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Mill Road, Portstewart, BT55 7SW
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Friday 17th July 2020

16/7/2020

3 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Psalm 2 v 12
Kiss The Son

Frances On Friday
Every Friday Frances shares a hymn with us.
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Little Things mean a Lot.’
This may be a sentence we use often in our conversations but not everyone may be familiar with the fact that this was the title of a popular song published in 1953.  
Basically, the lyrics of the song point out that happiness does not come from occasional grand achievements, but from the little things that fill our daily lives.
For example, Verse 2 is as follows:

‘Give me your arm as we cross the street
Call me at six on the dot
A line a day when you’re far away
Little things mean a lot’


When was the last time you got a thank you note or an unexpected phone-call which brightened your day?  Did that ‘little thing’ mean a lot to you? Might it be possible that the ‘little things’ in reality turn out to be the ‘big things?’
As we note in Matthew 19:14 NIV, Jesus welcomes the children.  He said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.’
In the Parable of ‘Feeding of the Five Thousand’ we note that Andrew, one of Jesus’ disciples, pointed out that there was a boy present who had five small barley loaves and two small fish, but he added, ‘How far will they go among so many?’
We know the end of the story…everyone well fed and twelve baskets of bread left over!
We learn in James 3:4 NIV that ‘a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong.’
And in that very familiar Hymn, ‘Jesus loves Me,’ we read ‘Little ones to Him belong.’
Our Song this week?  It can only be: ‘The Little Things’
Frances.
Where Is It?
Last week Frances asked where was the Bible reference in the video of the hymn. The eagle eyed of you will have spotted Philippians 4:13,14 on the guitar of the band.
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Let’s Pray for Those still shielding 
Give thanks for the patience and perseverance of those who have had to shield and exercise greatest caution and restraint during lockdown due to underlying health conditions.
Pray that as some shielding restrictions are relaxed, a greater freedom and confidence will be enjoyed by those gradually beginning to edge back to a more normal rhythm of life. ​
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Keswick Bookstall
10 of Those have set up an online bookstall for books which will be recommended during Virtually Keswick this year. There are packs of books at discount. Browse the offers here
https://www.10ofthose.com/uk/partners/keswickministries
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Amos (59 Minute Audio)
If you would like to learn more about the prophet Amos listen to Michael McKelvey—associate professor of Old Testament at RTS Jackson, and author of the commentary on the book of Amos in the ESV Expository Commentary Volume 7, speak about Salvation in the book of Amos​

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/podcasts/help-me-teach-the-bible/michael-mckelvey-on-teaching-amos/

Here are some other resources on Amos:
  • Sermon series on Amos by Phillip Jensen
  • Does God Care? The Message of Amos by Mark Dever
  • Sermon series on Amos from University Reformed Church
  • Sermon series on Amos by Hugh Palmer
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These Three Remain
Lessons we are learning about being the good news, Joanne Smith, minister of Caledon & Minterburn reflects on what her churches have been learning about experiencing and expressing the good news of the gospel in their witness during Covid-19
Read The Article Here https://bit.ly/3iI4UiG
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How To Consume The News
The COVID-19 pandemic and protests of racial injustice, and the media whirlwinds surrounding both, have heightened an emerging tension for Christians. We need knowledge and information to act rightly and wisely, yet excessive news consumption often creates anxiety, division, quarrelsomeness, and frustration.
Read the article here https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/wisely-consume-news/
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Jigsaw
Times for Thursdays puzzle
Janice 2:12
Derek 5:33​

Do remember that the Friday puzzle is larger than the puzzles during the week, so it should take longer to complete. Even Janice takes a little bit longer at the weekend.
​

Play the "Sunset Flight" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=2661e1c9cbce
​
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Where Is It?
Yesterday the sign is at the entrance to Portstewart Strand showing the maximum speed and no motor bikes allowed
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Where Is It?
So where are the fishing pots?
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3 Comments

Thursday 16th July 2020

15/7/2020

0 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Psalm 2 v 10,11
Be Wise

Let’s Pray for Global mission
Give thanks for God’s protection of PCI global mission workers in many different, and sometimes particularly dangerous, situations across the globe during the ongoing pandemic.
Pray that the witness of PCI Global mission workers, partners and other Christian organisations would bring the light and life of Christ to bear among those who do not yet know him
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Moderator Attends National Day Of Commemoration
Dr David Bruce attended today's National Day of Commemoration in Dublin, which was led by Irish President, to remember Irishmen & Irishwomen who lost their lives in past wars, or on service with the Irish Defence Forces with the UN
Read The Article Here - https://bit.ly/38OPyEt
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These Three Remain Podcasts
Have you listened to the These Three Remain podcast? Each episode features stories of Faith, Hope & Love throughout the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, listen via the link below or search 'These Three Remain Presbyterian' in your favourite #podcast software
https://t.co/CzGKoMbtJV
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Keswick Convention Podcast (32 Minute Audio)
James Cary talks to Mike Cain, Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Church, Bristol about Mike's journey to faith, finding a home in Jesus's mansion and how we can find hope not just in what Christ has done, but who he is and what he is like.​

https://www.buzzsprout.com/866182/4514387-10-mike-cain-marvels-at-the-character-of-christ
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Can We Believe The Whole Bible?
It’s simply not possible to follow Jesus faithfully while believing the Bible selectively.
Read the article here https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/reviews/trust-2000-year-old-book/
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Joni on Pain (4:41 Minute Video)
Joni Eareckson Tada talks about the pain we all experience in life. Hear Joni and many other world-renowned speakers and musicians at the Sing! Conference, August 19-21 in Nashville.

Sing Conference
Lots of short (5 Minute) videos from last years Sing Conference with the Gettys.

https://gettymusicworshipconference.com/?mc_cid=47694568ea&mc_eid=def46f1922
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Jigsaw
Janice 1:39
Jean 3:13
Wilfred 3:13

Derek 4:46

Play the "Ship In Portstewart Bay" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0c4c195dee2d
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Where Is It?
Derek guessed correctly - “I think your photo is of an inlet just before the steps at the start of the Strand”
​You can see the inlet from a different angle in the second photograph.

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Where Is It?
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0 Comments

Wednesday 15th July 2020

14/7/2020

2 Comments

 
Bedside The Burn
Psalm 2 v 7-9
Remember The Promises

Prayer
Every Wednesday the Theme of the Blog is Prayer​

Let’s Pray In this moment
A prayer for rest in this strange season of summer
Lord of changing seasons,
we thank you for summer.
This year, like everything else, our summer feels different:
our holiday plans have been disrupted,
our church life feels like it is winding up not down,
school holidays feel like an extension of lockdown,
rather than a welcome change of rhythm and routine.
Often, we treat summer like an escape from reality,
but this year we need it to offer rest on an unfinished journey. We come to you as reeds bruised by a stormy spring,
knowing that you desire to lift us up, not break us.
The smoldering wick of our spirit burns low,
but you want to fan it back into flame,
not see it snuffed out.
Shine again upon our lives like summer sun.
Calm our troubled souls like summer breeze.
Help us to relax into the carefreeness of long summer days
So renew us in mind.
Refresh us in body.
Restore us in spirit.
Recreate us again this summer,
that we might better bear again the likeness of your Son,
and find our rest in him.
In Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
Let’s Pray for Ongoing Witness
Give thanks for the many ways congregations and their members have been able to show and share God’s love throughout the period of lockdown.
Pray that God would enable the building of ongoing relationships with those with whom churches and their members have made new points of contact, asking that gospel opportunities will follow. ​
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Campaigners NI
Pray for the CampaignersNI Holiday Bible Club which will run online from 3rd-7th August, pray that many children will watch each day. There is a video each week from Laura at Campaigners NI each week doing Sunday School on Burnside At Home.
Details are below and there is a promotional video which you can watch if you are on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/campaignersni/videos/2604829463180322/
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Lament & Prayer (1:14 Minute Video)
Rico Villanueva will be speaking at Virtually Keswick Convention (27-31 July). He will conduct a seminar on the 29th about hope, lament & prayer. Themes which we have been examining during Lockdown.
Here is his video with more details:

Facing A Task Unfinished
A recording of this old hymn by the Gettys

Walk, Pray, Talk
Walk, Pray, Talk is our new resource to help you to explore the connection between the place you inhabit in the every day and your faith as you follow Jesus. A great 5 Week guide to walking and praying. Download at the link below.​

https://www.eauk.org/resources/what-we-offer/reports/walk-pray-talk?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_medium=EAUKnews
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Jigsaw
Times for the Tuesday Jigsaw
Janice 1:31
Wilfred 2:50
Jean 3:06
Derek 4:36

​
Play the "Coastline" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=2ff75ab91a28
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Where Is It?
Derek correctly states Yesterday is “little car park on the seaward side on the road between Portstewart and Portrush.” and Eddie said, “Portstewart the gate is on left side of A2 approaching Juniper Hill Caravan Park.” - Ringagree Point.
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Where Is It?
Perhaps a little harder today, where is this little inlet?​
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2 Comments

Tuesday 14th July 2020

13/7/2020

3 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Psalm 2 v 4-6
God Laughs

Wilma Thoughts On Tuesday
Every Tuesday, Wilma shares some thoughts with us.
Good news!  
​

As I write, hairdressers are opening, appointments are being made. Spirits are lifting! During lockdown the topic of hair has been often in our conversations. Many were getting impatient at not being able to access an appointment. Some resorted to DIY trimming, spouses, family members and friends having a go, with quite good results. During this period hairstyles have changed some for the better others less so. Colours have also changed, some virtually overnight! Obviously the biggest change is longer hair which gets out of control and difficult to manage. Dogs have needed clipping and may have had difficulty getting such. This was not a problem for Dougal, who was looking smart after his clipping and I am sure he was happy too.
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In Biblical times long hair was one of the characteristics of the Nazarite vow. Numbers ch 6. The word Nazarite comes from Hebrew meaning to "separate" or to "consecrate". Such a vow could be for a short period or for life as in the case of Samson. He was set apart from his birth for the deliverance of the Israelites from their Philistine enemies. In dealing with them he demonstrated many great feats, as recorded in the book of Judges. The secret of his strength was his Nazarite vow, symbolized by his unshorn hair. The source of his strength was the Spirit of God Judges ch 13 v 25 and ch 14 v 6 and 19.

As a result of his love affair with a Philistine woman named Delilah, he succumbed to her pressure to disclose the secret of his strength, which had a catastrophic outcome. She arranged for his hair to be shorn by the Philistines who gouged out his eyes and put him to work in a prison. Samson had been robbed of his special consecration to the Lord. We read in ch 16 v 19 "his strength left him" and in v 20 "he did not know that the Lord had left him"  
What a tragic statement!  
But there was a way back. In prison his hair began to grow. When the Philistines called on him to entertain them as they offered sacrifices to their god Dagon, he prayed to the Lord for strength. As a result of his great strength and actions, their temple was destroyed and thousands killed including Samson.

There is a way back to God from the dark paths of sin
There is a door that is open and you may go in
At Calvary's cross is where you begin 
When you come as a sinner to Jesus

I learnt this chorus over 70 years ago at Portstewart CSSM .
Wilma

Lessons About Social Media
Lessons we are learning about engaging in the digital space: 
PR consultant Rebecca McConnell offers some guidance & encouragement to churches as they continue to develop their #digitalministry during the coronavirus pandemic.
Read The Article Here
https://t.co/oAvIsT5vdY
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Keswick Podcast ( 32 Minute Audio)
The latest Kes Talk Podcast is out now!
James Cary talks to Mike Cain, Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Church, Bristol about Mike's journey to faith, finding a home in Jesus's mansion and how we can find hope not just in what Christ has done, but who he is and what he is like.
https://www.buzzsprout.com/866182/4514387-10-mike-cain-marvels-at-the-character-of-christ
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Churches Are Now Accessable
The modifications churches made for the #COVID19 crisis could continue to serve people who need them long after the pandemic has passed.
Read the article here.
https://t.co/6UrVXvWFm8
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Jigsaw
The times for Monday’s Jigsaw are

Janice 1:33
Jean 3:09
Frances 3:59
Wilfred 4:32
Derek 5:02
Eric 5:26

A huge entry of times today. I also was told this week that the Jigsaw keeps some people up until well after midnight.

Play the "Portstewart Edgewater" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0ecb3eafed06
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Where Is It?
The pair game can be found at the recently re-opened playground at the crescent.
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Where Is It?
Where would you find this gate?
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3 Comments

Monday 13th July 2020

12/7/2020

4 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Psalm 2 v 1-3
Psalm 2 looks at why the Nations of the world reject God and think that they have a better plan.

Moderator’s Service
In today’s weekly service of worship for the whole Presbyterian Church in Ireland family @PCIModerator continues his Sunday series on Ephesians with 'A united church'. @nbelfastpresby members will also participate in the service
https://t.co/bPlu5QjDMS

Let’s Pray - Return to work 
Give thanks for the opportunity of an increasing number of people to gradually begin to return to work and find pleasure again in fulfilling God’s calling in their employment.
Pray for all returning to work, either from home or in the workplace, that they will be fruitful and effective in playing their part in getting daily life and the economy back to more normal patterns.
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How Can We Sing Through Suffering? (6:41 Minute Video)
Picture Paul and Silas in jail at Philippi. They have been stripped, beaten, and mocked. Their faithfulness to Christ’s call has landed them in the inner prison, and they are sleepless at midnight. Yet, they sing. In this sermon clip from the Sing! Conference 2019, John Piper reflects on this story from Acts 16 with piercing honesty: too often we do not sing during our trials. We grumble instead.

Sligo 20 (30 second Introduction Video)
Another summer conference is no longer able to meet this year so there is now a free week of worship and teaching. Each evening you will see broadcasts from the counties of Cork, Dublin, Down, Antrim, Armagh and eh... Switzerland...
You will be able to access all our online content through the week by either our Website or Facebook page.

Hope & Grief (1 minute Video)
Joanna Jackson will be giving a seminar on ‘Hope & Grief’ during Virtually Keswick Convention (27-31 July). 
Watch below for more info
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Your Seat In Church Is A Seat In Heaven
Megan Hill explores how worship with the church brings us into a heavenly company in the heavenly places.
Read The Full Article Here.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/church-seat-heaven/
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Canterbury Cathedral Cats
You may remember the Dean of Canterbury Cathedral and his cat.
Another of his cats - Tiger has appeared on camera this time.

Jigsaw
The Friday Jigsaw is supposed to be more difficult but some incredible times.
Janice 5:42
Jean 10:17
​
Play the "Portstewart Golf Course" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=1ac0247a6dc4
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Where Is It?
The mystery bench is located on the sea side of the coast road between Portstewart and Portrush just where the Golf Course crosses the road.
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Where Is It? (Frances)
Just to clarify what Frances is looking for - In the Video of the groups singing you will see the Bible Reference “Philippians 4:12,13” Frances wants to know where the bible reference is. You will have to look very closely to see it. We will give you the answer on Friday.​

Where Is It?

Where would you find this?
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4 Comments

Friday 10th July 2020

9/7/2020

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
Philippians 4 v 19,20 Joy Through The Glorious Riches Of Christ.

Frances on Friday
Every Friday Frances shares a song with us.
The ‘Living Stones Quartet’, who will bring to us today’s Song, ‘In Christ Alone,’ came together after deciding to spread the Gospel of Christ through their gift of singing. They have commented that they find joy in bringing meaningful music to a world where ‘the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.’


Composed in 2001, the music for the Song is by Keith Getty with lyrics by Stuart Townend, who states: ‘The song points to what Christ went through. We get to stand before Him, not because of what we have done, but simply because of what He has done.’


You may remember that last Friday I used words taken from Philippians 4:13 NIV. Today, we move forward to Verse 19 of the same chapter, where we read: ‘ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.’  


During this week I received an email from a lady who visited us as Guest Speaker for one of the Meetings of our Ladies’ Group, Presbyterian Women. 
In that email she included a Poem by Annie Johnston Flint, entitled, ‘He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.’  
I wish to share with you the last two verses as they surely speak of God meeting our needs.
Fear not that thy need shall exceed His provision,
Our God ever yearns His resources to share;
Lean hard on the arm everlasting, availing – 
The Father both thee and thy load shall upbear.


His love has no limit, His grace has no measure,
His power has no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus,
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again. ​

​Back now to the ‘Living Stones Quartet.’  As they sing, ‘In Christ Alone,’ do you notice a Bible Reference in a rather unusual place?      

​
‘Where is it??’

Frances.
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Continued Progress 
Pray for continued progress in stemming the spread of coronavirus through observation of necessary restrictions which remain, asking God to spare from local outbreaks or a second spike.
Pray for continued research into finding drugs to treat coronavirus and a vaccine, asking God to use the gifts and skills he has given to scientific researchers to bring his healing and health to the world.
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Family Worship
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren
5-engage-at-home_teddy_fri.pdf
File Size: 512 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Moderator In Conversation (6:44 Minute Video)
David Bruce shares a little of his education & past work - with Christian Unions across Ireland and SUNI, particularly supporting their work in former states of the Soviet Union. This is the 3rd in a short series of videos with the Moderator. http://vimeo.com/433093940

Moderator in Conversation: Professional CV from Presbyterian Church in Ireland on Vimeo.


Discover Portrush
An organisation called Discover Portrush tweeted this picture of amusements at Landsdown in Portrush, I thought you might be interested in seeing it.
https://discoverportrush.com
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Keswick Podcast (41 minute Audio)
Mark 4 - The parable of the sower - Tim Chester
What difference can I make? On our own we can do very little but the parable in Mark 4 reminds us that God grows his kingdom when we speak his Word in his power. God calls us to persevere in obedience and leave the harvest to him. Who knows what he will do in and through us?!
https://www.buzzsprout.com/960415/4380086-8-the-word-as-the-seed-tim-chester-2017
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These Three Remain 
Lessons I am learning in lockdown about busyness. Lorna Moore, (who used to be CUI North Coast Worker) a member of First Dromara congregation, reflects on what she is learning about busyness during lockdown.
Read The Article here.
https://bit.ly/2Z92HUF
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Free Audio Book
Experience the psalms like never before - through heart-pounding fiction When Babylon destroys Jerusalem, as Yahweh warned through his prophets, the captives' bitterness and grief pours out in the Captives' A young Israelite woman is among them, captured by a mercenary Scythian prince. Driven toward Babylon by both hatred and hope, she endures captivity to reunite with her husband. ....
www.ChristianAudio.com
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Aid Merger Concerns
Presbyterian Moderator, Rt Rev Dr David Bruce, has expressed his deep concern at plans to merge the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), and asked the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Borish Johnson MP 'to reconsider this decision for the good of all, not least the poorest on our planet.'
Read The Article Here
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/July-2020/International-development-concerns-Moderator-writ.aspx
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Jigsaw
Times for Thursday’s Jigsaw -
Janice 2:40
Jean 3:47
Wilfred 6.50
Eric 8:24


As usual a larger puzzle for the weekend.
​
Play the "Rowing On River Bann" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=1c478e50e073

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Where Is It?
Frances correctly identified - Grounds of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Offices
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Where Is It?
Don’t forget the Where Is It? that Frances is asking you to identify today.
But where is this bench? You have all weekend to travel the Coast Road trying to find it.
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1 Comment

Thursday 9th July 2020

9/7/2020

4 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Philippians 4 v 12,13 Joy Through Contentment
A short 5 Minute Bible Study.

Global Concern
Pray that as we see progress in dampening the effects of coronavirus, we would continue to be mindful, prayerful and supportive of those in other countries who are still struggling to contain it.
Pray particularly for nations who are battling coronavirus without basic medical resources and for those who have been plunged into poverty by its impact, asking God to protect and provide.
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Family Worship
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren. Download the file below.
4-engage-at-home_dice_thurs.pdf
File Size: 481 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Isaiah (30 Minute Audio)
The prophet Isaiah was given an extraordinary vision and then suddenly, everything in his life changed. Want to know more?
Catch up with the Bible Biogs podcast on the UCB Player app: https://player.lightcast.com/ykjNykTN
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Faith Mission Book Shops
From the 2nd of July all Faith Mission Book Shops will be open with shorter hours during July with some of the out lying shops closing on a Monday. Generally they will be either open 10am to 5pm or 11am to 5pm in shops until further notice. 
Safety is our absolute priority and our staff have been working hard to get everything ready and to make sure you can shop safely. 
Or order online -
​ https://www.faithmissionbookshops.com

They also add the following message:
For those of you who are ministers's can I ask that you let your congregation know that we are now open and that as a thank you if they mention what church they are from we will give the church back 10% of their total spend during the summer months
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How Should We Approach God (4:32 Minute Video)
How should we address God? The Psalms teach us: “O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth” (Psalm 8:1). In this plenary session from the Sing! Conference in 2017, Alistair Begg observes that many of us are unfamiliar with the notion of majesty. We have not had occasion to speak to a king or a queen. Yet we, as God’s people, are invited to sing and pray to the Ruler of the cosmos, the Sovereign over all creation, the most exalted, glorious, and almighty King over all.

Moderator In Conversation (6:40 Minute Video)
Presbyterian Moderator Dr David Bruce continues in conversation – this time talking about his theme for the year 'Home'. Dr Bruce also shares about his work as Secretary to the Council for Mission in Ireland and his thoughts on the church in Ireland today.

Moderator in Conversation: The Theme of Home from Presbyterian Church in Ireland on Vimeo.


Jigsaw
Times for Wednesday’s puzzle :
Janice 2:42
Richard 3:20
Lynne 5:36
Derek 6:10

Jean 6:17
Frances 6:31
Eric 7:59

Play the "White Park bay" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=15eac634bb16
​
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Where Is It?
Yesterday was Of course the NW200 Sign opposite the pits on the Coast Road.
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Where Is It?
Now that the weather has picked up again, why not think back to the snow of 2010 and ask Where Is It?
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4 Comments

Wednesday 8th July 2020

7/7/2020

4 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Philippians 4:8,9 -  Part 3
Joy Through Presence

On Wednesday the Theme of the Blog is Prayer.
Let’s Pray
A prayer of thanks for God’s presence with us on the journey.
​Which links with our bible study today, Joy Through Presence.

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Faithful God,
we pause on this unexpected and unchosen path, somewhere between our Mizpah and Shen,
to raise our Ebenezer stone,
declaring ‘thus far has the LORD helped us.’
You have been present with us on this journey -
sometimes guiding reliably,
like pillar of cloud by day,
sometimes spectacularly illuminating,
like pillar of fire in the night;
always providing like you did daily manna in the wilderness, drawing forth faith one day at a time.
At times we have looked for you,
in earthquake, wind and fire,
but like Elijah at Horeb, mountain of God,
you have spoken in the gentlest of whispers,
and we have found it enough.
Like Samuel in the night,
or Mary in the garden,
we have known you speaking our name,
calling us to learn from you,
to follow you to places
to which we have never been before.
And you will be present with us as future days unfold.
You say,
‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’,
and we reply with fresh confidence,
‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.’
God of peace,
who through the blood of the eternal covenant,
brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus,
that great Shepherd of the sheep,
continue to equip us with everything good for doing your will, keep on working in us what is pleasing to you,
through Jesus Christ,
to whom be glory for ever and ever.
Amen.

Family Worship
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren
3-engage-at-home_paperplanes_wed.pdf
File Size: 499 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Leading Out Of Lockdown
Pray about the many challenges of leading out of lockdown, asking God to help those who lead in every area of life to find the right balance of progress and restraint, wisdom and courage.
Pray for those who lead church life gradually out of lockdown, asking God that he will give them good judgement as they guide his people in their life together and witness to others in these days.
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Christian Unions Ireland
A Prayer diary for the month of July can be found here.
https://www.cui.ie/blog/216/prayer-diary-july-2020
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Global Mission Updates
You can read and download the July August updates from various Global Mission Workers via the link below. Each update includes relevant prayer points to help you support them in their ministry at this challenging time.
https://bit.ly/3cmIDTn
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Peter and Anna Crawford
I received this update from Peter & Anna this week.
Just to let you know of our safe arrival in Athens.
We touched down in 35 degrees heat at Athens airport Friday afternoon, suitably garbed with masks and visors like a couple of space travelers arriving on a new planet.
The Lord gave a safe flight, and sensed his presence. At first we were in a row of three in the plane, but the third person was able to move away to a free seat in another row, making us feel a lot more secure about our anxiety of picking up the virus.
We were met by good friends, and now ECM colleagues, George and Luciana, who took us to the place which is temporary home for the next few weeks till we find a place to rent. It is a very comfortable haven, and we will not begin our search yet, sensing the need for a real rest and to catch up with ourselves.
In Acts it says that Paul was distressed when he arrived in Athens to see so many idols. It's obviously a different situation to day, but there are still many idols and foreign gods, and I guess on this first day or so, we are already feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the seeming impossibility of the task ahead. So, I was very encouraged by Jesus words in reading John 15 today, where he says 'You have not chosen me, I have chosen you". It seems to us that he is saying, I have chosen this path for you at this season in your lives. Go on and you will bear fruit and it will last. 
Appreciate so much the prayers and support of Gods people in Burnside
In Christ
Peter and Anna
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Colin Jenkins
Monthly SCFS Prayer Update from Colin and Sunhwa in Cork - Rudders and bottles. Download the PDF below.
rudders_and_bottles_-_update_124_may_2020.pdf
File Size: 1084 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File


Jigsaw​

Janice 2:28
Derek 5:51
Wilfred 6:52
Eric 8:10


Play the "Beach" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0c743fbfaa8b
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Where Is It?
Yesterday Wilma guessed correctly “the steps at harbour hill is picture today”. The steps leading from the Harbour up to the car park.
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Where Is It?
Where would you find this North West 200 sign.
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4 Comments

Tuesday 7th July 2020

6/7/2020

3 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Philippians 4 Part 2
Joy Through Prayer

Wilma’s Thoughts On Tuesday
Every Tuesday Wilma shares her thoughts
The Royal Ramblers were staying in a cottage near Westport, where the majestic Croagh Patrick mountain 2507 ft is frequently in view, the locals have nicknamed it the "reek" from an ancient word meaning "stack" or "rick". The last Sunday in July is known as Reek Sunday, when pilgrims climb it in honour of St. Patrick, who is reputed to have spent 40 days there.
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Visitors to the area are asked by locals "have you been up the reek?" or "when are you going up the reek?" It is something they expect you to do, so we decided to accept the challenge.
There is a clearly identified path to the summit, but exceptionally rough in places, with loose stones and boulders. There were many walkers on the mountain from all over the world, who provided interesting encounters and conversation on the way. We were about 20 minutes from the summit where there is a small chapel, when I felt I could go no further as I had hurt my knee. At this stage we were aware that the last part had a lot of loose shale and more difficult to climb. I was exceedingly disappointed, having got so far.  My companions did not want to go on without me, which was an added disappointment. We admired the wonderful view of Clew Bay and it's reputed 365 islands, and managed to make our way down the mountain which can be more hazardous than the ascent!
In life, generally, we experience many disappointments, but during this pandemic, many more than usual, either individually or collectively. As a church, our big disappointment was the closure of our church building which resulted in us not being able to meet for Sunday worship or other activities.
However, there has been much blessing through on-line services and the scattered church is growing.
Moses "the man whom God knew face to face" was an experienced mountaineer. He was associated with Mt. Horeb and Mt. Sinai, and the less familiar Mt. Nebo. In Deuteronomy ch 34 we read that Moses climbed Mt. Nebo which is in the land of Moab. God had directed him to go there. He showed him all the land He had promised to give to the descendants of Abraham and told him "I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it". In the wilderness God had instructed Moses to speak to a rock at Meribah to provide water for the Israelites. He lost patience with their complaining and quarrelsome behaviour, and in a rage struck the rock twice with his staff. He failed to honour God.
The picture of Moses, age 120 years, standing on that mountain surveying the Promised land is heart rending. He must have been sad and very disappointed that he was not permitted to lead the Israelites on the last leg of their journey.
I think God is often disappointed with us. Jesus was so, when here on earth. On one occasion He met a rich young ruler who wanted to get to heaven on his terms. He was not prepared to give up what meant most to him, his riches. He rejected Jesus and His salvation. We read in Mark ch 10 v 22 "the man's face fell" obviously disappointed "he went away sad".
We cannot earn salvation, it is not on our terms, our good works can never satisfy God.
Ephesians ch 2 v 8 "it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works so that no one can boast."
Wilma
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Chaplaincy
Pray that God would open up opportunities to show and share his love in the ministry provided through chaplaincy in health care, prisons, the armed forces, education and sport.
Pray for chaplains as they seek to be present in difficult circumstances, listen carefully in conversation and deftly direct others to God, asking for wisdom, tactfulness and boldness.
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Family Worship
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren
2_engage-at-home_ball_tues.pdf
File Size: 576 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Christian Unions Ireland 
The Fruit of Lockdown. How have students been dealing with the ‘new normal’? CUI asked several students to share how God has been working in this unexpected period both in and through their CUs and individual lives.
Read the article here.
https://www.cui.ie/blog/215/the-fruit-of-lockdown
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New Horizon
Online Evening Celebrations 8pm Sunday 26th - Thursday 30th July. Healthy Church Serving Church - Christ’s Body In Action, Chris Wright, Heather Morris, Gilbert Lennox, Barry Forde, Malcolm Duncan.
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Moderator Gives Advice For Re-opening Churches
Presbyterian moderator: To be safe as churches re-open, we will need to set aside some things that we love to do
Read the full article here :
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/July-2020/Longing-to-return-Moderator-s-News-Letter-opinio.aspx
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Keswick Podcast
Our latest Keswick Convention Podcast is out now!
James Cary talks to Director of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity, Andy Bannister. They talk about evangelism, apologetics & terrifying moments in Speakers Corner on step ladders. 
https://www.buzzsprout.com/866182/4414739-9-andy-bannister-apologetics-step-ladders-and-standing-your-ground
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SING
Each year the Gettys organise a conference of music and bible teaching. They have created a playlist on Spotify of the music to be used at the conference this year.​
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5eyuae5iKbtYL8go7yB4ip?si=JgLox68hSQuJAASRPkzuwg
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God Is Our Help (2 Minute Video)
The Psalms remind us that God is not far from us in our trouble. Be encouraged by this reading of Psalm 46 by Kristyn Getty and rest in the promises of God to be with us—and for us—in our time of need.
Psalm 46 Reading
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Is There Such a Thing as Race?
The biblical way of talking about people groups leans heavily in the ethnicity direction, not the racial direction. In the last day when the global mission of Christ is finished, there will be redeemed people “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9).
John Piper has written a fascinating article examining race and ethnicity.
READ IT HERE
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Jigsaw
Janice 2:05
Jean 3:52
Derek 6:08
Wilfred 6:08
​

In response to yesterday’s comment Janice says,
“I study all the pieces before I touch the screen, Getty family singing along.”

Play the "Balintoy" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=20e946118647

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Where Is It?
Of course yesterday was the Big Wheel in Portrush at Kiddieland Amusements.
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Where Is It?
​Where would you find these steps?
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A Little Extra Puzzle
Yesterday I asked - What is the only number in English when written out has all of its letters in alphabetical order? 
Some of you worked out the answer is - 40 - Forty.

3 Comments

Monday 6th July 2020

5/7/2020

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
Philippians 4 Part 1
Joy Through Gentleness
​In less than 5 minutes we look at Philippians 4 v 4-5

Strength For These Days  
Pray for those who have found lockdown exhausting because they have had to pick up extra responsibilities in their family or working life, asking that God will renew their strength.
Pray for those who have found lockdown frustrating as they have been unable to work, have been unwell, or experienced the angst of waiting, asking that God will motivate and re-energise their lives. ​

Download Let’s Pray for this week
let’s-pray_a4_ttr_05-07-20.pdf
File Size: 409 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Family Worship
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren
1_engage-at-home_walk_mon.pdf
File Size: 551 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

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Moderator’s Online Service
In today’s weekly service of worship for the whole Presbyterian Church in Ireland family across the country, Presbyterian Moderator, Rt Rev Dr David Bruce continues his series on Ephesians with ‘A Redeemed Church’.

Christian Unions Ireland (2:45 Minute Video)
For 21 days, the CUI staff team walked 4km a day around our homes to make up the 1460km distance around every campus with a CU in Ireland.
As well as raising awareness for each CU, we raised funds for the IFES Europe Family Fund, to encourage our missionary brothers and sisters across the globe to keep empowering students with the gospel.

Helen Keller
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” Jeremiah 29:11
​
Here is a quote from Helen Keller.
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Think Friday: A Story Of Redemption (2:59 Minute Video) 
Evangelical Alliance - This week in Think Friday, we consider how we might live as people who have experienced redemption in a culture where this is in short supply.
https://www.reimaginingfaith.com/think-friday/think-friday-a-story-of-redemption/2020/7
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EMF Webinar
Tonight, Monday 6th June 7.30 - 8.30 pm (UK time) where José (Pepe) Moreno will be leading our thinking about Evangelizing Catholics – Why and How? Details on the flyer
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Lessons I Am Learning About Waiting
Christine Craig a member of Kilbride Presbyterian reflects on what she is learning about waiting during #lockdown and how Psalm 13 became a source of strength.
https://bit.ly/3gmqYNN
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Jigsaw

Janice 5:49
Derek 10:43 
Wilfred 14:55
Eric 19:26

One comment I received this weekend -
“Janice is unbeatable, can she give us some advise as to how she is so quick?“

Play the "Balintoy Harbour" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=3a2e6e83334f
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Where Is It?
As William has commented, and I couldn’t put it better myself -
the location is - 
“Station Road, Portstewart, flying the Liverpool F.C. flag to celebrate winning the English Premiership for first time in 30 years, Y.N.W.A.”
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Where Is It?
Perhaps an easy one for a Monday morning to ease you into the week.
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A Little Extra Puzzle
If you manage to complete the Jigsaw too quickly, here is another little puzzle for you today.

What is the only number in English, when written down, that has all of its letters in alphabetical order?
Answer tomorrow.
2 Comments
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