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| OCTOBER – JANUARY 2021 | ISSUE 8 |

COVID-19: My Journey of Recovery MENTAL HEALTH MAINTENANCE:

Resilience in the face of everyday stress

MARRIAGE:

Where there is unity God commands a blessing!

INTO 2021: Shaking, Sifting, Shifting

HOME & DECOR:

Re-Evaluate how you build

CHIEF JUSTICE

MOGOENG:

A MODERN-DAY PROPHETIC FIGURE WITH THE HEART OF A SERVANT LEADER THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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CONTENTS

OCTOBER – JANUARY 2020/21

ON THE COVER

CHIEF JUSTICE MOGOENG: A modern-day prophetic figure with the heart of a servant leader.

COVER STORIES 12 Crossing Over into 2021 14 Cover Story: Chief Justice 26 Mental Health Maintenance 54 COVID-19: Recovery Journey 70 Enter In

REGULARS

SPECIAL FEATURES

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Contributors

32 Multisure: More than just a

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Publisher’s Note

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Editor’s Note

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Have your say

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What’s Trending?

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Financial Planning

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Home and Decor

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Pastoral Interview

42

Reconciliation Day

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Fashion

44

Travel: Precious Memories

48

Marriage

58

Parenting

46

Peace & Goodwill on Earth

60

Celebrating Singles

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Rays of Hope

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Kids

52

The Power of Prayer

70

Youth

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As God vir Jou Is...

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Salvation

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Beauty for Ashes

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Health

64

KCM Africa

76

Movies

78

Books

80

International News

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Local News

Cover Plan 34

The Year of the Bible

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Bible Games and Apps

40 Was Christ Actually in Christmas?

Front cover photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/governmentza/15000487348 THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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CONTRIBUTORS

Meet some of our magazine’s amazing volunteer contributors! Want to write for us? Email infor@weservegroup.co.za and we will send you our writer’s guidelines.

PUBLISHER WeServe Media (Pty) Ltd DIRECTOR AND SALES Juanita Zwavel MANAGING EDITOR Claudene Sebolai MANAGING DESIGNER Fiona Milligan SALES EXECUTIVE Leo Nurse CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Jennifer Emedi (Destined for Greatness)

CONTACT DETAILS GENERAL info@tclmag.org.za SUBSCRIBE subscribe@tclmag.org.za SALES Juanita@tclmag.org.za TEL: 081 514 5992 WEBSITE: www.tclmag.org.za

WRITE TO US The Christian Lifestyle Magazine welcomes manuscripts for articles, but only after the author has first consulted with the editor via email with a short description and article brief. We will contact you if we are interested in the article.

WeServe Media Group retains the right to publish articles as per our selection process. Writer’s guidelines are available upon request.

The views expressed in articles and letters are the responsibility of the respective authors and not necessarily the views of WeServe Media and The Christian Lifestyle.

Claudene Sebolai, Hazel Clement, Dion Roos, Tammy Lendore, Andrea Hartzenberg, Gillian Scheffers, Tamlynn Roberts, Rochelle Walduck, Ryan Minords, Sherna Abrahams, Shioban Koopman, Dominique Adonis, Ashley Sauls I, Chrishando Smith, Keshia Adams, Vincent & Marilyn Alexander, Jean & Liza Holder, Dirk Gevers, Ian Brink, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, Denton Goodford, Silhe Mooi, Aneen Jansen, Rev. Christine Blumstein, Claudia van Schalkwyk and Juanita Zwavel.

DION ROOS I have a B.com degree from the University of Cape Town specializing in economics. I am currently studying towards the CFA Charter designation (I have currently passed level 2 and am enrolled for the final level, level 3 in December 2020). I am a financial adviser at Enriching Life, which is a franchise of Liberty Life.

My hobbies include triathlon, tennis, reading, and financial markets.

DOMINIQUE ADONIS I am a wife, mother, leader, entrepreneur, and most importantly, a child of God. I love reading, writing, speaking, studying, and doing life with my family.

I love all kinds of sport but my favorites to watch are cricket, tennis, and athletics. I enjoy listening to all kinds of music but Jazz and gospel are dance-worthy, yes I enjoy dancing too. Since recently, If I’m not adulting, I’m on a video call with someone close to my heart. My favorite quote: “To each there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour.” - Sir Winston Churchill

TAMMY LENDORE I am a 3rd generation PK (Pastor’s Kid). Apart from being a magistrate, I also enjoy playing bass guitar.

I love God, humanity and I am passionate about ministry and music. Quote that I am known for is “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”.

TAMLYNN ROBERTS I’m a Masters graduate in Practical Theology, Pastoral Care and Counselling specified in Dialogical Intergenerational Pastoral Process and Contextual therapy, from Stellenbosch University.

I am currently a tutor and research assistant in the Department of Practical Theology and Missiology as I continue to pursue my PhD. I also serve as a part-time minister and pastoral counsellor. My heart has always remained firmly rooted in community work -striving to cultivate growth and outreach in both my own community of Bellville South and surrounding areas on the Cape Flats.

Furthermore, my hobbies include traveling, outdoor adventures, or relaxing with a good book.

My life motto has always been “work hard, stay humble, be kind…”

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE LIST OF ADVERTISERS

UNMASK YOUR HEART A new item became part of our daily lifestyle. And it’s going to be around for quite a while.

It grants us access to where we need to be. If it’s not with us, we cannot enter for free.

I am chuffed by all the designer ones. Often making it interesting and fun.

This item is called the mask, and it is our brand-new task.

Many cannot be recognised when it’s worn. Makes me wonder who’s who from dusk till dawn.

I have a question for all those wearing it. Is there a mask covering your heart? Why not remove it for a brand-new start?

God will meet you right where you’re at. Broken, battered, with your foundation matte.

Yes! This message is for you, you, you and your crew.

God bless Juanita Zwavel

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Academia Private School Aesthetic Laser Academy Alexandria Christian Academy AmonRa Travel Apostle Wessel Art of Kleyn Baptist Theological College BergVenture Camp Bible Society of South Africa Bluff Christian Academy Bonamanzi Adventures Breakthru Life Church Cape Town Baptist Seminary Carne Interiors Cass Crafting Christian Business League Christian Guide Inside Crest Trust Fudiciary Services Curate Studio Design Dumisani Theological Institute El Shaddai School Embetween Communications Emi World Eshowe Christian School Fowler Tours Gate Ministries Generosity Path Glory Divine Ministries God’s Business (Cudo) Good Hope Institute, USA Grace Primary School Impophomo Kenneth Copeland Ministries Africa Knysna Vineyard Church Kontos & Associates Lewende Woord/Living Word Bible College Maranatha Camp & Conference Centre Mission Without Borders Multisure Corporation (Pty) Ltd. Oasis Water Pascal Malonda PEC PEFM REP Rays of Hope Revival City College River Bible Institute Secondary Citizens Simond Private School Skillspro Group Skogheim TIB Tours Trafalgar Tours Young Lions

Diploma in Ministry Part-time Studies

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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EDITOR’S NOTE

IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD? During the first quarter of 2020, South Africa was locked down together with the rest of the world. At the time, we did not yet understand what tremendous impact COVID-19 would have. We took it in our stride and for most of us it was quite an adjustment to adhere to lockdown rules and get used to the “new normal”. We were never prepared for the many R.I.P’s and online funeral services. Not that we will ever be ready to lose a loved one. How do one prepare for the reality of such dark, depressed, and desperate times? Facing external and internal hardships behind closed doors? How do you resist the temptation to give in to hopelessness?

Feeling powerless and clueless at the same time, how do you keep the faith?

In this publication, Tammlyn Roberts, Doctoral Candidate at Stellenbosch University, specializing in Pastoral Care and Counseling, guides us gracefully on how to maintain our mental health during trying times. Prophetess Hazel Joy provides insight into 2021 and Pastor Dominique writes to the youth encouraging them to “Enter In” to their fullest potential. Rochelle

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Walduck, COVID-19 survivor, Ryan Minords, who saw his family house burned down to the ground, and Keshia Adams, who overcame a life of drug addiction allows us into their lives to experience the transformative power of Christ. In addition to that, there are travel experiences, financial advice, marital and parental guidance, and entertainment and leisure recommendations.

It is said that the “pen is mightier than the sword”. Words, therefore, have the power and potential to influence listeners and readers. We aim to encourage our readers that nothing is too hard for God. It is as the Apostle Paul penned down centuries ago, “faith comes by hearing”; in this case, reading.

May this publication be a gift that you can open again, and again. May you find in its digital pages the words to guide, inspire, and help you navigate through these challenging times. Is anything too hard for the Lord? Only you can answer that.

Blessings, Claudene Sebolai

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LETTERS

Great job! May God continue to use you. It is a huge magazine with lots of great articles and testimonies.

HERE’S SOME AMAZING FEEDBACK FROM OUR AWESOME READERS.

Such a wonderful work, great job!

Gerald Goodwin

GREAT JOB

Rev. Dr. Nicku Mordi

BLESSINGS Well done indeed! I pray unprecedented blessings on this vision and venture

Vivian Rix

What a fresh, beautifully laid-out, enticing, Christian magazine. For God’s glory, by God’s glory.

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Keep an eye on our social platforms for more great giveaways, news and updates! @christianlifestylemagazine The Christian Lifestyle Magazine @tclifestylemag

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Yolanda Petersen

This magazine is filled with inspiration, encouragement, lifeadvancing and interesting articles and so much more! This is no ordinary magazine!

Judy Smith

QUARANTINE KITCHEN SUGGESTIONS

#JERUSALEMA

The “Jerusalema” dance challenge is taking social media by storm. People around the world are sharing videos of themselves dancing to the hit song Jerusalema by South African musician Master KG, featuring the voice of South African songstress Nomcebo. People around the world are sharing videos of themselves dancing to the hit song Jerusalema and say the challenge is bringing the world some much-needed positivity. Get off the couch and release those endorphins as you move your body to the Jerusalema beat. Oh, and don’t forget, snap a video and post for us to join in on the fun.

This one is for the foodies! Cooking experts are taking to socials to help self-quarantined folks come up with inventive ways to use the canned goods they’ve stocked up on! Chrissy Teigen offered followers a chance to tag her in a picture of their pantry — and promised she and her team would come up with a fun recipe based on the photo. If you’re a food blogger, this could be a great way to generate some engagement — and test your recipe inventing skills. Check out @crissyteigen for some scrumptious quarantine recipes.

#INFLUENCERCHALLENGE

This challenge is taking the internet by storm and promises to leave you in stitches. Here’s how it works: Make your family and friends believe you’re a real influencer and record their reactions.

The results of these challenges are pure comedy gold. One “influencer” recorded her parents while she explained that she keeps fit and healthy by exercising daily with her father from 5am to 6am.

Throughout the recording, her father gave her the “why are you lying?” look. However, he started to laugh when she said her family diet excludes meat and carbs like pap. Throughout the recording, her father gave her the “why are you lying?” look.

However, he started to laugh when she said her family diet excludes meat and carbs like pap and, eventually, he walked out and said, “I’m not part of this.” Go check it out on any social media platform.

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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FROM SHAKING TO SIFTING: WITH PROPHETESS HAZEL CLEMENT COVID-19 not only quarantined the world, but it also ushered in the greatest shaking and sifting our generation has ever experienced.

According to Hebrews 12v26 once more the Lord will shake the heavens and the earth. This shaking serves as a prophetic utterance from the Lord to reveal the works of men upon the earth as we see in Ezekiel 13v1015. God’s people covered the wall with whitewash and sealed up holes and cracks with it to keep it from breaking and the Lord said that He will cause a shaking to happen that will break down the wall and expose the foundation. The Lord was about to expose the hidden things of the heart, not to put them to shame but to save them from the enemy’s lies.

The same is happening these days.

This shaking is exposing everything that is not of God and brings with it a divine alignment so we can focus on what God requires from us. The sifting then reveals the distinction between the wheat and the chaff as the Lord prepares His bride for His second coming.

A GREAT SEPARATION The sifting will continue in a deep measure for the next year. This shaking both sifts and refines us as the people of God. Isaiah 48v10 says that God refines us not as silver, but He has tried us through the furnace of affliction. We are seeing 12

the fire of God being poured out in the nations to purify our hearts and test the genuineness of our faith (1Peter1vs6-7). This sifting is also bringing clarity regarding our identity in Christ. There is a call for a new prophetic dimension of holiness sweeping the nations and in this sifting, there is a clear cut away from anything and everything that the Lord does not want us to partake of anymore. He is a jealous God who is zealous about us as His people and longs to dwell in our midst as our God.

THE REFORMATION THAT USHERS IN RESTORATION The word Reformation means making changes to something to set it back on the right path. The reformation is ushering the glory of God into the earth and is aligning us back to the perfect will of God. Will the church ever be the same again? To be honest, I don’t think so. I say this because the spirit of religion has hidden blinded the church to her true identity for many years. A spiritual awakening is causing us to see with clarity who we truly are.

This marks the beginning of a new era! Whereas some might say that the year 2021 is the year that we will see this new thing I believe it has started already. In fact, in the last 4 years, we began to see how the Holy Spirit was leading us in this direction already. The shaking and sifting,

therefore, is not to destroy us but to refine us as the people of God. The glory of the Lord is upon us!

The restoration that will follow the reformation will bring a new level of intimacy with God and a renewed demonstration of His power. These will be the days of the outpouring of the glory of the Lord as believers gather to pray and worship. We will see the Lord take the church out of the building and into the streets. Evangelism will hit the Body of Christ as the harvest is plentiful and ready. We are embarking on a new unity in the church that will cause a revelation of love to flow for one another and many lives will be touched and changed by the preaching of the gospel.

In this season also, even though there will be many battles upon your porch, you will stand in position as the sons and daughters of God and see victory just as Jehoshaphat and his men did in 2 Chronicles 20vs1-19. Trust in God and lean on Him. He is concerned about what you are going through as His children. Watch how the Holy Spirit will invade impossible situations in this season and turn your defeats into victories because the Lord has heard your cry. There is restoration at hand for you as the people of God and no matter how you have experienced the year 2020, you are going into 2021 with knowing that God is for you not against you!

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Mogoeng A modern-day prophetic figure with the heart of a servant leader

By Ashley Sauls I 14

COVER STORY Reading and listening to the claims and comments made by the Chief Justice’ critics on numerous national, public forums, I confidently conclude that it is comparable to calling someone ‘a snake.’ Growing up in Eldorado Park, I understand that to call someone a snake is to imply that the person is fake, highly deceptive, and grossly corrupt.

These are all labels now – wrongly and unjustifiably – linked with the perceived image of the Hon. Chief Justice by his opponents. The purpose of this article is not to make a counter-argument. On the contrary, I use the snake’s analogy to suggest that the Chief Justice is the carrier of the anti-Venom of God. In fact, he is a modern-day prophetic figure with the heart of a servant leader.

It will not be the first time that God would metaphorically use a snake as God’s anti-venom to bring healing to a nation. In the book of Numbers 21:8 (NIV), many Israelites died due to the bite of venomous snakes.

Moses prayed unto the Lord, and God said to him: “…Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live.”

Likewise, our nation is suffering due to the bite of the poisonous snakes of corruption and greed. Like the brazen snake of Moses’ time, the Hon. Chief Justice has been placed on the “pole” of public scrutiny and criticism. However, in this case, not as a symbol of national healing but rather as one not fit for his office, painting him as a religious extremist with no regard and revere for the supreme, democratic constitution of the Republic of South Africa. But, in the words of Max Lucado, “In God’s hands, intended evil becomes eventual good.”

Before I share my personal experience with the Chief Justice, I want to share parts of two of his public speeches. These talks are not only powerfully inspirational but also demonstrate that whether on a secular or religious platform, Chief

Justice Mogoeng’s worldview is rooted deeply in the African notion of Ubuntu and Biblical ethics. What follows, therefore, are not my own words but that of Chief Justice Mogoeng himself at a TEDx talk in Mahikeng and a church conference where he addressed the issue of leadership.

CHIEF JUSTICE MOGOENG’S TEDX TALK: BACK TO THE BASICS In a TEDx talk held in Mahikeng, Chief Justice persuasively argues that society needs to get back to the basics. (The full address can be accessed on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=W7mX0Q3k6LA). The following paragraphs are Chief Justice’s words, almost verbatim from his talk, where he shares about the context within which he was raised, thus guiding his audience imaginatively to embrace the fundamental values of Ubuntu.

“I grew up in an era where respect was taught in the home. During this time, a child could be sent anytime and anywhere by an elder. I grew up as a product of the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Every elder was a parent, and obedience to lawful authority was the order of the day. Respect for self, respect for another, respect for the property of another was upheld.”

“Consequently, sexual abuse of any form, and the abuse of educators, the destruction of the infrastructure needed to shape one’s future was unheard of. We need to deal with the practical issues that we have turned a blind eye toward,” laments Chief Justice. Moreover, “society has degenerated into the state in which it finds itself. It is no longer possible to counsel or rebuke a child you did not give birth to, not that it is any easy to rebuke your own. There is a total collapse of any institution or body that represents authority.

Courts exist, but their orders can be

disregarded by whoever feels they can disregard them. People believe that all you have to do is stand outside a court with placards to tell them what decision to render; if they do not, then it means that they are either corrupt or incompetent.”

WE NEED TO BE UNITED IN DOING THE RIGHT THING Drawing from Scriptures, Mogoeng believes that it is the “ little foxes that ruin and spoil the vine. It is not those highly complex or sophisticated ideas that will get us back to the era where the rocks are soft. It is a return to the fundamentals, a return to the basics. Do we still teach values and ethics in our homes? Do we still teach the values of why our elders have turned out to be who they are now? Or do we think that its something more sophisticated that is gathered from books that will change us into the kind of society and nation we need it to be? Let us find practical ways to instill discipline.

Let us desist from greed because the state in which the world is right now is explained fundamentally by selfish desire. When there is corruption, who speaks? All we need are basic principles, values, ethical standards.

When we know a leader is lying, why do we support that leader looking after his/ her interest? We need to be united in doing the right thing.” “ As a small boy, no one went hungry in my village. Members of the village would seek out those without food and provide for them. You were given animals if you did not have so that you could be a dignified member of the society and so that you could farm with them. As you increase, you would return animals to the owner and keep some for yourself, in line with your agreement. Hard work was celebrated. We were industrious, self-sufficient, farming was encouraged; not anymore. Not when greed begins to define how business is run. No one wants to say anything because there may be consequences THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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should you dare to raise your voice.”

“The solution is easy, desist from greed. Let us define ethical standards from which everyone must live from a tender age. When we embrace those rules, we will have responsible members at every level of society; even when we have leaders in positions of authority, we will never have to wonder whether they will be committed to doing the right thing or not. My simple message, go back to those fundamentals that have proved to work all around the world.”

CHIEF JUSTICE’ SERMON AT A CHURCH CONFERENCE ADDRESSING THE LEADER IN EACH LISTENER In another video posted on YouTube, Chief Justice speaks to a church crowd on leadership. (The full video can be viewed on https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=fJrhFwiNR_M).

Much like the abovementioned excerpt, this, too, is the Chief Justice’s words, almost verbatim. His views on leadership are inclusive, and he believes that everyone, regardless of their vocation, is a leader in their own capacity. “You have to be able to lead yourself before you can competently assume the responsibility to lead others. If you can’t manage yourself, to the point where you are a concern to us or others, then you are not fit to guide other people. In fact, you do not necessarily need other people to be an effective leader. You can be a leading baker of cakes all by yourself.

Those who want cake in your community will look for you. You can be a leading teacher without being a principal, to the point of being consulted by the principal on matters of importance at your school. You can be a leader in the church as an usher.

I was an usher, and I was a leader, and at the time, I was a constitutional court judge already. It was a joy to do, and I was leading without being a leader.” Mogoeng acknowledges the universal need for authentic leaders 16

with good moral values when he says the following, “there is a leadership vacuum in the world. People are tired of self-seeking leaders who make empty promises never intended to be fulfilled.”

LOVE GOD, LOVE YOURSELF, LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR, LOVE WHAT YOU DO! “You have to love God with all your heart, all your mind, and all your strength. When you genuinely love God, then you will be like David, a man after God’s own heart. When Goliath comes against your destiny and the destiny of your nation, you will not allow the uncircumcised Philistine to insult your God. He may arrive fully equipped, with a sword, spear, and shield, but you come in the name of the Lord.

You will remember the challenges

that come against your nation and continent. Like David, you will know that this battle is not mine but the Lord’s. Everyone will know that it is not because of the kind of weapons you were using, but because of the power of God behind you that secured your victory.”

“When you love God, you will assume the position of Joseph. He was confronted with the opportunity to sleep with his boss’s wife. Many would regard that as a golden opportunity, but like Joseph, you would say, “ how can I do this wicked thing against the God that I love?

It is that love of God, which will cause you to assume the position of Mordecai in refusing to bow down to a prime minister of a nation while he was a bondservant. He was a gateman of “no consequence” to many. What they did not realize was

that he was a prime minister in the making. He had to demonstrate his commitment to God so that God could take him from the gate to the prime ministerial office.”

Chief Justice continues to urge the congregants to “love God, love yourself, love your neighbor, and love what you are doing! David had to love the flock he was shepherding in order to lead the flock well. His experience as a shepherd allowed him to be used effectively; to shape his leadership capabilities. That is why when a bear rose against him; he confronted it. He knew that he was in training, and somehow, he must have known that greatness was awaiting him for as long as he surrendered absolutely to the Almighty God. He served a leadership role, not for himself but the God that he loved. The bear and the lion was preparation for the full-blown manifestation of his capabilities. Goliath frustrated the army and king of Israel, but David boldly confronted the enemy of the nation, and the rest is history.”

BE CONTENT AND GENEROUS IN GIVING It is clear that in the

YOU HAVE TO LOVE GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, ALL YOUR MIND, AND ALL YOUR STRENGTH. WHEN YOU GENUINELY LOVE GOD, THEN YOU WILL BE LIKE DAVID, A MAN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART.

abovementioned speeches that Chief Justice strongly opposed the selfserving aspect of human nature. In the TEDx talk, he speaks of ‘basic principles,’ ‘values’ and ‘ethical standards’ being taught to nurture respect for others and property. This kind of grooming would allow them to become productive persons of integrity, serving the interests of the community and not falling victim to greed. Greed destroys. We must be careful to protect our hearts and minds against greed and to practice contentment. Not only to live being satisfied and thankful for what God has given us but also in being generous in giving!

PERSEVERE IN DIFFICULT TIMES In the second speaking insert, Mogoeng focusses more sharply on his own life and experience of leadership. Making mention of his service in the church as an usher when he was already a sitting judge.

In addressing his opposition to the self-serving aspect of human nature, he prescribes a remedy, “love God with all your heart, all your mind, and all your strength.” He mentions three examples of men who gave expression hereto, namely, David, Joseph, and Mordecai. These men were groomed for leadership in less than desirous circumstances but ultimately served in leadership roles because they loved God. Mogoeng illustrates that David’s position as a shepherd, Mordecai’s status as a bondservant, and Joseph’s position as a slave was the preparation for what God had in store—drawn from the margins to the upper echelons of society in the service of God and His people. As the saying goes, it doesn’t matter where you are coming from; it matters where you are going to.

ANOINTING ELDOS In 2018 I made a pilgrimage to the THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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land of Israel as per the instruction of God. While there, amongst many things that God shared with me, I was instructed to call my community –Eldorado Park – to a sacred assembly. The gathering would involve forming a massive human cross in our main road as a symbol of God connecting four communities in my region, namely: Klipspruit West, Kliptown, Eldorado Park, and Freedom Pak. The colour scheme was to be red to represent the blood of Jesus, and a SAPS helicopter should fly over Eldos to anoint our community from the sky. My neighbourhood is no stranger to the sound of a SAPS helicopter hovering over our community. However, the sound evokes a negative memory because the only experience attached to the sound of such an aircraft is that they are looking for criminals. Nonetheless, on this particular day, the sound of the chopper will represent a vehicle with a different kind of weapon, anointing oil with declarations and intercession made against the principalities and rulers of darkness in high places over my beloved community.

IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD? Upon my return, I called the members of my team in the MEGA (Make Eldos Great Again) Movement together and shared God’s instruction with them. Without hesitation, they felt a witness in their own spirits, and from there onwards, we were ready for action. At that moment, one of my team members shared how God spoke to him about inviting the honourable Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng to facilitate the anointing process. Imagine the Chief Justice, prophetically anointing, and releasing the oracles of God over Eldorado Park. We were all thrilled by the mere thought of it. Amidst the excitement of the moment, we realized that it would be nearly impossible 18

to get a hold of the Chief Justice. An invitation of such nature had to be sent well in advance; however, despite the obstacles, we knew deep inside that if this is what God wants, then God will make it happen.

God directed us to a Labour Law Judge resident in our community: the honourable Judge Francis, who wrote a letter inviting the Chief Justice to Eldorado Park. He also cautioned us that it might be too short notice, but given that he is a man of faith, he maintained that he would do as we requested and trusted God with us. Upon our arrival at the Chief Justice’s chambers, we were informed by a reliable source that when the Chief Justice saw the email from Judge Francis, he was convinced that God was instructing him to accept the invitation. We were also informed that Chief Justice prayerfully considers every invitation that he receives and only honours it when he is clear that God instructs him to do so. He does not look at the social status of the host and does not care about scoring public relations points with the media. The office of the Chief Justice ran us through the protocol requirements and security detail as a standard procedure.

At that moment, we realized that hosting the Chief Justice is no walk in the park, and we were honoured that he accepted our invitation to Eldos. We were also cognisant of the importance of unity amongst community leaders to make this event successful and I want to publically acknowledge the role, the spirit and the heart of Evangelist Micheal Moses and his team for joining hands with us in this massive divine task.

A MODERN-DAY PROPHETIC FIGURE WITH THE HEART OF A SERVANT LEADER The Chief Justice arrived punctually and brought his wife along; what a graceful, anointed, and kind-spirited

#JUSTICEFORNATHANIELJULIES

Unbeknownst to us, the presence of the Chief Justice that day in Eldos prepared us for one of the most tragic incidences that we as a community faced. Nathaniel Julius, a Coloured 16-year-old teenager with Down Syndrome, was shot and killed by police in Eldos on the 26th of August. Police allegedly shot Nathaniel after he couldn’t answer the officers’ questions. This senseless and brutal killing of an innocent, defenseless teenager shook our community to the core. Social media erupted with heartfelt messages of condolences. “He was 16. He was hiding from boys that were bullying him. He was eating biscuits; you took his life. He fell under a truck. You took his body and threw him in your van. You took him to the hospital and said he died from Gang violence. He was innocent”, was tweeted by @Ubaidshaik5.

Today, we, as a community, petitioned the relevant authorities that the same road Chief Justice Mogoeng annointed, is renamed Nathaniel Julies Boulevard. We believe that justice will be served for Nathaniel and for every child whose life was brutally taken and whose blood was spilled on African soil. Eldorado Park will be great again. May the record show the Hon. Chief Justice Mogoeng made a significant contribution to this end. Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu!

woman Mrs. Mogoeng is- she definitely completes him. The honourable Chief Justice exited the white vehicle that transported him with a huge smile, and like Moses of the bible, he came out with “rod in hand.” I was tempted, as the first one who officially received him, to ask: “what is that in your hand?” but decided against it because my brain was frantically trying to find the appropriate introduction. I humbly said: “Good morning Chief Justice and welcome to the good side of Eldos.” He shook my hand gently, looked me square in the eye, and said: “Thank you, it is such a privilege and an honour to be here,” gently pulling me toward him and embracing me like a father would his son. As we made our way to the “green room” at the Eldorado Park Stadium, he greeted everyone in his path. We expected him to wear formal attire, but he surprised us with his farmer outfit (cargo pants, casual shirt with a sun hat, and boots). While addressing us, the Chief Justice made it clear that he was not there only to deliver an eloquent speech; he came prepared to pray and clean Eldos with us.

That was exactly what he did. The man took to the streets and picked up papers, and I’m not talking about pretending to pick up a piece of the rubbish while a journalist or someone from his PR or communications department took a picture. No, he, his wife, and staff actually joined us in picking up dirt and cleaning the streets. Afterward, he ushered us in prayer as he went on his knees, humbled himself before the Lord, and made intercession on our behalf. The Chief Justice stood with us in the middle of the Main Road and anointed the earmarked spot with oil as he together with others issued strategic and prophetic declarations over our community. Most importantly, like modernday Moses, he provided clear direction for us as a people. The community of Eldos is eternally grateful and indebted to the honourable Chief Justice.

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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FINANCE

FINANCIAL ADVICE

By Dion Roos

WHAT IS FINANCIAL PLANNING? Financial planning is the process of quantifying your financial goals to develop a realistic path to achieving those goals. Developing a financial plan entails identifying your financial goals (needs), determining what you already have in place to achieve those goals (current provisions), and finally calculating any shortfalls you might have between your current financial situation, and you achieving those goals.

WHY INDIVIDUALS NEED FINANCIAL PLANNING Having a detailed financial plan provides you with a strategy to make practical financial decisions in all aspects of your life.

Following and sticking to a plan allows you the best possible chance of success in achieving your life goals and long-term financial security.

Financial planning can help you prepare for: • Buying a car • Further education • Buying a house • Marriage 20

• •

Children Retirement

HOW TO DO FINANCIAL PLANNING IN UNCERTAIN TIMES Two main areas in financial planning are 1) Protection of Wealth and 2) Creation of Wealth.

1) Protection of Wealth Life cover, disability cover, income protection, and dread disease cover (Life Insurance).

Medical aid and gap cover 2) Creation of Wealth Long-term savings (ie. retirement savings): You should be aiming at putting away 15% of your monthly income from the age of 25 to the age of 65. If you can do this you should end up with approximately 80% of your lifetime income at retirement which is enough to live comfortably as many of your debts and expenses would have hopefully fallen away.

SARS offers us incentives when it comes to retirement annuity contributions - you may deduct up to 27,5% of your gross remuneration or taxable income (whichever is the higher) in respect of your total

contributions to a pension, provident, or retirement annuity fund, subject to an annual limit of R350 000. You are technically getting money back from the tax-man which is pretty cool! So as well as saving for your future which is very important (less than 10% of South Africans can retire comfortably), you are getting money back from SARS every year when you file your tax return. Another tax-efficient investment vehicle that can supplement retirement savings would be a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA). These allow you to invest a maximum of R36000 per year and R500 000 over your lifetime tax-free.

This means that you will not pay tax on any of the income or capital gains that your investments earn in this account.

Medium-term savings: This would be for specific savings goals like saving for a property, a new car, a holiday, etc. or just savings in general. We would determine your savings goals and how much you need to be putting away to achieve them.

Short-term savings: Ideally, you

should aim to build up the equivalent of 6 months’ salary as an emergency fund in a conservative investment vehicle that is readily available for you to use if needs be. This would be for emergencies and unforeseen expenses. (Retrenchment, unforeseen maintenance, etc.)

PRIORITIES WITH REGARDS TO PROTECTION AND CREATION OF WEALTH

NOW IS THE TIME TO AVOID THESE MONEY MISTAKES

By Dion Roos

Life Insurance should be the number one priority for everyone in my opinion. Your ability to earn an income is your biggest asset and without that, you would potentially have to dig into any existing wealth you have created or you would become a burden on your family and friends if you were not able to work due to disability or illness. If you have dependents (children, spouses, etc) who are dependent on some portion of your income, they would also suffer greatly if you had to pass away, become

HAVING A DETAILED FINANCIAL PLAN PROVIDES YOU WITH A STRATEGY TO MAKE PRACTICAL FINANCIAL DECISIONS IN ALL ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE. disabled or ill without the necessary life insurance in place.

Secondly, save for retirement and build up an emergency fund.

Less than 10% of South Africans can retire with their current provisions which are a scary statistic. This means that retirees are putting pressure on family and friends to help them out financially in retirement. This makes it harder for the younger generation to save enough for their retirement as they are helping their parents financially to live in retirement. Having an emergency fund of 6 months’ salary is vital as it prevents you from having to take out high-cost loans or credit cards. The benefits of having an emergency fund are more relevant than ever given how many people are losing their jobs or having to support other family members who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19.

HOW TO SAVE WHEN PEOPLE ARE JUST TRYING TO SURVIVE FINANCIALLY Save first and spend afterward. Drawing up a realistic budget and develop good spending habits. Look at your current expenses and use this as a base going forward. It is not realistic to make drastic changes to your budget overnight, but slowly starting to spend less and save more is a simple and effective approach.

Determine where you would like to be financially and start making incremental changes to your spending habits to get one step closer to where you want to be.

We need to be even more mindful of how we manage our money and how we engage with our financial planning for the immediate future. Things may get harder before they get easier. If anything, the world around us has become considerably less predictable.

Not budgeting is one of the first places that we overlook in our financial behavior when life becomes chaotic. When income and costs fluctuate, we can be tempted to let go of our budget and it’s not always easy to pick up this habit again.

Misusing credit cards is another mistake that is too easy to make. It’s a common mistake because so many of us make it! If you feel like your credit cards are out of control, then let’s chat about how we can make a plan to sort that out.

Another mistake is to assume that we can afford something if we can afford the repayments. If you’re facing this situation, remember that your circumstances may change one, six or ten months from now, which may impact your ability to meet these repayments in the future.

As lockdown is lifted, shops and credit providers are going to do all that they can to recoup lost income; it will be extremely tempting to overspend. If you need an impartial voice to help you moderate your spending, just call!

Dion Roos, Enriching Life (BCom); Financial Advisor; Representative of Liberty Group Limited; Liberty Group Limited is an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP No.2409); T: +27 21 674 2115; F: +27 21 674 2021; E: dion.roos@liblink.co.za; W: www.enrichinglife.co.za THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT

IAN BRINK - ESTATE AND TRUST PRACTITIONER (TEP® FPSA™ MTP™)

Hebrews 9:16: For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. Hebrews 9:17: For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. A will is a dead document and carries no legal authority until the death of the testator occurs. It is not like a power of attorney which a person has over another which is a document that is in force as long as the person it is designed to protect is still alive.

Once that person passes away, then the power of attorney is null and void and at that time the will or testament is activated and the final wishes of the testator are then carried out.

A Will is a legal document which allows the lawyer of the deceased or testator to divide their estate according to their wishes while they were still alive. While the testator lives, the Last Will and Testament may be changed, but once that person dies, there can be no more changes to that Will because it now is in force. The testator is a person who makes or leaves a Last Will and Testament to give instruction on how to divide up their estate to those named in that Will after their death and not before. This is another section of Scripture which puts the death knell to the myth of free will.

But how do you prevent the 22

Taxman from collecting more than

Fiduciary Institute of Southern

his fair share of taxes? How do you

Africa (FISA)

see to it that your dependant family

After your death, the appointment

are taken care of financially, without

of your choice as Executor is not

incurring unnecessary taxes? How

automatic. The person or entity

do you ensure that your hard earned

you nominate will have to apply to

assets are securely passed on to

the Master of the High Court to be

your family? Who do you trust

granted the power to step into your

enough to ask to stand in your

shoes. This is done by issuing Letters

shoes and collect all you assets, pay

of Executorship.

all debts and transfer the balance to

The Master has to register and

your heirs? Does that person have

accept your Last Will and Testament

the expert knowledge to administer

and then appoint your nominated

and wind up your estate?

Executor.

One word, and one word only, will

The Office of the Chief Master of

solve this problem – Planning.

the High Court says that a “natural

THE EXECUTOR In brief, the functions of the executor are to: • Control and protect the assets in the estate; • Identify heirs and ultimately distribute the assets to them; • Draw up accounts that reflect all assets, claims against the estate and how the residue will be distributed; • Pay debts and file the final tax return.

Who can be an Executor?

• Your spouse; • Another natural person (such as a family member or friend); • An attorney, or a firm of attorneys; • An accountant, or a firm of

person” (as opposed to an entity, such as a law firm) who is nominated as your Executor and who is personally going to liquidate and distribute your estate, is not strictly required to have an agent assist him or her.

However, the Master prefers that any layperson be assisted by a professional person or body, as the Administration of Estates Act places specific duties on the Executor to fulfil and for which he can be held liable, should he not comply. As ‘ignorance of the law’ is no excuse, or is not a valid defence, the lay Executor is very vulnerable when acting without the assistance of a professional person.”

• A trust company

HOW DO YOU NOMINATE AN EXECUTOR

• An accredited member of the

You nominate your Executor by

accountants;

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

23

writing your choice into your Last Will and Testament.

If you die without nominating an Executor, or if your nominated Executor is not available to take up his duties, your beneficiaries must choose the person they would like to act as the Executor.

They will then have to nominate, in writing, their choice to the Master. “If all heirs are in agreement, the Master will normally appoint this person but may ask this person to lodge security or obtain the assistance of a professional agent, depending on the person’s knowledge, relation to the deceased, etc.

Check your Last Testament and Will. Plan how your wealth will be distributed in your Will. Ensure you have an expert professional and knowledgeable Executor.

Double check your Last Will and Testament.

EVANGELISTIC AND PROPHETIC MINISTRY Of Wessel van der Merwe

EXECUTOR FEES: GROSS VALUE The maximum fees that an Executor can charge are 3.5 % of the gross value of your estate and 6% of income accrued and collected after death. The Executor is not obliged to charge the full amount. These are default rates, meaning that if a professional person or body is nominated as an Executor and no fee is stipulated in your Will, then the default rates apply.

The testator should meet the prospective Executor if you are contemplating appointing a professional. Ask questions, then make your nomination only when you are happy with the whole picture. “You wouldn’t buy the cheapest TV and you shouldn’t select an Executor only on price.

CONCLUSION Plan to die. Plan to distribute your wealth among your heirs. Plan to save on excessive taxes. Plan to protect your wealth for future generations.

Get an expert professional fiduciary specialist to assist you with planning your estate, drafting your Last Will and Testament and who, as Executor, will take care of the administration of your deceased estate. Someone that will take even better care of your assets, than you have.

Appoint the right Executor.

ONLINE PROPHETIC SCHOOL CAMPS AND CONFERENCES EVANGELISM PROPHETIC MINISTRY LEADERSHIP TRAINING

CONTACT INFO aposco@apostles.co.za 0791941277

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Contact us with your project today @ emiworld.org.za

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We are very excited to be launching a two year NQF 5 Certificate in Christian Ministry in 2021!

This certificate is accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupation (QCTO) and will prepare a learner to operate as a Christian Religious Professional who directs and conducts the ministry functions in a faith community to facilitate spiritual growth, nurture fellowship, help members develop a Christian lifestyle, provide strategic leadership, and develop a missional practice that shares the gospel and serves the community.

THE VISION OF LEWENDE WOORD LIVING WORD BIBLE COLLEGE IS THE TRAINING OF STUDENTS AS LEADERS IN WHATEVER FIELD OF INFLUENCE THEY FIND THEMSELVES AND WHO ARE INSPIRED, EMPOWERED, AND LED

BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. AT PRESENT WE OFFER FULL-TIME, PARTTIME, ONLINE, AND DISTANCE LEARNING STUDIES IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY, THEOLOGY, COUNSELLING, AND BIBLICAL STUDIES.

Students who can only study parttime have the option of Bible Study or Counselling training for self-enrichment. People who are employed or residing outside of Pretoria have the option of online or distance learning studies. An inductive Bible Study course is offered online and through our distance learning office students can obtain a B.Th. degree or a certificate in Counselling in collaboration with the South African Theological Seminary (SATS).

FACEBOOK: LEWENDE WOORD LIVING WORD BIBLE COLLEGE INSTAGRAM: LW_BIBLE_COLLEGE EMAIL: FULL & PART TIME STUDIES:

ptcollege@lewendewoord.co.za DISTANCE LEARNING:

biblecollege@lewendewoord.co.za GENERAL ENQUIRIES:

info@lw-bc.co.za

WWW.LW-BC.CO.ZA THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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Being content with life and all its expectations and realities is important to each one of us. Resilience in the face of everyday stress is a skill that is largely lacking during this time. Add to that the ability to build and maintain relationships with those around us, and we are left with all the factors that filter into the concept of mental health. Mental health relates to our social and emotional well-being as individuals and communities. As Christians, we are blessed enough to have a belief system that serves as a protective factor amidst all of life’s chaos. In this, we hold fast to the belief that our strength is found in Christ Jesus and the comfort of His Holy Spirit.

Living in the Spirit allows us to seek refuge in the truth that there is always a God in control and makes the load a whole lot lighter knowing that we are connected to a Being bigger than ourselves. Having said this, we are not guaranteed that we won’t face psychological challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. However, it is also good to know that these forms of suffering are not always our fault and we certainly do not serve a God who wants to see us suffer.

Furthermore, the Bible indeed reminds us in different ways that God wants us to be whole and well, it also reminds us that suffering is a very real part of this earthly life. The test always comes before the crown. In 1 Peter 5:10, the Word tells us that ‘The God of all grace, who called us to his eternal glory in Christ, after we have suffered a little while, will Himself restore us and make us strong, firm and steadfast.’

Therefore, it is a treasure that we share both in the suffering and joy of Jesus, but with the added promise to be restored and to experience that which is righteous, assuring, and good. In the meantime, I am sure the question arises in your mind- as it does in mine even more so lately- ‘What do we do to cope in our current state? How do we preserve our mental health while dealing with life’s EVERYDAY struggle?’

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Inevitably, there are days so gloomy that we do not even have the strength to ask these tough questions; let alone reach for our Bibles or sit in prayer before Father God. What do we do then? Do we throw in the towel and aimlessly wait on God to bring change? Perhaps turn to substances or unhealthy habits which we know never truly make things better? Yes, we have all been there before…

Thus said, one of the most valuable lessons we should cling to maintain our mental health is firstly NOT TO PLAY THE BLAME GAME with ourselves or beat ourselves up for how we feel mentally and emotionally.

Start by accepting that nobody is going to feel awe-inspired and healthy 24/7. Accept that even on the days where you struggle to pray, the reality remains that God is ever-present. He listens because we are gifted with a Holy Spirit Helper which speaks on behalf of us when we simply cannot find the words.

Another means to maintain mental health is to FEEL EVERYTHING, and to find an outlet for our struggles, pain, and hurdles, instead of trying to escape from them. Coping mechanisms such as repression and denial can only keep us upand-running for so long. Feel your emotions both negative or positivewhether this takes place through writing, journaling, speaking, or even exercising. We are holistic beings; our physical bodies often affect our minds and our minds affect our Spiritualwellbeing. Find your way to ‘Let go and let God’.

When working through emotions, let us gently remind ourselves that it is more than okay to feel. As the saying goes: “eyes that cry always tend to see clearer once it is all over”.

Of course, an added comfort is to surround yourself with loved ones who understand, as we always feel

a little better when we know we are not alone. In the same breath, the sad reality for us as believers during this time is the added struggle of not being able to physically gather in our church communities for fellowship and encouragement. Nonetheless, draw strength from people who are with you physically; and even if you are not as close to those in your household, perhaps now is the time to realize what you may have in them.

A last often-controversial coping tool- especially in certain Christian communities- is that ‘it is perfectly normal to seek professional psychological help’. If your burdens get too heavy to bear alone, particularly regarding your mental state and psychological health- seek help from either a psychologist, counselor, or well-trained Pastoral caregiver. It was never God’s intention for us to carry burdens on our own; and if we have exhausted all of our avenues, or just can’t seem to find peace, seeking professional help is the answer. If as Christians we believe that the body of Christ is made out of different parts and we all have a calling, trust that a well-trained psychologist will provide you with the assistance you need to reach a healthier state of mind.

We all need a balance between our mental, physical, and spiritual health to truly be holistically healthy people and this takes lots of work.

Work which is never easy and which doesn’t guarantee that we will ever be perfect in every sense. Thus, perhaps what we should strive for is merely the ability to listen to ourselves and decern how we are experiencing and coping with life, to act where necessary. After all, mental health and spirituality are based on a connection between ourselves and God; it is not a destination but a journey, and the process is ever-changing and moving.

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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DESIGN TRENDS SHAPING THE NEXT DECADE

By Gillian Scheffers

The construction industry is set to go back into growth within the next few months, making 2021 the perfect time to reevaluate how we build.

In terms of looks, we’re seeing a rise in simplicity and reduced consumption, which is driving a trend for better-designed houses. Clean lines and contemporary housing styles, such as mid-century modern and minimalist aesthetics will continue to rise in popularity as homeowners try to escape the clutter and busyness of modern-day life. This translates into more open and liveable homes, with a focus on comfort and style.

Below we look at 5 trends that will influence the design of our homes and interior spaces.

GO GREEN

With the looming water crises and the instability of the South African power grid, the trend of increased eco-consciousness will outgrow the early adopters and push mainstream.

More and more homeowners are installing items such as water collecting tanks, boreholes, gas cookers, solar paneling in an attempt to be more “self-sufficient” and not reliant on government entities to supply their basic needs.

This sustainability trend is slowly being introduced in home decorating with the increased use of recycled materials and upcycling old furniture – these are more affordable and easier to reach.

Not ready to go completely “green”?

Easy wins such as energy-efficient lamps, low flowrate sanitary ware fittings are as good a start as any. Although the initial prices of these fittings and materials are slightly more expensive than its counterparts are, in the long run, there are substantial savings to your utility bills.

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When it comes to how we build our homes, the biggest trend going forward will be building complete sections of houses in factories and then taking them to site for assembly.

The process is a lot quicker and not as labor-intensive as the traditional building system.

One of the biggest opportunities from this change is more quality control and more time in the design phase, all adding up to fewer excuses for poor design and inefficient building.

Not all modular homes are the same; some arrive on-site as fully fitted units with bathrooms and kitchens in place, while others come flat-packed and ready to assemble in just a few days.

Whichever the chosen system, the off-site construction industry is evolving to offer products for every budget, from starter homes to bespoke custom-builds.

For every house is built by someone, but the builder of everything is God (Hebrews 3:4).

TSIDE I U N O

greater comfort and reduces consumption bills.

With the lockdown we have experienced around the globe amid the Covid19 pandemic, the period of isolation has made us all increasingly aware of how our interior spaces affect our moods, our ability to work, and our physical comfort, more homeowners are looking to adopt greenery into their lives.

A trend that has been coming through quite strongly over the past year is the need for inside-outside spaces Larger opening sliders or stacking doors that can be folded out of the way so that your home interior bleeds out onto courtyards/verandas. This approach declutters and maximizes the available natural light.

Is an upward trend, both for new buildings and for renovated buildings.

Automated systems are increasingly in demand to control the temperature, light or security of homes – especially now that the new generation of homeowners are digitally savvy #millennials.

Today’s consumer expects customizable and professionally installed systems, which are easy and convenient to use. Devices such as fans, television sets, air conditioners, motors, heater, lighting systems, etc. are the ones that are typically used in residences. Users normally use a web or android application to give instructions to these systems.

A smart home offers its users

AUTHENTICITY IS KEY

The diversity that has been lost in the sameness of the dense apartment blocks or the copy/paste design of the security estates we live in fights back through the expressiveness of our interior spaces.

While bespoke has always been popular, more and more of us are seeking products created in smaller batches and limited runs which showcases our individuality as well as growing respect for handmade craftsmanship and artisanal goods.

Organic materials like wood and clay are coming to the forefront as we embrace the handmade and ‘perfectly imperfect’ characteristics of nature.

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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“OKAY LORD, YOU SAY MOVE, THEN WE MOVE” Pastor Jean and Liza, together with their three children Juandre (17), part of the worship team as a vocalist, Bethani (15), drummer girl, and youngest, Marizel (13) sings like an angel and plays the guitar, is pastoring the vibrant New Life Family Worship Church in Alberton, Johannesburg.

WHO ARE PASTORS JEAN AND LIZA HOLDER AND HOW DID YOU COME TO FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST? We both grew up in Christian homes, where our parents served in the church. Pastor Jean’s father was a worship leader and elder while his mother; Sunday school superintendent, and a musician in Kathu in the Northern Cape. Pastor Liza’s dad was church treasurer for years and her mom was the organist in Kriel, Mpumalanga. So we were very fortunate to grow up in the church pews. There we met the Lord ourselves as our personal Saviour. And that’s also where we met each other in 1996 at the AFM church in Kriel. He was appointed as the youth leader and I was the worship leader, and that’s basically where our ministry started.

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HOW AND WHY DID YOU START NEW LIFE WORSHIP CHURCH?

Albertonin April 2013. There we

About 6 months after we got married, April 2002, a visiting pastor came to the church where we served and he prophesied a word over us. That prophetic word was confirmation to what was in our hearts at that moment as we had already discussed the fact that we were called into ministry. However, he said, that we would go into ministry as a family with our children.

We had no children yet and just started Bible school.

While living in Mozambique from 2006 - 2013, we co-founded a church, called New Life Christian Center, along with Pastors Andrew & Wyona Ferreira. But due to workrelated moves, we had to relocate back to South Africa and settled in

Alliance International and decided

met Dr. Gray Berry of the New Life to help where we were needed in a local church. Around August 2016 we felt the Lord showing us, through Liza having 3 distinctive vivid dreams between June & July, it’s time to move out and start a ministry of our own. There was an urgent message of “Move now!” So 14 years after that first prophesy, we launched the NewLife Family Worship Church, with our family and two other friends.

That raised quite a few eyebrows, for not waiting for January, but Pastor Jean was like Abraham saying “Okay Lord, You say move, then we move”

WAS IT EASY TO NAME THE CHURCH? HOW DID THE NAMING COME ABOUT?

PASTORAL INTERVIEW For us, it was a new season and a new life awaiting us, and our ministry foundation was laid in the New Life Church in Mozambique. We sat with our children and made sure they understood what God was doing and asking of us and what it would mean and what that would demand of us as a family, running a ministry. They were all on board and we decided that we want it to be a real family church. Worship to us is a lifestyle and very important so it had to be a worshipping church. We all prayed about it and our son Juandre, aged 13 at the time, suggested the name, and immediately we agreed in our spirits. That’s how we came to “NewLife Family Worship Church”

HOW HAS THE CHURCH TRANSFORMED FROM WHERE YOU STARTED TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW? We started very small with just a handful of people who weren’t attending a church at that time, renting one space in a building. However, we persevered and ran the ministry just like we would a bigger church. Early on in the ministry, as soon as we had some money, we started a weekly feeding program for the local homeless people. The Lord has been blessing us so much, as the church grew, we could expand, so now we can accommodate a Sunday school, coffee lounge, youth room, and an office. We almost started as a “missions” church, but as we grew, we have transformed into the “family” church we are now. We are also now doing monthly food parcels for people in need, instead of just one meal a week.

Time and man-power. Pastor Jean is not in full-time ministry, because we don’t want to be a burden on the church’s finances. Therefore, getting into the community is difficult if you only have weekends available and a limited amount of volunteers, as they too have their jobs to attend to. But also a lack of commitment among people in general. It’s as if going to church and serving the Lord has become secondary in a lot of people’s lives here in the city. You see people jogging on a Sunday morning, gardening, and going shopping and it makes you feel sad for them because the coming of the Lord is at hand and they are not taking it seriously.

One of our goals was to write scripture songs and record it, to send to rural areas. Studio time with the artists had to be canceled due to the ban on traveling, as some of our musicians, songwriters, and singers were supposed to come from Mozambique & Cape Town for example.

We were also going to have our first New Life Easter Conference with guest speakers along with other NewLife Alliance churches, which had to be canceled. Our other goal was also to start a music & worship school for anyone who wants to learn more about music and worshipping the Lord in Spirit and Truth. But I believe this will still come in His time.

Also, buying grocery vouchers to help people in need during the lock-down, depleted quite a lot of our funds, but we did have people donating towards this initiative and with that, we were able to help more people than we thought would be possible. And we firmly believe in God’s promise, that if we give, it will come back to us “good measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more and running over into your lap”

HOW DO YOU GET YOUR CONGREGANTS TO PARTICIPATE IN CHURCH LIFE? DO YOU HAVE SPECIAL MINISTRIES ETC?

WHAT WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO FEELS LED TO CHURCH PLANTING?

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE IN REACHING YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY?

We run a discipleship course once a year. We have ladies teas and men’s breakfasts. We also have Friday night Care Groups, where we do Bible study on different topics, to help people grow in their walk with God. At this moment we are doing a course on Intercession and prayer. At the same time on Fridays, our youth have bible study and “socials” alternating every other week.

HOW HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED YOUR MINISTRY GOALS FOR THE YEAR?

Be very sure that you heard from God, and get confirmation. Our church plant was confirmed by 3 people, without them knowing what was in our hearts and that we were even considering it. It’s not all that easy to start from scratch, but if you trust in God, move when He says move, stop when He says stop, and are sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, He’s there with you every step of the way.

MULTISURE:

MORE THAN JUST A COVER PLAN

Face, head, and heart of Multisure, Denton Goodford (MD) chats to us about his vision to empower others through Multisure.

YOU HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS SINCE THE YEAR 2000, WHEN WAS MULTISURE CORPORATION BIRTHED AND WHAT WAS THE REASON? At the time I was practicing as an advocate. Daily I interacted with people who made no provision for unexpected legal fees, but they were spending thousands of Rands on all sorts of insurance policies and medical aid. Upon enquiring from clients as to why they did not take out legal insurance I almost always got the same answer, “I never thought I would need a lawyer.” It was also during this time, early in my legal practice, that I was introduced to the concept of network marketing. We did well with the company we were involved with and travelled to the USA to attend a conference.

During this time, I got the idea of combining legal cover and network marketing and started what was then known as LegalSure which later became Multisure Corporation. LegalSure provided people with the opportunity to take out affordable legal cover and start a business of their own through our network marketing system.

Later, on the request of clients and independent 32

consultants, we added funeral cover and currently have a few add-ons in the case of the latter product.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS AND WHERE DO YOU DO BUSINESS? Our company will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in Oct this year and we do business throughout South Africa although we only have four offices currently. We hope to set up more offices in the near future and expand into the rest of Southern Africa.

HOW IS YOUR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY DIFFERENT IN COMPARISON TO THOSE WHO EXPLOIT PEOPLE AND LEAVE THEM FINANCIALLY VULNERABLE?

Our business opportunity in based on network marketing and as is the case with almost all successful and effective business models, unscrupulous and opportunistic people always come along and “try their luck” with others by tweaking a successful model. There is a very fine line between network marketing and illegal pyramid schemes and even experienced business minds and highly educated people get confused and cannot distinguish the one from the other. The major difference is

that in a genuine network marketing company, you get compensated for selling the product of the company primarily and not for “bringing people on board”. Secondly, there are real products of value that are being sold to others without excessive profit margins or commissions – products that would benefit them whether they make use of the business opportunity or not. Genuine network marketing companies market products of which the costs are market related and not obviously inflated so as to benefit others financially. Thirdly, many of these unscrupulous people and companies have seen this requirement for a genuine product that must be sold (as stated by authorities in different countries and by the courts) and therefore they start and run illegal pyramid schemes disguised as network marketing companies by selling “gimmicks” which make the company look legitimate but it is actually just a scam because their products are of little or no value to those who purchase or subscribe to it. It is just a front and with the rise in digital products this is exactly what is happening lately more and more throughout the world. Experienced and knowlegdable network marketers who have stuided the industry in-depth can spot a scam a mile away. Sadly many people who are desperate for a better life and need to earn an income lindly joins these

scams and burn their fingers. Later they then blame the entire network marketing industry.

PLEASE ELABORATE ON YOUR “EXTRA INCOME OR BUSINESS” OPPORTUNITY. The franchising model has been around for years all over the world.

Every McD, KFC, etc that you see around you is almost certainly a franchise of the main company, meaning that the owner of that branch owns the rights to sell the products in that area or from that location but does not own the actual company. Franchising is one of, if not the most successful business models in the world today, and many people would love to start a franchise business to open their own KFC, McD or other business but they simply don’t have the money to invest in order to do so. Besides, it costs more than R5 million just to open one such branch and it can take years before one sees a return on your investment, never mind the long hours, staff issues, overheads, etc. That is where network marketing creates almost the exact same model as franchising but without the huge upfront costs, overheads and other entry barriers. In fact, network marketing is called “franchising through people” by many because it is so similar to the franchise model and provides similar benefits to the person in the street desiring to earn

an income through his/her own business – a network marketing business. Done right, with the right company who has a genuine network marketing model, the ordinary person in the street can become part of a successful concept and business model. I have personally witnessed this over many years of studying the industry as well as in our company.

WHAT DOES SOMEONE NEED TO DO TO BECOME PART OF YOUR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY? I always advise that, to be successful with our business, one must have the drive to succeed, constantly look to improve, be teachable, be passionate about helping others succeed and have a “never give-up” attitude. Apart from that our business requires that the person takes out a policy with our company and make a R500 investment which provides the person with everything he or she needs to get started and earn an extra income with his / her own business fully backed and supported by us. This R500 start-up fee comes with a 30-day no-questions asked money back guarantee. We have an alternative option for more serious people who can invest R8900 and whom we then work with to “manage” a certain area or region in the country.

Maranatha WE ARE A CHRISTIAN RETREAT AND CONFERENCE VENUE WHICH PROVIDES AFFORDABLE AND COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION Phone (011) 768 7682 Cellphone 083 464 8340 Email info@maranathacampsite.co.za www.maranathacampsite.co.za

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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THE YEAR OF THE Celebrating 200 years of Bible work in South Africa with the Bible Society

200 YEARS OF BIBLE WORK IN SA IS AN ACHIEVEMENT. WELL DONE! PLEASE SHARE WITH US YOUR JOURNEY WITH THIS GREAT WORK YOU ARE DOING. In a nutshell, the Bible Society journey has been one of hope throughout the past 200 years. God’s Word, when received in faith, inspires faith, hope, and love. We live in a beautifully diverse nation, with many different languages contributing not only to our conversations but also to our South African litany of prayer and praise to God. It follows that we should all hear God speaking to us in our very own heart languages.

It has been a journey to ensure that all South Africans have the Bible available to them in their heart languages. Thus far, the Bible Society has ensured the translation of the Bible into all eleven official languages. Work is continuing for smaller language groups in South 34

Africa. It has been a journey to ensure that all South Africans, no matter where they live, what their circumstances or any special need may be, may have direct access to God’s Word. The Bible Society produces Bibles in print, audio, digital, and braille formats, and seeks to ensure Bible distribution throughout South Africa – well over 44 million Bibles since 1950 alone.

It has been a journey to ensure that, through these Bibles, God’s Word finds its way into our hearts.

Bible engagement, literacy, and increasingly, Bible advocacy, are also part of the journey. It has also been a journey of incredible Kingdom partnership. None of this would have possible without the prayers, involvement, and financial support of the churches, individuals, and foundations that help to complete the Bible Society story. And the journey continues.

Dirk Gevers, CEO of the Bible Society of SA HOW AND WHEN EXACTLY DID BIBLE SOCIETY BRANCH OUT IN SA? On 23 August 1820, the founding meeting to establish the South African Bible Society took place in Government House (currently Tuynhuys) with Sir Rufane Donkin, the Acting Governor of the Cape, as Chairman. It was established by the British and Foreign Bible Society as an auxiliary. Over the years, work began in other parts of the country with offices in Durban and Johannesburg.

In 1948, Bible Society work began to function as a unit throughout South

Africa, still under the British and Foreign Bible Society.

On 1 November 1965, the Bible Society of South Africa became an autonomous Bible Society in its own right.

ANY VISION IS NEVER WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES. WHAT WERE YOURS WHEN YOU STARTED IN SA AND WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES LIKE NOW?

are currently at a serious disadvantage in our educational system when it comes to literacy. The materials will be used within a structured Early Childhood Development (ECD) context. They will also, hereby, be introduced to the Bible at an early age. Each gift of R100 will ensure that one person will receive a Bible, one child will receive literacy material and also, support will be given to three translation projects for people in South Africa who do not yet have the Bible in their heart language. We will rejoice if the people of South Arica share the gift of God’s Word in celebration of Bible Society’s 200th birthday.

Well, I wasn’t there in 1820, but I should imagine that transport and logistical infrastructure would have presented a practical challenge. Perhaps, nowadays, our challenges are more internal – many do not see the relevance and value of the Bible. Of course, financial sustainability is always FOR SOME READING THE BIBLE IS A DIFFICULT a challenge for any non-profit work, and this challenge is TASK. HOW CAN ONE START TO CULTIVATE A intensified with the current economic crisis following in the LOVE AND PASSION FOR BIBLE READING? wake of the coronavirus pandemic. This calls for much faith, Firstly, it is important to understand that the Bible is no creativity, and courage – the same qualities that enabled ordinary book. Unless one has been reading the Bible for our forerunners to overcome their some time, it is a mistake to read it GOD’S WORD, WHEN challenges. from beginning to end. In a sense, RECEIVED IN FAITH, it is the only book that should be THE “YEAR OF THE BIBLE” IS A read backward, in that the Old INSPIRES FAITH, HOPE, REMARKABLE THEME. WHAT Testament should be read in the ARE YOUR OBJECTIVES WITH AND LOVE. WE LIVE IN A light of the New, and the entire REGARD TO THE THEME FOR BEAUTIFULLY DIVERSE Bible should be read in the light 2020?

NATION, WITH MANY of the person, teaching and saving Our primary objective is twofold. work of Jesus Christ.

DIFFERENT LANGUAGES Firstly, to get Bibles to people I advocate that one begin with CONTRIBUTING NOT ONLY who need them – to make an the Gospels, and use a reading impact on the current need in TO OUR CONVERSATIONS plan, or something that provides South Africa for some 23 million BUT ALSO TO OUR SOUTH contextual background. Randomly Bibles (according to research we AFRICAN LITANY OF PRAYER selecting verses is not a good idea. did with Ipsos). Bible poverty With these in hand, firstly, look AND PRAISE TO GOD. is also a reality in South Africa. up and ask God to speak to you Secondly, to encourage those who through the passage. Secondly, do have Bibles to read them and look down and read the passage carefully to understand engage more deeply with the Bible’s message of hope, it. Thirdly, look inward and ask yourself how this may forgiveness, redemption, and integrity of life. In 2020, apply to you and your life. Fourthly, look out and ask how as has ever been the case, more love is what we need. this may apply to your life in the context in which you I believe there is also a poverty of spirit that must be live – family, community, etc. – and how you behave in addressed. What guides the choices we make, and the that context. The journey becomes very exciting as God’s way we treat each other?

Word begins to shape and transform your life.

PLEASE SHARE WITH US ABOUT THE 2 MILLION BIBLES PROJECT.

Our aim again is twofold. Firstly, that over two years (2020 and 2021), 2 million South Africans, who otherwise would not have their own Bibles, should each receive a Bible. These people will fall into three main categories –those living in extreme poverty, those in prison as well as Grade 7 learners. Secondly, that 2 million South African children should receive our Biblebased literacy material. These children will be those who

HOW CAN OUR READERS GET INVOLVED WITH INITIATIVES RUN BY THE BIBLE SOCIETY SA? Visit our website at www.biblesociety.co.za to learn more about our projects. For more information, or to support the 2 Million Bibles project, visit www.2millionbibles. co.za. Alternatively, contact your local Bible House, the details of which are on our website. Prayer, partnership in distribution and financial support are all meaningful ways in which your readers could get involved.

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BIBLE GAMES AND APPS It is no secret that technology is here to stay and that the Bible has taken the app world by storm. There are a variety of Bible apps to choose from, below is a few. You are welcome to check out your app store to find an app that suits your needs.

BEST OVERALL BIBLE APP: OLIVE TREE BIBLE

Platform: Android; iOS: iPhone and iPad File Size: 60.4MB Seller: HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. Cost: Free The interactive app enables you to highlight with personalized highlighters, take notes with personalized fonts and varying text sizes, dramatically transform the mood by changing the font and color schemes to the most readable, and even adjust the gestures to make navigating the app so easy with your reading habits in mind.

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BIBLE QUIZ 3D-RELIGIOUS GAME Platform: Android; iOS: iPad and iPhone File Size: 74.2MB Seller: Stojan Pesic Cost: Free; Offers In-App Purchase The Bible Quiz 3D – Religious Game is another surprisingly addictive app that parents and kids will love to play together.

In this adorable app, users compete against other players in cyberspace – which means you must be connected to the Internet. Although this is a negative for this game, especially since poor losers sometimes quit the game before the end and halt the entire game for everyone, it’s almost worth it. Not only will both parents and their children learn plenty from the thoughtful trivia questions, but the Mario Kart style racing elements will also keep you on the edge of your seats and make you ready to try it again.

SCRIPTURE TYPER BIBLE MEMORY

Platform: Android; iOS: iPhone, iPad, iPod touch File Size: 13.9MB Seller: Millennial Apps, LLC Cost: Free If you’ve been meaning to start memorizing Scripture, the Scripture Typer Bible Memorization System is where it’s at. You can type verses out, use flashcards, create drawings, make collections, and set review intervals. You can also sync with your other devices, and on the upgraded version of this amazing app, you can record yourself speaking the verse. Customer reviews say it all; just check out how much the users love this app, and you’ll have every reason to download it then and there.

HELP SHARE THE STORY OF GOD’S AMAZING GRACE The Bible Society of South Africa is celebrating its 200-year anniversary.

We are deeply grateful for the grace and favour the Lord has bestowed upon this organisation whose mission it is to provide affordable Bibles to everyone in the language of their choice.

Thanks to the Bible Society’s work of translating, producing and distributing the Bible, the people of South Africa are able to hear God speak to them in each of the 11 official languages. In celebration of this blessed and momentous milestone, we have set a special goal for ourselves – to provide the people of South Africa with two million Bibles and two million sets of Biblebased literacy booklets.

THE NEED FOR BIBLES Research shows: there is still a need for 23 million Bibles in our country; more than 30 million South Africans live in poverty; and the current employment rate is 23,3%. Our 2 Million Bibles project will see us distribute two million Bibles and two million sets of Biblebased literacy booklets to address both Bible poverty among those who can least afford a Bible as well as illiteracy in our country.

Support this worthy cause and help us to sow hope into our nation. Be a sower of HOPE.

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Andrea Hartzenberg, the owner of The Vanilla Black, gives us some tips on the latest fashion trends.

We’re facing a global pandemic but it’s something we’ve had to learn to live with. Not even a pandemic can stop the flow of fashion though. So Spring/summer 2020 is upon us and as we prepare for the festive season, we start organizing our wardrobes and planning our styles. If you are stuck, we’ve got you covered.

Below is a shortlist of 2020 fashion trends to nudge you in the right direction.

OVERSIZED VICTORIAN SLEEVES

THIS 19TH CENTURY INSPIRED OVERSIZED SHAPE CREATED THE ILLUSION OF A SLIMMER WAIST AND ADDS AN INSTANT FEMININE TOUCH TO YOUR ENSEMBLE OR CHOSEN LOOK FOR THE DAY OR NIGHT.

BAGGY SHORTS Feeling free? Then this is just the look for you.

Baggy shorts are not only comfortable but funky too.

It can be dressed up or down. Pair it with a tank and a pair of heels for a feminine feel or a t-shirt along with combat boots or sneakers and a biker jacket for a more street look and feel. Fancy rocking your baggy shorts to the beach?

Why not? Pair it with your favourite pair of flip flops and you are beach ready!

No-fuss at all.

SHOES WORN OVER PANTS

Any outfit can be dressed up or down depending on your choice of shoes. Wrap strappy heels around the ankle of your Jean or slacks and add an off the shoulder shirt or airy top and your outfit is officially “dressed up”.

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JUMPSUITS AND BOILERSUITS. Take your dress style up a notch by rocking a jumpsuit or Boilersuit. No “outfit stress” here as it is an all in one.

You can mix and match accessories according to your mood. Pair this with a biker jacket and a pair of combat boots and you’re all set for a night out with friends. Pair it with a clutch purse and heels and you’re set for that date. See? No stress here.

CHUNKY BOOTS WITH FEMININE Whether you like bold patterns or bright colours, a maxi dress is an easy way to show off your girly side.

Pair it with combat boots or my personal favourite Dr Marten boots or even the “lookalike” and you’ll be good to go. This is a 90’s inspired look so do not be afraid to be bold.

FASHION

SQUARE-TOED HEELS Need a bit of shade from the sun? This hat has got you covered, literally!

It is cute, trendy and looks great all year round.

The bucket hat is versatile so it can be paired with literally anything.

BUCKETSTYLE BAGS

This originated from Lious Vuitton in 1932 to keep Champagne fresh, now they’re such a vibe. Not only do they offer ample space, they’re are extremely cute and adds character to any outfit.

INSTEAD OF THE ROUND OR POINTY-TOED HEELS. WHY NOT OPT FOR THE SQUARE-TOED HEEL. THIS IS BOUND TO ADD A UNIQUE FLAIR TO YOUR LOOK. ALSO, IF YOU’RE INTO THE “FREE FEET” LOOK AND FEEL, THIS IS IT

Along with fashion trends come colour trends.

However, if you’re like me and not that big on colour, you may opt for just going with your favourite colour instead.

With all that being said.

Trends are cool but at the end of the day, you need to stay true to who you are and embrace your style despite all the trends.

Do not allow society to pressurize you into following the crowd and trends if it simply isn’t your thing.

MAKE A POINT OF BEING YOURSELF, ALWAYS. YOU MIGHT JUST START A TREND.

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WAS CHRIST ACTUALLY IN CHRISTMAS?

By Pastor Chrishando Smith, Yada Ministries Pretoria There is a raging debate, whether you are aware of it or not, regarding Christmas. Not only regarding the name “Xmas” but whether Christmas should be celebrated by Christians altogether. You may be oblivious to the fact but there are vehement opinions in the debate. We don’t have the opportunity to explore all the arguments and details but this is a quick overview of what we need to hold onto and consider.

So, what does the Bible have to say about all of this? The word Christmas is never mentioned in the Bible and we are not called to celebrate our Saviour’s birth inasmuch as we are to celebrate His death.

Under the Old Covenant, various feasts were instituted

by God and celebrated by the people and these were a symbol of things to come. In Hebrews 10:1 (NLT) it says “The old system under the law of Moses was only a shadow, a dim preview of the good things to come, not the good things themselves…” Even the celebrations were a symbol. For example, Passover which was one of the main feasts celebrated, where a lamb was slain and the blood smeared on the doorposts and lintels to protect the Israelite sons from impending death, were a symbol of the blood of Jesus, the Lamb slain for the sins of the world, that covers us and protects us from eternal death.

So, the feast of Passover was then instituted by God and is thus fulfilled in Christ who institutes a new celebration or commemoration and that being the Last Supper. Now in the New Covenant, we see that focus changes: the Passover was celebrated once a year and should be done in a particular manner, but now Jesus says to us to do it in the manner that He did – by taking the bread and drinking of the cup. Where the Passover was only celebrated once a year, Jesus said we can celebrate this “feast” as often as we can.

The two Christ-ordained ordinances established within the church, the New Covenant, are the Last Supper and baptism. The birth of Christ, however, is not mentioned in the same light in scripture but this doesn’t mean it is wrong to celebrate Christ’s birth in the same way many of us celebrate Ascension Day. This leads us to ask the question: When was Christmas first celebrated?

In an old list of Roman bishops, compiled in A.D. 354 these words appear for A.D. 336: “25 Dec.: natus Christus in Betleem Judeae.” December 25th, Christ born in Bethlehem, Judea. This day, December 25, 336, is the 40

first recorded celebration of Christmas. Why did they not celebrate Jesus’ birthday from the start? That boils down to the fact that birthdays were not celebrated for the first three hundred years of the church’s existence. Celebrating birthdays in themselves were often seen as a pagan practice in certain areas.

There is argument around the origin of Christmas and the date on which it is held. Some are of the opinion that it was birthed out of a pagan festival. December 25th was the winter solstice as well as the feast of Sol Invictus, a sacred day in the religion of Mithraism. Mithraism was an Iranian religion centering around the worship of Mithra, the god of war, sun, contract and justice. This is a popular theory as to how that date was selected but there isn’t enough hard evidence that this coincidence influenced Christians.

I am not too concerned around the exact date, but rather that Jesus is celebrated.

My heart regarding the matter is that if you feel there is importance in celebrating Christ’s birth and want to do so, just remember why you are doing what you have decided to do. Romans 14:5 (NIV) “One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.”

What I like about Christmas time is the fact that the world chooses to celebrate Christ and we have an opportunity to make His name renowned. It is an opportunity to have a conversation about Jesus and to bring Him to the fore wherever we go, but we need to use the opportunity presented. Our fault often lies in the fact that we get so caught up in materialism and consumerism that we end up losing sight of what the day should mean and how we can take it as an opportunity to share the Gospel.

If you do choose to celebrate this year, be mindful of how you celebrate and why you do what you do. Christmas has been marred by a wrong focus and caused many debates and arguments among Christians. Many have shifted the focus off Christ’s birth and onto “Father Christmas”, presents, decorating the homes, which has turned into a moneymaking deal, kids have become dictators of what they expect as gifts on Christmas, people have become crazed with living beyond their means during this time. This is what has caused the “Christmas argument” among Christians and this is why many feel that it is no longer a Christian celebration.

So, if you decide to celebrate this year, please ensure you put Christ back in Christmas!

is a boutique-style architectural and interior design studio, providing comprehensive design solutions to residential, commercial and hospitality clients.

WE DREAM WITH YOU At Curate Design Studio, we encourage our clients to be active participants in our design process – it’s important for us to turn YOUR VISION INTO REALITY. Our collaborative approach allows our clients to journey through the process with us every step of the way. Whether your dream is a new build, an addition or a complete remodel; we offer a range of services to suite your budgetary needs.

CONTACT US TO SECURE AN APPOINTMENT +27 79 713 9924 info@curatedesign.co.za www.curatedesign.co.za

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RECONCILIATION DAY

By Magistrate T. Lendore

The Day of Reconciliation is very important in the history of our country; owing to the emotive and turbulent origins of two major historical events.

First, the battle of blood on the banks of the Ncome River on 16 December 1838 between the Voortrekkers and Zulus. The Voortrekkers, who moved inland during the Great Trek to South Africa, were keen to settle down on this land.

The Zulu people already populated the area they chose to settle in. With the advantage of gunpowder, the 470 Voortrekkers, defeated the 10 000 strong Zulu army in battle.

Secondly, on 16 December 1961, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) was formed. This was the military wing of the African National Congress (ANC),

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which was launched to wage an armed struggle against the apartheid government. Before its formation, the ANC had largely approached the fight against apartheid through passive resistance, but after the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, where peaceful protestors were indiscriminately shot by police, such was no longer regarded as a viable means to oppose the regime.

The Day of Reconciliation has been created to mark the end of apartheid. South Africa’s first nonracial and democratic government aimed to symbolically acknowledge the significance of this date. The day, therefore, has been in existence since 1995. The purpose of this day was to foster unity and reconciliation across the country. The reason the date was

selected is due to its significance to both African and Afrikaner cultures and an attempt to find a balance between a division-fraught past and the promotion of national unity, racial harmony, and reconciliation in a new South Africa.

In the Bible, reconciliation involves a change in the relationship between God and man or man and man. It assumes there has been a breakdown in the relationship, but now there has been a change from a state of enmity and fragmentation to one of harmony and fellowship. As we commemorate this day, let us therefore Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 2:13).

ART

ABOUT US FORMED: 2016 in Cape Town, South Africa GENRE: Contemporary Christian Music Contemporary Worship Music STYLES: Alternative Pop/Rock

OUR LATEST TRACK CONSUME is birthed from 1 Kings 18, it’s the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Verse 2 of that chapter starts with “there was a famine in the land”.

Fitting, as many of us are facing a similar season due to the Global Covid-19 Pandemic.

There is famine all around – businesses are shutting down, companies are retrenching, people have lost loved ones. A spirit of fear has been unleashed and it wants to cripple our faith.

In times of drought or famine, we have to be prepared to do the crazy, like wasting water to pour over wood that you are about to burn - in the natural, it does not make sense. God is calling us to do something that costs us when our resources are limited, in spite of our own “personal famines”. God wants to reveal himself through the seemingly impossible, because in so doing, no man, no flesh, none of our own intellect or ability can take credit and no one can deny the power and presence of God.

OTHER TRACKS LOST IN YOU

SHINING

CONNECT WITH US EMAIL: scbandcpt@gmail.com or +27 74 146 3576 FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: @scbandcpt

SECONDARY CITIZENS (or SCBand for short), is a Contemporary Christian rock band hailing from the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, South Africa. The band was founded by Lei Scheffers as early as 2016 already, but was only really established in 2019 with the release of our debut track – Lost in You. The band itself consists of numerous musicians and artist from local churches in and around the Cape Town area.

All our songs are original, authentic, Word-based and birthed out of seasons that we've been through. Our music is raw and honest.

It reflects our heart towards God and His people. We sing what we believe. We believe that our music has the power to inspire and shake things up - not only in people’s hearts, but in the Christian music scene.

The name Secondary Citizens is 2 fold: Firstly, it is based off the scripture in John where it says that we are in this world, not of it.

Secondly, we believe that the purpose for our band is to see to and look after the "Secondary Citizens" of this world, the lost, the broken, those who find themselves on the outskirts of society, the widow, the orphan, the guy sleeping under the bridge, as it is written in James 1:27.

The bible says that we overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word or our testimony, so as a band, we hope that you as the listeners are encouraged through our music to keep pressing on, to keep perusing the face of God in whatever your circumstance may be.

FIND OUR MUSIC (AVAILABLE ON ALL MAJOR ONLINE MUSIC STORES)

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TRAVEL

PRECIOUS

By Claudene Sebolai “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

If there is one thing that lockdown taught us it is the value of living in the moment and enjoying life, making precious memories. One of the greatest gifts that God has given humanity is the beautiful gift of memory. In a sense, memory allows us to relive a moment that was so special to us. The travel ban may have limited our travel experience but it could not prevent us from traveling down memory lane and look back; remembering good times. So fasten your seatbelts and enjoy with us the journey through the travel experiences in our previous issues.

Compelled by love, Josie Martin shares the message of Christ from Heideveld to Brazil. Josie is the epitome of the scripture which states that “what you meant for evil, God turned around for good”. A survivor of childhood trauma, Josie is dedicating her life to make sure no child “would ever go through what I had”. In her own words, Josie encourages those individuals who are interested in missions to not wait. “There is a great need and every helping hand can and will make a difference. If you cannot go, invest your time, money, and recourses. Pray daily for the many missionaries working around the globe. (Read her full story in issue 4).

In issue 7 Chrishando and Judy Smith, a couple who left their tiny footprints across various continents, share their best travel memories and give tips and advice to those whose bucket lists entail travelling. For their travel chats feel free to visit our previous publication.

The Psalmist beautifully reminds us that “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and they that dwell therein. For He hath founded it upon the seas and established it upon the floods” (Psalm 24:1-2). If your “new normal” includes traveling and making new memories, we invite you to page through our previous issues and experience the world imaginatively until you are ready to explore it literally.

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DAYS OF DEVOTION Give thanks for God’s grace in sacred sites across Spain, France and Portugal

FRANCE LOURDES

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2

1 BURGOS

PORTUGAL ◄

BARCELONA

SPAIN 2

1

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• CITY TOUR in Barcelona, Carcassonne, Lourdes, Burgos, Santiago de Compostela a n d Lisb on • VISIT La Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Burgos Cathedral, St. James Cathedral in Santiago, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and the H i e r o ny m i t e s M o n a s t e r y i n L i s b o n

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◄

FÁ TIMA

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• ATTEND MASS in Lourdes, Santiago de Compos tela and Fátima

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SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

CARCASSONNE

ICONIC HIGHLIGHTS

• VIEW the Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona, the medieval city walls of Carcassonne, the Monument to Discoveries and the Belem Tower in Lisbon

LISBON

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

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PEACE GOODWILL ON EARTH!

By Magistrate T. Lendore The Day of Goodwill is also known as “Boxing Day”; this holiday is on the 26th of December. The day has become a day to recover from the indulgence of Christmas festivities. People are also encouraged to give back to society following the Christmas holiday.

After 1994, Boxing Day was renamed to the Day of Goodwill in order to sever ties with South Africa’s colonial past. Boxing Day was traditionally a day off for servants, and the day when they received a special Christmas box from their masters. The servants would also go home on Boxing Day to give Christmas boxes to their families.

Today the day is spent in a leisurely fashion, often outdoors in the summer sunshine with family and friends. Unlike many of South Africa’s other holidays, the Day of Goodwill is a simple holiday for compassion and relaxation.

The day is a day for giving, especially to the less fortunate.

When someone has goodwill toward another person they act in a compassionate and friendly manner. Goodwill is acting out of compassion instead of our selfish human nature. It is also putting the needs of others before ourselves. On the Day of Goodwill, South Africans give to others with an attitude of love and charity.

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SOME WAYS TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS DAY INCLUDE: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Box up everything you do not need and give it away; Make a donation to a charity that helps the poor; Give away leftover food; Host a meal for the poor or homeless; Give back to society by volunteering with a local organization; Think about the word goodwill and how you can apply it to your life.

A HEART ACCORDING TO GOD PASCAL MALONDA

One day, all hearts will be laid bare before God and each and every one will face the mirror of one's soul. On seing the seasons and the events that have punctuated our existence passing before our eyes, a strong conviction will be engraved in us and we will clearly know if we have been or not someone according to the heart of God. If society likes considering people according to their achievements, it i an entirely different matter in the eyes of God, because the greatness of a person is determined by the size of his heart.

Through this new book, the French author brings us to examine the state of our heart, because not only does the success of our life depend on it, but also our final destination. He gives us three pieces of advice that will enable us to ensure we have a heart that pleases God. Follow Pascal Malonda on www.pascalmalonda.com contact@pascalmalonda.com

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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MARRIAGE

TOGETHER SINCE

Celebrating a quartercentury of shining love and commitment to each other, Apostle Vincent and Marilyn Alexander share nuggets of their journey with us.

25 YEARS WITH THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE IS QUITE AN ACHIEVEMENT. HOW AND WHERE DID YOU MEET? We met at a track drive on a Friday night and became friends. Our pastor was very strict so it took us approximately 8 years before we became serious about marriage because we were not allowed to be in a courtship. Well the wait was worth it! 25 Years of wedded bliss and 2 amazing children, and can I add, still in love like the first day we met!

WAS IT LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT OR FIRST FIGHT? Definitely not fight. The peace that we both experienced after meeting was all we needed to know that this was it. “I want to see you again” Those words activated an entire kaleidoscope of butterflies. Well, we cannot articulate that moment in words. It was and still is beyond description. Like the saying goes “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.”

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY AND MINISTRY LIFE? Before we tied the knot the Apostle asked me a question? Are you prepared for ministry life? He was transparent about the implications of ministry on married life. During the first year of our marriage, my husband was called into full-time ministry. He was extremely 48

busy with the work of the Lord and traveled locally and internationally each month. We carried our kids in a cot to crusades. Apart from the busyness, we made it a family tradition to go on retreats yearly, as a way to maintain the balance. Sometimes on his preaching trips, the host would book us as a whole family in a guest house or hotel. This also contributed to quality time with the family. It is extremely important when married and in ministry to be harmonious. Finding balance and maintaining it vital.

EVEN THOUGH THE BALANCE IS THERE, SURELY THERE MUST BE TIMES OF CONTROVERSY. HOW DO YOU RESOLVE MARITAL CONFLICT? When you are young you don’t necessarily have the experience and answers on how to deal with marital conflict. Yes, we differ and get upset at times but through the years we matured, we are now at a point in our journey where we Biblically handle conflict. We close the door and talk through our challenges. FORGIVENESS was always the remedy and glue. We are more relaxed and choose to be happy and have respect for each other’s feelings. We choose to let it work. We trace, face, erase and replace. In the end, it’s about winning together.

UNITY IS VITAL TO A HAPPY AND HEALTHY MARRIAGE. HOW HAVE YOU COME TO THIS POINT OF UNIFICATION?

“MARRIAGE IS A BEAUTIFUL UNION. HAVE A VISION FOR YOUR MARRIAGE. LAY A SOLID FOUNDATION. BUILD DOWN BEFORE YOU BUILD UP.” Ps 133 states it nicely, “where there is unity,there God commands a blessing”. Unity means “the state to being united and joined as a whole”. In marriage, it’s not 50/5o; you either give everything or nothing. And the two shall become one. Things that enhance our unity is that we serve the Lord together, do the Lord’s table together, dine together, drive most of the time together because we enjoy each other. Unity does not mean that we don’t each have our character and personality. We have learned to celebrate each other and base our marriage on the principle of agreement.

MONEY IS OFTEN A MARRIAGE KILLER. HOW SHOULD FINANCES BE HANDLED IN MARRIAGE? Each couple must decide what works for them financially. What works for our marriage does not necessarily work for another marital situation. A vision for a healthy marriage must also include finances. Plan, discuss, save, pray, be honest, be open, and never let money ruin your relationship.

When there is a lack of finances have a “let’s win this together” attitude.

WHAT IS YOUR SECRET TO LONGEVITY IN MARRIAGE? Hard work pays off. We address issues and move on. We assist and help to enhance eath other’s gifts.

The joy of the Lord is our strength so we both add value to each other by submitting to, caring for, communicating with, and love each other completely, without reservations.

ANY WORD OF ADVICE FOR NEWLYWEDS? Marriage is a beautiful union. Have a vision for your marriage. Lay a solid foundation. Build down before you build up. Don’t try to change each other. No marriage is perfect. Don’t compare your marriage with someone else’s marriage. Empower yourself; read books; attend marriage seminars. Your marriage is only as strong as your foundation. Do everything in love, according to 1 Corinthians 16:14. Not forgetting humility: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2. And to wrap it all up; love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8.

THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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WHAT INSPIRED SUCH A POWERFUL VISION? Rays of Hope’s vision is “Partnering with Alexandra to create lasting change.” We do this by running seven programmes focusing on: 1. Orphaned and Vulnerable Children 2. Education 3. Work readiness It is about moving the most vulnerable youths and families in Alex from vulnerability to independence.

Our work was inspired by a word God spoke to a group of young people at a church in Sandton in 1991. The preacher shared the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:2537) as they had never heard before, they came to understand that: a) Jesus’ call to his followers to ‘love their neighbour’ meant for them that they needed to meet the needs of their poor neighbours in Alex, these were people they did not consider as neighbours as they were not part of their ‘tribe’. b) loving their ‘neighbour as much as they love themselves’ means that since they had access to food, shelter, clothing, opportunity and good education, they need to pursue the same things for their neighbours in Alex who were going without. This led to the establishment of a Matric-support group that later became a fullyfledged Saturday School, which 29 years later is still going strong.

The rest flowed from there, and today we have grown to be one of the leading church-based NGOs in South Africa.

HOW HAVE RAYS OF HOPE IMPACTED ALEX THUS FAR? Each year we impact about 2,800 people through our programmes. The most significant impact we have had in Alex has been seeing thousands of young people (over the years) from the most vulnerable backgrounds beginning to believe that despite their backgrounds and environment they have something to offer the 50

RAYS OF HOPE:

CREATING LASTING CHANGE

Sihle Mooi – Executive Director

world and they have permission to dream. They can dream because they will have the opportunities in Alex to develop their talents and skills with the necessary guidance and support to realise those dreams.

Their families are crucial as their primary support system and we have seen hundreds of vulnerable and broken families mended to become greater support to these young people. Vulnerable children and families in Alex now know that they are not alone. Some people will not just feel sorry for them and give them handouts but will believe in them, recognise their worth and are willing to walk with them (partnership), no matter what comes, until they realise their God-given potential.

We have also been blessed to see greater collaboration in the community, we work with over 30 local NGOs and 120 micro- and small businesses to build capacity,

sustainability and to have a greater impact in the community.

I regularly meet business leaders in Alex, leaders of organisations, professionals, artists, media personalities who come up to greet me with gratitude in their eyes to tell me how their time at Rays of Hope ‘made them’ or ‘changed their lives’.

WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR LONGEVITY? Next year we will be celebrating 30 years in Alex! We are often asked ‘how have you kept going in this work for so long where compassion fatigue, burnout and reliable funding are such a challenge?’ Three things have helped us: 1. Conviction about the poor: We believe that the poor are close to God’s heart and that if he has sent us to care and speak for them he will provide the energy, gifts, people and

2.

3.

finances. This keeps us going and at peace when things are tough.

Partnership: This means that you don’t work alone but together with others for the same goal. We nurture an ethos of real partnership with our church, among staff and volunteers, the young people and families that we work with, other organisations in Alex and corporates. This means that we don’t have to do everything ourselves and can rely on others to do their part.

Good Governance: We believe that this is crucial as charities stand and fall on trust and the quality of their reputation. We have a strong board which ensures an ethical culture of transparency, accountability, controls and separation of powers. People need to be confident that there are processes to ensure that funds or goods are handled responsibly and go where they are meant to go. This is important for both donors and beneficiaries.

IS IT WITHIN YOUR PROSPECTS TO EXPAND YOUR WORK BEYOND THE BORDERS OF ALEX? When I visit other townships and rural areas across the country and I meet many young people who are passionate about their communities. Many times, they will ask me to start a Rays of Hope branch in their community. I often challenge them by saying ‘why should we come here and start something when you are here, you understand the needs, know the assets of the community and solutions why don’t you start something and we will support you?’

And their faces light up!

We believe that if we are to see significant changes in communities across our country, it is not the government or the big Corporates or national NGOs that will move the dial, it’s the young people who are inspired and empowered to find solutions for their communities. Many are trying but without our support and the support of the government, corporates and bigger NGO’s they burn out!

That is why we lead a group of about 20 young social entrepreneurs who are doing great things in different townships and rural areas across the country. We mentor, train, and support them. So no, we are not going to expand beyond Alex directly, but choose instead to partner with these other smaller organisations who are making an impact country-wide.

the staff morale high by making sure we touch-base regularly via technology, regular debriefing sessions where we listen, pray for each other and share encouragement from the Word and we are also limiting the number of hours that each staff member spends in contact situations on the ground.

HOW CAN PEOPLE PARTNER WITH RAYS OF HOPE? People can partner by following our work on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram and the website and to pray for us and the community of Alex as families, churches and groups. We would also appreciate being connected to other companies, organisations, and individuals we can partner with.

Financial and in-kind donations are key to continuing the work that we do, and these can be done through our website.

We can issue tax-deduction certificates for all cash donations and help local companies with their BBBEE scorecards.

We also have a presence on GlobalGiving for international donations.

We also have some amazing projects that people can partner with us on, which will make a big difference to Alex youth post-COVID-19. These include building a Community Resource Centre with technology access for young people and the unemployed in Alex and multistakeholder collaboration to connect learners and small businesses across Alex to online resources.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE YOUR DAY-TO-DAY UPKEEP ESPECIALLY IN LIGHT OF THE CURRENT SITUATION? I must admit feeding over 60 000 people in Alex during level 5 lockdown was gruelling for the team! As lockdown has eased we are now providing more holistic services to the community, which still includes food and PPE, mental health and spiritual support services, winter blankets and clothes, screening and referrals and educational support.

We are now trying to do this more sustainably and to keep THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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THE POWER OF PRAYER AND PRAISE:

'In spite of'

By Claudene Sebolai “But at midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. SUDDENLY there was an earthquake so that the foundations of the prison were shaken, and IMMEDIATELY ALL the doors were opened and EVERYONE’s chains were loosed.” (Acts 16:25-26).

It is no secret; the world has been turned upside down by COVID-19. Whereas some have been fortunate to keep their incomes, others had to suffer salary cuts, job losses, death etc. I cannot begin to imagine the fear and anxiety to one day be in control of your life, and the next day, the rug is pulled from underneath you. What would life be like post this pandemic? Can anyone clearly define the “new normal”? How do we navigate these feelings of uncertainty, depression, stress, anger, fear, etc? Although we haven’t stopped believing, we sure have felt the full force of the shaking and sifting accompanied by Corona.

I am reminded of the story of Paul and Silas in Acts 16. On their way to prayer meeting, they ended up in prison. Not to mention the reason for their imprisonment was because they delivered a lady who was not only possessed by a demon but was exploited by business owners to make money for them. This poor woman’s body was used and abused, and it seemed like no one cared about her well-being.

God, through Paul, set this woman free from what was bounding her daily, and as a result, these scrupulous business owners could no longer capitalise through her situation. Talk about bad things happening to good people for no apparent reason.

Paul and Silas’ response to their dilemma is very encouraging. Instead of having a pity party in jail, they decided to have a prayer 52

meeting right there. Beaten up, bound up, and locked up, but that could not stop them from lifting their hearts and voices in prayer and praise to God. They did not allow their problems to have power over their prayer life, but they accessed the power of prayer in their situation. It is Paul who wrote to the Romans, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Rom 8: 18). Also, “in all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Rom 8: 37). Thus, they did not pray and praise for the doors to open and the chains to break. They praised because they were satisfied with God. Imprisoned, yet satisfied! In chains, yet satisfied! Their praise was aimed at God. Consequently, God came into the prison to inhabit their praise. The result of God’s visitation was broken chains and open doors.

This same attitude can be seen in the prophet Habakkuk when he exclaims, “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fails, and the field yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls YET I will rejoice in the Lord, I will take joy in the God of my salvation!” I will pray and praise in spite of affliction! Our prayers and praise should therefore not be aimed at our challenges and problems. Our affection should be directed toward our omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient God. You may have lost a lot during this time; you may feel the full brunt of this pandemic. You may deal with some serious mental health issues. Be assured; you are not alone. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).

Turn your eyes upon Jesus!

Ask for your FREE e-mail copies at radiogoodhope@apl.com

MY

THROUGH COVID

“It’s a cold, emotional and lonely journey”

By Rochelle Walduck

AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR On Monday, 3rd August 2020 I started showing flu-like symptoms.

A few days before that my husband also felt fluish. He is a frontline worker and we knew that he was at great risk of contracting the virus.

We both tested positive and decided to send our kids away so that we could quarantine. This was a lot to process. I remember lying in bed when I received my results, I was freezing. Fear came in my mind.

Death knocked at my heart’s door.

A lot went through my mind. I was scared.

Since I have no comorbidities I always thought that I won’t contract 54

the virus, plus I am my Fathers’ child. Psalm 91 is my portion. Then the symptoms developed. Pressure, flu headaches, chest pains, fever, shortage of breath, tiredness, coughing, and sore throat. This I experienced in the first week of contracting the virus. In the same week, I lost my sense of smell and taste.

THE TRUTH ABOUT ISOLATION Isolation was not easy; I was without my children for three weeks. Although I quarantined with my husband, it was still a cold, emotional, and lonely journey. To witness the other one suffering,

feeling so helpless was the worst.

Our mission was to survive. We took our meds. When the one was weaker the other one would try to help.

There were days I could not get out of bed and nights when I was afraid to go to bed. What if I do not see another day? The shortness of breath and pain in my chest kept me awake many nights.

During the second week, I fell very ill. I was unable to sleep due to tight chest and body aches. One evening at 2:30am I ran out of the room because I could hardly breathe. I ran outside just to see if I can force fresh air down my airways. Nothing! I was rushed to the hospital and after being

admitted I passed out. I can’t remember anything that happened in-between or how long I was there. I remember waking up to the sound of machines and covered with a silver thermostat blanket. I thought I was dead.

The sound of the machines and other COVID patients moaning and groaning of pain is edged into my memory.

The sight of people fighting for their lives was terrifying.

As the hours passed, I started feeling better. I called to God and asked him to breathe into my lungs. I confessed that I will not die but live. I believed that I will be released from the hospital, as a living testimony. As the doctors checked my vitals they said it was stable and that I could be released. I knew right there and then that it was the Lord’s doing!

The support of our family and friends quickened the recovery process. We can only thank God for carrying us through this terrifying situation. It is His grace, His protection, His plan, His purpose, His breath in our lungs.

Victory is found in Him alone! Lance is fully recovered and I am well on my way to full recovery.

Live, love and walk in forgiveness. Death is unpredictable and tomorrow is never promised. Draw closer to God and trust Him!

IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD? I slowly started my recovery process, there were good and bad days. I constantly declared the word of God over myself and my family and refused to allow fear to enter my mind. My experience with COVID-19 was humbling. Most importantly, it brought me closer to God, the one who knows the beginning and the end. The one who is supreme overall. The one who heals and does a complete work.

Death where is your sting? Grave, where is your victory?

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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AFRIKAANS

AS VIR JOU IS...

Geskryf deur Claudene Sebolai Keshia Adams van Worcester deel haar storie van oorwinning oor dwelm verslaafdheid met ons.

“Want Ék weet watter gedagtes Ek aangaande julle koester, spreek die HERE, gedagtes van vrede en nie van onheil nie, om julle ‘n hoopvolle toekoms te gee.” Jeremia 29:11

TOE ALS BEGIN SKEEFLOOP Ek kom uit n goeie ouer huis al was my pa n afwesige pa, my ma het haar rol as beide ouers baie goed behartig.

My ma het in daardie dae n bofriend gehad, en my soms met hom alleen by die huis gelos as sy erens moes gaan. Die boyfriend het dan van die geleentheid gebruik gemaak om vir my sexueel te molesteer. Ek onthou hoe ek as kind gebid het dat die Here nie moet toelaat dat die man my so seer moet maak nie. Die molestasie het aangehou en ek het toe my vertroue in my ma en die Here verloor.

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Op 13 jarige ouderdom was ek verkrag deur n vriend wat baie ouer as ek was. My pleidooi om te stop het op dowe ore geval; hy wou my wys wat ware liefde was. Ek kon myself nie sover bring om my ma te vertel nie en moes self verwerk wat gebeur het. Ek het toe alreeds van 14jaar oud af begin eksperimenteer met ‘ecstacy’ en dagga. In graad 12 raak ek swanger, en op 5 maande verloor ek my seun. Dit was vir my die mees traumatiese ervaring. Ek het besluit om my matriek jaar te voltooi en het baie goed geslaag, ongeag als wat ek deur gemaak het.

KRAG IN GEBED Die donkerste tyd van my lewe was toe ek ingestem het om tik te probeer. Die persoon wat my bekend

gestel het daaraan het my belowe dat my lewe nooit weer dieselfde sou wees nie. Wraggies, my lewe was n letterlike hel na dit. Ongeag hoe ek probeer het om iets te maak van my lewe, dit het afwaards gedraai.

Ek het rehabilitasie op rehabilitasie probeer, selfs al weg gehardloop van n huis van veiligheid. Behalwe dat die dwelms n pyn stiller was, het ek iets gesoek wat niemand en niks my kon aanbied nie. My siel was geknak, ek was stukkend; ek het my ma verwyt en gehaat vir als wat met my gebeur het. Deur my rebelsheid wou ek he sy moes als voel wat ek voel, ek het haar pyn veroorsaak omdat ek self nie die pyn kon hanteer waarmee ek moes saam leef nie. Todat ek haar eendag hoor bid het; “Here, hoe lank

nog?” Ek het toe besef dat ek drastiese veranderinge sal moet maak met my lewe.

N UITVERKORE SIEL Op 24 Junie 2014, terwyl ek 3 maande swanger was, hoor ek vanuit my kamer hoe die Woord van die Here gepreek word. En die prediker se hierdie woorde “Jongdogter, jy wat nou na hierdie preek luister, vandag gaan jou verlossing gekom!” Ek het daar en dan n ontmoeting met die Here gehad wat my lewe radikaal verander het. As ek nou trug kyk dan kan ek sien hoe die Here my altyd bewaar het, en dat Hy weet watter planne Hy koester aangaande my lewe. Ek werk tans by n rehabilitasie sentrum genoem Toevlug en is ook betrokke met n uitruikings program Road to Recovery. Ek help ook graag uit by die trauma eenheid van die polisie stasie. Ek mag miskien nog nie is waar ek wil wees nie, maar ek dank God dat ek nie meer is waar ek was nie.

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57

PARENTING

BEAUTY IN THE BLEND:

Better Together Blended families are not for the faint-hearted, it presents each couple with unique challenges. Sherna Abrahams shares her amazing journey of beauty in the blend.

We each had a child from our previous relationship.

We got married to a 3 and 4-year-old. Our kids got along fine, in fact, they were like twins.

We always celebrated their birthdays together, presented them with their gifts together (which were always the same or similar). We had amazing family holidays together and the “siblings” would have the normal sibling rivalry with their little brother who was born in the second year of our marriage.

Our family unit started getting a flow only in the 7th year of our marriage.

By then we had gotten over most of our initial struggles. We made it to the point where we stopped having fights or disagreements in front of the kids. This was one of the biggest achievements in our aim to become one. The kids were growing up and becoming teenagers.

At this stage, the kids were facing the normal 58

stages of transition to teens. The challenges were different. I had to know my place with our daughter as I understood that her mom played a big role in her life. I made sure I did not overstep boundaries in this area. We had some light girl talk but nothing too deep. I think by doing this it assured her that I never wanted to take her mom’s place. Our son on the other hand felt more comfortable with my husband and could easily talk to him about boy things. They had a very good father-son bond and we were pleased that we had achieved this. Our struggle at this time was with our son’s dad who still caused some issues between our son and us from time to time. We maintained our stance on not badmouthing the other parents. This is one of the most important things to remember as a step-parent or in a blended family.

The kids are now 19, 18, and 12 and we can honestly say that we have achieved success as a blended family. A while ago I asked our son if he ever felt that any of my husband’s actions ever made him feel like a stepchild and he said no.

Our daughter wished me for my birthday last year and she said to me she can never say I loved her less. This was rewarding.

My advice to blended families is to always respect the other parent despite the difficulty, challenges, and differences in parenting styles. Always have a listening ear for the children. Understand that each child is different and needs to be understood at their levels individually.

Always be open to your husband or wife when they have concerns or trouble in the area of step-parenting. Being a blended family can be extremely rewarding when we understand that the challenges can

BEING A BLENDED FAMILY CAN BE EXTREMELY REWARDING WHEN WE UNDERSTAND THAT THE CHALLENGES CAN BE OVERCOME

be overcome. It may take a few years to find your rhythm and special flow as a blended family but it is very possible to do so by the grace of God. We would not have made it this far had we not been able to pray and trust God on this journey. We are blessed to be able to say we are still standing.

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CELEBRATING SINGLES

PURPOSEFULLY SINGLE:

UNTIL I’M READY TO COMMINGLE By: Anneen Jansen When I was a child I thought that this is how life works: you grow up and meet Mr right, fall in love, get married, and have children.

“Are you still single?” or “Why are you not in a relationship?” Who will deliver me from these constant interrogating questions? To be honest, I kinda feel content with being single. However, sometimes I feel like there is something wrong with me especially when I indulge in society’s views that I need to be married at a certain age.

I grew up without a father so certain values about fatherhood have not been imprinted in my life and because of that I had a lot of voids that I needed to deal with. Even though I have had boyfriends I still felt single in the relationships. I would look at people getting married and think they are more blessed than I am. They say there is always that one that has more similarities or trademarks to a certain parent than the others.

The fact that my mother never got married made me feel and think that I might just travel the same road as her.

WHERE IS MY ADAM OR BOAZ? I have given up on the idea of a man riding on a white horse to come and rescue me. Although I am not sure there is anything that I need saving from. Singleness ain’t a sickness that the man has the cure for. People have made jokes, saying that my Adam is still fast asleep and that I need to go wake him up.

FEELINGS OF LONELINESS Gen 2: 18 The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

For us to be alone was never God’s intention.

So I do believe that it’s not only certain people that have the right to be married and some to be unmarried. I think it’s a decision one makes: Do I want to be married or not? The choice is yours, you will eventually know when you are ready to embark on that endeavour.

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THE YEARNING TO BELONG TO SOMEONE Valentine’s day, birthdays, and holidays (especially Valentine’s and festive season) are the worst days in a single person’s life. These are the days that single people feel extra single!

The way we were socialized made us believe that the only way we can find and experience love is through an earthly bond, meaning that only an individual can show and give us love. Yet God is love and He wants to tell and show us how much he loves us and that He will never leave nor forsake us.

DOES MY WORTH INCREASE WHEN IN A RELATIONSHIP OR MARRIAGE? This had me in my feelings. I thought that my worth is measured by being in a relationship. I’ve had this fantasy in my head of being scooped off my feet, and have this wonderful relationship that we regularly see in the movies. Now I don’t feel the urge of being scooped away by someone because I am learning how to love myself before I can love and be loved by anyone else.

I’ve learned that being single is a blessing. I am completely open to the idea of finding the “love of my life”, the man who calls me “bae”, getting married and going on “bae-cations” etc. It’s easy to grow weary in the wait and start thinking that God has forgotten about your heart’s desire. However, I’m patient and pursuing my purpose and growing in my faith.

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TESTIMONY

BEAUTY FOR ASHES…

Literally!

By Ryan Minords On the day that the whole world celebrates love; as a family, all we loved and held dear to us went up in flames. On Valentine’s Day 2019, we stood by watching our home burn down to the ground, nothing could be salvaged.

My cousin and her estranged husband, who lived on the same premises, had an altercation on this day. This was the norm for them and we did not anticipate things to go the way it did on that fateful day. The intervention was always unwanted, blocked, and rejected by her bruised and sometimes bloodied face. Things got really out of hand to the point where he siphoned petrol from his bakkie doused the furniture in the cabin, lit it, took his TV, and locked the door. The cottage was adjacent to my parents’ living quarters and the fire would licked its way onto their property.

A ball of the darkest smoke I had ever seen started pouring through the joints of the wooden cabin all I could manage to utter was, “Mom! He lit the place on fire!” In utter disbelief, my younger brother and a few neighbors rushed over to try and kick down the door to put out the flames. Unfortunately, the vacuum created by the open door fanned the flames. Onlookers from far and wide came to witness with us, while everything went up in smoke.

They were not there to lend a hand or help salvage what could be salvaged, instead they were there to scavenge and pick through our remains. Adding insult to injury!

It felt like the two-hour event lasted a lifetime. The arsonist, high and boastful came back to the scene and received a bit of mob justice on his way out.

His then-wife defending him removed his shoes as the police officials took him away. The fire brigade stayed a block away until the dust settled. I had thoughts that maybe if they had reacted quicker we could have saved something. However, a complete sacrifice was needed for restoration to take place.

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My father came home from a day of hard labor with a few items bought on his way. A soft drink under his arm brought to a place he once called home, now ash and debris, I cannot begin to imagine what his heart felt or what thoughts went through his mind at that stage. Tired and grief-stricken, an image edged deep into my memory.

My parents and brother lodged in the main house sharing a room throughout winter. I slept in my car through one of the coldest winters I’ve ever experienced. The following days and nights were the hardest but the lessons learned were priceless.

The Saturday following these events, my dad came home from his taxi duties, salary in hand and my parents gave thanks to God in prayer on the ruins, in the area that once was their living room. I don’t remember exactly what was said in the prayer but the restoration is proof of their faith.

I saw Job 2:8-10 in real life; I know what it is to have everything and the next day have nothing. Friends from far and wide would call or text uttering these infamous words, “I’m sorry to hear what happened if you need me just let me know.” These words to me were like steam from a boiling kettle, gone in a second. The deed of love is an action performed intentionally or consciously. I only have these clothes left on my back. I do not need your pity. I need tangible love support.

There was nothing that anyone could have done to put a halt to the marching wall of flame which devoured so much of the house in which I grew up.

But right now, with my Bible open beside me and my thoughts on the things of God, I am not bitter nor do I feel overwhelmed by the loss behind me or the task ahead. Rather, I hope and pray that in all of this God’s will might be done and I look forward to the chance to one day look back on these days and see what God’s plan was all along. I believe in beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3).

PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC DESIGN WRITING

fiona.milligan@gmail.com

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP AND CONNECTIONS Everyday thousands of people are being saved in Africa One of the reasons Brother Kenneth and Sister Gloria Copeland have seen the results they have in their lives and ministry is because when they realized what the Word of God would do, they immersed themselves in it. They turned off the radio and television, put down the newspaper, and spent nearly every waking moment either reading the Word, listening to tapes on the Word, talking about the Word, thinking about the Word and eventually this had a powerful effect on them. It began to revolutionize everything about their life and their ministry. And it began to turn failure into success, that is what the Word can do for every person who is serious about living a life surrendered to God. In consistency lies the power.

Kenneth Copeland Ministries has been in Africa for almost 40 years helping people grow in their walk with the Lord. God called Brother Copeland to take the Word of God from the top of the world to the bottom and all the way around the middle. And with the help of our Partners and Friends across Africa, we are getting it done!

Over these years both the continent and our ministry have undergone many changes, and God receives all the glory. His faithfulness has made all the difference in many nations of Africa and KCM’s ministry to thousands upon thousands of people in those nations.

In July 2009, Christine Blumstein stepped into the leadership position as Managing Director of KCM Africa with her feet firmly planted in the foundational mission of KCM and with these words from the Lord ringing in 64

her ears: Teach My people that My Word works. All they have to do is always walk by faith in love, not just some of the time.

“The past 10 years I have learned to take Him at His Word, and He has come through not just once, but every time. It has been the greatest years in the history of KCM Africa, as we basked in the Father’s amazing Great Grace upon this office and our lives. We rejoice because we see lives changed, and more souls coming into the kingdom of God. As we sow, we have received more finances to get the work completed. The fact that we cannot out-give God is such a reality to us as a staff we soon realized we are no longer simply surviving—we are thriving!”

“Monthly we as the African Office sow 20% or more of our income into other ministries. I must make mention, that most people believe that we receive financial support from the States, not so. Brother Copeland believes that we have all been given the same measure of faith. We are grateful for our local Partners; I believe that we have the best Partners and together we are making a difference in AFRICA!”

CONNECTING WITH THE PEOPLE Through the dedication of anointed staff members, KCM Africa has reached goal after goal in connecting with the people of sub-Saharan Africa and ministering the good news of Jesus to the people of the region.

These faithful staff members are humbled and thankful for all the Lord has accomplished through them.

“For us and all of KCM, we have found that technology, especially

social media, is an amazing tool at our disposal to reach the world and teach them that Jesus is Lord.” On our website kcm.org.za, the Victory broadcast page and the Victory magazine are the most visited.

VICTORY TV and Radio reach hundreds of thousands of viewers and listeners all across Africa through many partner television and radio stations.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed our everyday reality of how we do things across all aspects of our lives.

Governments across the world have had to implement movement restricting measures in response to this pandemic. This has had the effect of shifting our everyday reality; how we communicate, relate to each other, and do business has been considerably altered. We have not been immune to these shifting realities. We as a ministry are faced with the new reality of intensifying the use of technology to reach and communicate with our Partners and Friends while obeying various restrictive lockdown measures.

These digitals innovations have been a blessing to us, we are considered a media ministry, therefore we were only inconvenienced for a week since the start of the lockdown time whilst we were busy setting up staff at their various homes. Must admit that we miss personal interaction with our Partners, during these times when social distancing is a priority, but this too shall pass.

For nearly 40 years, with integrity based on the Word of God, Kenneth and Gloria have ministered to their Partners and Friends who make their home in Sub-Sahara Africa. The response to our message and ministry

REV. CHRISTINE BLUMSTEIN MANAGING DIRECTOR AT KENNETH COPELAND MINISTRIES AFRICA

is growing daily and people’s lives are being changed by the power of the preaching of the uncompromised Word of God.

CONNECTING WITH PASTORS AND PARTNER MINISTRIES God is raising pastors in every nation of Africa to bring His children to maturity in their faith. In 2009, KCM Africa launched Pastor Connect—a pastoral ministry we knew would make a difference in the lives of so many people who are being added to the Church every day.

Pastor Connect has grown from 205 Partner pastors in 2009 to 1,080 currently. They receive encouragement from guest speakers, board members and other Partners.

This is the kind of partnership they need to lead their people into victorious lives in Christ Jesus.

The meetings have been held in Johannesburg, South Africa, and, because we have received so many requests from other locations, we are now making plans to meet with them in five other provinces.

Just like we do with all our KCM worldwide ministry outlets, we have partnered with other ministries in Africa to join our anointings to help people of the African nations increase in their place in the family of God. Every day we receive testimonies of how God is advancing His kingdom in Africa through the connections of His

THE KENNETH COPELAND MINISTRIES AFRICAN OFFICE BASED IN SOUTH AFRICA IS A LONG WAY FROM EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE IN FORT WORTH, TEXAS, AND YET THE AUTHORITY AND MINISTRY OF GOD’S SERVANTS—THE PROPHETIC AND APOSTOLIC MINISTRY OF KENNETH AND GLORIA COPELAND—ARE ALIVE AND WELL IN OUR PART OF THE WORLD”.

people!

The growing Body of Christ in Africa will require the equipping of strong church leaders. Through pastoral connections and our partnership with other evangelistic ministries, KCM Africa is doing what the Lord has called us to do to grow the Church— taking believers from the milk of the Word to the meat of the Word, and from religion to reality. “I desire above all that Africa’s Partners and Friends know the heart of the staff that serves them from the KCM ministry office in South Africa,” she says. “I have found myself meditating constantly on David’s words in recent weeks. They have become a prayer that my heart echoes.”

“When all is shifting and shaking, lead me to the Rock. Let me find stability in You, Lord.

When my mind is foggy and my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the One who is higher—to the One who sits enthroned above it all. Let me find solace and wisdom in You, Lord.

When it feels like the enemy is winning, lead me to the strong tower. Let me find refuge and victory in You, Lord.”

“I am daily reminded that this world does not have the answers that are needed for these times—but God does. Nothing about this time and season has caught Him off guard or taken Him by surprise. We can trust Him. He alone has the answers we need. He alone can provide the stability we long for and the grace we require. But it takes intentionality on our part.”

Love rules supreme in the AFRICAN office and prayer is the foundation of our everyday success. You are covered by our prayers, as we begin every day lifting you to the Lord. Love is our driving force when we pray for you because we believe that love changes everything! Our hearts rejoice with you when we hear about your breakthroughs, when we hear how God has come through and how you were not moved no matter what the world brought your way. The love of Christ compels us to do what we do.

From our hearts, we join Kenneth and Gloria Copeland and KCM worldwide, when we say God loves you, we love you and JESUS IS LORD! VICTORY THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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KIDS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD

By Claudene Sebolai “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb, a reward” (Psalm 127:3) According to an article published in the Sunday Independent news, recent stats show that a child goes missing in South Africa every five hours. What a scary reality. Six days after the publication of this article, video footage emerged on social media showing a man jumping over a low fence at a dinner in Johannesburg, where two women and a four-year-old girl sat at the table. As the man rushed toward the girl, another patron was seen rising from where he was seated and lunging at the man, tackling him to the ground. The women were able to cut the little girl out of the attacker’s grasp and carry her away. The 24-year-old suspect has since been arrested for the incident. He was charged with assault as the young girl was injured during the ordeal.

This is the context within which children are raised today. Our children may never have the privilege we had growing up, playing outside 68

from dusk to dawn, and creating beautiful memories that can be passed down generations. Growing up, we did not have much and weren’t technologically inclined, such as our children are today, but we had one thing that can never be taken from us. A community of parents offered support for each other. In those days, the village indeed raised the child. Family life has changed immensely since then, and today many are parenting without family or even friends nearby.

The African Proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” suggests that parenting is a shared responsibility, a communal affair. Sadly even this sense of community has been taken from us.

It is not as if there aren’t any neighbours or family members that can help, but parents are too scared to trust their children with anyone. Rightly so, since, in most cases, the perpetrators of child molestation, rape, and murder are close family and friends.

As we have recently celebrated Heritage Day and went out of our way to make it a memorable occasion, so too must we start celebrating our dear children who are a heritage from the Lord. Through

Jesus, we can see that God has a soft spot for children. He is gentle and kind to them and passionate about protecting them from harm. Jesus issued a stern warning when He said, “And whoever receives one little child like this in my name receives Me. If anyone causes one of these little ones – who believe in me – to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea” (Matt. 18:6).

Prayer of protection for our children Father, we thank you for our precious children who are a heritage from you, a blessing and a reward. Protect our dear children physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Watch over our children in every area of their life and keep harm far away from them. Protect them from violence, paedophiles, kidnappers, and accidents. Walk with them Father, and never leave their sides. Our children are the future leaders of our nation. Be our child’s refuge and fortress, the One in whom they can and should put their trust.

Thank you for Your hand of protection and Your blessing over our kids, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

TCLM 3RD BIRTHDAY WISHES

LOOK WHO’S 3

A whopping birthday blessing to you. I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in good health even as your soul prospers (3 John 1:2). You are like a tree planted by rivers of water, your leaves shall not wither (Psalm 1:3). Keep Flourishing!

From: Priviledge M Mahoya (Lenasia, Gauteng)

How great is our God! A very happy birthday TCLM From: Portia Manuel (CPT)

Father we glory in Your grace! We honor You for Your faithfulness through it all!

From: Kyle Johnson (CPT)

May the Lord enlarge its territory and increase its sphere of influence. From glory to glory and grace to grace.

From: Claudene Sebolai (Managing Editor)

BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO RENETTE VENTER FROM BRAKPAN, GAUTENG WHO WON A CHRISTIAN T-SHIRT FROM BOLD BEREANS AND A COMPLIMENTARY CASH PRICE WORTH R1 000.00, FROM THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE.

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YOUTH

By Dominique Adonis I consider myself blessed to be able to live out my calling which is to love God and love people. I do this through “being” and “entering in”. Being a wife, being a mother, leader, pastor, business woman, friend. And so on. And yet all these roles are not my identity. My identity is wrapped up in this one fact, that I am a child of God. Ubuntu says, “I am because we are.” And doesn’t this give us a glimpse into God’s framework for society? To be all that He has called us to be within the context community.

I’m in your reading space today to encourage and challenge you, especially for where we find ourselves not only as individuals but as a community, nation, and especially a generation. Who we are in this moment matters! To us and everyone, we’re connected to, because everything we do flows from who we

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are, not who we feel we are, or who others have labelled us to be. But who God has called us to be, as individuals and collectively. If we are going to make any change in the generation we’re living in, it may start with one, but it will take all of us.

This crisis has been an eye-opener to the disparity in our nation and the real pandemic we have to face. The introduction of masks, hand sanitizers, and social distancing is child’s play compared to the in-house pandemic South Africa faces. If only we would shut down the economy, put measures in place, and aggressively deal with the blatant slaughter of women, men and children with GBV, poverty, corruption and moral decay. And to add insult to injury, there are people in our world who advocate that pedophilia be classified as a sexual orientation. Our

world is broken. And yet this is the very reason why Jesus entered in.

How do we navigate these challenges, especially as young people?

It has been said of this generation that we are the “fatherless generation” and I want to disagree. Yes, fatherlessness is a real problem in our generation, however I believe this generation has a Father, and they just haven’t met Him yet. But what about you and I who are children of God? What should our response be to all of this be? We have a role to play.

Critique Magazine posted an article “Because Father’s Matter” and stated, “We can hardly expect postmoderns to take seriously our good news that God can be their Father if we are unwilling to enter their fatherlessness with the same intimacy with which Christ entered our world.”

With the end of 2020 in sight, instead of getting caught up in the frenzy, I want to encourage you to “enter into” the brokenness of others like Christ entered the world. Here are a few things we must consider when entering in (Phil. 2:6-11). Firstly let’s drop the sense of entitlement. The world, this life, and no one owe us anything. Like Jesus, although He was fully God, He did not use His divinity as an advantage instead He made himself nothing taking on the nature of a servant. Our strength is not for views, likes, or followers, our strength is for service. Let’s enter in ready

N O S S E L E L BIB I AM CHRIST’S

UBUNTU SAYS, “I AM BECAUSE WE ARE.” AND DOESN’T THIS GIVE US A GLIMPSE INTO GOD’S FRAMEWORK FOR SOCIETY? TO BE ALL THAT HE HAS CALLED US TO BE WITHIN THE CONTEXT COMMUNITY.

Did you ever realize that Batman had no super power?! He was an ordinary man that dressed up in a special suit and had some really cool gadgets; he had the Batmobile, but he did not have a super power! He couldn’t fly, climb high buildings or have super strength. What he did have though…was a helper, a friend that came alongside him – Robin.

In the Old Testament there is a man you may have heard of – Moses. We know God used Moses in an incredible way to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.

Moses wasn’t anyone super or special; he was ordinary. In fact, many people think he may have stuttered! How was God going to use him when he had a problem talking?!

to serve. Secondly, let’s normalize humility. It is counter-cultural, but it’s a kingdom protocol. In the Kingdom of God, down means up. Not a very popular teaching but as young people, it is a game-changer. When we humble ourselves, God will elevate us for His purpose and glory. And lastly, use your platform to reflect your Heavenly Father. What was Jesus’ purpose for being born in a manger? To reflect the Father and point others to Him. What is your platform? Use it to be a reflection and representation of God our Father, not just for this season but let it be the mission of your life. So come, let us enter into our world as Jesus did, and let’s find others who are doing the same. Let us be a reflection of the Father (Heb. 1: 3) and the manifestation of His word (Jn. 1: 14) wherever we find ourselves.

LOOK IT UP: Turn to the second book in your Bible and read Exodus 4:10-15.

When Moses tells God that he can’t talk well, did God give up on him? (No!) Did God fix Moses?

(No!) What did God do? Yes, God gave Moses a helper, someone to go with him, his brother, Aaron!

Batman had Robin; Moses had Aaron…and did you notice God said He would be with them too?!

You may feel like you’re just an ordinary kid with nothing special about you, but you are WRONG! God loves to choose ordinary kids just like you to do super-great, incredible things! We don’t need super human power when we have Jesus with us! When we belong to Christ, we also belong in God’s family! When we are Christ’s, we will never be alone again!

S

THINK ABOUT: Think about some of the people God has placed in your life to help you – maybe your parents, an older brother or sister, a teacher or friend. Now think about who are you being a helper or friend to?

REMEMBER: When we have Jesus, He promises to stay with us!

We are NOT alone!

PRAY: Thank God for making you just the way you are! Thank Him for giving you friends & family, but most of all for Jesus Who promises to always be with you!

For more of these lessons go to https://www.creativebiblestudy. com/kids-Bible-lessons-heroes.html

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YOUTH

THERE’S NO FORCE EQUAL TO A YOUNG WOMAN DETERMINED

“GOD KEPT ME GOING AND GAVE ME CRAZY FAITH!”

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My Name is Siobhan Bronwyn Koopman I am a child of God a wife and a mom of two beautiful little boys aged 4 and 2 I hold a degree in BCom Marketing that I obtained at Boston City Campus I work for an engineering company in the south of Johannesburg where my role is as a Sales Administrator. I am also the founder and owner of Siobhan K Media a Web design and Social Media Marking company that caters to help medium to small businesses build their brand.

My journey started In grade 11. I worked at Standard Bank in their creative department as part of a school project. When I finished school, I applied to study theology however my application was rejected as my marks were not all that good. Nevertheless, I decided to study HR. I did not find it interesting and dropped out. I started working, still unsure about what I wanted to study. I have changed my mind so many times that I ended up choosing Marketing as a last resort; not something I imagined I would venture in to.

I worked and studied part time and gave birth to my first son three months after I got engaged. Not even two years later I gave birth to my second son. I remember being in labor trying to complete my assignments. As soon as my baby was born I had my books scattered all over the hospital bed trying to complete my school work. Six weeks postpartum I started my first job.

It took me six years to complete my degree. I remember going and pitching my crazy outrageous ideas to one of my marketing managers

and he looked at me and said, “no it’s fine we don’t need that right now”. The utter disappointment I felt at that moment. I was turned down many times but that did not stop me from pursuing my dreams. God kept me going and gave me crazy faith! I approached my manager, unapologetically and said to him “thanks for your time but I want you to know that no matter how many times you turn me down, every time I have a crazy Idea I’m going to pitch it to you.”

The rejection led me to create my own experience. My sons started school and I noticed that they did not have a digital footprint. I approached the principal and asked her if I can do her marketing for her response was “can you create a website?” At the time I had no idea how to do it but I said yes. I started researching how to create a website and I was able to pull it off.

They loved the site I created which opened the door to more clients who offered to pay for my services.

As a child, I always had crazy ideas and made impossible things work well together. I remember cutting up my dad’s socks to design beautiful jackets for my doll.

As a business owner I don’t work I live on purpose. I do what I love and I love what I do! I can only thank God for giving me a crazy, innovative mind that I can use responsibly as a young woman.

God has given me the gift to see the treasure in a start-up. I truly believe in the power of discovering your purpose and manifesting your potential. God’s plans for us is to prosper us and not to harm us (Jeremiah 20:11).

PRAYER OF SALVATION Father God I come to you broken, lost and a sinner. There is nothing I can do to save myself from sin or judgement to come, I need You Lord. Thank You Jesus for what You did on the cross of calvary for the world and especially for me. Thank You that You died and took my place. Father, I ask that You apply the blood of Jesus to my life, wash me with Your Word and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Today I accept Your free gift of salvation and ask that You make me your child. I understand that becoming Your child is not based on what I’ve done or who I am but based on who You are and what You have done for me. I accept Your love, sacrifice, forgiveness and healing.

Come take Your place on the throne of my heart and fill me, mark me for eternity. Transform me into the likeness of Christ Jesus my Lord. Sustain me with Your power and grace and enable me to walk in Your ways all the days of my life. I lay down my old life and I take up Your new life. I am now a new creation, a child of the most High God. I give You my heart dear Lord, I commit my life to You, empower me to be and do all you have ordained for me. Amen

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HEALTH

TOWARDS HOLISTIC HEALTH AND WELLNESS

with Claudia Van Schalkwyk

WHO IS CLAUDIA AND WHAT INSPIRED HER TO FOCUS ON BEAUTY, FITNESS, AND WELLNESS? I am a child of God, wife to Emile Van Schalkwyk and mother of two amazing children. I am the owner of Urban Beauty Academy in Kuilsriver and recently started a new NPO that transforms the lives of men and women around SA. I always wanted to be a beauty therapist and never desired to be anything else. My mom took special care of herself and that inspired me to practise self-care and make it a career. Fitness became part of 74

my lifestyle from a very young age, however, my wellness journey started in 2015 when my late sister Leony was diagnosed with Lymphoma cancer stage 4. During her diagnoses, I felt the desperate need to research this disease. I have found that holistic health and wellness as a lifestyle can reduce the risk of chronic disease. A few weeks after Leony lost the fight against cancer I decided to develop a wellness programme called the UBA90daywellness challenge. My inspiration for wellness, therefore, came from tragedy.

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR UBA & UB90 BRAINCHILDREN.

UBA is my 1st passion. I started the academy to help previously disadvantage young women to pursue their careers in beauty. UBA supported over 100 ladies to become qualified beauty therapists who are now self-employed or running very successful businesses.

UBA90day wellness challenge is a holistic wellness programme developed to support men and women to become the healthiest, most holistic version of themselves.

My team and I are ready to support and guide each individual who wants to transform through dietary, fitness and mental shifts.

WHICH COACHING TECHNIQUES DO YOU USE TO HELP YOUR MEMBERS MAKE HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE CHANGES? One cannot build a strong physical healthy body without practising mental and psychological self-care.

That means you can never outtrain a poor diet. Healthy living and sustainable results, in my opinion, is when you start by renewing the mind. We focus on tools and methods to assist our members to understand that they are in control of every decision. This programme is NOT a DIET therefore if they successfully renew their minds they will be able to develop healthy habits.

THE FESTIVE SEASON IS AROUND THE CORNER, AND THAT IS THE TIME WHEN PEOPLE USUALLY FALL OFF THE WAGON. IS THAT SO FOR YOUR CLIENTS? IF NOT, HOW DO YOU KEEP THEM MOTIVATED?

much on healthy food. Is that true?

A healthy lifestyle is expensive initially when you are in your transitioning phase, but soon you will realise that your environment will start changing. You will spend more quality time than quantity of time over weekends. This will add more value to your life. I always ask the question what is your life worth to you?

I LOVE HOW YOU KEEP GOD AT THE CENTRE OF EVERYTHING. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SCRIPTURE THAT KEEPS YOU GOING AND WHY? Matthew 6:33 Seek ye 1st the kingdom of God and His righteousness, is my absolute favourite. If I put God in the centre of my finances, marriage, business and wellness I will be successful.

START BY ELIMINATING PROCESSED FOODS AND MAKE TIME FOR GOD IN THE MORNINGS. HE WILL DIRECT YOUR PATH AND HE WILL GUIDE YOU TO THE CORRECT PROGRAMME.

Ahhaa! I get this question all the time. How do we stay motivated?

It is really easy when you start understanding how the body works.

You become fully embodied and content with your lifestyle. Seasons can come; nothing will stray you away from your LIFESTYLE. It is my 6th year celebrating a Christmas without all the animals on the table and I LOVE IT! I fear nothing and MISS nothing.

WHAT CHANGES CAN PEOPLE MAKE IN THEIR DAILY LIVES, WHO WANT TO PURSUE A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE? They can start right where they are. One day at a time. Start by eliminating processed foods and make time for God in the mornings.

He will direct your path and He will guide you to the correct programme.

The dominant perception is that it is extremely expensive to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You spend twice as THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE

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MOVIES

FAITH-BASED FILMS TO INSPIRE MOVIES TO WATCH THIS FESTIVE SEASON

BREAKTHROUGH

“For to us a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end.”

The Nativity Story is a 2006 American biblical drama film based on the nativity of Jesus, directed by Catherine Hardwicke and starring Keisha Castle-Hughes and Oscar Isaac. A family movie to watch after Christmas lunch as a reminder that Christ is the reason for the Christmas season.

THE NATIVITY STORY

“Sometimes it takes an overwhelming breakdown to have an undeniable breakthrough” Breakthrough is a 2019 American Christian drama film directed by Roxann Dawson in her film directorial debut. The film tells the story of a St. Louis teenager who slipped through an icy lake in January 2015 and was underwater for 15 minutes before resuscitative efforts were started. Although being rescued, he is in a coma, and his family must rely on their faith to get through the ordeal. Is anything too hard for God? This movie will strengthen your faith in God during these tough times as you watch the stubborn faith of a mom in the face of a seemingly impossible situation.

I STILL BELIEVE “I’ve learned that suffering doesn’t destroy faith, it refines it” I Still Believe is a 2020 American Christian romantic drama film.

It is the true-life story of Christian music star Jeremy Camp and his remarkable journey of love and loss that proves there is always hope in midst of tragedy and that faith tested is the only faith worth sharing. I still believe, is a powerful reminder that in life’s storms, true hope can be found because God is available to us, which is especially important in our suffering.

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THE SAME KIND OF DIFFERENT AS ME “Our limitation is God’s opportunity. When you get all the way to the end of your rope and there ain’t nothing you can do, that’s when God takes over.”

The same kind of different as me is based on the inspiring true story of international art dealer Ron Hall (Greg Kinnear), who befriends a homeless man (Djimon Hounsou) in hopes of saving his struggling marriage to Debbie (Renée Zellweger), a woman whose dreams will lead all three of them on the most remarkable journey of their lives.

Jon Voight plays Hall’s father, with whom he reconciles thanks to the revelations of his new life.

Based on the New York Times bestseller. This story reminds us that no matter how deep the differences that separate us, just a bit of love and compassion may help us to see others’dignity

We are a thriving young independent school in Pinelands with small classes, a Christian ethos and a rich and stimulating literaturebased curriculum.

We have continued providing this wholesome education with personal support and oversight of the children throughout the turbulent months of Lockdown, but are thrilled to now have all our children back at school for Term Four.

We are looking for parents who are committed to the vigorous but balanced growth of their children as whole people.

“Of all the joyous motives of school life, the love of knowledge is the only abiding one; the only one which determines the scale, so to speak, upon which the person will hereafter live.“ Charlotte Mason

For more information, please visit our website or contact the school to arrange an appointment to meet with the Principal and see the school in action.

021 532 1816 or admin@graceprimary.org

www.graceprimary.org

www.facebook.com/GracePrimarySchool

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BOOKS

BOOK REVIEWS LOVE & RESPECT: THE LOVE SHE MOST DESIRES; THE RESPECT HE DESPERATELY NEEDS By: Dr Emmerson Eggerichs What do you want for your marriage? Want some peace?

Want to feel close? Want to feel valued? Want to experience marriage the way God intended? Then why not try some Love and Respect. A wife has one driving need, to feel loved.

When that need is met, she is happy. A husband has one driving need, to feel respected. When that need is met, he is happy. When either of these needs isn’t met, things get crazy. Love & Respect reveals why spouses react negatively to each other, and how they can deal with such conflict quickly, easily, and biblically.

IT’S NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THIS WAY By: Lysa TerKeurst The bestselling author of the New York Times, Lysa TerKeurst, exposes her heart in the midst of shattering circumstances and teaches readers how to live confident when life might not turn out as planned. What do you do when the timing of God appears questionable, His lack of intervention hurtful, and His promises uncertain?

Life often looks so very different than we hoped or expected. Some events may simply catch us off guard for a moment, but others shatter us completely. We feel disappointed and disillusioned, and we quietly start to wonder about the reality of God’s goodness.

Lysa TerKeurst understands this deeply. But she’s also discovered that our disappointments can be the divine appointments our souls need to radically encounter God. In It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way, Lysa invites us into her journey of faith with vulnerability, and humor.

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JESUS OVER EVERYTHING: UNCOMPLICATING THE DAILY STRUGGLE TO PUT JESUS FIRST

By: Lisa Whittle Bible instructor Lisa Whittle, in Jesus Over Everything, offers realistic language for our common challenges, giving hope and guidance for the future. We all want to live simpler lives and to put Jesus first – and we struggle with both. While we are busy strategizing new ways to streamline our calendars and clean out our closets of the clutter, what really needs attention is what will give us long-term clarity and peace — the priority order of Jesus over everything in our lives.

In Jesus Over Everything, Lisa shares eight statements of choice to help us grow in our understanding of what it means to put Jesus first amid the craziness of our days. Discover the joy of choosing; commitment over mood, real over pretty, steady over hype, holiness over freedom, service over the spotlight, and much more. Jesus Over Everything is a practical, compelling picture of what we crave yet struggle to define as we seek to give God his rightful place in our everyday lives.

GET OUT OF YOUR HEAD STUDY GUIDE: A STUDY IN PHILIPPIANS By: Jennie Allen Are your thoughts holding you captive? Jennie Allen knows what it’s like to swirl in a spiral of destructive thoughts, such as I’ll never be good enough. Other people have better lives than I do. God couldn’t really love me. But Jennie also knows we don’t have to stay stuck in toxic thinking patterns.

In Get Out of Your Head, a six-session videobased Bible study. Jennie inspires and equips us to transform our emotions, our outlook, and even our circumstances by taking control of our thoughts. Our enemy is determined to get in our heads to make us feel helpless, overwhelmed, and incapable of making a difference for the kingdom of God. But when we submit our minds to Christ, the promises and goodness of God flood our lives in remarkable ways.

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NIGERIAN BOY DANCING IN THE RAIN GETS A SCHOLARSHIP TO STUDY IN NEW YORK

Anthony Mmesoma Madu, 11 years old from Lagos has obtained a scholarship to New York’s prestigious American Ballet Theatre after a video of him doing ballet in the rain surfaced on the internet.

His dedication to dance and his ability to pull stunning moves in the rain without having shoes on got the attention of social media users, including the likes of Viola Davis and Cynthis Erivo.

In the clip, Madu is seen outside his dance studio, Leap of Dance Academy, practicing on a muddy pavement that is wet from the rain. He is barefoot, in shorts and a tank top, but dances masterfully, spinning, leaping, and doing arabesques.

“Ballet is my life. When I am dancing, I feel as if I am on top of the world,” he told Reuters. “Any time my mom sends me on an errand, I dance ballet before I go to that place and it makes me feel very, very happy. I so much love ballet.”

Cynthia Harvey, the artistic director of the ABT Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Dance in New York, saw the clip.

“A friend who lives in the UK sent me the video,” she told the Cincinnati Enquirer. “Within a day, I was trying to find him.” She managed to track him down through his teacher. She helped him secure a full scholarship to ABT’s virtual three weeks Young Dancer Summer Workshop, as well as internet access so he can attend remote classes. Next year, he will travel to the US to train further with a scholarship from Ballet Beyond Borders.

Anthony’s parents wanted him to become a priest, but they are supportive of his dance dreams.

Now, he wants to bring the skills he has learned to others and promote ballet in the region. “I saw the need to bring a form of art that shows discipline, dedication, and commitment,” he told Reuters.

KANYE WEST REPORTEDLY IN TALKS WITH TIKTOK FOR “JESUS TOK” IDEA Kanye recently revealed how the idea for “JESUS Tok” came to him after watching TikTok with his daughter. He said that “as a Christian father I was disturbed by a lot of the content but I completely loved the technology,” and calling for collaboration with the App on Christian monitored version.

Following the announcement, Kanye offered an excerpt from the Bible, ROMANS 8:31, “If God is for us, who can be against us?!”

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CAMPIING

THE ABRAHAM ACCORD US President Donald Trump has

agreements regarding

labeled it a “historic diplomatic

investment, tourism,

breakthrough.” ISRAEL and the UNITED

direct flights, security,

ARAB EMIRATES have agreed to “full normalization of relations,” and Israel says it will “suspend” plans to annex the West Bank. Trump announced the deal Thursday, calling it “a significant step towards building a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous Middle East.”

telecommunications, technology, energy, healthcare, culture, the environment… and other areas of mutual benefit.”

The agreement, known as the Abraham

The statement

Accord, could signal similar pacts in the

continues: “Opening

future.

direct ties between two

“We are already discussing this with

of the Middle East’s

other nations,” Trump says, “so you will

most dynamic societies

probably see others of these… now that the ice has been broken.” The UAE follows Egypt and Jordan in opening relations with Israel, though the UAE is the first to “normalize” relations.

Details of the Abraham Accord According to a joint statement about the

and advanced economies will transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations.”

The breakthrough with the UAE is

Abraham Accord, Israel and the UAE will

that it openly speaks of normalization:

exchange embassies and ambassadors,

trade, tourism, scientific and economic

and they plan to “sign bilateral

cooperation. That’s an Arab first.

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PERSONAL DETAILS OF 24 MILLION SOUTH AFRICANS MAY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED AFTER ATTACK ON CREDIT BUREAU South Africa has just been hit by one of the largest ever data breaches after Experian, one of the country’s biggest credit bureaus was hit by a fraudster.

The personal information of as many as 24 million South Africans and nearly 800 000 businesses were compromised. These records were “exposed to a suspected fraudster”. The person impersonated a client of the firm.

Experian collects credit information about consumers from banks, retailers, and other parties. That means that even if you have not interacted with Experian, your

personal details and financial history may have been compromised. If so, you may be very vulnerable to having your identity impersonated.

“The compromise of personal information can create opportunities for criminals to impersonate you but does not guarantee access to your banking profile or accounts.

However, criminals can use this information to trick you into disclosing your confidential banking details,” says Nischal Mewalall, CEO of the South African Banking Risk Centre (SABRIC).

NATHANIEL JULIUS: SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE MEMBERS ARRESTED FOR KILLING TEEN

The family of Nathaniel Julius, who had Down’s syndrome, said he had gone out to buy biscuits when he was shot dead in Johannesburg’s Eldorado Park.

The officers will be charged with murder and possibly defeating the ends of justice, says the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the police watchdog.

The family said that Nathaniel was shot after not answering an officer’s questions. They added that this was because of his disability.

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The police initially said Nathaniel had been caught up in a shootout between officers and local gangsters. IPID said it had decided to arrest the officers after “careful consideration of the evidence at hand”.

After Nathaniel’s death on Wednesday night, 26 August, hundreds of residents took to the streets in protest on Thursday, resulting in violent clashes with police.

The clashes led Cyril Ramaphosa to appeal for calm.

“There is no evidence of any provocation and it is difficult to understand why live ammunition could be used in a community such as this,” Archbishop Malusi Mpumlwana, head of the South African Council of Churches, told media outside Nathaniel’s home.

His death has shocked not only South Africans but also many around the world. The community has been left outraged, wanting answers and justice.

Leading to Jesus Leading for Jesus Leading like Jesus

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THE CHRISTIAN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE DIRECTORY

The River Bible Institute is a 3 year FULL time Bible Training Centre, designed to equip you for the 5 fold ministry in the 21st century. The courses consist of various subjects such as: Soul winning, outreaches, planting a church, running a missions trip, conferences, old and new testament survey, the love walk, the name of Jesus, walking by faith, prayer life, church history, worship lifestyle, and many more over the 3 year period.

Contact Gail

For more info on the Full Time Program or the Online Program please contact us: Tel: 043 711 4803 / 0437114800 | Email: rbi@myriver.com / rbi.admin@myriver.com Or apply directly online at rbiafrica.com | January & July Intakes Open Now

info@fowlertours.co.za 076 352 3809 www.fowlertours.co.za

ESHOWE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Where future Leaders are trained.

Our Goal is to Instill Wonder, Spark Discovery and Fuel Passion

ALEXANDRIA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY was founded in 2002 as a Community School by Principal Gretel Olivier

A SCHOOL WHERE EVERY LEARNER HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

We offer Individual Education Biblically Based Curriculum Grade RRR - Grade 12

Alexandria 6185 P. O. Box 294 Tel 046 653 0651 Cell 083 653 0035

Telefax: 035 474 2846 E-Mail: aceshowe@netactive.co.za

Fax 086 504 3621 E-mail aca@vodamail.co.za

Welcome home!

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A community of loving disciples devoted to the King & His Kingdom who passionately worship God.

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WE ASPIRE TO HONOUR GOD TO KNOW HIM AND TO MAKE HIM KNOWN IN THE CITY

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A full service, conference, retreat, camping and training center on a beautiful 50 acre estate near Port Shepstone, KZN. bookings@skogheim.org.za

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Tel: 039 685 4793 - Cell : 072 769 5893 Fax: 086 292 1535 www.skogheim.org.za

Bringing Evangelical and Reformed Theological Education to the Eastern Cape 18 Leopold Street, King Williams Town Tel: 043 642 4737 www.dumisani.org

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