any downheartedness will disappear.

Fork Handles Candlelight Carol Service

2009-11-26T22:41:00.002Z

Do you remember that classic sketch of the two Ronnies "Fork Handles"? If not you can view it on Youtube and laugh again, or come to our Candlelight Carol Service and watch part of it at the start.

Yes, we are going to mount four candles on top of fork handles to light up the service venue. Just for fun, and just to confirm as discussed at the ministers together meeting, there is no theological significance at all.

Why not invite some neighbours, or get one of the posters and put it up in a local public place close to you. Or email a link to this page to someone. Please.

Sunday 20th December 6pm at St Ives Infant School.

His Mercy is Equal to His Holiness

2009-11-26T22:09:00.004Z

Consider the detailed description that the Father gives to Moses for the construction of the Ark of Covenant and the Mercy Seat in Exodus 25:10-22

The representation of Jesus in the actual Ark, the containment of the symbols of Promise, Provision and Protection in the Testimony Tablets, the Jar of Manna, and Aarons Rod.

A reminder of the freedom given to all in obedience to His divine order for godly community life. His nature to provide for all His people. His anointed chosen leadership for our protection. Only Jesus could contain all of these within His human form, the completion of law, provision and protection.

We are like the poles of the ark, covered in His glory and anointed to carry His character and nature, the very symbol of His Presence whereever we go.

The contents of the ark not only remind us of His Holiness and His standards, they remind us of mans repeated rebellion and failure to attain Gods perfect design. Yet equal in size to the ark is the Mercy Seat the place where His Presence tangibly manifested to the Israelites. Not one inch smaller, or one inch larger, is Gods Mercy than His Holiness, and because of His incredible Mercy we can come to His Presence.

Preparing for His Presence

2009-10-30T19:40:00.002Z

We are about to start the next series that Father has laid on my heart for The Vine. As always I amazed at the way He links things together across many streams of His church that we relate too. He is incredible.

On Thursday we listened to Dick Reuben at Cell Groups do a brilliant teaching in "Trespass Offerings" and how we as a kingdom of priests still need to deal with the trespass offering.

Oh boy were we challenged, but also blessed in the knowledge of His love towards us that He wants to perfect us and prepare us for a greater flow of anointing and position us to host His Presence.

Don't forget that many of the messages are available as a podcast from the church web site.

Divine Encounters

2009-10-30T13:45:00.002Z

We have just completed a series of messages on DIVINE ENCOUNTERS.

We looked at how Divine Encounters change people
Change our beliefs
Change our behaviour
Change our attitudes, and
Change our lifestyle

When we have had an encounter these changes should be evident in our lives. Everyone who has met the Jesus will have made a choice to change and the choice should be evident.

We are also the agents of Divine Encoutners for those that we meet, and these encounters should also bring about changes in the lives of others.

We do not hear these words so often today = REPENT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NEAR - however it is a truth that we should declare (perhaps in different words) but the Kingdom of God is near because the KING is in each one of us. As an agent we should be presenting the opportunity for people to meet Jesus and change (REPENT). Our fear of man, our fear of appearing judgemental stops us using such language, BUT repentance (change) is vital for the extension of His kingdom.

Rejection determines your Destiny

2009-07-30T18:20:00.002Z

Last Sunday 26th July I completed our series of Celebrate Recovery for church members with a message entitled "Rejection determines your destiny". Along with my own testimony and that of many others this message was inspired by Paul Scanlon of Abundant Life who has a podcast of the same title.

If you wish to listen to the message you can visit our church website www.thevine-stives.org.uk or click on the following link to play the podcast
http://www.thevine-stives.org.uk/podcasts/rejection%20determines%20your%20destiny.mp3

Defeating Giants

2009-07-05T22:35:00.003Z

There are many giants that we face each day, things that we have to overcome and remove from that intimidating position in our lives. The giants may be fears, sins, habits, lifestyles that hound occassionally or everyday. They stand like a Goliath in our brains telling us we are small and incapable of overcoming him. Our health could be a giant as we take a nosedive, loose enery, loose hope, uncertaintity enters our minds and faith levels can drop. We need to do a David and take a small smooth stone, a little verse of scripture, which reminds us that HE IS THE LORD THAT HEALS and fill our minds with the truth. Or maybe its a difficulty in marriage which we would sooner get out of than face, and we have to remind ourselves that NO MAN CAN PUT ASSUNDER what God has joined together. Or perhaps the giant is loneliness and we need to slay him with the certainity that JESUS IS WITH US UNTIL THE END OF THE AGE.

Whatever the giant, there is a little verse (if not a whole book full of little verses) that we can sling at the giants temple and see him tumble.

I cannot give you five stones but I can give you a visual aid to help you develop a tactic to deal with your giant. It comes from Max Lucado's book Facing your Giants. Hold up your hand and there you have five reminders.

Use the stone of the PAST (Thumb - its big so are Gods victories) - recount Gods victories in your life and others from the past. Carve the victories in stone, scratch the defeats in the sand.

From the thumb to the first finger, trace the line from tip to tip. The stone of PRAYER. Just like David did you have to go through the valley to get to the giant. Your giant may appear more intimidating from the low points, but on our knees our focus is on God not the giant. Go low and you can climb the hill to face the giant with Gods strategy.

The tallest finger reminds us of the stone of PRIORITY. When our priority is God. When our priority is the reputation of God as revealed in our lives, we must face our giant and defeat it for His reputation is at stake. People will look at us, like they looked at the Israelites cowering in front of Goliath, and say their God has forsaken them. They have no faith.

The ring finger reminds us of the stone of PASSION. We are married to Christ. Our passion to be a pure bride should stir us to run like David to defeat our giants, to get rid of all that would mess up our intimate relationship with Him

The little finger reminds us of the stone of PERSEVERENCE. It will take more than one prayer, more than one day of abstinence, more than one attempt, to defeat a giant. It took a long time for that giant to come into your life and dominate your thinking. One stone could be enough, but be as prepared as David with more than one stone, and fight to the end. Gods word will destroy the giants in your life.

FOCUS ON THE GIANT AND YOU WILL STUMBLE

FOCUS ON GOD AND YOUR GIANT WILL TUMBLE.

G8 Prayer Summit in Italy

2009-07-05T22:22:00.003Z

Chris will be at a prayer gathering by the G8 summit in Italy during the next week. If you would like to pray take a look at the church website through the following link for the issued prayer topics.

Prayer Topics

All Age Puppet Show in July

2009-07-05T22:20:00.005Z

Well here is our second video of part of the All Age service on the 5th July. Josh and Linda do a great job in reporting the story of David and Goliath through our puppets.

24 Hours of Prayer for St Ives

2009-06-29T21:35:00.008Z

Friday 3rd July sees the start of what will become a regular 24 hours of prayer for St Ives by churches working together for the coming of Gods kingdom to this town. If you are not already signed up for an hours slot just come along, it will be fantastic.

The Croft

2009-06-21T18:44:00.005Z

This could be our potential meeting place for church? What is God saying?

Sorry the indoor lighting was not sufficient for good video recording. It looks like we may have missed this opportunity, so God has something better or He is going to give us access to use this building in another way.

Are you ready? Even if the rapture occurs during a church meeting?

2009-06-21T17:55:00.005Z

The safest place to experience the rapture is not in church.

The way you will suddenly feel when everyone else around you has gone will be ----- SHOCK AND HORROR

The safest place to experience the rapture is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, determined to become more like Him pursuing holiness.

Nobodies who become somebodies

2009-06-21T17:17:00.005Z

Today is Fathers Day and we remember the impact our fathers have had on our lives and characters. In the message today we looked at the story of Benaiah in 1 Chronicles 11:22-25. He was a man of great valour who seems to have arrived from nowhere to become the captain of Davids bodyguard. He was no match for the 3 who risked their lives to get water for David, but he achieved some incredible feats killing a lion in a snowy pit, felling a 7'6" Egyptian with his walking stick, killing two Moabite warriors. David undoubtedly looked for other characteristics like servant heart, loyalty, reliability and possibly other stories of his valour before making the appointment. But the fact is, he was a man of valour.

Benaiah in Hebrew means "son of the Lord" and like most Hebrew names described the character of the person. His father, an inspiring man of valour also, Jehoiada's name meant "Knowledge of the Lord", how else would a man have incredible strength and courage? They came from Kabzeel, meaning "the congregation of God". What a perfect description of those who are able to do great exploits for the kingdom - children of God, knowing the Lord, a congregation (an army) of the living God. Thats you and me brothers and sisters, we see bones He sees and army (to coin the phrase from a book title).

Benaiah did not gain his strength from his earthly Father, he may have been inspired by him, but he would have had to develop his strength and battle skills by exercise. We too must exercise our spiritual battle skills, developing stored power (strenght) in our spiritual muscles to that power (released strength) can be manifest when we fight those "principalities and powers" that we face day by day. We have a Father in heaven who inspires, empowers, and encourages to do exploits for His kingdom, we practice those skills within the congregation of God. We do our Bible and prayer exercises with our disciplers and those we are discipling. We practice winning battles together, helping each other to grow in strength, helping each other to manifest the power of His might. In our practice we do not intend to injure each other, but lets be honest we will accidently scratch or wound one another. A wrong scripture applied at the wrong time, a word of reproof without the recipient knowing the depth of your love, a smear on their armour of righteousness because of rubbing up against our sin. This is practice ground, the congregation of God, disciples are committed to help each other grow (right? yes they are). Benaiah, probably received the occassional injury in his practice battles, maybe a strained muscle in his exercises, it was all preparation for his destiny.

Benaiah had a great father, we have an awesome Father, we were once weak nobodies, but in Christ we are SOMEBODY who will extend the kingdom of God. Reveal the power of God that is stored within you, resist the powers at work in the world, share the gospel in word and action.

Are you battle ready? MIGHTY WARRIOR

Global Day of Prayer

2009-05-31T18:52:00.003Z

Yet another fantastic day of international prayer continues to reveal Holy Spirit's move to create in the midst of global chaos. Unprecedented times provide the exact environment of Pentecost for a SUDDENLY of God. Global economic meltdown, terrorist activity, political ineptitude etc etc. Even though much of what is happening is probably being engineered to riase a level of fear to pave the way for a one world order and the revelation of the antichrist, it still provides an opportunity for the "glory of God to cover the earth just as the waters cover the sea".

Yes this is the time when the global body of Christ should show the love of Christ in united prayer, repentance and action. Such united love and powerful prayer is just one part of the revelation of the glory of God. What will we see next? Yes more signs and wonders following the preaching of the Word, and more opposition from the enemy.

What will Holy Spirit do with you, through you, and in you in the next year? As much as you are willing to let Him do.

Pastor at The Vine

2009-05-25T08:13:00.004Z

Well it has finally happened, thirty eight years after the call, The Vine, Elim Church in St Ives has voted to present me as their candidate to be pastor at The Vine. Their love and overwhelming majority support is so humbling, and Gods patient development of us (and we know He has not finished) is incredible.

We are greatly blessed seeing people return to The Vine and new fruit, and we are only in our second week since the vote, although God has been doing some incredible things over the last couple of months fulfilling the promise of Zechariah 8.

The challenge continues to grow as we focus on priorities and commit ourselves to see people grow to their fulness in Christ. We are about to start our third cell/home group, and the rolling out of discipleship using Celebrate Recovery as a model is exciting.

As we pray and seek Gods purpose for a younger generation to join the church we ponder the possibilities of running parrallel meetings for the 13-25 year age group. We were only dreaming last week and then much blessed by 6 returning teenagers this Sunday along with a much swelled congregation by bank holiday visitors. He will build His church and we want to hear His clear directions so join us in prayer.

Our links with Fore Street Methodist and the Salvation Army continue to strengthen and we are expectant to see God use this for the extension of His kingdom in this area. Rodney is a good brother in Christ and will help keep me focussed.

Our desire for a building increases with the level of excitement felt in the fellowship. Our financial need is significant but He is the great provider. We will seek His purpose for a stepping stone to establish ourselves further into the heart of the community.

Watch this space. God is GREAT.

The Vine will bear Fruit

2009-03-17T09:29:00.005Z

Zech 8:12
12'For the seed shall be prosperous,The vine shall give its fruit,The ground shall give her increase,NKJV

The whole of Zechariah 8 is a fantastic revelation of Gods heart towards His people Israel. At this moment in the life of The Vine I believe it is also a word for us.

As our hearts desire is to see growth (v12a), revival (12b), a removal of curses (v13), children (v5), honesty and righteous justice (v16) and a bringing back of people from north, south, east and west (v7).

There will be an incredible return of prodigals to the Vine, and a supernatural establishment of new fruit, and new wine in our midst.

My Father's heart towards all His people is to bring about the fullness of restoration. Pray it in. Speak it out.

Prostitute changes her red light for red cord?

2009-03-13T14:12:00.004Z

Rahab was a convert I believe. Once a harlot, always remembered as a harlot, possibly even tempted to return to her old ways after the capture of Jericho.

But a woman of faith who the book of Hebrews tells us lead to her protection when the walls fell. Part of the lineage of Jesus. A woman who could truely CELEBRATE her RECOVERY.

On her roof enough flax to hide the spies in Joshua 2, used for making cloth, not a normal occupation for a prostitute? With enough red cord to let the spies down 30 feet or more from the window. A red cord in those days was put in the wash with the fabric to transfer the dye. Enough flax to hide spies, enough cord to dye a considerable amount of cloth, tells me this woman was a conversion to faith who followed through with a change of profession.

No more red lights (if ever they used such techniques to advertise), just red cords to show a change of heart.

Staying ahead - what ails you sea that you fled?

2009-03-11T21:30:00.003Z

Well here we go again, about to cross over into something completely new and challenging. Time to reflect on the lessons from Joshua and personal ones from the past.

The key to taking people with you is to stop in front carrying the "ark" the Lord's word with you. So the challenge for the leaders I am working with is to be soaked in the word of God, knowing His direction and stopping in front. Now is the time to put our feet in our Jordan, our opportunity for change, and to see God part the water.

I love Psalm 114's rendition of the parting waters of the Red Sea and the Jordan - "What ails you Sea that you fled, and Jordan that you turned back". What made these waters part when Moses raised his rod, and the priests put their feet in the water? Was it their actions, their faith, their obedience to God? Partly, because they responded to Gods direction but the amazing truth is God stepped into the scene.

Can you imagine the waters being startled by the Presence of God that they fled and made a path for Him to walk through. The psalmist implies that this is what happened as he encourages the earth, all the natural elements, and mankind - TO TREMBLE - at the Presence of the Lord.

Our prayer for this time in the churches and our personal life is know Gods awesome presence that the very obstacles to our crossing will tremble and flee. AMEN.

What are you sowing?

2009-02-08T19:54:00.003Z

The way we think, the way we act, and our very character determines our destiny. We need to spend more time examining our thought processes and habits.

This is a very wise saying

Sow a thought, reap an action;

Sow an action, reap a habit;

Sow a habit, reap a character;

Sow a character, reap a destiny.

-Samuel Smiles

Soaking Prayer

2008-11-08T18:24:00.003Z

Yes we have held our first Soaking Prayer session, and we will do more. We are seeking God for more opportunities and a more conducive venue. The bigger house that the Lord has promised us would come in handy.

As we soaked the individuals that came we had many manifestations, visions and experiences that are truly God. Isn't it amazing how when you are tired and all the things you plan to do fall apart how God turns up.

Meditation

2008-11-08T18:07:00.006Z

This is my first attempt at posting a video this is a great one for watching and imagining the Spirit bubbling up from deep within. Ask Jesus how powerful is the flow that it is deep within.

Quiet yourself down, fix your eyes on Jesus, tune into the flow of Holy Spirit, and write down the revelation you receive in the process.

My thanks to Youtube where I found this I cannot find it again to give credit to the creator of the video I will continue searching and update this blog asap.

Have fun.

Miracles do not create faith?

2008-11-08T17:52:00.003Z

Miracles do not create faith, they may raise an interest, they even create a hunger for more miracles/manifestations of Gods presence. Faith comes from hearing the Word and responding. Faith is a response to Gods sowing a seed in our hearts.

Miracles are like watching fireworks on bonfire night. After you have seen one fantastic burst you are hungry to see another, you want MORE.

There is nothing wrong with wanting MORE. Hunger for more of Gods power to be manifest in and amongst us is as natural as being hungry for food. It is an inbuilt response to a basic need for human survival. Hunger for more of Gods power is a natural inbuilt response for spiritual survival.

Jesus found that crowds followed Him because He met their needs, he healed them, He fed them, He delivered them. In John 6 He challenges them with the work true work of God that they needed to do was to believe in Him who has sent Jesus. An active faith that believed in all that God had done for them and taught them, looking to the heart of God rather than the hand of God. I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE, they were called to find spiritual sustenance out of faith that would lead them to eternal life. Yes He meets our practical and physical needs but His primary work is to present us to His Father, raised up and whole on that great day.

So if you are chasing revival like me, what are you chasing? Earthly provision, or eternal change.

Be strong in the Lord

2008-08-31T13:56:00.004Z

Eph 6:10-11
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand again.

Strength is stored power. If our muscles are developed they have built up strength, it is stored in them, but we do not see this revealed until we use them

Power is the manifestation of the strength we have stored.

For many of us our spiritual muscles are constantly being exercised, the strength we have in store has been built by many hours of reading Gods word, talking to Him in prayer, listening to Him, fasting and being obedient to what He asks us to do. However, we can be so busy exercising our muscles that they become fatigued. There is nothing left in the store?

Perhaps that why athletes pace themselve. Perhaps thats why God commands rest. Perhaps thats why soaking (doing nothing whilst in His presence other than receive), is so important to us fulfiling this encouragement to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

What would the local Body of Christ look like if it exercised and rested a little more?

When the enemy lies in the gate.

2008-08-26T20:41:00.002Z

Judg 16:2-3 When the Gazites were told, "Samson has come here!" they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the gate of the city. They were quiet all night, saying, "In the morning, when it is daylight, we will kill him." 3 And Samson lay low till midnight; then he arose at midnight, took hold of the doors of the gate of the city and the two gateposts, pulled them up, bar and all, put them on his shoulders, and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron. NKJV

There are sometimes low points in our spiritual walk and the enemy lies in wait at the very gates of our opportunity for moving forward to kill and destroy. The very gates he thinks are his to make decisions about our lives. The very gates which he thinks keeps us locked in our sin. The very gates where his tax collectors wait to take reward for the trade we have committed in his territory. He has a right? They are his gates we have passed through and entered his territory?

But like Samson, our role is to storm the gates of the enemy and remove them from keeping us captive, destroying us, reminding us of our faults. By the power of the Spirit within us we can pull up those gates and remove them to a distant place. We can even do this even whilst he lay there waiting for us to emerge, he can be caught totally by surprise especially when the Spirit moves upon us.

Go on storm the gates. We have discussed the importance of gates of opportunity the Lord has for us this year, which we need to take by force. We can also remove the gates of destruction with the same force in which we are empowered to take the kingdom.

The Anointing Does Not Depend on YOU

2008-08-16T18:10:00.007Z

What a relief to know that the flow of the anointing from God in whatever you do, does not depend on you.

The most anointed person I know, Jesus, could not do any great works in His home town (Except lay His hands on a few sick people and heal them - wow as if that isn't remarkable). He was anointed enough to heal everyone but their hunger was insufficient.

Similarly at the Pool of Bethesda where some scholars reckon lay 10's of thousands of sick and lame people, Jesus found one man who had been lame for 38 years in whom He presumably determined there was enough hunger, enough imagination, enough faith to see himself walk if only he was helped, and helped he was.

As we watch the incredible healings in Lakeland we see thousands of sick, lame, death, blind, mute, cancer bound people attending. Many receive healing others do not. Does God want to heal everyone, of course He does. Is now the acceptable time? Of course it is. Do we as His followers have the same power to heal everyone and raise the dead. Absolutely, the same Holy Spirit lives and works through me as He did Jesus. Do I see everyone healed? Not yet, but soon.

I am not totally in tune to God to see and know everything He is doing, and to follow His every prompting.

But thats all about healing. What about being anointed to speak His words to our brothers and sisters, or our neighbours and work colleagues. What about giving prophecy, words of knowledge. What about doing being anointed to do acts of kindness. Is that all dependant on my sensitivity to what God is doing and saying. PARTLY, but it is also a lot to do with the hunger of those we are led to minister too, as to whether the power will flow. Jesus only did what He saw the Father doing so He went on His most "unsuccessful" , crusade to Nazareth, and they did not receive Him. The Pharisees likewise often did not receive Him even though He spoke the most anointed words to them.

I highlighted the fact that Jesus laid his HANDS on the sick earlier. Isn't it strange how often we just place one hand on a person for prayer and believe for a ZAP of Gods power. Do you think, we should lay BOTH hands on them and see the power that is within us flow through their bodies from one hand to the other, like plugging in both pins to the socket. I wonder if placing one hand on a person is why you sometimes feeled drain as the virtue flows out, rather than through?

Many, many questions, but I hope thought provoking, and relieving. We are the power house of God and I just pray that we will not beat ourselves up when we do not see immediate results. Its not dependant solely on us, but on Him and on those He sends us to serve.

Sitting in the Gate

2008-06-21T08:20:00.003Z

When you look at this picture of an old Castle Gate it does not conjure up the importance of gates, and particularly of gates in Biblical times.

Gates were not only the point of entrance and exit to the city, but the place where important decisions and judgements are made. The Lord is stirring something within me about the significance of taking my place in the gateways, not just because we live at Castle Gate in Cornwall, that in itself has a message.

My readings recently have been from the books of Samuel and Kings, and I was particularly captured by the words of 2 Samuel 19:8 "Then the king arose and sat in the gate" and all the people came to him. Now the passage is talking about David and how he was then taking place in the gate where Absalom had previously sat and stirred a rebellion against David. David was turning back the people to him in the same gate. There is a place of decision where we must sit and take back that which the enemy has taken from us. The blessed man of Psalm 127 speaks with his enemies in the gate, it is the place of proclaiming righteousness and declaring what the enemy is not allowed in too take. The husband of a noble wife in Proverbs 31 is known in the gates sitting amongst the elders.

We watched Chuck Pierce on God TV the other day, well Linda was and I was doing something on my laptop, so I cannot remember the full context. And again the significance of Gates came up, the year 2008 not only being the year of new beginnings but also the year of the gate, gates of opportunity. It bought back to mind the words God spoke in January about being before an open door! Hallelujah, something is about to open before us, or has opened and we have not seen it yet.

I also remember being stirred by the fact that Mordecai sat in the gates as he waited for the salvation of the Jews from Esthers court last year. It can be a challenge to sit on what appears to be the periphery of things, whilst everything is happening in the palace. I have failed that challenge in the past and I pray I will not again.

In this last week, without going on a hunt for related scriptures, God has used various people, TV, and my own reading to bring to the fore these scriptures about gates
Ezekiel 43:1 "And He bought me to the gate ... and behold the glory of the Lord came from the east - Lord take me to the gate where I will see Your glory, may I be like Obed Edom a blessed gatekeeper
1 Kings 17:10 and when Elijah came to the gate of the city he met the woman of Zarapeth gathering sticks - his instructions led to the miraculous provision of flour and oil never running dry for many days. - Lord take me to the gate of Your provision.
Job 29:7 (The chapter that describes living in the anointing) when I went out to the gate - everyone sat silent with mouths and ears open waiting for my wisdom - Lord take me to the gate where I can proclaim wisdom and it is recieved as from Your lips.

Lord may I work with You to prevent the enemy from entering and stealing through the gates you have given me charge over.
Lord may I work with you to turn back rebellion
Lord may I see the way ahead and enter into the gates of opportunity You have for me in this year.
Lord would You be merciful towards me in this gate.
Amen

Before His Face

2008-06-05T15:09:00.002Z

Luke 10:1
After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.NKJV

It is the desire of most Christians to be in the tangible presence of God, to see His face, to know He has lifted His countenance upon us, that He smiles upon us. Indeed we are always in His presence, but that yearning for closeness and revelation of His face never diminishes.

To think of being SENT OUT "before His face" stirs feelings of losing that closeness, that intimacy. Yet Jesus sent out His seventy, and sends us out today from before His face, ahead of Him to prepare the way for His coming. What wonderful assurance He is always looking towards where we are going, He is always intent on coming to where He has sent us, He is always looking on us.

So whereever He has taken us, He looks on and we are before His face, and He is coming to visit us.

Imaginations

2008-05-11T17:39:00.004Z

Isaiah 66:18
And I, because of their actions and their imaginations , am about to come and gather all nations and tongues, and they will come and see my glory. NIV

We probably all know this image quite well. What do you see/percieve? A vase or two faces? Sometimes our understanding of what God has called/asked us to do is as challenging. His view on moving us into a new area is different to our understanding of why He has taken us there.

We have spent 11 months at Ashburnham. God has done some interesting things, but not what we were expecting. So now we move on again, this time without any idea of what we are going to do or what He wants us to do. A blank canvas is probably the best! We can ask the artist what He is painting.

The verse from Isaiah 66:18 is of paramount relevance on this great day of Global Prayer when several 100's of millions stand together in prayer. 212 nations of every tongue imagining what God might do. What will He do? Will Jesus return today? Will He change the course of history? Will He change nations? Will the Mayor of London be slain in the Spirit? Maybe, but when He sees our imaginations He goes beyond them and reveals His glory.

So as we enter a new realm, a new phase of life, His peace is extended like a river, and His Presence passes before us, and His glory descends upon us. Hallelujah.

Special Friends in the Biggest Family on Planet Earth

2008-05-10T18:28:00.003Z

Our short time at Ashburnham has opened up even more friendships in the greatest family on earth. These are the type of people who stand with you when your world falls apart.

It seems unfair to mention specific people when there are so many but I want to thank Eun Ho, Damaris, Matt, Ali, Andy and Amanda specifically. You are models of unconditional love. Bless you in your continued adventures with Him who created the world for your enjoyment.

As these dear friends see us move on we have a fantastic family in the body of Christ in St Ives preparing a new home for us. You are all fabulous saints, may we bless you, and He will bless you.

Please pray as we seek Gods plans and purposes for our futures. May we know His incredible provision in all areas, yet again. We go back to Toronto for Leadership School and we pray for the healing of our hearts.

Flats Upgraded

2008-05-10T18:23:00.004Z

After Daniel moved out of the flat in Wales following some trauma we have upgraded them and they are now on the market. We are looking for property developers to take them on, with sitting tenants to potentially split them into three flats.

Photos of the flats are on our facebook site.

Walking into the wilderness

2008-03-29T08:36:00.005Z

Well we have finally made another leap of faith and responded to the many words about getting out of the boat, living an Abrahamic lifestyle, leaving the land of your father and mothers etc. How all those words specifically apply to the trauma of having responded to the call to come to Ashburnham for such a relatively small time and now to move on again we are still waiting on God.

I hope when we get to heaven we will understand His ways, but for now we must trust.

Linda has resigned from her best job ever with great heaviness of heart, and some considerable wounds. But as we heard one great pilgrim say the other day "we do not really have time to lick our wounds". Just as we do not understand Gods purposes in all of this many have misunderstood us which is hardly surprising but still painful. We take comfort in Gods commendation for those who are obedient.

As we walk into the wilderness, no direction, no certainty, no money, no home (YET) we remember the Israelites as they begin their journey. They lifted their eyes and saw the glory of the Lord (even in the wilderness).

When Peter got out of the boat he had to keep his eyes on Jesus. The waves were boistorous and is it any wonder he looked down? Please pray that we will keep focussed in this time.

Scare the demons

2008-02-15T08:18:00.002Z

2 Corinthians 2:14-16
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to such a task?

Run around the arena of your church, community, workplace, shopping mall etc. like Roman soldiers carrying burning spice torches, proclaiming the victories of Christ in your life. As you emit the aroma brothers and sisters in Christ will rejioce at the fragrance of life in you, and demons will recognize the smell of death which because of Christ they will suffer in your prayer and worship battles.

Go on, be smelly today!

Joining the iPod Generation

2008-02-01T21:37:00.000Z

Well yes I have given in and purchased an iPod classic. It is fantastic now there will be tension between Linda and I as to who gets to use it. I have converted all of our CDs (no big deal we did not have many until we went to Toronto) and put a couple of hundred teachings/sermons onto the iPod.
Having invested in a lot of soaking and prayer CDs whilst at TACF these have gone on first. What a joy to be blasted with Gods anointed words and music whilst moving around the house. If you have any great suggestions for good downloads please let me know.

This is what Moses said to us today!

2008-01-29T03:40:00.000Z

According to this trolley car advert the 11th Commandment of Moses is to "Relax, Refresh, Recharge". Well I don't think the advertisers know their Bible that well but God can still speak through them. So today was more relaxing.

Most of the adverts on the Subway, and Trolley Cars seem to have some deep meanings for us at the moment?

We decided to take a ride on the trolley car which was cool. The afternoon we slept. Negotiated two days of free breakfasts. Then went out to dinner at an Italian restaurant down by the Hockey Hall of Fame this evening. God is good.

I was there too.

2008-01-28T13:49:00.000Z

This photo is for those who wonder whether I am ever in a photo and just to remind me that I was there too, in the cold looking at a frozen whirlpool.

They were not running the cable car over the whirlpool ..................... hallelujah.

Prophetic Presbytery

2008-01-28T13:39:00.000Z

If God says you are going to new heights did He mean I was going up the CN Tower? No, but I did anyway, and came down very quickly, 20 kilometers per hour, 58 seconds.

Today was our final Sunday at TACF and we went to prophetic presbytery before the service. We joined over 100 others who stood outside the doors of TACF in the snow from 8:15 in the morning?? Are we mad or desperate for God?

Why is it that God always leaves the key revelations to the last minute?

Probably because you do not put a full stop (period) until the end of the sentence.

We have it all on tape but cannot listen again to it till we get back to England and the outworking of the words needs to be processed, the second half of 2008 is going to see some changes and we are going to get the most highest tech hiking boots with air sprung pockets going????

Keep watching for Gods moves.

Niagra

2008-01-27T11:32:00.001Z

It was a freezing, snowy, foggy day at Niagra.

You know the power is there because you can hear the thunder.

You know the beauty is there because you have seen the postcards.

You know the sun is in the sky because otherwise it would be pitch black.

You know the way but you have to walk in the fog for the moment.

Pastors and Leaders Conference - TACF

2008-01-26T05:29:00.000Z

What an awesome time. Gold teeth given. Deaf hearing. Backs healed. Miracles upon miracles. Manifestations upon manifestations. Salvations as well. This was no ordinary seeker friendly service, but the power of Holy Spirit left no doubt that the message was for unbelievers inside and outside the church. WOW.
We went through several fire tunnels and received a number of impartations. Unfortunately the prophetic presbytery was oversubscribed but we are hoping there will be space on Sunday morning. We had a number of divinely arranged contacts over meals etc. One particularly powerful one this Friday lunchtime with a Dutch contingent the leader of which spoke profoundly, and precisely, confirming many issues we are currently facing, lots of follow up to process yet. We left lunch more shaken by the Holy Spirit than any of the earlier impartations last night and earlier in the day, albeit they were fantastic.
We spent a fair bit of time with a lovely couple from Colorado who were a real blessing.
We have been particularly impacted by the testimonies of the interns, and the missions works that TACF are engaged in. We may even join them on one to Alaska in 2009. Now that is a major surprise as Linda hates the cold and never really considered missions trips before. We have even been touched by a DVD of missions to Africa. Now I know God is doing something in our hearts!
Healing of the heart, and breaking of generational curse is what God has begun whilst we have been here. We are hungry for more and are seeking God how to move forward in those areas.
We came desperate, and we will leave desperate, but it is a different type of desparation, one to get on with going deeper into the Fathers heart and a radical refocus on destiny. Much processing to do.
Bill Johnson and Patricia King were great speakers, we are going to have to get the CDs as we were too tired to absorb the gems of revelation. Duncan Smith ministered powerfuly in healing and forgiveness, focussing on the power of the cross. Mary Audrey released some wonderful anointings as did many of the other speakers. I would love to spend more time around John and Carol Arnott to experience more of the presence they carried.
Tonights fire tunnel was great fun as we ministered to the conference, I lost my voice shout FIRE and MORE and blasting people with glory pistols, and making some strange noises which I did not think were in me????
Its late 1am so must go to sleep as we are off to Niagra tomorrow. Will upload some photos then.

Snow Capped Mountains and Toronto

2008-01-10T20:40:00.000Z

During a prophetic exercise recently where people were speaking into our past, then into our present, and then into our future. The words snow capped mountains and Toronto were spoken into our future. So what does that mean?

The words about my past and my present made a lot of sense and appeared accurate, so I could not discount the whole exercise!

They did not know we were going there in two weeks time, and I doubt we will see snow capped mountains, unless out of the plane window. God can inform people with accuracy but we do not always get all the details of application. It is down to us to know whether this is a confirmation of things He is already saying and whether it fits a general picture and guidance on our life. So for now we just go to conference and see what God says next.

Other words, from another participant, for my future included Teddy Bear??????

Do you love Me more than these?

2008-01-08T22:08:00.000Z

Have you ever wondered what Jesus may have gestured towards when He asked Peter three times "Do you love Me more than these?"
Was it the fish, because Peter had gone back to his comfort zone of fishing?
Was it the boat, because Peter had gone back to open waters?
Was it the other apostles he had persuaded to go fishing with him?
If Jesus appeared to me, to you, right at this minute in time, I wonder what He would challenge us as to whether we loved the things in front of us more than Him?
The way Jesus trained Peter for his ministry was absolutely incredible, and gives us all hope that no matter how much we fail. Jesus sees straight to our hearts and knows that deep down we love Him, He loves us, and always gives us an opportunity to put aside those temporary lapses back into comfort zones, familiar things and other distractions.

God speaks in many diverse ways

2008-01-05T22:44:00.000Z

Well I have just completed three days of intense prophetic course and exercises. Learnt a whole new batch of exercises to help develop the prophetic gifting and hone our reception so can't wait to try them out with some of our friends.

As well as the great encouragement of hearing words which spoke very specifically into other peoples lives it was a blessing to recieve so many different words from such a diverse group of predominently Scottish people who don't know me. Many of the words were confirmatory, ie confirming what others said in the sessions. None were directional but got very close to it if you understood the situation to which they applied. Only three words/pictures meant nothing teddy bear, football park and spoon, perhaps I will get to understand. The only thing I can think about the Teddy bear is that I need one for comfort at the moment.

The time of commissioning and impartation was powerful (except the bit where Dennis the Menace was mentioned, albeit relevant).

So now I will rest, then re examine the words after a few days, and see what falls away and what is amplified.

If you want to walk on water you have to get out of the boat.

2008-01-01T21:51:00.000Z

Unlike many people I know I have not read Ortbergs book of this title (yet). But it was used in a prophecy last weekend and it bought back memories of a message preached by my good friend Texan Evangelist Peter Cavasoz a couple of years ago before we left North Wales.

There are some messages that are life impacting (like most of what God speaks to you personally and you choose to obey) this is one of those messages. The passage Matthew 14:22-36 just after the feeding of the five thousand Jesus sends His disciples on ahead of Him. He sends them in a boat. Surely He knows there will be rough waters out there? Of course He does but He sends His disciples into the storm. Was it to create a message just about having faith enough to walk on water?

Peter Cavasoz did not use Ortbergs title for the message he preached, as many of us may be tempted to do. He chose "MINISTRY IS ON THE OTHER SIDE".

Jesus sent His disciples ahead of Him to minister to the needs of the people on the other "side of the pond".

So His disciples learnt a number of lessons - you can walk on water - you have to get out of the boat - if you are in a boat you are on a journey - if Jesus has sent you on the journey then you are moving from one place of ministry to another.

I wonder if Peter and Jesus could have walked all the way to the other side?

Happy New Year - An Open Door is set before us.

2007-12-31T21:24:00.000Z

Rev 4:1 "After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven .. Immediately I was in the Spirit"

May you all have a fantastic New Year and find the Open Door for new adventures with God. After all of 2007 (this) there is something more in 2008. In Revelation 3 we are assured when we open the door of our hearts to Christ's purposes, then He comes in and dines with us, and we have fellowship with Him. Throughout 2007 you will have opened your heart to Christs knock on many occassions. allowed Him to take control, taken risks on His behalf and come to a new place of fellowship. Many times this will have been a blessing, at others will have seemed exhausting and absolutely crazy. Well that has been our journey this last year.

Revelation 4:1 says AFTER ALL THIS there is door standing open before us. The door of 2008 may be for many a door of HOPE as we enter this year of HOPE08. For others it will be a door of new ventures, new opportunities, new risks. My prayer is that whatever the Open Door before us we will be taken in by the Holy Spirit to get a glimpse of heaven, a glimpse of Gods glory, to experience His reign as we see Him on the throne, and to recieve the assurance of the rainbow of promise.

Join us on the adventure of moving through the Open Doors He places before us.

Flat for rent

2007-12-29T20:52:00.000Z

Our tenants in Wales have served notice for the end of January. After some remedial work which we will do in February it will be available to let again in March. That is, subject to prayer and revelation as to whether we should put it up for sale, or let it again.

Logically we do not want to take our foot out of the property market, particularly as the property is at the right end of the first time buyers market.

We love Colwyn Bay and have sown in prayer into its transformation and the flat is one of our remaining seeds. Please join us in prayer as to whether this is another thing we should lay down?

Daniel would appreciate contact and prayer

2007-12-29T20:48:00.000Z

Daniel is struggling with a number of things at the moment and I am sure would appreciate contact by phone, or a visit, but especially prayer.

He has been physically unwell for some time with stomach problems which he is waiting for tests to determine the problem. His position at work is insecure and he is also quite lonely at the moment. We would love to go and see him but it is not possible at the moment. Please pray for fast diagnosis of his health issues and that this does not adversely impact on his work situation which he is trying so hard to keep secure.

Toronto Visit - Airport Strikes

2007-12-23T22:41:00.000Z

Please pray that our trip to Toronto is not messed up by the forecast airport strikes in the New Year.

At the moment we are due to fly on the 18th the fourth day of the strikes planned at all London, Scottish and Southampton airports. A later flight may mean we miss the conference we so desperately want to attend. God can of course sort all things out, and the strikes may be called off before that date, however God expects us to call on Him in all circumstances.

Pre Christmas family visits

2007-12-23T22:30:00.001Z

We have just returned from spending a week with Ray and Becky, and visiting Ben and Judith on the return journey.
All the family are really doing great. The Devon students are very studious and determined. Had a great time in a very cold house and lots of fog and frost, but the company and food were great. The Sunday morning service at Hemyock Baptist was packed (with activity - family service), and lovely people.
Ray and Beckys new accomodation is brilliant and it was really great to see this before they move in, in January. A long overdue reward for all their hard work and commitment.
We produced a nativity video for their Sunday service, which might get used at ASH??? - good fun.
Joined their SWYM cluster group for breakfast in Weatherspoons, a great place for sharing, planning and praying. It was really encouraging just to be able to make some suggestions for their prayer concert in the New Year, and to have a young Colarado team member say that the program would "KICK ASS" which I think means was "COOL" and appropriate for young people. I was wondering if I had lost enthusiasm and inspiration for such things so it was great to get that little buzz, and also to hear God speak.
God is preparing contacts for the New Year to open up new plans so we continue to pray.

Great men have great habits

2007-12-11T00:14:00.000Z

Well there is a thought?

I always knew that great men have great, fantastic, beautiful, forebearing, passionate wives, because I have one. Along with a Saviour what else could you ask for? Wonderful children and fantastic friends of course. One of the habits great men should have is developing relationships that matter most.

I read the title quote in a book I have just reviewed on my Facebook account and it has got me thinking.

What thought shall I sow tomorrow? What action will I reap?
What action will I sow tomorrow? What habit will I reap?
What habit will I sow tomorrow? What lifestyle shall I reap?

The best thing I can sow into tomorrow is my family, my friends and my relationships. Along with thinking about and serving Jesus, that will reap the greatest benefits for tomorrow.

So while I am here in St Ives and whereever I go, lets get sowing.

And following on from the above quote here is another relating to destiny.

Jesus made decisions that created a desired future instead of a desired present.

Father God help us all to do that. Help me. Please.

Chasing Destiny

2007-12-08T15:07:00.001Z

Hi folks. Many of you will have helped me over the years experience God in different ways and discover His purpose on my life.

The last years at Princes Drive were the beginning of a new phase, the year at The Vine, St Ives was an incredible acceleration, and the first six months here at Ashburnham feels like hitting a brick wall. I am sure it is not as bad as it feels, and God will use this phase of my walk to line me up with His destiny.

Next week beginning on the 10th December I am off to John & Sallys for a period of reflection, relaxtion and honest analysis of where I am and where I am going. I plead for the prayers of all those who have watched my journey particularly over the last ten years to recieve revelation of the next steps.

In January I have two great events coming up - a few days with John Paul Jackson on an Advanced Prophetic course in Glasgow - and two weeks in Toronto at a pastors and leaders conference. I trust all of these things will reveal, confirm and underline what He would have me do. Your comments appreciated and I accept full responsibility for weighing and acting on words that may seem directional.

Volunteer Training Program

2007-12-08T14:57:00.000Z

Chris loves teaching and preaching, particularly when it equips people to walk into their destiny with Christ and empowers them to take hold of all that God has promised.

The highlight of many weeks here at Ashburnham for Chris is to teach on the Volunteers Training Program. He is so grateful for the privilege and opportunity to serve in this very small way (small in terms of time input). I wonder how he would have survived without this outlet for his energies.

This season he has delivered 20 lessons, 10 on Bible Characters and 10 on Developing the Prophetic Gifting. Those who know him and his teaching and studies on Bible Characters will appreciate he can get carried away with the amount of detail he tries to cram in. The poor volunteers have struggled to cope with the amount of foriegn (English) words he has thrown at them. Particularly on things like the name differences of Elijah and Elisha to the various nationalities is really difficult for many. However, I think he is learning to slow down.

The course on developing the prophetic gifting has been great fun for him and most of the students. At last he has had the opporunity to run a full 10 weeks on a topic he has taught on in various places, and one in which he is still learning. The experiences and teaching he has recieved from people like Rachel Hickson, Sharon Stone, Dwain White, and many others are driving him deeper.

New Home

2007-12-08T13:37:00.000Z

Here is a photo of our new house for those who have not seen them.

The Rabbits are Gone

2007-12-08T13:25:00.000Z

I am using this as the starting point of updating our blogs since we arrived at Ashburnham. It is the saddest piece of news so I want it to disappear of the bottom of my blog page as quickly as possible. Smokey and Bandit both contracted mitsamatosis so had to go further to bunny heaven than the beautiful gardens they have lived in while they were here.

I would love to replace them but the risks of disease are too high. So while Linda is at work I will have to talk to myself and God.

Preparing for His return in Prayer

2007-01-13T18:52:00.000Z

In February 2007 we will be holding a conference at Treloyhan with the above title. There are details on the Transform Cornwall websites Diary page and you ca download the poster and brochure. But here are the opening comments from the programme leaflet. They stirred in me after completing a series of messages on His return, and having been stirred by John Bevere's book Driven By Eternity.

"As I watch Holy Spirit move the church of Christ around the world to unprecedented levels of prayer. I am more and more certain that the end time harvest is about to take place on a global scale.
As many in the UK are calling this a year of prayer in preparation for Hope08, and we have seen an alignment of prayer and evangelistic ministries over the past few years I get even more excited.
However, to many of us in relation to prayer and evangelism the church is still a sleeping giant. The prayer meeting remains the most poorly attended, and the attempts at outreach are minimal. There is much to be done in concert with the Holy Spirit to motivate people to prayer.
When you look at the parable of the 10 virgins representing the church in Matthew 25 they were all asleep. When you consider Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, His disciples were asleep. It was dark, it was the middle of the night, they had had a busy day, and the temptation to sleep rather than watch and pray was incredible.
Jesus exhorts us to “Watch” for His return will be sudden, and at night. It is probable we will have been really busy and tired, attending to His business but forgetting to watch and pray.
This conference has been organized for Treloyhan Manor guests and day visitors to focus on ways to motivate their fellowships and communities to prayer.
Over the past eight years particularly as I have been involved in Prayer Week, 24-7 prayer and prayer for government I have been privileged to participate in many innovative and exciting ways of prayer. To see people from many cultures, traditions, denominations and backgrounds unite in prayer has been awesome. To witness how prayer has been made accessible to various communities and used as a means of evangelism has been exhilarating. To watch prayers being answered as a result of steps of faith into unknown territory and unity has proven Gods faithfulness to those who watch and seek His purposes.
We will draw on these experiences to inspire, enthuse and motivate you to consider new adventures in prayer within your own church, in association with other churches, and as a form of outreach.
We have a number of visual and practical aids, along with video clips of different initiatives and speakers to help cast a vision of how prayer has changed lives and situations."

Friends such as Phil Togwell from 24/7 and Phil Misselbrook from Ambassadors for Christ with others will help stir up a standing together in prayer here in Cornwall.

Today it was our privilege to share at a gathering of 60-70 in Penzance from churches around the area, who with the exception of 2 had never heard of Prayer Week yet are hungry for motivation and unity in prayer. Please pray that we can help these wonderful people catch a vision.

I said I would not do it - Father Christmas

2007-01-13T18:35:00.000Z

Well I have often said I would never never never ever be Father Christmas. BUT this year my arm was well and truly twisted by our pastor and the manager at Treloyhan.

So for the amusement of all those who wanted to see the photo. There it is. There are some censored ones of Father Christmas carrying his present away (Linda), but thats another story!!!!

Belated Happy New Year and late news

2007-01-11T14:53:00.000Z

Okay. Okay. I am not good at keeping this blog stuff upto date. I am sorry.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

We have had a good Christmas and it was really special to have Ray & Becky with us. They were fantastic, helped a lot, and it was good to see them so happy in what they are doing.

The hotel was very busy 90 plus for Christmas Dinner and 40ish for the New Years Eve Banquet. I had to play Father Christmas twice, once at church and once in the hotel. No photos unless somebody twists my arm.

As I type this update I am listening to the song Yahweh, many happy memories.

Daniel has left us today and returned to North Wales. Hopefuly he will find work, permanent accomodation and money other than out of my pocket.

Ben and Judiths wedding rapidly approaches and we stress out on organisational details but not as much as they do. It will be great to have the wedding in the hotel and extend the family even more.

If you have not already listened and read your Christmas presents (family), you will be challenged, provoked and hopefuly enjoy DRIVEN BY ETERNITY and the AFFABEL CDs from John Bevere. It has made me a lot clearer about my Second Coming theology. I pray it helps you all. Anybody who did not get it as a present should buy, study, prau and enjoy.

Bless you all.

Welcome Smokey & Bandit

2006-10-23T15:59:00.000Z

Here are the two new members of the Wallis household. Linda called the front wabbit Smokey so I had to call the other Bandit. Tizzie only lasted a few days (non reputable supplier) bad advice and food resulted in early departure.

These two are very active. They chew carpets, wires and my shirt. Smokey likes to take CDs out of the rack, has not yet learnt to turn on the CD player.

They will have a new friend soon, in the form of a guinea pig.

Great stress relievers!

Family History

2006-09-16T16:35:00.000Z

At last I have found a way to automatically create a web page for our Family History. To access this you can click on the link in on the right hand side.

Enjoy a browse.

Who Moved?

2006-09-03T15:10:00.000Z

Have you ever beat yourself up because you feel God seems a little distant and that familiar phrase - "If God seems distant guess who's moved - You" comes to mind?

In the majority of cases this is a true statement, but lets not forget God moves also.

This morning as I was sharing I believe God led us to consider the fact that He is always moving on, and that we need to move with Him. Sometimes when we stay in the last place we met Him, we miss the fact that He has moved on. That wonderful verse in James tells us to Draw near to God, and He will draw near to us. Both parties move, you and God.

Can you imagine how peeved all those who had just been baptised by Jesus disciples were when according to John 4:3 he left them all and went off to Galilee. How else was He going to get space from everyone to meet one woman at a well with such a reputation. Would you be peeved if all of a sudden your pastor left the church to pursue a lost soul.

How would you feel if you were Adam and God had breathed life into your nostrils. You have just seen God face to face. Yet he leaves you in the garden alone some of the time to get on with the job He has given you to do. So often we want to hang onto the Breath of receiving Holy Spirit experience, our first love of conversion, our angelic appearance, our times of Gods visitation - when realy we just need to get on with the job He has given us.

Well I am challenged. We have had the wonders of being moved by God. Now its time to settle into the hard work.

Why would the shepherd anoint the sheep?

2006-09-03T15:01:00.000Z

Last Sunday I went to Chy an Gwael, a little Methodist Church in Carbis Bay, with a lot of holidaymakers making up the congregation. I always find it a challenge, and a privilege to be asked, to share in a new church. You just don't know how you will be recieved.

We looked at the tools of the trade of the middle eastern shepherd, including thinking on why the shepherd would anoint sheep. Did you realise the shepherd carried scented oil to treat his sheep when wounded and to protect them from nose flies which would lay their eggs in the flesh of the nose. Those eggs when they hatch would send the sheep crazy with irritation, they would bang their heads against trees, and jump off cliffs because of the wriggling larvae. They would become suicidal. However, if they stopped by the shepherd they were anointed and protected, but if they wandered and stuck their nose into other things then they were prone.

What might the parallel be? Possibly just like when we are tempted to stick our nose into other peoples business, entertain gossip, tolerate rumour. The unhealthy thoughts get really under the skin, and irritate like crazy.

Staying by the shepherd for anointing is always the wisest move.

Meet the new addition to the family

2006-08-29T19:23:00.000Z

Well that got everbodies attention.

Old age creeps on and you start thinking about little ones again. So I have adopted a new baby called Tizzie. She has just arrived nine weeks old, and living in sunny St Ives hopping around the lounge this evening?

Celebrate Recovery - Gideon

2006-08-20T13:40:00.000Z

Well Hi there for all those who are Celebrating Recovery. Tonight at Church of the Vine we will look at the life of Gideon and how God took him through a recovery process. Can you imagine a man who had such an inferiority complex, a feeling of insignificance and fear, being sent out in "the strength that he has" to tear down the past and conquer the Midians. God is really good isn't He, he doesn't concern Himself with Gideons fear and give him big armies to help him overcome his fear. No off you go with 300, some trumpets and lamps in jars and see what happens!!! Oh thank you.

For those in Colwyn Bay, can you remember the Jenga example? How the building bricks of our life need changing, reshaping, and replacing. Well I think they think I'm nuts, I told them all to fetch Jenga tonight for the service??????

Up in Wales tomorrow and then back to preach at Chy an Gwael, wonder what will happen then??

Vegetables Grow Big in Cornish Soil

2006-08-18T21:23:00.000Z

You remember those carrots in the Transformation videos?

You should see my beetroots (more like crown green bowls), and three legged ginormous carrots, courgettes that think they are marrows. Had a good harvest of weeds too.

Been busy pickling tonight!!!!

Love Cornwall

2006-08-18T21:07:00.000Z

If you have not heard Clifford and Monica Hill have motivated a move entitled "Love Cornwall". In September there will be a month of Christians expressing their love to the people of Cornwall through a whole variety of means.

Here in St Ives the churches who worked together so well in the 24/7 of prayer, will be doing an "On the Move" barbeque in the town centre. It was great to walk into a meeting the other week and see Nick and Christina again. Bit of a shock for them, know the face but its out of place questions darted across their face.

Check out the website www.transform-cornwall.co.uk and the links to the Love Cornwall web site to keep informed of some of things I am doing.

Your investment

2006-08-18T21:04:00.000Z

Simon is now in South Africa at Hatfield Christian Centre. I know I have spoken to most of you who invested in sending him out, but just in case a big thankyou. You helped contribute nearly £100 to sending him off. Now we need your prayers that he comes back full of power and vision. He has a great ability to draw young people, so we pray that he will have the joy of seeing many come to the Lord whilst he is in SOuth Africa and when he gets back next year.

We are still around

2006-08-18T20:55:00.000Z

No - we have not fallen off the face of the planet.

Life has been so hectic in high season, and too be honest I did not realise how long it was since we last blogged that when I went to look at it I had forgotten my username and password!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Back in business. Sorry for all those desperate for news. (If there is anyone out there?)

God continues to stretch and stretch us - ever wondered if you were going to snap?

The first things to Praise the Lord for and send congratulations are to Steve and Gill for becoming grandparents. Take a look at their blog - aren't they cute. Kyria is fantastic too, well done Lee and Sarah.

Becky and Ray are moving closer too. We are really looking forward to that, particularly as they enter into Gods plans for them in service. Go for it kids.

Daniel is now down with us, job and accomodation needs much prayer, but God has a plan for him being here, its a great challenge for him.

Ben and Judith are getting married here next March, so we are going to be very busy and enjoy God unfolding his plans for them all.

Hi Honey, we're home!!!

2006-05-16T21:28:00.000Z

Got loads to tell and not much time! Had a great time in North Wales it was good to see everyone again.We really enjoyed I61, way to go guys - go for it!!

Also really enjoyed fellowship with some old friends at PDBC and with Peter Carvasoz. Trumpet Call for me was really encouraging and have come back with some good strategies.

We're planning a Family Fun Day on June 10th here at Treloyhan Manor Hotel, so if you're around come and join us!! We've got a planning meeting for this tomorrow.

Before the fun day we'll be having 24/7 prayer joining with other churches here in St Ives. We're very excited as churches are working together on this.

Anyway, must go, need some sleep!!

By the way, what do you think of my first attempt at blogging?

Divine Appointments

2006-05-01T18:54:00.000Z

How often do you get so many divine appointments in such a short space of time?

Linda and I continue to be amazed at how many people we are meeting that will prove to be significant in the year to come. We are nearly on the point of exhaustion with all the things God is raising us up to be involved in, but it is fantastic.

More contacts are being made with people to be involved in the 24/7 prayer for St Ives. We have another planning meeting 2nd May with a couple more churches represented. There is a lot to do, there are some real sticking points with some people, but God intends this to happen.

We have had a couple stopping at the Manor this last weekend who we have united in heart with and will see much work together in the future called Ola and Emmanuel from Kingsway International Christian Centre in London (small congregation of 7000). I will probably be stopping with them for some of the time during the 24/7 for Parliament in June, and worshipping with them on the 18th. June (or more).

We are also expecting contact soon from a team of intercessors from the States that come to pray in Cornwall each year for a return of revival. (Now doesn't that sound familiar). Guess where there base has been each year (the last time there were 59 of them for two weeks). You guessed it Treloyhan Manor. The churches vision, the prophetic word of key workers, a word given by Ola and Emmanuel while they were here last weekend (even though we have never met before and they have never been to Cornwall before) and the vision of these intercessors, all working independently (why are we like that in the church), all state that there will be a revival fire starting down here at the bottom of the leg and spreading up through Cornwall to the capital to join the fires that are coming from other regions. The work I have been doing with the Cornwall Prayer Initiative leaders and a number of evangelists is also seeing Treloyhan and St Ives as a starting point of such a work (and this has not been suggested by me - in fact it is almost scary).

Last week we spent Lindas two days off with our pastor, and another couple from church. Their confirmation of the calling on us has left us wide mouthed. There are two wide mouthed frogs down here in St Ives.

Walked into a bookshop last week. As well as buying books ended up with a preaching engagement in another church for the coming weekend. Have been requested to speak on guess what "Prayer and unity"???

Got an email from another pastor in the area and asked to go and speak this Friday for a short while on "Prayer"

Bumped into a couple from Derbyshire who live and tour the area in a motorhome giving out Bibles and witnessing at a fund raising event on Saturday night. They know the people who are coming from the States, and have a similar vision for Cornwall????

Linda has been a little stretched over the last week as number of guests increases whilst the number of staff seems to decrease. Please pray for additional support.

We have a fantastic evenagelist on staff, Maria, who is really great with the non Christian staff but keeps dragging them off to meetings when you need them in work. Some of you readers will know the tensions this creates when you want them to be saved but also have a job to do. What a wonderful predicament. Please pray for more staff who see this as a service unto the Lord.

Did a bit of drumming on Sunday. Holy Spirit came in power even with the noise I made. Gave a notice, and got a round of applause (they are strange here).

The sand is golden again, the sea is turquiose, and the sun is shining. On top of that the SON is shining on us. See you soon.

Easter Weekend and jump starting

2006-04-17T17:37:00.000Z

Hi - we have had a great weekend and a very happy birthday. Meetings with local ministers going well, 247 for St Ives progressing apace.

We have had visits from Dave Landrum from Parliament with family and Ray and Becky over the Easter weekend which was really great.

There is a reported change in the spiritual and business atmosphere of the hotel according to staff and guests, which is realy encouraging.

The bids for the envelope containing cash currently stand at £25 as the highest bid. This will really help jump start a young man into his future through the internship in South Africa. Linda's CDs selling well, we are now onto Begonia and Tomatoe plants for sale. Our target - £200. Keep it coming. If you have made a bid, but not the highest, you can always make a donation!!!!

Thank you everyone for all of your continued prayers and birthday blessings.

Help somebody else jump into their destiny

2006-03-28T12:08:00.000Z

Dear Friends

This is not what a blog is usually used for, but it could be your opportunity to help a young man (recent convert) enter his destiny. Simon is about to leave to go on internship for a year in South Africa at Hatfield Christian Church (7000 members)www.hatfield.co.za . He is going to do practical mission work as well as study and from a person in recovery it is going to be a challenge.

At church in St Ives on Sunday the message was based on the 10 minas, everyone who was willing to recieve in order to give was given an envelope with money in. (Yipee a church that gives money away!!!!). The catch within 2 months the pastor is going to take back whatever has been made with its contents to support Simon in going to South Africa. A good biblical test, hoping not to be sent away as a wicked servant, I wondered what can I do.

HOW ABOUT AUCTIONING the envelope. If you would like to sow into this young guys life what would you bid me for the envelope and its contents? I know you don't know how much is in it, but the question is would you want to see a young guy jump into his destiny and be part of the family that sowed into his life.

To make a bid submit via the comments section.

Linda is selling CDs of her message from Daughers - JUMP. I'LL CATCH YOU at £5 each having sowed the contents of her envelope into buying the materials. You can also buy a CD by submitting your details via the comments section.

Time to Garden

2006-03-21T15:20:00.000Z

On Saturday I claimed gardening territiorial rights in part of the extensive ground here in Treloyhan. (The gardener was on a day off, and I wanted to plant something other than trees)

Well the peas are in, along with the runner beans, carrots, beetroot, parsnips, cabbage, cauli, lettuce, onions and leeks.

Then went in the raspberry bushes, blueberry bush (Linda wants Blueberry muffins), loganberry, blackberry, gooseberry and other soft fruits. Strawberries next weekend if they arrive, and rhubarb.

The grapevine will have to go in soon along with the rhubarb. I am also reclaiming the herb gardens which have grossly overgrown. I have been spreading chicken manure so the place smells really lovely (not).

Will be learning the Cornish farming dialect soon (our pastor is an ex Cornish farmer, speaks it well, and its hard not to mimic). He wears the obligatory leather jacket which looks the same as mine!!!!!

Big Vision at new church

2006-03-21T15:04:00.000Z

Well Sunday we sat and wept as we saw Gill projected onto the screen in the new church, and thought about everyone back in Colwyn Bay.

Yes, at our second service in St Ives, the Prayer Week intro clip was shown, vision was caught and we are seeking strategy on how to unfold the plan in this area.

Linda and I got to introduce ourselves and where we have been over the past few years. Very warmly recieved, and very much at home.

The church is small, average adult congregation 40, but a fair size young peoples work of 20-30. Despite their size, their vision is big. They already employ a pastor, associate pastor and youth worker. They are about to fund the building of 5 - 180 seater churches in India at a cost of only £1,250 each. They are also about to fund a recent convert £3K to go off to internship for a year in South Africa. Now all of that is small fry compared to the £1million pound new build 250-300 seater church, cafe, community centre, conference centre, multi purpose rooms etc. The architects came to present the walk through the new building DVD on Sunday evening, very impressive. They have £70K at the moment??? God is big, and we would appreciate your prayers that we continue to find favour with various funding agencies. Crucial meeting this Wednesday.

I am off to Parliament on Thursday, so that will be interesting. Went to the local camera club last night, nice people. Trying to buy anything local is a nightmare. Oh for an Alpha Business Centre in town. They have a local window firm whose logo looks like Prestige, thought Mike was on a skive (of course Ray would be looking after Becky).

Off to meet with the Cornish Prayer Initiative in Redruth tomorrow so some God appointments would be great.

Missing you all. Weather has gone cool.

Continuing to settle in

2006-03-09T21:26:00.000Z

We are continuing to settle in. A few more visits to B&Q. A bit more digging, painting and shelf putting up.

Heres a photograph of our new lounge. More photos will follow when I have the Broadband set up.

Lindas first day off tomorrow so I can get out with the camera, and stop working so hard.

Its Thursday night and really strange not to be going to Prayer Meeting, so I had a timely phone call from the local co-ordinator for the Cornwall Prayer Initiative, go to the first meeting on the 22nd. March, night before I next visit Parliament. Pray for good connections and an opportunity to share about Prayer Week.

Hotel food is too good, getting heavier. Although got a streaming cold today, must be all this sunshine????

We have arrived - its like being paid to be on holiday

2006-03-07T20:05:00.000Z

After a heavy downfall of snow. Being let down by the vehicle rental company on the date of the move. Due to the dogged determination of all, Arthurs driving, and Daniels directing we all got here on Friday afternoon.

Boy was it hard work unloading, upacking, decorating and constructing. But what a beautiful new home God has supplied. Why did all the help vaporize when it came to unloading the washing machine??? Except for the faithful that is.

We have had some fantastic weather, brilliant food, and such an incredible welcome to make us feel at home. Linda has actually had phone calls from most of the other managers in the group of hotels in which she works to welcome us, that we have practically had more welcomes than goodbyes?

The love, help and support of all in Colwyn Bay has made this move really easy. A BIG THANKYOU.

As you can see it is hard work being here in the beautiful sunshine, turquoise sea, fantastic scenery, flowers budding, birds a singing, great food etc. SEE YOU HERE SOON.

WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU ALL.

Our last Sunday at Princes Drive - Passion Lives Here

2006-02-27T00:06:00.000Z

Well today was another turning point in Gods call upon us to continue to follow Him wherever He leads, whenever He leads, even if we do not fully understand.

We were wonderfully sent off in todays service, and whilst there is some sadness at leaving what has been our family for the last nine years, there is also an incredible peace and expectation about His call.

Linda spoke yesterday at Daughters entitled "Jump and He will catch you", and today I shared from Joshua 23-24 a farewell message entitled "Moving and Grooving". If you want to know more about the journey God has had us on why not try the PDBC podcast and download the message from http://pdbcpodcast.blogspot.com , they may be available soon. See you can even catch up with where we are at even if you could not be with us on this very special day.

The winter Olympics logo "PASSION LIVES HERE" has meant something very special today. A Passion to be willing to change, a re-ignition of the passion of our first love, a passion to get into the groove of grace. Wow what a day.

Even if God guides people do not always follow through

2006-02-22T16:50:00.000Z

Hi all. Just to keep you updated following our earlier posting about the tenants who God clearly bought to us. They have changed their mind. As we dug deeper I have suspicion they are very much "New Age" type travellers, and it is highly probable that God wanted to draw them closer to Him through this experience.

However, we still know He is in control and we would welcome your continued prayers for a speedy letting of the property.

We have a fantastic basement, and conservatory, which makes this an incredibly spacious flat??? I have dreamt it would become a haven of prayer with interns coming to maintain 24/365 of prayer in Colwyn Bay. Was that vivid imagination or God, bring it on Lord if thats what you had planned.

Some People keep weird photographs

2006-02-22T16:46:00.000Z

Thanks to Bob and Nen I now remember what it was like taking a group of young people out to Pont y Pant Youth Hostel!!!!

Were we really that tired? and did we really look like that???

2006-02-17T00:17:00.000Z

Our Flags - Cornwall and Wales - Righteousness overcoming sin and the light of the gospel in darkness

Advance Booking - The Traveller

2006-02-16T23:22:00.000Z

(Left is a photo of some of my friends during Prayer for Parliament Week last Year)

Just so you know, we may be in St.Ives from the 1st March, but it looks like God intends the "immobilized" (non car driver), to do a bit of travelling???

23rd-24th March with my great friends Christians in Parliament, just praying around the Westminster Estate, and encouraging them where I can. Train fare only £55 cheaper than from Colwyn Bay.PTL

5th-10th April will be in Colwyn Bay doing some work and God willing making some arrangements for Prayerweek. Flying up from Newquay to Manchester £37 return (good hey - cheaper than the train £126?????) When He said I would fly this year, I went super spiritual and had crazy imaginations!!!!

7th-14th May back in Colwyn Bay for Prayer Week - Hallelujah - ITS TIME FOR INCREASED UNITY AMONGST THE CHURCHES

God guides even those who do not know Him

2006-02-16T23:12:00.000Z

I wanted to add this testimony, even though it is nearly one week old, because to me it is incredible how God works.

How can anybody other than Father arrange for you to bump into new tenants all the way from Toronto, Canada, in a church cafe in a place like Colwyn Bay? John and Helene McWha said they felt "guided" and that there is no such thing as co-incidence. They soon got to know I believe in God incidences.

Walking off the streets of Colwyn Bay into the coffee lounge of PDBC come two strangers who want directions to Bay View Road. Strange that I live there? They are looking for a flat that has just come on the market. Strange that I am probably the landlord? The agents are trying to get hold of you to arrange a viewing if you are. Strange that, I have turned off my phone because I was in a meeting? Would like to see now. Strange that, I just have half an hour? Walk into the lounge and as good as decided to take it there and then.

Its now a week later, papers are signed, furniture found a new home, six months rent in advance, and all because God wants to reassure you He is control of the whole thing.

EVERY NEED WILL BE MET (DOUBLE PORTION)

2006-02-16T22:39:00.000Z

Yet another incredible blessing today. Our new tenants came round and made an offer on the furniture we were going to give away to charity. It was only a small offer, but all gifts recieved with such gratitude to Him. Now I have not got the cost, and the humping of these items from Colwyn Bay to Lands End.

2006-02-16T22:34:00.000Z

Today, Father used one of His servants, to deliver a double portion of freshly baked bread, and four blueberry muffins. They came in a Morrisons bag left on the doorstep, and I think I know who the servant was. Just three weeks ago this double portion of bread started to mysteriously arrive as God reassured us He would meet our every need, more than double. Considering this was an acutely tight "financial and food" period it brings a tear to my eyes just to see how responsive His ear is to our cries and some of His servants to His prompting. Hallelujah

2006-02-15T23:11:00.000Z

Two weeks to go and we move to our new calling in St.Ives. It's scary and exciting, all in one.

Tonight was my last elder and deacons meeting at PDBC, yet another one of those last events you go through before you move on. I don't even think I will have a completed year of "eldering" with a title, isn't it strange how God "gives and takes away"? Last Sunday was the last time I will probably play drums at PD, I am so grateful to God for allowing me time to play and worship in a place of freedom. I still prefer congas and bongos, and I pray God's anointing and freedom will come in a new place.

A few more boxes to pack. A report to write. A computer to fix. A load more letters to do.

Did you know that you cannot write to the Electricity supplier more than a week before and inform them that you are moving. Their computer can't cope. So they get an annoying operator to phone you up and ask you to write on the day you move (not like I have more pressing things to do on the day), and let them know the same facts!!!! I told them as nicely as I could that I am sure they would manage to find me to pay the bill if I was more than a little busy on the day.