Genesis 1

We celebrated the first anniversary of the Genesis programme in Perth today. It continues to show its value to the homeless of Perth and the Kingdom of God. Captain Colin Eldridge and his team are sensational in their compassion and service to their people. They are more than convincing. They're compelling.

Genesis is The Salvation Army. People are being saved and people are being supported. They feed 150 or so on a daily basis. Medical care is provided. Employment Plus staff come to help in their field. All different types of services are rendered and God is honoured. Hallelujah!

Stop by when you're in Perth and be prepared to lend a hand in the name of Christ.

Genesis 1:31a (NIV)
31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.

Kalgoorlie, Western Australia

Moving due East from Perth in Western Australia, we come to Kalgoorlie and Boulder. In these communities, TSA is beautifully missional with a corps, Men's Hostel, Youth Crisis Accommodation Centre, two Op Shops and plenty of other services that are needed and valued here. Captain Lynn Jones is the corps officer in this mining city of approximately 30,000. She is supported by a capable professional staff and helpers of all sorts.

We were able to meet with quite a few of our supporters at the corps for afternoon tea. (Australia is a civilised country) Each one gave witness to the compelling gospel that comes from Captain Jones. Hallelujah!

Our salute today goes to the whole team here in Kalgoorlie. Coming this way for employment? There's a good Army awaiting you.

1 Thessalonians 1:2 (NIV)
2 We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.

Karratha, Western Australia

As the northernmost corps of the Western Australia Division, it was a thrill to get here and see what God is doing. Under the leadership of Captains Cymon and Naava Brooks, the corps mission is in tact and greatly appreciated by the community. Majors Trainor and us met with community leaders on the occasion of our visit. It was worth every minute.

Karratha should be on our prayer lists. The challenges are unique and the remoteness of the appointment creates its own difficulties. The Brooks are doing fine and deserve our commendation. The gospel is being communicated every day in different ways. Hallelujah!

Acts 17:27 (MSG)
27 so we could seek after God, and not just grope around in the dark but actually find him. He doesn't play hide-and-seek with us. He's not remote; he's near.

Trusting God Today

The level of our trust is directly proportional to our confidence in God's capacity. It seems to me that a person can say they trust God, but until they do, they don't. How big is God to you? Measure your faith and you'll have an indication.

We've had a few moments in our life when we trusted God and the results weren't what we had hoped. Notice I haven't written that the results of our hopes speak to our depth of faith. Our faith is shallow if we are sidetracked by our disappointment at the outcomes. Now let's trust God who loves us with abundance, not for what we get but for who He is.

Revelation 15:3 (TEV)
3 and singing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb: "Lord God Almighty, how great and wonderful are your deeds! King of the nations, how right and true are your ways!

Planning

After the vision comes the plan. What are your plans? Long life? Family? Never get married? Move to another country? Never leave your home town?

We develop plans for all sorts of things. We plan to get groceries or go to the movies. We plan to get an education or a job. Part of the thrill in life is the plan.

How about the proud owner of the lottery ticket before the drawing? Big plans...millions of plans...Buy a house...take a long vacation...a new car? Every lottery ticket owner has plans alright.

Just make sure your plans include the plan of God. There is no better way or destination. It'll involve love, courage and risks. Sounds exciting...it is.

Ephesians 1:5 (MSG)
5 Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!)

Candidates' Weekend

At the famous Geelong Conference Centre, the Territorial Candidates' Weekend took place and culminated today with worship and commitment. Majors Len and Marney Turner, Territorial Candidates' Secretaries designed a significant opportunity for the Spirit of God to minister to us and many others in the name of Christ. Hallelujah!

We need as many Candidates as possible to do the work. We have immediate openings and are looking to God for His direction and provisions. We are claiming His grace for these days and believing for His presence in what He is asking us to do. I would be blessed to welcome a large session of Cadets going forward. Is God speaking to you?

Mark 8:34 (MSG)
34 Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how.

Sports

Occasionally, you'll hear that "sports is their religion." I understand the comment and realise it refers to the intensity and dedication some have for sports. I find sports to be something of a distraction from the serious. I can get into a game and even be known to read the sports page first sometimes before the front page.

To some, sports is life. An athlete recently welcomed to the LA area earns in the neighborhood of $1 million a week for his sport. If he's earning that much, imagine what the owners are earning. I think that represents serious business, but not a religion.

In contrast, some make sport of their religion. This is a serious problem. Let's not play games with our faith or put faith in our games. Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

1 Chronicles 16:29 (AMP)
29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name. Bring an offering and come before Him; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness and in holy array.

Excitement

Ready for action? We need to be. God is moving among us and creating opportunities right in front of us. Look up and see Him. He's looking at you and hoping for your interest. He pursues you with relentless hope and dispenses everything we need to actualise His perfect ideas for us.

The way for our perfect journey is prepared and accessible by the most powerful entity in the universe: love. It is designed with you in mind and will fill you with the most thrilling and compelling spirit you have ever known. Experience the joy. Approach the keeper of eternity and get ready for the excitement.

Mark 9:15 (MSG)
15 As soon as the people in the crowd saw Jesus, admiring excitement stirred them. They ran and greeted him.

The Government

In many places and among many services we work with the government. This relates to Federal, State and Local Government. This relationship is best defined as a partnership which is an attempt to serve the community by improving the lives and environments of individuals and families. This type of connection is common around the world.

What we need is a real partnership. This is not defined as simply being participants and is most severely reduced when it is only a contractual relationship. We serve best when our full effort is in play and when we can connect the service to a holistic approach through multiple service points. It's not just a job. It's a holy ministry, marked by the same discipline as if we were serving God.

It's possible to make this work. We do need to have mutual intentionality.

Matthew 25:35 (CEV)
35 When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me,

Trusting Jesus

As the moments fly...what'ere befall...trusting Jesus...that is all. It seems uncomplicated and not so hard. We've got no reason for pride or personal trumpet blowing. We simply trust Jesus and joy flows. We trust Jesus and hope is amplified. We trust Jesus and difficulty transforms to solutions.

Don't you see it? Don't you experience it? Those who know Christ in their souls know what I'm writing about. It's about miracles and unexplained peace of mind. It's about light where others are having trouble seeing through the dark. It's Jesus. It's always been about Jesus. It will always be about Jesus. Hallelujah!

Romans 3:21 (TLB)
21 But now God has shown us a different way to heaven --not by "being good enough" and trying to keep his laws, but by a new way (though not new, really, for the Scriptures told about it long ago). Now God says he will accept and acquit us--declare us "not guilty"--if we trust Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, by coming to Christ, no matter who we are or what we have been like.

Dialogue

In our activist SA, we often want to charge out and do something when it comes to mind. This is my nature. I have learned that dialogue helps. Even a passing reference to your intentions with another person can elicit a response that might change the nature of your action for the better. I admit that I find extended dialogue on a subject that is going no where, painful. Here's where I need to be more disciplined.

The real dialogue we need in every effort is with the Lord. Even if we do not include another person in our process, we must include Him. The Scriptures indicate that "faith without works is dead." That is radically true. I also practice that works without faith is a waste of time.

James 2:17 (MSG)
17 Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?

Office Altar

So sometime in the middle of the day when I returned to my office I found an altar there, quite unexpectedly. I believe it is one made by the one of the Brunswick Community Programmes for Connections 07. Before you know it a meeting occurred in the office and we concluded by meeting around the altar on our knees. I figure, God sends you an altar, you better use it! Hallelujah!

What has God put in your world today? Something new or unexpected? It may well be something He wants you to use for His glory. Look around. Consider the possibilities. See what God is doing in your life and what He wants to do.

Revelation 16:7 (MSG)
7 Just then I heard the Altar chime in, Yes, O God, the Sovereign-Strong! Your judgments are true and just!

Mountain View

The corps at Mountain View has existed for over 13 years. It's located in The Basin, Victoria. Captains Jeff and Kathy Vale are there with a cadre of good local officers and supporters.

We were there for the dedication of their renovations to the Mountain Valley Camp chapel which they are using to host their Sunday meetings. Today's meeting was great and the Captain preached a good sermon.

For those of you who have attended the Mountain Valley Camp at one time or another, you might want to stop in on a Sunday to see how God is still using the place. You're bound to be blessed.

Deuteronomy 32:49 (NIV)
49 "Go up into the Abarim Range to Mount Nebo in Moab, across from Jericho, and view Canaan, the land I am giving the Israelites as their own possession.

Homecoming

Often this is an expression of a reunion or even a part of an anniversary celebration. For us it's a fact. We're coming home to Australia and are on our way. Hallelujah!

Capable team members and associates have covered for us in the days of our absence. Thank you each for your faithfulness.

Ready or not, here we come. We have much to do and more people to reach for the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 5:9 (MSG)
9 But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that's what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions.

Beautiful Day

Today is a beautiful day. The weather where I am is warm and mild, the sun is shining and we are enjoying the company of loved ones. What's not beautiful?

Also today it is raining somewhere, people have lost loved ones, jobs terminated, illnesses have been discovered and worse. Some days are better than other days. It depends upon our perspective and our circumstances.

I believe in not accepting the 'fate de jour'. That is, we have much to do with the beauty of the day. Some days will be rotten, no doubt, but not because God has abandoned us. His love is constant throughout the good and the not so good. Trust Him and know Him to be true.

Ecclesiastes 7:14 (MSG)
14 On a good day, enjoy yourself; On a bad day, examine your conscience. God arranges for both kinds of days So that we won't take anything for granted.

Right Fit

You know the expression, "It fits like a glove." I've put on a few gloves that didn't fit so well...and while I'm on the subject, what about the glove box in your car? Have you ever put your gloves in there? I did...once...just to say it was finally a glove box. Now keep me straight, a boot is a trunk and a bonnet is a hood. Do we also have another name for the glove box?

Getting back to the right fit, we spend a good part of our lives trying to fit in. Perhaps we find ourselves in a new environment or with a new group of people, we most often do our best to fit. When we come to the conclusion that we aren't the right fit, we often move on.

As believers, we do not fit in this world. God's kingdom is far different than this world and that's where we belong. I suggest we relax on trying to fit in this world and expend our energies shaping up for the Kingdom of God.

1 Thessalonians 5:8 (NIV)
8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.

Hospitality

Understood as a spiritual gift, hospitality is the kind of Christian grace that can quiet the storm in any situation and comfort the unrest in any soul. Just think about the people you know who minister in the name of Jesus in this profound manner. They're people you like to be near and have as friends.

It is in the giving that the person with hospitality finds satisfaction. This is an approach that resembles our giving Lord, who indiscriminately offers Himself for our peace and joy. Let those who are gifted in this way know that we are grateful for them. Let those of us who are not so gifted, make every attempt to be this way.

3 John 1:5 (MSG)
5 Dear friend, when you extend hospitality to Christian brothers and sisters, even when they are strangers, you make the faith visible.

Changes

Every day and all year long we're confronted with changes. Changes that are imposed upon us and changes that we determine are necessary. The public media news alone points to changes in our lives and for many people, it can become onerous.

If we're going to be alive, there is a present reality of change. How we deal with it or even use it will speak to our character and resilience. I do think it's coming faster these days. Is it that I am going slower? I certainly don't want to admit to it.

So as your day begins, expect the changes and remember that God's love doesn't change. Hallelujah!

Daniel 2:21 (MSG)
21 He changes the seasons and guides history, He raises up kings and also brings them down, he provides both intelligence and discernment,

Gathering

In the gathering of good friends there are tremendous blessings. Better than gathering your thoughts or gathering your belongings, getting together with your friends creates new memories and sustains you in your journey. In difficulty or consternation, gather together with your friends. Their love and concern will bring healing to your soul and hope to your heart.

Now if the friends are Jesus-lovers, all the better. Might I add, make sure your friends are believers, one way or the other. Their connection to the Source of life will bring His presence into the relationship and nourish you in the process.

Thank you, Lord for our friends. May our friendships bring joy to your heart.

Acts 20:2 (MSG)
2 Traveling through the country, passing from one gathering to another, he gave constant encouragement, lifting their spirits and charging them with fresh hope.

Bad Food

Speaking of going to restaurants, have you ever had a bad experience in a restaurant where there's been a little extra in the food? How about a cockroach in your iced tea? What did the restaurant do as a result? Did they offer to replace the drink or maybe pay for the meal? I believe I know what a good restaurant would do.

I tend to object when I hear a person say they were leaving a church or a corps fellowship because they were not being fed. Down deep I seem to understand that only babies need fed. Adults feed themselves. But just for a moment think about the spiritual meal. (There are scriptural references that would support such a concept.) If we recognised that a part of it was bad or spoiled by something that didn't belong, what would you do? Perhaps it depends upon the specific problem.

Let's do everything we can to make certain the spiritual experience isn't spoiled by something we have or have not done.

James 1:21 (MSG)
21 So throw all spoiled virtue and cancerous evil in the garbage. In simple humility, let our gardener, God, landscape you with the Word, making a salvation-garden of your life.

Presentation

When you went to a good restaurant recently, did you notice that the main course was carefully placed on the plate? How about a really good website? Often, when we find one that we really like, it's look is important to our assessment.

Now we draw together this reality of life and consider our witness as a regular course of who we are. Are we presentable? Oh, you say it depends upon our audience. Sure. I can see that. Now, are you presentable? The success might be found in the receptivity.

My point is that we cannot just leave our witness up to chance when God has given us the good sense to sort out the audience and make necessary adjustments. Does this make us less than authentic? I think not. It makes us effective.

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." Colossians 3:17 KJV

Alone

While I enjoy a crowd, there are moments where a person simply likes to be alone. You can sort things out. You can think things through. You can stop to smell the roses. It's not altogether bad.

There are many people who are too alone. The word would be lonely. In these cases, they are starving for some substantive connection with someone, preferably who gives respect and cares. They may be the elderly and they may not. They might even be in the middle of a crowd and still suffer from loneliness. Look around and save someone from their loneliness. It won't cost you much.

All this is critical, but remember especially that the Lord of the universe is with you at every moment. When you know Him as Saviour of your life, Jesus will never leave you alone. Hallelujah!

"I will not leave you nor forsake you." Joshua 1: 8 NKJV

Phone Home

Do you remember the line in the movie, E.T., where the creature says, "E.T. phone home"? He was trying to connect with home to arrange his ride from Earth to home. In the days of mobile phones, we're phoning home on a regular basis.

How about the old song, "Jesus on the line," where the singer relates to a connection with Jesus on the telephone. It was in the days that people made their phone calls through operators and the caller was trying to 'get Jesus on the line.'

If we were to use today's technology, we would put Him on speed dial and set up a special ring tone to recognise when He was calling. Which one would you use?

No matter your mobile phone carrier, He wants you to be in touch with Him. Now's a good time to phone home.

"Jesus answered and said to him, 'If anyone loves Me, he will keep my word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.'" John 14: 23 NKJV

Traveling Light

I seem to recall a book entitled "Traveling Light." It is very much about not carrying excessive baggage in life and makes a valuable point in the process. Often we find ourselves carrying burdens and preferences that only weigh us down in the pursuit of serving God. These extra bags seem essential to us and will ultimately begin to define us.

Have you heard the expression, "bag lady?" It describes a person who carries her every possession whilst living on the street. She chooses to keep her possessions close to her by necessity. Without disparaging people who have made this choice in life, I do want to suggest that God wants us to ultimately travel light by depending upon Him and not upon the things we hold onto. Perhaps the church could help us by charging excess baggage fees like the airport when we've exceeded a reasonable limit.

"Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves. Carry neither money bag, sack, nor sandals;" Luke 10: 3-4 NKJV

Showers of blessings

I read an article in The Age today that said the winter rains are making a difference in the crops this year and we may be off to a good start. In actual terms, they were estimating an increase in production of more than 80% over last year. This is a blessing from God. As one who has been praying for drought relief, I am grateful to Him.

As the song suggests, there are showers of blessings for us all. Of course our relationship with Him isn't about our prosperity, but I am grateful for every good gift He gives. Part of our joy is to recognise the gifts He gives.

In our first corps appointment, it was common for a person to start their testimony with an expression like, "I thank God for waking me up this morning in my right mind." They were genuine expressions (which I suppose some of us couldn't make), and they were right. He gives us our multi-faceted life and we can celebrate every such blessing.

Deuteronomy 32:2 (MSG)
2 My teaching, let it fall like a gentle rain, my words arrive like morning dew, Like a sprinkling rain on new grass, like spring showers on the garden.

Books

Do you have a few favourite books? In addition to the Bible, I value a few of my books enough to keep them as long as I can. Sometimes I give them away, but will replace them as well.

In them I have become friends with authors who will never know my name. They have spoken to my soul, my thoughts, my encouragement, my information...etc... I am a different person because of their discipline to publish their work and I am grateful.

I believe we have numerous gifted authors in our territory who need to fan the flame of their gifting by writing and being formally published. God wants to speak to us through them. Get working...we're back in the publishing business.

2 Corinthians 3:3 (MSG)
3 Christ himself wrote it—not with ink, but with God's living Spirit; not chiseled into stone, but carved into human lives—and we publish it.

Fathers' Day - USA

It's been great to be with family on Fathers' Day. At home in Australia, we celebrate it at a different time of the year. I was greeted by the grandson, who said, "Happy Mothers' Day Poppa!" Having just gone through Mothers' Day, it was the best this two year old could muster.

I'm grateful that my father was the kind of man that made God's Fatherhood good and believable. He celebrated a close relationship with Christ and capably showed me the way. My sons too and our new family all make me proud to be a father. They let me think they need me and value our relationship. I choose to believe them.

All of this comes from the Father of all creation through the Lord Jesus. I will always be grateful. Whether you're in the USA or elsewhere, I commend the absolute Fatherhood of God to you. He loves you more than you know.

Psalms 2:7 (NIV)
7 I will proclaim the decree of the LORD: He said to me, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father.

Beginnings

I know a certain two year old boy who cherishes the start of every day. He sees the morning through fresh eyes and anticipates the day as the best one to live. This is such a lesson to me and perhaps to all of us. I don't ever want to forget what Jesus has done for us and carry His proven love with me daily. He is precisely the source of our hope that allows us to value the freshness of each day.

Start again with me in the morning and look at the day with fresh hope and excitement, no matter what stains or memories that challenge such perspectives and constructive anticipation. Let your schedule, your relationships, your commitments, all your endeavors be exposed to the light of God. If someone or something spoils your approach, you can always begin again tomorrow.

Ezekiel 39:8 (MSG)
8 "It's coming! Yes, it will happen! This is the day I've been telling you about.

Court and Strickland Sightings

There have been rumours of sightings of Captains Danielle Strickland and Stephen Court. I saw them with my own eyes. They didn't know I was looking and I don’t think it mattered to them that I was watching. Across the great Hershey Giant Center, in the upper decks, no less, there they were with arms waving, praising the Lord and celebrating His presence. I could feel it from directly across this great arena.

Word has it that they are so close to coming to Australia that the enemy is significantly disturbed. His attempts to keep them out of the country have been thwarted by the victory of Jesus on the cross of Calvary. Hallelujah!

Ready or not, here they come (with their son as well – name not given of a child as is my discipline on the net). Pray for them. Ready yourself for the influence of God through them. So am I.

2 Samuel 2:14 (MSG)
14 Abner challenged Joab, "Put up your best fighters. Let's see them do their stuff." Joab said, "Good! Let them go at it!"
a rich harvest of exiles gathered in from the nations!

Authenticity

If there's a city I want to live in, it's authenticity. Integrity and truth are values and quality characteristics of the best people I know. These are people we trust and depend upon. Who comes to your mind?

I can think of many people who have shared this quality. I am most grateful to them for showing me how to be and what it takes to be authentic. It's best lived through the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the authentic one. He is the one who personifies integrity. We need to be like Him and would do well to start with authenticity.

Philippians 4:8 (MSG)
8 Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.

Order of the Founder

The General conferred the Order of the Founder upon Colonel Henry Gariepy this past week. He's a great man of God who has served the Lord faithfully in active and now retired officership. He's written many books and has become a literary giant in TSA. Look on your bookshelf or that of the corps library, you're likely to find one of his books there.

I've known him my whole life. He was a friend of my father. They were good fishin' buddies. In our first corps appointment, He and Marjorie, his wife were soldiers. It was a challenge to me, but they did all they could to support us and encourage us.

You can give the Lord a word of gratitude for Colonel Gariepy. I do.

Philippians 1:3 (NIV)
3 I thank my God every time I remember you.

New Captains

The General commissioned Thirty-eight new Captains today in Hershey, Pennsylvania. We were there to witness this advance in the Kingdom. They were appointed all over the USA Eastern Territory and each received their new addresses for service with joy. One has already been changed within hours of the announcement.

Please understand this personal note. Two of the new Captains commissioned have the surname Knaggs. Our oldest son and his great wife, Jason and Leslie have successfully completed their studies and training and join the ranks of the called, the covenanted, and the commissioned few known as officers in TSA. This is a great day. God be glorified!

The call for officership in the meeting exceeded 140 on the platform. Wow! Bring it on, Lord!

1 Timothy 1:12 (NIV)
12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.

Jim Cymbala

Pastor Jim Cymbala spoke to TSA on Friday night and gave us a prophetic word. It is found in the scripture verse following this post and he speaks to us to remember our foundations. I wish he were coming to Connections in November. This is precisely where we are coming from and where we are going. Who are these Salvos? Who are we today?

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers also participated. It was glorious and we were blessed to be in His presence. Hallelujah!

The Saturday meetings were extraordinary as well. There was dancing, singing, praying and praising in many forms. It is a joy to be present.

Isaiah 51:1 (NIV)
1 "Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the LORD: Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn;

New Love

This is the title of the General's book and the subject of his presentation today. I've been impressed with the book since I read it upon publishing a year or two ago. It's a very good read.

His session was furthermore illuminating. His fresh delivery and competent style compliment the subject matter for all listeners. We do need to restate our understanding of holiness in terms in which people understand...most likely by our lifestyle.

1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)
15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;

MIA

Generally, the term MIA means Missing in Action. That's kind of where we are. We've been traveling and find ourselves in Hershey, PA at the Kaleidoscope Mission Congress of the USA Eastern Territory. We're actually on duty with some responsibilities and are enjoying the chance to be with family and all. The General is speaking in the meetings and is spot on as usual.

Please pray for us and them all in these days. Quite a crowd has gathered and it is an amazing opportunity to glorify God.

Psalms 100:4 (NIV)
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

The Look

Fashion, style, and the look take over many people on a regular basis. We tend to communicate signals convincingly to other people by our look. Millions of dollars are spent each day around the world on this very matter.

I suppose there is value in how we look. Certain jobs and opportunities would not be available to us if our 'look' was wrong. I remember a business interviewer who swore by the socks men wore in their suits for work. He would simply say that if they missed these small details, then they weren't a high enough standard for the company.

What are we communicating? What do we intend to communicate by our look? Does it resemble the 'look' of Jesus?

1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

Enjoying Worship

When we worship the Lord, we do so for Him to enjoy and when we worship the Lord right, we enjoy it too. Don't you just love the Lord? Singing His praises, praying with expectation, listening to His Word for today are all aspects of worship that are great for all of us. The worship band leads and you hear a particular guitar rift or a unique rhythm set. That just gets me going. The brass play some inspiring arrangement or the songsters display harmonic balance to the delight of my senses and to the delight of God.

This is a beautiful connection for us all. The corps we attended today was all that. Hallelujah! We're blessed. Get to the Army for worship. Contribute to the worship and enjoy the presence of God in all that takes place.

Psalms 29:2 (NIV)
2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.

Families

When you're in a good family, there's nothing better. You can feel their love when you're together and the sharing is rich, forgiving and healing. I know of no better comfort than to be with family at any time of the day.

Now this can be true whether you're related by birth or not. God establishes networks of people that can become families all around us. There are some work environments where people would say it resembles a family and certainly a good church environment would be that as well.

God provides for us even if our natural family isn't quite where we find our belonging or if they are not near for a season. Bless the Lord.

Isaiah 58:7 (MSG)
7 What I'm interested in seeing you do is: sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families.

Changing Seasons

So we have entered into Winter in Australia. We're expecting cooler weather and some rain. This in itself is a perfect reason for a change. We thank God for the precipitation and treasure how it will nourish the soil and ourselves. I'm amazed how quickly the ground turns the moisture into growth. Fields that were dry and sunburnt almost instantly have become green. It almost makes us forget about the drought that still has a hold on us.

The balance of life is wonderfully made up of these different seasons. I'm not really writing about the weather here. I'm thinking about the different phases of our lives that God gives us to enjoy and prove His righteousness. We can either fight the changes, or go with the flow and enjoy the stream in the name of God.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)
1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

Connections 2007 update

Wow! The Connections 2007 plan is improving every day. The planning committee is cookin' and the excitement is raising. Remember? It's a gathering in November (23-25) for everyone from soldiers to employees to volunteers to people in the community. We are planning to connect with God, connect with each other and connect with the community.

I'm expecting a fresh engagement with the Holy Spirit in the name of Christ and a fresh understanding of just who these Salvos are. Think you know already? Maybe so, but there will be no doubt in your mind at Connections. Hallelujah!

Pray for this and for all who will be influenced. God be glorified!

John 15:4 (CEV)
4 Stay joined to me, and I will stay joined to you. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit unless it stays joined to the vine, you cannot produce fruit unless you stay joined to me.

Youth Worship Meeting

At Box Hill, the 6 p.m. Sunday meeting is a youth worship meeting. In all likelihood, they have a name for it and I just don't know what it is. We did go there, though on Pentecost Sunday and had a blast. The music was very good (a new generation) and the fellowship in the worship was exciting. Good crowd too.

We learned more about Pentecost and its place in the pre-church, the beginning of Church and the church today. I'm always looking for a mighty, earth shaking movement of the Holy Spirit. I wouldn't mind even more evidence of the presence of God. There was plenty of evidence in that meeting as we were blessed.

Can we earnestly and openly seek the grace of God in large measure? He desires to fill us and keep us fully connected to Him.

Acts 2:1 (NIV)
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.

Box Hill Korean Congregation

We were graciously received at the Box Hill Korean Congregation this past Sunday morning. Captains Hwang and Kim received us graciously and provided translators for us. They really did a good job.

The music was great and so was the preaching. This is a beautiful place for those who speak Korean to worship the Lord. Carolyn and I, both, sensed the Spirit of God in all that took place. Hallelujah!

Acts 2:44 (NIV)
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.

The Proms

Now this is a wild idea. Plan a night of nationalistic flash, invite enough people that it takes two separate meetings and charge $10.00 per person. There was Irish dancing, Scottish bag pipes and a massed band, first in formal attire and then in athletic wear. Tell some jokes and let the crowd sing along once in a while. Decorate the house with the Union Jack and pass out a bunch for people to wave indiscriminately. And you thought Waverley Temple was notoriously traditional.

A lot of people were comfortable in the house that day, including us. They seemed like such normal and fun people there. I wouldn't be surprised if some people came back to see how they worship God. They get a high rating for a creative event that drew many different people inside where they found friendly people in the name of Christ. Not bad at all.

Luke 15:24 (NLT)
24 for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.' So the party began.

Pentecost Sunday

Acts 1:8 (NIV)
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Prayer Drive

The Northern Victoria Division organised a Prayer Drive today. Their advertisement read, " Support rural Victoria with a country drive, meet with other Christians to pray for rain and families affected by drought, spend some money in a rural town and support the local economy by buying coffee and food along the way." So we did.

We visited Marong, Charlton, Donald, and St. Arnaud. A prayer CD was provided to focus on the Lord on the drive and in each location, we met for prayer, received a brochure for a prayer plan, and walked the streets in prayer. Since we came from Melbourne, we actually drove over 600 kilometers in the process. Many of the people we spoke with were grateful for the support.

This was a blessed idea that drove home our hope in prayer and confidence in God.

Mark 9:1 (MSG)
1 Then he drove it home by saying, "This isn't pie in the sky by and by. Some of you who are standing here are going to see it happen, see the kingdom of God arrive in full force."

It takes all kinds...

Our Army is loaded will all kinds of people. We need every one of them. We need you. There is a place for all who love the Lord and desire to serve Him and there is a place for those who don't. The Kingdom of God is open. Hallelujah!

Now we need to be open as well. We need to be open to all people, whether they like us or not. They can even say some pretty rough things or treat us poorly. We still need to be open.

We need to be open to God...open to His love and to His forgiveness...open to his commands and open to His discipline...open to His people.

The sign on the door of our heart needs to be "open."

Revelation 3:8 (CEV)
8 I know everything you have done. And I have placed before you an open door that no one can close. You were not very strong, but you obeyed my message and did not deny that you are my followers.

Getting it right

So you're working on a project of any sort. Hang in there until you get it right. Sometimes it's painful to keep working on the project and you want to just move on to another project, or even, one that is more interesting. Don't give up.

Knots generally require patience and effort. Is it too easy to say they don't untie themselves? The value of a right solution over a solution is significant and worth the extra effort. Some projects take a long time. Others require the help of other people.

Getting it right has to do with integrity, a valuable quality and a dependable asset to our lives. Jesus did it right, painful and horrible as it was. We can be glad He did.

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Commissioned for life

Service in the ministry of God is a delight of life. God enables us to experience the fullness of his love in this way. Our duties in His name facilitate a joy beyond the wildest imagination of those who don't know Him. In this way we celebrate life as it was intended. Hallelujah!

The magnitude of service is not the point. Even the most menial job in the authentic name of Christ will bring satisfaction before Him. Our role in the body of Christ is measured by the grace of God. He's the same who instills the fulfillment. Ready...Set...Go!

Colossians 3:17 (NIV)
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Praying

Prayer is a great place to live. I wish we could simply appoint people to pray. It would be the most important appointment of every soldier and the most delightful. Even when we're praying through difficulties, there is the presence of God. There is the life-giving flow of love to the extreme. Hallelujah!

Come with me on a journey of prayer and dependence upon God, whose capacity is unlimited and whose concern is unconditional. He desires to be the focus of our hearts so that we would be fulfilled in glorifying Him. Yes!

Let us pray.

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Vision

"Where there is no vision, the people perish:" Feel like you're fading? Things in your life going the wrong way? Are you having difficulty seeing the obvious? These are questions that people have when there is diminished vision. You know I'm not speaking about eyesight, but about a perspective on what's coming and what needs to be.

First, take a look in the Word of God, then speak with Him and listen to Him. His purposes for you need not be a mystery. There can be clarity...and focus...and direction. The Master said, "I am the way, the truth and the life..." Can you see? We learn that, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This makes for the real thing...a relationship that brings life. The vision, then, is in Christ. Hallelujah!

Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

RSA Door Knock Campaign

Many doors in Australia are meeting Salvos and responding with generosity. I find it quite extraordinary that so many people trust us. There may or may not be an experience with the Salvos in their history. There is simply a faith in who we are and what we do. Hallelujah...and thank you. We will make every effort to put your donation and confidence to best use in the name of God.

Our confidence in God is what drives us to what we do and is what enables us to attempt to reach the heights and depths of service. Without the love and provision of God, our service would fall short of our hopes and expectations. So our faith in God and His attention to our efforts makes success out of what we are and do. Hallelujah!

John 14:1 (NIV)
1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." (Jesus)

Every soldier needed

I am here to announce that every soldier in The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory has the opportunity to witness boldly to the saving grace of the Son of God. Are you waiting for orders to do something? Here are your orders: Be holy...and do something! Waiting for permission? You have the permission you need to start something that would honour God. If it works to His glory, we'll make it official and call it The Salvation Army.

Can we understand that God's hope for us is unlimited. Much of the limitation is in our minds and ultimately our feet...which become frozen for fear of failure and any number of excuses. Trust God and give it a go. Don't hold back now when God needs you so critically. Hallelujah!

Isaiah 43:19 (MSG)
19 Be alert, be present. I'm about to do something brand-new. It's bursting out! Don't you see it? There it is! I'm making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands.

Docklands

The docklands of Melbourne is an interesting place to visit. There are restaurants galore and a few shops. Plenty of people have condos and flats in the area. Having been there before, we went that way tonight for a good experience with friends.

It's in these moments and in these places where the world seems detached from the pressures of life that I wonder how it is that we can reach these for Christ. They are consumed with the sweet life and are enjoying it fully. How do we get through in these environments to tell them of Jesus?

Acts 21:5 (MSG)
5 When our time was up, they escorted us out of the city to the docks. Everyone came along—men, women, children. They made a farewell party of the occasion! We all kneeled together on the beach and prayed.

Healing

"Thou shalt call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from heir sins." This is what the angel said to Joseph in expectation of the birth of Jesus to Mary. The word 'save' in this text can also be rendered, 'healed.'

Don't we need healing today? Many are sick in their life's journey and in need of wholeness. Jesus is still available for such healing in our lives. Look to Him for His grace and salvation. Hallelujah!

Matthew 1:21 (MSG)
21 She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—'God saves'—because he will save his people from their sins."

MSS Twenty

Twenty years ago some very good people had a very good idea and put together some very good musicians to form the Melbourne Staff Songsters. We celebrated this moment with them and many of those who have belonged over the years. They even let Carolyn and me sing with them through the open rehearsal. They didn't invite us to come back next week for their regular rehearsal.

For twenty years they have been producing and presenting music in terms that God would value and people would be inspired. Their greatest moments would have included every opportunity they had to draw people to Christ. Whether they were drawn closer as members, concert goers, Salvos or not, the facilitation of a persons deepening relationship with Christ has been advanced. Hallelujah!

We were proud to sing with them and we are proud of them. God is too.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)
17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

Concertina Music

We were a part of a special presentation this week at THQ when the family of Lt. Commissioner John Blake donated his concertina and case to our museum. Blake was a war hero and chaplain in the Australian Army in World War II. His service in the military was a credit to his faith as was his commensurate service as a Salvation Army officer.

He traveled well with his concertina with which he praised the Lord at a moment's notice to the delight of his company of friends. On this day we sang to the music of three concertina musicians and it was heart warming. Stop by the museum on Bourke Street and check out the exhibit.

Psalms 95:1 (NIV)
1 Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.

Companion Clubs

There is much to be learned and experienced in the Companion Clubs. Carolyn and I were at an Eastern Victoria meeting of the Companion Club leaders in the division today. Each of them are engaging and fully committed to their mission. The Companion Clubs are programmes for those over fifty years of age. That includes me.

For those reaching retirement ages, know that you are still essential in the Army of today. Your gifts, abilities and availability are all incredibly important to us as we move forward to win the world for Christ. Thank you for your faithfulness to this day and for your faithfulness going forward. Hallelujah!

Philippians 1:25 (MSG)
25 So I plan to be around awhile, companion to you as your growth and joy in this life of trusting God continues.

Mothers' Day in Warragul, Victoria

By now you can tell we journeyed a little east in the Eastern Victoria Division to get to the Warragul Corps. As the photo reveals, there was a little fog in the neighborhood, but that all left when the meeting started. It was clear that they came to worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness and that they are very grateful to Him for their mothers.

This corps, under the leadership of Captains Kirsten and Warren Elliott, is an exceptional find in a world that needs to find Christ as Lord. When you worship here, you will sense the presence of God and the warmth of His people. Hallelujah!

Proverbs 31:31 (NIV)
31 Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Adelaide, South Australia

We visited the Towards Independence and Bridge Programmes this week. They have an array of services that are professional and personal. People are being supported and helped in the process of meeting our staff and being exposed to the hope of God. He is at work through these programmes and is sending His children there to learn of His compassion through regular people with extraordinary capacity for hope.

The work we do is very much "life and death." With this understanding, we cannot miss the opportunities to convey God's love in such convincing ways. Hallelujah!

2 Timothy 4:2 (MSG)
2 so proclaim the Message with intensity; keep on your watch. Challenge, warn, and urge your people. Don't ever quit. Just keep it simple.

AmCham

The American Chamber of Commerce of Australia had a meeting today in Adelaide. Prof. Graham Hubbard, author of the book "The First XI - Winning Organisations in Australia", Mr. Les Wozniczka, CEO of Futuris and I were on a business panel discussion led by Mr. Rob Kelvin of Channel 9 TV in Adelaide.

There was a high regard for the Salvos in the room. They have seen the ministry of TSA through the years and they value what they have seen. What they have really valued is the light of God through His children. The value of what we are known for is the grace of God. The honour is His.

Revelation 7:12 (CEV)
12 and said, "Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanks, honor, power, and strength belong to our God forever and ever! Amen!"

ANZ Bank

We met today with some retired officers of the ANZ Bank. They are a warm and friendly group of people with their employment in ANZ Bank as their major point of commonality. They actually have much more in common. Many of them worked there for over 40 years. That speaks of dedication, personal satisfaction, expertise, consistency and more. This speaks highly of ANZ Bank.

Another matter they have in common is respect and support for the Salvation Army. This part is a natural blessing for me. They received us well and have been generous to help with our Red Shield Appeal. Thank you friends for your support and encouragement. God bless you.

Acts 2:44 (NIV)
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.

ABC Radio

The extraordinary media personality, John Cleary, gave us a few moments of great respect today in the recording of a radio interview for national radio. It will be aired Sunday night at 11 PM. He is gracious, brilliant and compelling. No wonder he is highly respected and in demand. He's a good Salvo.

I believe there is room for us on the air waves. Be it television or radio, we have the best message in the world to communicate to the most people before the return of Christ. We do have some programs on the air at the moment. Should we be more prominent? Help us Lord to see the way to go in this.

Mark 16:15 (NIV)
15 He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.

Growing Healthy Corps

Carolyn spoke tonight about spiritual leadership in TSA. If I must say so myself, she did a great job. The audience was a Super Cluster of corps and divisional leaders in the territory. They've been meeting under the consultancy of Dr. Paul Borden.

God is indeed doing a great thing among these corps and their leaders. You could sense their eagerness and earnestness in the room. Tomorrow we meet with them again where I will have an opportunity to present the Word of God to them. I'm counting on Him and I'm counting on them.

1 John 4:7 (NIV)
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

Red Shield Appeal

Tomorrow we launch the annual Red Shield Appeal with the hope that we will attract enough attention for the community to understand that "We're all in this together." I wish I could report that the needs of people have decreased and that TSA is needed less than ever before. It is true for many we have helped through the year. Their needs have decreased, but the reality remains that even more people have critical basic needs.

In the name of God we intend to press on to serve Him by serving people. Not unlike the love of God, we hope to help people unconditionally and uncompromisingly. We do so in His strength and by the resources He provides from the hearts of many people. We're trusting that Australians of all walks of life will join us in this cause. "We're all in this together," and together we will make a huge difference in the lives of Australians.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (MSG)
11 So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.

Soup, Soap and Salvation in the 21st Century

This is the well chosen theme of the Social Programme Conference being held at the Geelong Conference Centre. We enjoyed meeting with the delegates tonight for the Keynote Meeting. The cast of presenters for the conference is quite impressive as are their subjects. I'm praying that each one gives their best for the advancement of our good work.

The delegates include many of the leaders of our social programmes and represent a formidable force for good in the world. We can't get it all done without them. They work hard and efficiently. They are all Salvos whether they attend a corps on Sunday or not.

The leader is one Major Dr. Graeme Rigley. He's the Territorial Social Programme Secretary and he's great. We are fortunate to have him in the job.

Matthew 25:40 (MSG)
40 Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'

Cinco de Mayo

In English, 5th of May. Cinco de Mayo is a national, but not federal, holiday in Mexico. It commemorates the victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin over the French occupational forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Although the Mexican army was eventually defeated, the "Batalla de Puebla" came to represent a symbol of Mexican unity and patriotism. With this victory, Mexico demonstrated to the world that they were willing to defend themselves against any foreign intervention, especially those from imperialist states bent on world conquest.

In these terms, we should join our brothers and sisters in their celebration. Freedom is a precious reality, generally best understood when it doesn't exist. God's plan is for all to be free, no matter what oppression is attempting to control us. Look to Him today for this miracle.

John 8:36 (NIV)
36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Alice in Wonderland

Cheers to Salvos Stephanie Walden, Ben Waterworth and Jake Waterworth for their stunning performances in the East Doncaster Secondary College production of Alice in Wonderland. We were among the grateful audience who attended and enjoyed every minute of it.

One of my favourite moments in the story is when the cheshire cat is approached by Alice at a crossroads and she asks for directions because she's lost. The cat responds by asking where she wants to go. Being so disoriented by Wonderland, she says she doesn't know where she wants to go. The cat responds, "then it doesn't matter which way you go."

I know you're seeing the spiritual parallel. Here's the answer...

John 14:6 (TLB)
6 Jesus told him, "I am the Way--yes, and the Truth and the Life. No one can get to the Father except by means of me.

Western Victoria Division

Each year we take time to visit each divisional headquarters for what is known as a divisional review. They're always worthwhile and especially when the preparations have been meticulous and the year under review has been healthy.

That's what we've found here under the leadership of Majors Jenny and Peter Walker. Besides being holy and engaging people themselves, the division reveals the provision and blessings of God. The officers, employees, volunteers, soldiers and adherents of this division have done well. God's work is in good hands. Hallelujah!

1 Samuel 12:7 (MSG)
7 Take your stand before him now as I review your case before God in the light of all the righteous ways in which God has worked with you and your ancestors.

Body of Christ

When we read 'where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them,' we know that Jesus is giving a promise to be present. Often the quote is used when there is a small crowd and it renews our confidence in the presence of Jesus. This is good.

I'm beginning to see it more than a promise to a small crowd. I'm seeing it as a hope of Jesus that we might get together more often...in His name.

What's more, I'm also seeing it as not limited to individuals, but appropriate for organisations, denominations...partnerships. Again...a hope of Jesus for us to connect in His name. Hallelujah!

John 17:21 (NIV)
21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

Building the Kingdom

So we're convinced that God wants us to build His Kingdom. How does this happen? Oh sure, one person at a time...relationships. If our witness is strong enough, they will get it without us even trying...think so? People don't really come to the Lord by our holy countenance. It actually takes some effort on our part.

We don't do the saving, but we are instrumental in leading others to God's love...and it doesn't happen by accident or mere contact. God does the saving through our concerted efforts to draw people to His love.

Waiting for that family member or that convenience store clerk to find the Lord? It's probably not going to happen if we don't specifically ask them to do so. Often they say something besides yes, but when they do say yes, the party begins in heaven and the fountain of abundant life swells in your soul. Hallelujah!

Acts 26:16 (MSG)
16 But now, up on your feet—I have a job for you. I've handpicked you to be a servant and witness to what's happened today, and to what I am going to show you.

Home Sweet Home

I read a quote from Lt. Colonel Sue Swanson recently, who said something like, "I have a home and TSA gives me a quarters to put it in." Her comment shows a healthy understanding of the matter of home. Doesn't it break your heart that so many people are homeless? It's further difficult to consider the youth and children who are homeless in our world...and in our neighborhood. I do mean to distinguish between residences and home.

Can we join efforts to make people feel at home when they come to the Army? ...or when we meet them where ever? The home part is deeper than the house. Homelessness on these terms is wider than we normally consider. Home is where you belong. Home is where you feel comfortable and safe. Sounds like the arms of Jesus.

Revelation 21:3 (MSG)
3 I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God.

Moonah, Tasmania

Our visit to Moonah, Tasmania was terrific, today. Majors Allan and Lorraine Daddow, Divisional Leaders were with us and supported the meeting in good form. Corps Officers, Captains Stephen and Linda Miller have a beautiful spirit and a great corps in which to minister.

On this day we honoured the Lord for His faithfulness to Arthur Main who celebrated his 90th birthday this weekend. He was given a special recognition in the Sunday meeting. He witnessed to the provision of God and celebrated his long life of service in TSA. Much of his family was present and many of them came from Western Australia. He was really happy to have them all there.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 (MSG)
24 The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he'll do it!

Facebook

The Facebook phenomenon continues. Are you on? How many friends do you have listed? How many groups are you in? I'm in and I just plain don't know the answers to my own questions. It is a fascinating opportunity and one that is growing.

As it turns out, face is very important. There are many cultures where saving face is primary. Losing face is disgrace and that is almost unlivable for them.

Now consider that we are all made in the image of God. That tells me our face is one of love and understanding and holiness. With this understanding, we can face just about anything and not lose. It's in the book.

1 John 5:9 (MSG)
9 If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.

Main Thing cont'd

(please review previous post with comments)

I love Sunday meetings. It's where much of my spiritual formation was supported and many other people these days too. Many of us prepare for Sunday with more intentionality than other days of the week. Sunday meetings we will always have and value.

The dialogue about the other days of the week is not in contradistinction to Sunday. We need to give it great value, and we should give the other six days value as well. The measurement of Sunday fellowships and meetings does give an indicator of just that. Discerning people will know that.

Present culture does not see Sunday the same way past culture did. We must be available to do our best work every day. Please Lord, Let us see your way.

Hebrews 10:25 (NIV)
25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Mainly Music

On a visit to Moonee Ponds today, we were treated to a Mainly Music session, conducted by one of the corps officers, Lieutenant Cynthia Stelling. About 12 mothers with their children were there, enjoying the ministry and having a lot of fun. This New Zealand based programme is in wide use in the territory. Last year there were 80,000 in attendance throughout the territory.

Part of the dialogue about the programme revealed a hope that somehow we might get these families to attend on Sunday as well. It's here I simply want to ask why? They already come on a Thursday. Isn't that a good day to draw them to Christ and into the fellowship? Should we not go with what God is honoring and perhaps rethink our ministry patterns?

I believe Lieutenants Don and Cynthia Stelling are going about this the right way and would suggest that the 80,000 in our territory is a wonderful gift of God to extend His kingdom.

Mark 10:14 (CEV)
14 When Jesus saw this, he became angry and said, "Let the children come to me! Don't try to stop them. People who are like these little children belong to the kingdom of God.

Anzac Day

On this day in 1915, a group of volunteer Australian and New Zealand soldiers found themselves wading ashore before dawn at a small beach on the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey. Many of these men were only teenagers, some as young as 16. All were anxious to prove their courage and national identity. Over the eight months following the landing, those young ANZACs underwent a 'trial by ordeal'. In total 36,000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers were killed or wounded at Gallipoli.

Carolyn and I proudly marched with the MSB in the Anzac Parade in Melbourne. We did so to show respect for the Anzacs and to embrace this significant Australian day. By the way, the MSB marches very well. I'm told they looked good on TV too.

Tonight we joined with the Red Shield Sub-Branch R.S.L. "Anzac Salute" at the Inala Village Chapel. The Classic Brass were terrific from Box Hill Corps and the leaders and members of the Red Shield unit made the event worthwhile.

John 15:13 (NIV)
13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Woman Leaders in TSA

We have long celebrated the role of women in TSA. The 'Army' today is as strong as it is, in large measure, due to the leadership of women in the ranks. We have, however, been slack concerning women in administrative leadership. Women are grossly under represented in our leader ranks and we must do something about it.

Let me be clear. We have had and do have significant female leaders. Corps leadership represents significant leadership as do chaplains and other responsibilities. I believe that every officer role is a leader role and these are significant. I am concerned just now about administrative leaders. Are there married couples in our ranks that would manage well if the wife had a more dominant role in leadership then the husband? God is working in us on this subject. This is good.

Acts 2:18 (NIV)
18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.

Officers

Calling all Salvos! Search your heart to see if God is calling you to a life of challenge, purpose, holiness and service. Test God's plan for you by seeking to ascertain the feasibility of your future as an officer in TSA.

How about this: We have appointments that need to be filled now. Is this something you might do?

Or: Too many people are dying and going to hell. Would you help us stop the losses?

Perhaps: The need is the call.

Let me just say. If you even think it may be God's idea for you to serve in this way, step forward and celebrate your faith.

Mark 10:21 (MSG)
21 Jesus looked him hard in the eye—and loved him! He said, "There's one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. All your wealth will then be heavenly wealth. And come follow me."

RACV

These are the initials of the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria. Today, in their good planning and wisdom they invited the Melbourne Staff Band for a Sunday afternoon concert. It's a beautiful venue and the acoustics were way better than one might have imagined at a glance. The room itself was on floor 17, where the view was fantastic.

The audience was very appreciative of the music and received the band quite well. The programme was unapologetically spiritual with great themes of God's love outlined nicely by graphics and lyrics on the screen. The Band Executive Officer led the programme with grace and proficiency.

Thank you, RACV for the courage to consider the value of God's unconditional love through the medium of music. Your willingness shows great respect for your members to make their own decisions by offering a choice to your good people.

Proverbs 19:21 (MSG)
21 We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God's purpose prevails.

Mentors

There have been a number of people in my life I would call a mentor. I owe them a great deal of gratitude. All of them have been Christians and many of them christian leaders. Even today, I will contact one of these good people when something strikes me as needing another opinion.

Let me encourage you to find such people in your life. The relationship need not be formal or even scheduled. It can resemble a friendship. The accountability and counsel is invaluable, and if the right person is chosen, will glorify God in you.

Isaiah 54:13 (MSG)
13 All your children will have God for their teacher— what a mentor for your children!

Getting it done

There are starters. There are managers. There are finishers. Not that we need any more labels, but in the Kingdom of God, where do you fit? Sometimes you hear the the expression, plan to finish well. There's something right about the injunction. What's the point of starting if you don't get to the finish?

Doesn't it just plain feel good to finish something? How about the conversation that doesn't know when to finish? Or how about the movie that passed the finish line long before the end of the movie? Most things are not as simple or even linear as start to finish. What I am sure of is that we will never finish well if we don't start.

Acts 20:24 (NIV)
24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

24/7 Prayer

Soon we will announce the re-installation of a 24/7 Prayer initiative in the territory. Stay tuned for the announcement of the person who has accepted this responsibility and for whom we need to pray. This is an area the enemy doesn't want us to enter. This is a plan he will fight.

I remember being in a conversation with holy people a little while ago where we were praying for a strategy. With clarity, the Holy Spirit said, "The strategy is prayer." I believe this effort will be the most significant step in the life of the territory in recent history. Everything from this moment on will be marked by this prayer movement and everything will be enhanced exponentially by the presence and grace of God. Hallelujah!

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (TLB)
17 Always keep on praying.

Virginia Tech

The loss of life at Virginia Tech is horrific. The enemy entered a heart and death is the result. This happens every time the enemy has his way.

Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

The families need the grace of God more than ever. Let us pray God's love into their lives.

1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)
8 Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Home Cookin'

There's nothing better than a home cooked meal. Carolyn has always been a great cook. These days, we eat at home as often as possible and the food is terrific. I'm blessed.

I know there are thousands and more people around the world without a proper meal. We need to do all we can for them. They would love a home cooked meal. Can we get through to them and the rest of the world too?

You see, there's a home cooked meal waiting for us at the banquet table in heaven. Let's get out there and see who will come with us.

Luke 14:17 (NIV)
17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, 'Come, for everything is now ready.'

Alpha in Prisons

Having attended a presentation by Alpha to introduce Alpha in Prisons, I am reminded firstly of the strength of the Alpha Programme. It has successfully been used by thousands around the world to introduce many more thousands to the Lord Jesus Christ. Hallelujah!

Now apply that success to the immense population of the world behind bars. Can't you just see the potential for the Kingdom of God? I can too. They reported tonight that recidivism in the UK has a real potential to diminish by near 40% for those who complete the course. That's worth a shout of praise to the Lord. I do know that the gospel of Jesus Christ will set any prisoner free no matter where they're incarcerated or for how long.

Psalms 146:7 (AMP)
7 Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets free the prisoners,

Broadford, Victoria

In the realm of the Northern Victoria Division, you will find a good corps in Broadford under the leadership of Captains Gail and John Roberts. The community is country and has 2500-3000 people. Based upon the attendance today, they attract approximately 1.7% of the population. Contrast that with Melbourne. If you do, we should have about 45,000 people in worship each Sunday, which (at the moment) is not the case.

My point has little to do with numbers and more to do with strength. That's what I sensed today as we worshipped God together. If you're out that way or know someone who is, have them stop by. In all likelihood you'll be received warmly, witness the Spirit of God and enjoy His presence as we did today. God bless Broadford.

Genesis 13:17 (MSG)
17 So—on your feet, get moving! Walk through the country, its length and breadth; I'm giving it all to you."

Save the World

All through Scripture we read of God's intention to save everyone in the world. Some days, after trying my best to draw a person towards salvation, I conclude, "Why Lord, didn't you just take us all for your own?" It's a naive question in that it ignores the demonstration of the love of God for us all. His plan for us leaves the relationship to be our choice. He has already, through Christ revealed His love for all. The rest is based upon our conscious decision to love Him.

So while I despair at those who reject His love, I do so knowing their ability to do so comes by the grace of God. The grace of God is always present. Please, Lord, make us even better at shining and sharing so more will see the light and know that you love them. Hallelujah!

2 John 1:3 (NIV)
3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love.

Melbourne Central Division

We visited the new Divisional Headquarters building for the Melbourne Central Division today. The divisional leaders, Majors Rodney and Jenny Barnard are good at what they do because they are faithful servants of God. The whole team at the office is strong and supportive. It is a great place for ministry.

In the same building are the Moreland Corps and the Offices of the Crossroads Programme. We have visited the corps previously, so today we spent time at Crossroads. The professional staff there gave us descriptions of all the services they coordinate. It's obvious they know the importance of their work.

Isaiah 11:10 (MSG)
10 On that day, Jesse's Root will be raised high, posted as a rallying banner for the peoples. The nations will all come to him. His headquarters will be glorious.

Australia Eastern Territory

Spending the day at the Australia Eastern Territorial Headquarters was a blessing. It's a beautifully appointed facility and it hosts some pretty terrific people. There's a good spirit there that is evidence of solid leadership and the presence of God. Thank you, friends for such a good day.

The Salvation Army in Australia takes every opportunity to convey a consistent message and mission. It's in meetings like the ones today that facilitate this solidarity. They're necessary and they're worthwhile.

Hebrews 13:7 (MSG)
7 Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all.

Wonders of the World

When we were young, there was occasional talk about the seven wonders of the world. I don't exactly remember what they were, although I can recall a few...Niagara Falls, the Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Great Wall of China...??

If we were doing the same today, one of the wonders would be the Sydney Opera House in the Sydney, Australia Harbour. It is absolutely remarkable and it changes with the tones of light available throughout the day. We ate dinner on the harbor with a direct view this evening. The weather was perfect to dine outdoors and the meal was superb. Thank you, Lord.

The most important wonder of the world is Jesus. Hallelujah!

Mark 9:15 (NIV)
15 As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him.

Life and Death

Is it clear yet that what we do is about life and death? More important than anything else in the world, is our relationship with God through Jesus. More important...more significant...more essential...more wonderful...more beautiful...more fulfilling...than anything.

Imagine your most favourite experience...this is better. Imagine your deepest relationship...He is better...Imagine your highest joy. He's better.

Now think through the most important job in the world. Leading someone to Christ is way more important. How about winning he largest lottery in the world... No comparison to knowing Christ.

Knowing Christ will bring all of these aspects of life into glorious reality. The word calls it abundant life...and it is for all of us who do know Him.

John 10:10 (MSG)
10 A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.

The Youth of the Army

We have the best kids in the world in The Salvation Army. They are trusting and growing in the grace of the Lord Jesus remarkably. He must be proud of them. I know I am.

Over the weekend we joined both the youth of the Eastern Victoria Division and the Melbourne Central Division in separate venues, but not separate in Spirit. They sing praises to the Lord and lift up their voices in prayer without reservation. We are beginning to see a new generation of Spiritually focused young people who are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Hallelujah!

Watch for them. Pray for them. Trust them...and don't lead them astray, but lead them to holiness in the name of Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV)
22 Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

He is Risen

Luke 24:6 (NIV)
6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee:

Silent Saturday

Psalms 16:8-11 (KJV)
8 I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.
10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Good Friday

John 19:30 (NIV)
30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

Maundy Thursday

The name 'Maundy' is derived from the command or mandatum by Christ at the Last Supper, to love one another:

'And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.' John 15:12

Family

It's a joy to be with family. Often, as Salvos, we're called to be a father or mother to kids who simply need us to fill these roles for them. We must be ready to do so at any point. This only happens when we are available to others in our daily journey and it can happen without any specific work on our part.

There is a pain in the hearts of couples who are unable to have children. The alternatives are not as workable for every couple, but there are ways in which a person can connect in a paternal way. Not a replacement for a child of your own, but a role to fulfill for the glory of God.

I'd be lost without my family. Everyone needs one.

Joel 3:17 (AMP)
17 So shall you know, understand, and realize that I am the Lord your God, dwelling in Zion, My holy mountain. Then shall Jerusalem be holy, and strangers and foreigners [not born into the family of God] shall no more pass through it.

Creative Kids Camp

One hundred plus kids spent their Easter Camp at the Creative Kids Camp, led by the Children and Youth Departments of the Eastern Victoria Division. Their finale was tonight a the Box Hill Corps and it was a blast. There was singing, dancing, audio-visual arts, drama and loads of fun for all. The campers weren't restricted to the division. We saw kids there from all four Victoria Divisions.

Loved ones, this is worth the work. The kids were constructively engrossed in what they were doing and convincing in their shining witness of God's presence. Parents, Corps Officers, friends and strangers were all proud of the kids for their accomplishments. Lord, I imagine you were too. They honored you and demonstrated your joy convincingly.

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

The Opal Group

As a part of the ministry of the Waverley Temple Corps, the Opal Group represents Salvos who have an acute interest in helping the poor overseas with micro-credit initiatives. Coming from successful business experiences, they have established a workable business model for these micro-businesses and are prepared to put their resources into action to serve the Lord in this way.

Is it possible that God has raised up this vibrant group of people to facilitate an even wider participating base to give international support in this way? I believe so. I thank God for each of them and will trust God for their future direction and service. Hallelujah!

Luke 19:40 (NIV)
40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."

614 New Life Centre

The City Temple is the home of the 614 New Life Centre. God has been meeting there with people for 113 years. Today was no different. We worshipped Him around the moment of His triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. He drew us together in His love and we laid ourselves at His feet in love with Him.

This is a very real environment with very real people. So perfectly, God, who is very real, brought healing and grace and peace to us by being there. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In love, he blends generations, cultures, and even different worlds together to His delight. Praise the Lord. Hallelujah!

Thank you Majors Brendan and Sandra Nottle for your leadership.

Luke 19:36 (NIV)
36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.