Food

a Biblical thought...
You're going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They'll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But you—keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant. (2 Tim 4:3-5)

a Book thought...
Research done in Australia reveals that young adults view God as something akin to a “cosmic butler” to be called on in times of strife or need, but who then quietly exits so as not to cramp our style. (p113 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
LOW-income Melbourne suburbs have fewer supermarkets than more affluent areas, making it harder for parents to buy fresh food, research shows.One-third of children in low-income suburbs don't eat enough fruit and more than half don't eat enough vegetables - and they are most likely to have a high number of fast-food outlets and convenience stores near their homes. In richer areas there are more butchers, greengrocers and supermarkets, making access to cheap, fresh food much easier. Those without cars in poorer areas are hardest hit because of limited access to fresh food by public transport and on foot, two Deakin University studies show.

To reverse the trend we must do our best to provide healthier options to all no matter what suburb someone can afford to live in. It would be great to have the funds to set up a chain of healthy fast food stores that you could also drive-through in all the poorer suburbs, like a good Subway that was quick and a few dollars cheaper.

Just a thought.

Ideas4all

a Biblical thought...
There's nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us. (2 Tim 3:15-17)

a Book thought...
By worshiping idols, we try to wrestle some of the control back from God; we try to play the spiritual game without God. (p100 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
I just came across a brilliant web site www.ideas4all.com. How it works is that anyone from across the globe can post and idea or a problem and anyone can also respond or give suggestions to help. The Global Brain has currently 1181 ideas and 337 problems and as it is all connected to Google maps you can locate exactly where every thought has come from across the world. The page was only launched a few days ago but already has contributions from 59 countries.

Somehow in the church we also need to tap into the thoughts of any person who wants to contribute. We all have leadership teams which we need to make decisions and manage our congregations effectively, but by only using this group of people we promote their ideas and often don't tap into the greater brain power that lies within our congregations. In scripture the priesthood of all believers is referred to and Martin Luther certainly promoted it, as no matter our status in the church we all have a part to play. So maybe we need a regular ideas4all night at every corps across the territory, a time when anyone can suggest ideas, or raise problems.

Just a thought.

24/7 Prayer

a Biblical thought...
Run after mature righteousness—faith, love, peace—joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God. Refuse to get involved in inane discussions; they always end up in fights. God's servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey. (2 Tim 2:22-24)

a Book thought...
We can buy fair trade and organic yet still live under the framework of consumerism, running from commitment and community, living for self, chasing experience at the expense of intimacy and connection, and treating others like objects. (p93 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
It is great once again to be involved in 24/7 prayer at THQ. I have no doubt that our emphasis on prayer across the territory over the last 12 months has resulted in healthier congregations with our overall attendance on the increase the first time in 10 years.
Prayer is an amazing concept. We talk and listen to an amazing God who we can't actually see, but we are so sure that He is there listening to us. When I pray there is no doubt that I feel God is right there with me even when answers seem to come slower than my human understanding appreciates. I often encourage those that are skeptical of faith to at least pray, as I suggest 'what have you got lose?' You see by praying we have everything to gain and with a God as loving and incredible as we have why would you not spend some time hanging out with Him?

Just a thought.

International students

a Biblical thought...
So keep at your work, this faith and love rooted in Christ, exactly as I set it out for you. It's as sound as the day you first heard it from me. Guard this precious thing placed in your custody by the Holy Spirit who works in us. (2 Tim 1:13-14)

a Book thought...
Our society is youth focused. While other cultures celebrate the elderly for their experience and wisdom, our culture provides plastic surgery for those who wish to look young. (p86 Sayers) a Dave thought... from The Age
International students often tell me they feel like second-class citizens. They openly call themselves "cash cows" and are becoming increasingly resentful when they arrive here only to find they are being taught in overcrowded classrooms in which they are lucky to find a seat.
Students from Asian countries, who account for more than two-thirds of the international cohort, have the worst time. They are exploited by greedy landlords, are victims of racist taunts and are even barred from many city night clubs (unofficially, of course).
Many are frightened and intimidated. It is no wonder they prefer the company and safety of their own. Others gain entry to courses they do not have the language skills to cope with and have to take remedial English classes. With all the tuition in the world, some simply cannot cope, yet the university assured them they would and happily took their money.

The media has continued over the last few months highlighting many needs in our universities. Not only are many students struggling to finance both their studies and accommodation but there are also concerns with assimilation. With 15% of our students being international this brings many varied needs across our shores and the problems are complex. As our educational institutions are desperate to find income sources we will continue to advertise overseas, as when our enrollments are up it does take the pressure off finances. However it seems once again money is put before the concerns of the people we choose to welcome into our country.

Just a thought.

Shots

a Biblical thought...
A devout life does bring wealth, but it's the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that's enough. (1 Tim 6:6-8)

a Book thought...
If the whole world began to consume in the same way we do in the developed world, we would be in serious trouble. (p82 Sayers)
a Dave thought...
I recently came across a sporting quote which says "every shot makes someone happy". I thought about this and soon realised how true it is, because sport is competitive and people have taken sides or are barracking for a particular team or individual we often are often happy when not only sportsmen perform well, but also badly. The difference in a healthy church is that we are all wanting and cheering on everyone to do their very best. It's great when a Christian community is there to support each other whatever shots we are taking.

Just a thought.

An Others Holiday

a Biblical thought...
God and Jesus and angels all back me up in these instructions. Carry them out without favoritism, without taking sides. Don't appoint people to church leadership positions too hastily. If a person is involved in some serious sins, you don't want to become an unwitting accomplice. (1 Tim 5:21-22)

a Book thought...
You can spend all day wishing you had the lifestyle of a Hollywood celebrity, but the fact of the matter is that if you are born in the West, you have won the cosmic lottery. (p81 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
As I was dropping Phil Laeger off at the airport yesterday I was ran into Majors Reno & Ros Elms, the CO's from Unley in South Australia. After a brief conversation I discovered that their family of 5 had just taken a two week vacation of sorts in Bali. But I soon discovered it was no ordinary family holiday as they had chosen to spend the time serving at The Salvation Army's Denpasar Boy's home. It was also great to hear that their 3 boys Josiah who is 17, Levi 14 & Samuel 13 (pictured above) were able to raise $1700 to take with them, which they used to help purchase items such as school uniforms for the 80 boys at the home. These 3 teenagers are a great example of what it means to be a Salvo youth today.


It is easy for us all when we take our holidays to make it all about ourselves but maybe this is something you may want to consider, "an others holiday'' as research tells us one of the best ways to refocus and to relax is to serve others less fortunate than ourselves.

Just a thought.

Stats

a Biblical thought...
Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever. (1 Tim 4:8)

a Book thought...
Life in reality is filled with consequences to our actions; we are not disconnected individuals as the hyperreal world portrays, but rather we live in a connected world where the decisions we make affect our environment and those around us. (p79 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
Being a stats man is mostly good but it can also be disturbing. I recently came across the results from the Australian Census which said in 1996 there were 26,640 people aged between 0-24yo who affiliated themselves with The Salvation Army. Our last census in 2006 now has the figure at 17,921, which equates to a 31.7% drop over the last 10 years.
Like most statistics we can use them how we want, some we choose to dismiss and others we choose to quote, but for me I do find this disturbing. As if this decline continues at this rate our movement will struggle to survive the next few decades in Australia. As I have a major responsibility to make sure this trend does not continue I pray that we will continue to pray, dream and strategise going forward. As we work together my hope is that we will not just continue our programs as a means of survival but rather we continue to think big and take risks to engage many more young people of this nation with God and The Salvation Army.

Just a thought.

Movie of the Year

a Biblical thought...
Servants in the church are to be committed to their spouses, attentive to their own children, and diligent in looking after their own affairs. Those who do this servant work will come to be highly respected, a real credit to this Jesus-faith. (1 Tim 3:13)

a Book thought...
Very often when the inevitable failure of consumerism occurs, the worldview that gets thrown out the door is the Christian worldview; and many attempt to arrive at happiness by ferociously pursuing consumerism without any Christian ethic of restraint. (p71 Sayers)
a Dave thought...
I have just been to see "Salute" and just as everyone promised it is an incredibly moving documentary about the 1968 Olympic games that every Aussie Salvo must see. There are so many positive references to Peter Norman's upbringing as a Salvationist and pictures of him and his wife both in uniform. The founder is quoted as Peter said he was taught from an early age to 'go for souls and go for the worst'. He talks about the great Christian upbringing he had and how his grandparents were Salvation Army officers. The most memorable part for me though is the fact that both of the black American athletes had an amazing respect for Peter's beliefs and his willingness to stand up for the oppressed. Peter passed away on October 3, 2006 but as the ultimate sign of respect both Tommie Smith and John Carlos made their way down to Melbourne for the funeral and carried the casket out of the hall. Instead of wasting your money on Batman do yourself a favour and see the movie of the year "Salute"- you won't be disappointed.

Just a thought.

Salute

a Biblical thought...
The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

a Book thought...
The anxiety of choice means that we are always comparing and often regretting the choices we have made. (Sayers p67)

a Dave thought... http://www.salutethemovie.com/
The Age review states... Rarely has the ability of a documentary to utterly transform one's appreciation of a historical event been so superbly harnessed as in Matt Norman's extraordinary film about the "black power" salute given at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City - and about the remarkable Australian scrupulously sidelined by his own country's history.
On the winners' dais after the men's 200-metre final, Americans Tommie Smith and John Carlos defied protocol by raising their fists to signal to the world the racial tension ripping through the heart of the US. The image became an iconic gesture of defiance and pride.
The third man on the podium was silver medallist Peter Norman, the director's uncle. Though he did not feel it was his right to salute, Norman was deeply involved in what occurred. He, too, was troubled by race relations back home. He had become friends with his competitors and wore a badge in support of their cause.
For that, Norman would be punished for the rest of his life. Australian officials diligently set about ensuring that he be blackballed from anything that brought him recognition, whatever the cost to the country. Despite representing a strong chance to take out his event at the 1972 Olympics in Munich, Norman was denied a spot.

I have had a few people recently tell me that this film which has just hit our cinemas is simply "a must see". As Peter Norman was a Salvationist from the Thornbury corps there are several mentions of his faith and upbringing in the Salvos throughout the 92 minutes. There is footage of the Salvation Army Thornbury band marching up High Street, and it also states the fact that Peter found out he could run at Sunday school picnic running races. It has had outstanding reviews, but more than that to have a young Australian Salvo man stand up for the oppressed on such a public way back in the late 60's is certainly worth a look. Don't miss it!

Just a thought.

Pray & Dream

a Biblical thought...
The whole point of what we're urging is simply love—love uncontaminated by self-interest and counterfeit faith, a life open to God. (1 Tim 1:5)

a Book thought...
Comparison anxiety is when even good things happen to us, they pale in comparison with the shiny, wonderful things offered to us by the hyperreal world. This is because we always compare up not down. (p63 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
I was recently asked what are the two most important things you can pass onto others about ministry. After thinking for a few minutes I replied "to pray and to dream". I believe unless we are connected to God and are in line with His thoughts and concerns our ministry is often fruitless. Secondly I believe God wants us all to do what He is asking of us, not what someone else thinks is a good idea. So once we are connected to God we need to start to think and see a preferred future, as it is when we dream, then act in connection with God that the world truly begins to change.

Just a thought.

Greed

a Biblical thought...
May the Master of Peace himself give you the gift of getting along with each other at all times, in all ways. May the Master be truly among you! (2 Thes 3:16)

a Book thought...
The extra happiness provided by extra income is greatest when you are poor, and then declines steadily as you get richer. (p59 Sayers)
a Dave thought...
In the 11am service at Box Hill yesterday it was great to hear teenagers Nathan Begley & Steph Gourd speak on greed, what they thought it, was and how it is impacting the world today. Greed is the selfish desire for or pursuit of money, wealth, power, food, or other possessions, especially when this denies the same goods to others. After hearing their honest thoughts I was quite convicted personally, and realised it is easy to continually want more in our lives often at the expense of others. It seems the more we see, the more we want. I also realised that even though we sometimes tokenly seem to include young people during services before the real message later on, often their words have just as much power or even more than our well researched adult sermons.

Just a thought.

Phil Laeger

a Biblical thought...
May Jesus himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech. (2 Thes 2:17)

a Book thought...
Many today fear such commitment-based social based institutions because self now takes precedence over commitment. (p51 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
Last night I had the privilege of taking Phil Laeger out to Mitcham for an Eastern Victoria Young Adults evening. Amidst great food and conversation we had a time when Phil shared his story and music with us. Phil has just finished studying music in Boston, USA and is a wonderful song writer. Some may know him for his fresh arrangements of some Salvo classics such as Send the Fire and Boundless Salvation, and others may know some of his original work such as Hero. Phil is married to Sarah and have a 3 year old boy Samuel, as he is in Melbourne for a week do your best to meet him or check him out his talent out at www.phillaeger.com. God has certainly used the gifts of Phil over the years to help many of us to connect to God through music, and I'm sure this will only increase.

Just a thought.

Improve the world

a Biblical thought...
Pray that our God will make you fit for what he's called you to be, pray that he'll fill your good ideas and acts of faith with his own energy so that it all amounts to something. (2 Thes 1:11)

a Book thought...
Individualism fosters an impatience with people and institutions; we can always join another church, find new friends, or get another job. (p43 Sayers)
a Dave thought... from The Age
Pope Benedict XVI warned Christian leaders Friday that the push to unite Christian churches was at a "critical juncture" and called on people of all religions to join together against violence.
The pontiff, leading hundreds of thousands of Catholics in World Youth Day celebrations in Australia, was speaking at separate meetings with leaders from other Christian denominations and other religions.
"I think you would agree that the ecumenical movement has reached a critical juncture," he told around 50 Christian clergy, "We must guard against any temptation to view doctrine as divisive and hence an impediment to the seemingly more pressing and immediate task of improving the world in which we live," he said.
The head of the world's 1.1 billion Catholics was speaking to senior clerics from denominations including the Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran and Uniting churches.

The Christian Church does spend a lot of time and energy disputing doctrine, it seems more and more denominations arise because of our individual differences when it comes to the way we interpret the gospel. I'm with the Pope, lets stop looking for how we differ but rather what we have in common, we all love God & others and want to improve the world. So lets unite and go forward together.

Just a thought.

St Beno 16th

Biblical thought...
Don't suppress the Spirit, and don't stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don't be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what's good. Throw out anything tainted with evil. (1 Thes 5:19-22)

a Book thought...
Like the monks and nuns of the middle ages, we still get up early and commit ourselves to improvement, while they attempted to change their internal spiritual lives today we believe in conversion and salvation through changing the exteriors of ourselves and the things we own. (p38 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
Being at the Papal arrival ceremony was another unforgettable experience. There I was with 140,000 others and watched the pope arrive on the boatcade, then get off and then get in the Pope mobile and drive past us. I have learnt quite a lot this week about St Beno, he has an ipod, he drinks Fanta and beer, he enjoys playing the piano, he wanted to be a bishop ever since he was 5, and is a fond lover of cats. I could not think of another human currently on the earth who would have stopped the crowd like he did yesterday in Sydney. At 81, St Beno continues to inspire millions around the world to live holy lives and as a result it seems people are getting closer to Jesus because of his influence.

Just a thought.

The WYD Cross

a Biblical thought...
Stay calm; mind your own business; do your own job. You've heard all this from us before, but a reminder never hurts. We want you living in a way that will command the respect of outsiders, not lying around sponging off your friends. (1 Thes 4:11-12)

a Book thought...

We now live in a time when consumer Christianity has become the accepted norm, and all-out engagement with and in Jesus' kingdom among us is regarded as just one option people may take if it suits them - but probably as somewhat 'overdoing it'. (p33 Sayers)

a Dave thought...
Best known now as the World Youth Day Cross, it also goes by the names the "Holy Year Cross", the "Jubilee Cross", the "Pilgrim Cross" and the "Youth Cross". It had its beginning in 1984, when celebrating the Holy Year of Redemption, Pope John Paul II desired that there should be a cross - the great symbol of our faith - near the main altar in Saint Peter's where it could be seen by everyone.
At the conclusion of the Jubilee Year Pope John Paul II closed the Holy Door, and the Cross, 3.8m high and 1.75m wide, that had made its home inside, was taken outside and entrusted to a group of young people to be carried out into the world. At that time more than 300,000 young people from all over the world had taken up the Pope's invitation to come to Rome for the Palm Sunday International Jubilee of Youth.
Since this time the WYD Cross has made its way around the world, throughout Europe, behind the Iron Curtain, and to parts of the Americas, Asia, Africa and briefly to Australia, being present at each international celebration of World Youth Day along the way. In 1994 the Cross began in earnest what has since become a tradition: its year long journey around the dioceses of the host nation of each international World Youth Day, as a means of prayerful preparation for the big event.

I found it fascinating yesterday to chat with Father David (pictured above) about the WYD cross and as he explained the history and significance it was once again reminded me about the power of symbolism. As we visited the tent which housed the cross, we saw many line up and take time to kiss the cross and then kneel and pray at the foot of this most loved symbol. Like most symbolism it is not until we understand the history and significance of the icon involved that we really appreciate what it means to others.

Just a thought.

Opening Mass

a Biblical thought...
May God our Father himself and our Master Jesus clear the road to you! And may the Master pour on the love so it fills your lives and splashes over on everyone around you, just as it does from us to you. (1 Thes 3:11)

a Book thought...
The contemporary climate is not religious. People today hunger not for personal salvation but for the feeling, the momentary illusion, of personal well-being. (p23 Sayers)
a Dave thought...
Last night was an amazing experience as we sat under the stars at Darling Harbour and joined over 140,000 others in the opening mass of World Youth Day. Kevin Rudd welcomed us all and stated the fact that without the church we may never have begun schools, hospitals and homes for the poor. He also made the point that faith and reason are both valuable today and despite what others are saying both are needed in Australia today. Archbishop George Pell gave the homily based on Ezekiel 37 and challenged us to let the Holy Spirit breathe life into us all.

This morning as I was chatting with other guests about the evening it was ironic that a Texan teenager commented that she didn't actually go to the mass as she was on a cruise on the harbour. But she did say "it looked absolutely awesome", unfortunately there are many here who are interested in the spectacle but are not that keen to experience faith personally.

Just a thought.

Sydney

a Biblical thought...
God tested us thoroughly to make sure we were qualified to be trusted with this Message. Be assured that when we speak to you we're not after crowd approval—only God approval. (1 Thes 2:3)

a Book thought... from The Trouble with Paris by Mark Sayers
In a fragmented society in which major institutions like the church and the community no longer play the same role of bringing people together, owning identical possessions becomes one of the chief ways in which we experience community, overcoming isolation through shared patterns of consumption. (p19)
a Dave thought...
Last night Aaron & I arrived in Sydney, and as we made our way through the airport to claim our baggage I realised it was no average corporate atmosphere with business suits and suitcases. No, there were young people everywhere with backpacks, flags, faces painted, and most of all a sense of excitement and community. There were groups of 20 and another of 50 arm in arm singing songs in their own languages while they were waiting to be picked up. Yes World Youth Day is here and the vibe is amazing. As everyone is willing to chat it was great to here a conversation on the way back from breakfast this morning at our hotel. "So where are you girls from, Canada?" the sheepish reply came back, "no Tasmania". It is evident there are people from across the globe here, but best of all it doesn't matter our background we are all very welcome.

Just a thought.

Our hope for the future

a Biblical thought...
People come up and tell us how you received us with open arms, how you deserted the dead idols of your old life so you could embrace and serve God, the true God. (1 Thes 1:9)

a Book thought...
People without information cannot act responsibly. People with information are compelled to act responsibly. (p84 Blanchard)
a Dave thought... by Denis Hart - Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne
World Youth Day is the largest youth event on the planet - and the Pope's arrival means it's here. The event in Rome, in 2000, attracted two million pilgrims. Four million people attended the final mass in Manila in 1995.
Melbourne has hosted more than 22000 young people from across the world. Whatever can be said about the World Youth Day instigated by John Paul II, it does brings in the crowds.
Pope Benedict XVI attended his first World Youth Day as pope in 2005 in Cologne when 1.2 million people attended the final mass. World Youth Day is much more than the economic benefits identified by government. Our world's youth are our hope for the future.
At World Youth Day they come together and are inspired to make the world a better place.
WYD re-enforces in our pilgrims a reason for hope and the challenge and command to love as Christ loves. Our capacity for both is limitless.
Through sermons, lectures and public addresses pilgrims are told human kind can and must eradicate the poverty and suffering we see. They are told that the family is a great institution one that must be protected and nourished, and that life long commitment between a man and woman in marriage is possible.

As I am heading up to the WYD tonight it is good to read what the Catholic leaders are hoping to achieve out of this event. Many of the themes you read here would be much the same if The Salvation Army were to run a similar event. Also interesting how a poll by social networking giant MySpace brands the Catholic Church "out of touch" with young people. The online poll, which targeted Australians aged 14 to 24, found 77 per cent of respondents felt the church was out of touch with them. Hopefully us Salvos would get a better result, but maybe if we face the facts we are also sometimes out of touch ourselves.

Just a thought.

Finals

a Biblical thought...
Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out. (Col 4:6)

a Book thought...
All great companies and teams have a visionary leader at the helm, who is always pointing at the kind of organisation they're going to be. People have a need to follow this type of leader. (p81 Blanchard)
a Dave thought...
It's been a great week of high quality basketball with the last day producing some classic finals. Congratulations to South Australia for winning the A Grade for the sixth consecutive year, as James Smith continues to remind me, Northern Territory for taking out the U18 girls and B Grade ladies, and Western Australia for winning both the U18 boys and U14 mixed finals. The last 7 days have been a great chance for people to mix, chat, play sport, and explore a relationship with Jesus. There has been many who have come to faith over the years at these carnivals and once again there were a few boys who gave their heart to Jesus. A huge thanks to Major Trevor Nicols, DYS from the Sydney Greater West division for such a memorable week.

Just a thought.

Somerton Thunder

a Biblical thought...
Be content with obscurity, like Christ, and that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That's a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God. (Col 3:5-6)

a Book thought...
If God had wanted us to talk more than listen, He would have given us two mouths rather than two ears. (p76 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
I have had a lot of fun this week playing 11 games (I missed one as my finger was reset after the dislocation) of basketball, and this is mainly due to great bunch of blokes from Somerton Baptists who I played with for the South Australian B Grade team. These guys are so into the game they have their own basketball website @ http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=somertonthunder


Our team played with great spirit throughout the carnival and had a lot of fun, we prayed before every game and even though our team plays hard there was no biffo with the other team. Also I have never been involved with so many honest calls to give the ball to the opposition on the sideline after a disputed out of bounds. At the end of every game we all gathered, both teams in a large circle arm in arm to give three cheers for each team and one to the refs. So to Josh, Bando, Ben, Howie, & Nick thanks for an awesome week.

Just a thought.

iPhone arrives

a Biblical thought...
I want you woven into a tapestry of love, in touch with everything there is to know of God. Then you will have minds confident and at rest, focused on Christ, God's great mystery. (Col 2:2)

a Book thought...
The trouble with being in a rat race is that even if you win the race, you're still a rat. (p64 Blanchard)
a Dave thought...
The iPhone has hit Melbourne - for those that were prepared to queue in the CBD through the night. The Telstra [T]Life store in Bourke Street opened its doors at 6am to about 150 people - but a combination of queue number cards and security staff prevented anything close to a stampede.
Alex Ho, whose 10pm arrival last night was rewarded with the No.1 ticket, couldn't wait get get inside and get his hands on the Apple phone. The reason? So he could go home, plug it in to the charger and finally get some sleep. Not only had Mr Ho never queued like this before, he had never even owned the precursor to the iPhone, the iPod music player. He said he just really like the iPhone's touch screen, and that it worked on the fast 3G phone networks.

Apple's new iPhone combines three devices in one, the standard phone, an iPod music player, plus an Internet browser. So you can communicate with friends, listen to your favourite music, and connect with the world anywhere at anytime. 10 years ago you would have needed a mobile phone, a CD Walkman, and a computer. The world is changing rapidly, lets make sure the church keeps up so our Gen Y & Gen X guys don't walk back into the 70's every time they turn up to church.

Just a thought.

Who is God?

a Biblical thought...
For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. He was there before any of it came into existence and holds it all together right up to this moment. And when it comes to the church, he organizes and holds it together, like a head does a body. (Col 1:16-18)

a Book thought...
When you are interested in doing something, you only do it when it's convenient, but when you are committed, you follow through no matter what - no excuses! (p51 Blanchard)
a Dave thought...
I recently came across this website http://www.reachingtheonlinegeneration.com/ which is a great way to stay up to date with the Internet and how God can be a part of the web community.

Who is God?' was one of the top three sentences googled in 2007, according to Google Zeitgeist. According to Alexa, the top two religious websites are Muslim, with BibleGateway coming in at a close third. The Online Generation is spiritual. They are seeking. And the church is the last place they would go to find spiritual fulfillment. This site is dedicated to those walking with The Online Generation and living lives of obedience to all the commands of Jesus Christ.

The fact that you are reading his blog will mean that you access information online and probably involved in social networking. I personally have made some great connections online and have had many great conversations with people searching for God since I've been blogging and on Facebook over the last 12 months. So I encourage you to get involved as more people are searching online than ever before, and less are coming to church.

Just a thought.

Goodbye

a Biblical thought...
Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. (Phil 4:6-7)

a Book thought...
People with humility don't think less of themselves, they just think of themselves less. (p46 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
It is amazing how many conversations I have with Salvationists who are concerned with losing their young adults from their corps to other churches. I personally have had a few friends over the years who have moved on to other denominations over the years and although it was sad to lose them, they are still serving and bringing others into God's Kingdom. Those that end up at other churches often have left for legitimate reasons in their eyes. Some have found our focus on the marginalised not part of what they believe God has called them to, others want to go somewhere fresh and new, others want to go to a church that has more for their children, and for others our strict soldiership requirements with our non-drinking stance they find archaic.

I believe we should be more concerned with those that don't align themselves with a faith community at all, rather than those that find another faith community. As we are a very unique part of the Christian Church I don't believe we should water down membership or change our focus to cater for more people rather I believe we should remain a unique fighting force that although often small in number that we continue to have a massive impact for God in our community. I find when we focus on mission the more young adults want to sign up but when we just sit around and worship then there is no reason to be a Salvo, and they will move to other churches who do Sundays better. Surely the lost, the least, and the last should consume our energy more than those that are just looking for a better place to feed themselves on Sundays.

Just a thought.

Women Bishops

a Biblical thought...
Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. Compared to the high privilege of knowing Christ Jesus as my Master, firsthand, everything I once thought I had going for me is insignificant—dog dung. I've dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ and be embraced by him. (Phil 3:8)

a Book thought...
Make your people responsible for doing high-quality work by responding to their needs and supporting them. That places the responsibility at the appropriate level - with the people who do the work. (p43 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
The Church of England voted Monday to allow the ordination of women bishops following a divisive debate which pitched conservatives against liberals. This a key moment for their denomination but having women in spiritual leadership is something we as Salvationists have always embraced for 143 years.

Some of us often think the Army needs to be more progressive and radical, but we must also remember the many things we got right from our very beginning. Areas we got right include - women in leadership, our focus on the marginalised, 24/7 committed soldiership, a focus on getting the gospel out of the church, and a realisation that physical and social needs must be met if the gospel is to be preached. The Army certainly has a great future if we continue to embrace these strengths, and be the Army who God intends us to be.

Just a thought.

Basketball Carnival

a Biblical thought...
Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand. (Phil 2:3-4)

a Book thought...
If you don't take time out to think. strategise, and prioritise, you will work a whole lot harder, without enjoying the benefits of a job smartly done. (p25 Blanchard)
a Dave thought...
It was great to be part of the opening service at the Gold Coast Temple last night to kick off The 2008 Salvation Army National Basketball & Netball Carnival. The last time I was involved was 1995 when I played for Victoria, but my first association with the carnival goes back to 1986 when I played for South Australia in Perth. This year I am playing B Grade basketball with SA here on the Gold Coast and with 3 games a day at age 37, I'm sure there is going to be some personal pain, if I make it through the 6 days!

There has been many debates over the years about the validity of the carnival and how much time and resources we should invest into it, with many of us attending the Hillsong Conference and other events in preference over the years. I still remember my first carnival in 86, as I personally knelt and prayed at Perth Fortress to ask God to take over my life as the then TYS Wally Golding lead an altar call. Maybe I wouldn't be an officer today if it wasn't for the carnival, but regardless of me surely in our Australian sporting culture there is a place where God, sport and youth can mix together for a week.

Just a thought.

Virgin

a Biblical thought...
So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. (Phil 1:9-10)

a Book thought...
Since organisations are being bombarded with change, you would be wise to make learning a top priority and constantly strive to adapt to new circumstances. (p21 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
Virgin airline has put in an order for 15 787-9 Dreamliners, which use 20 per cent less fuel for every passenger onboard than other planes of a similar size.Quieter takeoffs and landings are also promised by the aircraft, which is set to be launched next year, with passengers able to benefit from cleaner air, larger windows, increased stowage space and enhanced lighting onboard. "This revolutionary aircraft will bring a step change to the industry, substantially reducing environmental impact and incorporating innovative design and advanced technology, while providing an enhanced flying experience for our passengers."

Last night I flew into Sydney from Perth and could not help but notice how many references there were that I was travelling on an eco-friendly airline. Not only was the plane designed to use less fuel, but the in-flight magazine was on recycled paper and the most impressive thing was that the urinals at the terminal used 96% less water. I think the church can take note here as surely we should also be making a huge effort in all areas to practice and promote a environmentally friendly Salvation Army.

Just a thought.

Paul Moulds

a Biblical thought...
Fathers, don't exasperate your children by coming down hard on them. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master. (Eph 6:4)

a Book thought...
An effective leader must step back, look at the big picture, and make sure the important things are not pushed out of the way by the urgent needs of the moment. (p17 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
At 'marching as to war' yesterday the afternoon session was set aside for Captain Paul Moulds to share about youth homelessness. This was a very informative time and it was very moving to hear the stories behind the young people we see in the movie. It was also a great initiative by the division to invite social workers from across all sectors in Western Australia which resulted in over 200 being present.

Chatting with Paul over dinner it was great to hear the impact the Oasis movie has had across the country. 1.2 million viewers watched the movie on April 10 and over 8 million came across the stories and statistics that week through the print media and breakfast shows. With our Red Shield Appeal donations up considerably I have no doubt it had a direct relation to the real stories and amazing work communicated to the public through this powerful documentary. Last night though was even more incredible as Paul shared his testimony and to hear how the SA & God have just been in his life every step of the way. I'm sure God will continue to use this humble man who has an incredible heart to reach the lost, the last and the least.

Just a thought.

Joseph Perry

a Biblical thought...
Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. (Eph 5:2)

a Book thought...
Norman Vincent Peale taught me that we have two choices everyday. We can feel good about ourselves, or we can feel lousy about ourselves. Why would anyone choose the latter? (p13 Blanchard)

a Dave thought...
Booth, in collaboration with the man above - Joseph Perry produced the most famous of all the Limelight era presentations, Soldiers of the Cross. Twelve months in the planning and making, the multimedia presentation consisted of fifteen 90-second film clips (3,000 feet), 200 hand-coloured lantern slides, music and spoken narrative by Herbert Booth. It was themed around the startling, stirring and often brutal stories of the early Christian martyrs and their devotion, their daring and their deaths.

Yesterday at the Marching as to War conference, a lady politely approached me to buy a copy of my book INSANE: the stories of crazy Salvos who changed the world. When I had passed a copy of the book over she then immediately opened it to the page with the picture of Joseph Perry on it. Proudly she continued to tell me that she is good friends with Joseph Perry's grandson who is now in his sixties living in Sydney. So as he was seeing him this weekend she was taking this copy of INSANE up to him as a present, because he is proud of his grandfather and often talks fondly of him.

Just a thought.

Marching as to War

a Biblical thought...
Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted. (Eph 4:30)

a Book thought... from The Heart of a Leader by Blanchard
Feedback is the breakfast of champions. (Tate)

a Dave thought...
Last night was the opening service for Marching as to War, a mini conference held at Floreat Park Corps in Western Australia. Major Iain Trainor gave the message from Acts 2 and he reflected on the fact that Jesus was a revolutionary person while he lived on this earth, and William Booth attempted to do the same. He left us with challenge that unless we connect with a revolutionary God and have the Holy Spirit in us The Salvation Army will never reach its potential in these days. God did raise up The Salvation Army and I believe it is not time to turn the lights off yet.

What also grabbed my attention last night was a 20 year-old guy called Joel I met just briefly. As we were having tea together I discovered that he is a very successful 400 metre runner who is on track to be part of the Olympic team in 2012. The reason he wanted to come last night was to sing the Founder's song O Boundless Salvation. So at the conclusion of the meeting he got his wish as we sang the whole 7 verses together as a benediction. I think this Army may tick on for another 143 years with its amazing heart for God and people, its just going to take on a different look.

Just a thought.

143 today!

a Biblical thought...
God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. (Eph 3:20)

a Book thought...
The best traditions are the ones that point to the future through effective ministries that reach people now. (p231 McIntosh)a Dave thought...
It was this day 143 years ago that The Salvation Army began. It was this date when William Booth preached at the first tent meeting on the Quaker Burial Ground in Whitechapel. It was no accident that we began in the poorest part of London preaching to the marginalised, but we were different to other churches as it was not only the message we were offering, but also practical assistance. During our early years you could read on the walls of our homeless shelters: 'No man need beg, steal, starve, sleep out at nights, be a pauper or commit suicide. We will help you!'

Although we don't want to dwell on the past, today why don't you at least ask how you are helping grow the kingdom through your branch of The Salvation Army. For William it certainly wasn't an occupation of convenience, but rather an obsession as this church was literally running every night of the week. He desired to see all people saved and be able to give the opportunity for everyone in this world to live a life with a job, a bed to sleep on, and food to eat. So today remember we didn't start in a church building on a Sunday preaching to those who had their lives together, but rather in a tent at a cemetery on a weeknight in the poorest part of town.

Just a thought.

Boundless Salvation

a Biblical thought...
Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand. (Eph 2:3-4)

a Book thought...
It is crucial that the worship team be intergenerational. The leaders who are seen on the platform influence the people who will attend the service. (p221 McIntosh)

a Dave thought...
Last night was the launch of the Boundless Salvation DVD series. After 10 years of discussions and working parties it is great to see the final product. I am one who loves to explore the history and theology of our movement and this 4 disc series complete with workbook is a great tool for us all to use.

As INSANE: the stories of crazy salvos who changed the world (Munn & Collinson), also got some airtime last night, it hit me once again how important it is for us to explore our past in depth. For me it wasn’t until I heard John Cleary and the stories of our past that the present began to make sense. Why God shaped us as international missional movement that is focused on the marginalized all starts to fall in place when we absorb the heart of who we were. But moreso what interests me now is using the wisdom and purposefulness of the past to shape the future. So as it has been said before lets: cherish the past, adorn the present but most of all construct for the future.

Just a thought.