Holidays begin

Tomorrow our family is going on a two week holiday to WA. We are very much looking forward to the break and I'm sure the blogosphere will survive without me until I return on Monday December 14.

Also if you want some light entertainment on Saturday December 5 go to http://www.ironmanwa.com/ and you will hopefully see me on the live stream competing in the Busselton Ironman. I will speak to you all in a couple of weeks.

Just a rest.

General Eva

a Biblical thought...
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. (2 Thess. 2:16-17)

a Book thought...
Those who listen closely to the Lord and subsequently do as he directs obviously love him. Conversely, people who constantly resist God’s directions are demonstrating their lack of love for God. (p52)

a Dave thought...
Last night was a sensational evening as we celebrated General Eva Burrows 80th birthday. To hear the stories of her life was truly inspiring. Eva was made General at 59 and held this appointment for seven years. She was the youngest ever appointed general and the second woman. During her first five years as general she visited 62 countries and her words were translated into 41 languages.

As part of the celebrations Carol Jaudes from NY gave a world exclusive performance of “The 3 Bonnets” which was just incredible being both entertaining and informative. After being amazed by Eva's achievements I am reminded of meeting her as a teen over twenty years ago when she greeted me by name and always knew what I was up to, this has continued even to this very day. Eva is a living legend and as she is aptly described Eva Burrows will always be known as “The People’s General.”

Just a thought.

Theology of Space

a Biblical thought...
May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. (1 Thess. 3:12-13)

a Book thought...
Our experience cannot be the measure by which we understand Scripture. Scripture must be the standard by which we evaluate our experience. (p50)
a Dave thought... LeadershipJournal.net

We must think beyond the seating capacity of our buildings and start considering how our spaces are forming, reinforcing, and even transforming the values of those who enter them. Space, like language, is a medium of communication, and we serve a God who cares greatly about communicating with his world.
We too must allow for flexibility while holding strongly to the centrality of Christ in our gatherings, no matter what kind of space we are using. Are we forming our communities and engaging in fellowship around Word and Sacrament, or is something else taking their rightful place? Consider that in many churches the coffee bar has displaced the Lord's Table as the place where real community happens. Due in part to the neutralizing of sacred space that has been popular since the 1980s, churches began removing or deemphasizing the Lord's Table and introducing coffee bars. Without doubt the desire has been to build community by offering people a culturally familiar setting to engage one another. But we must ask: What formative message does a coffee bar convey?
A coffee bar mostly carries the values of our culture. We've come to expect coffee bars to offer a number of choices to meet our desires (decaf, tea, hot chocolate), and the setting is one of leisure and comfort. We usually gather in affinity groups. We sip the beverages not because we're thirsty but because we're conditioned to want them.
By contrast, what does the Lord's Table convey? It is a symbol of sacrificial love that breaks down cultural divisions and barriers of affinity. It reminds us that life is about being chosen by the Lord for interpersonal communion rather than choosing to consume stuff, and it reminds us we are called to take up our cross rather than seek personal comfort.

Just a thought.

Georgie

a Biblical thought...
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. (Colossians 3:12-13)

a Book thought...
God reveals at least three primary things to us when he speaks. He reveals his character, his purposes, and his ways. (p45)
a Dave thought...
As we prepare to move down to Geelong in a few weeks there has been a few things that we have had to bring to an end. One of these unfortunately was the life of our dog Georgie. We purchased our bearded collie back in June 1995 for my wife for her birthday, so she has been with us over 14 years. According to the chart at the vet she was the equivalent to about 90 human years. It was very sad as she struggled to climb into the back of the car and make the final drive down to see Dr Rod Wynne. The diagnosis was not great - she has very poor sight, & her back legs are in a lot of pain. The time had come to say goodbye. There have been a few tears in the family but someone had to make the call soon. Even with an animal euthanasia is a massive decision and one that cannot be reversed. I'm sure we made the right decision putting her to sleep, and just hope that doggie heaven is everything that its cranked up to be.

Just a thought.

32,000 to go

a Biblical thought...
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

a Book thought...
God's choice to communicate in so many diverse ways forces us to put our faith in him, not a method. (p42)
a Dave thought...
I caught up with Nath Moulds from Oasis in Sydney this week and he put me on to their new campaign...

Oasis, the Salvation Army’s youth outreach organisation in Surry Hills has embarked on an ambitious plan to reduce youth homelessness.
The campaign entitled ‘32,000 to Go’ was launched this month to raise awareness of the 32,000 people under the age of 24 who sleep outdoors every night.
Director of Oasis, Paul Moulds, said the campaign was about ensuring marginalised young people have access to the opportunities, support and help that they need and deserve. It seeks to activate a grass roots network involving everyone from individuals through to businesses and governments.
‘’We’re asking people to visit the campaign website, http://www.32000togo.com.au and spread the word by using Facebook and Twitter, by calling talkback radio, by writing letters to editors and MPs,’’ Captain Moulds said “We can no longer ignore this issue, and neglect our youngest and most vulnerable citizens”.

Just a thought.

New 2Love website

a Biblical thought...
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe. (Philippians 2:14-15)

a Book thought...
Since Hezekiah's day the world has changed by quantum leaps, but one thing remains the same; God continues to communicate with people. (p210
a Dave thought...
After months of amazing work by our talented designer Aaron Mills we have our new 2Love web page live. The page is a resource mainly to CO's and youth leaders with information regarding funding, gap years, and numerous links to resources we believe will help you take your youth closer to God. There are over 40 new cell downloads written by Aaron White which are great for those who run a bible study and want an alternative to Corps Cadets. You will also discover wallpapers and a calendar that will have all the youth events happening across the territory in 2010. www.2love.salvationarmy.org.au

Just a thought.

MCD Youth

a Biblical thought...
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

a Book thought...
There are two ways of knowing things. One is in the mind by thought or idea and the other is in living by experience. (p15)
a Dave thought...
On Sunday night Kylie and I ventured over to Brimbank Salvation Army to the Melbourne Central Youth Service. DYO Captain Christopher Garcia did a great job putting the night together which featured the Brimbank worship team and the amazing "Band-Aid" the dance group pictured above which features the talented Harding girls. Dave Fuller from God Squad, preached about the woman who touched Jesus cloak and reminded us of the amazing transformation Jesus made in the lives of others. The highlight for me however was the testimony from Candidate Kris Halliday, his story of hardship and challenge is heartbreaking but at the same time inspiring. God surely does continue to change lives and Kris is living proof of the difference Jesus can make in your life. Let us never forget the power of personal testimony.

Just a thought.

Stan Walker

a Biblical thought...
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:8-10)

a Book thought...
Some people are more comfortable dealing with doctrines than they are with responding to a living, ruling, righteous God. (p12)



a Dave thought...
Unlike most people in Australia I am just catching up on the sensational Stan Walker, winner of Australian Idol last night. He has been very open about his faith, above is the Chris Tomlin version of Amazing Grace Stan sung so expressively a few weeks ago and below is some excerpts from his interview with The War Cry…

While Walker has mostly sung in church, music was always a part of his life. ‘My whole family is quite musical and it’s in my [Maori] culture; it’s just in our blood’. But it was also something of a lifeline for him.
‘I’ve always been crazy. This is me—I’m always loud and I am who I am on the stage and off the stage, behind the scenes, everywhere. That’s what I try to pride myself on, just being me everywhere I am. And my whole family is like that—you know when the Walkers are around!’But despite his high-energy persona, he knows the importance of taking time out to regenerate. He does this through quiet times of reflection when he prays and reads the Bible.‘I make sure every morning and in the afternoon I have my quiet times. Those quiet times are when I really get my strength, when I’m praying and seeking God and learning my Bible,’ Walker says.‘I sometimes go through the same verses just to remind myself of them. I love the verses in the Bible that say we are the light of the world and that we need to shine. One of my favourite verses is “Call to me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you do not know”.‘It’s like if I just ask then I will receive. My biggest prayer is that I will live my life with actions and not words. And that people will see my actions, instead of me just talking about it.’

Just a thought.

Prayerful Cricket

a Biblical thought...
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (Galatians 5:22-26)

a Book thought...
People who make decisions based merely on what seems most advisable to them will inevitably choose something inferior to God's best. (p5)

a Dave thought... from The Herald Sun
The West Indies have introduced a daily ritual of prayer they hope will bond the team during its Australian tour.
Deeply religious West Indies coach David Williams - the pint-sized former Test wicketkeeper - said the prayer sessions had helped bring the team together from recent turmoil.
The team was split by a recent players' strike and has won just three of its past 39 Tests.
"It (the prayer) is part of the team unity, part of the team coming together," Williams said.
"We pray the camaraderie is the way it is meant to be and the match will be played in the right spirit."
"It is prayer not just for the team but for our families and loved ones back home."

Just a thought.

All Melbourne Matters

a Biblical thought...
For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:19-20)

a Book thought...
When communicating across generation gaps an unresponsive audience haven't necessarily rejected the substance of the message - just the style of its communication. Visual and verbal are both required in a multimodal, prove-it, walk-the-talk culture. (p211)
a Dave thought...
Here are some stats and quotes I thought were worth posting from All Melbourne Matters (Feb 2009)...

• About 300,000 (8.3%) of people in Melbourne attend Church on a typical Sunday


• About 144,000 (4%) of the 1.7million (48%) of under 34s are at Church on a typical Sunday


• 53% of attenders are over 55 years (including 33% of church leaders)


• Melbourne population is increasing by 180,000pa while church attendance is declining by about 5000pa
  
  "While some of the Y-generation and younger are highly motivated and committed to social justice issues and engagement in society and institutions such as the Church, they are the exception. Many young people are not willing to sit in meetings that are not interactive, and are disinclined to accept being told what they should believe."
  
  "Young people in Melbourne are looking for people's lives and actions to reflect what they say (or preach). Before being interested or willing to commit to a movement or message they are looking to see what the end product looks like. To engage young people in the future, the Church that preaches a Gospel of love and unity will need to have dealt with division and unforgiveness in the structures and relationships."
  (Quotes from Christian Research Assoc. Youth Spirituality Seminar 2007)
  
  Just a thought.

Vomit

a Biblical thought...
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

a Book thought...
While the Builders are most influenced by authority figures and Boomers make decision based on data and facts, postmodern youth are more likely to make a decision based on the influence of their own peers. (p184)

a Dave thought...
Josiah, my two and a half year old son is a very cute child but along with that comes a fetish towards vomiting. Yesterday afternoon was a great example of this and the results are seen clearly above. As I was the sole parent during his time I went into clean up mode, which I am gradually improving my skills in, so I put Josiah in the bath and began to scrub the carpet. It wasn't long however till I heard my little angel yell out "Daddy, get glove, daddy get glove!" I went into the bathroom to witness my son had some success in the 'number two's' area. So along with the vomit on the carpet came a poo in the bath, so to my son's request I fitted a disposable glove and fished out his deposit. I must admit even though parenting is often fun it can also be a lot of work. I sometimes wonder how God, our heavenly father goes with us, because even though I'm sure He thinks we're all cute, He also has to do some cleaning up along the way.

Just a thought.

Packing & Memories

a Biblical thought...
But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving. (2 Corinthians 8:7)

a Book thought...
In a survey we asked Gen X and Y participants what bothered them most about older workers. The majority of participants selected: 'They often stop fresh and innovative ideas from taking effect.' (p172)

a Dave thought...
As we continued to pack box no. 57 last night I couldn't help but stop to read articles, booklets and look at reports we have gathered along the way. Kylie and I have a pretty tight filing system so as we were trying to cull some papers it ended up being a trip down memory lane. I read the 1986 letter from the DY of South Australia Captain Frank Daniels inviting me to return to Music Camp free of charge on scholarship. Then there was the 1999 War Cry article on 'Go the Distance' when I was interviewed about my first marathon. But probably what stood out to me most was the letters of encouragement I received from leaders and bosses over the last 20 years. My CO at Box Hill, Major Raymond Finger when I was just getting started in ministry often wrote letters which inspired and spurred me on. My principal Margaret Leahy at Santa Maria College who also often encouraged me as I established a new music program. It made me wonder how many people I have encouraged along the way and who just might have a letter from me. It is a challenge for all of us to look out for others and spur each other on. Anyway at the end of the night once again I said to my wife "lets keep these".

Just a thought.

Bless Austell

a Biblical thought...
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:17-18)

a Book thought...
In the workplace Gen Y's expect to be treated as equals, they expect to have choices and input into decision-making processes, expectations that run counter to hierarchical systems of leadership. (p170)
a Dave thought...
Like many other smaller churches, 170-member Austell First United Methodist Church struggled with several limitations. The congregation’s membership no longer matches the demographics of its surrounding community. The church lacks Sunday morning children’s and youth ministries, and struggles just to hold its tiny, five-member choir together. Church members concluded it was time to try another approach. “Our community has changed, and thus our definition of a successful church has had to change as well,” said Mr. DeHart. “We decided that if people won’t come to us, we’ll go to them.”

The church crafted a new vision, dubbed “Bless Austell,” focused on blessing and serving the community. As part of that vision, church members articulated core values: “God goes before us,” “Deliver radical love that amazes the world it touches,” “Be the hands and feet of Christ,” “Leave the results to God” and “Make people wonder why we are doing this.” New ongoing programs for the community were created, including free midweek aerobics classes, a free community dinner (Grace Cafe) every Thursday night and a tuition-free, weekday preschool (Feed My Lambs) for lower-income families. The church is also reaching out to engage area schools. At nearby Austell Primary School, church members host teacher-appreciation lunches twice a year, volunteer at the school's annual Spring Fling, and recently purchased and laid 60 bales of pine straw at the school. The church has begun new outreaches with Austell Intermediate and Garrett Middle Schools as well. In addition, Austell First supports the community food pantry and clothes closet, delivers birthday baskets of goodies to residents at an assisted-living home and provides volunteers at community events.While Austell First members are focusing outward, they’ve also seen some changes take place inside the church along the way. Giving is up over 20 percent as God provides for the mission. http://www.blessaustell.com/

Just a thought.

Hope for Life

a Biblical thought...
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:20-22)

a Book thought...
Leaders rely on their relational skills, not positional ranks, as today people respond better to emotional rather than rational appeals. (p167)
a Dave thought...
Wilma Gallet on Saturday night in Healesville reminded us all about the injustice that happens around us everyday. She asked us to no longer sit around idly and just observe the sad things that happen but rather be willing as Salvos to respond practically. Wilma went on to tell us that in 1907 the first Suicide Prevention Bureau was set up by William Booth in London and quickly expanded to many cities around the world. Suicide is still common today with a million people a year choosing to end their lives, tragically through a sense of hopelessness. That is one person every 40 seconds. In Australia alone 1880 people took their lives in 2007, more than the national road toll.

As people involved in caring for others at crucial times, we share in the experience of grief and loss. Salvation Army Officers, counsellors and Chaplains provide words of comfort on a daily basis, support and encouragement to people whose lives have been devastated by the loss of a loved one. Information and training programs are available through Hope for Life and are designed to help you to know how to respond to people who may be at risk of suicide and those who have been bereaved by suicide. http://salvos.org.au/suicideprevention/

Just a thought.

Op 58

a Biblical thought...
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

a Book thought...
Many young workers quit jobs not because there is a compelling reason to leave but because there is no compelling reason to stay. (p144)

a Dave thought...
On Saturday night I headed out to the Operation 58 gathering at Healesville and was fortunate to hear Wilma Gallet speak on the subject of suicide prevention. Eastern Victoria DYS Envoy Grant Whitehead has done a great job this year establishing this innovative fundraising campaign which originated in South Australia. Since its inception the results have been amazing...100 kids + 2 years + 100 pigs = $30,000 and built 1 orphanage.

Operation 58 is a self-denial program that runs all year round. It finances the creation of orphanages in Cambodia through the Cambodian Hope Organisation in partnership with Be a Hero Australia. At an operation 58 night you covenant to go without something, Coke for instance, so that you can put the money that you would’ve spent in your op58 pig. Once a term we gather together to empty our pigs. It is inspired by Isaiah 58 where the Lord declares that he wants “fasting that feeds the poor.” The lord wants self-denial that doesn’t just result in personal piety but meets the needs of vulnerable people. We think that there is something powerful in a justice initiative that is based in self-denial; that God doesn’t just want action and he doesn’t just want our money but he also wants our hearts.
http://operation58.wordpress.com/

Just a thought.

Myer Christmas Parade

a Biblical thought...
To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. (1 Cor 9:22-23)

a Book thought...
Workers today look to have multiple needs met at work. For them, it’s also about fun, social connection, training, personal development, greater fulfilment and even environmental sustainability, in addition to achieving task outcomes and receiving financial rewards. (p136)

a Dave thought...
The Myer Christmas Parade was held yesterday in the heart of Melbourne and as a current member of the MSB it was fun to be a part of it. There is no doubt in my mind that the Salvos should make the most of every public opportunity to be involved and this was one of those occasions. The Salvation Army was designed to be on the road with our uniforms, flags and mobile brass bands yet in recent years seem to have less and less presence in the community. I pray that we will continue to get out of our buildings and take our message to the streets, even if if it is a bit hot and uncomfortable on occasions.

Just a thought.

The Starfish Manifesto

a Biblical thought...
What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. (1 Corinthians 5:12-13)

a Book thought...

When it comes to communicating to Gen Y the more we create an environment conducive to engaging with the head (knowledge), hands (application) and heart (inspiration), the more likely the learning will be embedded. (p122)

a Dave thought...
A few years ago I heard Wolfgang Simson and was amazed by his passion and unique ministry. I have since read "Houses that Change the World" and was also incredibly moved. His latest book The Starfish Manifesto also looks like a must read. Wolfgang says...

"Dear friends, after a long time in the making I am happy to finally present the release of "The Starfish Manifesto", my latest book. We released it in Antioch this October. You can download for free it as a pdf file at http://www.starfishportal.net/ Probably the largest reformation of all times in Church history is in full swing. It is the combination of a threefold current initiative of God: moving from church to Kingdom as our legal base; moving from pastoral, teacher-based & evangelistic to apostolic and prophetic foundations; and departing from a market-shaped behaviour to a kingdom-shaped economy.You are free to pass this book (and the key-file) on to as many people as you like, including posting it on websites."

The Starfish Manifesto is not a ventilation of brainpower neither is it an abstract collection
of statistics, historical data, scriptures, experiences nor academically enriched paragraphs. It is however a spiritual life buoy that seeks to rescue the church from it desultory practices. (Anderson Williams)

Just a thought.

Citysalvos

a Biblical thought...
The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14)

a Book thought...
A significant part of the problem with contemporary education is that it aims to teach 21st century learners by combining a 20th century curriculum with a 19th century structure. (p108)

a Dave thought...
Ben Fewster is a long time friend who I have always admired for his love for God and his passion for ministry. As he returns to Adelaide it is really encouraging to see him return to ministry within the Salvation Army. His vision is to see a contemporary vibrant congregation that lives out our mission and values as a movement. Ben is a gifted leader and I have no doubt God will be with him and his team as they go on this exciting journey together. I pray that Citysalvos will have an incredible Godly impact on all who come in contact with them. I am sure that there will be some amazing growth there in the heart of the Adelaide CBD in the days ahead.

This summary is from their great new webpage www.citysalvos.com
Citysalvos is a progressive new congregation being planted in the CBD of Adelaide in February 2010. Citysalvos will be an exciting mix of a fresh, innovative and relevant new model of church that strongly reflects The Salvation Army mission and values.
It's vision is to be a progressive diverse community of transformed disciples actively serving & transforming the City of Adelaide.

Just a thought.

Badds

a Biblical thought...
Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him—to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. (Romans 16:25-27)

a Book thought...
The principle goal of education is to create men who are capable of doing new things, not simply of repeating what other generations have done - men who are creative, inventive and discoverers. (p97)
a Dave thought...
Yesterday I was fortunate to spend a few hours at the Pro-Am at Kingston Heath. As a golfing fan to see the amazing Tiger Woods up close was a dream come true, but it was spending some time with Aaron Baddeley that was most impressive. Aaron is a committed Christian and is more vocal than any other sportsman I know about his faith. At 28 years of age he still mentions how much God helps him on the world circuit as a professional golfer. As I have met Badds before I was able to chat with him for some time yesterday after his round. He grew up attending Careforce a Church of Christ in Mt. Evelyn, Melbourne and today goes to a local church where he now resides in Arizona with his wife. He also currently attends a weekly PGA bible study group which has over 50 professional golfers attending and leads it regularly.

In an interview featured in The Australian yesterday...

"Things aren't as important, little trivial things you used to worry about," Baddeley said.
"For me, being a Christian, it really gives me a small idea of how much God loves me.
"It doesn't matter what sort of day you had -- good or bad, on or off the course -- you come home and Jewels is so happy to see you.
"It's awesome. At the end of the day shooting 75 isn't that big a deal."
Even the nappy-changing seems to have struck a chord.
"I am getting pretty quick at that," the 28-year-old said. "Life is great. I have been very blessed -- great family, great wife and great daughter. She's a great little girl.

If you check out his web page http://www.badds.com/ he also has a whole section about faith, a bible reading plan and how to use SOAP as your personal devotions. It is great to see such an outstanding young man in the professional sporting scene. Play well Badds, I'm praying you will win the Masters this weekend!

Just a thought.

Bragging Gen Y's

a Biblical thought...
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. (Romans 14:13)

a Book thought...
The younger generations are often criticised for 'lack of respect' for elders. Perhaps it is not that they lack respect for them, but that, in this world of technological innovation, there is a tendency to look forward, not back - to look to the future not the past. (p92)
a Dave thought... from The Age
Generation Y and baby boomer travellers looking for a holiday "brag factor" are influencing a new shift towards weird and wonderful tourism experiences, a conference has heard.
Accommodation entrepreneur Grant Hunt told the Global Eco Conference at Alice Springs yesterday that business had to start treating tourism as a "fashion brand".
Mr Hunt, who is also a director of Tourism Australia, said travellers were increasingly looking for out-of-the-ordinary experiences they could brag their friends about, and many of these had an eco-theme.
"We're finding at the moment, more in the Gen Y set, it's very important," Mr Hunt later said.
"There are elements of travel snobbery in the baby boomer market as well.
"But people love to find new experiences and things that they think their friends haven't discovered and take it home and tell them all about it.
"So bragging rights is probably a bit of a derogatory term - it's actually more about sharing the message and passing the story."
And he said travellers were far more likely to listen to recommendations from their friends than advertising.
Mr Hunt said businesses had to start competing better for the discretionary dollar, and that meant competing with fashion and electronics.
"We've really got to get serious about travel," he said.
"Travel is the first to go in discretionary spend and the last to come back.
"We've actually got to elevate that to something that's more important to people fundamentally ... and if making it fashionable and giving it a brand or a fashion label is how we do it, I'm all for it."
He said the industry had to make interesting holidays as "cool" as owning a flat-screen TV.

Just a thought.

Salvo Students

a Biblical thought...
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. (Romans 12:6-8)

a Book thought...
Our tracking studies show that over the last decade children's TV time has decreased, but total 'screen' time (which includes all the electronic screens in their life) has increased. (p88)
a Dave thought... by Matt White - Mission Partner for ALOVE UK

If you are a young person connected to or part of The Salvation Army and you're starting university or even already part way through I would encourage you to read this guide. Ben Parker has written from both his own experiences and those of others he's met to give him a glimpse of what can be expected at university. He also asks questions that we hope both challenge and encourage you in your uni life.

Enjoy the read, I said that part of me felt jealous and that's true. Most of me, however, felt incredibly excited. Excited for a whole bunch of Salvo Students and the impact their lives could have on a whole bunch of universities all over the country.

To receive a copy of Salvo Students email alove@salvationarmy.org.uk with your name and address.

Just a thought.

five in five

a Biblical thought...
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (Romans 10:10)

a Book thought...
In our survey of 1000 Australian parents, the three biggest concerns of parents of Zeds were bullying, peer pressure and the negative influence of advertising and media. (p80)
a Dave thought...
As we have been appointed to serve as CO's at South Barwon in 2010 in Western Victoria it was great to hear DC's Majors Kelvin & Winsome Merrett pitch the vision for their division on the weekend. I thought it was worth sharing here so you can support and pray for all those involved...

1. A net growth rate of 5% in five years in worship attendance

2. A net growth rate of 5% in both Senior & Junior Soldiers in five years

3. 5 new Corps in 5 years

4. 5 Social service streams linked with working pathways to Corps in 5 years

5. 5 new chaplains working within established pathways to local Corps

Just a thought.

Spring Celebration

a Biblical thought...
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

a Book thought...
The Zeds are the most marketed-to children of all time and the biggest consumers of any generation of children. They have only known a wireless, hyperlinked, user-generated world where they are only ever a few clicks away from any piece of knowledge. The world is an open book to Gen Z. (p66)
a Dave thought...
For 19 years now the Western Victoria division gather the their annual Spring Celebration. The venue is the beautiful Halls Gap, a large marquee is erected and hundreds come to the weekend to hear God's word, chat with others or just to relax. Yesterday afternoon there was live music and coffee, with a 7pm rally featuring the very talented Lt Colonels Ian & Marilyn Hamilton (PIL) and Phil Laeger and his band - "League of Mercy." The evening concluded with a youth rally where Kylie and I were on a panel to answer questions from over 50 youth. Today we gather in the marquee for a 10am worship service as the children also meet to learn about God. It looks like another beautiful day, so I'm sure once again we will have a lot fun as we gather together.

Just a thought.

Technology hasn't made us hermits

a Biblical thought...
But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:22-23)

a Book thought...
The church generally does not get a great review from young people we research. Their perceptions are of a big, structured institution rather than a community of people with a passion and a purpose. (p42)

a Dave thought... from The Age
Contrary to popular belief, technology is not leading to social isolation and people who use the internet and mobile phones have larger and more diverse social networks, according to a new study. "All the evidence points in one direction," said Keith Hampton, lead author of the report released on Wednesday. "People's social worlds are enhanced by new communication technologies. "It is a mistake to believe that internet use and mobile phones plunge people into a spiral of isolation," said Hampton, an assistant professor of communication. The authors said key findings of the study - "Social Isolation and New Technology" - "challenge previous research and commonplace fears about the harmful social impact of new technology." "There is a tendency by critics to blame technology first when social change occurs," Hampton said.

"This is the first research that actually explores the connection between technology use and social isolation and we find the opposite. "It turns out that those who use the internet and mobile phones have notable social advantages," Hampton said. "People use the technology to stay in touch and share information in ways that keep them socially active and connected to their communities."

Just a thought.

S:10 Youth Nite

a Biblical thought...
Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. (Romans 4:20-21)

a Book thought...
Forty per cent of today's middle and senior business leaders will be of traditional retirement age within a decade. We are about to see a massive leadership transfer. (p37)
a Dave thought...
The Friday Youth Nite @ SURRENDER:10 on March 5 is shaping up to be a great celebration of diversity and a call to follow Jesus to the margins of society. So far the lineup includes Bart Campolo (Yep, Tony’s not so little boy), SURRENDER regulars, Vox Congo, Levi McGrath PLUS Sudanese film make and hip hop artist, Ezeldin Deng.
S:10 Youth nite is tailor made for youth groups and individuals aged from 15-21 but of course we’d love to see anyone who’s young@heart!
Just $10 at the door or you can book online here. Free if you’ve already registered for the rest of the SURRENDER:10 Conference.

Just a thought.

isalvos

a Biblical thought...
For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

a Book thought...
That which seems the height of absurdity in one generation often becomes the height of wisdom in another. (p34)

a Dave thought...
On Tuesday evening at 9pm history was made as the first on-line corps was opened @ www.isalvos.com. Envoy Grant Whitehead is the brains trust behind this innovative idea that has been setup to engage Salvos and others across the globe. isalvos runs a weekly service at Tuesday 9pm EST that involves worship and preaching. If you miss this time slot you can still view the service at a later time but you would miss out on the opportunity to interact with others via the live online chat. The sermon this week was from ACC 2004 when we had Dr Tony Campolo as a guest, and Phil Laeger lead us in worship. There is no doubt in these days that you need to be able to go to church online and for so many from invalids to single mums or those that are put off by the standard church environment, this is a fabulous way to engage with God and with others. I encourage you to check out www.isalvos.com where you can become a Facebook fan and also a member of the site so you can log in every week and chat with others. I'm sure William Booth would have been all over this as he did say 'If I thought I could win one more soul to the Lord by walking on my head and playing the tambourine with my toes, I'd learn how!'

Just a thought.

A Gambling Holiday

a Biblical thought...
I have had God's help to this very day, and so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. (Acts 26:22)

a Book thought...
Gen Y-ers are the most materially endowed generation in Australia's history. The have very unrealistic lifestyle expectations with many of them expecting to start their working lives in the manner in which they have seen their parents finish theirs. (p29)
a Dave thought...
It seems abrurd to me that we have a whole day dedicated to a horse race. Yesterday Australians bet $95.6m on the Melbourne Cup with all of us Melbournians having a day off work because of this. The Melbourne Cup began in 1861 and ever since 1877 has been a public holiday. With a lot of work being done by the government at the moment to try and curb problem gambling it certainly is interesting that we have a whole day devoted to this betting event. Gambling is a massive problem in Australia and being able to place bets from your lounge room on anything from footy to Autralian Idol as a society we need to be careful. There obviously isn't a public holiday based around binge drinkling, or another around smoking, maybe thats for a good reason.

Just a thought.

Picking Leaders

a Biblical thought...
But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way. All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. (Acts 21:5)



a Book thought...
According to a global survey the majority of workplace conflict (42 per cent) is caused by generational gaps. (p22)

a Dave thought... by John Denton
What do you look for when picking leaders?

Leaders who are friends or leaders who make friends? The easiest way to find leaders fast is to ask friends for help. This is also one of the easiest ways to get into more strange issues in ministry. Your friends are like you: they look like you, talk like you, have the same interests as you, and connect with others like yourself. If you want to have a youth ministry of “you,” choose leaders who are your friends. If you’d like to build a team that reaches others, look for leaders who make friends, even if they might not choose you as a close friend.

Leaders who are hip or leaders who make others feel hip?

This is another problem that’s common in youth ministry. Leadership is no place for a style contest—it seems tempting to have the fixed-gear riding, really tight pants wearing, techno-listening, youth ministry, but I promise there is more. Leaders are often chosen based on their personal appeal versus how they interact with others. Yes it’s important to have leaders who attract students, but at the same time, those leaders must be looking to build up the ego of the students. Having a bunch of super-hip leaders will only take you so far. Having leaders who know how to make students feel hip is crucial.

Leaders who know the bible or leaders who help teach and engage others in the bible?

Yes there is a difference. Sometimes the smartest leader from the local seminary or Bible College isn’t going to be the most effective leader. It’s key to look for leaders who not only know and understand the bible but have effective skills in communicating God’s word to others.
In building your leadership dream team it’s vital to not let your pride get in the way. When picking leaders think of the overall ministry and not yourself. Yes, it’s important to have a working relationship with leaders, but anything more and you might be missing the point.

Just a thought.

Renee

a Biblical thought...
When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve men in all. (Acts 19:6)

a Book thought...
Childhood is increasingly being cut short, while the traditional adult responsibilities typically emerging in the 20s and 30s are being delayed. Thirty is the new 21! (p2)

a Dave thought...
Last night at Box Hill it was great to be present at the Enrolment of Renee Chomel as a Senior Soldier. Cadet Fiona Kean conducted a great ceremony as we witnessed the swearing in of Renee but it was also challenging to once again read and consider our covenants. Renee gave a very honest and fascinating testimony as she shared her journey as a Pastor’s child being brought up in the Nazerene Church through to becoming a Salvo today. A big part of her introduction to the Salvos revolved around serving at Summer Camps in the US. She went on to share how when Cadet Sonia Jeffrey preached a month or so ago at Box Hill she was really challenged by the Holy Spirit. Sonia had suggested “that it is often the area in your life that you don’t want God to touch that you need to hand over completely to Him”. It was a significant time for many and one that God was a part of. We thank Him for Renee and the commitment she has made to live for Him through this movement.

Just a thought.

Pray the Bible

a Biblical thought...
Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (Acts 17:11)

a Book thought...
Serving energy builds as we see transformation in the lives of those we serve. (p126)

a Dave thought... http://www.matthewhenry.org/
The aim of the online publication of this “old-made-new” monograph is to assist and encourage modern Christians in both public and private prayer. Surely we all recognize that the Church of our day, at least in the West, is weak in the way of prayer. Few of us, perhaps, understand what prayer really is. We do not pray often. We do not pray with scriptural proportion, nor does our prayer much reflect the language and thought of the Bible. We do not pray fervently. Although we claim otherwise, maybe we really do not believe in prayer!

For those who are called upon to lead the Church in public prayer, or who simply desire to be more faithful and competent in their own private petitions, a scriptural manner of praying provides the order, proportion, and variety which should characterize all our prayers. We have aimed to provide users with a number of helps to assist in achieving this end. The core of the website is the entire text of Matthew Henry’s A Method for Prayer. Reading and re-reading through it will train the Christian in the use of biblical truth and language in prayer.

Just a thought.