Together
Friday, May 30, 2008
{Ephesians 4:1-5:2}
1As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.7But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8This is why it[a] says:
"When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men."[b]
9(What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions[c]? 10He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
14Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.
20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin"[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
*******
I don't know about you, but when I was growing up, one of the best trilogies, by far, was Disney's the Mighty Ducks (D3 was a little lame, but still). In one of the earlier movies, Emilio Estevez decided that in order to take his team from a bunch of good individual players to a working unit, he was going to tie a rope around them and make them skate as one. They fall, Goldberg farts, but they eventually get it.
In Ephesians 4, Paul really starts to build on this theme of working together. Having started in chapter 2 about Gentiles and Jews being one in Christ, Paul starts to drive the point home, really throughout chapters 4, 5 and even some of 6. See, here's the thing: encouraging each other, sharing the truth in love, building each other up as believers is really important. If we don't work together, we aren't going to get anywhere.
Take some time to read the Scripture again. Read it slowly, but as you read, think of the people that you're going to hang out with this weekend at church. Think of as many people as you can; think of their names, ages, families, etc. As you think of them, know that these are the people that we are called to bear with in love (v. 2). They are the people we are called to become mature with (v. 13), build up in love (v. 16), speak the truth to (v. 25), etc.
Here's something you can take with you this weekend: before you say something, ask "Is this going to build up those who hear it?" If not, shut up. Forgive when wronged, and live a life of LOVE, not hate, rage, anger or bitterness. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you say and do, and ask God to prepare your heart before you go.
Bless the Lord! Bless each other!
Posted By: Anonymous at 1:35 PM : Link : 0 Comments
STOP THE TRAFFIK
Thursday, May 29, 2008
In an email sent out on Sunday, May 25, anti-human trafficking group Stop the Traffik unveiled some new resources to help communities identify a trafficked person. Coming out some time in June, Stop the Traffik will release their Stop the Traffik Community Action Pack against sex trafficking. According to the email:"It will have ideas for schools, community groups, businesses, suggestions on what to look for and what you can do on your street.
The community action pack will involve raising awareness in schools and local groups, mapping what’s happening in your community, carefully gathering relevant intelligence and building local partnerships with your council, police and social and health care services. Information on what is actually happening in communities is desperately needed by the authorities to STOP THE TRAFFIK in your area."
By releasing this Action Packs, they are also kicking off what they're calling Stop the Traffik Community Action against Sex Trafficking groups (Stop the Traffik CAST Groups).
Again according to the email:
"These action groups are made up of all sorts of people from a community who want to engage in this difficult area of sex trafficking.
This will be a group that is willing to work long term rather than see instant results. But with STOP THE TRAFFIK CAST groups working across many countries will create an invaluable picture of what activity is going on. Together we will accumulate information that can be used by police and other authorities to rescue victims of trafficking and prosecute the traffickers — not just in your community, but across trafficking routes. This will be a groundbreaking movement, the first of its kind.
Is this something you are willing to do? Talk to others in your community, office, street, neighbourhood, pub, or other local gatherings to see if you can commit to this."
Do you want to be part of something like this? Then keep your eyes peeled at stopthetraffik.org. See what's happening. Also, check out some of the Army's Human Trafficking initiatives to see how you can get involved (stophumantraffic.com is a good one).
Posted By: Anonymous at 10:07 AM : Link : 0 Comments
Whosoever
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
The Salvation Army has 11 doctrines that are the basis, or summary, of its beliefs. For some, especially those outside the church, doctrines may seem to be nothing more than extremely conservative, harsh statements designed to accept some and bar others from being a part of their religious group. Don't think of doctrine this way. That's a ridiculously horrible way to think about it. Doctrines, being a vehicle for us to condense and densify (I just made that word up) our beliefs, are actually meant to be statements of Truth, Reality, Life as it really is.
One of the doctrines of the Army, number 6 to be exact, says "We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, has by His suffering and death, made an atonement for the whole world, so that whosoever will may be saved."
If some of that seemed to be vaguely familiar, it's because it's partly based on one of the most quoted verses ever: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever (or 'whosoever') believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).
Camp out on that word 'whoever'. It may be hard to really understand the depth of this, but realize that when Christ died, it was for everyone. I know I've said this a few months before, but I came to truly realize this when I was driving home on the highway through downtown Chicago. As I was passing all the buildings, the cars, and the hundreds of people all that represented, I was hit with the reality that Jesus died for all of them, not just some of them.
Just as 1 John 2:2 says: "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for the sins of the whole world."
The Army's Handbook of Doctrine points out that because Jesus died for everyone, when need to keep that in mind when we evangelize (Handbook of Doctrine, page 112). In other words, just as Jesus said in Matthew 28, we must go out to the entire world to preach the news that God, through Jesus, has made a way for people to be in right relationship with Him, namely Jesus' death and resurrection. Keep that in mind as you go and hang out with, well, whoever.
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:05 PM : Link : 0 Comments
International Emergency Services provides training to fifty local relief workers in Myanmar (Burma)
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
The following article, from the Salvation Army's international website, describes the Army's current relief work in Myanmar (Burma) since cyclone Nargis hit. According to one CNN article posted on May, 5, the death toll has reached 15,000 people. Please take some time to not only read the article below to find out what the Army's doing, but educate yourself on the issue so that you can find out how to help (Prayer, donations, short term missions, etc). Also, visit the Army's international website to find out what the Army is doing in China as a result of the earthquake.
*******
MAJOR Mike Caffull, The Salvation Army's International Emergency Services Field Operations Officer, has arrived safely in Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar. After debriefing local leaders and learning something of the initial relief efforts, he was asked to meet with 50 local relief team members. The workers were keen to receive training on how they should conduct assessments and shape plans for the next phase of the relief effort. A training course was immediately scheduled, using resources developed for Salvation Army International Emergency Services training programmes.
Major Caffull reports: ‘Relief teams have conducted three phases of relief distribution using locally-purchased supplies. Following the initial distribution of four-day food ration packs, teams returned to distribute tarpaulins to provide some protection from the elements and again with supplies of clothing. It is encouraging that our teams are concerned to do their very best and work to common standards, and it was good to be able to respond to their request for training.’
During the next few days team members will take their new skills, assess the needs of the local community and determine the next steps of the relief effort. This will include clarifying the availability of in-country supplies. Media reports that incoming supplies are being confiscated are of concern and Salvation Army leaders are determined that any goods they arrange to be brought into Myanmar can be tracked through to their intended beneficiaries. The viability of obtaining goods shipped from abroad is still being assessed.
Commissioner David Bringans, The Salvation Army's Territorial Commander for Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar, reports: ‘Our local personnel have been able to travel out from Yangon about six hours south and into the impacted areas. The suspicions surrounding incoming relief workers have been well publicised, so as our teams move into areas where The Salvation Army has no existing presence they are having to operate very sensitively.'
Major Cedric Hills, International Emergency Services Coordinator, comments: ‘We give thanks for Major Mike Caffull’s safe arrival and for the positive spirit he has encountered among the local relief personnel. The next few days will be significant as the team expands its assessment. Photos recently received highlight the terrible destruction in the area and our efforts continue to be focused on supporting those in greatest need.’
Taken from the Salvation Army's International website. You can also view pictures of the Army's relief work by clicking here.
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:19 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Band of Survivors 2008 Team Announced!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Hey all! Just to keep to the dates, here is the Band of Survivors team for 2008. Please congratulate and encourage them. Praise God!
Students
Liz Brundige - Rockford Temple
Lemard Fields - Englewood
Maggie Garcia - La Villita
Raven Gougis - Mt. Greenwood/Blue Island
Ryan Gougis - Mt. Greenwood/Blue Island
Lindsay Hall - Aurora
Moteka Harris - Englewood
Lilly Robles - La Villita
Lisa Rodriguez - Irving Park
Alejandra Salic - Rockford Temple
Ricardo Tellez - La Villita
Leaders
Audrey Hickman - Oak Brook Terrace
Stephen Rivero - Oak Brook Terrace
Andres Villatoro - Rockford Temple
Interns
Kirsten Aho - CFOT/Norridge
Amanda Keene - Mt. Greenwood/Blue Island
Mike Steinsland - Mayfair
Praise God! Please pray for them as they prepare for an intense month of discipleship! God is good!
Also, there are still 3 student spots available. If you would like come along for the ride this summer, you still have time. Download the application (click here) and turn it in to DHQ by Friday, May 30. If you have any questions, please email me at Nathan_Irvine@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Peace!
Posted By: Anonymous at 6:39 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Incomparably Great Power For Us Who Believe
On Wedseday, we took a look at the Scipture in Philippians 3 where Paul talks about, among other things, poop (in the NIV, rubbish; see verse 8). He was talking about those who put confidence in the "flesh", or in themselves, as a way of being made right with God. Certain people thought that in order to have a right relationship with God, where all barriers and sin are removed, one needed to be circumcised (a command God gave Abraham in the Old Testament; see Genesis 17). Paul said this was ridiculous, stating that the only way to be made right with God was through faith in Jesus, and thus the only thing we can be confident in is Jesus' death and resurrection.
At the end of this passage, Paul says, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead" (verses 10-11).
The resurrection from the dead.
The resurrection is the pinacle of a relationship with Jesus. In Romans 6, Paul writes that when we are buried with Christ (imagery for dying to sin; leaving that life through Christ), we are raised from the dead. He goes on to say that being raised from the dead is how we live a new life:
"We were therefore buired with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of God the Father, we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:4).
And that's the thing. God's resurrection is not only about going to heaven. God, through Christ, defeated death so that we could live new lives, and that life starts now! The resurrection of Jesus works now, today, in your situation.
In Ephesians 1, Paul writes, in a different way, about how the power of God, "[which] is like the working of his mighty strength, 20which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms" (verse 19b-20). Just before that Paul says that that power is available for us, for those who believe in Christ.
So, know that the power of God, which is like the power he used to resurrect Christ from the dead, is available if you believe.
Know that the resurrection means freedom from sin, and that that freedom starts now.
Posted By: Anonymous at 6:05 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Salvation Army 2008 Photo Contest
To all photographers:
The Salvation Army 2008 Photo Contest -
May 6th - June 9th - Enter Today!
Purpose
To build and maintain an active library of photos from across the country that will be made available on the Red Shield Tool Kit as a resource for all local Salvation Army units.
We are looking for images from your local unit that tell a story about the many ways The Salvation Army helps people every day. Particular areas of interest include disaster relief, youth services, summer camp, adult rehabilitation, housing, evangelism, homeless outreach, music programs, angel tree, and utility assistance.
By participating in The Salvation Army's 2008 photo contest, you will help build a much-needed resource that will make it easier for us all to continue, "Doing the Most Good." And three winners will be awarded special prizes.
Key Dates
- Tuesday, May 6 Contest launches
- Monday, June 9 Contest closes
- Monday, June 16 Judges select the winners
- Tuesday, June 17 Winners are contacted
- Friday, June 20 All "on-brand" images are uploaded to the Red Shield Tool Kit photo library v
Submitting Images
You must obtain signed model releases from everyone appearing in your photos. The consent-to-publish form should be loaded on the FTP site with your images.
All images and forms will be uploaded to a private FTP site. All images submitted for the contest should be hi-res EPS, TIFF, or JPEG files.
Submitting images on our FTP site is easy:
On a PC - Option #1
Right-click on the START MENU and select "Explore." In the address window, type or paste the FTP link and then hit the enter key. The window viewed contains the FTP site contents.
Link for Salvation Army FTP site:
ftp://photo:army@ftp.richards.com/photo/
On a PC - Option #2
Go to Start | Run and copy or type the FTP link in the "connect" box
On a Mac
Select "Connect to Server" from the "Go" menu in finder.
Type afp://ftp.richards.com and select "Connect"
Enter user name: photo
User password: army
Note: The username and password must be lowercase with no spaces.
When the user volume mounts on the desktop, go into the sub-folder named photo. From there, you will find a folder labeled with the name of your division. Please place the following in your division's folder:
1. The images you wish to submit
2. A signed consent to publish form
3. A word document containing your contact information and an inventory list of the photo file names you've uploaded.
Our judges will review all images submitted.
Prizes
First, second, and third place winners will receive a digital camera (Valued at $500).
Posted By: Anonymous at 1:07 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Youth Alive Forum
We will be your hands, we will be your feet...
In response to the devastating shootings in our nation's schools, a prime example being the Chicago Public School shootings, the Chicago Midwest Corps is having a community prayer walk to reach out to the neighborhood. It should be a great way to listen to God's heart and mend a hurting and dying land.
This is all apart of the Youth Alive Weekend that the Midwest Corps is hosting on Friday, June 13 - Sunday, June 15. On Saturday, there will be an open-mic forum to talk about gang violence, relationships, personal development , and a family-friendly pre-Father's day party. The weekend will close out with a youth rally on Sunday which is aimed to challenge youth to make a difference in the community through a powerful message from the Word of God. There will be special guest speakers, musical groups and dance ministries.
For more info, or to register, contact Dwight Hall by email (dwight_hall@usc.salvationarmy.org) or phone (312.733.4801). Click on the flyer to download a copy of one, and don't forget to take a look at the schedule.
What do you say? Let's reach a hurting and lost world.
Posted By: Anonymous at 9:27 AM : Link : 0 Comments
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Dear Friends,
In the past few years, God has done awesome things in terms of creating new training opportunities in our Division. Band of Survivors is one of them. This month-long, intense discipleship and mission school will change you as you seek the Lord and grow in Him through the following: daily cell groups, 24/7 prayer shifts, corporate worship times, Salvationism classes, evangelism training, spiritual gifts training, supporting the local Corps, and much more.
Because we want to make sure this amazing opportunity is taken advantage of (in a good way..), the application deadline has been extended, but not for much longer. If you want in, you MUST have your application at DHQ by Friday, May 30th 2008.
Click here to download an application. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at Nathan_Irvine@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:37 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Blood+Fire Supply Co.
We've made a little deal about this company a while ago, but they're worth bringing up again. Blood+Fire Supply Co. is a Salvation Army clothing line out of Australia. Not only do they have cool designs (see below), but they're fair trade too. They do some touring, but nothing to the midwest is on the docket for the near future. So, you might want to check out their website to do some buying...
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:29 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Any refuse, as the excrement of animals, offscouring, rubbish, dregs, etc
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
[Philippians 3:1-11]
1Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. 2Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. 3For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.
7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
The title speaks for itself, doesn't it? Well, in case you missed the connection, here it is: In this passage, the author, Paul, starts by warning people to not become like "those mutilators of the flesh" - people who were teaching that circumcision (a command in the Old Testament as a sign of covenant to God; see Genesis 17) was still a necessary part of being made right with God even though Jesus was in the picture.
This had enormous implications for Paul - most importantly it meant that people were glorying in themselves and in their life for saving and redeeming faith, which meant that they weren't putting all their faith in Christ. In other words, they were hopeful in themselves.
So Paul says, okay, fine. Let's say salvation (forgiveness of sins, being changed from the inside out by the regeneration of the Holy Spirit) is based on my works. Guess what: I have some pretty sweet qualifications, but it still doesn't cut it (see the list he gives in verses 4-6).
Our salvation comes from God, through Christ Jesus, alone (verse 9). Our righteousness, or right standing with God, is available to us through Jesus' death and resurrection, not our good deeds or titles. And thus we need to boast in Jesus, not ourselves! (see verse 3)
Paul knew this so well that he called the list of things in verses 4-6 rubbish. Now, to me rubbish sounds a little too polite. It doesn't quite get the point across.
The Greek does a good job: dregs, refuse; any refuse, as the excrement of animals, offscouring, rubbish.
It's gross!!! Compared to Christ and his surpassing greatness, all of those other things are nothing but poop. Yes, poop. Refuse. Excrement.
Take some time to praise God for the glorious way He's given to us to be made right with Himself, to have sins forgiven, and new life possible! Amen?!
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:02 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Go Where You See Need
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Each week we try to post a profile of a Salvationist, past or present (nothing future, yet). The hope is that by looking at their life of service and submission to God's glorious life we might inspired to greater Kingdom living. Take a read through this profile (largely taken from the Army's international heritage website) and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you how you could reflect Christ to the world.
With that in mind, meet Hetty Hill (Hetty is short for Hettillina, just for your information); a Captain from the UK around the 1950's. In all seriousness, what is striking about her story (which I just read this morning) is that she 1) Saw a need in her community, and 2) Did something about it.
In Hetty Hill's heyday (2 points for alliteration?), the Salvation Army in the UK organized a door-to-door donation program named Harvest Festival. One day, Captain Hill was making her rounds when she came to the house of Mr. and Mrs. Rawlence. After being welcomed in and catered to with a little snack, Captain Hill quicly came to the realization that the Rawlence's were indeed Christian folk. And after some conversation, the Rawlence's revealed to the Captain a need which they though the Captain and the Salvation Army might be able to help with:
Mrs. Rawlence pressed, "Captain, will you people do something for the dear Gypsy people around here, especially for the boys and girls? I feel sure they are searching for something higher, and I believe, if you will, that you people can help them" (taken directly from the International Heritage Centre website).
Up to this point, Captain Hill had no idea that not too far from the Rawlence home lay an encampment of Gypsies. After leaving the Rawlence home, she felt that she needed to do something, and within days she rounded up a group from her Corps to do an Open Air meeting in the camp. The story goes that as the bandmaster and Corps members were singing their heads off, the Captain and her Lieutenant went around and made visits to each hut.
They were welcomed into one mud-floored home belonging to a new mother of a three-day-old infant and her mother. The Captain reportedly shared God's love with them, and the response of the grandmother is so priceless that I had copy it verbatim from the International Heritage Website: "Hetty talked to the Mother about God's love whilst the Grandma looked on with great pride. 'You know lady,' said Grandma, 'it has been just like Heaven tonight with your lovely band to come here. You see, nobody, only the nurse and doctor ever comes down here. Please do come again.' Then Hetty took the new baby into her arms and offered prayer."
She knew that she and her camp were rejected by society. No one bothered to visit, to talk, to bring something like Heaven to them.
The challenge is that we must be willing to step outside of ourselves, our circle of friends, and go to the places we know are hurting. And many times, these places aren't very far from us. We don't have to go half way around the world to find someone in need.
They could be in your class.
They could be just a couple of doors down.
They could be a few lunch tables away.
The reality is, you know there's that one girl that no one talks to, they only talk about her. And it's never anything nice.
Or, maybe you approach people, but you're only there physically. Your body's there, but you struggle to actually care about who they are or what they're saying (This, personally, is a hard one for me).
The key in approaching those in need, anyone really, is that we must do it in love. We must genuinely love people. So, ask the Lord to open your eyes to the situations around you. Ask Him to fill you with love for them. Ask Him to give you the boldness to evangelize and the Words to speak.
I dare you. Pray it, meaningfully pray it, and watch God act. Be ready. Get set. Here we go.
(Taken and adapted from The Salvation Army's International Heritage Centre's website)
Posted By: Anonymous at 10:27 AM : Link : 0 Comments
2008 Commissioning & Youth Weekend
Monday, May 19, 2008
What: The Salvation Army's USA Central Territory's 2008 Commissioning & Youth Weekend.
Why: Feel like you're drifting? Wondering how you can plug-in and connect with others who want to make a difference? Start by attending iConnect and find your place in the Mission!
Who: Special guests include Caedmon's Call, The Singing Company, Ronnie Caldwell, Joe Castillo, Great Lakes Ministries, Kidz Blitz Live, Bill Booth Theater Company, Chicago Staff Band and the God's Fellow Worker's session!
When: Friday, June 6 - Sunday, June 8
Where: The Star Plaza; Merrillville, IN; 800 East 81st Avenue
How: If you want to go, check with your Corps Officer to see if a group is going from your Corps. You should be able to register with through your Corps Officer if there is a group going. If not, check the 2008 Commissioning & Youth Weekend website to register. And, of course, RSVP to the Facebook invite...
Extras: The Singing Company Presents: The Mercy Seat Sessions
On the Friday night of Commissioning, at 10:00pm, the Singing Company will release their new full length album, free of charge to all registered guests. It's going to be an awesome time of fun, fellowship and worship. Also, there will be some sweet new T-Shirts for sale! Come out and support us!
Posted By: Anonymous at 12:58 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Friday, May 09, 2008
Psalm 25
Of David.
1[a] To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;
2 in you I trust, O my God.
Do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
3 No one whose hope is in you
will ever be put to shame,
but they will be put to shame
who are treacherous without excuse.
4 Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
5 guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
6 Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love,
for they are from of old.
7 Remember not the sins of my youth
and my rebellious ways;
according to your love remember me,
for you are good, O LORD.
8 Good and upright is the LORD;
therefore he instructs sinners in his ways.
9 He guides the humble in what is right
and teaches them his way.
10 All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful
for those who keep the demands of his covenant.
11 For the sake of your name, O LORD,
forgive my iniquity, though it is great.
12 Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD ?
He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
13 He will spend his days in prosperity,
and his descendants will inherit the land.
14 The LORD confides in those who fear him;
he makes his covenant known to them.
15 My eyes are ever on the LORD,
for only he will release my feet from the snare.
16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
17 The troubles of my heart have multiplied;
free me from my anguish.
18 Look upon my affliction and my distress
and take away all my sins.
19 See how my enemies have increased
and how fiercely they hate me!
20 Guard my life and rescue me;
let me not be put to shame,
for I take refuge in you.
21 May integrity and uprightness protect me,
because my hope is in you.
22 Redeem Israel, O God,
from all their troubles!
A few over the last few weeks, I've been drawn to Psalm 25, specifically verses 1-5. In general, this Psalm weaves themes of trust, humility, hope, forgiveness, and covenant. Below are some questions to ask yourself so that engage the text.
1.Verse 1 reads "to you I lift up my soul, in you I trust." For some of us, trust is a hard thing to do. Maybe we've been let down or abandoned by close friends or family. Verse 3 says "No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame." Do you trust God to guide you and deliver you? If not, what do you think makes you not want to trust him?
2. Verses 4 and 5 are my favorite. They seem like cries to God, earnest requests for God to instruct them in their lives. David (the author of this Psalm) is actively seeking God's guidance. Are you actively seeking God? Are you crying out to him for instruction? Remember, in everything, Jesus (and thus God) came to give us life, and that to the full!
3. In order for God to instruct us, the Psalm states that there are certain qualities that we need to possess: "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way (v. 9)" and "The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them (v. 14)". In other words, if we want God to speak, we need to be willing to listen and not speak. When you pray, do you assume that you have all the answers and that God is going bless you no matter what? Or, do you come to God with your questions and concerns in search of an answer with a listening ear?
4. A few times David cries out to God for forgiveness. Is there something that you need to repent of and ask forgiveness for?
5. Lastly, the Psalmist makes a very exclusive statement: "My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare" (v. 15). Do you trust God and God alone? Do you trust the Shepard to guide you? Or are you looking elsewhere for guidance, direction and salvation?
Posted By: Anonymous at 3:56 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Band of Survivors 2008
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Band of Survivors Application's are due tomorrow!!! If you still would like to apply, there are 3 spots left. Or, if you picked up an application at Youth Councils, turn it in! Get your essays done, and have your Corps Officer fill our their portion. The deadline is tomorrow!!!
Click here to download the application. Here are some good reasons to apply:
Click here to download the application. Here are some good reasons to apply:
Soldier Making:
Church Dancing:
Body Building:
Children's Ministrying:
Joseph Becoming:
God Praising:
Car Washing:
Bible Studying:
Meat Grilling:
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:16 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Olivia Munn / War College Chicago
Hey yall.
Today's post consists of two resources - but they have something in common - Salvation Army Life.
First off, meet Olivia Munn. Some of us from the Metro Division may remember her because she was stationed at the Mt. Greenwood/Blue Island Corps for her War College Summer Assignment. She has some good stuff to say about what a relationship with God is all about.
Second of all, have you prayed about attending the War College Chicago? Here are some lines from their website to tell you more about it:
"We’re looking for true soldiers of the Cross. We’re looking for Conquerors. We’re looking for people that want to raise the standard high and fight for the least and the lost. We’re looking for people of covenant, people of truth, people of hope, people of faith, and people who want to be a part of an army that fights “not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12).
We exist to train warriors to win the world for Jesus. Anything that accelerates, accentuates and/or amplifies the mission is welcome. Conversely, anything that thwarts the mission and grieves God’s heart needs to be quickly weeded out so we can maintain blessing Jesus and establishing His kingdom here in Blue Island and in each of our lives. In everything we do we aim to train you in being a part of God’s Hero Army!"
Does that sound like you? Go to their website to download an application!
Posted By: Anonymous at 3:52 PM : Link : 0 Comments
All About the Benjamins? Need a college scholarship?
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Looking for scholarships for the 08-09 school year? Well, you may be in luck. The Metropolitan Division has made two new scholarships available: The Metro Leadership Scholarship and the Metro Medical Scholarship.
Taken straight from the application: The Metro Leadership Scholarship "is designed to provide educational funds for Salvation Army Soldier of the Metropolitan Division. Scholarships are available for all studies of all undergraduate work, and the first and second year for graduate work. The scholarship program is limited to $35,000 annually. In 2008, scholarships will be awarded by the Metropolitan Scholarship Committee on August 1, 2008. Applications are accepted through July 1, 2008. "
The Metro Medical Scholarship "is designed to provide educational funds for Salvation Army Soldier of the Metropolitan Division who are involved in an accredited College Medical program. Scholarships are available for all undergraduate medical studies. In 2008, scholarships will be awarded by the Metropolitan Scholarship Committee on August 1, 2008. Applications are accepted through July 1, 2008."
Scholarships are available in the amounts of $2,500/year for a full time student at a four year school and $1,250 for a full time student at a two year school when applying for the Metro Leadership Scholarship. It's the same for the Metro Medical Scholarship too.
Make sure you download the applications for both to see if you qualify (see Eligibility and Requirements section):
Metro Leadership Scholarship
Metro Medical Scholarship
Posted By: Anonymous at 11:39 AM : Link : 0 Comments
Acts of Consecration
Even though I have alluded to it before, its purpose remains relevant to us for our time and so I allude to it again: In Chosen to be a Soldier, it is said that William Booth encouraged Soldiers to examine their heart once a week by asking themselves a series of questions. One of them was this:
"Am I fulfilling the vows that I have made to God in my acts of consecration, or at the penitent form?" (page 18)
God spoke to us powerfully this weekend. I believe he revealed Himself and showed us things we need to change or grow in. Think back through this weekend. What did the Holy Spirit reveal to you? This could be anything from God's love for you to your need to love others, or that one specific person in your life.
Assuming that you listened when God spoke this weekend, it will be helpful for you to create a sort of action plan to carry out what you consecrated yourself to do. For instance, if God spoke to you that you need a more consistent relationship with Him, start doing things that foster a love relationship. 1) Spend time with Jesus - set time aside to be alone with Him. 2) Talk to Jesus - Pray! A great way to start praying is praying the words of the Psalms, which are basically prayers (you may find your requests to be very similar to the writer's). 3) Spend time in worship - reflect on who God is (love, 1 John 4; merciful, faithful, holy, beautiful, compassionate) Also, read the Bible more. There are tons of Bible reading plans online (google it!). And when you read don't just read it like you read your Biology book. Pray before you start, ask God to help you understand it, and ask Him to show you something specific that you can apply to your life right then and there.
Or let's say that God revealed to you that need to evangelize more. First of all, try raising your eyebrows when you talk- I actually started doing this, and it works! Follow the Spirit's leading in your every day life. If God leads you to pray with someone, do it. If God leads you to talk to someone about Jesus, do it. Also, study up on the basics of the Gospel. I've found it to be very easy to forget some things on the spot. If you have a Handbook of Doctrine, study chapter 8 which is on doctrine 7 - "We believe that repentance toward God, faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, and regeneration by the Holy Spirit are necessary to salvation." It gives the specifics and backs it up with Scripture for you to memorize.
Encourage each other today. If a friend shared with you something that God has been doing in their life, they trust you. Give them a call, email them, or facebook them an encouraging word. Encourage each other to be faithful!
If your struggling to remember what God spoke to you, this is what he talked about:
Friday night - Understanding God and his love for me - Read Luke 15:11-32
Saturday morning - Understanding how I give and receive love
Saturday night - Overcoming barriers to receiving God's love
Sunday morning - We need to love others because God has loved us - Read 1 John 3-4
Posted By: Anonymous at 9:55 AM : Link : 0 Comments
Youth Councils 2008 Photodoc
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Youth Councils Report
Where to begin?!?!
Let’s start with the obvious; the theme. I AM loved. Do you remember what this means? In Exodus 3, God revealed himself with the name “I AM” to Moses (read the chapter, or even the whole book – it’s sweet!). So, in effect the theme was GOD loved. We focused on knowing God and his unconditional love, understanding how we give and receive love, and how we can show love to others.
Friday night, Daniel Ambush (or phonetically spelled Amboosh) Wallace brought it with a powerful message on God’s love from the story of the Prodigal Son (see Luke 15:11-32). He taught us even though we go a long way off in our sin, when and if we return to the Father, he wraps his arms around us, gives us his signet ring, and throws a BBQ. And oh yeah, remember what he does with our sin when we repent? He throws them as far as the east is from the west (see Psalm 103:12). Remember Daniel throwing the baggage?
Saturday morning, we learned how we give and receive love. What are the five love languages? Let’s repeat them, with visuals if you can remember:
-Physical Touch
-Words of Affirmation (BING!)
-Gifts
-Acts of Service
-Quality Time
Saturday night Anwar Smith gave a great sermon on overcoming barriers to receiving God’s love. Remember, it’s a free gift that we receive. We need to repent to God and have faith in Christ for his work on the cross.
Sunday morning (my personal favorite) Ambush preached on what means to love others. We must:
-Surrender our right to choose our neighbor (suggestion – start with those around you; also see Luke 10:29 and the verses around it).
-Risk your well being for the well being of others. Love is sacrificial!
-Experiment with ways to love people.
Daniel also gave a few helpful tips in our evangelism: intentionally smile! I’ve been trying this out in the last few days and it works!
Another highlight of the weekend was Special Ops. The theme for this time was “OTHERS”. Friday we discussed that the reason behind why we should love others is because it is how others will know that we are disciples of Jesus (see John 13). Friday night was particularly awesome. We were encouraged to wash each other’s feet as a sign of our love for our brothers and sisters and some were filled with the Holy Spirit! Praise the Lord! Saturday morning we were instructed about how we are to love others. We are called to love others selflessly (or sacrificially), which can indeed be hard, but it’s still necessary (see 1 John 3:16). Saturday night we were instructed that loving others includes loving our enemies as well (see Luke 10:25-37). We ended with the fact that we can only love others because God loved us (see 1 John 4:11). Remember that being loved by God and having His love is a major factor (if not the only one) in how we love other people. This means that we need to maintain our walk with the Lord and put ourselves in a position where we are feeling and knowing God’s love for us.
God blessed our weekend. He revealed Himself to us, taught us about His nature (which is love), changed our hearts and filled us with his love.
Now, “be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Are you keeping the commitments you made this weekend in prayer and at the altar?
Are you loving others as Christ has loved you?
Let us know. We would love to pray for you!
Don't forget to click the picture to see a slideshow of the photos!
Posted By: Anonymous at 4:43 PM : Link : 0 Comments
Love Unconditionally
Those of you who attended CBLI (Central Bible and Leadership Institute) last year, you got to meet to Spirit filled officers - Commissioners William and Marilyn Francis. Man, could they preach! I remember one comment from people being that they (especially Commissioner Marilyn) always seemed to be full of love - genuinely full of love. Everyone she met she engaged with. She smiled from ear to ear, hugged warmly, I think a few (even me!) got a kiss on the cheek!
Thinking back on our Youth Councils, I'm reminded about how we are called to be a people of love. And good news for us, the Bible defines what love is and gives us an example of how we are to love:
"Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Below is a short article (taken from The Salvations Army's national website for Canada) by Commissioner William Francis reminding us that we are to always be a people of love.
*******
We must love and serve…unconditionally
I am Commissioner William Francis, leader of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. My wife, Commissioner Marilyn, serves as President of The Salvation Army’s Women’s Ministries across this great nation.
We began our ministry in Canada in July 2007. Since then, we have travelled from coast to coast witnessing first-hand the work of The Salvation Army. As the largest non-governmental provider of social services, The Salvation Army assisted 1.5 million people last year in 400 communities throughout the country.
The Salvation Army is not only a social services agency. It is a unique church. We believe God has given us a wonderful opportunity to meet and minister to people at their point of need. We love, build relationships and mentor those who have met with tough times. All we do stems from a love for Jesus.
We serve and work for social justice with “no strings attached.” I particularly think of the victims of human sexual trafficking, a form of slavery that is one of the fastest-growing transnational crimes. The Salvation Army has declared this human tragedy a worldwide priority. Trained counsellors are committed to assisting victims as they reclaim their dignity and self-worth. Safe houses are in place for refuge. Often, this is a silent ministry due to the nature of the problem.
With 260,000 immigrants and refugees entering the country each year, Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. Many flee war-torn countries looking for safe shelter. Our immigrant and refugees services continue to embrace, give hope and offer a better life to those who have left everything behind.
Human needs across Canada are endless. As we serve the homeless, the addicted, the elderly and those who have been stricken by poverty, we love wholeheartedly because that is how God loves us.
Donors, volunteers, employees and officers/pastors who come together and embrace this ministry give the marginalized and disenfranchised people in society a better future.
In his last public appearance, William Booth, Founder of The Salvation Army, proclaimed:
"While women weep as they do now, I’ll fight. While little children go hungry, I’ll fight. While men go to prison, in and out, in and out, as they do now, I’ll fight. While there is a drunkard left, while there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, where there remains one dark soul without the light of God, I’ll fight — I’ll fight to the very end."
The Salvation Army is here to love and serve unconditionally. And this love is the basis of all we do in 113 countries around the world.
Posted By: Anonymous at 2:25 PM : Link : 0 Comments
