Sorry for the long gap, but we are on vacation and so it's been more challenging to write. We left a day early (yay!!) on our surprise laden vacation. We are in Southern California, although the boys only thought we were going to Seattle. We were able to get as far as central Oregon before we told them that we were really going to Disneyland. The response was better than we anticipated. Tyler was screaming because he was so excited. It's probably a good thing that we told them in the van, rather than inside a building...
We are having a great time staying with family in a fantastic location. We spent Saturday night in Anaheim and went to see the Angels and Rangers. On Sunday we visited Angeles Temple and saw Delerious in concert. Delerious was a bonus, as we were planning to be there anyway. Angeles Temple is having a tremendous impact on Los Angeles and God is doing incredible things there.
We came to San Diego on Sunday afternoon and will be here through Friday when we will return to Anaheim and meet some friends from Kamloops. This is the next big surprise for the boys as they don't know that some of the friends will be meeting them at Disneyland.
We're not sure about our plans for today. We may hang around the pool here or we may go to the beach or we may take Britt to a mall or we .... (you get the idea...)
We'll keep you posted.
Tim
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Sunday, July 08, 2007
It's a Beautiful Day ... the sequel
I've added a new post under "Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" but it shows for July 1 instead of July 8. Click back to see the latest post.
Oops..
Tim
Oops..
Tim
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Happy Dominion Day!
What we now call Canada Day, used to be called Dominion Day. Dominion Day had it's roots in the naming of the Canadian Confederation when Premier Tilley suggested to the 1866 Conference of Confederation that Canada be called the "Dominion of Canada" based on Ps. 72:8 "And he shall have dominion also from sea to sea". The conference endorsed his recommendation and sent it to Queen Victoria for her approval. On July 1st, 1867, she proclaimed the Dominion of Canada into existence. It's really incredible to think that her royal proclamation endorsed what God had spoken before the foundations of the earth were laid.
Ps. 72:8 is actually Canada's official motto. I can't help but smile when I think that our forefathers embraced a prophetic declaration of the coming kingdom of Jesus as the phrase that would identify our nation. Admittedly, not a lot of people see the verse for what it is, but the reality of God's word is that He watches over it to perform it whether people believe it or not. He is God and His word does not return empty. It always produces the harvest that He intended. His purpose and plan for Canada will be accomplished. He will have dominion from sea to sea and our nation will be an source and symbol of hope, restoration and blessing for the nations of the earth.
If you've been following the blog, you'll know that we've just moved from Kamloops to Victoria in order to more fully and effectively fulfill God's call on our lives. We literally live 3 blocks from the sea in 3 directions. Now that we are settling in and the bulk of the unpacking has been completed, part of my daily routine will be to prayer walk around the Legislature on a daily basis and pray that His will would be done on here on earth as it is in heaven. Because government is bigger than just the Legislative precinct, I may expand my walk to cover a different ministry headquarters each day as well. What do you think??
Ps. 72:8 is actually Canada's official motto. I can't help but smile when I think that our forefathers embraced a prophetic declaration of the coming kingdom of Jesus as the phrase that would identify our nation. Admittedly, not a lot of people see the verse for what it is, but the reality of God's word is that He watches over it to perform it whether people believe it or not. He is God and His word does not return empty. It always produces the harvest that He intended. His purpose and plan for Canada will be accomplished. He will have dominion from sea to sea and our nation will be an source and symbol of hope, restoration and blessing for the nations of the earth.
If you've been following the blog, you'll know that we've just moved from Kamloops to Victoria in order to more fully and effectively fulfill God's call on our lives. We literally live 3 blocks from the sea in 3 directions. Now that we are settling in and the bulk of the unpacking has been completed, part of my daily routine will be to prayer walk around the Legislature on a daily basis and pray that His will would be done on here on earth as it is in heaven. Because government is bigger than just the Legislative precinct, I may expand my walk to cover a different ministry headquarters each day as well. What do you think??
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood...
So here it is the "new 'hood" post. We are living in a very interesting and unique part of Victoria. There are so many things to see and do and .... all of it is within walking distance. After 13 years in the near desert climate of Kamloops we now live 3 or less blocks from the ocean in 3 directions.
Three blocks to the south takes us to Ogden Point and the Dallas Rd. waterfront.
Three blocks to the west is Fisherman's Wharf which continues to be where the fishing boats come and go and then sell their catches to commerical suppliers and the public as well. Our kids don't eat seafood yet (born and raised in Cattle country) will do that to you, but Barb and I like it, even though we haven't had the opportunity to buy something fresh yet.
Three blocks to the North takes us to the heart of the tourist district. There are lots of hotels and the Inner Harbour that has buskers, performers and artisans sharing their skills and work. Everyone loves to go down and see what's happening in the Inner Harbour. Tyler has even participated in a busker show as a helper. He even made $5 so I guess that makes him a professional.
If you travel due East from our house, you'll go right past the Legislature and eventually find Beacon Hill Park.
For an urban area, there are some things that I find very interesting. There's plenty of green space near us (several parks within a 3 block radius) and more dogs than I ever encountered in Kamloops. It seems 1 out of 3 people has a dog here. Given that lots are small, that means a lot of walking on leash because you can't let your dog roam in Victoria.
Anyway... that's all for now. I'll post some of Britt's pictures later this week.
Tim
Three blocks to the south takes us to Ogden Point and the Dallas Rd. waterfront.
Three blocks to the west is Fisherman's Wharf which continues to be where the fishing boats come and go and then sell their catches to commerical suppliers and the public as well. Our kids don't eat seafood yet (born and raised in Cattle country) will do that to you, but Barb and I like it, even though we haven't had the opportunity to buy something fresh yet.
Three blocks to the North takes us to the heart of the tourist district. There are lots of hotels and the Inner Harbour that has buskers, performers and artisans sharing their skills and work. Everyone loves to go down and see what's happening in the Inner Harbour. Tyler has even participated in a busker show as a helper. He even made $5 so I guess that makes him a professional.
If you travel due East from our house, you'll go right past the Legislature and eventually find Beacon Hill Park.
For an urban area, there are some things that I find very interesting. There's plenty of green space near us (several parks within a 3 block radius) and more dogs than I ever encountered in Kamloops. It seems 1 out of 3 people has a dog here. Given that lots are small, that means a lot of walking on leash because you can't let your dog roam in Victoria.
Anyway... that's all for now. I'll post some of Britt's pictures later this week.
Tim
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Road Trip
We are digging our way out of the boxes, so I thought I'd give you a quick update on the move, etc. The move went remarkably well. I left Kamloops at 7:30 in the YEW HAUL with Zoe on the front seat. I had Country 103 on the radio just because it seemed like the kind of music you should listen to when you drive a truck. We got to Merrit in about 1hr and Zoe was whining and needed a break. (I just realized it might have been the music...) Anyway, we pulled over and she sniffed the sagebrush, left a mark to let everyone know she had been there.
We got back in the truck and by the time we near the toll booth she was whining again and I needed a break. I guess she thought if it was okay for me to sing, it should be okay for her to make some noise too. Much to her delight we found a stick and played fetch for 20 minutes. We got back in the truck, got our motor running and headed out on the highway. This was the part of the highway that I looked forward to and worried about all at the same time. If you've never driven the Coquihalla, it's a pretty steep highway from the toll booth to Hope. While I've always thought it would be kind of fun to use a "run away" lane, when I was actually driving a large truck with a full load, I decided that slower is safer. The weather was fantastic when we went through, but a day later there was a freak blizzard at the summit. Glad it came the day after...
We got to Hope safely and I found another country station that was playing "Hillbilly Delux". Again, it all seemed appropriate driving a UHAUL. We stopped in Abbotsford for fuel and shortly after we were "On the Road Again" bound for the ferry. At 12:30 I heard a traffic report that the 1:00 PM sailing was filled and that the next boat went at 3:00. I arrived at the terminal at 12:40 to a nearly empty parking lot (only 25% filled) and got a ticket on the 1:00 PM sailing.
With the help of some fantastic family and friends, we had the truck unloaded in about 90 minutes. And then the work of unpacking began. You know, we left here 13 years ago and thought the move was a lot of work. We had know idea how much work this was going to be. I actually thought that if we planned well, we could have the truck loaded in a few hours, completely forgetting that 3 kids and 19 years of marriage combines to create a magnetic force for all kinds of clutter. The best I've found thus far is a box containing cards wishing us well as we moved to Kamloops. Yup.. unopened for 13 years. It was like a time capsule.. So much for "clutter management".
Anyway, I'll give you the scoop on the new 'hood tomorrow.
Tim
We got back in the truck and by the time we near the toll booth she was whining again and I needed a break. I guess she thought if it was okay for me to sing, it should be okay for her to make some noise too. Much to her delight we found a stick and played fetch for 20 minutes. We got back in the truck, got our motor running and headed out on the highway. This was the part of the highway that I looked forward to and worried about all at the same time. If you've never driven the Coquihalla, it's a pretty steep highway from the toll booth to Hope. While I've always thought it would be kind of fun to use a "run away" lane, when I was actually driving a large truck with a full load, I decided that slower is safer. The weather was fantastic when we went through, but a day later there was a freak blizzard at the summit. Glad it came the day after...
We got to Hope safely and I found another country station that was playing "Hillbilly Delux". Again, it all seemed appropriate driving a UHAUL. We stopped in Abbotsford for fuel and shortly after we were "On the Road Again" bound for the ferry. At 12:30 I heard a traffic report that the 1:00 PM sailing was filled and that the next boat went at 3:00. I arrived at the terminal at 12:40 to a nearly empty parking lot (only 25% filled) and got a ticket on the 1:00 PM sailing.
With the help of some fantastic family and friends, we had the truck unloaded in about 90 minutes. And then the work of unpacking began. You know, we left here 13 years ago and thought the move was a lot of work. We had know idea how much work this was going to be. I actually thought that if we planned well, we could have the truck loaded in a few hours, completely forgetting that 3 kids and 19 years of marriage combines to create a magnetic force for all kinds of clutter. The best I've found thus far is a box containing cards wishing us well as we moved to Kamloops. Yup.. unopened for 13 years. It was like a time capsule.. So much for "clutter management".
Anyway, I'll give you the scoop on the new 'hood tomorrow.
Tim
Friday, June 22, 2007
Bye, Bye Kamloops - Thanks for the memories
The big truck in our driveway and a sold sign on the front lawn combined with the papers we signed today all point to the fact that we are going, going, going .... gone in less than 36 hours. The memories of this city will stay with us for a long time. We came here as a family of 3 and leave as a family of 5 plus a dog. Our boys were born here. Brittany is moving back to the city of her birth. The sunset was magnificent tonight. We will only see one more as residents of the city. It was as though the sky was painted.
Tomorrow we will say our final goodbyes to our friends and neighbours. We have been blessed with some amazing people around us. We prayed for good neighbours and God gave us the best! We will miss the Young's, Beveridge's, Frenkel's, etc, etc. Even the people we share the back fence with who we've never seen or spoken to will be missed. They always threw the ball back into our yard!
We came here with dreams, some of which were realized some that weren't. We leave with some disappointments and regrets, but these are the threads of our lives that contribute to the magnificent fabric that God is weaving into our lives to create the masterpiece that He envisioned for us in the beginning.
We are leaving 13 years to the week we came here very different than the way we came. We are older, wiser and changed because of our time here. My head is greyer and there is less hair than before. My head is smaller and my heart is certainly softer than it was at different points along the journey.
We are moving towards something fresh and new. It's a vision and dream that we have carried for years. It is so out of the ordinary, but at the same time so real and tangible. What we saw by faith, first in our hearts, then in a living room in Victoria and then through countless "God moments" is now becoming reality. I never cease to be amazed at how God makes something out of nothing and how He is gracious enough to include me in His plans. Thanks God!
So... tomorrow is the end of one chapter (maybe even a series of chapters...) and the beginning of a new one. This one was written in heaven before God said "Let there be" and one that will be completed on His terms and timeline. Thanks for praying, believing, sowing and standing with us. I'll post again from our Pacific Island home.
Tim
Tomorrow we will say our final goodbyes to our friends and neighbours. We have been blessed with some amazing people around us. We prayed for good neighbours and God gave us the best! We will miss the Young's, Beveridge's, Frenkel's, etc, etc. Even the people we share the back fence with who we've never seen or spoken to will be missed. They always threw the ball back into our yard!
We came here with dreams, some of which were realized some that weren't. We leave with some disappointments and regrets, but these are the threads of our lives that contribute to the magnificent fabric that God is weaving into our lives to create the masterpiece that He envisioned for us in the beginning.
We are leaving 13 years to the week we came here very different than the way we came. We are older, wiser and changed because of our time here. My head is greyer and there is less hair than before. My head is smaller and my heart is certainly softer than it was at different points along the journey.
We are moving towards something fresh and new. It's a vision and dream that we have carried for years. It is so out of the ordinary, but at the same time so real and tangible. What we saw by faith, first in our hearts, then in a living room in Victoria and then through countless "God moments" is now becoming reality. I never cease to be amazed at how God makes something out of nothing and how He is gracious enough to include me in His plans. Thanks God!
So... tomorrow is the end of one chapter (maybe even a series of chapters...) and the beginning of a new one. This one was written in heaven before God said "Let there be" and one that will be completed on His terms and timeline. Thanks for praying, believing, sowing and standing with us. I'll post again from our Pacific Island home.
Tim
Friday, June 15, 2007
Our New House
We've made a quick trip to Victoria so Barb could see the house and the boys could get a sense of their new "hood". Driving from the ferry to the house was very interesting. I was being plagued with thoughts of "Have I done the right thing?" "What if she doesn't like it?" and "Have we lost our minds?" The house is actually smaller than I thought, but will work just fine with some creativity and adjustments. We did some minor work on the yard today as it is a gardeners paradise/nightmare all at the same time. I'll post some pictures after we are moved in and settled.
So, we are all good with the house and the only family members that haven't seen it are Britt and Zoe. This morning we went for a walk to the Ocean at 7, for a drive at 10 and now Barb and the boys are at "Seeing is Believing" while I mooch an internet connection and catch up on a few things.
I'm preaching at Burnaby Chinese Pentecostal this Sunday and then sharing at our home church one more time before we leave town. We are so blessed to have been a part of Bible Truth for this past 18 months. This time has prepared us in faith and fellowship to take a step that is beyond anything we've ever done before.
Pray for us, this is a long leap...
Tim
So, we are all good with the house and the only family members that haven't seen it are Britt and Zoe. This morning we went for a walk to the Ocean at 7, for a drive at 10 and now Barb and the boys are at "Seeing is Believing" while I mooch an internet connection and catch up on a few things.
I'm preaching at Burnaby Chinese Pentecostal this Sunday and then sharing at our home church one more time before we leave town. We are so blessed to have been a part of Bible Truth for this past 18 months. This time has prepared us in faith and fellowship to take a step that is beyond anything we've ever done before.
Pray for us, this is a long leap...
Tim
Friday, June 08, 2007
The Flood that Didn't Come
If the experts were correct, the Fraser Valley would be experiencing a flood as I write this. But because God intervened, people are able to sleep in their own beds, live in their own homes and carry on with their lives, without the hassles and headaches of a flood. God is good!
Some will attribute this to luck, good fortune and cooperative weather. At the end of the day, it's only God who could manage this and He did it in response to our prayers and to demonstrate His care and concern for people and the MLA's who asked us to take up the challenge. We have seen the first of many miracles as God is very interested in making himself known in our great province and nation.
"Before the nations, He has bared his mighty arm."
Thanks for standing with us!
Some will attribute this to luck, good fortune and cooperative weather. At the end of the day, it's only God who could manage this and He did it in response to our prayers and to demonstrate His care and concern for people and the MLA's who asked us to take up the challenge. We have seen the first of many miracles as God is very interested in making himself known in our great province and nation.
"Before the nations, He has bared his mighty arm."
Thanks for standing with us!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Anything Can Happen
The combination of the hot weekend and rain in the Interior yesterday has raised concernes about a potential flooding throughout the province. In the natural, flooding appears inevitable. However, our God in heaven is not limited and governed by the laws of nature. So, this week I'm asking you to pray along with people from across the province asking the Lord to hold back a flood and allow for a spring runoff without damage to property and people.
You may live far away from a potential flood zone, but ten's of thousands of people in our province will be dramatically affected if the river spills it's banks, particularly in Prince George and the Fraser Valley. We need a miracle and miracles still happen.
It's time to pray!!
You may live far away from a potential flood zone, but ten's of thousands of people in our province will be dramatically affected if the river spills it's banks, particularly in Prince George and the Fraser Valley. We need a miracle and miracles still happen.
It's time to pray!!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
He Supplieth Every Need!!
There's a song that we've been singing at our house for the last few months that has the following lyrics:
"It's a big, big house with lots and lots of rooms". God knows what he's doing and He has heard answered our prayers in style. In an ideal world, we'd like to live in downtown Victoria within a few blocks of the Legislature, but the houses and yards are quite small and the costs are quite high. Last night I received a call from an owner of a house that I had looked at on Tuesday morning. It's either 2200 or 2400 square feet, 5 bdrms, 4 bathrooms on 1.3 acres in the country. The lot borders on a nature preserve. There's lots of room for everyone (including the dog!) This will be a wonderful home for the next year as we find our feet and get re-established in Victoria.
I didn't fall asleep until well past 1 AM because I was just so excited about the events of the past 2 days. God has been so good to us. In 30 (counting today) days we will be living in Victoria and I won't be spending nearly as much time at the Vancouver airport waiting for flights. I'm at the airport as I write this. I made a surprising discovery yesterday... what I thought was a 5:40 PM flight was actually a 5:40 AM flight. I was up at 4:25 this morning...
From a ministry perspective, the past 2 days have been awesome. I am starting to be introduced as "the Chaplain". It's strange and exciting at the same time. God continues to open doors of favor and opporunity. There's more than I can tell on here because I'm committed to protecting the privacy of MLA's but I can tell you I was thrilled to be able to pray with an MLA in his office about some specific challenges that he shared with me.
Last night we went out for Chilean food (very good!!) An MLA from the Fraser Valley was there and we discussed the impending flood threat. Apparently there's not enough water in the Fraser because of the slow melt. The heat from the Interior will change that somewhat, but the river SHALL NOT flood!
Looking forward to getting home, seeing Barb and having a nap.
"It's a big, big house with lots and lots of rooms". God knows what he's doing and He has heard answered our prayers in style. In an ideal world, we'd like to live in downtown Victoria within a few blocks of the Legislature, but the houses and yards are quite small and the costs are quite high. Last night I received a call from an owner of a house that I had looked at on Tuesday morning. It's either 2200 or 2400 square feet, 5 bdrms, 4 bathrooms on 1.3 acres in the country. The lot borders on a nature preserve. There's lots of room for everyone (including the dog!) This will be a wonderful home for the next year as we find our feet and get re-established in Victoria.
I didn't fall asleep until well past 1 AM because I was just so excited about the events of the past 2 days. God has been so good to us. In 30 (counting today) days we will be living in Victoria and I won't be spending nearly as much time at the Vancouver airport waiting for flights. I'm at the airport as I write this. I made a surprising discovery yesterday... what I thought was a 5:40 PM flight was actually a 5:40 AM flight. I was up at 4:25 this morning...
From a ministry perspective, the past 2 days have been awesome. I am starting to be introduced as "the Chaplain". It's strange and exciting at the same time. God continues to open doors of favor and opporunity. There's more than I can tell on here because I'm committed to protecting the privacy of MLA's but I can tell you I was thrilled to be able to pray with an MLA in his office about some specific challenges that he shared with me.
Last night we went out for Chilean food (very good!!) An MLA from the Fraser Valley was there and we discussed the impending flood threat. Apparently there's not enough water in the Fraser because of the slow melt. The heat from the Interior will change that somewhat, but the river SHALL NOT flood!
Looking forward to getting home, seeing Barb and having a nap.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Miracle House Needed!
A few days ago, I said I would share what's happening in our lives as we prepare for the move, so here's the latest:
1. Our house is sold. The subjects came off on Friday afternoon and the sold sign is up. It's exciting, surreal and unsettling all at the same time.
2. We are looking for a place to live. This sounds like no big deal until you realize that the rental market in Victoria is basically 0% and that the real estate market is white hot and most stuff is gone before it hits MLS.
3. The good news is that I am heading to Victoria tomorrow to spend the week at the Legislature and to house hunt. The bad news is I'm going to househunt without Barb. :-(
Call us crazy but that's the way this is playing out.
4. We need a miracle house. A place where we can keep our dog, that's affordable (you wouldn't believe the cost of renting in Victoria) or an unbelievable deal. We want to live in the James Bay/Fernwood area for several good reasons that are mostly connected to the proximity to the Legislature. It needs to be in a good area for our kids and it needs to be "pet friendly" because our dog is part of the family. Dogs grow on you and she would be VERY missed! Some of you might be laughing, but "you have not because you ask not".
5. We need a miracle house in the next 5 days. It's important to get this nailed down so that there's some stability for our kids over the next month as we start packing up their stuff and putting it in boxes.
Thanks for standing with us. Let us know you're praying.
Tim
4.
1. Our house is sold. The subjects came off on Friday afternoon and the sold sign is up. It's exciting, surreal and unsettling all at the same time.
2. We are looking for a place to live. This sounds like no big deal until you realize that the rental market in Victoria is basically 0% and that the real estate market is white hot and most stuff is gone before it hits MLS.
3. The good news is that I am heading to Victoria tomorrow to spend the week at the Legislature and to house hunt. The bad news is I'm going to househunt without Barb. :-(
Call us crazy but that's the way this is playing out.
4. We need a miracle house. A place where we can keep our dog, that's affordable (you wouldn't believe the cost of renting in Victoria) or an unbelievable deal. We want to live in the James Bay/Fernwood area for several good reasons that are mostly connected to the proximity to the Legislature. It needs to be in a good area for our kids and it needs to be "pet friendly" because our dog is part of the family. Dogs grow on you and she would be VERY missed! Some of you might be laughing, but "you have not because you ask not".
5. We need a miracle house in the next 5 days. It's important to get this nailed down so that there's some stability for our kids over the next month as we start packing up their stuff and putting it in boxes.
Thanks for standing with us. Let us know you're praying.
Tim
4.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Saturday Surprise
Our boys are in a ball tournament this weekend, so I let them sleep in and did their paper route this morning. Zoe (our Lab) hasn't had a good walk for a few days so I decided to take her with me "off leash". At 5:30 AM, what could the harm be??
She bounded out of the house and down the street as she loves to explore, sniff and dart through yards, bushes and gardens. Every so often I'd call her back, she'd walk beside me and all seemed well. As we approached our first stop, she was ahead of me, sniffing through the bushes at a nearby house. I wasn't really paying attention as it was "pre-coffee" but I did notice her go into the bushes.
What happened next was a sight to behold... there was a flurry of activity followed by a mad dash because Zoe had found a cat. Because the cat was the same color as she it, it looked as though Zoe had been thrown backward out of the bushes. What happened was the cat darted out the back and she was scrambling to catch it. The cat streaked across the yard and parking lot with Zoe in hot pursuit. There was no barking, just full out speed. The cat bolted up the nearest tree which would have been fine except that it was full of crows who started squawking and protesting. At the point, the cat is about 10 feet up in the tree, hanging on for dear life while Zoe is jumping up at it.
I called her away and we finished Tyler's route. As we walked back past the tree again, I noticed the cat still up the tree with the crows squawking away.
Do cats come down from trees or do you have to call the fire department?
She bounded out of the house and down the street as she loves to explore, sniff and dart through yards, bushes and gardens. Every so often I'd call her back, she'd walk beside me and all seemed well. As we approached our first stop, she was ahead of me, sniffing through the bushes at a nearby house. I wasn't really paying attention as it was "pre-coffee" but I did notice her go into the bushes.
What happened next was a sight to behold... there was a flurry of activity followed by a mad dash because Zoe had found a cat. Because the cat was the same color as she it, it looked as though Zoe had been thrown backward out of the bushes. What happened was the cat darted out the back and she was scrambling to catch it. The cat streaked across the yard and parking lot with Zoe in hot pursuit. There was no barking, just full out speed. The cat bolted up the nearest tree which would have been fine except that it was full of crows who started squawking and protesting. At the point, the cat is about 10 feet up in the tree, hanging on for dear life while Zoe is jumping up at it.
I called her away and we finished Tyler's route. As we walked back past the tree again, I noticed the cat still up the tree with the crows squawking away.
Do cats come down from trees or do you have to call the fire department?
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Orderly Snow Melt Continues
I smiled to myself when I heard the leading story on CJNL's (NL Radio) major newscast at 7:30 this morning. Apparently the higher than normal snowpack is melting in an orderly fashion. I'm not surprised for several reasons. First of all people all across the province are praying to stop a flood in the Fraser Valley. While we'd all prefer warmer weather, those of us who are praying recognize that a cool spring ensures there will be no flood. Secondly, the bible talks about the "treasures (storehouses) of snow" in Job 38:22. I think the Lord is managing the snowpack remarkably well and I fully expect that the river will be staying within it's banks.
God is good. Watch for a personal update over the next few days on some stuff happening here at home. It's all good!
Tim
God is good. Watch for a personal update over the next few days on some stuff happening here at home. It's all good!
Tim
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Rising to the Call
What are your thoughts on this quote?
God has given the church a great call and therefore it takes great people to accomplish it. If we fail to see our greatness, we will fall short of our call. Our pauper mentality and false humility have rendered much of the church ineffective by diminishing our vision for the influence we are meant to have in the world.
God has given the church a great call and therefore it takes great people to accomplish it. If we fail to see our greatness, we will fall short of our call. Our pauper mentality and false humility have rendered much of the church ineffective by diminishing our vision for the influence we are meant to have in the world.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
News Article
I was interviewed by the Kamloops Daily News this week. Here's the story as they printed it.
Evangelical pastor bringing Christian Values to Legislature
The Daily News (Kamloops)
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Page: A4
Section: News
Byline: Cam Fortems
Source: The Daily News
When the B.C. legislature reconvenes this fall, another person in uniform will join officers in parliamentary dress and MLAs wearing business attire. High up in the public gallery, Tim Schindel plans to watch the daily theatrics of question period clad in a clerical collar.
For Schindel, an evangelical Christian pastor who has lived in Kamloops for 13 years, wearing a collar -- normally associated with Roman Catholics or Anglicans -- is a new experience.
While he has never worn a collar, Schindel hopes its instant recognition will allow those in the legislature who will see him day in and day out to understand his purpose: A calling to bring the leadership of God and Jesus to the leaders of this province.
"Doing what I'm doing, (the collar) makes sense," Schindel said. Wearing a collar while he sits in the legislature is just one way that Schindel is making up the rules as he goes along. The provincial legislature, like those in the nine other provinces, three territories and the House of Commons in Ottawa, has no house chaplain. Schindel isn't in Victoria to fill a job, he's there to create one: to bring a stable Christian presence to any of the 79 MLAs who want it.
"We want to build a core group we have regular contact with," Schindel said of his goal as the leader of Leading Influence Ministries, a non-profit group comprised of evangelical B.C church leaders.
"Our goal is not to cram anything on them. There's no agenda beyond being an encouraging presence. We want to influence people to govern with excellence and with some values."
Schindel cites his experience as president of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce as influencing his desire to bring the hand of Christianity to leaders.
He counts among his supporters Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger, a devout Baptist who lent his assistance to Schindel -- as well as a warning about the task ahead.
"He came to me several years ago," Krueger said. "He felt God was calling him to this ministry. I said it's a tough go. We have people of all faiths elected as MLAs. And some with no faith."
In addition, even Christians who may feel comfortable with Schindel have their own churches back home, Krueger said.
Schindel spoke to The Daily News on the same day that fundamentalist American preacher Jerry Falwell died. The controversial founder of the Moral Majority brought the influence of religious conservatives into U.S. politics. "Not my bag," said Schindel, an affable man who has worked most recently as a newspaper distributor after leaving the church in Kamloops where he had been pastor. "When you identify with a particular ideology or movement the issue of faith and politics really comes into play. . . . You're getting on thin ice," he said of Falwell's intersection with politics. Schindel's awareness of the issue is even addressed on this website, in a posting about the separation of church and state.
Instead of protests and demands, bullying and organizing, Schindel said he hopes to bring a quieter Christianity to the legislature. And one that is non-partisan. In a recent posting on the Leading Influence website, Schindel asked Christians to pray for provincial leadership on the pine beetle crisis and to alleviate flooding in B.C. this spring. Schindel said there are aspects of every party "close to the heart of God," whether the NDP's advocating for the disadvantaged, the Liberal party's openness and welcoming of people of different faiths and backgrounds and the federal Conservatives' traditional values on issues such as same-sex marriage. In the United States, government assemblies typically have a politically appointed chaplain, an official taxpayer-funded position. There is nothing comparable in Canada.
Schindel proudly notes that 10 members from both sides of the legislature attended a prayer breakfast he organized in Victoria this month. Several Sikh members also expressed interest, but could not attend, Schindel said. Schindel has his home in Kamloops up for sale and hopes to move to Victoria this summer with his wife, Barb, and three children, to establish his ministry.
Beyond receiving prayers and financial backing from churches and individuals in B.C., Schindel said the biggest positive omen was a last-minute chance to deliver the opening prayer during the throne speech in the legislature when the scheduled minister was a no-show. Within 10 minutes he was pulled from the public gallery to centre stage. "It was tremendously exciting," said Schindel, who is comfortable in front of a crowd. "You're front and centre."
cfortems@kamloopsnews.ca
© 2007 The Daily News (Kamloops)
Evangelical pastor bringing Christian Values to Legislature
The Daily News (Kamloops)
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Page: A4
Section: News
Byline: Cam Fortems
Source: The Daily News
When the B.C. legislature reconvenes this fall, another person in uniform will join officers in parliamentary dress and MLAs wearing business attire. High up in the public gallery, Tim Schindel plans to watch the daily theatrics of question period clad in a clerical collar.
For Schindel, an evangelical Christian pastor who has lived in Kamloops for 13 years, wearing a collar -- normally associated with Roman Catholics or Anglicans -- is a new experience.
While he has never worn a collar, Schindel hopes its instant recognition will allow those in the legislature who will see him day in and day out to understand his purpose: A calling to bring the leadership of God and Jesus to the leaders of this province.
"Doing what I'm doing, (the collar) makes sense," Schindel said. Wearing a collar while he sits in the legislature is just one way that Schindel is making up the rules as he goes along. The provincial legislature, like those in the nine other provinces, three territories and the House of Commons in Ottawa, has no house chaplain. Schindel isn't in Victoria to fill a job, he's there to create one: to bring a stable Christian presence to any of the 79 MLAs who want it.
"We want to build a core group we have regular contact with," Schindel said of his goal as the leader of Leading Influence Ministries, a non-profit group comprised of evangelical B.C church leaders.
"Our goal is not to cram anything on them. There's no agenda beyond being an encouraging presence. We want to influence people to govern with excellence and with some values."
Schindel cites his experience as president of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce as influencing his desire to bring the hand of Christianity to leaders.
He counts among his supporters Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger, a devout Baptist who lent his assistance to Schindel -- as well as a warning about the task ahead.
"He came to me several years ago," Krueger said. "He felt God was calling him to this ministry. I said it's a tough go. We have people of all faiths elected as MLAs. And some with no faith."
In addition, even Christians who may feel comfortable with Schindel have their own churches back home, Krueger said.
Schindel spoke to The Daily News on the same day that fundamentalist American preacher Jerry Falwell died. The controversial founder of the Moral Majority brought the influence of religious conservatives into U.S. politics. "Not my bag," said Schindel, an affable man who has worked most recently as a newspaper distributor after leaving the church in Kamloops where he had been pastor. "When you identify with a particular ideology or movement the issue of faith and politics really comes into play. . . . You're getting on thin ice," he said of Falwell's intersection with politics. Schindel's awareness of the issue is even addressed on this website, in a posting about the separation of church and state.
Instead of protests and demands, bullying and organizing, Schindel said he hopes to bring a quieter Christianity to the legislature. And one that is non-partisan. In a recent posting on the Leading Influence website, Schindel asked Christians to pray for provincial leadership on the pine beetle crisis and to alleviate flooding in B.C. this spring. Schindel said there are aspects of every party "close to the heart of God," whether the NDP's advocating for the disadvantaged, the Liberal party's openness and welcoming of people of different faiths and backgrounds and the federal Conservatives' traditional values on issues such as same-sex marriage. In the United States, government assemblies typically have a politically appointed chaplain, an official taxpayer-funded position. There is nothing comparable in Canada.
Schindel proudly notes that 10 members from both sides of the legislature attended a prayer breakfast he organized in Victoria this month. Several Sikh members also expressed interest, but could not attend, Schindel said. Schindel has his home in Kamloops up for sale and hopes to move to Victoria this summer with his wife, Barb, and three children, to establish his ministry.
Beyond receiving prayers and financial backing from churches and individuals in B.C., Schindel said the biggest positive omen was a last-minute chance to deliver the opening prayer during the throne speech in the legislature when the scheduled minister was a no-show. Within 10 minutes he was pulled from the public gallery to centre stage. "It was tremendously exciting," said Schindel, who is comfortable in front of a crowd. "You're front and centre."
cfortems@kamloopsnews.ca
© 2007 The Daily News (Kamloops)
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Quoting Jerry Falwell
“I want the members of Congress to understand ... that the solution to America’s serious moral and spiritual problem is not political. We’re in need of a religious awakening.” Jerry Falwell
In recognition of Jerry Falwell's passing today, I found this quote that I thought was very appropriate. I'd hardly be a "Falwell Fan" but I remember my aunt and uncle watching him on TV on Sunday afternoons when I would spend the summer with them. I have vague recollections of him starting a university and I remember him telling the story of climbing a hill outside of Lynchburg, Virginia and praying that God would give him favor to minister effectively within the city. I've done that in every place that I pastored because it just seemed to be the right thing to do.
In terms of the quote, with one slight modification, I'd agree with what Falwell had to say in this particular case. I don't agree that we need a religious awakening, I think we need a spiritual awakening that connects people to the presence and power of God in a meaningful and personal way so that the Prince of Peace can rule in their hearts and lives regardless of their social status, net worth or political affiliation. Political parties and ideologies have their place, but no single party has the entire answer to the social, economic and corporate challenges of leadership in this day. The answer is not within ourselves, but outside of us. It's bigger than us and better than anything we could create within ourselves. It seems to me that the Creator must have the answers to the issues faced by the creation and that's why we need to reconnect with Him in a meaningful way.
Tim
In recognition of Jerry Falwell's passing today, I found this quote that I thought was very appropriate. I'd hardly be a "Falwell Fan" but I remember my aunt and uncle watching him on TV on Sunday afternoons when I would spend the summer with them. I have vague recollections of him starting a university and I remember him telling the story of climbing a hill outside of Lynchburg, Virginia and praying that God would give him favor to minister effectively within the city. I've done that in every place that I pastored because it just seemed to be the right thing to do.
In terms of the quote, with one slight modification, I'd agree with what Falwell had to say in this particular case. I don't agree that we need a religious awakening, I think we need a spiritual awakening that connects people to the presence and power of God in a meaningful and personal way so that the Prince of Peace can rule in their hearts and lives regardless of their social status, net worth or political affiliation. Political parties and ideologies have their place, but no single party has the entire answer to the social, economic and corporate challenges of leadership in this day. The answer is not within ourselves, but outside of us. It's bigger than us and better than anything we could create within ourselves. It seems to me that the Creator must have the answers to the issues faced by the creation and that's why we need to reconnect with Him in a meaningful way.
Tim
Sunday, May 06, 2007
National Prayer Event
From the Victoria Times Colonist May 6/07
OTTAWA -- It's a Parliament Hill event that attracts hundreds of people every year and almost no publicity. Many participants want to keep it that way.
Scores of MPs and former MPs were among the more than 600 diplomats, priests, pastors, teachers and students from across Canada who flocked to three meeting rooms on the hill this week to attend the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a non-denominational Christian affair marking its 42nd year. But this was not piety on parade. Nor was it the religious right trying to flex its muscles.
Retiring NDP Bill Blaikie, a United Church minister, plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa: "[The prayer breakfast] hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit."
In Canada, politicians tend not to wear their religious beliefs on their sleeve, and the yearly gathering reflects that reticence. Participants say they are glad the event is more low-profile and less political than the one held in Washington, D.C., for the last 55 years. That gathering, which now attracts thousands of people, has almost always starred the U.S. president of the day.
NDP MP Bill Blaikie says organizers of the Canadian event have got it right.
"It hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit," said the retiring MP, a United Church minister who plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa. Beyond the breakfast, though, Blaikie says he's frustrated by a seeming taboo on talking about the role of faith in politics. "Politics tries to operate as if that elephant isn't in the room," said Blaikie, who was first elected in 1979.
"So a lot is missed as to why people do things the way they do and why they believe what they do." Blaikie also says he's growing impatient with a stereotyping of Christians that focuses on the Christian right and forgets the Christian left. "It's partly because Christians on the left over time have developed a way of speaking that isn't always explicit about where they are coming from." Left-wing Christians need to let it be known "there's more than one way politically to be a Christian in the world."
Liberal MP Karen Redman, a Presbyterian and former chairwoman of the prayer gathering, says the breakfast is a chance to celebrate her Christianity in a respectful, nonpartisan environment without getting dragged down by debates over such contentious issues as abortion and gay marriage that divide people of faith. She says, however, she sometime fears her religion is getting "wrestled away from me" because of assumptions made about people who identify themselves as Christian. "When people ask, are you Christian, you say to yourself, 'Now, where is that coming from?' "The right and true answer is 'Yes, I am a Christian,' but don't assume I'm against gay marriage, against women's right to choose. Don't visit this whole spectrum of decisions automatically on me because I say, 'Yes, I am a Christian."
This week's gathering over fruit, muffins and coffee was clearly a comfortable forum for Christians of all political stripes. "Our breakfast flies below the radar of social issues," said chief organizer Jack Murta, a former cabinet minister in the Progressive Conservative government of Brian Mulroney.
Unlike their U.S. counterparts, Canada's elected officials don't make religion political.
"The prayer breakfast is not about political parties. It is not about who is right and who is wrong."
Representatives from each party made appearances on the podium, but their remarks were limited to reading from scripture. The only party leader on hand was the NDP's Jack Layton.
The politics-free event is not, however, to everyone's liking.
Charles McVety, president of Canada Christian College in Toronto and an outspoken player on the religious right wing, says he gave the prayer breakfast a pass this year in part because it's not political enough. He says he prefers to use his trips to Ottawa to directly lobby MPs on specific issues.
"[The breakfast] has traditionally been very non-political," said McVety, who, as head of the Defend Marriage Coalition, led a campaign in the last federal election to elect evangelical candidates opposed to same-sex marriage.
"I'm not belittling the power of prayer, but faith without works is dead."
Bruce Clemenger, president of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, said the breakfast is a quiet celebration of faith that has never been seen as a lobbying opportunity. But, like Blaikie, he says there should be more open discussion about the role faith plays in politics.
OTTAWA -- It's a Parliament Hill event that attracts hundreds of people every year and almost no publicity. Many participants want to keep it that way.
Scores of MPs and former MPs were among the more than 600 diplomats, priests, pastors, teachers and students from across Canada who flocked to three meeting rooms on the hill this week to attend the annual National Prayer Breakfast, a non-denominational Christian affair marking its 42nd year. But this was not piety on parade. Nor was it the religious right trying to flex its muscles.
Retiring NDP Bill Blaikie, a United Church minister, plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa: "[The prayer breakfast] hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit."
In Canada, politicians tend not to wear their religious beliefs on their sleeve, and the yearly gathering reflects that reticence. Participants say they are glad the event is more low-profile and less political than the one held in Washington, D.C., for the last 55 years. That gathering, which now attracts thousands of people, has almost always starred the U.S. president of the day.
NDP MP Bill Blaikie says organizers of the Canadian event have got it right.
"It hasn't been the big P political vehicle that it has been in Washington, and that is to its credit," said the retiring MP, a United Church minister who plans to write a book about the relationship between faith and politics after he leaves Ottawa. Beyond the breakfast, though, Blaikie says he's frustrated by a seeming taboo on talking about the role of faith in politics. "Politics tries to operate as if that elephant isn't in the room," said Blaikie, who was first elected in 1979.
"So a lot is missed as to why people do things the way they do and why they believe what they do." Blaikie also says he's growing impatient with a stereotyping of Christians that focuses on the Christian right and forgets the Christian left. "It's partly because Christians on the left over time have developed a way of speaking that isn't always explicit about where they are coming from." Left-wing Christians need to let it be known "there's more than one way politically to be a Christian in the world."
Liberal MP Karen Redman, a Presbyterian and former chairwoman of the prayer gathering, says the breakfast is a chance to celebrate her Christianity in a respectful, nonpartisan environment without getting dragged down by debates over such contentious issues as abortion and gay marriage that divide people of faith. She says, however, she sometime fears her religion is getting "wrestled away from me" because of assumptions made about people who identify themselves as Christian. "When people ask, are you Christian, you say to yourself, 'Now, where is that coming from?' "The right and true answer is 'Yes, I am a Christian,' but don't assume I'm against gay marriage, against women's right to choose. Don't visit this whole spectrum of decisions automatically on me because I say, 'Yes, I am a Christian."
This week's gathering over fruit, muffins and coffee was clearly a comfortable forum for Christians of all political stripes. "Our breakfast flies below the radar of social issues," said chief organizer Jack Murta, a former cabinet minister in the Progressive Conservative government of Brian Mulroney.
Unlike their U.S. counterparts, Canada's elected officials don't make religion political.
"The prayer breakfast is not about political parties. It is not about who is right and who is wrong."
Representatives from each party made appearances on the podium, but their remarks were limited to reading from scripture. The only party leader on hand was the NDP's Jack Layton.
The politics-free event is not, however, to everyone's liking.
Charles McVety, president of Canada Christian College in Toronto and an outspoken player on the religious right wing, says he gave the prayer breakfast a pass this year in part because it's not political enough. He says he prefers to use his trips to Ottawa to directly lobby MPs on specific issues.
"[The breakfast] has traditionally been very non-political," said McVety, who, as head of the Defend Marriage Coalition, led a campaign in the last federal election to elect evangelical candidates opposed to same-sex marriage.
"I'm not belittling the power of prayer, but faith without works is dead."
Bruce Clemenger, president of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, said the breakfast is a quiet celebration of faith that has never been seen as a lobbying opportunity. But, like Blaikie, he says there should be more open discussion about the role faith plays in politics.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Prayer Breakfast Pictures
Here are some pictures from our recent prayer breakfast. I've even included some "food shots" for those of you that want to see what breakfast looked like ...
Mary Jane Smith (left) and Donna Pechie. This breakfast would NOT have happened without their help and support. They were the administrative and logistical team that pulled it together.
Pastor Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist), Pastors Dan and Susan MacLean (Victoria Miracle Centre) and Ione Robinson. These are friends and partners who came to join us for the day.
Rev. David Wells, District Supt, BC PAOC brought greetings and formally blessed us and the ministry. Dave has been a long time friend and encourger to both Barb and I.
Susan Uganecz (ministry partner) and the obligatory "food shot".
As you can see, breakfast was great!
The Honorable Kevin Kreuger, Minister of State for Mining and the lovely Barb Schindel. Barb is my wife, Kevin is my MLA and no... we don't want to confuse that....
We had a total of 9 MLA's with us for the morning and the opportunity to connect with many of them since the breakfast has been fantastic. I'm hoping to return to Victoria sometime in the next few weeks to attend the legislature again before the session concludes. I've decided to purchase a clerical collar to wear while I'm there. Can't wait to see what that's going to look like. I'll post a picture on a day when things are slow here.
Have a good one!!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Prayer Breakfast Report
What a day this has been! We were up early and were on our way to the Union Club at 6:15. Victoria is beautiful any time of day, but we actually smelled the flowers as we walked past the Empress. Our team was in place and ready to go when we got there. (Such an incredible group of people.)
We had a great morning! We had 9 MLA's attend and they were very moved by the breakfast. Dave Hauser (Board Member and Uncle) Emceed the event and did an exceptional job. Tom Oshiro (a pastoral legend in Victoria, said grace and encouraged us). We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast provided by the Union Club. David Wells brought greetings from the PAOC District Conference, Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist) brought greetings on behalf of the Church in Victoria and then Wally Berndt introduced me.
It's kind of strange speaking at your own event, but the room was filled with friends and partners so it was pretty amazing. Pastor Andrew Picklyk prayed for the MLA's ( I love my pastor and will miss him when we move!) It was powerful and there weren't many dry eyes among the MLA's. It was so amazing.
There are several significant things pending coming out of this meeting. We continue to have favor among the MLA's but there is a huge (and exciting) opportunity coming out of this morning that may propel us beyond anything that we had expected thus far. It reminds me of Eph 3:20 (He who is able to do exceedingly above all that we are able to think or ask or imagine...) That's what we are seeing in this journey. God is doing far more, far faster than we ever dreamed possible. It's incredible to say the least.
God was very real and present this morning. We knew his presence and Spirit among us and upon us. We found out that 3 intercessors were on "Jericho duty" walking the sidewalks around the Union Club and praying for us and the MLA's. How cool is that! God is good!!
I'll post some pictures ASAP so you can see what it looked like!!
Tim
We had a great morning! We had 9 MLA's attend and they were very moved by the breakfast. Dave Hauser (Board Member and Uncle) Emceed the event and did an exceptional job. Tom Oshiro (a pastoral legend in Victoria, said grace and encouraged us). We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast provided by the Union Club. David Wells brought greetings from the PAOC District Conference, Gordon Patterson (Gateway Baptist) brought greetings on behalf of the Church in Victoria and then Wally Berndt introduced me.
It's kind of strange speaking at your own event, but the room was filled with friends and partners so it was pretty amazing. Pastor Andrew Picklyk prayed for the MLA's ( I love my pastor and will miss him when we move!) It was powerful and there weren't many dry eyes among the MLA's. It was so amazing.
There are several significant things pending coming out of this meeting. We continue to have favor among the MLA's but there is a huge (and exciting) opportunity coming out of this morning that may propel us beyond anything that we had expected thus far. It reminds me of Eph 3:20 (He who is able to do exceedingly above all that we are able to think or ask or imagine...) That's what we are seeing in this journey. God is doing far more, far faster than we ever dreamed possible. It's incredible to say the least.
God was very real and present this morning. We knew his presence and Spirit among us and upon us. We found out that 3 intercessors were on "Jericho duty" walking the sidewalks around the Union Club and praying for us and the MLA's. How cool is that! God is good!!
I'll post some pictures ASAP so you can see what it looked like!!
Tim
Monday, April 30, 2007
Twas the Night Before the Breakfast
It's the night before the big day and we are in our hotel room winding down for the night. Barb is doing some reading while I finished off my talk for tomorrow. She hasn't turned a page in about 20 minutes and I'm pretty sure her eyes are closed. I'll ask her how the book was later...
I am nearly ready. There's nothing left to do now but have a good sleep so that we are well rested for an exciting day tomorrow. We are completely full and even have a waiting list which is kind of cool, except if you are on the list! The miracles that continue to happen here are amazing. We've gone to 11 MLA's for the morning which speaks of the favor that God has placed on us. We have been so blessed!
We had a great day today. Barb came with me to the Legislature for the first time. We were introduced to the house and made to "feel welcome". While we were there, we got a voicemail from our hotel saying that an anonymous person had paid for a second night for us so that we wouldn't have to move out in the morning. THANKS, WHOEVER YOU ARE!!
I spent the afternoon with a friend who is a real champion for the ministry. His church, Glad Tidings Church in Armstrong, BC is actually praying for 48 hours straight for our breakfast tomorrow. What an incredible bunch of people! We went to Question Period today. He'd never been there before so it's always very interesting (and sometimes entertaining) as it was today.
While we were doing that, Barb went shopping and got some new clothes for tomorrow. I'm getting kind of groggy now, so I'm heading off to bed. I'll tell you all about tomorrow, tomorrow!
Have a good one!
Tim
I am nearly ready. There's nothing left to do now but have a good sleep so that we are well rested for an exciting day tomorrow. We are completely full and even have a waiting list which is kind of cool, except if you are on the list! The miracles that continue to happen here are amazing. We've gone to 11 MLA's for the morning which speaks of the favor that God has placed on us. We have been so blessed!
We had a great day today. Barb came with me to the Legislature for the first time. We were introduced to the house and made to "feel welcome". While we were there, we got a voicemail from our hotel saying that an anonymous person had paid for a second night for us so that we wouldn't have to move out in the morning. THANKS, WHOEVER YOU ARE!!
I spent the afternoon with a friend who is a real champion for the ministry. His church, Glad Tidings Church in Armstrong, BC is actually praying for 48 hours straight for our breakfast tomorrow. What an incredible bunch of people! We went to Question Period today. He'd never been there before so it's always very interesting (and sometimes entertaining) as it was today.
While we were doing that, Barb went shopping and got some new clothes for tomorrow. I'm getting kind of groggy now, so I'm heading off to bed. I'll tell you all about tomorrow, tomorrow!
Have a good one!
Tim
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