Only moments ago we viewed the documentary film known as The Oasis, produced by Shark Islands Productions. Mark it in your coming attractions. ABC TV (Australia) will be showing it on Thursday night 10th April for the whole country to see. I would only recommend it for adults to view, but commend it to them wholeheartedly.
There are no less than 22,000 homeless youth in Australia. 1,000 of them stay at a SA facility each night. Meet a few of them and witness their revealing journeys in this documentary. God help us.
James 1:27 (MSG)
27 Real religion, the kind that passes muster before God the Father, is this: Reach out to the homeless and loveless in their plight, and guard against corruption from the godless world.
Monday, 31 March 2008
Sunday, 30 March 2008
Moreland City Corps
This morning at the Moreland City Corps in Melbourne, God moved in a beautiful way over the congregation following a good message by Commissioner Barry Pobjie. I'll not attempt to describe it here for fear I may not do it justice and trivialize the experience. Just let it be understood that God is moving among us. Hallelujah!
God is calling us to see a larger than local picture of His Kingdom. Let us do so with integrity and personal involvement.
Luke 16:16 (MSG)
16 God's Law and the Prophets climaxed in John; Now it's all kingdom of God—the glad news and compelling invitation to every man and woman.
God is calling us to see a larger than local picture of His Kingdom. Let us do so with integrity and personal involvement.
Luke 16:16 (MSG)
16 God's Law and the Prophets climaxed in John; Now it's all kingdom of God—the glad news and compelling invitation to every man and woman.
Saturday, 29 March 2008
95-99 Railway Road, Blackburn, Victoria
THQ Buildings
National, Australasian, Australian and Australia Southern
With the Army established in Australia and spreading out from Adelaide, Major James Barker determined that the National Headquarters would be in Melbourne.
1. 20 IZETT STREET, PRAHRAN
In January 1883, Melbourne’s third Corps was started at Prahran, in a small building in Izett Street. “These premises also were used by Major James Barker as Australia’s first National Headquarters and training home.” [War Cry (London), 14/3/1883.]
2. 52 BOURKE STREET WEST (now 415 Bourke Street), MELBOURNE.
Also, early in 1883, the Army moved into rooms in a building grandly designated “Cardigan Chambers”, located at 52 Bourke Street. Majors James and Alice Barker used part of the premises as their quarters. This was in effect a “city office” for the Australasian Headquarters soon to be established.
3. 288 COVENTRY STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE.
The first (proper) Australasian Headquarters was opened in July 1883 at Coventry Street, being leased by The Salvation Army for 5 years. Previously it was Mendes’ “Academy Theatre” and it also housed the Army’s Printing Works and Trade Department. There was a hall seating 1500, as well as a smaller hall suitable for officer-only meetings. It was registered as a place of worship. Training for Cadets was carried out in an adjoining house.
4. 75 EXHIBITION ST (later 159-161 Exhibition Street) MELBOURNE. (nb: called Stephen St before 1888)
To cater for the rapid growth through 1884, and the influx of staff heralded by the impending arrival of Colonel Ballington Booth and Major T Henry Howard, Major Barker secured the lease of two three-storied shops near the corner of Exhibition and Bourke Streets for use as the Australasian Headquarters. Previously it had been used for the sale of second-hand clothing. The Army occupied it for 3 years in conjunction with the Headquarters building in Coventry Street, which was also the premises for the South Melbourne Corps.
5. 122 EXHIBITION STREET, MELBOURNE. (nb: called Stephen St before 1888)
An ex-lodging house, this three-storied building in Exhibition Street was leased from 1888 to 1889 as the Australasian Headquarters. The rear of the building abutted two smaller buildings that opened into Little Collins Street, and served as an annex.
6. 187 LITTLE COLLINS STREET, MELBOURNE.
In April 1890. a five year lease was secured for a newly completed building in Little Collins Street. The War Cry referred to it as the Inter-Colonial Headquarters and Publishing Offices for Australia and Tasmania. The following year, with the expansion of operations, number 185 Liile Collins Street was also taken..
7. 69 BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE.
The YMCA built the 69 Bourke Street premises in 1891, however due to the land and bank crash in 1892, the consequent depression forced the building onto the market, where it was quickly grabbed by Commissioner Coombs in 1894, the become the Headquarters for Australasia. The YMCA was pleased that the premises would continue to be used for Christian work, and to pay for the purchase, Commissioner Coombs put a levy on every Officer and Soldier in the Territory. In 1912 it changed from the Australasian Territorial Headquarters to the Australian Territorial Headquarters; and then in 1921 became the Australia Southern Territory Headquarters. When THQ moved to Park Street in 1884, the Melbourne Central Division Headquarters remained, until its relocation at the end of 2006. It is of note that every General of The Salvation Army, except the present incumbent, has preached from the platform of The City Temple, which forms a major part of this building.
8. 39 PARK STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE.
In 1983, 100 years after the opening of the first Australasian Headquarters, the Army purchased a premises not too distant from the original 1883 one in South Melbourne. The new Australia Southern Territory Headquarters was officially opened in April 1884. Some ten years later, in September 1993, a decision to relocate was made, as Park Street was considered inadequate in size and potential. Due to the recession, a most attractive opportunity to purchase another premises presented itself at Mont Albert. In June 1994 Park Street was auctioned.
9. 5 HAMILTON STREET, MONT ALBERT
The new Australia Southern Territory Headquarters building at Mont Albert was a 3 level retail/office building constructed in the late 1980s. It was officially opened on 6 August 1994. Room for expansion again became a problem, with some THQ Departments unable to be accommodated in the same building. THQ moved from Mont Albert to Blackburn in March 2008.
10. 95-99 RAILWAY PARADE, BLACKBURN.
Hallelujah!
Psalms 127:1 (NIV)
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
National, Australasian, Australian and Australia Southern
With the Army established in Australia and spreading out from Adelaide, Major James Barker determined that the National Headquarters would be in Melbourne.
1. 20 IZETT STREET, PRAHRAN
In January 1883, Melbourne’s third Corps was started at Prahran, in a small building in Izett Street. “These premises also were used by Major James Barker as Australia’s first National Headquarters and training home.” [War Cry (London), 14/3/1883.]
2. 52 BOURKE STREET WEST (now 415 Bourke Street), MELBOURNE.
Also, early in 1883, the Army moved into rooms in a building grandly designated “Cardigan Chambers”, located at 52 Bourke Street. Majors James and Alice Barker used part of the premises as their quarters. This was in effect a “city office” for the Australasian Headquarters soon to be established.
3. 288 COVENTRY STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE.
The first (proper) Australasian Headquarters was opened in July 1883 at Coventry Street, being leased by The Salvation Army for 5 years. Previously it was Mendes’ “Academy Theatre” and it also housed the Army’s Printing Works and Trade Department. There was a hall seating 1500, as well as a smaller hall suitable for officer-only meetings. It was registered as a place of worship. Training for Cadets was carried out in an adjoining house.
4. 75 EXHIBITION ST (later 159-161 Exhibition Street) MELBOURNE. (nb: called Stephen St before 1888)
To cater for the rapid growth through 1884, and the influx of staff heralded by the impending arrival of Colonel Ballington Booth and Major T Henry Howard, Major Barker secured the lease of two three-storied shops near the corner of Exhibition and Bourke Streets for use as the Australasian Headquarters. Previously it had been used for the sale of second-hand clothing. The Army occupied it for 3 years in conjunction with the Headquarters building in Coventry Street, which was also the premises for the South Melbourne Corps.
5. 122 EXHIBITION STREET, MELBOURNE. (nb: called Stephen St before 1888)
An ex-lodging house, this three-storied building in Exhibition Street was leased from 1888 to 1889 as the Australasian Headquarters. The rear of the building abutted two smaller buildings that opened into Little Collins Street, and served as an annex.
6. 187 LITTLE COLLINS STREET, MELBOURNE.
In April 1890. a five year lease was secured for a newly completed building in Little Collins Street. The War Cry referred to it as the Inter-Colonial Headquarters and Publishing Offices for Australia and Tasmania. The following year, with the expansion of operations, number 185 Liile Collins Street was also taken..
7. 69 BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE.
The YMCA built the 69 Bourke Street premises in 1891, however due to the land and bank crash in 1892, the consequent depression forced the building onto the market, where it was quickly grabbed by Commissioner Coombs in 1894, the become the Headquarters for Australasia. The YMCA was pleased that the premises would continue to be used for Christian work, and to pay for the purchase, Commissioner Coombs put a levy on every Officer and Soldier in the Territory. In 1912 it changed from the Australasian Territorial Headquarters to the Australian Territorial Headquarters; and then in 1921 became the Australia Southern Territory Headquarters. When THQ moved to Park Street in 1884, the Melbourne Central Division Headquarters remained, until its relocation at the end of 2006. It is of note that every General of The Salvation Army, except the present incumbent, has preached from the platform of The City Temple, which forms a major part of this building.
8. 39 PARK STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE.
In 1983, 100 years after the opening of the first Australasian Headquarters, the Army purchased a premises not too distant from the original 1883 one in South Melbourne. The new Australia Southern Territory Headquarters was officially opened in April 1884. Some ten years later, in September 1993, a decision to relocate was made, as Park Street was considered inadequate in size and potential. Due to the recession, a most attractive opportunity to purchase another premises presented itself at Mont Albert. In June 1994 Park Street was auctioned.
9. 5 HAMILTON STREET, MONT ALBERT
The new Australia Southern Territory Headquarters building at Mont Albert was a 3 level retail/office building constructed in the late 1980s. It was officially opened on 6 August 1994. Room for expansion again became a problem, with some THQ Departments unable to be accommodated in the same building. THQ moved from Mont Albert to Blackburn in March 2008.
10. 95-99 RAILWAY PARADE, BLACKBURN.
Hallelujah!
Psalms 127:1 (NIV)
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
Friday, 28 March 2008
God's Will
Finding and knowing God's will is a delight of life. It is totally about trusting Him.
Do you want to know His will?
1. Ask Him and listen for His direction.
2. Read your Bible - many of His answers to your questions are there already
3. Ask someone who is close to Him, that you trust.
4. Take a step. He will open the doors or close the doors in front of you.
When you know His will and you are there, the delight will be mutual between you and God.
Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Do you want to know His will?
1. Ask Him and listen for His direction.
2. Read your Bible - many of His answers to your questions are there already
3. Ask someone who is close to Him, that you trust.
4. Take a step. He will open the doors or close the doors in front of you.
When you know His will and you are there, the delight will be mutual between you and God.
Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Thursday, 27 March 2008
Rain Today
No complaints about the rain today. It's an answer to prayer and we are grateful.
Sometimes God's answers don't result in sunshine.
We need to be happy with His answers.
Psalms 143:1 (NIV)
1 O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.
Sometimes God's answers don't result in sunshine.
We need to be happy with His answers.
Psalms 143:1 (NIV)
1 O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.
Guys and Dolls
Now playing at the Princess Theatre, Guys and Dolls is presented with lively energy and convincing authenticity. Tonight, as well, they contributed a portion of their proceeds to the Red Shield Appeal of TSA. We thank them each for their superb performance and generosity.
Catch it if you can.
Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--
Catch it if you can.
Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
Training Cadets
Our Cadets are fortunate for the training they're receiving. I do have the sense they appreciate the opportunities that are theirs. We stopped by there today with Commissioners Barry and Raemor Pobjie, The Zonal Leaders for the South Pacific and Eastern Asia Zone of TSA.
Their words were timely and profound. The messages were designed for the Cadets, but all of us present were encouraged, informed and challenged. Hallelujah!
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Their words were timely and profound. The messages were designed for the Cadets, but all of us present were encouraged, informed and challenged. Hallelujah!
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Monday, 24 March 2008
Major Robyn Clinch
Next on my hero list is a great soul and leader. Her name is Major Robyn Clinch and she is stationed in the Eastern Victoria Division as the Divisional Director Women's Ministries and Divisional Secretary for Officer Personnel.
She has a passion for Jesus and a matching energy to serve the Lord with all she is. She's authentic and working hard to share God's love. Do you want to know Jesus? Meet Major Clinch. You'll see Him.
Acts 1:8 (MSG)
8 What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
She has a passion for Jesus and a matching energy to serve the Lord with all she is. She's authentic and working hard to share God's love. Do you want to know Jesus? Meet Major Clinch. You'll see Him.
Acts 1:8 (MSG)
8 What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
Sunday, 23 March 2008
Resurrection Sunday
Matthew 28:6 (NIV)
6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Saturday, 22 March 2008
Silent Saturday
Matthew 27:64 (NIV)
64 So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first."
64 So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first."
Friday, 21 March 2008
Good Friday
Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Thursday, 20 March 2008
Maundy Thursday
This is a very special day in Scripture.
The word Maundy is derived through Middle English, and Old French mandé, from the Latin mandatum, the first word of the phrase "Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos" ("A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you"), the statement by Jesus in the Gospel of John (13:34) by which Jesus explained to the Apostles the significance of his action of washing their feet. The phrase is used as the antiphon sung during the "Mandatum" ceremony of the washing of the feet, which may be held during Mass or at another time as a separate event, during which a priest or bishop (representing Christ) ceremonially washes the feet of others, typically 12 persons chosen as a cross-section of the community. (Wikipedia)
John 14:1 (NIV)
1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
The word Maundy is derived through Middle English, and Old French mandé, from the Latin mandatum, the first word of the phrase "Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos" ("A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you"), the statement by Jesus in the Gospel of John (13:34) by which Jesus explained to the Apostles the significance of his action of washing their feet. The phrase is used as the antiphon sung during the "Mandatum" ceremony of the washing of the feet, which may be held during Mass or at another time as a separate event, during which a priest or bishop (representing Christ) ceremonially washes the feet of others, typically 12 persons chosen as a cross-section of the community. (Wikipedia)
John 14:1 (NIV)
1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
Holy Week
I enjoy the way this week draws the attention of much of our society. It's a prime opportunity to share the realities of the love of God. Following the Scriptures in this week of Christ's life is rich with meaning and hope.
Why not strengthen our resolve to be holy people on this holy week? It'll help us to make this a holy month...year...life.
John 13:34 (MSG)
34 "Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another.
Why not strengthen our resolve to be holy people on this holy week? It'll help us to make this a holy month...year...life.
John 13:34 (MSG)
34 "Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
B/M Noel Jones
Australia knows that Noel Jones is a Real Estate Agency. The world and Salvationists know him as a great musician. In addition to his extraordinary abilities to compose Christian music, Noel is a terrific Bandmaster and a Salvation soldier.
I don't know that I've ever met a more genuine follower of Christ. He demonstrates God's love powerfully and humbly. Do you want a role model for your life? Look no further. His name is Noel Jones.
Psalms 149:1 (MSG)
1 Hallelujah! Sing to God a brand-new song, praise him in the company of all who love him.
I don't know that I've ever met a more genuine follower of Christ. He demonstrates God's love powerfully and humbly. Do you want a role model for your life? Look no further. His name is Noel Jones.
Psalms 149:1 (MSG)
1 Hallelujah! Sing to God a brand-new song, praise him in the company of all who love him.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Eastcare
What do you call the people who faithfully work at TSA's Eastcare in Melbourne? You call them great people. You were expecting 'Eastcarers' or 'Eastcare givers?'
I met with a few of our choice Social Programme Salvos (my inclusive definition) today with stops in Croydon, Box Hill and Hawthorn. They're simply amazing. It makes me shout, 'thank God for the Salvos!'
People are being helped and God is being glorified. Need a prayer subject today? Pray for these teams of workers, committed and willing. Hallelujah!
1 Kings 3:8 (MSG)
8 And here I am, set down in the middle of the people you've chosen, a great people—far too many to ever count.
I met with a few of our choice Social Programme Salvos (my inclusive definition) today with stops in Croydon, Box Hill and Hawthorn. They're simply amazing. It makes me shout, 'thank God for the Salvos!'
People are being helped and God is being glorified. Need a prayer subject today? Pray for these teams of workers, committed and willing. Hallelujah!
1 Kings 3:8 (MSG)
8 And here I am, set down in the middle of the people you've chosen, a great people—far too many to ever count.
Sunday, 16 March 2008
Camberwell Corps
Palm Sunday at the Camberwell Corps was a beautiful experience. Thank you, Majors Pratt and your team for making it right. The meeting was crafted appropriately and the music was terrific. Many people made us feel welcome and the message spoke to our hearts.
Our Army is blessed with all different types of worship experiences that each honour God who meets our needs and desires our love. Hallelujah!
John 12:13 (MSG)
13 They broke off palm branches and went out to meet him. And they cheered: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in God's name! Yes! The King of Israel!
Our Army is blessed with all different types of worship experiences that each honour God who meets our needs and desires our love. Hallelujah!
John 12:13 (MSG)
13 They broke off palm branches and went out to meet him. And they cheered: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in God's name! Yes! The King of Israel!
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Timbrels
Timbrels were flying and timbrellists were everywhere at Waverley Temple Corps tonight. Miriam would have been excited. The hall was filled for performances by the Waverley Sr. and YP Timbrels, the Launceston, Tasmania Timbrels, and the Cranbourne YP Timbrels. The Melbourne Veteran's Band was on duty to thrill us all with their music.
The Scriptures encourage us to praise the Lord with Timbrel and dance. That describes much of what we witnessed tonight. It takes hard work to do what they do and I'm convinced God is delighted. We could do with more of this in the territory.
Matthew 11:29 (MSG)
29 Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.
The Scriptures encourage us to praise the Lord with Timbrel and dance. That describes much of what we witnessed tonight. It takes hard work to do what they do and I'm convinced God is delighted. We could do with more of this in the territory.
Matthew 11:29 (MSG)
29 Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.
Friday, 14 March 2008
Advisory Board
The heart of a good Advisory Board continues to be the Advisory Board members. We have an extraordinary Advisory Board in Melbourne. Each member is dedicated to the mission of TSA and give themselves in this process to better our situation and improve our service.
God continues to bring amazing people alongside us to serve Him effectively. He sustains His work and His workers. Thank you, Lord for each of these who support your cause.
1 Corinthians 16:16 (MSG)
16 honor and look up to people like that: companions and workers who show us how to do it, giving us something to aspire to.
God continues to bring amazing people alongside us to serve Him effectively. He sustains His work and His workers. Thank you, Lord for each of these who support your cause.
1 Corinthians 16:16 (MSG)
16 honor and look up to people like that: companions and workers who show us how to do it, giving us something to aspire to.
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Certainty
Certainty can be a luxury. Some people seem to be able to get there quicker than others. There are those who need to explore every avenue of a decision before they can make a choice. Even then, they are somewhat uncertain.
Feelings can get in the way of a good decision. Lack of information is a common distraction to certainty.
You see, there is a place for trust in everyone's life. Most often we trust those we love. We ought always trust God...with certainty.
Proverbs 3:5 (MSG)
5 Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Feelings can get in the way of a good decision. Lack of information is a common distraction to certainty.
You see, there is a place for trust in everyone's life. Most often we trust those we love. We ought always trust God...with certainty.
Proverbs 3:5 (MSG)
5 Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Tests
So we take tests to see how we're doing. An exam in school or an eye exam at the optometrist, both are to determine our place, status, progress or regression. When we refuse such things, it doesn't allow us the awareness of our condition.
Some people don't like to go to the doctor because it's there where they find out when something's wrong. It's a false security, but I can relate to the situation.
God tests us. We can avoid it, ignore it, pray it away, or prove it. I'm going with God's plan.
Psalms 26:2 (MSG)
2 Examine me, God, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I'm fit inside and out
Some people don't like to go to the doctor because it's there where they find out when something's wrong. It's a false security, but I can relate to the situation.
God tests us. We can avoid it, ignore it, pray it away, or prove it. I'm going with God's plan.
Psalms 26:2 (MSG)
2 Examine me, God, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I'm fit inside and out
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Cooperation
When I consider the multiple tasks required at THQ today it confirms the expression, "many hands make light work."
I'm really proud of the team who worked hard (as usual) to move into the new address. Even our Emergency Disaster Team came alongside to help.
Thanks to all for another day of good work.
Matthew 5:9 (MSG)
9 "You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.
I'm really proud of the team who worked hard (as usual) to move into the new address. Even our Emergency Disaster Team came alongside to help.
Thanks to all for another day of good work.
Matthew 5:9 (MSG)
9 "You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.
Monday, 10 March 2008
John Dalziel OOF
I understand why John was presented with the Order of the Founder. There's no way the citation included all he has done and continues to be in The Salvation Army.
When the concept of Connections '07 was forming, I met with him (for the first time) and identified with all I was told about him. The record will reveal that as the event chairman, he guided the course with intrepid and intelligent leadership.
He continues to serve in the Camberwell Corps with distinction. Hallelujah!
Thank you Lord, for this man who follows you whole heartedly.
2 Kings 4:9 (MSG)
9 "I'm certain," said the woman to her husband, "that this man who stops by with us all the time is a holy man of God.
When the concept of Connections '07 was forming, I met with him (for the first time) and identified with all I was told about him. The record will reveal that as the event chairman, he guided the course with intrepid and intelligent leadership.
He continues to serve in the Camberwell Corps with distinction. Hallelujah!
Thank you Lord, for this man who follows you whole heartedly.
2 Kings 4:9 (MSG)
9 "I'm certain," said the woman to her husband, "that this man who stops by with us all the time is a holy man of God.
Sunday, 9 March 2008
Bairnsdale, Victoria
At the outer limits of the eastern part of our territory stands a corps with good leadership and dynamic vision. We visited Bairnsdale today for worship and valued the experience immensely. Captains Templeman-Twells are serving with distinction and especially composed on short notice of our visit.
The soldiers too were very warm in their friendliness to us and other visitors on this holiday weekend. This is a beautiful corps with growing potential for the future. Thank you friends for honouring God today in worship and fellowship.
Jeremiah 3:17 (MSG)
17 "Jerusalem will be the new Ark—'God's Throne.' All the godless nations, no longer stuck in the ruts of their evil ways, will gather there to honor God.
The soldiers too were very warm in their friendliness to us and other visitors on this holiday weekend. This is a beautiful corps with growing potential for the future. Thank you friends for honouring God today in worship and fellowship.
Jeremiah 3:17 (MSG)
17 "Jerusalem will be the new Ark—'God's Throne.' All the godless nations, no longer stuck in the ruts of their evil ways, will gather there to honor God.
Friday, 7 March 2008
Prayers for a New Neighbourhood
Whilst moving into a new neighbourhood, we attempt to be salt and light to the Blackburn community. It would be interesting to assess the impact we've had in Mont Albert. I get the financial impact, but what about the spiritual?
We must do so in Blackburn. We've been praying through the streets and for all the transitions in lives. Now, Lord, enable us to reveal your glory in practical ways in this new community. Please help us to be effective in our witness and resolve to follow you in every way.
We go forward in your name.
Joshua 1:3 (MSG)
3 I'm giving you every square inch of the land you set your foot on—just as I promised Moses.
We must do so in Blackburn. We've been praying through the streets and for all the transitions in lives. Now, Lord, enable us to reveal your glory in practical ways in this new community. Please help us to be effective in our witness and resolve to follow you in every way.
We go forward in your name.
Joshua 1:3 (MSG)
3 I'm giving you every square inch of the land you set your foot on—just as I promised Moses.
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Historic Day
The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory left its headquarters building in Mont Albert today for the last time. On Tuesday, we will formally resume ministry on Railway Road in Blackburn at the new headquarters.
God bless the movement of The Salvation Army.
Hebrews 11:9 (NIV)
9 By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.
God bless the movement of The Salvation Army.
Hebrews 11:9 (NIV)
9 By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
Heroes
I'm beginning to feature heroes on the right column. The first is a Leading Lady - General Eva Burrows. The thirteenth General of The Salvation Army, she continues to show the grace and leadership to all of us in her faithful journey in life.
Her ministry today is neither limited to Melbourne nor to the 614 New Life Centre where she regularly serves her Lord in TSA with continued integrity. In these past few years, she has traveled extensively around the globe in large demand for very good reason.
Thank you General Eva Burrows for showing us God in your loving, capable service to Him.
Luke 22:26 (MSG)
26 It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant.
Her ministry today is neither limited to Melbourne nor to the 614 New Life Centre where she regularly serves her Lord in TSA with continued integrity. In these past few years, she has traveled extensively around the globe in large demand for very good reason.
Thank you General Eva Burrows for showing us God in your loving, capable service to Him.
Luke 22:26 (MSG)
26 It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant.
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
Mixed Signals
Worse than a red light is a traffic light that's not working. What do we do? We look carefully both ways, a few times, and then we go when it's clear.
Sometimes we get mixed signals. It can come from our own expectations and a self focused perspective. When we're able to see things from another person's place, the signals can clear up a bit. I'm afraid mixed signals can complicate things your whole life. We can be on guard if we're disciplined, but just when you least expect it, someone throws you a curve.
Why don't we help the cause by not sending mixed signals?
Matthew 12:21 (MSG)
21 the mere sound of his name will signal hope, even among far-off unbelievers.
Sometimes we get mixed signals. It can come from our own expectations and a self focused perspective. When we're able to see things from another person's place, the signals can clear up a bit. I'm afraid mixed signals can complicate things your whole life. We can be on guard if we're disciplined, but just when you least expect it, someone throws you a curve.
Why don't we help the cause by not sending mixed signals?
Matthew 12:21 (MSG)
21 the mere sound of his name will signal hope, even among far-off unbelievers.
Monday, 3 March 2008
Steps
A child only learns to walk by its first steps. An adult with a leg injury only begins to walk with first steps. You and I will never arrive at our destination without taking steps.
Why not take a step today? Trusting God? Take a step. Doing it in faith even means taking that step without the certainty you have where you're standing.
Psalms 46:10 (MSG)
10 "Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything."
Why not take a step today? Trusting God? Take a step. Doing it in faith even means taking that step without the certainty you have where you're standing.
Psalms 46:10 (MSG)
10 "Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything."
Saturday, 1 March 2008
Trusting God
One of the beautiful aspects of faith is how we can trust God. Yes, we trust Him for who He is, who He is making us and much more. I celebrate how we can trust each other because we trust God.
Often, when someone is stretching my imagination, I am able to go forward with them, simply because I'm trusting God for them. It's one of His gifts to us.
Trusting completely? It probably means more than we know.
Romans 4:14 (MSG)
14 If those who get what God gives them only get it by doing everything they are told to do and filling out all the right forms properly signed, that eliminates personal trust completely and turns the promise into an ironclad contract! That's not a holy promise; that's a business deal.
Often, when someone is stretching my imagination, I am able to go forward with them, simply because I'm trusting God for them. It's one of His gifts to us.
Trusting completely? It probably means more than we know.
Romans 4:14 (MSG)
14 If those who get what God gives them only get it by doing everything they are told to do and filling out all the right forms properly signed, that eliminates personal trust completely and turns the promise into an ironclad contract! That's not a holy promise; that's a business deal.
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