There is a hope by Stuart Townend

I have been again blessed - now by the lyrics of a recent hymn written by the modern British hymn writer, Stuart Townend. I found the lyrics both spiritually and theologically rich. Here they are:

THERE IS A HOPE
by Stuart Townend and Mark Edwards
Copyright (c) 2007 Thankyou Music.

There is a hope that burns within my heart,
That gives me strength for ev'ry passing day;
a glimpse of glory now revealed in meager part,
Yet drives all doubt away:
I stand in Christ, with sins forgiv'n;
and Christ in me, the hope of heav'n!
My highest calling and my deepest joy,
to make His will my home.

There is a hope that lifts my weary head,
A consolation strong against despair,
That when the world has plunged me in its deepest pit,
I find the Savior there!
Through present sufferings, future's fear,
He whispers, "Courage!" in my ear.
For I am safe in everlasting arms,
And they will lead me home.

There is a hope that stands the test of time,
That lifts my eyes beyond the beckoning grave,
To see the matchless beauty of a day divine
When I behold His face!
When sufferings cease and sorrows die,
and every longing satisfied,
then joy unspeakable
will flood my soul,
For I am truly home.

May my life be always defined by a hope that is rooted firmly in the truth of Your glorious resurrection. May my current sufferings remind me that though I am in this world, I am called by You to embody a vision of life as You would have it. May I always look ahead, knowing that by Your grace alone, You will indeed lead me safely home.

Here's the link if you want to hear & watch it on youtube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyMWBx6vvJo

Zion Church Camp 2009

As promised, here are the camp photos (selected ones only!)

Miranda, the turtle?

Miranda rehearshing her steps for talent night

Talent night...

Melissa...

Me... in jest!

The discussion group I was in...

Was trying to take a shot but got shot instead!

Dr Chris Gnanakan expositing from the Book of Haggai

Workshop on Creation Care

More from Dr Gnanakan...

The children's group had a separate programme

All adult campers posing for the memories

Melissa wearing the jester hat!

Still, my soul be still

Heard this new song by Keith & Kristyn Getty. I found the lyrics meaningful and the song ministered to me. I hope it would minister to you, those of you who are going through trials, temptations or suffering in your life.

You can listen to a portion of it here: http://www.gettymusic.com/usa/lyrics.asp?id=174

Still, my soul be still
And do not fear
Though winds of change may rage tomorrow
God is at your side
No longer dread
The fires of unexpected sorrow

God, You are my God
And I will trust in You and not be shaken
Lord of peace renew
A steadfast spirit within me
To rest in You alone

Still, my soul be still
Do not be moved
By lesser lights and fleeting shadows
Hold onto His ways
With shield of faith
Against temptations flaming arrows

Still, my soul be still
Do not forsake
The Truth you learned in the beginning
Wait upon the Lord
And hope will rise As stars appear when day is dimming