'Twas two nights before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, and we hope there's no mouse...
The blackberrys were stored on their chargers with care, knowing no messages by day would be rare...
The children are missing this year from the scene, we'll plan to connect on the laptop screen...
I'm sure we will manage to be happy this year, with each others love and hope for all here...
Jesus is with us He's always right there, no matter the worry no matter the care...
With His love around us we're doing quite well, we'll shout with our lives His grace to tell...
I know this Poem's boring and and not really right, so Merry Christmas to all and to all a good two nights.
Zechariah 14:6 (MSG)
6 What a Day that will be! No more cold nights—in fact, no more nights!
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
Monday, 22 December 2008
Who speaks for the Salvos?
We've been greatly misrepresented by someone who characterised themself as a representative of TSA. A reputable newspaper took their word and created a grossly false report that might have damaged our good name and affected our mission negatively.
So who has the right to do that? No one.
What speaks louder than a misguided individual are our everyday deeds and consistent efforts to support marginalised people and partner with government with integrity and deep conviction. We don't deviate from these objectives. We do so with sacred resolve. This speaks for itself. Thank God.
Ephesians 1:23 (MSG)
23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
So who has the right to do that? No one.
What speaks louder than a misguided individual are our everyday deeds and consistent efforts to support marginalised people and partner with government with integrity and deep conviction. We don't deviate from these objectives. We do so with sacred resolve. This speaks for itself. Thank God.
Ephesians 1:23 (MSG)
23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
Sunday, 21 December 2008
Rudd gets it right on homelessness
From The Age..."Rudd launches plan to combat homelessness"
* December 21, 2008 - 12:20PM
"The Federal Government is aiming to halve the number of homeless people and accommodate all those sleeping rough under an ambitious new plan.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd today launched the Government's white paper in Sydney, which commits $1.2 billion over four years to building new housing and increasing services to prevent homelessness."
Good call Mr. Rudd.
Luke 2:7 (MSG)
7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
* December 21, 2008 - 12:20PM
"The Federal Government is aiming to halve the number of homeless people and accommodate all those sleeping rough under an ambitious new plan.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd today launched the Government's white paper in Sydney, which commits $1.2 billion over four years to building new housing and increasing services to prevent homelessness."
Good call Mr. Rudd.
Luke 2:7 (MSG)
7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
Thursday, 18 December 2008
Christmas Devotions
Every Thursday morning at THQ we share in a time of devotions and prayer. Today, Carolyn led the devotions and welcomed Merryn Steel as the guest soloist. She'd the deputy songster leader of the Melbourne Staff Songsters. She sang several songs to our delight and by doing so, witnessed to the grace of God in her life.
With Christmas coming quickly, we should take every opportunity to celebrate the presence of God by the birth of Jesus in our lives. Hallelujah! Do it with love and devotion.
Proverbs 14:34 (MSG)
34 God-devotion makes a country strong; God-avoidance leaves people weak.
With Christmas coming quickly, we should take every opportunity to celebrate the presence of God by the birth of Jesus in our lives. Hallelujah! Do it with love and devotion.
Proverbs 14:34 (MSG)
34 God-devotion makes a country strong; God-avoidance leaves people weak.
Wednesday, 17 December 2008
Christmas Cards
We enjoy receiving Christmas cards. They range from beautifully spiritual to generic seasonal cards. Some come with tender hand written greetings and encouragement. Others come with gold embossed printed names. How about the Christmas time family newsletters? Aren't they terrific? Then there are those who send a family photo, occasionally with a pet in the picture. Some years, Major Tom Mack will send a newly written carol to enjoy. Another option are the e-cards, where you click on a link and the card appears with reindeer dancing or snow flakes falling and music playing in the background. They're great.
Some of our friends keep the cards they received and go through them in the new year as a prayer list. Not bad at all. Some homes tape them to the interior door posts of their home as decorations.
Without being negative, there are a few card companies that really appreciate our penchant for these cards. Generally, they provide an admirable service for us and a little more job security for the Post (mail). Some people and corporations forgo cards for a donation to a good cause.
Why not send a prayer with the card or at the receipt of a card? As always, seek the best of the situation and redeem it to the glory of God.
Galatians 4:4 (MSG)
4 But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law.
Some of our friends keep the cards they received and go through them in the new year as a prayer list. Not bad at all. Some homes tape them to the interior door posts of their home as decorations.
Without being negative, there are a few card companies that really appreciate our penchant for these cards. Generally, they provide an admirable service for us and a little more job security for the Post (mail). Some people and corporations forgo cards for a donation to a good cause.
Why not send a prayer with the card or at the receipt of a card? As always, seek the best of the situation and redeem it to the glory of God.
Galatians 4:4 (MSG)
4 But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law.
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
Christmas Carols
One of the best features of the season is the preponderance of Christmas Carols we can enjoy. Which one do like best? Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Joy to the World, Silent Night?
They're each loaded with theological depth and they're a blessing to sing. How many verses have you memorised?
The tunes are beautiful too. They're very difficult to improvise, but with the music, they bring memories and good feelings to the surface. So, enjoy the Christmas Carols and remember that God did this for you and me.
John 1:14 (Phillips NT)
14 So the word of God became a human being and lived among us. We saw his splendour (the splendour as of a father's only son), full of grace and truth. And it was about him that John stood up and testified, exclaiming: "Here is the one I was speaking about when I said that although he would come after me he would always be in front of me; for he existed before I was born!" Indeed, every one of us has shared in his riches - there is a grace in our lives because of his grace. For while the Law was given by Moses, love and truth came through Jesus Christ. It is true that no one has ever seen God at any time. Yet the divine and only Son, who lives in the closest intimacy with the Father, has made him known.
They're each loaded with theological depth and they're a blessing to sing. How many verses have you memorised?
The tunes are beautiful too. They're very difficult to improvise, but with the music, they bring memories and good feelings to the surface. So, enjoy the Christmas Carols and remember that God did this for you and me.
John 1:14 (Phillips NT)
14 So the word of God became a human being and lived among us. We saw his splendour (the splendour as of a father's only son), full of grace and truth. And it was about him that John stood up and testified, exclaiming: "Here is the one I was speaking about when I said that although he would come after me he would always be in front of me; for he existed before I was born!" Indeed, every one of us has shared in his riches - there is a grace in our lives because of his grace. For while the Law was given by Moses, love and truth came through Jesus Christ. It is true that no one has ever seen God at any time. Yet the divine and only Son, who lives in the closest intimacy with the Father, has made him known.
Monday, 15 December 2008
World Missionary Fellowship
We enjoyed participating in the December meeting of the World Missionary Fellowship in Melbourne. Lt. Colonel Ian Southwell, the President, chaired the programme that included the Waverley Chinese Violin Band, Songster Martin Spottiswood and accompanist, CSM Ian Shanks, both of the Ringwood Corps. The music was phenomenal.
The Fellowship supports our people serving overseas with prayer, financial and practical support. They are faithful in all these ways and represent Christ with determination and joy. Hallelujah!
John 1:14 (MSG)
14 The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish.
The Fellowship supports our people serving overseas with prayer, financial and practical support. They are faithful in all these ways and represent Christ with determination and joy. Hallelujah!
John 1:14 (MSG)
14 The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish.
Sunday, 14 December 2008
Hobart Citadel 125th Anniversary
We enjoyed the worship of God today at the Hobart Citadel Corps. They celebrate 125 years of the faithfulness of God through the ministry of The Salvation Army in that city. Captain Tom Gibbs started the work there two months after the 'Army' arrived in Tassie.
The corps is strong and vibrant. The local officers and corps officers are full on in the battle. I expect that the next 125 years will be even more glorious. Hallelujah!
Hey, don't I know a Tom Gibbs that goes to a corps in Melbourne?
1 Peter 2:6 (MSG)
6 The Scriptures provide precedent: Look! I'm setting a stone in Zion, a cornerstone in the place of honor. Whoever trusts in this stone as a foundation will never have cause to regret it.
The corps is strong and vibrant. The local officers and corps officers are full on in the battle. I expect that the next 125 years will be even more glorious. Hallelujah!
Hey, don't I know a Tom Gibbs that goes to a corps in Melbourne?
1 Peter 2:6 (MSG)
6 The Scriptures provide precedent: Look! I'm setting a stone in Zion, a cornerstone in the place of honor. Whoever trusts in this stone as a foundation will never have cause to regret it.
Saturday, 13 December 2008
Christmas Prayers
We shared in prayer tonight with members of the Hobart, Tasmania Citadel Corps. They've completed their 24/7 prayer week and are celebrating the 125th anniversary of the corps this weekend.
The place for us to start our visit was on our knees. They get it here. Local officers with Majors Brad and Heather Jenkins are on track, working and praying to glorify God. Hallelujah!
1 Peter 2:5 (MSG)
5 Present yourselves as building stones for the construction of a sanctuary vibrant with life, in which you'll serve as holy priests offering Christ-approved lives up to God.
The place for us to start our visit was on our knees. They get it here. Local officers with Majors Brad and Heather Jenkins are on track, working and praying to glorify God. Hallelujah!
1 Peter 2:5 (MSG)
5 Present yourselves as building stones for the construction of a sanctuary vibrant with life, in which you'll serve as holy priests offering Christ-approved lives up to God.
Friday, 12 December 2008
Christmas Gatherings
All around the world, there are all types of Christmas gatherings taking place. Concerts, worship meetings, parties, and more. Let's take full advantage and share the gospel even more as a result. Make sure someone around you understands that the birth of Jesus is God's plan for the redemption of the world. Hallelujah!
John 1:14 (MSG)
14 The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish.
John 1:14 (MSG)
14 The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish.
Wednesday, 10 December 2008
Partners in the Battle
We share with many people and institutions, the battle for souls in the kingdom. The fight isn't, of course among ourselves, but against the enemy and for the hearts of brothers and sisters to be. These institutions include social agencies, churches, para church organisations and educational institutions to name a few. Where it starts and where it finishes is up to us.
In a day when resources seem more limited than ever, these partnerships are one way to maximise our efforts and leverage the existing strength we already have. I reckon we should always look towards partnerships in our endeavors to serve the Lord. It actually sounds scriptural.
2 Corinthians 1:24 (MSG)
24 We're not in charge of how you live out the faith, looking over your shoulders, suspiciously critical. We're partners, working alongside you, joyfully expectant. I know that you stand by your own faith, not by ours.
In a day when resources seem more limited than ever, these partnerships are one way to maximise our efforts and leverage the existing strength we already have. I reckon we should always look towards partnerships in our endeavors to serve the Lord. It actually sounds scriptural.
2 Corinthians 1:24 (MSG)
24 We're not in charge of how you live out the faith, looking over your shoulders, suspiciously critical. We're partners, working alongside you, joyfully expectant. I know that you stand by your own faith, not by ours.
Tuesday, 9 December 2008
Collingwood
Besides being a Magpie supporter, I am also Collingwood outpost prayer warrior. There are a few indomitable soldiers that are proving the powerful grace and love of God in this neighborhood that used to be inhabited and influenced by Salvationists. It is now.
A recent report of the activities of this outpost reveal 22 conversions to Jesus so far this year. Bless the Lord! Join me in prayer for this band of faithful fighters and those who will soon become followers of Jesus. Hallelujah!
Jude 1:3 (MSG)
3 Dear friends, I've dropped everything to write you about this life of salvation that we have in common. I have to write insisting—begging!—that you fight with everything you have in you for this faith entrusted to us as a gift to guard and cherish.
A recent report of the activities of this outpost reveal 22 conversions to Jesus so far this year. Bless the Lord! Join me in prayer for this band of faithful fighters and those who will soon become followers of Jesus. Hallelujah!
Jude 1:3 (MSG)
3 Dear friends, I've dropped everything to write you about this life of salvation that we have in common. I have to write insisting—begging!—that you fight with everything you have in you for this faith entrusted to us as a gift to guard and cherish.
Monday, 8 December 2008
Valedictory Meeting
This meeting occurred as Commissioning weekend began. I didn't want to leave it out of the mix. Both Dr. Paul Bernie of the Melbourne College of Divinity and Captain Stephen Court, Training Principal gave messages that were well received and consequential. The meeting was held at the City Temple on Bourke Street and the guest musicians were the Waverley Temple Youth Band.
Everything went quite well as the Cadets were issued their Officers' Training Completion Certificates. It was a joy to hold the event in that particular hall. For many years it was the center of Territorial activity. Hopefully, we can use it once in a while going forward. It does get plenty of everyday use by the 614 Corps on the premises. Hallelujah!
Revelation 22:13 (MSG)
13 I'm A to Z, the First and the Final, Beginning and Conclusion.
Everything went quite well as the Cadets were issued their Officers' Training Completion Certificates. It was a joy to hold the event in that particular hall. For many years it was the center of Territorial activity. Hopefully, we can use it once in a while going forward. It does get plenty of everyday use by the 614 Corps on the premises. Hallelujah!
Revelation 22:13 (MSG)
13 I'm A to Z, the First and the Final, Beginning and Conclusion.
Sunday, 7 December 2008
Children's Christmas Pageant
A Children's Christmas Pageant can tell the Christmas story with freshness and delight. This was our experience today at the Box Hill Corps. The kids were fantastic and we were blessed to be there. I particularly like that they have done this so early in the season. We'll be thinking about their message for the rest of the month.
If you can, get to one of these, enjoy the presentation and encourage the kids. It will enhance your Christmas season.
Matthew 18:3 (NIV)
3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
If you can, get to one of these, enjoy the presentation and encourage the kids. It will enhance your Christmas season.
Matthew 18:3 (NIV)
3 And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Saturday, 6 December 2008
Silvie Paladino
Tonight was a Christmas musical feast. The Melbourne Staff Band, Vocal Soloist, Silvie Paladino, and The Australian Girls Choir collaborated to bring a fantastic Christmas music programme. Carolyn and I thoroughly enjoyed each selection along with everyone in the audience.
These beautiful opportunities are a delight to my soul. Thank you each for your good work and exceptional performances.
Psalm 100:2 (NIV)
2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
These beautiful opportunities are a delight to my soul. Thank you each for your good work and exceptional performances.
Psalm 100:2 (NIV)
2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Friday, 5 December 2008
Open Air
I miss open airs, but both Carolyn and I went to one tonight in different places.
My open air was on the 614 Bus near Federation Square. It was a great crowd and many people came near for a chat. I was blessed to pray with a young couple on the street. No band. No march, but the message was given, as well as good food, good fun and good company.
Carolyn was on Maling Road where the Camberwell Band was doing their Christmas Caroling. The band played well and made a very good presentation. Have you considered the theology in Christmas Carols? Many people know them by heart.
I'm glad we still do open airs in the territory.
Matthew 5:15 (NIV)
15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
My open air was on the 614 Bus near Federation Square. It was a great crowd and many people came near for a chat. I was blessed to pray with a young couple on the street. No band. No march, but the message was given, as well as good food, good fun and good company.
Carolyn was on Maling Road where the Camberwell Band was doing their Christmas Caroling. The band played well and made a very good presentation. Have you considered the theology in Christmas Carols? Many people know them by heart.
I'm glad we still do open airs in the territory.
Matthew 5:15 (NIV)
15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
Thursday, 4 December 2008
On Fire Exhibition
If you were there this weekend, you witnessed a display of some of the finest talent in the territory. On three stages, consecutively, different groups and speakers participated to the glory of God. There were rock groups, timbrels, soloists, dance groups, brass groups, songsters and choruses. The middle of the exhibition hall was set up as a cafe, where we could enjoy food and the performances that were taking place. Around the outside of the room were displays of artwork in many forms: oil paintings, water colours, aboriginal art, photography, quilting, stitchery, paper flower designs, woodwork, sculpture, children's art corner, face painting, food preparation demonstrations, new book display and more.
It was an exhibition festival where we were fanning into flame the gifts of God among us. It was great. We need to do more of this. Celebrate these gifts in your corps or mission centre and give the honour to God.
2 Timothy 1:6 (NIV)
6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
It was an exhibition festival where we were fanning into flame the gifts of God among us. It was great. We need to do more of this. Celebrate these gifts in your corps or mission centre and give the honour to God.
2 Timothy 1:6 (NIV)
6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
Wednesday, 3 December 2008
Retired Officers of Victoria
Each Christmas season, Carolyn and I have the opportunity to meet with the retired officers of Victoria. It's a beautiful luncheon in the Dandenongs and the programme is a delight. Today Merryn Steel was the vocal soloist. She's terrific and sang a variety of Christmas songs that we all enjoyed.
Christmas presents these opportunities for us. We can enjoy them in the knowledge that Jesus came into our world for our salvation and fullness of joy. Enjoy the season of resurrection.
Luke 2:7 (MSG)
7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
Christmas presents these opportunities for us. We can enjoy them in the knowledge that Jesus came into our world for our salvation and fullness of joy. Enjoy the season of resurrection.
Luke 2:7 (MSG)
7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel.
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Salvo Stores
At the annual meeting of the Salvo Stores tonight we were reminded of their incredible asset to the territory. These terrific people continue to work hard to do their part in the Kingdom of God, both for their customers and for service resources throughout the territory. Congratulations to Mr. Allen Dewhirst and team for your faithfulness and great value.
Ita Buttrose spoke with eloquence and direction. She is the Salvo Stores Ambassador. We were delighted to meet such an important person and recognise her support of Salvo Stores. Shop at Salvo Stores often and support the mission.
Acts 2:45 (MSG)
45 They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person's need was met.
Ita Buttrose spoke with eloquence and direction. She is the Salvo Stores Ambassador. We were delighted to meet such an important person and recognise her support of Salvo Stores. Shop at Salvo Stores often and support the mission.
Acts 2:45 (MSG)
45 They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person's need was met.
Monday, 1 December 2008
Sending Out Meeting
On the Sunday afternoon, the newly commissioned Lieutenants stood to receive their first appointments in front of a hall full of people. This is a particularly important moment in their lives and that of the territory. In this moment, they demonstrate total faith in God and a willingness to follow Him wherever He says.
Their witness for Christ in that meeting is powerful and strong. Each of us would do well to follow their example. It's another indicator of people saying "yes" to God.
Deuteronomy 28:6 (MSG)
6 God's blessing in your coming in, God's blessing in your going out.
Their witness for Christ in that meeting is powerful and strong. Each of us would do well to follow their example. It's another indicator of people saying "yes" to God.
Deuteronomy 28:6 (MSG)
6 God's blessing in your coming in, God's blessing in your going out.
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