Booth's Lighthouse

a Biblical thought...
But Jesus was irate and let them know it: "Don't push these children away. Don't ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. (Mark 10:14)

a Book thought...
It seems more people are doing their homework about the bible outside the church than they are inside the church. (p196 Kimball)

a Dave thought...
Does the surging sea look dark and dangerous? Unquestionably it is so. There is no doubt that the leap for you, as for everyone who takes it means difficulty and scorn and suffering. For you it may mean more than this. It may mean death. He who beckons you from the sea, however, knows what it will mean - and knowing, He still calls to you and bids you come.
You must do it! You cannot hold back. You have enjoyed yourself in Christianity long enough. You have had pleasant feelings, pleasant songs, pleasant meetings, pleasant prospects. There has been much of human happiness, much clapping of hands and shouting of praises - very much of heaven on earth. (Who Cares? - William Booth)

Last night we concluded the concert with a 30 minute whole school production based on William Booth's lighthouse vision from Darkest England and the Way Out. This poster which was published in 1890 and included in the front of every copy of his book still speaks to us today. We asked the campers to brainstorm from the picture ideas to include in our mini production. The final result was powerful as parts of the 'who cares' speech was also included.

It is interesting how in the last 15 years every Salvation Army corps attempts to write a new vision and mission statement for their church and then updates it depending on how the new corps officer feels or after the latest conference he has attended. It seems simple to me - this vision William Booth had for our stream of the Christian church is biblical and has lasted a 118 years so my advice is lets stop rewriting the script and get on board.

Just a thought.