Dear Salvation Army – 5 Reasons New People Leave The Corps

Every church struggles with keeping members. Jesus never said anything about filling chairs in a church building but He did say a few things about making more disciples. Every church, from time to time, struggles to find its place in the community. Needs have to be met. Souls have to be sought. A ministry niche’ has to be cultivated. What is your corps’ niche’? I don’t mean some sort of lure or hook to pull people in. What I do mean is this: who is your corps targeting to minister to? What do your services look like? Are they geared for a multi-generational audience? If we follow the instructions of Paul and become “all things to all people” (1 Cor 9:22) what does that look like in our corps today? What happens when our corps must make crucial decisions to change and adapt for the sake of becoming all things to all people (for the purpose of sharing Christ) because presently they are not? Can this change take place? How do we adapt? What sort of steps are required? How can we prevent new people from leaving and keep them coming back and getting involved in our ministries?

Here is a list of 5 reasons new people leave the corps. This isn’t the end all and be all of lists, it is just a primer to an often more complicated topic. I am sure as you read this list there will be more that come to your mind. The intent of this article is to help us figure out why some are leaving our corps and how we can stave off this decrease in fellowship. I do not want to make this point and emphasize only numeric success by any means, but it is the purpose of this article to help us see why some are leaving our corps after only a few visits. Perhaps we can change our corps’ perspective on things and how we engage with one another as well as with new people.

5 Reasons New People Leave The Corps

1. Felt Unwelcome
It seems so obvious and yet visitors to our corps for the first time need to be shown friendliness. They would like for people to remember their names after telling it to a few people. Generally they do not want to stand up and be recognized as a “new visitor”, but they would like a few people to talk to them and to show an interest in who they are. The feeling of being unwelcome in a corps should be the last feeling one should get in our buildings. After all, we are here to minister to the whosoever…right?

2. Lack of Fellowship
Personally I love it when, after the service, people just seem to linger and talk. It is a sign that people generally care for one another. It is also a sign that there is real fellowship going on among the corps’ soldiery. When the corps is unbalanced and there is division instead of unity visitors can sense it. I’m not talking about some sort of “sixth sense” here, it is just obvious in certain types of body language that something is off about the fellowship…or lack thereof. New people want to feel a sense of belonging to something. A place for them to fit in. They would like the chance, at times, to go out for coffee or lunch together following a service. But if real fellowship is not taking place in the corps and instead division is causing quick exits after services, you can be sure new people will attempt to find the exit very quickly too.

3. No Ministry Geared for Their Generation
We serve many generations in our corps. There has to be a balance and in so keeping with the idea of the Apostle Paul we must attempt to “be all things to all people” in how we proactively minister. If you have thirty young adults in your congregation there ought to be something specific to reach them at a deeper level somewhere during the week. If you have a primarily senior corps and only a hand full of teens make sure you have something for both the majority of seniors as well as the teens. When a new comer visits our corps is there something for them to become engaged in? What keeps them coming back? I don’t mean to say that we bribe them, but do we have relevant applicable ministries that they can not only serve in but be spiritually fed by?

4. Army Lingo Not Explained
Sunday announcement: “next week the DC will be here to install the YPSM, oh and don’t forget about DYB coming up shortly in preparation for Youth Councils.” No offense but I knew what that announcement was about, you probably did too but that new person sitting in the back pew who is barely catching on to how we Army folk worship has no clue what we’re talking about. This doesn’t mean that we have to stop the announcements and/or explain everything but perhaps we could be a little helpful to new people and clue them in once in a while. Hearing foreign terminology in a new place can be intimidating and a new comer can begin to feel like an outsider who doesn’t really belong and is not wanted. It is very easy to get into army lingo in services and bible studies and forget that some new people won’t have a clue to what we are saying without taking the time the properly explain or have someone there to help as these terms are being shared.

5. Members feared new visitors
It sounds dumb, but it’s true. Some corps members do not like change, and change can come in many different forms even in the form of new people. Some corps members will complain that we need “new blood” in our corps and yet when that “new blood” walks through that door they treat them with as much disdain as a new worship song being sung for the first time. Change is hard, and yet how can we keep new people coming back if members are afraid of change – even for the good? Education needs to take place. Some corps members may not even know they are acting this way towards new people. It intimidates some corps members. Perhaps some even feel that they might lose power because a new person seems more energetic, charismatic and even more educated. These intimidated corps members begin to show outward, yet subtle aggression towards these new comers, and the new person won’t have a clue why they suddenly feel a sense of hostility. Change, even with new members, can suddenly cause fear and unfriendliness to occur.

Beware:
Be sensitive to the needs of new people. We don’t have to cater solely to them, but we ought to make our worship spaces available and friendly so that all are welcomed – the new and the not so new. Beware of possibly hurdles new people might have to jump in order to “fit in”. Find a new place to worship isn’t easy, especially if this new person as NEVER worshiped in a church in their lives and this is their first attempt. We are the body of Christ and as we extend His love to new people may we display to them and each other genuine love, compassion and grace. May our fellowship be so sweet that we linger in each other’s company. May we seek to minister to all people. Finally, may we be open to change and, with the grace of God, usher in new soldiers for this mighty work!

Something more for our army to ponder today!

August 21, 2014 15

Jesus is Crooked (A Poem)

Jesus is crooked on our bible study wall
no one seems to notice, no one at all
He hangs there with arms slightly askew
tell me dear reader, what am I to do?

For with our starched shirts and proper attire
with ties tied tight we proclaim “blood and fire”
but Jesus just hangs there and so do we
never quite venturing outside in the streets

He, by all accounts was far from straight laced
He broke many a custom but did so with grace
healed the outcast and reject, the slightly askew
tell me dear soldier, isn’t that what we ought to do?

Sure we should offer both rules and the grace
impossibly crooked so the lost see His face
never just stuck within walls of a corps
tell me dear soldier, is that what we stand for?

Yes, Jesus is crooked on our bible study wall
a reminder for the seeker and those who would call
A Revolution of love and grace must begin
for all of us crooked, broken and riddled with sin.

August 20, 2014 0

Coffee Reviews – My Top 10 Favorite Coffees

I am a pastor and generally, by and large, pastors drink coffee…Well this guys does anyway. I am an avid coffee drinker.
To most of you who follow this blog, this little tidbit of information probably comes as no surprise. People have been sending me pictures of coffee on facebook, funny memes and so on for a long time now…I love it! I have had some wonderful friends who have sent me samples of coffees and I would like to review a few of my favorite coffees thus far. I am by no means a coffee snob…okay maybe a little bit. Please don’t ever and I mean EVER serve me this:

Because THIS in my opinion
is NOT coffee.

This list is my opinion, please don’t be insulted or offended if I happen to place one coffee over another…it’s just my personal preference. Let me also put it out there, if you happen to have additional recommendations for unique or fantastic coffees that are not on this list please comment below…and I will never turn down a sample of two.

Scott’s current TOP TEN Coffees:

10. Dunkin Doughnuts

http://www.dunkindonuts.com/content/dunkindonuts/en/coffee.html
I have to admit (and please don’t call me a hater) but this coffee takes some getting used to for me. It’s a little too bitter for me, but it is palatable even enjoy able from time to time when I’m indulging in a doughnut or three. Although having said that it is, in my opinion, just a step above McDonald’s coffee.

09. Gevalia House Blend

http://www.gevalia.com/
The Gevalia house blend is a smooth coffee to drink and is truly an enjoyable store bought brand coffee. It comes in the traditional yellow packaging and is finely ground for a smooth finish. I recommend this coffee for everyday use if you like something with a smooth finish.

08. Tim Hortons

http://www.timhortons.com/us/en/index.php
I enjoy their bold flavor and again something to wash down a breakfast sandwich or a doughnut served with chilli (seriously it’s on the menu like that in Canada). It’s a good solid coffee that I haven’t had the pleasure of drinking in a long time…I might have to remedy that very soon.

07. Seattle’s Best

http://www.seattlesbest.com/
Seattle is know for their coffees. That being said those living in the Washington State area might scoff and say “which ‘best’ do you mean?” For the rest of us who don’t live in Seattle, we can enjoy Seattle’s best coffee that has a sophisticated rich taste and isn’t too bitter an aftertaste. I like this blend a lot!

06. Biggby Coffee

http://www.biggby.com/
Michiganer’s have enjoyed Biggby coffee since 1995. They have good beans, and better bold coffees…they are a little pricey for my taste, but a good cup of java to buy when I’m back in Michigan. A solid recommend!

05. Starbucks Blonde Roast

http://www.starbucks.com/coffee
(coincidentally, Starbucks contacted me via my blog and asked me to add their online coupon link, so here it is: Starbucks Coupons)
My wife, following gall bladder surgery was placed on a strict diet which included low acid coffee. The Starbucks “blonde” roast is a perfect low acid coffee that still maintains a strong flavor and little to no bitter aftertaste.

04. Caribou – French Roast

https://www.cariboucoffee.com/
I enjoy a good french press cup now and then. When I do press my coffee I like to purchase quality french roast coffees. This is one of my favorites but I have to use it in moderation because of the potent flavor. Caribou is a Minnesota coffee company headquartered in Brooklyn Center MN. I am thankful that places like Target have carried them nationwide and their coffees are readily available! Since my college days in Minnesota I have been an avid Caribou coffee drinker! I also look forward to their Christmas blends when they become available later in the fall.

03. Cup of the Day – Sault Ste. Marie MI.
http://cupoftheday.com/
In my travels I have sampled some good coffees and some not so good coffees. I had the privilege of drinking Cup of the Day’s coffee for almost five years while living in Sault Ste. Marie Michigan. I can tell you that its owner and operator Tony is a coffee connoisseur who cares about quality more than filling stomachs with average over the counter coffees! If you ever get the change to stop in Sault Ste. Marie, be sure to sample some of Tony’s coffees…by the way I would recommend going there during the lunch hour because everything he serves at meals are equally delicious!

02. Bitter end coffeehouse coffee – Grand Rapids MI.

http://thebitterendcoffeehouse.com/
I was privileged to sample some of the Bitter end Coffee House coffees recently and I have to say “wow“! These beans are solid! The owner and operator is also one of those quality of quantity kind of connoisseur of coffees. They roast their own coffees there at the coffee house and produce some amazing flavored coffee! If you get the chance to stop in and sample their coffees be sure to say hello to John Sprite (the owner)! I recommend buying some of their coffee beans to take home as well! You won’t be sorry you did!

01. Church and State Sumatra Blend

http://churchandstatecoffee.com/
One of my friends sent me a sampling of their coffees this past Christmas and I was blown away at the flavor! The deep auburn colors coupled with the pungent flavorful aromas make this coffee worth ordering online! I not only french pressed this coffee but used a standard coffee maker…both worked out great and were fantastic to drink! I will definitely be ordering some more of this coffee in the near future!

These are just my current top ten coffees. I would love to hear about your favorites and how they compare to mine.
One coffee in particular that I am dying to try but also happens to be one of the rarest coffees to buy is St. Helena Island coffee: http://www.coffeeandtealtd.com/sthelena.html They only produce a small amount of coffee beans a year and it’s only $89 per pound to purchase…I spent four years of my childhood on this little remote island in the south Atlantic ocean. It’s so remote that Napolean couldn’t escape it and eventually died there. I want to try a cup of St. Helena once more!

At any rate…these are my top ten so far. Please send me feedback and comments below! I appreciate your take on things!

Disclaimer: no coffee companies or proprietors of coffee were injured in the making of this review…although I sure drank my fill. I was not paid to advertise these products although I think I would look rather dashing in a commercial…just sayin’. At any rate these thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone and I reserve the right to disagree with any and all Sanka drinkers out there. Enough said.

August 19, 2014 6

Dear Salvation Army – 3 Surefire Ways To Succeed In Our Mission

Please do not misunderstand these letter that I have felt compelled to write. They are not meant to injure or cause strife within our Army. Instead, I have felt rather strongly that we can improve, we can do better, we still have room to grow. If you have read one of these letters and perhaps interpreted these thoughts as destructive or harsh, please rest assured I hold no ill will towards the army, I only wish to dialogue and discuss ways we CAN adjust our vision and pathway.

Today I would like to discuss ‘success’.

What Success Is Not:
Success in our Army isn’t about some sort of “name it and claim it” prosperity theology. We have faith in God through both the prosperous times and in the not so prosperous times. Success is not about statistics either…statistics alone are only the evidence of positive trends. These can be helpful as tools towards realizing our mission, but should not be our “mountaintop” conclusion.

Success is not measured in wealth of our army. Money is also a tool that can do great good but also has the potential of doing great harm if mismanaged. Wealth in our army should be measured in the health of corps, divisions and most importantly its Soldiers. Success should not be based upon the financial stability (though as mentioned already money is a very helpful tool).

Having set aside some of the erroneously preconceived notions about success, let us now delve into the 3 surefire ways to succeed in our mission as an Army…

Our Mission As A Salvation Army:
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian
Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

3 Surefire Ways To Succeed In Our Mission:

1. Love For Christ And a Love For Others

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why:

I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.’ (Matthew 25:35)

The principle of a successful mission begins and ends with love. It goes beyond our “lovey-dovey” kind of love that was evident in summer camps as teenagers. It goes beyond a simple “like” of people. We must love God first. Simply put, without this love and devotion to Him we will never contain the capacity of love for others that is required of our Army. We administer God’s grace to some very unlovable people from time to time. Some have been hardened by the world around them and through horrendous circumstances that no one else knows. Loving the unlovable is not possible unless we possess, retain, frequently reconnect with the love of God. Our relationship to Him and our love for Him must continue to be the catalyst of our mission. Without His love we can do nothing. Without the love for “Others” our mission is incomplete and will not see continued success. We mustn’t lose this connection with our first love, because from it pours the compassion and grace to love those around us that He has called us to.

2. Be An Avid Reader And Student Of God’s Word:

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage–with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2)

We must not misplace our desire to know more about our wondrous Savior. Secondly we must not ever get to a point in our spiritual formation and education and say within our hearts “I have learned it all, nothing more can be taught to me.” God help us if we ever become so prideful of our own human wisdom and foolishly think that the Holy Spirit can not instruct us more. The Word of God is living and active and we must ever be good students of His Word. This goes far beyond going to bible studies or even teaching Bible studies. This takes us to a place that we intentionally carve out blocks of time in our daily schedules to feast and meditate on His Word. Do not take it lightly or only pick it up in preparation for a sermon or for Sunday morning. God’s Word is our life’s blood and our source of truth in an often very murky world. We cannot and will not ever success in our Mission as an Army if we are not first students of His Word. Becoming a student of God’s Word will not only give us passages to share with the hurting and lost but also provide us deeper insight in God’s presence with His holy people.

3. Holiness, Holiness, Holiness:

I keep coming back to this point of ‘Holiness‘ in my life and perhaps there are implications here for all of us. More and more I have been convicted by the Holy Spirit that I still have more to give, more to surrender to His will in my life. This isn’t a ‘One and done’ deal or some sort of check-off list of action steps this is living a life of holiness everyday. Some days I succeed, while other days I am a complete and utter disaster of holiness. Becoming like Christ in every way shape and form in our sacrificial living as an Army MUST be first our individual goal and then our corporate aim. We can “go through the motions” of works. We can walk the pathway of duty and never reflect Christ in our hearts. We can be very good at pretending sometimes around other soldiers, officers and even those we serve, but we cannot fool the Lord. If we do not have our hearts bent and rent to the will of our Savior we cannot be prompted into a deeper surrender by the Holy Spirit. Every day we should have words similar to “I surrender all” on our lips and in our hearts. Every moment of every day we should attempt to include God’s Holy presence with us in whatever task we perform until we can walk, live and even breathe holiness. You might consider this impossible. You might view a full surrender of your heart to God as something of a dream that could never come true…is God not capable? Can He not perform this miracle in our lives? We must be willing – Yes, this is true. We must possess some measure of faith. He can transform us and make us new. He has already begun this great work within us.

Dear Salvation Army,

Our Mission is Christ and Others! We cannot perform these tasks here on earth without our first love and the love of others. We cannot complete our mission without sound doctrine and becoming students of His Word. We cannot realize the vision of the lost within the sea of sin and drowning hopelessness without individual and corporate holiness in this army. We need each other as accountability partners. We need reconciliation when brokenness of organization has occurred. We need soldiers willing to fight and to stand in the gap even when it seems all hope is gone…because God has not departed from us. He will ever be our guide. He will always lead us if we are truly listening to our first love…are we?

Something more for our Army to ponder today.

August 7, 2014 1

Dear Salvation Army – Let’s Turn Things Upside Down!

For far too long there has been this imaginary ideological organizational structure which told us (erroneously) that the corps and front-line ministries were at the bottom of The Salvation Army pecking order. Honestly I don’t really get caught up in “who is first” or “who is most important”, yet at times there is this unspoken notion of “climbing the corporate ladder” even in The Salvation Army. As if corps ministry and front-line evangelism is somewhat lacking in prestige and importance. Let me make this absolutely clear – If anyone in our Army has signed up for the express purpose of “climbing the ladder” and to “get out of corps ministry” then perhaps that person should consider finding another army to belong to.

The Army isn’t the only place this happens (obvious statement, I know). The disciples of Jesus had witnessed many miracles and wonders performed by their Rabbi -Jesus and they began to argue amongst themselves about who would be greater. You can almost hear their ego driven argument, “No, I’m clearly the better speaker”, “But I’m better looking in uniform” (I had to put that in there), “Well, I am so much better with finances”, “Oh yeah, but I have better administration skills“…

According to Luke 9:48 Jesus knew their thoughts and cut them off -“Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”

Holiness & Humility:
If we could only stop this petty self-defeating ladder climbing mentality. If only we could keep our eyes on what is most important – Being Holy people and from this allowing the Holy Spirit to transform lives through our actions of evangelism. If only we could stop looking over the fence at that other corps which seems more prestigious and more prosperous than ours as we covet what they have. If only we could stop looking at DHQ or THQ as “the next step in our careers”. If only, if only, if only… Why is it that we humans, as imperfect as we are, always seem to be so success focused? Shouldn’t we consider what the Lord said to Samuel when anointing the next (God appointed) king of Israel; “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

How are our hearts? Isn’t serving God with our everything enough? Isn’t being loved by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords prestigious enough?

I have included a couple of diagrams today to help us understand how the true model of leadership and ministry SHOULD look like…and I hope this helps:

What this diagram represents is the way most organizations and businesses are run in our world today. From the top down. But, if we are led by humility and holiness, we would understand that “the least of these” must begin from the bottom – up. Not to imply that we place leadership at the bottom or that administration isn’t important, but rather for us to understand that without active evangelism and the dispensing of God’s love and grace we run risk of losing everything and having nothing to show for our polished efforts. If the terms are confusing to you then let me illustrate this (in my best hand writing

…please don’t laugh)

The "traditional" organizational flow chart/hierarchical structure model — The “traditional” organizational flow chart/hierarchical structure model

How leadership and administration (and soldiers) ought to view the structure active ministry and evangelism.

Turning Things On Its Head:

For far too long men and women of our Army have gone about “position” all wrong. Yes we need administration and leadership but what is our primary purpose? What is that one principle upon which we are an Army? Christ-then Others! If we only look at Salvation Army structure as ranks and office then we are only reflecting worldly hierarchical organizational -money driven, success oriented models, which are rife with politics, maneuvering, ego-driven leadership, power hungry people. Are we an Army dependent upon these things? NO! It cannot be that way with us! It should not be that way with us…and yet at times it has become inexplicably linked with our internal identities. We must continually turn this identity upside down! We must guard our hearts from pride and arrogance and the pursuit of “position” within our Army. It was never about what rank was placed upon our shoulders. It was never about what position we held at the corps or divisional headquarters, or territorial headquarters or any other “headquarters”…it IS about serving Christ humbly and from this one vital relationship (our first love) all things ought to flow in our ministries.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24)

This is something further our Army must continuously ponder…to God be the glory!

Please, tell me what you think by commenting below and leaving responses…let’s continue this dialogue together!

August 5, 2014 8

Devotional Pondering: Trust Issues…

“Let us go with complete trust to the throne of God. We will receive His loving-kindness and have His loving-favor to help us whenever we need it.” Hebrews 4:16 (NLV)

Question: Do you trust God? No, I mean really, really trust Him? It is one thing to say that we trust Him and it’s completely different to actually move on that trust. He has made a way for us to come to Him directly through His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus is our kinsman redeemer. Because of that redemption we now have access to the unmerited grace of God. We don’t deserve it yet we are able to receive it.

The key is this: can we go to God with complete trust? After all, many of us have trust issues, whether we choose to admit it or not. Many of us can recall times when we placed our trust in someone and they completely broke that trust. Once our trust was broken we began to doubt if anyone was ever trustworthy enough for us to completely confide in. For some of us we hold onto our hearts and lives, diligently clutching them, refusing to allow anyone access to the deep workings of our hearts and minds. These areas are “off-limits” because in order to share them we would have to exercise complete trust in someone, which would make us completely vulnerable. Being vulnerable before anyone, let alone God is an extremely scary thought.

God will not break our trust!
God himself longs to gain full access to our hearts and minds. He longs to hear us speak to Him without limitations and without us holding back. God is a personal Creator who desires a personal relationship with you and me. He is not one who breaks promises or returns our trust in tattered flames and shattered dreams…NO, God wants all there is of us, completely without lacking anything or withholding anything. Can we trust God THAT much? Is it worth it? YES!

Personal questions to ponder today:
Am I still struggling with trust issues towards God?
What (if anything) am I still clutching on to?
Can I go to Him with all there is of me?
What’s holding me back from this amazing fellowship?
This scripture says “His loving-kindness” and “His loving-favor” will be there whenever I need it…can I boldly ask Him to be with me today? Can I boldly share with Him the struggles I am going through right now? Can I give Him my burdens? Am I prepared to fully trust Him?

Prayer:
Lord you know my heart and my life. You know my struggles and my burdens. Show me what it means to trust you completely. Help me see Your blessings in my life today. Lord, at times I struggle with trusting You completely. Remind constantly of Your presence with me today and guide me through everything I must do today. Lord, I invite You, I ask You to journey with me each step of the way today. In Your name I pray all of these things. -Amen.

Ponder His loving kindness and our willingness to completely trust Him today!

July 25, 2014 0

Dear Salvation Army – Legacy: May They Find Us Faithful

“Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.” 2 Peter 1:12-15

I asked friends of mine on Facebook a few days ago this question:
“If you were to be remembered for one thing, what would it be?”
Some of their responses:
“He was my friend”
“She loved me”
“They led me to Christ”
“I saw Jesus in her”
“He understood and lived grace”
“She cared for others”

These and many more were wonderful responses given…what would your response be?
What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? What kind of mark do you want to leave on this earth?

In our Army we have this wonder phrase of “Promoted Glory” which I wrote about this week
“Dear Salvation Army – Promotion to Glory, Heaven on Earth”
But before this glorious promotion, what can we do now to bring Heaven to Earth?
How can we lead other people to Christ, to live with grace, dignity, holiness and love?
Are we even considering the kind of legacy that we want to leave behind us for future generations?

“Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you.” -Shannon Adler

Tonight in St. Louis (Central Territory, USA) The Salvation Army will be holding a “Promoted To Glory” service for one of our own. He was a godly man, a friend, a brother, a father. His legacy is, without a doubt, carved into the hearts of many with whom he had the opportunity to teach, to love and to administer God’s grace. Over the course of this week I have read tribute after tribute from people from all walks of life. This man fought the good fight and the world he left behind is so much better because of His contributions to it. He was able to live out Heaven here on Earth!

What kind of legacy do you wish to leave behind in this world? Where can you bring Heaven to Earth today? Where has God appointed YOU so that His grace might be dispensed upon those who are so desperately in need of it? He still needs ambassadors who are willing to serve regardless of the response or the fear of rejection. God has accepted you and me for this holy calling! Do not take your life for granted and the good you can do within the lives of other people because of the mighty work of the Holy Spirit!

I am reminded of two song lyrics within this context today:
Switchfoot within their song “Thrive” repeats the phrase “I want to thrive not just survive“
Steve Green within his song “Find us Faithful” –
“…may all who come behind
us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave,
lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us
find us faithful“

May it be our desire to serve the Lord in such a way that those who come after us are reminded of our faithfulness to God and that because of it they too wish to follow in our footsteps. This isn’t some sort of arrogant desire or a selfish ambition, but rather a deep longing to live a life that reflects Christ and because of it a sweet aroma of sacrifice and holiness will compel others to walk in the same manner.

What indelible mark are you leaving on this Earth?
Are you lighting the pathway of Holiness for others?
Are you displaying faithfulness to God through your living?
May we thrive and not just survive!
May those who come behind us find us faithful!

-Something more for our Army and ALL Believers to ponder today!

July 24, 2014 0

Dear Salvation Army – You Are Home to Many!

General Booth’s vision for the army was one of safe harbor for the countless souls drowning in the billowing waves of sin. Today that sea still ebbs and flows, still jostles people about, still causes souls to drown in their depravity. The Salvation Army is still here ready to pull victims from the waters, prepared to love them regardless of who they are and where they’ve been. The army has become home to the homeless and a home to others whose “home” was a constant battlefield of alcoholism, drug abuse and physical violence.

Reshaping the word “Home”

To many the word “home” brings up anxiety, fear and sadness.
Many have never lived within a place that was filled with love or acceptance.

Too often, through abuse and selfishness, children have grown up fearing “home” and have lingered in Army halls and youth programs and even schools because the thought of “going home” meant pain and hurt.

We as an Army of Salvation can reshape the the word “home” to mean hope and love and family again. Sometimes it means reporting abuse (which is never easy to do but necessary). Sometimes it means that we take the initiative and visit the homes of those we minister to in our corps. Sometimes it means simply being available to youth and even adults who need a place to hang out and someone to talk to.

I have heard many stories of individuals that came to The Salvation Army because we were open and we became their safe harbor. In order to escape a less than perfect home they participated in as many programs at the corps as possible and even went to summer camps just to get away. Through these available programs and through the wonderful summer camp ministries we, unknowingly at times, are reshaping what “home” is to many. We are replacing the dread and hurt of the word home and in its place we are instilling encouragement, love, peace, joy and hope!

Be A Home Changer!
Let us not become prideful in what we can accomplish in the lives of other, but may we continue to strive to be a home changer in the lives of those we serve! Do not become hardened or calloused by the works of your hands while giving out hope as a precious commodity, instead take the initiative and share Christ’s love regardless of how you feel! We may never know the kind of impact that we have had on the lives of those we welcome into our corps! You ARE making a difference for the kingdom through your faithfulness to Christ and in your love for others!

The young child who attends a youth program at your corps may one day join our ranks as an officer and boldly declare Christ and give a witness that if not for YOU they would not have known that anyone really cared for them. You are Home!

The single mom who is broken and burnout on life and still has to make ends meet and find time to love her children may one day declare that if it hadn’t been for The Salvation Army and for YOU that she may have ended her life or simply walked away from her family because the pressures of life and depression had emptied her of the last ounce of hope. You are Home!

Be a refuge of faith.
Dear Salvation Army, continue to be that light of hope to the hopeless, the disparaged and the desperate. You are HOME to so many!

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.‘ (Matthew 25:40)

Just another thing for the Army world to ponder today.

July 23, 2014 0

Porn-Again Christians The Unspoken Prison

Nearly 30,000 web users are viewing porn each second.

ChristiaNet survey came back with results suggesting that just over 50 percent of Christian men are addicted to pornography. And it’s not just a “guy-thing;” over 20 percent of Christian women are addicted to pornography as well. Coupled with that 37 percent of pastors admit that they struggle with Internet pornography, and 51 percent say it’s a source of temptation. (Source: http://www.christianpost.com/news/pornography-in-the-pew-a-hidden-sin-part-one-59666/)

Pornography is the #1 unspoken sin that is ravaging our churches throughout the world today. This may seem like a strong statement but the effects of such a blight in our congregations and in marriages is staggering. I believe Satan doesn’t have to go far to trap Christian, we are inundated with sexual images every day from commercials to network television…not all images are pornographic but can churn up lusts in our hearts if we allow them to. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” We must guard our hearts by limiting or eliminating the things we allow our eyes to see. You know the phrase “garbage in garbage out”? It evokes this notion that whatever we think on becomes who we are. For example if I wanted to run a marathon I couldn’t just sit on the couch and eat twinkies all day…well I could but I wouldn’t be able to run that marathon that I have set my sights on. I would become out of shape, my muscle mass would be lost and I would have not gained anything because I didn’t exercise discipline.

In the same way if we don’t train our minds and discipline ourselves in what we see with our eyes we will fall prey to the lusts of the flesh. If we don’t guard our hearts against such damaging images and other damaging content out in our world we will fall prey to these sin issues and never grow in our faith. The unspoken prison is more than just porn. What are you reading? What are you listening to? Even these seemingly innocuous things can cause us to consume damaging content that can blur those lines of moral living in our lives today. Be careful what you feast on with your eyes and your ears. Guard your hearts!

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NLT)

Questions:

How can we fight something so damaiging when no one wants to talk about it?

Is there hope in the Church for porn addicts?

How do we address such an issue?

The effects of pornography is not only detrimental to a person’s marriage and other relationships but it can be debilitating to the personal spiritual growth.

If this sin of lust continues to be allowed to fester without getting to the core of the issue, repentance and forgiveness can never be met.

More Statistics:

Did you know that 1.2 million children are being trafficked every year; this is in addition to the millions already held captive by trafficking (UNICEF)

Why would I include this statistic? Because the dark(er) underbelly of the porn industry is that it supports human trafficking and human slavery. Pornography and its use drives up demands for trafficked humans. Did you know that? This is certainly a disturbing conversation, yet this topic needs to be discussed in our churches.

Christians who are addicted to pornography need to know the dangers of this hidden sin! This unspoken prison to many needs to be brought out into the light! Many are struggling today within our churches with this enslaving addiction. The porn-again Christian can find help. We shouldn’t want to pass judgement on anyone, that isn’t our place, but we as Christ-followers need to be a source of hope and encouragement to help live lives accountable and live holiness. I do not have all of the answers but there are many sources out there that can help someone who is struggling with this unspoken prison today. Let me speak directly to anyone who is addicted to porn today: You can be free of this burden! You can find hope and deliverance from your addiction! I have included below a few weblinks that anyone can check out that might help anyone get free from these bonds of your unspoken prison.

Additional Articles & Resources to check out:
http://www.todayschristianwoman.com/articles/2001/may/my-husband-was-addicted-to-porn.html

http://www.feedtherightwolf.org/

http://www.xxxchurch.com/
http://www.breakpoint.org/bpcommentaries/entry/13/25714#.U8_gQBRtyEk.facebook

Something more to ponder within our churches today!

July 22, 2014 0

Dear Salvation Army – A Tribute To Colonel’s Dennis And Sharon Strissel…My Parents.

Do you know the phrase “They fought the good fight”? I think it quite fitting when I bring to mind my Mom and Dad, Colonel’s Dennis and Sharon Strissel in the context of their 46+ Years (Missionary Service included) of Salvation Army Officership. I might be partial but I am blessed more than you can know to have been raise by these loving, godly parents of mine!

The Chronology Of Faithful Service:

Commissioned – 1974
The “Followers of Christ” Session.

Appointments:

Lincoln Neb – Assistant
Beatrice Neb – Assistant

Kearney Neb – Married

Council Bluffs IA.
The Island of St. Helena (South Africa Territory)
Krugersdorp, South Africa
Cape Town – Athlone Corps, South Africa
(Secondary Appointment while CO – Divisional Youth Secretary)
Wichita Citadel Corps, KS.
Champaign IL.
Divisional Youth Secretaries- Grand Rapids MI.
Lakewood Temple Corps, Maplewood MN.
Divisional Secretaries Indiana Division
Divisional Commanders – Indiana Division
Divisional Commanders – Midland Division
Territorial Commanders/President of Women’s Ministries – Ghana Territory
High Council – 2011
Divisional Commanders – Eastern Michigan
(This Chronological list of appointments just doesn’t do justice to their leadership and ministry over the years!!)

An Officer’s Kid Perspective:
Growing up as Officer’s children my sister and I didn’t see some of the hardships my parents both faced. The life of an officer, let alone a missionary officer, is not easy. Yet my folks always intentionally created an atmosphere of peace and love at home despite any outside issues or difficulties they might have been going through in their appointment. They modeled for Sherry and I how families should function within Army ministry. It was a holistic approach before we got all “fancy” with terminologies within the workings of ministry. My parents have devoted their whole hearts and lives in the service of Christ the King first and secondly within The Salvation Army.

Another aspect of their officership was their connection with people that they ministered to. I always joked that my parents knew EVERYONE in the army world because inevitably at large Army functions they would always be engaged in conversation with many many different people from the vastness of the army world. They truly love people and it is a reciprocated response by others in regards to my parents. I recall countless visitations to corps families’ homes in which the conversation went on FOR HOURS…as a child it was torturous, but as I got older the more I realized that in these moments a sweet fellowship had been taking place. My parents know how to engage and how to minister to the hearts of people, of this I am confident of…they love people regardless of background, regardless of station or position. My Mom and Dad understand the necessity for fellowship and love.

Leadership & Personal Reflection:
I might be partial but I am proud of both of my parents and that of their leadership within this Army. They not only dedicated their lives to the work of The Army but they led with integrity and grace. Many consider my father to be tough character and I am not challenging that by any means – He will always let you know where he stands and how he feels. He doesn’t hide his convictions nor, to my knowledge, has he ever wavered in a decision. Sometimes, perhaps he could be intimidating to some but within Him has always been a tender heart for anyone who has been slighted, wronged or oppressed. I have heard it countless times from my father these words – “I do not like bullies” and He, on many occasions stood up to bullies in communities, in corps, even in leadership…I don’t think I have embarrassed him in saying this, it is simply as it should be. Thank you Dad for teaching me to be a voice of reason and a voice to those who have no voice and to fight for those who are weak or slighted by society and certain cast systems in our world. To me, Dad, you are constantly displaying godly leadership and Christ-like integrity. You also taught me how to preach with passion, conviction and eloquence. I remember how diligent you would be in your pastoral studies and in crafting your sermons. How painstakingly assiduous you were (and still are) in producing your sermon manuscripts. You have taught me the value of studying God’s Words and that of relevant life application through your messages. You have made me want to be like you in every way when it relates to preaching God’s mighty word.

My mother, though quiet at times, is quite similar in her leadership style. She is articulate, very intelligent and speaks with similar authority. I have known my mother to read entire books in a matter of a day. She is more of an introvert than my father yet she will always make time for you and to encourage you. I can recall many a phone call from her to do just that as I faced my own days of discouragement. She has always led with conviction and has kept the banner and standard high in her ministry. Though it isn’t evident to many, Sharon Strissel is a rock in our family. She has, in the hardest of circumstances, pulled our family through. I recall Mom making up recipes on the fly in the kitchen on the tiny Island of St. Helena as we ate yet another meal consisting of fish (probably mackerel)…to this day I am still very picky about eating fish. That is just one prime example that sticks out in my mind…but there are so many more episodes of her resolve and strength. To me, Mom, you have been a source of encouragement, hope and love and we are all so much better because of it! As a side note, I remember your messages vividly. I know God has used you in mighty ways as you have spoken around the world. I remember as a child being excited during Salvation Meetings when you would be speaking because I knew your messages would be a lot shorter than that of Dad’s…but they were always on target for those you ministered to.

Some Photos Memories:
(You’re Welcome Mom & Dad)

Colonel's Dennis and Sharon Strissel were both honored to be on the High Council in 2011. — Colonel’s Dennis and Sharon Strissel were both honored to be on the High Council in 2011.

The RMS St. Helena - this is coming off of that vessel, the only way on or off one of the most remote Salvation Army appointments in the world. — The RMS St. Helena – this is coming off of that vessel, the only way on or off one of the most remote Salvation Army appointments in the world.

While stationed at The Athlone Corps in Cape Town South Africa

My Grandmother Louise, Grandfather Stanley, Father Dennis and myself

A candid shot of Mom and Dad with my sister Sherry Blees.

Colonel’s Sharon and Dennis Strissel have devoted over 46 years of their lives (including overseas time) to The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is better because of servants like my parents! They have invested their lives in people. They have labored not in vain but have faithfully served and, through the Holy Spirit, have helped usher souls to Christ. This Army needs more leaders like Colonel’s Sharon and Dennis Strissel! This Army needs more servants like my parents who have loved, served, care for the sick and dying, given hope to the hopeless and befriended countless soldiers of our Army long the way. This Army needs more Officers and Soldiers who will stand, as they have, for truth, integrity, honesty and fight for many who have no voice or lack the strength to fight on their own. This Army needs more Officers and Soldiers who are not interested in selfish gains but in other people and bettering the communities that they serve in. Officers and Soldiers who will lead and who are voices of reason and common sense. Officers and Soldiers who are called by God to win souls for the kingdom. The army needs more leaders like my parents. I am proud of my parents and that of what they have done for the kingdom. My prayer for them is that as they soon find rest in retirement that they continue to serve the Lord faithfully…and of that I have no doubt!

Allow me to take the liberty of saying “Well Done” Colonel’s Dennis and Sharon Strissel!
I am so proud of you both and I know that you have truly exemplified Christ within your service to The Salvation Army.

Well done Mom and Dad! Well done indeed!

July 21, 2014 5

Category: Life