Memorial Day 2006

As we visit Kensico each year, we celebrate the memory of Salvationists who have been called home and whose remains are buried in this beautiful SA section of the Kensico Cemetary. Many of the great hearts are remembered there including Evangeline Booth, Herbert Booth, Consul Booth-Tucker, Samuel Logan Brengle, Joe the Turk and more. When you walk these grounds, you walk through the pages of the history of TSA in America.

Our Territorial Leaders, Commissioners Lawrence and Nancy Moretz have always made it a priority to be there and participate in the service of remembrance. They enlist the SFOT Band and Chorus and the territorial cabinet leadership to make it a very special occasion and experience. The weather was perfect this year and God was honored by acknowledging Him and His provision of grace. Hallelujah!

Psalms 77:11 (NIV)
11 "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago."

Earthquake in Indonesia

TORONTO, May 27 /CNW/ - The Salvation Army has launched an immediate response after an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale struck the island of Java, flattening buildings in a densely populated area south of the city of Yogyakarta. The latest media reports indicate more than 2,800 people have been killed and thousands more injured.

The leader of The Salvation Army in Indonesia, Commissioner Johannes Watilete, as instructed key personnel to the site. The Salvation Army has a number of experienced emergency response teams in Indonesia, known as "Compassion in Action" units. The Army's medical team based in Semarang is establishing a medical/health tent in Bantul village.

The Salvation Army operates a Boys Home close to the impacted area. The Director, Major Amelia Tatilang, reports that a lot of houses and buildings have collapsed or suffered extensive damage. Speaking soon after the quake, Major Tatilang said, "The surrounding wall at the Boy's Home collapsed in the quake. The boy's bed rooms were damaged and also their function room."

The most desperate immediate need is for food, shelter, clothing and medicine. Donations can be made at www.SalvationArmy.ca or by calling
1-800-SAL-ARMY. Please designate your gift for the South Pacific and East Asia Disaster Fund.

1 Peter 4:11 (MSG)
11 "if words, let it be God's words; if help, let it be God's hearty help. That way, God's bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he'll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything - —encores to the end of time. Oh, yes!"

Open Lines

In most areas of life, the issue of communication is essential. When a marriage is doing well, it's advantaged by good communication. When an administrative team is functioning with effectiveness, communication is working. In your computer right now, there are software and hardware components that have to communicate for you to be on the internet.

Can you imagine having a relationship without communication? It's not possible...at least a positive relationship. This understanding, (if I'm communicating it correctly) begs the question, how we think we can have a relationship with God when we don't communicate with Him?

Our territory is launching a 24/7 prayer initiative with the commissioning weekend coming up soon. You can learn more by clicking on this link: http://www.armyonitsknees.org/ What do you think of the concept of prayer without ceasing?

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV)
16 "Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Joy

I hope you're experiencing the joy of Jesus today. He will delight in you and His joy will abound in you, if you want.

There are plenty of reasons today to be downcast or even passive. I call you to joy. Please don't allow your environment or circumstances to define you, especially if they're negative. Know the grace of God in His freshness and determine to experience and share the joy. Just think of your salvation and your Savior. Joy will begin to overwhelm you with hope and height and love.

This is God's design for each of us. He sees this potential in us and shares His joy without prejudice. Joy is as much a discipline as it is an experience.

1 John 1:3-4 (NIV)
3 "We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
4 We write this to make our joy complete."

Caring

How is it that we show our love for each other? Sure, there are plenty of ways, but the point is that you demonstrate your love. You don't simply talk about it or keep it to yourself.

We have good friends that love us. We know that because they show us. They help when we need help. They laugh with us and cry with us. They share their dreams and their families with us. By this they show that they love us and trust us.

Can there be anything more valuable? I think we are very wealthy when it comes to the good friends that are ours. I hope they see us in the same way. I'll work on showing them.

2 Thessalonians 2:13 (MSG)
13 "Meanwhile, we've got our hands full continually thanking God for you, our good friends-—so loved by God!God picked you out as his from the very start. Think of it: included in God's original plan of salvation by the bond of faith in the living truth."

Youth Councils

We have been hearing amazing accounts of Youth Councils this year. At the office yesterday and today there was continuous praise to God for the Youth Councils in Greater New York, Northern New England and Southern New England from this past weekend. Glory to God!

Phil Laeger was at GNY. Larry (the Major) Ashcraft was at NNE and Evan Hickman was at SNE. They weren't alone. Each had its own significant cast and each was invaded by the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!

I am so proud of our Salvationists. They witness to the presence of God no matter if they're still in their teens or early twenties. Don't let the experience evaporate. Place a marker somewhere in your life...and remember. Remember the visit of God so you'll recognize Him in even quieter and less public opportunities. Get to know Him. You won't regret it!

John 14:17 (MSG)
17 "This Friend is the Spirit of Truth. The godless world can't take him in because it doesn't have eyes to see him, doesn't know what to look for. But you know him already because he has been staying with you, and will even be in you!"

Finger prints

Each of us have unique finger prints. That fact alone is mind-boggling. Law enforcement is so convinced of this truth that the presence of your finger prints means you were there...undeniably.

God has designed us individually for purpose. His plan is as individual as our finger prints. You and you alone have a specific role to play or live for God. The great sin then is to wait too long before you make that holy connection to do what He designed you to do. I don't want to miss one minute of His calling upon my life. There is urgency in this understanding. There is urgency in our living.

The nail prints in his hands provide for the Master's purpose through the finger prints on your hand.

Mark 6:12 (MSG)
12 "Then they were on the road. They preached with joyful urgency that life can be radically different;"

Liberty Pole Way Corps

This is a great name for a corps. It's in Rochester, NY and they're using what was the old Rochester Citadel Corps building. It's alive. It's hot. It's being infused by the Holy Spirit. As Major Charles Deitrick leads the city, (Pastor) Reggie Cox is the corps officer. He's a dynamic evangelist who has by the grace of God attracted 200+ in their holiness meeting on Sunday mornings.

Today the people were rockin' and 10 new Junior Soldiers were enrolled. The kids were beautifully dressed in JS uniforms and the certificates were appropriately framed. Local officers were aplenty and each looked good in their uniforms as well.

TSA has always done well where the local culture is featured in the worship. This true all over the world. It's working here. God bless you Liberty Pole Way Corps!

1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
12 "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."

Lt. Colonel Sharon E. Berry

When the good ones retire, how will we manage? Lt. Colonel Sharon Berry orchestrated a perfect retirement service today at the School For Officer Training. It finished in 55 minutes. Her retirement begins on June 1, 2006.

She has been an incredible servant of God in these 42 years with most of her ministry at the SFOT. She served two terms in Africa and another in Russia. God has been her constant companion and The Salvation Army is better for her.

Her words today were of gratitude to God and the many people who have supported her throughout the years. Her life has spoken so convincingly that what she said today was "icing on the cake." I celebrate her ministry and witness to the role model she has been to me.

Her verse:
Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
19 "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Rome, NY

Captains Brett and Jessica DeMichael have done it again. Their annual community meeting was tonight and it was a great success. Corps groups participated. The place looked good. The mayor gave a proclamation. The others award was given out. Nice job.

I was particularly impressed with their insistence on communicating the gospel in the midst of this strong community program. They, of course, will give credit to their team, including staff and advisory board. Their building an Army as they build the Army up in the perspective of these community leaders present. Job well done!

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (MSG)
11 "So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it."

No Appointment Day

Today was amazing: no appointments. This is definitely a rare occurrence. I can't remember the last day that happened at the office. I didn't have any trouble filling the day and even missed lunch by remaining focused on the job.

Some days, the whole day is filled to the brim with appointments. These are the days work goes home at night in order to stay on top of things. Most days are a mixture of the two with a few unexpected appointments scattered throughout. I have learned to accept these unexpected appointments as divine interruptions. They often bring unplanned joys and bumps that turn into satisfaction.

How did your day turn out?

Psalms 37:23 (MSG)
23 "Stalwart walks in step with God; his path blazed by God, he's happy."

Move Week

I heard an expression that this was move week in our territory. I guess I've heard it before, but it struck me differently today. Perhaps this might better be called rumor week, when some of our more creative minds imagine just how the annual rotation might take place.

I've now sat on most sides of the table on the officer changes in the territory. Let me give you my perspective:

1. It's a holy process - prayer abounds in every aspect of the plan
2. There is a plan - It is dynamic and can change in a minute, but there is a direction for appointments and officers.
3. There is a conscientious attempt to serve both the officers (family included) and the appointments
4. There is a strategy to make appointments longer.
5. No appointments are punitive.
6. If an appointment is wrong, every effort is made to find a resolution.
7. Most appointment changes are driven by the desire of the officers themselves.
8. We trust God.

Why not insert yourself in the process and pray for the people affected by the coming changes?

1 Timothy 2:7 (MSG)
7 "This and this only has been my appointed work: getting this news to those who have never heard of God, and explaining how it works by simple faith and plain truth."

Ambassador for Prayer

I continue to celebrate our Territorial Ambassadors. Today, the Ambassador for Prayer, Major Janet Munn, led the cabinet (TC/TPWM/CS/TSWM/SecPer/BA/SecPro...etc) in a time of spiritual formation...and so we grow in grace.

While I'm not given to personal exposure in small groups, I find myself a willing participant in these and a beneficiary. Thank you, Major Munn. You're a gift to the territory.

Isaiah 13:4 (MSG)
4 Thunder rolls off the mountains like a mob huge and noisy -— Thunder of kingdoms in an uproar, nations assembling for war. God-of-the-Angel-Armies is calling his army into battle formation.

Lotus Notes

If you're a SA computer user, it's likely that you use Lotus Notes. Some of our people are happy about what the software does for them and others are not so happy. Everyone's entitled to their opinion. In our territory it is the official form of written communication and it works just fine.

Isn't it amazing how much quicker we tend to respond to messages and how much quicker we expect others to respond to us? In the old days, (that makes me laugh just to type it) we used to allow a couple of days to pass between letters. There was something healthy about taking some time to form your thoughts and be certain of the correct response. For some letters, we were told to go ahead and write them, put them in a drawer for a day or two and then read it again to see if you should have sent it. Most of those letters were never sent, because time had healed emotions and wisdom raised its head.

So take time to read your e-mail today and don't always think you need to jump on the answer. A few moments in between can be therapeutic.

Proverbs 14:30 (MSG)
30 "A sound mind makes for a robust body, but runaway emotions corrode the bones."

Dedication

It is a most precious moment, when parents bring their child to the altar to dedicate them to the Lord. We had this joy today in duplicate. Jacob Matthew Knaggs (my grandson) and Emma Kay Stoker (my great niece) were dedicated in a beautiful meeting at the SFOT.

The kids were appropriate and the parents were a blessing. Their composure in presenting the joys of their lives - their children to the Lord was exciting and refreshing. Simultaneously the child and parents are dedicated and marked as belonging to God. This is very good.

I'm proud of each of them.

Luke 2:30 (NIV)
30 "For my eyes have seen your salvation,"

Mothers' Day 2006

Tomorrow we celebrate another Mothers' Day. It's a wonderful day to connect, affirm and remember our mothers. My mother has always had an immeasurable impact on my life in quintessential ways. She even reads blogs occasionally.

Carolyn is an amazing mother who continues to show us all the deep devotion of her heart for her children and grandchild. She has an extraordinary capacity to love and is an inspiration to us all.

Connect...affirm...and remember. At least, call.

Thanks, Moms.

Luke 2:19 (NIV)
19 "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

National Commander's Installation

So tomorrow night National Leaders Commissioners Israel and Eva Gaither will be installed by General Shaw Clifton. We are fortunate to have them home and expect that we should have a great meeting at the Centennial Memorial Temple. All of the US Territorial Leaders are here for the occasion and we're expecting a good crowd.

Why not come if you still can and celebrate the grace of God in the midst of significant leadership changes. It is the first visit of the new General to the USA as General.

We'll be there and will be looking for you.

Philippians 4:4 (MSG)
4 "Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him!"

Partners For Life

Marriage is a great invention. Sometimes we hear that happily ever after is a myth and unrealistic. I beg to differ. I've found that I love my wife today more than ever. We have a growing relationship and I'm excited about the future with her.

We don't just get along or tolerate each other's company. We are deeply in love and enjoy every moment we can be together. Ask her if you want. She'll smile and say the same things.

If you're thinking of getting married or in a marriage relationship, just know that marriage can be a dream come true. If you're not quite there, see a helper to guide you on track. Nothing better.

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

God's Standards

We are good at understanding the moral decisions of our daily walk and appreciate a holy life as God has prescribed. What about the collective SA? Do we manage and direct the affairs of TSA with the same expectations?

In some of our employment we seem to only be able to pay minimum wage. Why wouldn't we do better than the minimum allowed and begin to think in terms of a living wage?

In some of our employment we seem only to be able to hire a person part time, when full time would mean medical benefits. Why wouldn't we consider medical benefits for part time employees or hire them for enough hours to qualify for these benefits if they want.

In some of our employment we are not required to provide workman's compensation because some states allow not-for-profits to be exempt. Why wouldn't we have a plan to do it because it's right?

In these things we know that God's ways are different than our ways. I know the answers to my questions better than most people would. Perhaps the real question is why don't we do better...and better...and better to the glory of God.

Acts 3:19 (MSG)
19 "Now it's time to change your ways! Turn to face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you,"

Give and Take

Relationships require giving and receiving. If you're always giving or always receiving, there's a problem with your relationship.

I find it more natural to give than receive. I don't see it as a particularly holy aspect of my character, but I shy from a compliment or being waited upon. I know, Carolyn, you take care of me in more ways than imaginable. I've learned to appreciate and value our giving and receiving.

Tonight, some good friends gave me a surprise word of thanks and a few presents as well. This has really blessed my soul more than they could know. Please, I'm not lobbying for accolades or presents, but this particular moment with these particular people for whom I have the utmost respect has humbled me considerably.

Thank you, Lord for friends and associates who have given me their sincere friendship, more valuable than silver or gold.

Proverbs 3:14 (MSG)
14 "She's worth far more than money in the bank; her friendship is better than a big salary."

CSM Ron Waiksnoris

Yes. I got it right. Not only TMS Ron Waiksnoris (Territorial Music Secretary) or B/M Ron Waiksnoris (NYSB Bandmaster), but Corps Sergeant Major Ron Waiksnoris of the Montclair, NJ Citadel Corps.

We were there to witness the public installment of the new CSM by corps officer Major Alastair Bate. The CSM is a dedicated man of God with a love for his corps and their people. Previously, he had been Y.P. Bandleader and Sunday School Teacher. He may still teach Sunday School. He's the kind of man that doesn't sit around waiting for others to do the work. He steps in with the appropriate preparation and giftedness to accomplish the tasks.

Montclair is one of those five star corps moving in the right direction with a new leader such as the CSM. This may go under the category of "if you want to get the job done, give it to some one who is very busy. They'll always get it done."

Thanks, CSM. The corps is fortunate to have you.

John 6:29 (MSG)
29 Jesus said, "Throw your lot in with the One that God has sent. That kind of a commitment gets you in on God's works."

Lt. Colonels Norman and Louisa Wood

We enjoyed being a part of the Empire State Divisional Soldiers' Rally and tribute to their divisional leaders on the occasion of their retirement. Everything was perfect. We weren't surprised when all that was said brought glory to God. You can't speak about the Woods without honoring God.

Each of their three sons gave remarks about their parents. They were terrific. Commissioners Moretz were present as well with Commissioner Lawrence Moretz giving an inspiring message. Many of us stood in re-commitment to ministry in God's name.

They're staying on until the end of June to help TSA. Who's surprised? God bless the Woods.

"Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life." Rev. 2:10

Stewardship

Stewardship is, of course, more than tithing. It is also more than simply finances. We should understand it as the Godly use of His resources.

I am compelled tonight to think about financial stewardship and Salvationism. The Orders and Regulations for soldiers has always had a firm stance on stewardship and the concerns of indebtedness. Early on, the regulations permitted the dismissal of a soldier for indebtedness. Stealing, or misusing SA funds would have been a reason for immediate dismissal.

I'm glad that we are not on a stewardship campaign to release our people for their poor financial choices or even a defendable circumstance of weak finances. I do believe that we need to do our best to reflect the holiness of God in these important areas of our lives. I'm glad blogging is free.

2 Chronicles 8:15 (MSG)
15 "The king's directions to the priests and Levites and financial stewards were kept right down to the fine print—no innovations—including the treasuries."

In case you haven't heard...

EFFECTIVE 1 AUGUST

The appointment of Colonels James and Carolyn Knaggs to the Australia Eastern Territory, announced on 15 February 2006, is hereby rescinded. Colonel James Knaggs is appointed as Territorial Commander of the Australia Southern Territory and Colonel Carolyn Knaggs as Territorial President of Women’s Ministries. They are promoted to the rank of commissioner on 1 and 2 August respectively. They will succeed Commissioners Ivan and Heather Lang who will be retiring from active service.

"In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy paths." Proverbs 3

Congo Brazzaville - Final

Praise God for His faithfulness!

Our prayers have been answered in abundance and God is glorified. Words aren't going to convey the fullness of my heart over the presence of God in these days. Bill and I are dazzled by the proof of His interest in the Congo Brazzaville Territory. We salute Commissioners Mfon and Ime Akpan for their holy leadership of this vineyard. They are exceptional and I am honored to call them friends.

The night at the SFOT was inspiring. All of the cadets came to the mercy seat to refresh their committments to the Lord. The area-wide holiness meeting was standing room only in a 3,000 seat hall. It's their version of the CMT, only twice the size. The meeting was glorious with many groups participating. The altar call resembled the flow of tributaries in the aisles to the river of the water of life at the mercy seat. Hallelujah!

The final program featured many music groups including their territorial band, songsters and timbrels. Their proficiency was superb and their spirit infectous. Bill gave an inspiring word on the value of music in TSA. He has been the perfect guest here. The people love him and respect him...just like at home.

The glory belongs to God. Our meager offerings were given in His name. He multiplied our loaves and fish...again.

"Follow me and I will make you fishers of men and women and children." Jesus