Rebecca Kate Philp

We celebrate the life of Bec Philp. Today we gathered with her family and many friends for the Thanksgiving Service for her 17 year old life. Box Hill Corps was the perfect location for the love that flowed from God to us all. Lt. Colonel Carl Schmidtke, who dedicated her as a baby was there to bring words of comfort and hope.

We will miss Bec and may never understand any more than the medical issues that took her life, why she isn't here in person now. She is enjoying her entry into heaven and the presence of God. She too remains in our hearts. We are fortunate to have her in our lives.

John 11:25 (MSG)
25 "You don't have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live.

Lent

These are the perfect days to consider the love of God. Many people fast in these days preceding Easter to draw closer to God and to demonstrate devotion. It seems to me that this would be just a good idea for every day.

What ways do you draw closer to God and show your devotion to Him?

Proverbs 14:34 (MSG)
34 God-devotion makes a country strong; God-avoidance leaves people weak.

Risk Management

With a few guidelines and careful applications, the world could be a safer place. Minor accidents or major, they can create distractions from focus and from mission. They can also hurt.

We believe that all of our work and service environments should be as safe as possible. Seat belts in cars, safeguards with machinery, and proper training for proper equipment are all areas in which we have attempted to make secure from accidents. It does, however, also take our concerted efforts to make it all work. It's far from a waste of time.

Now you know I cannot resist the parallel. Why risk hell? You can manage your faith in Jesus who loves you and only wants your best. Remove the risk. Take the sure way: Jesus. Hallelujah!

Hebrews 2:3 (MSG)
3 do you think we can risk neglecting this latest message, this magnificent salvation? First of all, it was delivered in person by the Master, then accurately passed on to us by those who heard it from him.

Salvation Army Road Show

Not unlike the Antique Road Show that comes on television, Mr. Lindsay Cox, organised this SA Road Show to display artifacts, videos and all. People were also encouraged to bring historic items for others to see as well. The place was packed and the event was well worth it.

The second part included visits from historic characters, Box Hill Youth Concert Band, Camberwell Songsters and the Waverley Timbrels. Each group was a blessing and gratefully received. Again, the hall was quite full.

As it is said, "the past is prologue." I agree and conclude that the present and the future are undeniably promising. Let us seize the moment and make these days worth our living.

Hebrews 11:1 (MSG)
1 The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see.

Sidney Myer Music Bowl

The Melbourne Staff Band played the preliminary program to a Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Concert tonight. With no less than 20,000 people present, the band performed with excellence and grace. Major Len Turner, the Executive Officer led the program with words of encouragement, life and hope. We were all proud to be Salvationists.

There have to be ways in which we can confront the masses with the love of God. Here in Australia, people generally see the Salvos as people of light. This presents a wonderful opportunity to be strategic in grace. It just isn't enough to be nice people. We must get the Word out. Help us, Lord.

Matthew 5:14 (NIV)
14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Global Resourcing of TSA

I can't explain why God has allowed the distribution of wealth on this planet as it is, and I know the poor we will always have with us. What I do know is that He is expecting us to intelligently and strategically help our neighbours who have less resources. He is particularly interested in us finding and supporting those who have no means of support. So countries and Territories like ours are supposed to extend ourselves accordingly.

The extent of this concern is supposed to be until all have what they need to survive and even prosper. This will require even more effort on our part than we are already exercising. I believe the time is right for us to put our best minds together and demonstrate the providing love of God around the world. We have the means. Do we have the passion?

2 Corinthians 9:9 (NIV)
9 As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."

Order 614 Welcome

A new group of Order 614 members have arrived and are beginning to adjust to their new digs. We attended their welcome dinner tonight led by General Eva Burrows(Rtd.). She's amazing. The Order members are another class with diversity and marked by their love for Jesus. This is a good thing.

A few of them gave their witness tonight. I believe God has led them each here for His good purposes and for His delight. As their journey begins, let us be in prayer for them and believe for their successful venture in faith. Hallelujah!

Thank you Majors Brendan and Sandra Nottle for your faithfulness. God is with you.

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.

Public Relations and Planned Giving Conference

Under the leadership of Major Wayne Pittaway, the Territorial Public Relations and Development Conference is well under way at the Geelong Conference Center. They're considering their craft under the theme "On the Edge - Stepping Out". The first sessions were conducted by Dr. Glenn Singleton and Heather Swan. In 2006 They set a new world record for Altitude BASEjumping (highest exit point) and highest Winguit BASEjump (exit point). They're particularly good at helping to understand and conquer fears.

I had a chance to share something about a permanent solution to fear and anything that might cause fears. His name is Jesus. No fear when He is near. His unconditional love and provision for us can release us from the deepest fear and set us free eternally. Hallelujah!

1 Peter 5:6 (Phillips NT)
6 So, humble yourselves under God's strong hand, and in his own good time he will lift you up. You can throw the whole weight of your anxieties upon him, for you are his personal concern.

Melbourne Central Division

The MCD Officers met today for a Re-Creation Day at the Werribee Corps. The theme was, "Living a life worth passing on..." This is a good group of committed Christians whose desire it is to serve the Lord in this present age. We have been to a number of these corps and social institutions where they are effectively demonstrating the love of God in personal and corporate ways. Majors Rodney and Jenny Barnard are the divisional leaders. They and their team make this division a place where God is glorified and people are being drawn to Christ.

The location for the day was the new facility for the Werribee Corps. It's impressive and will be quite functional when the fit outs are complete. God, Himself will provide.

Philippians 4:19 (TEV)
19 And with all his abundant wealth through Christ Jesus, my God will supply all your needs.

Preston Corps

One of the crown jewels of the territory has been the Preston Corps. It has a rich history of the presence of God in Salvationist mission. Today was no different. Good band and Songsters...good praise and worship team...beautiful crowd with a sincere interest in the Word. It makes for a holy combination.

There are many types of corps throughout the territory. Each one that declares Christ as Lord is a good one. Each one that loves its neighbour is God honouring. What does yours look like? Can you see the signs of love?

You can at Preston. Thank you to each soldier, member and visitor today. Thanks too to the capable Corps Officers, Majors Graham and Beth Roberts, Captain Belinda Davis and Major Geoff Ledger.

Titus 2:12 (MSG)
12 We're being shown how to turn our backs on a godless, indulgent life, and how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life. This new life is starting right now,

Songs we like

Some of the contemporary songs available are reaching many in their worship of the Lord. One of my favourite such songwriters is Cadet Lieutenant Nathan Rowe. He's reaching me with good verse blended with good song.

One of my all-time favourite songs is in the SA Songbook. It's credited to the most famous author in the book: Anon. It's the second verse that grabs me, although the whole song is compelling.

Song# 521 - "Saviour I long to be..."

Make me a blazing fire
Where'er I go,
That to a dying world
Thee I may show:
How thou hast bled and died
That none may be denied,
But in thy bleeding side
A refuge find.

Isn't that great?

How about you? Favourite song? Composer?

Psalms 100:1 (NIV)
1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

Westcare

In the community of Sunshine, Victoria there functions an extraordinary array of social services known as Westcare. Under the leadership of John Avent, this vital ministry is one of the reasons the Salvos are so respected and needed.

We witnessed the presentation of Hugh Williamson Scholarships to staff and clients for their advancement as well as the community in which they live and serve. Proper representation from the Victorian government was present and accounted for.

It was a good day to witness the grace of God throughout professional social services. God, help us to help the children and young people who come to us. May they find your peace and love and joy. Hallelujah!

Isaiah 33:2 (MSG)
2 God, treat us kindly. You're our only hope. First thing in the morning, be there for us! When things go bad, help us out!

National Secretary

The new National Secretary of Australia was installed today in Canberra. Major Peter Holley most recently comes from Sydney and is well qualified for the responsibilities.

Lt. Colonels John and Helen Staite have just completed their appointments and are looking forward to imminent retirement. They have served the Lord well through all the years of their officership and turn the role over to Major Holley with the satisfaction of a job well done.

We are facing an era that sees an increase in our interest in social justice, which requires an increase in our interest in social policy. The National Secretary plays an important part in our continuing relationship with Parliament, and hence, in both of these connected disciplines. We welcome you, Major Holley.

Deuteronomy 7:12 (MSG)
12 And this is what will happen: When you, on your part, will obey these directives, keeping and following them, God, on his part, will keep the covenant of loyal love that he made with your ancestors:

Happy Valentines Day!

A day of love. I hope you took care of matters today. You'll be back-peddling if you've waited for 15th February. I think I made it through OK. You'll have to ask Carolyn.

Now there are many who don't have a Valentine. That can be problematic, particularly if you're dwelling on the whole love day thing. For a lot of people the day is over rated. Not for me...

If you've read anything in these postings, it's been about love...for eternity...and better than a Valentine could be. Yes, God loves you for more than a day...and He never forgets you on any day.

Romans 5:8 (NET)
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Administrative Leadership Training Course

The 23rd ALTC began this week under the leadership of Commissioner Brian Morgan (Rtd). Here for a six week program to be constructively influenced, these leaders from several countries are as follows:

* Colonel Irene Induruwage, Territorial President of Women's Ministries - Philippines Territory
* Lieut-Colonel Deise Eliasen, Territorial Personnel Secretary - Brasil Territory
* Major Masih Edwin, Field Secretary - India Northern Territory
* Major Gil Menia, Divisional Commander, Central Philippines Division
* Major Philomina Oklah, Territorial Director Caring Ministries - Kenya Territory
* Major Langton Zipingani, Secretary for Personnel Administration - Zimbabwe Territory

They have an ambitious schedule that includes most facets of SA administration. We'll be seeing them around for ministry opportunities as well. Look for them. Pray for them. They are seeking the favour of God in SA service.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV)
2 For he says, "In the time of my favour I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favour, now is the day of salvation.

Employment Plus

Did you know that we are closing in on the 500,000th person obtaining employment through the services of TSA over the past 9 years? That's just in Australia. When it happens, not only will it be a good moment for someone unemployed, but a wonderful moment in TSA social service.

Since we have been doing employment services of some sort for over 100 years, there is no doubt in my mind that we have indeed passed this marker. This fact isn't as important as is the reality that people are still out of work. They need our help and our help includes training and placement counseling and even more. Employment support continues to be one of those essential services to enable people in their journeys. That's one of our jobs.

2 Timothy 4:5 (MSG)
5 But you—keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant.

Cadets' Welcome

So what do you get when you put together the Training College, the Melbourne Staff Songsters, the Melbourne Staff Band, a full house at Waverley Temple in the presence of God? You get the Cadets' Welcome of the Witnesses for Christ. It was a terrific meeting and God is glorified.

This is a tremendous session of Cadets. Each one of them is engaging and dedicated fully to Christ. We can expect unimaginable things. God is honouring the territory with His choice people.

The meeting also included recognition of the new Lieutenants and the officers who have reached their long service milestones. There are amazing people here that seek the face of God regularly and demonstrate their love for Him with devout faithfulness.

Acts 1:8 (NASB)
8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."

Traralgon, VIC

In the beautiful region of Gippsland, you will find a comfortable community with a good corps. The corps has recently arrived corps officers, Captains Jeanette and Andrew van Gaalen who are energetically engaged in ministry in a new corps building. The dedication was today and was properly organised and celebrated by a large group of adults and children. It was great.

It is in these ministry stations that God works in abundance. Here at Traralgon they are now in a functional building in the right neighborhood for God to be glorified. Hallelujah! Pray for this corps and their people. Pray for the people to come within its influence so they will know Christ and the power of His resurrection. You won't be wasting your time and they will be witnessing your prayers.

Hebrews 13:18 (MSG)
18 Pray for us. We have no doubts about what we're doing or why, but it's hard going and we need your prayers. All we care about is living well before God.

Wider Cabinet Conference

Some of the finest Salvos in the territory are together for a few days to seek the will of God for TSA and to consider ongoing issues we face. To a person, they love the Lord deeply and have committed their lives to Him in TSA. They are the Divisional Leaders and members of the Cabinet.

I am grateful to God for each of them and to those who put them in place for ministry such as this. We are fortunate to have such dedicated representatives as the keepers of the territory. Saying a prayer for them today or so would be worth your while. Together, we depend wholly upon the Lord and hope to serve Him with our very best.

Hebrews 13:17 (MSG)
17 Be responsive to your pastoral leaders. Listen to their counsel. They are alert to the condition of your lives and work under the strict supervision of God. Contribute to the joy of their leadership, not its drudgery. Why would you want to make things harder for them?

Children & Youth Leaders

So the annual gathering of children and youth leaders of the Australia Southern Territory is occurring...and God is delighted. There are few crowds of people who are as engaging and committed to Christ, than these leaders.

They're under a lot of pressure to be creative and on the edge at all times. Staying ahead of the fastest moving generation in the history of the world is a formidable accomplishment. They're doing it with grace, courage and a holy abandon. Hallelujah! Good on ya! and kudos to TYS Lt. David Collinson, A/TYS Lt. Sonia Jeffrey and Major Sally-Anne Allchin, the Territorial Children's Ministries Secretary.

2 Corinthians 9:9 (MSG)
9 As one psalmist puts it, He throws caution to the winds, giving to the needy in reckless abandon. His right-living, right-giving ways never run out, never wear out.