Meeting with SA leaders from many parts of the world reminds me that I have friends in high places. They each have significant responsibilities and carry then well with joy and holy conviction.
Better than them, I have a friend in the highest of places. He is my Saviour and He is God. Hallelujah! He was placed upon a cross and lifted up high to die for me. He descended into deepest hell and then ascended into highest heaven as a part of God's redemptive plan...and He did so out of love for God and us.
We truly need this friend in the highest place and hold Him highest in our hearts of love for Him to be glorified and for others to see Him for who He truly is.
John 12:32 (MSG)
32 And I, as I am lifted up from the earth, will attract everyone to me and gather them around me."
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
Monday, 29 October 2007
Sunbury Court
It's a place steeped in SA history and one which makes you think as you walk the halls and the grounds. Many, many holy people have come here for different conferences and meetings, none the least of these is the High Council. You know this is located just outside London and the estate is quite stately and functional. The trees are amazing. Like some I've never seen before, almost carrying an air that this is a special place.
Meetings this week will center on the global financing of TSA. It's a welcomed opportunity and one that will bear fruit, I'm sure. We still have many people and nations in the world to tell about Jesus. Our international scope proves the grace of God among us. Hallelujah!
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Meetings this week will center on the global financing of TSA. It's a welcomed opportunity and one that will bear fruit, I'm sure. We still have many people and nations in the world to tell about Jesus. Our international scope proves the grace of God among us. Hallelujah!
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Saturday, 27 October 2007
Commissioner Israel L. Gaither
I finished rereading the biography of Commissioner Israel L. Gaither today and it came to my attention (thanks S Court), that today is the Commissioner's birthday. I'm sure he'd like to hear from all of us.
The biography is eloquently written by Colonel Henry Gariepy and is not only a classic, but a great reference work as well. Do you want to know if God is at work in The Salvation Army? Are you interested in how He facilitates His mission through people? Would you like to know more of holiness, leadership, or commitment? Read the book. It's called Israel L. Gaither, Man With A Mission and it's worth every page.
Happy Birthday Commissioner!
Luke 15:23 (NIV)
23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate.
Friday, 26 October 2007
Commitment
In this role, there are amazing opportunities to witness deeply grounded commitment. God proves His love in astounding ways and we have wonderful soldiers in our Army who get it. Their response to His offer of service is availability. Their personal interests are tertiary to their love for Him and dedication to His mission. Hallelujah!
You can know the joy of unconditional love for God with your own willingness to submit to God, regardless of the cost. God will enable you both to make this commitment and equip you in the process of the demonstration of your witness.
Give Him your all...don't delay.
Job 22:21 (NIV)
21 "Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.
You can know the joy of unconditional love for God with your own willingness to submit to God, regardless of the cost. God will enable you both to make this commitment and equip you in the process of the demonstration of your witness.
Give Him your all...don't delay.
Job 22:21 (NIV)
21 "Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.
Thursday, 25 October 2007
God Answers More Prayer
I could write on this reality every day. Today, though, the answer to prayer is powerful and presents the hope for a better future in our mission. Hallelujah! Of course it involves people. It's always about the people. The hope of our future is not anchored in systems or programmes, it's in our people.
The Army part of TSA is no where near about structure (military) as it is about the force (people). We are enlisted to reach people. Always. We are only as good or effective as our people. God calls us into relationship...people with hearts, sensitivities, excitement, hopes, and more.
Thank you Lord, for answering our prayer.
Philippians 4:19 (MSG)
19 You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.
The Army part of TSA is no where near about structure (military) as it is about the force (people). We are enlisted to reach people. Always. We are only as good or effective as our people. God calls us into relationship...people with hearts, sensitivities, excitement, hopes, and more.
Thank you Lord, for answering our prayer.
Philippians 4:19 (MSG)
19 You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.
Wednesday, 24 October 2007
Decisions
One of my mentors says about himself, "I may not always be right, but I'm always decisive." It's one of the reasons I look to him so much. He's right way more often than not, but the point is that he has the courage to act on his convictions. I like that.
We've been looking at many subjects in these days of the 3T Conference. The discussion ends with a decision to act or not to act at this moment. This is good. There are many facets to the decisions that affect all three territories. They need to be weighed and understood from many perspectives.
I thank God for these women and men who are committed to serving Christ with every thought, decision and action. Hallelujah!
John 8:50 (MSG)
50 I am not trying to get anything for myself. God intends something gloriously grand here and is making the decisions that will bring it about.
We've been looking at many subjects in these days of the 3T Conference. The discussion ends with a decision to act or not to act at this moment. This is good. There are many facets to the decisions that affect all three territories. They need to be weighed and understood from many perspectives.
I thank God for these women and men who are committed to serving Christ with every thought, decision and action. Hallelujah!
John 8:50 (MSG)
50 I am not trying to get anything for myself. God intends something gloriously grand here and is making the decisions that will bring it about.
Tuesday, 23 October 2007
3T Conference
Each year at this time the two Australian Territories with the New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga Territory meet to review, discuss and plan subjects related to Kingdom business. It's well worth the time and is very productive. The agenda is mutually agreed upon in advance and the future of TSA in this part of the world is advantaged.
We have a great responsibility before us which we take very seriously. I believe God is honoured by the meetings, worship and fellowship. There is much to be gained by the interaction and concerns. Many issues are similar and relate to each of the territories. The experience and gifting of the whole contributes to the individual parts effectively. Prayer on this is welcomed.
Romans 12:4 (MSG)
4 In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around.
We have a great responsibility before us which we take very seriously. I believe God is honoured by the meetings, worship and fellowship. There is much to be gained by the interaction and concerns. Many issues are similar and relate to each of the territories. The experience and gifting of the whole contributes to the individual parts effectively. Prayer on this is welcomed.
Romans 12:4 (MSG)
4 In this way we are like the various parts of a human body. Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around.
Monday, 22 October 2007
Different Ideas
Earlier in the week I was thinking about new ideas. I like ideas. Now I want to advance different ideas. More properly, I want to acknowledge that different people have different ideas about how things should be done. In an expression, "there's more than one way to skin a cat."
What I'm pressing about is that in most things there is more than one way to get the same job completed or to reach our objectives. I'm trying to communicate that we need not get stuck in our ways, but in the spirit of cooperation and in conflict resolution, consider alternate approaches possible. You and I don't have to press our style or preferences, only open up to other ways...How about God's ways?
Psalms 25:4 (MSG)
4 Show me how you work, God; School me in your ways.
What I'm pressing about is that in most things there is more than one way to get the same job completed or to reach our objectives. I'm trying to communicate that we need not get stuck in our ways, but in the spirit of cooperation and in conflict resolution, consider alternate approaches possible. You and I don't have to press our style or preferences, only open up to other ways...How about God's ways?
Psalms 25:4 (MSG)
4 Show me how you work, God; School me in your ways.
Sunday, 21 October 2007
Reading is Essential
We need to find time to read on our journey. Starting with the Word of God, there are any number of good books out there by which God will inspire, instruct and enable you. I've recently finished Roger Green's book on the life and ministry of William Booth. It's better than a history book. He gets to the core of the movement by giving insights about the founder.
Last week I read Cory Harrison's restatement of Catherine Booth's Agressive Christiantity. He does very well with this and brings her writings to a fresh understanding...no less compelling, convicting or challenging.
I picked up General Larsson's autobiography today for this week. So far, he's a blessing.
So what are you reading? What do you recommend as the three top books you've read after the Bible?
Ephesians 3:4 (MSG)
4 As you read over what I have written to you, you'll be able to see for yourselves into the mystery of Christ.
Last week I read Cory Harrison's restatement of Catherine Booth's Agressive Christiantity. He does very well with this and brings her writings to a fresh understanding...no less compelling, convicting or challenging.
I picked up General Larsson's autobiography today for this week. So far, he's a blessing.
So what are you reading? What do you recommend as the three top books you've read after the Bible?
Ephesians 3:4 (MSG)
4 As you read over what I have written to you, you'll be able to see for yourselves into the mystery of Christ.
Saturday, 20 October 2007
Household Troops Band
We are here for the first ever Household Troops Band visit to Australia. They were great tonight at the Waverley Temple Corps. Good program and good music. They have a warm and friendly spirit. No wonder their called the "people's band."
After tomorrow they're in Warnambool, Adelaide Congress Hall and Perth Fortress. There's no doubt in my mind that they'll be well received and appreciated. Look for them if they're coming to a neighborhood near you.
Psalms 149:3 (MSG)
3 Let them praise his name in dance; strike up the band and make great music!
After tomorrow they're in Warnambool, Adelaide Congress Hall and Perth Fortress. There's no doubt in my mind that they'll be well received and appreciated. Look for them if they're coming to a neighborhood near you.
Psalms 149:3 (MSG)
3 Let them praise his name in dance; strike up the band and make great music!
Friday, 19 October 2007
New Ideas
Let's be open to new ideas. If we are to move forward, change is inevitable and new ideas are a part of the plan. They come from God in many ways. We have to be listening and considering and praying for the inspiration of these new directions or concepts or options. Anything less would be maintenance. Do we really want to be satisfied with that?
It does take discernment to know when a new idea is a good idea. Is it consistent with the direction of God? Does it align with our God-given mission? Is it feasible? These are some of the qualifiers that will render a new idea workable or file-able. Often, some of these new ideas have been tried before and it's time to try them again. Either way, we need to be on the look out for ways to extend the Kingdom of God and that will glorify Him. Hallelujah!
Revelation 21:5 (MSG)
5 The Enthroned continued, "Look! I'm making everything new. Write it all down—each word dependable and accurate."
It does take discernment to know when a new idea is a good idea. Is it consistent with the direction of God? Does it align with our God-given mission? Is it feasible? These are some of the qualifiers that will render a new idea workable or file-able. Often, some of these new ideas have been tried before and it's time to try them again. Either way, we need to be on the look out for ways to extend the Kingdom of God and that will glorify Him. Hallelujah!
Revelation 21:5 (MSG)
5 The Enthroned continued, "Look! I'm making everything new. Write it all down—each word dependable and accurate."
Thursday, 18 October 2007
SPROC
This means South Pacific Retired Officers' Convention. The group is meeting this week at the Arndale Corps in South Australia. They are terrific. Today in the Keynote the Governor of South Australia, His Excellency Kevin Scarce was there with his wife to give greetings and welcome the officers to the State. His words were excellent and his spirit was warm and gracious.
The retired officers from New Zealand, Australia East and Australia South are so much in one accord, you can't distinguish them. Their fellowship is seamless and a credit to their faith in Christ. The theme for the week is "To The Hills." It makes you immediately consider a hill called Mount Calvary and the incredible demonstration of love for us. With the right perspective of Calvary, we see Jesus and salvation. Hallelujah!
Luke 23:33 (NKJV)
33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.
The retired officers from New Zealand, Australia East and Australia South are so much in one accord, you can't distinguish them. Their fellowship is seamless and a credit to their faith in Christ. The theme for the week is "To The Hills." It makes you immediately consider a hill called Mount Calvary and the incredible demonstration of love for us. With the right perspective of Calvary, we see Jesus and salvation. Hallelujah!
Luke 23:33 (NKJV)
33 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.
Wednesday, 17 October 2007
Candidates Needed
Plain and simple, we need more candidates for officership. We are believing for a growing Army, but our present number of candidates are short of maintaining our current officer strength. Know that we are determined to grow with or without increased officer support, but our officer corps is a proven source for an effective means to accomplish our God given objectives.
I am convinced that God is looking for more souls to enter His Kingdom and for the church to grow in that process. I'm also convinced He is looking to TSA to be a prominent part of His plan.
If God is calling you to become an officer, don't delay. Come forward now and realise the joy of following Him completely. In my experience, there is a direct correlation between our officer strength and our effectiveness in bringing people to Christ. Every soldier and employee and volunteer has a role and is valuable and vital in the process. Each of us should ascertain if God is calling us to officership.
2 Timothy 2:2 (MSG)
2 Pass on what you heard from me—the whole congregation saying Amen!—to reliable leaders who are competent to teach others.
I am convinced that God is looking for more souls to enter His Kingdom and for the church to grow in that process. I'm also convinced He is looking to TSA to be a prominent part of His plan.
If God is calling you to become an officer, don't delay. Come forward now and realise the joy of following Him completely. In my experience, there is a direct correlation between our officer strength and our effectiveness in bringing people to Christ. Every soldier and employee and volunteer has a role and is valuable and vital in the process. Each of us should ascertain if God is calling us to officership.
2 Timothy 2:2 (MSG)
2 Pass on what you heard from me—the whole congregation saying Amen!—to reliable leaders who are competent to teach others.
Tuesday, 16 October 2007
Partnerships
Starting with the understanding that God designed us for relationships, we can bask in the joy that the first relationship is between us and Him. Herein we find life, breath and abundant hope. Following this relationship, we have the delight to connect with our families and other believers. This too is promising, but not the end of it.
I believe God calls us to partnerships in the sharing of the gospel with other churches, para-churches and even other groups. Again, it's in the relationships that we demonstrate the harmonious miracles of God and by which we multiply our impact exponentially as a result. We have numerous partners in the fight. Pray that we maximise these opportunities to His glory.
James 2:22 (MSG)
22 Isn't it obvious that faith and works are yoked partners, that faith expresses itself in works? That the works are "works of faith"?
I believe God calls us to partnerships in the sharing of the gospel with other churches, para-churches and even other groups. Again, it's in the relationships that we demonstrate the harmonious miracles of God and by which we multiply our impact exponentially as a result. We have numerous partners in the fight. Pray that we maximise these opportunities to His glory.
James 2:22 (MSG)
22 Isn't it obvious that faith and works are yoked partners, that faith expresses itself in works? That the works are "works of faith"?
Monday, 15 October 2007
Encouragement
Living in Christ is a joy and a challenge among many facets of our relationship. In the course of the journey, we will undoubtedly face moments and situations where we are misunderstood or even wrong. Even out of a pure heart these occurrences have the potential to drain our joy and dissipate our strength. It happens.
It's at these times when the Lord will send to us an agent of encouragement to enable us to look up to Him with renewed hope and courage. It can be a great opportunity when we recognize it as God's gift and provision for us. He never fails.
Perhaps He is leading you to be an agent of encouragement. Look for the possibilities and allow yourself to be used by God in this constructive way. I actually believe that a day won't pass without the inspiration of God towards you to do this. You're perfect for the task. Hallelujah!
Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)
10 "... This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."
It's at these times when the Lord will send to us an agent of encouragement to enable us to look up to Him with renewed hope and courage. It can be a great opportunity when we recognize it as God's gift and provision for us. He never fails.
Perhaps He is leading you to be an agent of encouragement. Look for the possibilities and allow yourself to be used by God in this constructive way. I actually believe that a day won't pass without the inspiration of God towards you to do this. You're perfect for the task. Hallelujah!
Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)
10 "... This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."
Sunday, 14 October 2007
Norwood, SA 125th Anniversary - Sunday
The weekend culminated today with rejoicing and renewal. It's a beautiful hall and it was packed both this morning and this afternoon, balcony and all. They even set up overflow space where there was a huge screen for people to enjoy the meetings.
God was honoured throughout. Time after time, expressions of the work of God over 125 years were given. With each story, we praised the Lord. The music too lifted our hearts to heaven as we shared in God's presence. The weekend focused on Reunion, Reflection and Renewal all pointing to the Lord Jesus.
We praise God for what He has done, is doing , and will be doing at Norwood Citadel. Hallelujah!
Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)
8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
God was honoured throughout. Time after time, expressions of the work of God over 125 years were given. With each story, we praised the Lord. The music too lifted our hearts to heaven as we shared in God's presence. The weekend focused on Reunion, Reflection and Renewal all pointing to the Lord Jesus.
We praise God for what He has done, is doing , and will be doing at Norwood Citadel. Hallelujah!
Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)
8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Saturday, 13 October 2007
Norwood, SA 125th Anniversary
The celebrations of the Norwood Corps 125th Anniversary began with a Reunion Dinner Friday night. The banquet hall was packed and there were memories of the grace of God among us flowing freely through the hall. Some came from great distances to see friends of many years and to share happy stories, some revised through the years. Major Glenda Daddow, Major Cindy Shellenberger, and the Divisional Leaders, Majors Dennis and Pat Rowe all shared in leadership of the night. It was just great.
Today started with a Men's Breakfast meeting followed by a reunion band practice. The breakfast was terrific and the fellowship strong. There were also multiple historic displays that drew great interest and recollection.
The afternoon was filled with a BBQ picnic with games, face painting, family fun and again, good food. This is a wonderful corps with as promising a future as it has had a God-glorifying past. We're expecting a time of renewal tomorrow in the Sunday meetings.
1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)
3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Today started with a Men's Breakfast meeting followed by a reunion band practice. The breakfast was terrific and the fellowship strong. There were also multiple historic displays that drew great interest and recollection.
The afternoon was filled with a BBQ picnic with games, face painting, family fun and again, good food. This is a wonderful corps with as promising a future as it has had a God-glorifying past. We're expecting a time of renewal tomorrow in the Sunday meetings.
1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)
3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Friday, 12 October 2007
Serving Christ
Let's listen in on the funeral of Colonel Bo Brekke:
‘WELCOME in the name of the risen Christ!’ With these words General Shaw Clifton greeted the congregation which had gathered for the funeral of Colonel Bo Brekke on 9 October 2007 at 11am in the Oslo Temple Corps, Norway. ‘We are people who know about resurrection, about Heaven and eternity with Christ,’ he continued, adding: ‘It is a beautiful death to die in Christ.’
‘When we run out of words we turn to Scripture,’ said the General, wanting God’s Word to be foremost on this occasion. He quoted Matthew 10:28: ‘Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.’ He told the congregation: ‘Do not be afraid! We need to take this to heart. We have no guarantee of tomorrow, but Revelation 2:10 tells us that, if faithful, even to the point of death, God will give us the crown of life.’
He continued: ‘I have one more question. There is now a gap in the ranks of soldiers, officers and senior leaders. The Army is hurting. Which of you will step forward, ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice: “You must stand in the gap”? Out of evil, ugliness, sin and cruelty it is God’s nature to bring something of surpassing beauty that today we cannot see. Unmatched beauty will come from all of this. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.’
2 Thessalonians 1:12 (MSG)
12 If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.
‘WELCOME in the name of the risen Christ!’ With these words General Shaw Clifton greeted the congregation which had gathered for the funeral of Colonel Bo Brekke on 9 October 2007 at 11am in the Oslo Temple Corps, Norway. ‘We are people who know about resurrection, about Heaven and eternity with Christ,’ he continued, adding: ‘It is a beautiful death to die in Christ.’
‘When we run out of words we turn to Scripture,’ said the General, wanting God’s Word to be foremost on this occasion. He quoted Matthew 10:28: ‘Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.’ He told the congregation: ‘Do not be afraid! We need to take this to heart. We have no guarantee of tomorrow, but Revelation 2:10 tells us that, if faithful, even to the point of death, God will give us the crown of life.’
He continued: ‘I have one more question. There is now a gap in the ranks of soldiers, officers and senior leaders. The Army is hurting. Which of you will step forward, ready to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice: “You must stand in the gap”? Out of evil, ugliness, sin and cruelty it is God’s nature to bring something of surpassing beauty that today we cannot see. Unmatched beauty will come from all of this. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.’
2 Thessalonians 1:12 (MSG)
12 If your life honors the name of Jesus, he will honor you. Grace is behind and through all of this, our God giving himself freely, the Master, Jesus Christ, giving himself freely.
Thursday, 11 October 2007
Social Justice
We have an incredible responsibility to champion social justice in the name of Christ. This is not a new concept in the church or in the Army. We celebrate the efforts of early day Salvationists who gave themselves out of their love for Christ in this way.
Internationally, the General has thought the subject to be so important that he has established a social justice office connected to the United Nations, led by Commissioner Christine MacMillan.
Here in the Australia Southern Territory, we have Captain Danielle Strickland who is giving creative and capable leadership in this same area. Every day we are seeing increasing evidence of our own people seriously considering social justice issues and their part to play. Lord, help us each in our responsibilities to act justly and to love mercy whilst walking humbly with You.
Hebrews 11:33 (MSG)
33 Through acts of faith, they toppled kingdoms, made justice work, took the promises for themselves. They were protected from lions,
Internationally, the General has thought the subject to be so important that he has established a social justice office connected to the United Nations, led by Commissioner Christine MacMillan.
Here in the Australia Southern Territory, we have Captain Danielle Strickland who is giving creative and capable leadership in this same area. Every day we are seeing increasing evidence of our own people seriously considering social justice issues and their part to play. Lord, help us each in our responsibilities to act justly and to love mercy whilst walking humbly with You.
Hebrews 11:33 (MSG)
33 Through acts of faith, they toppled kingdoms, made justice work, took the promises for themselves. They were protected from lions,
Wednesday, 10 October 2007
God Answers Prayer
God has our hearts in His and hears our concerns from that place. Sometimes we make decisions with our hearts and other times with our heads. The distinction is significant to us. God's decisions are always from the heart. Our deepening relationship with Him will guide our thinking, our hopes and prayers. We come closer to His will in the process. It's a great place to be.
Today, God has revealed Himself in wonderful ways with answers that are thrilling. He is moving among us in remarkable ways and I am grateful. He is Lord and His love instills a confidence in us that we can stand in faith, believing Him. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 7:9 (MSG)
9 "... If you don't take your stand in faith, you won't have a leg to stand on."
Today, God has revealed Himself in wonderful ways with answers that are thrilling. He is moving among us in remarkable ways and I am grateful. He is Lord and His love instills a confidence in us that we can stand in faith, believing Him. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 7:9 (MSG)
9 "... If you don't take your stand in faith, you won't have a leg to stand on."
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