Photos

If a picture is worth 1,000 words, I just printed 150,000 words. Carolyn just got this Epson photo printer that works like a charm. It's easy, quick, cheap and high quality. The pictures were that of our educational tour in Greece and Turkey.

Photos are a perfect way to remember how things were and how people looked. Don't you love it when a picture of someone surfaces from 20 years ago when they looked like a hippie or something? You know, crazy hair and wild clothing? Ha! All of us have a few of these in our albums.

What do we really look like? What if there was a way to take a picture of the real you? Would it be a picture of honesty, integrity or compassion? Would we be beautiful in God's eyes? Would the 1,000 words be positive, sensitive and inspiring? God looks at us quite differently than the camera. Thankfully for us, He sees us through a lens of the blood of Jesus. It's very forgiving.

Genesis 1:27 (NIV)
Ge 1:27 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."

Cleveland ARC

God is at work in the Adult Rehabilitation Centers. We were a part of it today in Cleveland. Majors Karl and Beth Muhs are doing a fantastic job there and God is at work. We met staff and beneficiaries who are devoted to right living in Christ and recovery.

Where do these men come from (some places women)? Where do they go? Why aren't there more who embrace The Salvation Army as their church in their continuing pilgrimage?

Before we jump too quickly into negative responses, we should try to understand the issues and sort it out. Surely they're welcome at TSA...and needed.

Lord, help us to receive these loved ones to glorify you into the future. Thank you for entrusting them to us. Help them to know your will and good pleasure.

Ephesians 1:9 (NIV)
Eph 1:9 "And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ,"

Voiseys

Today we celebrated the service of Lt. Colonels Norman and Jeanne Voisey. They retire the first of February 2006, but we had their formal retirement programs today in Wooster, Ohio. These folks have done it for over 77 years combined and have done it with competence and integrity.

The dinner program was highlighted by tributes from Captain Ricardo Fernandez, the Voisey (adult) children and Major Tom Mack. Each spoke eloquently and humorously. It's obvious that the Voiseys have made a significant impact on many people.

I believe the Voiseys have taught us four things in particular:

1. Faith is a relationship.
2. God is omnipotent.
3. Success is local.
4. The measurement of success is faithfulness.

Thank you, Norm and Jeanne for allowing the Holy Spirit to live in you.

1 Timothy 5:17 (NIV)
1Ti 5:17 "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching."

Traveling with the NYSB

The NYSB is on the road again, this time to Wooster, Ohio. We found them at Newark Airport this morning on the same flight as ours. Have you seen their travel apparel?...very nice. Why should they look bad? As best I could tell, they were gentle with the stewards and stewardesses...of course.

They have a very active schedule this weekend in three concerts and Sunday meetings. They're also providing the public forum for the retirement of Lt. Colonels Norman and Jeanne Voisey. It'll be great. Congratulations to Major Mary West and team for making this all happen.

As you pray this weekend, pray for them. Their ministry reaches people we would otherwise not reach in God's name. They will delight God, stimulate faith and make us proud to be Salvationists (in a humble way).

Romans 15:17 (MSG)
Ro 15:17 "Looking back over what has been accomplished and what I have observed, I must say I am most pleased - —in the context of Jesus, I'd even say proud, but only in that context."

Academic Oversight Advisory Council

Sounds impressive, doesn't it. Well it is, but it's not one of those "ho-hum" groups that force you to caffeine up as you go in. No, it's an advisory council to our School for Officers' Training that provides direct, strategic counsel on academic matters.

In addition to key faculty and staff in attendance, we have representatives from Houghton College (the president no less), Roberts Wesleyan College and Alliance Theological Seminary in complete support. We also boast of a corps officer and a local officer (order of the founder), both of whom have been professional educators.

The agenda and dialogue is most stimulating and will impact our school for the short and long term. Each member is a blessing and brings their informed passion to the table with competence and faithfulness to God. The influence of these council members will be long lasting.

Psalms 89:7 (NIV)
Ps 89:7 "In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him."

Breakfast in Hartford

The Greater Hartford, CT SA held their annual civic meeting this morning at the Hartford Convention Center. Majors Bill and Lorraine Bamford and Captains Terry and Sue Wood have teamed to make a powerful ministry statement in this insurance capital of America.

Good people were recognized. Advisory Board leadership appropriately utilized. The Mayor of Hartford came, spoke and presented $2,000 to two specific SA programs in Hartford. The President of Trinity College spoke eloquently...and an ensemble from the New York Staff Band presented good brass music. By the way, the breakfast was good too.

Altogether, it was a blessing and very well done. In retrospect, we might have invited Cadets to observe...maybe next time.

John 21:12 (NIV)
Jn 21:12 "Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord."

Team Members

The choosing of a team is critical to the success of the team. In ministry, sometimes God allows us to select our team members. This is a privilege we must hold valuable and sacred. How do you do it?

Trust God...pray...trust God...pray...trust God...are you thinking with the mind of Christ yet?...pray...trust God...

The formula is less of a formula and more of a relationship. The closer we walk with God, the more certain we can be about our team choices...and other choices as well.

Why wouldn't we want to be intimate with the Savior, when He desires it for us both so much? Aha! The team starts with Him...now the membership can be built.

I spent the afternoon with one of God's choice team members. Thank you, Lord. Now we're getting somewhere.

2 Corinthians 9:5 (MSG)
2Co 9:5 "So to make sure there will be no slipup, I've recruited these brothers as an advance team to get you and your promised offering all ready before I get there. I want you to have all the time you need to make this offering in your own way. I don't want anything forced or hurried at the last minute."

Autumn Praises

For many years now the Montclair, NJ Citadel Band and Songsters have ushered in the Fall season with Autumn Praises. Such was the case this afternoon with a beautiful collection of brass and vocal pieces that brought delight to God and satisfied the souls of us all.

Brass soloists included Mike Baker - cornet, Andrew Baker - Tuba, Mark Baker - Trombone, Lindsay Waiksnoris - Soprano Voice, and Emilee Bennett - Soprano Voice. Aaron VanderWeele and Emilee Bennet also played a euphonium duet that was terrific. Excellence in music is the standard at the corps thanks to leaders like B/M Charles Baker, S/L Tom Schiebner and corps officers Majors Alastair and Carole Bate.

This all makes for a wonderful corps experience and is particularly thrilling when draped over the blessing of a full family corps and active Salvationists being true to their commitments. This is a five star corps worth visiting on any Sunday.

Psalms 100:1-2 (NIV)
Ps 100:1 "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs."

Perfect Wedding

So it took place today in Ridgewood, NJ...the wedding of Jennifer Groff and David VanderWeele. Did I mention it was perfect? The couple was magazine cover beautiful and the attendants could have been featured in the latest wedding magazine...at least the bridesmaids, that is...

Every wedding we go to, Carolyn and I rehearse our own wedding vows. From the perspective of 33 years, as great as the wedding gets, the marriage has the chance of improving by the minute, every minute. We just keep getting happier together.

Congratulations Jen & David...Happy trails to you...

Genesis 2:24 (NIV)
Ge 2:24 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

111

"Salvation Army moves into 111th country as work begins in Poland

THIS weekend (24, 25 September) The Salvation Army launches its work in Poland; the 111th country where the Movement is officially at work. We aim to build an Army of dedicated Salvationists, ready to move out to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity, says Major Cachelin (International Headquarters).

The new opening follows just a few days after Salvation Army work in Lithuania under the care of the Germany Territory received official recognition."

A growing Army...just like the one I want to belong to. If we're going to make the global and local impact that God is calling us to, we're going to need to expand aggressively. I'm in...You?

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)
Mt 28:18 "Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
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."

Strategic Planning

It sounds so good and it is generally a good idea. I think strategic thinking might, however, have the edge. Sure, we need a strategic plan, but when the plan is realized, it's the strategic thinking that will carry you forward.

Clearly, floating along won't get you where you need to go and just following others doesn't work unless they're going where you want to go. Here's where Lucy and Charlie Brown step in:

Luck asks Charlie,"On the great cruise ship of life C.B., do you put your deck chair in the front to catch a vision of what to expect or do you place your chair in the back to enjoy where you've come from?" Charlie Brown responds, "Actually, Lucy, I can't even get my deck chair unfolded."

Charlie Brown most often helps us with reality. How's your strategic plan coming?...

Psalms 20:4 (NIV)
Ps 20:4 "May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed."

Michael

Our Michael has been home with us for two weeks from his post in Afghanistan. He goes back tomorrow morning. We're glad he was home but are sad that he must leave already. I think he's had a good time. He's seen plenty of family, been to the corps and the CMT, got to his Nana's house and been seen traveling with a woman. (It's on the up and up.)

Our hopes for him include safe passage and safe duty over there. He hasn't said much, but you have the sense it's no picnic. We think he may return to his permanent post in Italy by March. We will be happy if that takes place.

Tonight I'm praying for him and our military in harm's way around the world. Please join me.

2 Timothy 2:1-4 (MSG)
2Ti 2:1 "So, my son, throw yourself into this work for Christ.
2 Pass on what you heard from me-—the whole congregation saying Amen!-—to reliable leaders who are competent to teach others.
3 When the going gets rough, take it on the chin with the rest of us, the way Jesus did.
4 A soldier on duty doesn't get caught up in making deals at the marketplace. He concentrates on carrying out orders."

Washington D.C.

We're again at the Commissioners' Conference meetings for a few days. (remember thieves - we still have three adults at home.) The people that meet here are some of the finest Salvationists I know. I'm not brown-nosing...none of them read this blog.

Each one of them have a deep desire to serve the Lord to their best ability and carry heavy SA responsibilities in the process. None of them have asked for their appointments, but have graciously accepted an appointment from the General to do so. In each of their ministries they continue to prove the abundance of God in every situation and for every requirement. They're good leaders.

Your prayer on their behalf will serve the purposes of God. I believe He has selected them through the auspices of TSA to be the leaders at this time for TSA in the USA.

1 Corinthians 4:1 (MSG)
1Co 4:1 "Don't imagine us leaders to be something we aren't. We are servants of Christ, not his masters. We are guides into God's most sublime secrets, not security guards posted to protect them."

Women's Ministries

Most Salvationists are women. It was said by Commissioner Andy Miller that if Railton had been accompanied by seven hallelujah lads, he would not have had anywhere near the success. I think he was right. Eliza Shirley was the one with the vision for TSA in America. It wasn't really in the interest of William Booth until after the teen age girl proved its viability.

Today's 'Army' is as loaded with women as it ever was and we're kidding ourselves if we miss this incredible strength among us...the women. Home League jokes aside, the women are keeping us in the ministry and are doing so with grace and great composure. TSA needs to stand tall, recognize the obvious and sort out the great partnership reality of our women towards our best future.

The women are too smart to make extraordinary demands of their ministry and reason that they don't need to take over to follow Christ. SA leaders must open a larger access to decision making by women and female discipleship initiatives. We will be stronger.

We have a way to go.

Genesis 1:27 (CEV)
Ge 1:27 "So God created humans to be like himself; he made men and women."

Profile XXVII

Kudos to the Greater New York Division and all who put together this annual musical delight. B/M Brian Bowen was featured with his music. His music has spoken to us for years. On this night we were reminded of the greatness of God in the many genres of music performed by The New York Staff Band, the Greater New York Youth Band, Chorus and Timbrels.

The gifts that God gives are meant to be used for His glory. The program finished with "My Strength, My Tower" from the Psalms as Brian shared with us. The music was a fitting end of the meeting and brought the audience to their feet in appreciation...Amazing...

Give your gifts in God's name. He has given them to you for this purpose.

James 1:17 (NIV)
Jas 1:17 "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Compassion

Jesus was marked by His compassion. He was ready to accept the most sinful situations with 'agape' love. The most marginalized were accepted by Him with His giving heart. There were a few occasions when He set people straight, like religious leaders who mocked Him by the way they blindly led their followers.

I hope we are Christ-like in this way and not quick to judge and condemn. We too often attempt to hold our people to a standard of holiness and in the process exact a well-intentioned, incompassionate, unholy discipline.

In the old days, bandsmen were sent out of the bandroom if they had a small dash of color on their socks or tie. It seems that we could keep an extra pair of socks or tie in the bandroom if that's so important. We've discouraged many in this way over the years.

I am concerned about even more significant failures or errors of choice. Yes, the word is sin. Make no mistake...but remember how Jesus responds when we do.

Let's observe and follow the Master in this with love.

John 13:34-35 (NIV)
Jn 13:34 "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Radical Obscurity

Major Mark Tillsley is one of the finest officers in TSA. His ministry through the years gives evidence of the faithfulness of God. In his message at the candidates' seminar last February, he spoke of a "ministry of radical obscurity" in which he detailed that we are often called to such in our pilgrimage.

Sometimes, ministry that is popular or overtly celebrated, garners our attention and interest. It's natural and even needed. The more common ministries are often found in the shadows of these more dramatized efforts.

In an attemt not to minimize either, can I say that most of us should be looking for the opportunities for sacrificial service that propbably won't make the reports in The Good News or any other great record. These opportunities are all around us and will glorify God in the same way as some of these others.

If it is not clear what God is calling you to, try something local...common...for regular people with needs...God will make the impact large...uncommon...and extraordinary. It's His record that counts.

Colossians 3:4 (MSG)
Col 3:4 "When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ."

Disasters

What a season...what a mess...what is going on?...what about TSA?


Romania - Floods - 70 dead - communities in disaray...SA on the job.

Pakistan/Kashmir - Earthquake - 30,000+ dead...SA on the job.

Peru - Earthquake - hundreds homeless - some communities destroyed...SA on the job.

Louisiana, Mississippi - thousands homeless - vast destruction...SA on the job.

India - Storm floods - 2,000+ deaths - despair prevalent...SA on the job.

Tsunami - massive destruction - 200,000+ dead...SA on the job.


Disasters happen. They happen to countries, communities, and they happen to families and individuals. We have to be on the job. We are the children of God who give His love and care and provision. We have the joy to not only be a part of reconstruction, but revitalization.

If a disaster has come upon your life, we are available and God is interested in you.

Matthew 11:28 (TEV)
Mt 11:28 "Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest."

Transmission

Thank you, Transmission for coming north to share in the ministry of On The Edge. Your presence and music facilitated the worship experience for each of us and simply brought us closer to God.

Transmission is a musical group from the Southern Territory, loaded with talent and a deep love for the Savior. They supported this special weekend in NYC with a high standard of blended musicianship and spirituality.

In all, the weekend was significant to many of us. These God encounters always are. These fellow pilgrims supported our quest. I know that God spoke to them as well. Thanks, again.

Acts 20:24 (TEV)
Ac 20:24 "But I reckon my own life to be worth nothing to me; I only want to complete my mission and finish the work that the Lord Jesus gave me to do, which is to declare the Good News about the grace of God."

Pakistan Earthquake

The death toll in Pakistan and surrounding areas is reported to be at 30,000. This is horrible. The people there will need as much help as we can muster...and you're not surprised that TSA is on the job.

The Salvation Army has served in Pakistan now for 122 years. Our officers and soldiers number in excess of 71,000. We can only hope that injuries and damages might be minimal for these brothers and sisters. We have no current information in hand. I expect that we will know more by Monday.

This I do know. Our people are at work in the recovery of the disaster. Support is being offered in terms of food, clothing, shelter, and counseling. It's what we do in these circumstances. We do it in the name of Christ and on His behalf. God...please help them.

Matthew 25:40 (KJV)
Mt 25:40 "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

On The Edge

This is an important weekend for certain young adults in the territory. Please be in prayer for them.

We call it "On The Edge". The intention is to connect deeply with these post high school Salvationists for them to sense the satisfying and challenging whole relationship with God. Nothing could be more important. It is life or death.

If you're coming, do so with an open heart and soulful preparation. God never disappoints. He desires to commune with you to make you complete. Come for it!

This generation is fully loaded to serve Christ like none before. Let us all aim to actualize this opportunity to God's delight. They're worth it.

1 Timothy 1:3-7 (NIV)
1Ti 1:3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer
4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work--which is by faith.
5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
6 Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk.
7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.

Gratitude

We're coming home...someone call our Allison H. to put the dishes in the dishwasher and sweep the kitchen floor.

Our hearts are full of gratitude today for God's love and constant provision. We have enjoyed His presence and teaching for these many days on tour. We have also benefited by the professional tour guides who kept us informed of the many aspects of culture and antiquity. We have learned much.

We are "most" grateful, (greek expression)for our hosts Majors Ed and Darlene Russell and Major Debbie Goforth. They were consummate in their care for us and amplified the experience to God's delight.

I am, finally, grateful to God for each one of the delegates for their individual contribution to the entire experience. We have forged lifetime memories and friendships that will serve the Lord through the years to come.

"I thank my God for every remembrance..."

Corinth

We've begun to call this the rock and roll tour. You stop to see some old rocks then get on the bus ready to roll. It is, of course, much better than that.

We were in Corinth on Monday. The city is well defined by the ruins which are being restored. Did I tell you that a company from Lima. Ohio is doing the restoration in Ephesus? Amazing...I can think of spots in Lima that need attention.

Back to Corinth, we were able to see the marks in both the walls and the roads, where Christians inscribed the Icthus symbol which is an acrostic for Jesus Christ, God and Savior and spells fish in Greek. You've seen the fish symbol on evangelical bumper stickers. The city is replete with sinful lifestyle indicators as you might expect from a reading of Corinthians.

It concludes our journey here, but informs our journey in Christ with a fresh understanding of the faithfulness of God and His followers. Glory!

"There hath no temptation taken you, but such as is common to man. God is faithful in that He will not allow you to be tempted above your ability, but will, with the temptation make a way of escape that you may be able to bear it." 1 Corinthians 10:13

Patmos & Ephesus

On the Lord's day, we met together for worship on the Isle of Patmos, only 50 yards from where John, received The Revelation. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the presence of God and consider the revelation of His love to each of us. We sang "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, O what a fortaste of glory divine..." Major Betty Israel sang "I'm in His hands," after her moving testimony of God's grace and we finished with "My Jesus, I love Thee." Unforgettable!

We read from Revelation, chapter 1 to be reminded of:
The Terms of the Revelation
The Trustee(s) of the Revelation
The Task and Triumph of the Revelation

Each was given the opportunity to offer their lives in committment to the revelation revealed and God was (is) glorified.

In the afternoon, we journeyed to Ephesus, Asia Minor (Turkey)for a visit to this ancient city. Here, John made his home in his last days and Paul visited more than once. Only 10-20% of the city has been unearthed, with more to go. We stood near the steps where Paul spoke, next to the library.

The final tour day will be in Corinth. We know a bit about that town.

"I know the plans I have for you..."

Rhodes

This was a good stop today. There isn't much reference to Paul, here, but to recognize the importance of this island in his day speaks to the reason he would have stopped here and made mention of it.

We're looking forward to Patmos and Ephesus on Sunday for obvious reasons.

All are well. No sea sickness that I know of, but blessings all around as we share in this spiritual journey.

"Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy (The Revelation), and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near." Rev. 1:3