… an Army that believes that God’s best work in us is in the future not the past.
It’s great to look back and enjoy the warm memories of that which has gone before. Many people will look to their childhood for please reminiscences, other to their early days of married life, still others to a great experience of the last few days. It all involves looking back
It is so easy to look at the past through a rose tinted rear view mirror!
That is not to say they weren’t great times and that the memory of them gives us hope and anticipation for the future. However, in Kingdom terms, the best is always yet to come both in our worship and service and our eternal hope.
We may look to the past in celebration of what God has done, and we may take it as the preliminary sketch of all that he is to do in the future – not that he will repeat the same thing over and over but that our God, who moves seamlessly through time will show us His dramatic presence in the future as he has in the past.
Last weekend saw a group of 45 Salvationists attending the latest discussion in the Scotland Mission Strategy process – a process that very clearly not only looks ahead but places that future in the hands of Him who is timeless. What an exciting prospect it is to think, dream and plan for what God is going to do in and through us.
If we do not believe that our best days are ahead, what are we saying about our God? That he peaked too early? That He made a mistake? Not one bit of it! As I look at the volumes of Salvation Army history formally lined up on the bookshelf I heartily believe that these will serve as a ‘foreword’ to the work that God is yet to do through us.
Our history tells that we do not rest on our laurels, our faith tells us to ‘press on towards the prize’ (Philippians 3:14). Our best days, because they are His days, are yet to be.
Monday 21 November 2011
Sunday 13 November 2011
What sort of an Army? (9)
… an Army that is unafraid to be seen in it’s uniform.
I recently ordered a new logo jacket. It was not for me it was for my wife however seconds after placing the order I realised that I had ordered a mans jacket for someone who is definitely not. The style and cut would be all wrong; the size would be way too big. In short it would be an ugly representation.
It reminded me that a short time ago someone defended their not wearing a uniform because ‘it’s ugly’. Yes, from a design perspective it may be considered not fashionable, it may not have a flattering cut or be cut from a cloth that we would choose but it singles us out as individuals with a purpose and a point to our living.
Because the cross has been sanitised by it’s adoption into jewellery culture, what is one of the most ugly forms of torture and death is now seen as fashionable and acceptable – in fact, probably for the majority of people who wear a cross it means, nothing other than as a fashion accessory. It is an ugly thing that has been made acceptable.
Therefore we need to review why we are wearing our uniform – and what guise that uniform takes. With the extensive provision of red shield garments, with the diverse programmes we are now engaged in there is no reason not to wear some form of appropriate uniform, regardless of what ministry we may be engaged in.
In so many parts of the world where others fear to tread the wearing of the Salvation Army uniform still gives confidence of safe passage and ministry provided, in times past when people were martyred for the wearing of their uniform, for a community that is struggling to deal with it’s own identity are we prepared to be anonymous in declaring that we are saved to save and to serve?
Be unafraid – be uniformed.
I recently ordered a new logo jacket. It was not for me it was for my wife however seconds after placing the order I realised that I had ordered a mans jacket for someone who is definitely not. The style and cut would be all wrong; the size would be way too big. In short it would be an ugly representation.
It reminded me that a short time ago someone defended their not wearing a uniform because ‘it’s ugly’. Yes, from a design perspective it may be considered not fashionable, it may not have a flattering cut or be cut from a cloth that we would choose but it singles us out as individuals with a purpose and a point to our living.
Because the cross has been sanitised by it’s adoption into jewellery culture, what is one of the most ugly forms of torture and death is now seen as fashionable and acceptable – in fact, probably for the majority of people who wear a cross it means, nothing other than as a fashion accessory. It is an ugly thing that has been made acceptable.
Therefore we need to review why we are wearing our uniform – and what guise that uniform takes. With the extensive provision of red shield garments, with the diverse programmes we are now engaged in there is no reason not to wear some form of appropriate uniform, regardless of what ministry we may be engaged in.
In so many parts of the world where others fear to tread the wearing of the Salvation Army uniform still gives confidence of safe passage and ministry provided, in times past when people were martyred for the wearing of their uniform, for a community that is struggling to deal with it’s own identity are we prepared to be anonymous in declaring that we are saved to save and to serve?
Be unafraid – be uniformed.
Thursday 3 November 2011
What sort of an Army? (8)
… an Army that recognises that worship is not a Sunday experience but a way of life.
Last week we considered that variety in worship is crucial within the Salvation Army ( and I daresay in the broader Christian Church as a whole).
This week I would ask us to consider two things:
That worship is something that happens as a gathered congregation.
That worship is something that happens because we are a sent people.
As a gathered congregation the act of gathering, of consciously setting aside time to spend with others of a like mind, or at least an enquiring mind, is worship. We have said inwardly to ourselves and to God Himself ‘You are worth giving this next period of time to, to concentrate on your goodness, to open my heart and mind to your leading and to open my mouth to magnify You – and this in the presence of my peers’. We give time, and therefore worth, to the things that are precious to us.
Clearly this does not have to happen on Sunday alone – any day of the week can be the setting of gathered worship – in truth we have numerous expressions in West Scotland of this very thing. The post-modern age allows us to consider such things as options rather than radical departures from tradition.
When we finish our gathering we then re-enter ‘His world-our mission field’ but the worship should and must continue. As we go about our daily lives, the mundane and menial, our work tasks and our social life this too is worship. The business deal, the conversation, the cup of coffee with colleague or friend all must have the same intentionality as the gathered event. We must give worth to our living because in doing so we are acknowledging the one who has given us life. Our living in the presence of God, we may call it holiness, is a direct influence on those around us and an act of worship in itself. In fact we may argue that it is purer worship because it has that additional impact on non believers.
Our day to day living, accidentally and intentionally is our worship – every day.
Last week we considered that variety in worship is crucial within the Salvation Army ( and I daresay in the broader Christian Church as a whole).
This week I would ask us to consider two things:
That worship is something that happens as a gathered congregation.
That worship is something that happens because we are a sent people.
As a gathered congregation the act of gathering, of consciously setting aside time to spend with others of a like mind, or at least an enquiring mind, is worship. We have said inwardly to ourselves and to God Himself ‘You are worth giving this next period of time to, to concentrate on your goodness, to open my heart and mind to your leading and to open my mouth to magnify You – and this in the presence of my peers’. We give time, and therefore worth, to the things that are precious to us.
Clearly this does not have to happen on Sunday alone – any day of the week can be the setting of gathered worship – in truth we have numerous expressions in West Scotland of this very thing. The post-modern age allows us to consider such things as options rather than radical departures from tradition.
When we finish our gathering we then re-enter ‘His world-our mission field’ but the worship should and must continue. As we go about our daily lives, the mundane and menial, our work tasks and our social life this too is worship. The business deal, the conversation, the cup of coffee with colleague or friend all must have the same intentionality as the gathered event. We must give worth to our living because in doing so we are acknowledging the one who has given us life. Our living in the presence of God, we may call it holiness, is a direct influence on those around us and an act of worship in itself. In fact we may argue that it is purer worship because it has that additional impact on non believers.
Our day to day living, accidentally and intentionally is our worship – every day.
Thursday 20 October 2011
What sort of an Army? (7)
… an Army that recognises variety in worship.
It has been our great experience over a number of years to experience a number of worship styles both within the Salvation Army and in other gatherings. I remember with great fondness attending a church event a few years ago where each worship session was assisted by a different group of musicians, one group comprised of guitars keyboard and drums, whereas the next session was helped by a classical string quartet. Each was appreciated and the response to their performance worship as well as their accompaniment was deep and sincere.
Reducing worship to a musical style is both inaccurate and disrespectful to God.
The essence of worship is doing what we are doing as a worthy offering to God. So our sung worship should be heartfelt – so very often it is.
However sSome people do not understand music – truly! How do we engage them in worship? Do we consider, art and drama, written prose and poetry as viable forms of worship? We dip our toe into this pond via 24/7 prayer rooms and Messy Church events but what about those who are seeking a regular outlet for this style of worship? Truly most Corps would struggle to present an alternative music based worship experience let alone a non musical worship experience. We do, however, need to value all forms of worship and not sit in judgment on those that we do not understand or appreciate on a personal level. We are not all the same and therefore have differing worship needs, the recognition of this ensures a stronger and more diverse fellowship.
It is the worth that we give God in all that we do that makes it worship rather than the notes we sing or play.
It has been our great experience over a number of years to experience a number of worship styles both within the Salvation Army and in other gatherings. I remember with great fondness attending a church event a few years ago where each worship session was assisted by a different group of musicians, one group comprised of guitars keyboard and drums, whereas the next session was helped by a classical string quartet. Each was appreciated and the response to their performance worship as well as their accompaniment was deep and sincere.
Reducing worship to a musical style is both inaccurate and disrespectful to God.
The essence of worship is doing what we are doing as a worthy offering to God. So our sung worship should be heartfelt – so very often it is.
However sSome people do not understand music – truly! How do we engage them in worship? Do we consider, art and drama, written prose and poetry as viable forms of worship? We dip our toe into this pond via 24/7 prayer rooms and Messy Church events but what about those who are seeking a regular outlet for this style of worship? Truly most Corps would struggle to present an alternative music based worship experience let alone a non musical worship experience. We do, however, need to value all forms of worship and not sit in judgment on those that we do not understand or appreciate on a personal level. We are not all the same and therefore have differing worship needs, the recognition of this ensures a stronger and more diverse fellowship.
It is the worth that we give God in all that we do that makes it worship rather than the notes we sing or play.
Saturday 15 October 2011
What sort of an Army ? (6)
… an Army that sees personal repentance as more important than public relations.
Now here’s a tricky one! Or is it?
Without any doubt there is a need for us to experience personal repentance in order to have a real experience of Jesus in our live: the need to confess our need of Him within us and to list our sins before Him in order to empty ourselves of our selfish ways and allow Him to enter into fullness within us. No personal repentance – no real relationship with Christ.
However what appears to happen within the Church is that we feel we need to be on a constant marketing campaign for our own fellowship, church or Corps. We end up preaching ‘churchianity’ rather than Christ. We promote the quality of our music, the diversity of our community ministry, the depth of the teaching when the truth is held within our Biblical doctrine: ‘He that believes has the witness in himself’
If we confess Christ with our lips and reflect Him in our actions we don’t need fancy gimmicks or justifications (it is equally no need to be slack either) for Jesus attracts all people to Himself – it is our attempts at being His PR agents that stop so many people seeing Him. So many people have judged the Church on it’s representatives – let each give their family, friends and neighbours opportunity of encountering Christ by making ourselves vulnerable by speaking His name and the new life we have discovered in Him.
Now here’s a tricky one! Or is it?
Without any doubt there is a need for us to experience personal repentance in order to have a real experience of Jesus in our live: the need to confess our need of Him within us and to list our sins before Him in order to empty ourselves of our selfish ways and allow Him to enter into fullness within us. No personal repentance – no real relationship with Christ.
However what appears to happen within the Church is that we feel we need to be on a constant marketing campaign for our own fellowship, church or Corps. We end up preaching ‘churchianity’ rather than Christ. We promote the quality of our music, the diversity of our community ministry, the depth of the teaching when the truth is held within our Biblical doctrine: ‘He that believes has the witness in himself’
If we confess Christ with our lips and reflect Him in our actions we don’t need fancy gimmicks or justifications (it is equally no need to be slack either) for Jesus attracts all people to Himself – it is our attempts at being His PR agents that stop so many people seeing Him. So many people have judged the Church on it’s representatives – let each give their family, friends and neighbours opportunity of encountering Christ by making ourselves vulnerable by speaking His name and the new life we have discovered in Him.
Friday 7 October 2011
What sort of an Army? (6)
… an Army that places personal discipleship at the heart of all we are.
To be a follower of Jesus is to walk in His footsteps wherever we may find ourselves.
We discover more about people by spending time in their presence, hearing there words and responding to their actions and values. In human terms this sometimes leads to disagreement but can also lead to developing character and shifting of opinions. A mind that is closed is a mind that will atrophy and eventually be seen and heard as being stuck in the past.
When we walk every day with Jesus we pursue Christlikeness - we call it discipleship. It essentially is a reflection of every aspect of our living for Jesus: in the workplace, the schoolroom, the queue at the bank, the car park. Discipleship is about every moment of everyday. Having a heart that is open to His prompting and guidance in the daily grind. Knowing that with him the tasks of the everyday are opportunities for witness and ministry, rather than for energy sapping effort.
When the spirit of Christ invades every part of ur being we discover that the response of the faithful disciple is natural not forced.
Every day with Him is learning every day to be like Him
To be a follower of Jesus is to walk in His footsteps wherever we may find ourselves.
We discover more about people by spending time in their presence, hearing there words and responding to their actions and values. In human terms this sometimes leads to disagreement but can also lead to developing character and shifting of opinions. A mind that is closed is a mind that will atrophy and eventually be seen and heard as being stuck in the past.
When we walk every day with Jesus we pursue Christlikeness - we call it discipleship. It essentially is a reflection of every aspect of our living for Jesus: in the workplace, the schoolroom, the queue at the bank, the car park. Discipleship is about every moment of everyday. Having a heart that is open to His prompting and guidance in the daily grind. Knowing that with him the tasks of the everyday are opportunities for witness and ministry, rather than for energy sapping effort.
When the spirit of Christ invades every part of ur being we discover that the response of the faithful disciple is natural not forced.
Every day with Him is learning every day to be like Him
What sort of an Army? (5)
… an Army that not only provides a social service but involves itself in integrated social ministry.
I found myself leafing through a book of SA ceremonies recently and came across the concept and idea of spiritual covenants. The one I was particularly looking at was relating to personal spiritual renewal but it triggered the whole idea of covenanted living and where that covenant can take us – and what it can lead us into.
William Booth at the most pivotal time of his life declared ‘God shall have all there is of William Booth’. Those nine words were a profound covenant between the former pawnbroker’s assistant and future General of the Salvation Army and our God. Those nine words took him from wayside preacher to social reformer with the salvation of mankind as his driving force.
The two issues need to go hand in hand – our community and social provision needs to have at every stage of it’s development and presentation the truth of the gospel: Jesus’ love is for all and in serving the poorest we serve Him.
Provision of social and community service has been and will remain to be a hallmark of Salvation Army ministry – where we need to focus is this: where is the integration of that practical provision and the clear and true gospel message?
Would anyone who comes as a recipient of our service provision be unaware of the reason behind that provision? How do people ‘hear’ the gospel when they arrive for mother and toddlers, lunch club, after school activity, night shelter etc ?
In other traditions the question may be asked: ‘What is the appropriate liturgy for this setting?’, we may ask ‘Where is the process from ‘entry point’ to introduction to Christ?’.
Booth’s personal spiritual covenant became and integrated and intentional part of his life – and we know the results. Our holistic ministry must be equally integrated, intentional and definitely covenantal.
I found myself leafing through a book of SA ceremonies recently and came across the concept and idea of spiritual covenants. The one I was particularly looking at was relating to personal spiritual renewal but it triggered the whole idea of covenanted living and where that covenant can take us – and what it can lead us into.
William Booth at the most pivotal time of his life declared ‘God shall have all there is of William Booth’. Those nine words were a profound covenant between the former pawnbroker’s assistant and future General of the Salvation Army and our God. Those nine words took him from wayside preacher to social reformer with the salvation of mankind as his driving force.
The two issues need to go hand in hand – our community and social provision needs to have at every stage of it’s development and presentation the truth of the gospel: Jesus’ love is for all and in serving the poorest we serve Him.
Provision of social and community service has been and will remain to be a hallmark of Salvation Army ministry – where we need to focus is this: where is the integration of that practical provision and the clear and true gospel message?
Would anyone who comes as a recipient of our service provision be unaware of the reason behind that provision? How do people ‘hear’ the gospel when they arrive for mother and toddlers, lunch club, after school activity, night shelter etc ?
In other traditions the question may be asked: ‘What is the appropriate liturgy for this setting?’, we may ask ‘Where is the process from ‘entry point’ to introduction to Christ?’.
Booth’s personal spiritual covenant became and integrated and intentional part of his life – and we know the results. Our holistic ministry must be equally integrated, intentional and definitely covenantal.
Friday 23 September 2011
What sort of an Army ? (4)
...An Army that looks for opportunities to befriend the friendless, clothe the naked, feed the hungry'
Over ther last couple of weeks it has been great to share at various Corps through Sunday ministry, PCC meetings and appointments consultations. Almost without exception these have been inspirational times with moments of deep spirituality as well as times when our humanity is also laid bare: the image of a retired affluent company director sharing harvest lunch with a family from the local social housing estate is one that is absolutely representative of the Corps fellowship at it's best. To know that both have come as a result of community ministry and are now established as part of the Corps worshipping community is indicative of where we are getting it right - linking people in an intentional way into exploring their relationship with Jesus.
General John Gowans had it absolutely right when he described the mission of the Salvation Army as 'Growing Saint, Saving Sinners and Serving Suffering Humanity'. In his own way, and style, he was prompting us to fulfil Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 61), quoted by Jesus :
'The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God...'
This passage, more than any in my opinion, makes our mandate clear: the poor have an inescapable role in the Salvation story - we are to serve them.
Poverty takes many forms, not all material. Poverty of education, poverty of relationship, and poverty of work all debilitate individuals who already attend our Corps - how much more then does the family who live near you, or the businessman in his car, or the mum pushing her baby buggy need good contact with God's people - our relationship with others starts where they are not where we are. The Gospel is about going and finding the friendless, clothing the naked and feeding the hungry. We need to look for the opportunities constantly, for in serving them we are serving Christ. Go.
Over ther last couple of weeks it has been great to share at various Corps through Sunday ministry, PCC meetings and appointments consultations. Almost without exception these have been inspirational times with moments of deep spirituality as well as times when our humanity is also laid bare: the image of a retired affluent company director sharing harvest lunch with a family from the local social housing estate is one that is absolutely representative of the Corps fellowship at it's best. To know that both have come as a result of community ministry and are now established as part of the Corps worshipping community is indicative of where we are getting it right - linking people in an intentional way into exploring their relationship with Jesus.
General John Gowans had it absolutely right when he described the mission of the Salvation Army as 'Growing Saint, Saving Sinners and Serving Suffering Humanity'. In his own way, and style, he was prompting us to fulfil Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 61), quoted by Jesus :
'The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God...'
This passage, more than any in my opinion, makes our mandate clear: the poor have an inescapable role in the Salvation story - we are to serve them.
Poverty takes many forms, not all material. Poverty of education, poverty of relationship, and poverty of work all debilitate individuals who already attend our Corps - how much more then does the family who live near you, or the businessman in his car, or the mum pushing her baby buggy need good contact with God's people - our relationship with others starts where they are not where we are. The Gospel is about going and finding the friendless, clothing the naked and feeding the hungry. We need to look for the opportunities constantly, for in serving them we are serving Christ. Go.
Thursday 15 September 2011
What sort of an Army? (3)
… an Army that values every person regardless of age or gender.
As the new season of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ hits our screens one of the facts that is being used in the publicity is that ‘this is the oldest line up yet!’ It’s great to see that individuals who may be eligible for their bus pass are still prepared to and get the opportunity to ‘quick step’ and ‘paso doble’. The fact that there are as many women as men is also notable…because, as is well known, opportunities for ladies in showbusiness tend to dry up once they reach early middle age. Here is an opportunity for all of these celebs to stay in the public eye.
Within our Army we could well use a view that acknowledges that both youth and experience are necessary for the fellowship to be balanced. It is not unusual to hear that a Corps is ‘focussing on the young’. Perhaps if we focussed on helping all ages to be disciples we wouldn’t have to restrict our thinking to one age group. Make salvation your aim and age and gender become meaningless. Now that doesn’t mean that we should not make specific provision for different interests and gifts, but it does mean that we should recognise that every generation that still lives in this life needs a relationship with Jesus to experience eternal life in the next. Alongside this every individual has something to offer the fellowship, however simple or complex they may be as individuals every person that surrenders their life to Jesus has a gift to honour God in the church; a gift of simple faith, a gift of believing prayer, a gift of unstinting service.
We need to value every individual – it is not only life affirming but more importantly it is God honouring.
As the new season of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ hits our screens one of the facts that is being used in the publicity is that ‘this is the oldest line up yet!’ It’s great to see that individuals who may be eligible for their bus pass are still prepared to and get the opportunity to ‘quick step’ and ‘paso doble’. The fact that there are as many women as men is also notable…because, as is well known, opportunities for ladies in showbusiness tend to dry up once they reach early middle age. Here is an opportunity for all of these celebs to stay in the public eye.
Within our Army we could well use a view that acknowledges that both youth and experience are necessary for the fellowship to be balanced. It is not unusual to hear that a Corps is ‘focussing on the young’. Perhaps if we focussed on helping all ages to be disciples we wouldn’t have to restrict our thinking to one age group. Make salvation your aim and age and gender become meaningless. Now that doesn’t mean that we should not make specific provision for different interests and gifts, but it does mean that we should recognise that every generation that still lives in this life needs a relationship with Jesus to experience eternal life in the next. Alongside this every individual has something to offer the fellowship, however simple or complex they may be as individuals every person that surrenders their life to Jesus has a gift to honour God in the church; a gift of simple faith, a gift of believing prayer, a gift of unstinting service.
We need to value every individual – it is not only life affirming but more importantly it is God honouring.
Friday 9 September 2011
What sort of an Army? (2)
What sort of an Army?
‘… an Army that is unafraid to share the gospel, not only together but when we are as, individuals in the workplace, the school, or college.’
Occasionally we get the impression that those around us are ashamed of the Gospel. The reality must surely be different. We certainly have no shame when we meet together in worship , last weekend saw Salvationists assembled in the New Town Hall in Cumbernauld from numerous Corps celebrating 40years of the Corps in that town. No shame – boldness and confidence were the standard of the weekend – even on the Saturday when fun was the order of the day. The local press understood the message of the Salvation Army by quoting that the Salvation Army is ‘Christianity with it’s sleeves rolled up’. Salvationists and fellow Christians confident in their Saviour and confident in each other. This is not unique of course when we join for worship and the word we derive strength for the days ahead and know we have met with the body of Christ.
Fast forward to the schoolroom of Monday afternoon, or the office of Wednesday morning, or even the family home at meal times. Where is the confidence when we stand alone, facing ignorance or ridicule? Let’s also acknowledge that this is unlikely to improve culturally as we move forward in a pluralist, secularist society.
The confidence to share the Gospel comes from the depth of relationship we have with Jesus. Nothing else. Our Sunday teaching and worship, linked with good strong pastoral care gives God’s people the grounding in scripture they need, our own spiritual walk enables us to stand tall and strong in the confidence of a gospel that has changed our lives from selfishness to selflessness.
Paul, in Romans 1:16, states ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.’ Why was he unashamed? Because he had experienced the transforming power of Jesus – and wanted others to experience it as well. We should have the confidence of Paul because we have an unfailing God, a constant companion. We should be both unashamed of the Gospel and shameless in its proclamation.
‘… an Army that is unafraid to share the gospel, not only together but when we are as, individuals in the workplace, the school, or college.’
Occasionally we get the impression that those around us are ashamed of the Gospel. The reality must surely be different. We certainly have no shame when we meet together in worship , last weekend saw Salvationists assembled in the New Town Hall in Cumbernauld from numerous Corps celebrating 40years of the Corps in that town. No shame – boldness and confidence were the standard of the weekend – even on the Saturday when fun was the order of the day. The local press understood the message of the Salvation Army by quoting that the Salvation Army is ‘Christianity with it’s sleeves rolled up’. Salvationists and fellow Christians confident in their Saviour and confident in each other. This is not unique of course when we join for worship and the word we derive strength for the days ahead and know we have met with the body of Christ.
Fast forward to the schoolroom of Monday afternoon, or the office of Wednesday morning, or even the family home at meal times. Where is the confidence when we stand alone, facing ignorance or ridicule? Let’s also acknowledge that this is unlikely to improve culturally as we move forward in a pluralist, secularist society.
The confidence to share the Gospel comes from the depth of relationship we have with Jesus. Nothing else. Our Sunday teaching and worship, linked with good strong pastoral care gives God’s people the grounding in scripture they need, our own spiritual walk enables us to stand tall and strong in the confidence of a gospel that has changed our lives from selfishness to selflessness.
Paul, in Romans 1:16, states ‘For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.’ Why was he unashamed? Because he had experienced the transforming power of Jesus – and wanted others to experience it as well. We should have the confidence of Paul because we have an unfailing God, a constant companion. We should be both unashamed of the Gospel and shameless in its proclamation.
Thursday 1 September 2011
What sort of an Army...?
What sort of an Army do I want to belong to…?
… an Army that is unafraid to share the gospel, not only together but when we are as, individuals in the workplace, the school, or college.
… an Army that values every person regardless of age or gender.
… an Army that looks for opportunities to befriend the friendless, clothe the naked, feed the hungry.
… an Army that not only provides a social service but involves itself in integrated social ministry.
… an Army that places personal discipleship at the heart of all we are.
… an Army that sees personal repentance as more important than public relations.
… an Army that recognises variety in worship.
… an Army that recognises that worship is not a Sunday experience but a way of life.
… an Army that is unafraid to be seen in it’s uniform.
… an Army that believes that God’s best work in us is in the future not the past.
… an Army that has it’s eyes fixed on Jesus as both it’s inspiration and reward.
… an Army that is unafraid to share the gospel, not only together but when we are as, individuals in the workplace, the school, or college.
… an Army that values every person regardless of age or gender.
… an Army that looks for opportunities to befriend the friendless, clothe the naked, feed the hungry.
… an Army that not only provides a social service but involves itself in integrated social ministry.
… an Army that places personal discipleship at the heart of all we are.
… an Army that sees personal repentance as more important than public relations.
… an Army that recognises variety in worship.
… an Army that recognises that worship is not a Sunday experience but a way of life.
… an Army that is unafraid to be seen in it’s uniform.
… an Army that believes that God’s best work in us is in the future not the past.
… an Army that has it’s eyes fixed on Jesus as both it’s inspiration and reward.
Friday 26 August 2011
Reflection
It has been my very great pleasure during this summer to attend three Summer School Celebrations. The enthusiasm has been great to experience – and the music, dance, drama and timbrels were pretty good too!
As part of these times there is inevitably an opportunity for reflection – this may be carried out in small groups or through a worship experience. My prayer is that this reflection, and any decisions based upon it will be long lasting and become a new pattern for living.
The whole concept of reflection, and its practise within our own spiritual formation, is crucial – along with appropriate action.
It sometimes feels as though we make rapid decisions leading to actions when we have had little reflection on Biblical truth or the theology that threads through our existence, or conversely we engage in perpetual spiritual navel gazing leading to no personal growth, relationship or programme development.
The practise of reflection is one we all need to engage in but we need to keep it in balance with activity and response. Spend time thinking – in any given situation – praying, meditating on the word and listening for God’s voice. Then act, tell others what you are going to do, journal it, write a blog – it creates an accountability to others and to our God in His leading. I can’t think of any individual or corporate situation where this would not be appropriate. The danger is that we fail to act on our spiritual reflection – or fail to seek God’s will.
Jesus clearly took time for personal reflection while being an activist that saw lives changed – we can do nothing less.
As part of these times there is inevitably an opportunity for reflection – this may be carried out in small groups or through a worship experience. My prayer is that this reflection, and any decisions based upon it will be long lasting and become a new pattern for living.
The whole concept of reflection, and its practise within our own spiritual formation, is crucial – along with appropriate action.
It sometimes feels as though we make rapid decisions leading to actions when we have had little reflection on Biblical truth or the theology that threads through our existence, or conversely we engage in perpetual spiritual navel gazing leading to no personal growth, relationship or programme development.
The practise of reflection is one we all need to engage in but we need to keep it in balance with activity and response. Spend time thinking – in any given situation – praying, meditating on the word and listening for God’s voice. Then act, tell others what you are going to do, journal it, write a blog – it creates an accountability to others and to our God in His leading. I can’t think of any individual or corporate situation where this would not be appropriate. The danger is that we fail to act on our spiritual reflection – or fail to seek God’s will.
Jesus clearly took time for personal reflection while being an activist that saw lives changed – we can do nothing less.
Friday 19 August 2011
Riots
I am sure it is with great sadness that many of you will have watched the violence erupting on the streets of the UK – firstly London then spreading to Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool. I sincerely pray that by the time you read these words that this upheaval will have ceased.
It is significant that blame is being placed at the feet of disaffected youth predominantly in inner city areas, the impact of generations of joblessness, the recession, the weather and the rapid movement of groups orchestrated through social media. Interestingly on Twitter #prayforlondon was out trending by a significant margin #londonriots .
At the same time we have hundreds of our own young people attending Summer School, Music Schools and adventure camps many of whom not only worship and socialise at the Salvation Army but also are engaged in volunteering in service in both Army and non Army settings. There are many other young people who are unemployed, get very warm and have access to social media who are not rioting and looting. There is much to be proud of within the young people of the UK.
Alongside this we have a responsibility to serve suffering humanity and see sinners saved. When people are asking questions and looking for a spiritual and moral compass this is the time when we, with all God’s people, can, and should, stand up and be counted as people who have found direction. Can I promote the idea of Salvationists and others who are aligned with the Salvation Army deliberately wearing an identifying mark? A fish, a cross, a red shield, even their full uniform when going about their daily living? And how about taking the time to be seen on the streets – available to the general public, walking to the next bus stop so that we are seen, walking to the Corps for activities? People are looking for hope – we have a God who brings hope to all. We need to be seen and be seen as having a viable message of hope for all those we meet with.
It is significant that blame is being placed at the feet of disaffected youth predominantly in inner city areas, the impact of generations of joblessness, the recession, the weather and the rapid movement of groups orchestrated through social media. Interestingly on Twitter #prayforlondon was out trending by a significant margin #londonriots .
At the same time we have hundreds of our own young people attending Summer School, Music Schools and adventure camps many of whom not only worship and socialise at the Salvation Army but also are engaged in volunteering in service in both Army and non Army settings. There are many other young people who are unemployed, get very warm and have access to social media who are not rioting and looting. There is much to be proud of within the young people of the UK.
Alongside this we have a responsibility to serve suffering humanity and see sinners saved. When people are asking questions and looking for a spiritual and moral compass this is the time when we, with all God’s people, can, and should, stand up and be counted as people who have found direction. Can I promote the idea of Salvationists and others who are aligned with the Salvation Army deliberately wearing an identifying mark? A fish, a cross, a red shield, even their full uniform when going about their daily living? And how about taking the time to be seen on the streets – available to the general public, walking to the next bus stop so that we are seen, walking to the Corps for activities? People are looking for hope – we have a God who brings hope to all. We need to be seen and be seen as having a viable message of hope for all those we meet with.
Children
It was a great pleasure to mix with the young people attending East/West Scotland Summer School ‘Awesome on the Inside’. The recognition that we have many young people who are valued by God and as such are provided for through such events should serve the purpose of reminding us that each individual has the opportunity through the Holy Spirit of reaching their fullest potential – whatever their age and whatever their potential might be.
I was also thrilled to be attending worship at two Corps over the last two weeks where the ‘Pray like Hannah’ approach to prayer has not just been mentioned but also prompted as a helpful and supportive way of praying and ministry to and for children.
Our children deserve our prayers and our personal investment because they teach us about the Kingdom of God with their simple approach to life.
As your young people return from Summer School, or their own holidays, and as they prepare to return to school, college, university, or the workplace assure them of your interest and support.
On a note that has personal echoes for my family it would be particularly appreciated if you could especially remember the children of officers who have moved and the new schools they will be attending. Many thanks.
I was also thrilled to be attending worship at two Corps over the last two weeks where the ‘Pray like Hannah’ approach to prayer has not just been mentioned but also prompted as a helpful and supportive way of praying and ministry to and for children.
Our children deserve our prayers and our personal investment because they teach us about the Kingdom of God with their simple approach to life.
As your young people return from Summer School, or their own holidays, and as they prepare to return to school, college, university, or the workplace assure them of your interest and support.
On a note that has personal echoes for my family it would be particularly appreciated if you could especially remember the children of officers who have moved and the new schools they will be attending. Many thanks.
New Start
Revelation 21:5 "And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new."
With the sensory overload that accompanies a change of house, change of job, settling two children into family life that used to accommodate four children, we arrived in west Scotland.
The new neighbours were warm and friendly and fully lived up to the open hearted reputation that people in the west enjoy.
A new gym was enrolled in as well as the discovery of a new doctor and a new dentist. New ways of getting to work – walking – are also on the horizon as well as enjoying new fellowship with fellow pilgrims.
All of these new things mean that sleep comes very quickly at night but ‘…new every morning is the love of God’ (Lamentations 3:23)
The new life that I know in Jesus makes all of these other new things seem as nothing – the knowledge that, because I have new life in Jesus, He has led to this point in my life. Not one step would I change if it meant that I was out of the will of God and yet each and every day commenced with Him reminds me that I am, daily, a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Undoubtedly there will be many other new things to encounter but both Catherine and myself want to thank everyone who has made us feel so welcome as we become acquainted with our new roles. I would particularly thank the DHQ staff and regional team for preparations made and a very warm welcome to the working environment at Stepps.
Our passion is to see Salvationists fully immersed in life with Jesus and being full and purposeful disciples. We look forward very much to working with and for everyone associated with the Salvation Army in the West Scotland Division. God bless us all.
Revelation 21:5 "And He that sat upon the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new."
With the sensory overload that accompanies a change of house, change of job, settling two children into family life that used to accommodate four children, we arrived in west Scotland.
The new neighbours were warm and friendly and fully lived up to the open hearted reputation that people in the west enjoy.
A new gym was enrolled in as well as the discovery of a new doctor and a new dentist. New ways of getting to work – walking – are also on the horizon as well as enjoying new fellowship with fellow pilgrims.
All of these new things mean that sleep comes very quickly at night but ‘…new every morning is the love of God’ (Lamentations 3:23)
The new life that I know in Jesus makes all of these other new things seem as nothing – the knowledge that, because I have new life in Jesus, He has led to this point in my life. Not one step would I change if it meant that I was out of the will of God and yet each and every day commenced with Him reminds me that I am, daily, a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Undoubtedly there will be many other new things to encounter but both Catherine and myself want to thank everyone who has made us feel so welcome as we become acquainted with our new roles. I would particularly thank the DHQ staff and regional team for preparations made and a very warm welcome to the working environment at Stepps.
Our passion is to see Salvationists fully immersed in life with Jesus and being full and purposeful disciples. We look forward very much to working with and for everyone associated with the Salvation Army in the West Scotland Division. God bless us all.
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