Congratulations Tyrone!
Well done “The red hands” I thought that you were a bit fond of lying down every other tackle but all in all the best team won. Watch out but its Down’s turn next year!

Good Luck Ireland!
Today sees our first rate rugby team leave the shores of the emerald isle for the kangaroo kingdom of Australia for the world cup… Come on lets show them how it’s done and bring the cup home!!

Liverpool – what are ye at?
Flip sake when Charlton can beat us its time for changes. Lets start at the top and appoint Billy Bingham – lets face it we couldn’t do much worse!

Kentucky Fried Junk Yard
Those who know me will have realised my fondness for a KFC Chicken Fillet burger, you just can’t whack them. Well tonight Charlie Knox and I called into KFC after having a hard earned sauna. I swear I’ve never seen a more filthy branch and I’ve seen a few in my time. EVERY table was full of old burger wrappers, cold chips and discarded half empty drink cups. There was chips and bits of chicken stamped into the tiled floor and more trays, napkins and straws about the place than I thought possible. It was so bad that Charlie felt that he had to do a quick tidy of the place for the staff – and they said there was no such thing as the “new” man!

My question – WHY? What possible reason could there be for such a dysfunctional workplace? What part of the training manual have Kentucky left out that McDonalds haven’t….. and why doesn’t it dawn on them?

Evangelizing Parrot
Just when you think you've seen it all ... a story like this appears. In regards to the missing "preaching parrot" ... the following quotations are taken from an article in yesterday's Saskatoon Star Phoenix.

An Alberta man says the devil may have caused his sermonizing parrot to fly the coop last month--but he's hoping God will lead the bird home this weekend. The fire-and-brimstone preaching parrot, named Solomon, disappeared ... on August 3.

"I truly believe Satan terrorized him and he flew out of there so scared ..." said (the 51-year-old owner).

Solomon disappeared just weeks before he was to appear at a Christian jamboree in Coronation, Alberta, to recite a prayer inviting sinners to be saved.

"He was going to give an altar call just like Billy Graham. An altar call is when you invite people to come forward and accept Jesus Christ as their personal saviour," (the owner) said. Taken from Linsay Martens Blog

Question of the day
Why do I insist on filling the kettle to the brim every time I go to boil it? There's only two people in this house and ones not a frequent tea/coffee drinker. What a waste of electricity....

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy! Exodus 20
Sporadically over the past few months I’ve been chasing the answer to the following questions - What is a Sabbath? What does it mean by keeping it holy? You know I can’t really answer either question to my satisfaction, however I can probably tell you more of what its not than by what it is.

I know that it’s not running yourself into the ground with 4 or 5 church meetings throughout the day. I did this for a sizeable part of my youth and all it left me with was a sense that to be holy was to be assessed by how many meetings you could attend. Now I know that to be false because I was attending all that came my way and I’d go as far as to say that I rarely personally encountered Christ. What it did do was give me a sickner of organised religion. In fact it even give me a deep routed suspicion of people, Christianity and the motives within.

I also know that its not watching 5 – 6 hours of TV whilst doing the rounds with the family. I’ve done that too for a few years and its not holy nor restful in the spiritual sense. Its good but is it a sabbath? - What would make it different from a Saturday?

So what is a “Sabbath” and what does it mean to keep it holy?

I accept it could look different for other individuals but I’m believe that it’s a day that’s two fold in many senses. That I bring to him my worship, that I spend quality time with him, where communication is clear and participative and where there is restoration and renewal. So what should that look like?

My pondering travels on....

Today I lost a good friend I never met.
I really only expect this to happen once in my life but today I’m mourning for a friend of mine whom I never met but yet has influenced me far beyond anyone else in entertainment – Johnny Cash. Johnny Cash was first introduced to me by my father who has been a life long fan. Initially we didn’t get on but as I’ve often joked, my dad battered him into my DNA whether I wanted him to or not. As a result in times of difficulty and hurt I often turned to Johnny’s music, his voice surrounding me like a blanket of comfort.

If I was put in a corner and asked what one thing did Johnny teach me that had such an effect I’d have to say this. In Johnny’s life I clearly saw Jesus. There’s no doubting it Johnny had a hard life, often fell victim to temptation, but yet always without compromise told God’s story of love and Jesus’s of forgiveness. He demonstrated humility – if someone with his status could repent then why couldn’t I? He exuded faith – if someone like him needed to believe and did then why didn’t I?

I suppose when I’ve watched films of Elvis’s or John Lennon’s funeral I’ve often mocked the thousands of tear shedding people accusing them of idolatry. However today whilst not necessarily comfortable I understand.

The infamous Blurple Polo has gone......
So what automobile will be next? You never know, keep your eyes peeled - the first to leave a message naming it, its colour and reg gets a prize!! Simba - your excluded...

Wanted!
A flippin new swivel chair. This one has a leg missing meaning that if you sit on it wrong you end up on your face...... Need I say more?

Messenger
I've just installed messenger having not used it for a few years, so should you want the odd chat in cyberspace leave your hotmail address in the comment box!

The thief comes only to steal, and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10 Vs 10

Had coffee yesterday with a bloke who pointed this verse out to me. Have you ever thought that

The theft could be of time promised to God.
The killing could be of your self esteem.
The destroying of your dreams, future, witness, marriage…..

I think it’s interesting that most can quote the latter half of this verse but aren’t even aware of the existence of the first half. The activities listed here I recognise and have been victim of, all of a sudden I’m looking for spiritual armour – How sharp is your sword? (Ephesians 6)

Bits & Pieces – a weekend update…..

A trip to the theatre.
On Thursday night I took Jane to the Opera House to watch a play entitled “How the other half loves”. Now the theatre is not exactly my thing but a wee tip to those male readers who are married – an unexpected trip to the theatre = Mega brownie points!!!!

A trip to the bowling alley & Red Panda.
Took Jane and her parents to the Superbowl where I then kicked their butts at the game. Now that’s delivering a present with style!! We then went to the Red Panda for what was a beautiful meal provided with wonderful service. A wee tip though for those looking to take a loved one out for a meal – Make sure you have the Visa with you if it’s the Red Panda your heading for!

Trout Fishing.
I can’t believe my luck but Jane seems to be developing a passion for fishing. Not one to miss an opportunity to encourage such a healthy interest I took her to a fish farm outside Ballygowan as part of her Birthday weekend. We both caught a fish each and Jane was heard to say – “We must do that again soon!”

The Thrills
I bought their debut album last week entitled “So Much For The City”. It took a few listens but my evaluation of it is that it’s a great album from a band with loads of potential.

Fleetwood Mac are coming to Belfast (8/12/03)
Now thats the best musical news I've heard in ages!

News of the big man….

JOHNNY CASH HOSPITALIZED FOR STOMACH CONDITION
Johnny has been admitted to Baptist Hospital in Nashville due to a stomach condition. According to his manager, Lou Robin, "Johnny is being held for observation and treatment of this stomach condition and should be released within a few days." Hopefully the following pieces of news have helped him on the road to recovery:

"HURT" GETS MTV NOD.
Johnny's video for "Hurt" received an MTV award last night for Best Cinematography. Congratulations to Johnny and Mark Romanek's team!

CMA NOMINATIONS
Johnny has been nominated for the following awards by the Country Music Association:

Single of the Year, "Hurt"
Album of the Year, "American IV The Man Comes Around"
Vocal Event of the Year w/ The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Music Video of the Year, "Hurt"

Congratulations & and get well soon Johnny!

Price slashed - 1998 VW Polo 1.4 CL
Blue, 3 door, 52K miles, full VW service history, electric windows, electric demisting mirrors, Kenwood radio/cassette, central locking, power assisted steering, MOT'd to May '04, excellent condition - never raked nor rallied. £3100 ono

Jane hits her mid 30’s!
Yeah I know its hard to believe, looks are deceiving but from Sunday its official Jane is 33!! Who would have thought that "Mighty Mo" or "Ironside" as she’s affectionately known as within the family would have been such a cradle snatcher! I wasn’t even out of my teens when she made the first cut and as they say “The first cut is the deepest!”.

Jane leaves behind the headland that was Probation…..
And sails right into the port known as Youth Initiatives! From Monday Jane joins the staff team there – God love them! All prayers gladly received.

Welcome to the infamous land of blog Simon Thompson
For those of you who know the name but can't put a face to it - Simon did Y1 last year in Enniskillen, and has been a good mate of mine since I lived in Carryduff. Some call him the puff from the duff but I don't believe the hype!

The Blurple Polo is still for sale - come on someone make an offer.....

1998 VW Polo 1.4 CL
Blue, 3 door, 52K miles, full VW service history, electric windows, central locking, power assisted steering, MOT'd to May '04, excellent condition. £3300 ono

Further details - stuff4petermartin@hotmail.com

A Prayer to the God of Ebb & Flow

Dear Lord, today I thought of the words of Vincent van Gogh: "It is true there is an ebb and flow, but the sea remains the sea." You are the sea. Although I experience many ups and downs in my emotions and often feel great shifts and changes in my inner life you remain the same. Your sameness is not the sameness of a rock, but the sameness of a faithful lover. Out of your love I came to life; by your love I am sustained; and to your love I am always called back. There are days of sadness and days of joy; there are feelings of guilt and feelings of gratitude; there are moments of failure and moments of success; but all of them are embraced by your unwavering love.

My only real temptation is to doubt your love, to think of myself as beyond the reach of your love, to remove myself from the healing radiance of your love. To do these things is to move into the darkness of despair.

O Lord, sea of love and goodness, let me not fear too much the storms and winds of my daily life, and let me know that there is ebb and flow but that the sea remains the sea. Amen.

Henri Nouwen

Welcome Georgina
Just as I thought that we had seen the end of friends joining us an old mucker steps on board! Well George I look forward to reading your thoughts however if you write as fast as I remember you talking the the content will be vast and I'm in for a challenge!

Ukraine
Jane and I would like to wish our fellow Bally Bappers all the best as they depart on a mission trip to Ukraine. May the wind be behind you and the road always rise up to meet ya..... Our prayers & support go with you all!

Investing in your community!
Watch out for a brief series entitled "Investing in your community - small ways to make a big difference." I'm a wee bit nervous as my last series entitled "In conversation with....." fell flat on its face but you never know this one might be a bit more successful. I'm thinking of Wednesdays so keep your eyes peeled.

A word of appreciation:- Currently "ON HOLD"

10 for the weekend and then some……..
Highlights of France

1. Experimenting with new & different cheese.
2. Sitting on the ear pressurising/bashing bottom of a 12 ft deep swimming pool.
3. Admiring the French passion for life.
4. Driving past endless vineyards.
5. Realising that my wee sis (Angela) is as bad a singer as I.
6. Admiring the many cool cars and massive yachts. (You have no idea)
7. Learning from my dads example of servanthood.
8. Developing an obsession for McFlurry Dime. (Not available here)
9. Breaking my addiction to Big Brother.
10. Seeing the end of the Beckham transfer saga.
11. Admiring Jane’s growing sense of confidence in swimming.
12. Watching Angela’s hair react to heat & humidity. (Expansion like you wouldn’t believe)
13. Driving through the French Riviera – absolutely beautiful!

Lowlights of France
1. Without exception seeing no evidence of the Christian Faith in France.
2. Being sickened by the wealth. (Yachts worth millions by the dozen)
3. Experiencing 41 degrees in the shade.
4. Developing water blisters the size of melons on my wee toes.
5. Paying 20 Euros’ (£16) for 5 Cokes.
6. French manners – don’t get me started!
7. Not being able to keep in touch with the current Unionist crisis.
8. Realising that no-one was reading my blog any more!!!!

Banned.
Every six to twelve months Barney our dog remembers the night he watched Shawshanks Redemption and the afternoon he chilled to The Great Escape. He’ll nip out the back under the guise of needing a leak and shimmy behind the green house.

This is a good example of the intelligence I’m up against as this is a place not designed for blokes built for comfort but for speed. To get me behind there is something like a game of fluffy bunnies, were I’m the 12 marshmallows and the space between the green house and fence is the mouth of a ten year old.

Well after a few complaints from next door who are terrified that their dog will eat ours each time he breaks for freedom I decided to find the tunnel. Like one of those screws in the aforementioned movies I had to crawl on my belly and I do mean crawl up the gully between the shed and greenhouse then squeezing myself round the bend to get behind the greenhouse. Never once did I grumble at the previous owners who had put this in place not even when I realised that I was crawling over moss that was holding water like an old abandoned sponge and smelt like it too.

Having arrived at the spot were the offending evidence presented itself I realised that I had brought with me nothing to repair it. To cut an already long story short I had to go through this challenge three times. The fence is now escape proof and all break out movies have now been banned. Well at least from Barnabas! (As we call him when he’s in trouble)

Well I’m off to the South of France for a week and I’ll see you all when I get back!

20 for the weekend – DOUBLE VALUE ROLLOVER.

10 rolling on from last weekend
Careers I've considered in the past.....

1. Chiropodist
2. Policeman
3. Taxi driver
4. Teacher
5. Sales
6. Mechanic
7. Fish & Chip fryer
8. Social worker
9. Postmaster
10. Truck driver

Double value for you the reader
10 people who should have/use a blog......

1. Georgina Seymour
2. Paul Coles
3. Angela Martin
4. Niall Nixon
5. Helen Warnock
6. Neil Harrison
7. David Dunlop
8. John Johnston
9. Lynda Gould
10. Allan Grier

A word of appreciation: For the good time I had with the young people from the EDGE last night. Never have I seen uglier people in my life! However I've rarely experienced warmer.

Would you want to be President?
Look what happens when a President gets elected in a year with a "0" at the end. Also notice it goes in increments of 20 years.

1840: William Henry Harrison (died in office)
1860: Abraham Lincoln (assassinated)
1880: James A. Garfield (assassinated)
1900: William McKinley (assassinated)
1920: Warren G. Harding (died in office)
1940: Franklin D. Roosevelt (dies in office)
1960: John F. Kennedy (assassinated)
1980: Ronald Reagan (survived assassination attempt)
2000: George W. Bush ?????

And to think that we had two guys fighting it out in the courts to be the one elected in 2000. You might also be interested in this. Have a history teacher explain this, if they can.


Abraham Lincoln was elected to Congress in 1846.
John F. Kennedy was elected to Congress in 1946.

Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860.
John F. Kennedy was elected President in 1960.

Both were particularly concerned with civil rights. Both wives lost their children while living in the White House.

Both Presidents were shot on a Friday.
Both Presidents were shot in the head.

Now it gets really weird.
Lincoln's secretary was named Kennedy.
Kennedy's Secretary was named Lincoln.

Both were assassinated by Southerners.
Both were succeeded by Southerners named Johnson.

Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was born in 1808.
Lyndon Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, was born in 1908.

John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Lincoln, was born in 1839.
Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated Kennedy, was born in 1939.

Both assassins were known by their three names.
Both names are composed of fifteen letters.

Now hang on to your seat !!!!
Lincoln was shot at the theater named 'Ford.' Kennedy was shot in a car
called 'Lincoln' - made by 'Ford.'

Booth and Oswald were assassinated before their trials.

And here's the kicker .......
A week before Lincoln was shot, he was in Monroe, Maryland.
A week before Kennedy was shot, he was with Marilyn Monroe.

Creepy huh?

A word of appreciation:- For Fleetwood Mac's new album "Say you will"

Peter conquers Slieve Croob!
Had my first walk up Slieve Croob on Friday. Having got to the top I couldn’t believe the mess the broadcasting masts have made. I really did expect to look over Ballynahinch, see my wee house and pray for the people below – was I disappointed! That said, I’m sure there is a way to get the view I was looking for but my guide was lacking in local knowledge which is what you get when you use a Canadian foreigner. The fellowship was good and the jokes even better. Its been 4-6 weeks since I last exercised and I can tell you my body didn’t half let me know. The following morning even my arms were stiff (Bizarre I know)….

Paul and I then went into Newcastle were we had some spectacular sweets in Café Crème – an all round great afternoon!

A word of appreciation:- For our deputy prime ministers sense of humour!

Ten for the weekend!
Careers I just couldn't have done

1. Soldier
2. Working in a graveyard
3. Accountant
4. Politician
5. Minister
6. Doctor
7. Retail manager
8. Vet
9. Outdoor pursuits instructor
10. Solicitor

Steve Stockman
Came across Stocki's web site. Now don't get me wrong I don't know him nor am I name dropping but his writings are real interesting. I'm not talking about the U2 stuff which I've a few questions over but the other stuff. Particularly the Kevin Ponders bit under the caress and colide section - check it out!

A word of appreciation: - For the big cheque coming through for the 306. May she rest in peace(s')

The great victory!
Kicked Paul Coles butt this morning at pool 3:1....... Now thats worth shouting about!

A word of appreciation:- For getting an audio bible for my birthday - fantastic - let the experiment begin!!! (See Wednesday April 30th)

9 for the weekend
Things I’ve learnt over the past 2 – 3 weeks

1. Paul & Fiona Coles.
Were and are not pregnant – thank goodness can you imagine what their kid would look like!!

2. Process over result.
A wise friend and colleague said to me that in a time of change or uncertainty its always process over result. Words which have stayed with me ever since.

3. Never take your driving for granted.
On Tuesday 13th May I was involved in a car accident which was severe enough that if God hadn’t of intervened it could have taken me towards my eternal reward. As a result my 306 was written off and looked like a disregarded chip paper – mind you if you snaked out of control at 55mph making you go down a 6ft ditch nose first, turning you on your side, whilst hitting a telegraph pole carrying electricity to Carryduff you wouldn’t look that good either. Cause of accident:- Taking a wet road for granted whilst ignoring the possibility that someone could pull out on me.

4. Nothing hurts more than seeing Jane in pain.
Shortly after the accident Jane came on the scene she turned grey and dumb struck (A rare phenomenon indeed!) . This lasted for a few days but one of the few things she did say cutting to the core of my being was that she had come close to having to organise my funeral. Seeing Jane that upset is a thing I’ll never forget along with the sense that I’d really let her down. All of a sudden a thing I’d always known but had somehow forgotten shock me like a dog with a rabbit – Jane is “THE” most single important person in my life and with the exception of God is the thing I care for most.

5. Never eat a kebab with the car window down.
There I sat with my mate Hugo just a few hours after having written off my car indulging in the comfort of a good kebab. When suddenly a Labrador stuck its head through the window had a large lick of it and ran off. I’ve never seen or heard Hugo laugh so hard…..

6. Turning 30 a time for review.
Last Sunday I turned 30. I don’t think anything else has focused my mind more on were I’m investing my life. Yesterday I heard a good friend say that “We spend the first half of our lives looking for success and the last half looking for significance”. That’s exactly how it feels.

7. Johnny Cash can still deliver.
For my 30th Jane bought me amongst a lot of other things the latest Johnny Cash album called “The Man Comes Around”. It has to be the best album I’ve heard in months and I can understand how it won a few Grammys…… and just went gold! Congratulations Mr Cash.

8. Church members meetings are not short!
As you may or may not know I’ve recently become a member of Ballynahinch Baptist. Last Sunday Bruce, our church secretary, announced that there would be a short members meeting on Wednesday night. Well I took him at his word and at 7.15 on Wednesday night I left the dog with the freedom of the house, the computer on etc – 3 and a half hours later I got into the car to go home.

9. The value of friends.
Over the past few week so many people have spoken into my life too many to mention. Without friends life really would be impossible.

A word of appreciation: For Barney our dog and his never ending friendship.

The challenge!
Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith. Hebrews Ch. 12 Vs. 1 & 2

The review.....
As we all know last week underlined a few things for me and as a result I want to “Throw off everything that hinders”. I’m tempted to write “a few things that hinder” but I’ve again felt a Spiritual challenge to audit my commitment. Now I’m not sure if blogging falls in the category of hindrance but I’m slowing* down my activity for a while to see.
*Slowing does not mean stopping so continue to log in every now and then.

The prayer
Jane and I are both together and individually going through a period of personal and professional development* and at this point we want and need as much focus as possible. Please pray that our focus is Jesus and not on the things that hinder and entangle.
* Don’t confuse development with crisis!

Ten for the weekend!
Things I think should be cheaper

1. The cost of living for pensioners
2. CD’s
3. German cars
4. Glasses
5. Indian restaurants
6. Weddings
7. Water once they start charging in 2006
8. Sports clothing
9. Insurance of all sorts
10. Diesel

Pressure & The Housemartins
I was really feeling the pressure a few days ago between my health, car and job. As usual my mind needed a distraction and I decided to reorganise my CD’s into alphabetical order. I came across an old Housemartins* album called “Now that’s what I call quite good” which basically was their greatest hits album! I didn’t get over excited about it ten years ago when I bought it but I tell you, today I’m loving it! The purchase and band were way ahead of their time!

*For the ignorant The Housemartins were the band that The Beautiful South came out of – and if you haven’t heard of them your far to young to be reading this!!

The week from hell
It has been a really long time since I had as pressured a week as I’ve had this past week. As usual when things are really bad you see your true colours and I have to say with some of them I was pretty disgusted. I had a conversation with Dave Dunlop this week and it blew my mind – I off loaded that much that it probably blew his too, sorry Dave! One of the things he said which hit me like a sledge hammer was that worry is really a lack of faith. Now like me you’ve probably heard that a thousand times but on this occasion the truth of it seemed to hit me like a runaway steam train! Sorry to sound like an old tory government minister but we need to “get back to basics” or at least I do! Sometimes I think that we get so busy, distracted, focused, sophisticated, goal oriented, etc that we lose the plot. I hold my hand up and say that I did this week and having got to this extent I have been for a number of weeks!

A word of appreciation:- For Dave, Neil, John & Paul who all listened and supported – what would you do without mates?

A word of apology: - To my colleague and friend who I took my frustration out on, on Friday afternoon. I’m just so glad that you are far more level headed and forgiving than I am. In retrospect it’s a god-incident (as JD would say rather than a coincident) that we work so closely or at least within ear shot.

Remembering scripture like music!
I’ve been chewing on this some more (See last Saturday “Old Albums”) and I think there’s another few reasons why music and albums are more easily remembered than scripture….

1. If you listen to an album 10 times you’ve invested say 10 hours approx. When was the last time I focused 10 hours on the equivalent bible content – say 10 chapters?
2. If you sing along, a thing I’ve been known to do your engaging your memory as well as mind. Would it be better to read scripture aloud?
3. I allow music to stimulate my heart, mind, and emotions. How often have I allowed scripture to invade more than my intellect?

I’ve always believed in the importance of meditating on scripture and part of that I believe is to memorise it. After all Joshua 1 Vs 8 tells us to meditate on it day and night. Therefore I believe its right that we should invest in and exhaust every avenue open that assists us in this task. So if you can think of a few more share them out!!

MOT
I can’t believe it – yes the car failed….. I’m not that annoyed about it but I could do without the hassle and expense. I just can’t wait to change the thing. Don’t get me wrong its not a bad car and in fairness to it, it does have 111,316 miles on the clock. I suppose I’m just too busy for the hassle it occasionally gives me.

A word of appreciation: - For pain killers! My jaw, ear, and glands have all appreciated them greatly recently – it’s a pity I can’t say the same for my gut!

Therapy
Its always good to come home from a really bad day and catch up with people’s lives through the blog. Deb’s last article looking at a missionary from the 30’s is really interesting, Charlie’s blurb about Fiona having a bun in the oven is hysterical (Particularly Paul’s comments of surprise), and this girl Olga from Moldova showing an unhealthy interest first in Niall and then in any man with a pulse just takes me to the fair…..

Prayer request
Folks its looking like I’ve either got an ear infection, a swollen gland in my neck or ….. wait for it….. one of my other wisdom teeth is now giving gip! Please pray that the doctor on Thursday can identify the problem and that its not the third option. Oh and my cars MOT is tomorrow send a few up that she passes without any nasty shocks!

A word of appreciation:- For the good job “Real Cycles” did in servicing my bike!

Old Albums
Recently I listened to an album from a band called “The Adventures”. I’m sure I haven’t listened to that album for at least 4 – 5 years or more and it still sounds great. The thing that hit me about it was that although it had been a very long time since I had listened to the album I still knew most of the words to all of the songs and even more surprising still knew the running order so well that I could accurately predict what song was coming next. My question – how come I don’t remember scripture like that? And would the bible on CD help?

Harley Davidson
Had a great day with Hugo yesterday. We went looking for a new gun for him up in a shop in Toome and then over to Ballymena for a Jeff Duke at the Harley Davidson store. It was a real blokes day and one that was very much welcomed - the problem is its left me with the desire to become a biker!

A word of appreciation:- For Tony Hadley winning “Reborn in the USA” I couldn’t have taken it if Michelle Gayle had of won!

Ten for the weekend!
Some of my favourite sounds

1. My sister Bev’s burps (I’ve never heard anyone come even close to the quality of hers)
2. Waves at the beach
3. The wind through trees
4. The rain in a tent
5. The banjo
6. A steam train
7. The Derry accent
8. The pan pipes
9. A Ducati motorbike
10. A purring cat

War Child
Sixty million people have been killed in wars during the 20th Century. As you read this, over 30 wars and conflicts rage around the world. Some fill our TV screens with appalling images of distress, emphasising war’s brutalising effect on man. Many of these wars go unreported, often due to political expediency or lack of interest.They reveal a shaming pattern: Over 80% of war casualties are now civilians - mainly women and children. Children are amongst the first casualties of any armed conflict, always the most vulnerable and innocent of victims.In the last decade alone 1.5 million children have died in wars. Four million have been disabled and a further 10 million traumatised. The severe psychological wounds that war inflicts on children can scar them for life, crippling the very generations that must one day re-build their devastated countries. For the future peace of the world we must do everything in our power to help these war children.

War Child is a network of independent organisations working across the world to help children affected by war. War Child stands on the twin beliefs: that we’re not free to ignore an innocent victim’s plea for help and that children are the seed-corn of society, its future hope. War Child interprets the term ‘war zone’ to include areas of current armed conflict, areas where children are still suffering from the devastation of war leaves in its aftermath; and areas where children’s lives are in jeopardy due to poverty, violence and disease.

War Child’s Aims
1. To alleviate the suffering of children by bringing material aid into war zones.
2. To support those children who have been evacuated into refugee camps.
3. To initiate rehabilitation programmes once children return safely to their homes. This includes identifying needs for capital reconstruction projects.
4. To be instrumental in healing the psychological damage caused to children by their experiences of war.

Hope
I tell you what - I haven't bought their new fundraising album "Hope" featuring Avril Lavigne, Travis, Moby, Charlatans etc but after reading this its on my list!

A word of appreciation: - For my dad who not only papered our living room yesterday but is thinking of selling me his car in August instead of October!!!! What a guy....

Panchen Lama Birthday Campaign
Tomorrow, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima will be 14 years old. He will have spent eight years being held by the Chinese authorities because of who he is.

In 1995, he was just six years old when following his recognition as the 11th Panchen Lama (Panchen Lama is a title like Vice-President or Prime Minister that Tibetans give to the second greatest leader of Tibet.) by the Dalai Lama, Gedhun and his family were abducted by the Chinese authorities. These same authorities were desperate to control the top Tibetan Buddhist positions as a means of combating the political dissent that emanated from the ranks of nuns and monks in the late 1980s and 1990s.

Despite requests from the UN and numerous governments, the Chinese authorities have so far refused to allow impartial international observers to meet with Gedhun and his family to check on their health and well-being. For more information on Tibet and related issues check out Free Tibet

On the road again
Got up early this morning (06.30) and got my bike out. I was gutted to see the state it was in. I bought it say 4 - 5 years ago and put 250 miles on its clock winter came in and I didn't get serious about it again. Now the GT after being in the shed for a few years is rusty, the tyres are flat and the gears need a service....... You know I always wanted a Kona and I'm coming 30 next month! Naaa maybe not.

A word of appreciation: - For the great night I had last night at Hugo & Sue Dales and for the great pleasure I took in watching Man Utd being stopped in their tracks with their obsession for European glory!!

UK says it may dump more nuclear waste in Irish Sea after 2006
Britain said in December that it might have to dump radioactive pollution stockpiled at its Sellafield nuclear reprocessing plant into the Irish Sea after 2006 as tanks storing the waste age and may become unsafe.

Environment Minister Michael Meacher said the government was researching ways to store the waste permanently onland but if this was not successful, then the radioactive liquid technetium-99 kept in offshore tanks may be dumped in the sea. "If the tanks can't take it beyond 2006, then we might have to look at an alternative solution... to discharge (their contents) into the Irish Sea quickly," Meacher told a news conference. Britain admits the waste has been found in lobsters but says there is no evidence it has accumulated in fish. (Editor: "What do they take us for?")

Ballynahinch Triumphant....
Yesterday Jane & I went down to Ravenhill to watch Charlie and his mates play in the Crawford Cup Final against Ards. It was a great afternoon filled with craic and banter with Andrew Edgar (Great photo), Greg, Rachel Kirk and Claire Porter. What was even better was for the Hinch to win 13 – 12 after being down 12 – 0!! I was really impressed with Charlie’s courage in tackling for the ball and his commitment in chasing it! It all brought me back to my rugby playing days which were more renown for brut force and ignorance than skill and tactics. It sort of wet my appetite – so you never know if a rugby club do enough begging I might return to the pitch in September. Now that would be a come back worth seeing!

House Update
Bought some paints and a few taster pots. Even managed to get a taster on a wall! A lazy but great day......

A word of appreciation:- For Greg Knox, who brought slabbering from the sidelines to a whole new level yesterday!!

DROP THE DEBT
The continuing vision of the Jubilee Debt Campaign is a world in which the people of the poorest countries are liberated from the crushing burden of debt, and in which the future financial arrangements between rich and poor nations are founded on fairness, accountability and transparency.

Hasn't all poor country debt been cancelled through the campaign in 2000?
No. Only about 15% of the $300 bn plus (1bn = 1 billion = 1000 million) of unpayable debt owed by the 52 poorest countries has been agreed for cancellation (i.e. $50-60 bn). Even less than that has been actually delivered to date.

What more can the UK do?
The promise to cancel 100% of bilateral debts (i.e. those owed to the UK) is welcome, so far as this has actually occurred. But the biggest slice of the debt owed by poor countries is to the so-called multilateral institutions, primarily the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. Together with other rich nations, the UK has a controlling role on these two institutions, and hasn't gone nearly far enough to ensure that they offer deeper and faster debt cancellation.

Doesn't Corruption make debt Cancellation Pointless?
Poor countries didn't invent corruption. Nevertheless it's true that this is a serious issue. The key here is to ensure that debt cancellation occurs in a transparent way. Where this has happened - e.g. in Uganda - grassroots organisations have been able to monitor the process to ensure that money from debt relief is spent on basic services for the poor.

Catch up!
Thank goodness for the holidays - at last I can now get caught up with so much stuff! I've managed to get round to reading a lot of international stuff which I've wanted to do for ages - some of which I'll be sharing with you this week....... and yesterday I caught up with two great movies Oceans Eleven & The Bourne Identity. Does that show you how behind my movie viewing is or what! Both movies confirmed to me that Matt Damon is in my top 5 actors.

House Update
Managed to get the bathroom painted (Thanks Dad), the kitchen painted (Thanks Dad) the first coat of the ceiling in the bedroom done (Thanks Dad) and the living room totally stripped of wallpaper (Thanks to Jane & myself). I once called my dad "Wee Iron Man Rob" after yesterday I think we'll call him "Wee Iron Man With Heck Of Big ENGINE Rob!!"

A word of appreciation:- For fitness, working on the house is so much easier with it!

FREE BURMA! burmacampaign.org.uk or freeburmacoalition.org

Burma, a country of 47 million people is ruled by fear. A military machine of 400,000 soldiers denies a whole nation its most basic rights. Aung San Suu Kyi, pro-democracy leader and Nobel Peace laureate, symbolises the struggle of Burma's people to be free. Her Party, the National League for Democracy (NLD) won 82% of the seats in the 1990 election. The people of Burma overwhelmingly rejected military rule yet the military continues to refuse to transfer power to Burma's democratically elected leaders. Aung San Suu Kyi has spent many years under house arrest and prevented from seeing her family. She was released from house arrest in May 2002. Hundreds of her supporters are still detained, many suffering torture and in some cases death. Her message is a simple one - that only by fighting fear can you truly be free - a message Burma's military aims to silence. U2's Grammy winning song Walk On is dedicated to Aung San Suu Kyi.

House Update
Jane and I have moved into another bedroom, emptied our own of furniture and emptied our living room of furniture! We have also semi stripped both rooms of wallpaper. Today sees the arrival of the calvary in the form of Robert & Anneline Martin (Thank goodness). By the end of the day we hoped to have totally stripped both rooms of wallpaper, got the new wallpaper up and even some got painting done. Should anyone else take the head staggers and fancy giving us a hand please feel free - we’d love the help and company!

Wishing Charlie Knox all the best for the Crawford Cup Final
The Crawford Cup Final will take place at Ravenhill on Easter Tuesday (22nd April) between Ards 2nd and Ballynahinch 3rd. Kick off is at 2.30 p.m. and the entry price is £5.00 for adults and £2.00 for children.

A word of appreciation: - For wallpaper that comes off in long easily removed strips!

Recruitment
Following on from David S’ comment yesterday I’ve managed to find two willing recruits to help me in achieving yesterday’s “Ten for the weekend”. Thanks Mum & Dad you really are the best in the world. Should anyone else take the head staggers and fancy giving us a hand please feel free - we’d love the help and company! What a way to spend your week off – should I get a moment I’ll give you wee updates throughout the week!

Inspiration
Well between the good weather and Debs’ new site I felt inspired to tinker about a bit with my links. I took a few off like MTV and Tiso and added a few that would reflect the time of the year and my desire to get active. I also introduced a few new categories again working with the theme of “Sailing across this blue ocean called life". Links to note include Summerserve, NI Tourist Board, Walking in NI, Fishing in NI, Sustrans and The Hunger site.

Sustrans
Of the new links this one drew my attention most. It basically is a site that belongs to the charity currently campaigning for cycle lanes across the UK. Make sure you check out the map of Northern Ireland which shows you the many across our province. I feel a challenge coming on to try and do them all over the next few years! You up for it? Fancy joining me on a few?

The Skipper's Log
I’m particularly proud of this wee bit of structural engineering where I have managed to create a second page just for my archives. This saves me from having that horrendous list of archive dates down the side of my main page – I’m a boy genius I’m telling ya! I think I may also compile a list of all the “10 for the weekend” on that page when I get a minute away from decorating.

A word of appreciation: - For my mate “Ivan the builder” who’s managed to get Jane & I some brand new kitchen units for our utility room at a very highly discounted rate – you’re a hero mate!

Ten for the weekend!
The Easter to do list.....

1. Clear & clean the guttering.
2. Power hose the patio.
3. Cut the grass.
4. Sand down and varnish the front & back door.
5. At long last put the finishing touches to the bathroom.
6. Clean the windows.
7. Gut the attic and sell anything half decent at a car boot sale.
8. Get the house accounts into some sort of shape.
9. Move into the spare bedroom & redecorate our own.
10. Keep this list from Jane & procrastinate for another year.

A Friday funny:- Click on the link and make sure your speakers are on - you'll laugh your legs off!!!

Celebration of Unity!
Tonight’s communion service held in Edengrove Presbyterian (At 8pm) brings to a conclusion the united Easter services within Ballynahinch. If you’re up for it I’d encourage you to attend this service which provides an ideal setting for the individual to get intimate with God in unity with their fellow communal believers.

Taken from Jesus’ final prayer …..
“May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” John 17 Vs 23

A word of appreciation: - Thank goodness it's Friday - I thought you'd never come!

Unity - its IMPORTANT!
Don't forget the United Easter Services for the next two evenings - tonights is at Ballynahinch Baptist at 8pm. Last nights service in 1st Presbterian was a cracker although I was surprised at the total lack of youth present! Andrew Montgomery was involved in the drama and is now up for a BAFTA..... I'm just wondering what surprises I'll be missing tonight as it's not looking likely I'll be able to go :(

Thought for the day.....
"Delayed obedience is really disobedience" - Rick Warren "The Purpose Driven Life"

142
Would you believe it BT will soon be closing down directory enquiries and will be launching a similiar service but at twice the price!! Due to legal pressure they have also had to open the market to other providers who will also be charging similiarly high amounts. Therefore courtesy of "petemartin.blogspot.com" we would like to offer you a free link to the Yellow Pages - eyes left and down abit.... What will they think of next to make money?

A word of appreciation:- For the preparation of my car for MOT only costing £360 - it could have been worse.... I think?

Unity
Don't forget to support the United Easter Services for the next three evenings - starting tonight at 1st Presbyterian at 8pm. This is our opportunity to further build and be soaked in the local community!

Wanderlust
Check my new link out - freshly ripped off from Debs site. It's a class magazine for those who dream of unusual holidays all over the world. Debs once warned me that it would scar and leave me with the travel bug forever should I read it! So be warned......

Beautiful
What weather we're getting at the moment - isn't it fantastic!! I can't get over the boost in mood it can provide. May it not be our summer and may it stay long after "May"!

A word of appreciation:- For the forthcoming holidays - two more days and they're here!

Success comes to those who wait!
Peter has eventually got a convert to blog found in Debs Erwin! Debs is a great friend and colleague who lives and works in Dungannon. Debs is responsible for the ministries of Dungannon YFC and no doubt will bring an interesting slant to the art of bloggin as she has to the work in Dungannon! Add her to your links folks and welcome her to the community blog!!

Joke of the day.....
Q: What does Saddam Hussein's son say on the way out the door to school?
A: Have you seen my bag dad?

Weight Update
Yes, today at my Tuesday weigh in I hit the 19st 4lbs mark.... Meaning that I've now lost 2lbs a week for the last 14 weeks bringing my total to 2 stone!

Debate mate.....
Check out & join in with the debate that came from yesterday's blog - there's some high quality comments coming in and my thanks to all of those who have so far thrown in their 10p's worth.

A word of appreciation:- For the forthcoming holidays - 3 more days and they're here!

Question.....
God is more interested in the work he can do in us, than through us. - True or false?

A word of appreciation:- For the concept of rest however hard I find it to realise!

Worship is.....
Worship is far more than praising, singing, and praying to God. Worship is a lifestyle of enjoying God, loving him, and giving ourselves to be used for his purposes. When you use your life for Gods glory, everything you do can become an act of worship.

How can I bring glory to God?
There are many ways to bring glory to God but they can be summarised in Gods 5 purposes for your life.

1. We bring God glory by worshiping him.
2. We bring God glory by loving other believers.
3. We bring God glory by becoming like Christ.
4. We bring God glory by serving others with our gifts.
5. We bring God glory by telling others of him.

Taken from Rick Warren "The Purpose Driven Life"

A bad hair day!
Barney our Cairn Terrier got his hair cut the today as the warmer weather is starting to move in. Now I don't know what Sinead his hairdresser was thinking but she decided after giving him a short back and sides to leave his tail bushie. He looked a bit like a terrier who wants to be a poodle. Rest assured but before his mates start taking the mick and calling him "A nice boy" I took the scissors to it and sorted him out! The look of relief on his face was worth it alone.

A word of appreciation:- For my mate "Ivan the builder" who has kindly offered to do a few much needed repairs to my home. A great example of the above No. 4 in action - Thank you!!!

Ten for the weekend!
Cars I'd love a blast in..... (With the decade of production for the more ignorant)

1. RS 2000 Ford Escort (Mark ll) - Early 1980's.
2. Mercedes ML270 CDi - Present day.
3. Vauxhall HSR Chevette (3.0L) - Late 1970's.
4. Porsche 911 - From any decade!!!
5. Triumph TR6 - Early 1970's, I think?
6. VW Golf GT TDI (150bhp) - Present day.
7. Audi S3 - Present day.
8. Vauxhall Firenza (2.3L) - Early 1970's.
9. Alfa Romeo 156 2.4 JTD - Present day
10. Austin Metro 6R4 - Mid 1980's.

The biggest shame.....
The guy who did best man at my wedding and who would be one of my closest friends owns a No. 6 and before that owned a No. 7! I've still to drive either - now thats plain greedy!

A word of appreciation:- For the day dream of driving all of the above!

The prodigal bin.....
Thank the lord, our friend "William" the wheelie bin returned safely from his travels last night. For Jane and I it was a little bit of a prodigal son moment were we were overjoyed to see him home safe and well! Our distress was caused last week when William went AWOL without as much as a farewell note or even evidence of a struggle, kidnapping or theft. Thankfully, he was spotted late yesterday evening standing out on the street alone and a little distance away from our house. Whilst exhibiting a few marks and bruises he seems to be recovering quite well from his trauma! The lesson learnt...... always brand your bin, keep an eye on it and avoid the council charging you 40 - 50 quid for its replacement!

A word of appreciation:- For the two new back tyres on my car - strangely enough she handles a heck of a lot better!

The BBC Dancers.....
Is it just me or are the BBC dancers the most annoying thing on TV - Bring back the hot air balloon NOW!

Congratulations!
Jane & I would like to congratulate Mr & Mrs Dunlop on the birth of their third daughter Kirsten. On like others I'm not going to underline that this is now the third wedding that Dave is going to have to fork out for - however mate this is going to mean a lot of paid overtime - if you can't do the time, you shouldn't have committed the crime!

Ten for the weekend!
petemartin.blogspot.com is offering you the chance to suggest a theme or two for the Friday regular - go on use your imagination and sense of humour and leave a few in the comments box.....

A word of appreciation:- For the support one of the centre staff gave me yesterday - you know who you are - God bless you!

petemartin.org interviews Paul Coles
Hi Paul welcome to the sofa mate, since this feature is new let me explain to my readers what it’s all about. On the occasional Tuesday my plan is to publish a brief interview with a friend or colleague focusing on issues that perhaps are unusual or that you wouldn’t necessarily associate with the interviewee. I hope that we all get something from them, and today I want to discuss with you a little bit about culture - specifically ours and Canada’s.


How long have you been living in Ballynahinch for now and do you like it?
Just over a year and a half and I couldn’t be happier.

What do you miss most about Canada?
I miss my family of course, especially my nephews and nieces. I miss it when they are all together and I can’t be there, and I miss the fact that Fiona can’t be there with them. Next in line would definitely be the weather! I miss the seasons. I miss hot summers where you can wear shorts and sandals every day and when you are too hot you can just jump in the lake. I miss cold winters with snow up to your eyeballs, when you can jump off the roof of your house into snow banks and not get hurt. I miss the first warm days of spring when you know that summer is coming but there are no bugs yet. And I miss the fall, with warm days and crisp nights, when the leaves change into so many colours that no painting could do them justice.

What shocked you the most about northern Irish culture?
Probably the harshness of some people. People do not care much about other people’s feelings. Instead of being sensitive to our brothers and sisters we say “it ill harden them.” I don’t like that. I was also shocked about people’s lack of regard for the environment. Our streets our practically rubbish bins and we don’t recycle anything. We live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world and no one seems to care.

What would you say is the biggest difference between church in Canada and church here?
I think that church is very similar and very different at the same time. The real difference is that there is just a greater spectrum of everything. There are tightwad churches and liberal churches, charismatic churches and barely audible churches. Just a lot more of them. One thing that might be different is that there are probably more churches involved in social action (feeding the poor, housing, job training, etc…) Having said that, the last church I went to in Canada was very similar to the one I go to now, except bigger.

What would some of the most obvious differences be between youth culture here and there?
With people I think the old saying, “same sh*#, different package,” applies rightly. Kids are kids and there issues just manifest themselves in different ways in different places, but they always have the same issues. Probably the biggest thing though is the undisguised hatred and bigotry. People here are very open about what they do and don’t like here. Canada is a very politically correct country so even if you think certain things, people aren’t as willing to express them as openly. Also in Canada most kids have no concept of church or religion, where as here most people define themselves by their “religious” background. Finally, the most superficial thing of all would be clothes. Style is very different in Canada, although it is starting to creep in here. Kids wear much baggier cloths as opposed to the tight jeans and shell suits that kids wear. I think people dress better in Canada in general.

You know I've heard it said that the man who swears is a man that can't express himself.... Moving swiftly on - If you had to pick one part of Canadian culture that your glad to see the back of what would that be?
Excess! Everything is big in Canada. People have more disposable income and it shows. Houses are huge, cars are huge, refrigerators are huge. People have bigger summer homes there than any homes here period. North America uses up way more than its share of the worlds resources and that really bugs me.

What part of Irish culture would you miss the most should you move again?
Community. I am very fortunate to be part of an amazing community here in Ballynahinch and I would miss that very much if I went back. Even though there is a lot of hate in this country, community is still a very important thing. Maybe this is due to how rural Ireland is, but I like it. Along those lines is the hospitality of people. I love how people always invite you into their homes and offer you tea, coffee and biscuits. It is a trend that definitely needs to continue and I would miss it if I left.

Have you a parting thought for us?
Yep. For all you guys out there I have two things to tell you. If a woman can’t find you attractive, at least she should find you handy, and keep your stick on the ice.

Thanks Paul – May God bless you and all who sail with you!

www.church.co.uk
Thought you guys might be interested in this site. Its run by Steve Chalke’s organisation OAS!S. It boasts 100 differing discussion boards looking at everything from would Jesus have supported this war to the new Church. Since going on-line it’s had well over 6000 messages placed on it and generally seems a cool place to surf check it out – it's called "God's House"

Watch this space on Tuesday!
This Tuesday petemartin.blogspot.com will bring you a new stimulating & regular article to accompany Fridays regular “Ten for the weekend” and the daily "A word of appreciation". Can you feel the tension and expectation in the air - who says you don’t get your value for money here?

Football - am I a scud?
I found myself asking this question after Liverpool were slaughtered today at the hands of Man United. To bring comfort I then drifted to my other teams such as Linfield, and Northern Ireland but comfort was not to be found. Someone tell me that Ballynahinch is doing well..... please!

A word of appreciation:- For Fiona Coles cooking breakfast this morning!! Her pancakes, bacon and scrambled eggs were to die for! All I need to do now is find another excuse to get invited back for a second feast of the same….. yum yum!

Ten for the weekend!
So good they're worth a re-read.....

1. Charlie Knox - "Henry Nouwen defines spiritual discipline" - Tuesday 18th Feb 03
2. Paul Coles - "Just like Joe" - Monday 24th March 03
3. Rachel Kirk - "Jeremiah 29 vs. 11" - Tuesday 18th March 03
4. Lesley Prentice - "Mr. Kamara" - Sunday 16th February 03
5. Stu Neill - "War" - Thursday 27th March 03
6. Niall Nixon - "Irish Christian surfers mission statement" - Sunday 23rd February 03
7. Peter Martin - "10 moments that still fill me with cringe" - Friday 21st March 03
8. Charlie Knox - "Church reconsiders teaching priorities" - Monday 24th February 03
9. Paul Coles - "Back on the road again" - Monday 10th February 03
10. Greg Knox - "A wee puzzle" - Thursday 4th February 03

IMPORTANT
Make sure you get down to The EDGE's prayer meeting - tomorrow at 10am

Get well soon Johnny!
The Man in Black, Johnny Cash, was released from a hospital in Nashville on Tuesday, following a lengthy battle with pneumonia. Cash, 71, was admitted to Baptist Hospital on March 10. Congratulations are also due to Mr. Cash for being named the "Greatest Man in Country Music" by Country Music Television (CMT).

A word of appreciation - For my Dad, a good man who's company I really enjoyed today as we walked around the Castlewellan Forest Park boundary - 6 miles. (Most of which felt like the path was at 45 degrees)

IMPORTANT!!!
Make sure you get to The EDGE’s prayer meeting – this Saturday at 10am……

Entering a competition…..
Today I put my money were my mouth is and entered a competition in our gym. To enter you pay £10, you’re then weighed, and whoever has lost the most lbs. scopes the lot!!! No excuses April’s going to be a tight month. Have I told you that it’s been 12 weeks since I last had chocolate or chips!!!!

Found to be both good & just
About 12 months or so I applied for a job with ECONI. For those in the dark it’s a faith based socio-political organisation who aim to facilitate biblical thinking that builds long term peace. Today I was at a retreat were the girl who got the job facilitated the whole thing. She did a fantastic job and although sometimes I still think I would have loved the job and the challenge it would have presented it was obvious that she was perfect for it – Gods sovereignty and will whilst not making sense at the time was found to be just and good today!

A word of appreciation:- For Robbie Williams album “I’ve been expecting you”

IMPORTANT!!!
Make sure you get to The EDGE’s prayer meeting – this Saturday at 10am……

Stolen
Can you believe it, our black wheelie bin was stolen on Tuesday, and if reports are to be believed the council charges £50 to replace them.

25%
Last Tuesday I weighed in at 19st 7lbs – a significant mile stone on my journey …..

 I’ve now lost 25lbs – 25% of my target
 I’m now in the single figure lbs of the 19st bracket.
 I’m only 3lbs away from having lost 2st

God’s hand
I’ve been praying into specific areas of my life to gain some guidance and a sense for where God is in the issues. To be honest I’m wondering if I’m deaf. Perhaps you would send a few up that I’d receive healing from my deafness and that I would not only know God’s guidance but feel his presence.

A word of appreciation:- For the current Mrs Martin (Jane) - as from tomorrow she’s been married to me for 5 long years. Thanks Mighty Mo – you’re my soul buddy and I adore and love you more now than I ever did!

The river of comments
Comments are still following in on the the post entitled "A stained soul?" Have you had your say yet? - Just click the link to throw in your 50p's worth Thursday 20th "A stained soul?"

A word of appreciation:- For broadband arriving in work - bloggin...... I mean work has just got so much more easier & cheaper!

In conclusion.....
I'm sure you'll be glad to hear that this is my last article on war for what hopefully will be a long time as I feel that I've said all that I want to say. I want to start by directing you to the recent writings of both Niall & Stu on their varying opinions on the current war and to encourage you to allow both their viewpoints to influence your thinking. I suppose that my writings would indicate that I do not support the war. However I feel that my purpose and desire is to encourage others to come to an opinion. In reality theres good arguements for both viewpoints and I think that people are within their rights to decide either way. However what gets on my nerves is the apathy I've come across amongst people who couldn't be bothered to come to a decision content to watch the TV everyday like some sick reality TV series. Charlie asked some important questions in a comment he left on one of my earlier writings and I too want to conclude by asking them.

What does it mean to be a christian under the current world circumstances?
How should the war on our doorsteps be effecting our lives?
What can we do within our arena to bring Christ in these unfortunate times?

A word of appreciation:- For the continued good weather!

10 for the weekend!
Some of my favourite places in my home province – Ulster.

1. Ballywalter & Ballyhalbert Harbour.
2. Sandown Mount – East Belfast.
3. Nendrum Monastery – Just past Castle Espie Bird Sanctuary, Comber.
4. The Quoile Estuary – Downpatrick.
5. Rostrevor/Warrenpoint coastline.
6. Downings – Donegal.
7. Botanic Gardens – Belfast.
8. Strangford/Ballyhornan coastline.
9. Whitepark Bay Beach.
10. Belfast City Hall.

Human power = dung, so know and demonstrate the marks of Spiritual power!
Pauls talks of the flesh meaning human-initiated activity with out the aid of divine grace. People can do many things in the power of the flesh, but they cannot do the work of the Spirit of God. Paul states that he had given up on the power of the flesh recognising that it relied on such things as position, money and connections and counting those things as “dung”. Now when we see people desperately scrambling for the “dung” – human power – we can be sure that they know precious little of the “Power of Christ’s resurrection”

Love is the first mark of spiritual power. Love demands that it be used for the good of others. Notice Jesus’ use of power – the healing of the blind, the sick, the maimed, the dumb, the leper and many others. The second mark of spiritual power – humility. Humility is power under control and is teachable. In the course of his powerful ministry, Peter made some serious mistakes, but when confronted with his errors he had the humility to change! Taken from “Seeking the Kingdom” Richard Foster

Emma Duncan enter's the world of blog - welcome!

A word of appreciation:- For being born in Ireland with its climate, culture & people.....

The Blind Boys.....
As most of you will know I have a passion for music, music of all sorts really with the exception of rave, techno and its like. Whilst I’m not musical myself I love how it massages and carries you through life. However, I’ve often wondered why so much “Christian” music is so poor and to be honest I’m often frustrated with its lack of diversity and quality. A few weeks ago I purchased an album by the “Blind Boys Of Alabama” and it’s delivered some hope. It’s a band that has been around for 50 years or so and they intermingle gospel music with influences from soul, blues, and jazz. I’d highly recommend them to anyone – you’ll get a taster of them on the new Jools Holland album that came out over Christmas.

To be honest I’m not convinced that we should be dividing the sacred from the secular however should you have come across good faith oriented music please point me in the direction of it below with a comment!

Welcome back Stu Neill
Yes indeed he's back in the land of blog after a long absence with a high quality entry freshly posted today. I don't necessarily agree with what he has to say but it's worth the read. Check it out - link to my left!

Two words of appreciation: One for Jane in celebration of her asking me out 10 years ago today (Highly contested but again true!) and Two for the quality of discussion/comments recently! (Check out Thursday the 20th)

Eleventh-Hour Initiative Could Have Prevented War!
U.S. & U.K. church leaders' moral alternative seriously considered by senior government officials.....

On February 18, 2003, a delegation of U.S. church leaders, accompanied by colleagues from the United Kingdom and the world-wide Anglican Communion, met with Prime Minister Tony Blair and his Secretary of State for International Development, Clare Short, to discuss alternatives to war.

Following this meeting with Tony Blair, the delegation outlined a "third way" to remove Saddam Hussein from power without killing innocent people. The plan called world leaders to:

1. Indict Saddam Hussein for his crimes against humanity and send a clear signal that he has no future in Iraq, setting into motion the internal and external forces that could remove him from power and bring him to trial at the International Court in The Hague. History has shown, as with Slobodan Milosevic, that this can help bring down a criminal regime.

2. Pursue coercive disarmament with greatly intensified inspections backed by a U.N. mandated multinational force.

3. Foster a democratic Iraq through a temporary post-Hussein U.N. administration, rather than a U.S. military occupation.

4. Organise a massive humanitarian effort through the U.N. and non-governmental relief agencies for the people of Iraq now, rather than only after a war.

5. Commit to implement the "roadmap" to peace in the Middle East, with a clear timetable toward a two-state solution that guarantees a Palestinian state and a secure Israel by 2005.

6. Re-invigorate and sustain international co-operation in the campaign against terrorism, rather than having it disrupted by a divisive war against Iraq that intelligence officials believe will likely lead to further attacks.

As war approached, the 6-point plan became a clear alternative to war and drew serious attention at the highest levels of the British government, U.N., Congress, and even the State Department.

The plan also was featured in an op-ed in The Washington Post and as a full-page ad in five British newspapers.

Had there been more time, a credible alternative to war might have been found. Regrettably, on March 17, 2003, President Bush closed the door on diplomacy and war began 48 hours later.


Taken from “Sojourners” – Christians for justice & peace. As for my viewpoint I think this says it all for me!

A word of appreciation:- That my car stayed between the hedges tonight when she went airbourne somewhere between Dromore and Ballynahinch..... That will teach me not to get to involved the David Bowie album that was on at the time!

Last Night I Had The Strangest Dream
Words and music by Ed McCurdy

Last night I had the strangest dream
I'd ever dreamed before
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war

I dreamed I saw a mighty room
Filled with women and men
And the paper they were signing said
They'd never fight again

And when the paper was all signed
And a million copies made
They all joined hands and bowed their heads
And grateful pray'rs were prayed

And the people in the streets below
Were dancing 'round and 'round
While swords and guns and uniforms
Were scattered on the ground

Last night I had the strangest dream
I'd never dreamed before
I dreamed the world had all agreed
To put an end to war.

TRO-©1950,1951 & 1955 Almanac Music, Inc.
New York, N.Y. Copyrights renewed


This was a song my dad used to sing to me when I was very young and it always brought the goose pimples out on me. Its been sung by various artists down through the years including Simon & Garfungus and Johnny Cash, to name a few. The melody is also very hunting and one that once your reminded of it stays with you for days. I’m very fond of the song for obvious reasons of sentiment and beauty, however I wish that its prophetic voice was just more widely heard and valued.

Ground breaking achievement.....
Well its now official – I’ve lost enough weight to get under the 20st mark. I now weigh 19st 10lbs which means that I’ve lost 22lbs in total. I don’t think I can describe to you what this means to me, other than I’m now giving over to God a stronghold that Satan used to hold over me – To Him be the glory! 1½ stone down – 6 to go! All prayers appreciated!

A word of appreciation:- For the superb lunch a close colleague & friend bought me today!! Thanks Lynda…….

Ten for the weekend!
Moments that still fill me with cringe.....

1. Throwing a cup of tea at a fence seconds before our neighbour popped her head over it.
2. Crying with relief & exhaustion after getting home from a canoe/camping trip with my mate Hugo.
3. Wearing red patient shoes with pride in my youth.
4. Clashing teeth with Jane during our first kiss (Highly contested but her fault!).
5. Talking about “VD” day right the way through a presentation requesting funding for a “VE” day street party.
6. Confusing a massive fart for a tiny one in the presence of the mayor of a suburb of Paris. (I then blamed it on the youth beside me – now that’s the kind of youth work you don’t see every day!)
7. Being caught snogging my girlfriend by her dad when he opened the front door to put out the milk.
8. Being cautioned by the Police after a road traffic incident knowing that the boot was full of undiscovered smuggled diesel.
9. Being blamed by my teacher for an ear drum busting, stomach churning fart my mate let fly in English class – The guy beside me actually turned green!
10. Asking Hadden to include the “Fenian’s Prayer” in our wedding ceremony meaning an “Ephesians’ Prayer”

Coming soon:- Peter goes public with his viewpoint on the current war! For or against?

A word of appreciation:- For having the weekend off!!!!

A stained soul?
A British field marshal whilst speaking with the British & US battalions in Iraq was quoted by the press today as saying - “ Have no mercy on them, they’ve stained souls……..” Flip might he be in for a surprise when God’s through with him! It really made me angry when I thought through the following questions:-

Who armed Saddam during the Iraq/Iran war and then put him into power?
Answer: The USA!

Who gave him the finance to build the infrastructure of his empire?
Answer: France amongst others!

Who sold him the chemicals and weapons of mass destruction?
Answer: Britain, America and most other Western European countries!

Who has a stained hypocritical soul?
Answer:

Another thing that recently got right under my skin was the realisation that Afghanistan and its new government was promised 5 billion after the war to rebuild itself. So far it has only received 1.5 billion and the rest does not look like its going to arrive. Its citizens continue to starve and die. Aid agencies like Tear Fund estimate that it’s going to take more like 15 billion to resolve the country’s problems! Maybe IF war is the best answer we should remain focused and dismantle and rebuild just one country at a time. This hopefully stopping the influences of poverty and injustice from raising yet another monster!

A word of appreciation:- For the informing value of radio!

Is history repeating itself ?
"The only certainty that summer was moral confusion. It was my view then, and still is, that you don't make war without knowing why. Knowledge, of course, is always imperfect, but it seemed to me that when a nation goes to war it must have reasonable confidence in the justice and imperative of its cause. You can't fix your mistakes. Once people are dead, you can't make them undead."

Tim O'Brien
"The Things They Carried." (Reflections on his feelings on being called up to Vietnam.)

Changes a foot.....
In replacing "Album of the day" let me introduce you to "A word of appreciation". The point of it being to widen out my public appreciation to include more than music!

A word of appreciation:- For the beautiful bright weather.......

Happy St Patrick’s day

St. Patrick’s Prayer (Adapted)
Christ before me,
Christ beside me,
Christ be all around.

Album of the day:- U2 “All that you can’t leave behind”

Questions of the weekend…..
Why am I not overly impressed with “Church” yet struggle with criticism of it?
Why do I fail to accept the stance that believes in continual critical analysis?
Why do so many lovers of Christ dislike/struggle/detest his bride?

So as you can see it’s been a weekend that has involved some light thinking blended with a little self discovery. That’s what I think I enjoy most about bloggin – it’s always adds an extra pinch of learning to the journey.

Historical moment!
I found my first grey chest hair yesterday!

Album of the day:- Cancelled due to the enjoyment of silence.

Personalising scripture – keeping it real….
Christ in Peter Martin is patient, Christ in Peter Martin is kind, Christ in Peter Martin does not envy, Christ in Peter Martin does not boast, Christ in Peter Martin is not proud, Christ in Peter Martin is not rude, Christ in Peter Martin is not self seeking, Christ in Peter Martin is not easily angered, Christ in Peter Martin keeps no record of wrongs. Christ in Peter Martin does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth. Christ in Peter Martin always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves, Christ in Peter Martin never fails! 1st Corinthians 13 4-8

Last Summer I spent four days on a strand of ECONI’s summer school entitled “A spirituality for social engagement”. I learnt so much I’d recommend it to anyone. My strand focused on spiritual disciplines and this was one of them. Basically you get into the habit of adapting scripture by adding your name in the text. I’ve found it helpful to take it a step further and physically write it out somewhere. I tell you what but be warned you don’t half waken up with a bang!

Album of the day:- Coldplay "A rush of blood to the head"

Twenty for the weekend – DOUBLE the VALUE!!!
Peter’s achievements within the first quarter of the year

1. I’ve allowed my Visa bill to heal up
2. I’ve managed to get under control the fungi growing under my big toe nail
3. I’ve chosen abstinence over chips & chocolate for 9 weeks
4. I’ve gone to the gym 2-3 times a week
5. I’ve eaten All Bran for breakfast most mornings
6. I’ve included 3-5 portions of fruit & veg a day in my diet
7. I have attended every early Tuesday morning prayer meeting
8. I’ve been brave enough to get 5 fillings in my teeth
9. I’ve along with Jane have drastically reduced the level of arguments
10. I’ve read 2 books

Peter’s disappointments within the first quarter of the year

11. I haven’t managed a single game of pool with Davie Donnan
12. I haven’t gone fishing once
13. I haven’t changed my car (YET!)
14. I haven’t got any house decorating done
15. I haven’t finished reading Dutch Sheets book “Intercessory Prayer”
16. I didn’t get to Anfield to see Liverpool playing
17. I heard Frazier’s being scraped
18. Deirdre/Audrey out of Coronation Street aren’t dead yet
19. I only got to the cinema once
20. I haven’t sold blogging to one single individual

Quote of the day
"America's drunk on power" - Nelson Mandela

Album of the day:- Fleetwood Mac "Greatest Hits"

Bad Taste Alert!
Let the sirens wail as loud as they’ll go. Yesterday outside the High School I witnessed both a stomach churning and shocking sight. Brace yourself, are you sitting down? Yes, a Ford Focus suspiciously like Paul Coles’s with green neon lights below it!! Now I thought that humiliation like this was strictly kept for Corsas and Saxos but NOT for the likes of the Focus…… What’s next 306 D - Turbos or even Megane Coupes????

Memo to self:- Next time I see Paul’s car take a duke below it….

Quote of the day…..
“You’ve nothing to fear but fear itself!” Allan Grier (Of Summerserve fame)
Don’t ask me what the heck it means but it sounded good at the time!

Album of the day:- Bridget Jones’s Diary “The Soundtrack”

Google
Ok it’s true – Google had so many hits on their site from people looking to find mine that they asked could they advertise directly on my blogspot….. What can I do? When you’re good, you’re good!

Album of the day:- The Adventures "Trading secrets with the moon"

The magic square.....

8 3 4
1 5 9
6 7 2


Add any three numbers horzontically or vertically and you’ll always get 15!
For more puzzles check out the new link under entertainment!

Album of the day:- Dave Millen & band "Strange place for Grace"

Quote of the week…..
“Treat a man as he appears to be, and you make him worse. But treat a man as if he were what he potentially could be, and you make him what he should be.” - Goethe (German Poet)

Shop Talk
Recently through attending the early morning prayer meetings I realised that my prayer life had become like that of a taxi driver.

“Fix that, remember him and grant that, over and out!”

Somewhere along the lines my service had become the sole focus of my relationship with God and all language of love, worship and relationship had all but gone. In response I decided that I needed to counter balance this urgently by breathing in some materials that focussed on God, our relationship with him, and ultimately how that should effect our lives. Having been inspired and reoriented I could then reintroduce the language of love and relationship back into my prayer life…..

Book Review
At this point I purchased Max Lucado’s most recent offering “A love worth giving”. It made sense to me to digest a work of Max’s because I’ve known his writing to be flavoured with romance for God as well as having the occasional hint of reality. In reviewing the book I’d evaluate it as one of quality having both importance and value. It’s one of those books that reinforces a lot of what you’ve maybe subconsciously known and felt but been unable to express or put your finger on. It’s a work that answers for me the question of describing the source, ethos and behaviour of Christian love. I’d recommend this book to anyone from a spiritual giant to an infant in faith. Believe me you’ll find it money well spent!

Blue
Colin Truesdale was complaining about the scoots brown colour the background of my blog was coming out. (Doesn’t that make for a disgusting read) Now my computer was reading it as grey and everything was blending quite nicely or so I thought however Lurgan YMCA’s computer was reading it as brown too…. It now should be a darkish blue but do tell me what’s your computer reading it as and help put this mystery to an end – thanks!!

Granny Gladys
My Gran (83) went into hospital today for an operation tomorrow. Nothing too serious however we’d appreciate your prayers…..

Album of the day:- Sting “...all this time”

Ten for the weekend…..
Some of the books that cut their way into my life and left their mark!

1. The Power of Positive Thinking – Norman Vincent Peele
2. Run Baby Run – Nicky Cruz
3. God’s Smuggler – Brother Andrew
4. God’s Dream Team – Tommy Tenney
5. Evangelical Truth – John Stott
6. Father Heart of God – Floyd McClung
7. The Life You Always Wanted – John Ortberg
8. Your God’s Too Safe – Mark Buchanan
9. A Love Worth Giving – Max Lucado
10. The Message – Eugene Peterson

BtE
Don't forget to keep "Beyond The Edge" in your prayers this weekend. This Sunday night Tano is speaking with his theme being grace. Please pray that the holy spirit uses him powerfully and that the message cuts right into the heart of peoples lives....

Album of the day:- Pink Floyd "The Wall"

Touch
I was driving along the Lisburn to Ballynahinch road yesterday when it hit me that one of the things that had me smile and feel refreshed during the weekend had also been an act that was incredibly simple and momentary. A friend of mine in the church has the occasional habit of putting his hand on my shoulder and saying “Alright Peter” as he walks past. There’s rarely conversation but the act of affirmation is one of significance and value.

In the this age of child protection were touch is frowned upon I believe its easy to throw the baby out with the bath water. When was the last time I greeted someone with a warm handshake, hug or even kiss. Now don’t get me wrong I’m not that tactile a person and hugs and kisses are strictly reserved - but isn’t it time I was more generous with my handshakes, shoulder touches, and even putting my arm round someone’s shoulders!

Ps. Leaving comments is also very affirming....... hint, hint, nudge, nudge, wink, wink!

Album of the day:- David Bowie “BBC Radio Theatre, London, June 27, 2000”

Desire
As you know I’ve been exploring the whole area of spiritual gifts and I was reading 1st Corinthians chapters 12 – 14 today when I came across this verse: -

"Eagerly desire spiritual gifts*, especially the gift of prophecy” 1st Corinthians 14 vs. 1

Here’s my question, when was the last time I eagerly desired spiritual gifts or witnessed someone doing so? Gifts such as tongues, prophecy or healing – I’ve never even heard a sermon on it, why is that?

* To define “spiritual gifts” check out 1st Corinthians 12 vs. 8 – 11

Album of the day:- Coldplay “Parachutes”

Ten for the weekend.....
The Most….. (Author Unknown)

The most destructive habit........................Worry
The greatest loss..............................…….Loss of self-respect
The greatest "shot in the arm"...................Encouragement
The most powerful force in life....................Love
The worst thing to be without.....................Hope
The deadliest weapon...........................….The tongue
The greatest asset.............................……Faith
The most worthless emotion.....................Self-pity
The most prized possession......................Integrity
The most contagious spirit .......................Enthusiasm

The EDGE’s prayer meeting!
Yes folks it’s that time of the month again when we call all our supporters and friends to prayer. I believe the EDGE has the potential to transform a generation for Christ but without prayer and God’s favour to take it forward we might as well give up. We need each and every Christian in Ballynahinch to come together in unity and prayer for this transformation to take place and NOW!

It’s not about numbers but it is about peoples hearts!

So if your serious about changing a generation for Christ then get your butt down to the EDGE on Saturday morning at 10 – see you there!

Yes that includes you – all bloggers mentioned on my left!

Album of the day:- Coldplay “Parachutes”

Good to be back in the land of blog!
I just spent the last few days facilitating a piece of work with Lurgan YMCA up on the north west coast and I must say it was great craic!! They’re a great staff team who are easy to work with and who offer a great diversity in character and thought. There was a few classic moments one of which involved the infamous Andrea Massey but I’ll not embarrass her with going public on the detail!! As usual there was a few great quote’s…..

We were in this restaurant “The Copper Kettle” in Bushmills and whilst most people were going for the unhealthy options I tried to order Lasagne and salad and this is what she said to me:

Quote of the past few days…..
“I’m sorry sir but lasagne is out of season”

What?!?!?? If you know what she was on about answers in the comment box below!!

Album of the day:- Lenny Kravitz “Greatest Hits”

Lifted!
Tonight I bumped into and was lifted by two classic blog entries. One made me laugh out loud for ages and the other one left me in wonder at God’s creation & love. Today’s been rough and my blog bank is empty so without further delay let me direct you to them. Thanks lads!

Charlie Knox “Church reconsiders teaching priorities”
Niall Nixon “Irish Surfers Mission Statement”

Album of the day:- Richard Ashcroft “Alone with everybody”

Too busy…..
Yesterday I bumped into an old much loved friend and his wife at Forestside who I haven’t seen for ages. They were out getting their heads showered whilst their son was at “Sparrows” and I was on my weekend hunt for latest artistic bargain to be found at HMV. Through the conversation I realised that his son is now four and in those years I have never once even clapped eyes on him! It left me with the question of were did the time go and how come he wasn’t more prominent in it?

Today in church Dave Dunlop delivered a blistering sermon on the importance of prioritising the poor. One of the scriptures he used which hit me hardest was:-

He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honours God. Proverbs 14 vs. 31

From as long ago as last August I’ve felt God on our (Jane and I) case to review our giving. To our shame we still haven’t got round to it!

My point - perhaps all of us should use Sundays a bit more effectively to have a rest from busyness and to flavour that rest with seeking God and his priorities for the incoming week!

Album of the day:- Elvis "Amazing Grace" - 55 classic songs of faith & inspiration

Paying the price…..
Yesterday my dad and I walked the Tullymore boundary – all 8 miles of it! Now this may be small biscuits to some of you but for me it was nothing short of a miracle. We walked it in 2 hours 35 minutes which apparently is not bad going and certainly a time I was delighted with!

On waking up this morning I felt like the debt collectors had come and gone. So far I’ve counted 4 deep blisters on my feet – two of which contain blood! My legs feel like they’ve gone through a punishment beating and my energy levels are as low as Johnny Adair’s morale!

The good news is that yesterday I lost a further 2lbs – that’s 15lbs since shortly after Christmas. Losing weight has been another journey which maybe one day I’ll share with you but for now I’d appreciate your prayers as I continue to stretch for my target of losing 98lbs.

Speaking in tongues…..
Yesterday a friend of mine who I respect and trust immensely challenged me to pursue in prayer the gift of tongues. Now for a brethren/baptist bloke this is a fairly big challenge and one that certainly will take me out of my comfort zone. He described his experience of it as a beautiful intimacy with God and one that had enabled him to reach incredible depths of prayer and blessing. Now I’m not saying that I’ve come to any conclusions but if I make further progress on the issue you’ll be the first to know!

Album of the day:- Oasis “Heathen Chemistry”

Ten for the weekend…..
Expressions I've used in the past & present

1. Keep her between the hedges
2. Chucking a wobbler
3. As coordinated as a dead pig on ice
4. You “Walter”, “Wallie” or “Tube”
5. Let the dog see the rabbit *
6. On the sniff
7. I Your ma...
8. You "Millbag" or “Spiderman
9. Keep her lit
10. We’re fairly sucking diesel now

* = my favourite at the moment meaning get out of the way and let me do the job!

Quote of the week…..
“He must have been raging! Let me tell you for Ferguson to kick a boot from the floor to Beckham’s head took some accuracy – A thing he wasn’t known for as a player!”
Tommy Doherty (Ex United player)

Album of the day:- Oasis “Heathen Chemistry”