AFFLUENZA

When is Enough? How to be a discerning Christian in a time of affluenza.

Recently I went to a public workshop/lecture concerning the growing problems of a consumption based society and the awareness and responsibility of Christians towards this.
The workshop was presented by William T. Cavanaugh, Professor of Theology, St Thomoas University, St Paul's Minnesota. The topic was obviously of current interest generated from Clive Hamiltons book Affluenza.

The afternoon was a thought provoking and challenging session for myself. We looked at the detachment and enlarging gap between us 'western consumers' and producers, production and products. Each of these aspects was well discussed from a historic and modern stance. William them looked at the Christian community and how this consumerism lifestyle can easily undermine the values of God's Kingdom. We looked closley at Creation, the Body of Christ and the teachings of Jesus with some suggestion concerning practical applications.
If anything I left feeling a mixture of thoughts. Knowing that I am a Christian who lives and participates in a market driven economy – my Kingdom centered values (still developing) should radically affect my activities in this market place. This is a big change for me – to consider what I buy, why I need it – (usually I don’t) but often more importantly who made it – their working and living conditions as a result of my purchase, the problems of waste and unsustainable and unfair living practices. However I don't seek to change purely for the sake of making the world happier/fairer, I deeply believe it should be change that is trying to grow and point towards the Kingdom. I'm still wrestling with some of this, but it's a good thing to wrestle with.
One concept that was helpful was a comment made about God's 'economy', that being-He is the 'gift' the 'giver' and shares this with all. The opposite to modern day economies, and to live with that understanding is very different to the 'mine not yours', 'self sufficieny' and 'storing treasures away' economy. But rather to be active in the marketplace in ways that point people towards the true giver and the true gift.

Currently I'm reading Affluenza and Beyond Greed. Two books looking at similar issues, one written from a more secular view and the other with a obviously Christian view.

SIR BEN HARPER...

13 May - Supreme Court Gardens... MY HERO in the music world.

I have been lucky enough to see Ben three times. This most recent concert, was without a doubt an amazing musical experience. His energy, passion and sheer talent always leaves a lasting impression. I think if he was a girl, I would definately marry him...

Making Stuff...

So, I like to make stuff...
All types of stuff but mainly using timber. Sometimes I use other materials, but natural wood is the sweetest. I love the idea of creating something of beauty from what is often regarded as scrap or waste. The winerack is made from 80% recycled Jarrah from patios/pergolas. The only 'new' timber is the natural edge section - which came from a salvaged tree left on the ground after a logging company had cleared yet another section of Jarrah forrest. The steel is second hand - brought from a farmer. It holds over 70 bottles and works a treat. I like this quote, I just wish I knew more practical ways to act upon it...

"For creativity to be truly worshipful, it must point beyond the persona and the giftedness of the individual or the team of artists to the one who has given gifts and enabled them to exercise their creativity."

Followed by this one,

"Gifts should be used as an expression of God's concern for the world."

Both quotes are from a book I'm currently reading ( Emerging Churches) - a review soon to be posted. I'm sure making things will always be a part of me, hopefully something I can use to share God's love for His world.

WILD camp 2006

If you can’t tell from the pictures, WILD camp is amazing. It’s a 9-day Wilderness Hiking Program ran by Scripture Union WA. Each year, approx 12 campers (15-17yr olds) and 5/6 leaders spend 9 days together in a life-changing experience. Although I have been involved in countless other camping ministries, WILD camp is always the most intense, rewarding and amazing of them all. This year was no exception, surrounded by a beautiful God-reflecting creation, exploring Romans as we lived and grew in small, organic and encouraging community families. Living a basic life of walking, talking, cooking, eating and sleeping, far from technology, the rat-race and outside pressures, time to focus on the most important parts of life. Once again I have come back with a new understanding of God, his faithfulness and unconditional love. It’s times like this I most understand the amazing link between loving relationships and God’s Kingdom. The links between creation, God and us. Its like you experience some of heaven on earth.
It's always physically and emotionally challenging, the weather almost destroys you, and the man-earing tiger snakes keep you feeling rather vulnerable while in the squatting position!
This year a camper told me this some time after camp.
‘WILD camp was sooo good, it has changed me. I now see myself as beautiful, I see God as a loving father who is helping me become a perfect child. I’m changing, I'm excited – I want to keep my life simple’ – How sweet is that!!