Whether one continues to serve God in the Army or has moved on, I believe it is good for all to continue in prayer for the work that God is doing through it's ministries. Salvation Army leadership is being challenged in new ways every day. Society is changing, indeed has been changing for a long time. Today's society is not as sympathetic as it once was. Politicians seem to be restricting those freedoms which enable us to reach out with the Gospel message, as never before.
I am concerned for Army leadership. There's is not an easy task, this process of sorting it all out. They need strength and wisdom in greater measure. I believe all of us should pray for them every day.
Among the fellowship of 'Formers', there are those who have issues with the Army or, at least with some of it's leadership. This is true and, no doubt, will remain true in the future. Some have been hurt deeply. Yet, can we still see our way clear to pray, even for the very leadership that you believe has wronged you?
How wonderful it would be if we all could just separate the individual from the organization in a way that allows us to continue our support for the Army work (if only in spirit), recognizing that some may have hurt others, but the ministry moves on and God still blesses it.
Salvation Army leaders, from the new Lieutenant to the General, are in need of OUR prayers! We can pray that God will send His Spirit in a new, fresh and powerful way. We can pray that, as Army leaders make decisions, they seek His face in all decisions that are made, especially the tough ones....the ones that concern personnel and families.
Then, we can also pray that God will give us forgiving spirit that will enable us to be just what He wants us to be....today! As we face our new realities, God still wants to draw up alongside, our paraclete as it is said in the Greek. God can still do wonders with us if we can only lay aside any resentments we may have and free ourselves from their destructive force.
When this happens, we can pray more powerfully than ever before!
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
'New Beginning' by Pastor Tedd Galloway
A new beginning, those words sound wonderful and full of promise. As a follower of Jesus Christ my heart is filled with hope and peace when I think of those two simple words, New Beginning. Each day is fresh and clean, full of beauty and promise. I will use the day for the benefit of people and God's Kingdom or I will squander the 24 hours that I can never retrieve.
Beginning, to start over. What a great thought. Each day I can start over. I can forget about yesterday's challenges, struggles, failures and success. Oh, it is nice to savor the sweet smell of yesterday's flowers, but I must press on to enjoy new blossoms and fragrances. The disappointments of yesterday, the failures in thought or actions, those I need to leave behind or they have a tendency to drag me down. That is just the person I am.
The Apostle Paul made two points, among hundreds, that I want to remember this day. The first being his thought to the Corinthian Church that followers of Christ are New Creations, the old has past and the new IS. The second point being; I must leave what is in the past and press on each day for the ultimate goal, which is. A glorified human in the presence of Him, who always was and will be. May it be so.
Tedd Galloway is the pastor of West Adrian Community Church and the author of, A Mother's Heart Moved the Hand of God. You can find him on Facebook and Twitter.
Pastor Tedd Galloway is a Former Officer from the Central Territory USA
You may read his blog at: http://aservantsheartministry.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 16, 2013
'Humility' by Dr. John Sullivan
reprinted from the FSAOF International blog
Monday, September 16, 2013
He looked handsome; he looked smart
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HUMILITY
“Joseph was Jacob’s favourite son, of all the family he was the special one: so Jacob bought his son a multi-coloured coat to wear. The coat was elegant; the cut was fine; the tasteful style was the ultimate in good design, such a dazzling coat of many colours. Joseph’s brothers weren’t too pleased with what they saw . . . and when Joseph graced the scene his brothers turned a shade of green, his astounding clothing took the biscuit, quite the smoothest person in the district. "He looked handsome; he looked smart; he was a walking work of art.” Tim Rice.
Joseph flaunted his coat as he wore it, and didn’t hesitate to assume the role of lordship, and his brothers smarted under his presumption. He was superior to them, smarter than they were, more attractive to people than they were, more richly blessed in every way, destined for greater things. He inherited his father’s intelligence, quick-wittedness and shrewdness, and his mother’s good looks and charm, and when you get a combination of intelligence, good looks and charm, it’s almost irresistible.
Joseph came into the world inheriting both the strength and weakness of his father and mother, and these things he always had to deal with, and so do we. No one comes into the world with a completely clean slate. We are not absolutely free to be ourselves. We may not be prepared to agree with William Wordsworth that we come “trailing clouds of glory” but we must admit that we all come trailing the characteristics and traits of our fathers and mothers, good and bad.
Then see how evil creeps into the best of things and the most sacred places. This is a constant theme in every pulpit where the gospel is preached. We think of the family circle, or the church community as the one place where ties are secure, where loyalties are absolutely safe, a protection from all the evils of the world outside, yet it is into these sacred circles that evil sometimes creeps by way of disloyalty, irresponsibility, jealousy, and almost before we know it, the circle disintegrates before our eyes. After all, it was perfectly natural for Joseph to lose his head as a result of all the attention, and just as natural for the brothers to be jealous of him.
And it’s so easy for us to go into the secret places of our lives, and say it’s perfectly natural for people to want to be happy, to be successful, even though they may have to ruin somebody else in the achievement of it. We ask ourselves, what do we need to do to achieve our goals? If one is an officer, what does it take to leap from being a Major to becoming a Lieutenant Colonel, from being a field officer to being a DC? What does one have to be, or do, or who does one have to know? Doesn’t everyone want to be a Joseph?
The truth is there will always be only a small group of people who will wear the coat of many colours, or the velvet epaulets with silver or gold.
They will always be favoured above the rest of the community. What matters it the way they wear it. If you happen to be the one in your circle who is wearing it, whatever you do, wear it quietly and gratefully. You are what you are, not because of anything you’ve done, but because of what have been given to you.
If only you can assume the coat that you didn’t choose, but that has been given to you and wear it humbly, you may wear it to good advantage. If you don’t, the brothers will be jealous and the sisters too, and the tension will increase, and it is almost certain that they will be resentful, or dismissive and fail to show respect.
Dr. John Sullivan
Former Officer
Canada
Monday, September 16, 2013
He looked handsome; he looked smart
Listen to this article. Powered by Odiogo.com
HUMILITY
“Joseph was Jacob’s favourite son, of all the family he was the special one: so Jacob bought his son a multi-coloured coat to wear. The coat was elegant; the cut was fine; the tasteful style was the ultimate in good design, such a dazzling coat of many colours. Joseph’s brothers weren’t too pleased with what they saw . . . and when Joseph graced the scene his brothers turned a shade of green, his astounding clothing took the biscuit, quite the smoothest person in the district. "He looked handsome; he looked smart; he was a walking work of art.” Tim Rice.
Joseph flaunted his coat as he wore it, and didn’t hesitate to assume the role of lordship, and his brothers smarted under his presumption. He was superior to them, smarter than they were, more attractive to people than they were, more richly blessed in every way, destined for greater things. He inherited his father’s intelligence, quick-wittedness and shrewdness, and his mother’s good looks and charm, and when you get a combination of intelligence, good looks and charm, it’s almost irresistible.
Joseph came into the world inheriting both the strength and weakness of his father and mother, and these things he always had to deal with, and so do we. No one comes into the world with a completely clean slate. We are not absolutely free to be ourselves. We may not be prepared to agree with William Wordsworth that we come “trailing clouds of glory” but we must admit that we all come trailing the characteristics and traits of our fathers and mothers, good and bad.
Then see how evil creeps into the best of things and the most sacred places. This is a constant theme in every pulpit where the gospel is preached. We think of the family circle, or the church community as the one place where ties are secure, where loyalties are absolutely safe, a protection from all the evils of the world outside, yet it is into these sacred circles that evil sometimes creeps by way of disloyalty, irresponsibility, jealousy, and almost before we know it, the circle disintegrates before our eyes. After all, it was perfectly natural for Joseph to lose his head as a result of all the attention, and just as natural for the brothers to be jealous of him.
And it’s so easy for us to go into the secret places of our lives, and say it’s perfectly natural for people to want to be happy, to be successful, even though they may have to ruin somebody else in the achievement of it. We ask ourselves, what do we need to do to achieve our goals? If one is an officer, what does it take to leap from being a Major to becoming a Lieutenant Colonel, from being a field officer to being a DC? What does one have to be, or do, or who does one have to know? Doesn’t everyone want to be a Joseph?
The truth is there will always be only a small group of people who will wear the coat of many colours, or the velvet epaulets with silver or gold.
They will always be favoured above the rest of the community. What matters it the way they wear it. If you happen to be the one in your circle who is wearing it, whatever you do, wear it quietly and gratefully. You are what you are, not because of anything you’ve done, but because of what have been given to you.
If only you can assume the coat that you didn’t choose, but that has been given to you and wear it humbly, you may wear it to good advantage. If you don’t, the brothers will be jealous and the sisters too, and the tension will increase, and it is almost certain that they will be resentful, or dismissive and fail to show respect.
Dr. John Sullivan
Former Officer
Canada
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Healing and Restoration!
I believe there is great value in bringing encouragement to former officers of The Salvation Army. Many are facing significant struggles in their lives. Giving them a Fellowship to identify with can be useful.
'Healing and Restoration' is the slogan we use. It is not just a handy little moniker on a flag to wave, but a real mission! To stand idly by, while many of them leave the Army for good, and make no effort is, to me, shameful! What a wonderful resource they can be if we win them back.
Now, of course, many Former's have no interest in repatriation. That's just the way it is. They often resist any overtures made toward them. Many are angry, hurt or disappointed. Some things we cannot do anything about! Still others cannot return due to the circumstances under which they left. However, many are receptive to a friendly contact, an encouraging word or a listening ear. If YOU know who they are, why not 'steer' them our way?
Now, I recognize many Salvation Army leaders are very leery of any group of Former's who organize. Frankly, I can understand this. Leadership has had many unpleasant experiences with Former's who have been less than supportive with their public utterances.
Yet, there must be room for those who continue their support for the Army and it's mission.... those who, if given the chance, might well make a God honoring contribution to the cause.
There must be room for a ministry that brings healing to those who are deeply hurting whether they are sympathetic to the Army or not. There should be a serious, extended effort to bring many back into the family, whether it be as Officers or Soldiers, even if we are uncomfortable with the effort! I believe the FSAOF can be that ministry!
Dear Lord, we spend countless time and effort reaching out to millions of people we do not know at all, while at the same time relegating to the 'scrap heap' those we have known for years.
God help us to do better!
'Healing and Restoration' is the slogan we use. It is not just a handy little moniker on a flag to wave, but a real mission! To stand idly by, while many of them leave the Army for good, and make no effort is, to me, shameful! What a wonderful resource they can be if we win them back.
Now, of course, many Former's have no interest in repatriation. That's just the way it is. They often resist any overtures made toward them. Many are angry, hurt or disappointed. Some things we cannot do anything about! Still others cannot return due to the circumstances under which they left. However, many are receptive to a friendly contact, an encouraging word or a listening ear. If YOU know who they are, why not 'steer' them our way?
Now, I recognize many Salvation Army leaders are very leery of any group of Former's who organize. Frankly, I can understand this. Leadership has had many unpleasant experiences with Former's who have been less than supportive with their public utterances.
Yet, there must be room for those who continue their support for the Army and it's mission.... those who, if given the chance, might well make a God honoring contribution to the cause.
There must be room for a ministry that brings healing to those who are deeply hurting whether they are sympathetic to the Army or not. There should be a serious, extended effort to bring many back into the family, whether it be as Officers or Soldiers, even if we are uncomfortable with the effort! I believe the FSAOF can be that ministry!
Dear Lord, we spend countless time and effort reaching out to millions of people we do not know at all, while at the same time relegating to the 'scrap heap' those we have known for years.
God help us to do better!
A Man for the People...Andrew S. Miller, Sr.
When you come across a Salvation Army leader who has a heart for the people, that leader stands out and no one 'stood out' more than Commissioner Andy Miller. He had time for anyone. He was sensitive to their needs and had an uncanny ability to 'sere through' to the truth! It would seem that nothing escaped him.
What impressed me most was that if you needed to talk with him, he always had time. He would make time! It did not matter who you were or what rank you were, he found the time. That is quite a statement to make about someone as busy as he always was.
When I was a young officer, I was going through quite a struggle. I needed to talk with someone and I did not feel I could share with the counselors in my Territory. I was in the Central Territory USA. I called Southern Territorial Headquarters and asked to speak with Commissioner Miller, the Territorial Commander. I knew that he was just the man I needed to share with. Now, Lieutenants don't often call Commissioners directly, but his secretary put me right through to him. I asked if I could drive to Atlanta and talk with him the next day. He said to me, "If you can get here tomorrow by noon, we'll go out to lunch and talk." I made the 12 hour drive arriving just in time. We had lunch and I was the better for it!
His respect for others also extended to Former Officers. He may have had issues with you (or you with him), but he always treated you with respect!
That is one of the great attributes of true leaders! They treat you with respect. We need to see more of that. We also, in my view, need to show more respect toward them. Respect is the one common denominator possessed by true leaders. I am not talking about those who simply have ascended to high position, rather I am referring to leaders in authority, who truly care about their people and will always go the extra mile to support them, even under the most difficult of circumstances. Oh, for leaders that will take time for their people! Perhaps we could turn around the high attrition rate we see in the Army!
It is rare that you cross their path. They are few and far between. Andy Miller was, however, one of them! One of the great ones!
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Rescue the Perishing?
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
"Struggling to Find One's Place" One former's testimony
After leaving my service in TSA I struggled to find my place in the world but always felt a void that could not seem to be filled. It took its toll on me and I surrendered to the world of sin. For years I lived doing anything and everything I wanted regardless of the negative outcome to my physical and mental well being. I had no support to turn to but always felt God was somehow still watching over me.
After many years I began a long slow struggle to climb back up the mountainside and regain my walk with Christ. Though I have come to a point where I have a relationship once again with Christ, I can not seem to find a place to worship that feels right for me. So the journey continues, the struggle continues to find that place of worship.
Through all of this I have always felt I was to be a pastor but TSA is still in my blood but not an option as a place to worship and serve. Feeling lost, feeling lonely I struggle to find my place in God's plan for my life. My one shining light is I know God has never given up on me for I am still filled with breath, with life, with hope that my foot steps are measured by my God and each step is placed where He desires. I still struggle, but I draw closer to my Lord with each step I take.
Lloyd Miller
Editors Note: Thank you, Lloyd for sharing, with all of us, your struggles. God IS present and will bring healing!
After many years I began a long slow struggle to climb back up the mountainside and regain my walk with Christ. Though I have come to a point where I have a relationship once again with Christ, I can not seem to find a place to worship that feels right for me. So the journey continues, the struggle continues to find that place of worship.
Through all of this I have always felt I was to be a pastor but TSA is still in my blood but not an option as a place to worship and serve. Feeling lost, feeling lonely I struggle to find my place in God's plan for my life. My one shining light is I know God has never given up on me for I am still filled with breath, with life, with hope that my foot steps are measured by my God and each step is placed where He desires. I still struggle, but I draw closer to my Lord with each step I take.
Lloyd Miller
Editors Note: Thank you, Lloyd for sharing, with all of us, your struggles. God IS present and will bring healing!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Blog Thoughts
The internet, and FB in particular, is an amazing thing. The FSAOF East Blog has had 182 visitors so far today. The most frequently read article is "For God's Sake, Don't Leave". This is the most active day since I launched the blog, August 29 of this year...less than two weeks ago.
Since Aug 29th the blog has been visited 934 times. Since the counter was embedded on the blog page Sept 6th, we have had 316 visits.
Only just learning how to analyze all of this. No way to tell how many visitors like or dislike what they are finding. However, several confidential prayer requests have come to my email. Few (1) Comments left following the articles. Note: One can comment anonymously. I do hear from visitors by email and Facebook messages.
Whatever the impact, I pray over it each day. There is a world of 'Formers' out there, many of whom are doing just fine. Others, not so much! God bless each of them. What a huge resource for God and the Army!
Prayer Requests
We heard from a 'Former' today who is having a very difficult time and has asked for prayer. Will you join me tonight in prayer for these folks. Names we keep confidential as you will understand.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Recovery for the Broken Heart!
"And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." Romans :3-5
While reading this verse of Scripture, I immediately began to think of my post Officership responsibility to persevere, even under the most difficult circumstances. When first resigning my Officership, there was a very real sense of failure that overwhelmed me. Even though my wife and I had left in good standing, I could not help but think I had fallen short of my commitment to see my ministry through to retirement. We were just 3 years from our retirement date but only had thirteen years of officer service, so we could not be considered for early retirement. It was necessary for me to care for my wife, who had suffered several strokes, full time so....the decision to leave was made.
The first year was very difficult and I was experiencing many, varied emotions. The devil visited me in a powerful way in an attempt to foster anger and resentment over our circumstances. It seemed as if we had been abandon by the very family we committed our lives to! The financial struggle that followed resignation was distressing. Now, I must point out that the Army was very generous by allowing us a severance package equal to what we would have received had we been granted early retirement, so I have no complaints about that at all. It was sufficient to get us through the first year. Even so, it was a 'no frills' existence. Our inability to get health care for my wife was most discouraging and frustrating.
Well, enough about me. The fact is our experience was not unlike the experience of many former officers.
Rejoicing in the Midst of Troubled Times
After things settled down, I slowly began to realize that my first responsibility in life was to safeguard my relationship with Jesus Christ! Nothing else would fall in line.... unless I maintained the Christian standard I was called upon to live out. I had to learn that, while times were tough, I must rejoice exceedingly in my circumstances! As our Scripture says, "but we also exult in our tribulations"! It promises that such a response will enable us to persevere....even in the most difficult times!
Increased Character, and a Hope that Will Not Disappoint
By rejoicing while, at the same time, navigating difficult waters, our character will be strengthened and our hope will be made sure, a hope that will not disappoint! How can this be, you may ask? "...because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."
You can and will make it through this new challenge. By maintaining a joyful heart, even when in the midst of despair, and continuing to serve your God who will enable you to maintain the standard, YOU WILL gain the victory! There is victory for the brokenhearted!
May God Bless you!
To read the full blog go to: www.fsaofeastusa.blogspot.com
Reader Comment off of Facebook
Brother Gary D Laws you are a blessing! Thank you so much for the words of wisdom you share in the blog above. Took me 8 years away from Officership to understand many things I didn't know about my Savior before I could come back and continue in the calling He had for my life. We need support from each other and most importantly to stay close to Jesus! This is His battle! We must seek his face to move forward in His strength not ours! Amen! Peace to you and yours!
Name withheld by FSAOF editor for privacy.
(Editors Note: Sharing on YOUR Facebook page helps get the message to just those who need to hear it! Thank you)
Name withheld by FSAOF editor for privacy.
(Editors Note: Sharing on YOUR Facebook page helps get the message to just those who need to hear it! Thank you)
For God's Sake, Don't Leave!
While this blog is devoted to being of service to former officers, many active officers read it also. If you are an active, then these thoughts are for you! Our message, as a community of former officers, is to persevere at all costs!
God has placed you in the Army for a reason, and that reason, at it's most fundamental level, is the salvation of souls and the elimination of human need. God needs you and the people need you!
If you are considering resignation, don't make this decision rashly. Take some time to seek out officer or clergy friends and share your burden with them. If there are leaders that you look up to and trust, sit with them and pour your heart out. Take some furlough time and get away for a time in a quiet place where you can reflect and seek out the guidance of God Almighty....it is He that has called you! Pray, Pray, Pray...right through to victory!
I can tell you that the experience of most former officers is not one you will want to share. The grass is not greener.....! Resignation might bring some small relief, but only for a short time. Soon other pressures will set in and the experience of many is that these pressures are almost always worse than what you are going through now!
I pray for each of you often, even if we have never met or know each others name. You can see the difficult times through and, if you do, you will be even better equipped for His service. May God Bless you!
Gary D. Laws
A reluctant 'Former' since 2008!
To read the full blog go to: www.fsaofeastusa.blogspot.com
If you would like us to keep you in prayer send your CONFIDENTIAL prayer request to: lawsgaryla@aol.com. Your request will be kept private.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Compassion Fatigue?
When Liz Garrison first started in frontline ministry, she found a day like this exciting. She loved being able to minister to others and work toward social change. “Although my colleagues at the centre shared my passion for serving, they no longer had the energy or enthusiasm they once did for ministry,” reflects Garrison, territorial social services consultant. “It was an awakening experience for me to see the toll it had taken on them.”
What Garrison first witnessed in her colleagues, and later in herself, was “compassion fatigue”—unhealthy behaviours and emotions resulting from helping or wanting to help traumatized or suffering people. Compassion fatigue leads to a reduced capacity to express empathy and is often experienced by individuals offering care continually through social services or in one-off traumatic situations.
“My colleagues and I had to learn to be intentional about how we gave to others in order to sustain ourselves over the long-term,” Garrison says.
Understanding the Signs
As a result of her experience, Garrison decided to educate herself on compassion fatigue and now delivers workshops on the topic. “Compassion fatigue can be a natural response to care-giving,” she says. “It’s not the abnormal caregiver that gets fatigued; it’s the abnormal caregiver that doesn’t.”
Captain Ginny Kristensen, corps officer, Ottawa’s Gladstone Community Church, and chaplain, Ottawa’s correctional and justice services, has also undertaken training. “People come to work in the caring profession because they want to help people,” she says. “But when you are repeatedly hearing stories of trauma, you start to carry other people’s burdens that you can’t do anything about.”
Signs of compassion fatigue include exhaustion, headaches or addictions; a loss of ability to listen, be creative or empathize; or feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, guilt or cynicism.
The Call to Serve
“Faith needs to be put into action,” Garrison says. “That’s an important part of who we are as Christians—serving each other and the world as witnesses of God’s love.”
Because of this Christian call, Garrison warns that compassion fatigue can affect people in caring roles outside of the social services realm.
That means people who are caregivers for other family members, individuals ministering in their community or congregation, corps officers and people who are regularly reading about poverty—“anyone operating out of a compassionate heart, giving of themselves emotionally and listening to people’s stories,” says Garrison—could experience compassion fatigue.
Captain Kristensen has seen her corps volunteers become emotionally stressed and has also felt it personally in her corps work.
“Corps officers have lots of demands on our time,” she says. “We need to take at least one day off every week to keep our own prayer life active and vibrant, and our relationship with God fresh. If we don’t do this, we get spiritually and physically fatigued.
“We tend to get so involved in helping others that we forget about ourselves,” Captain Kristensen continues. “And if we forget about ourselves, we cannot effectively help others. We have to realize that we can’t do everything and we don’t have to.”
“While we need to love our neighbour,” adds Garrison, “it’s important to follow Jesus’ example: he rested, spent time away from the crowds and took time to celebrate.
“In the end, I’m involved in ministry because I believe that God works in the world. And so, to reduce the impact of compassion fatigue in my life, I need to remember that God works in many ways, not just through me and what I do.”
(Reprinted from: Salvationist.ca December 2, 2011)
Friday, September 6, 2013
From the Wilderness to the Miraculous!
Note to Readers: I recognize that many Formers have moved on with their lives and are doing just fine. However, this article is for those who may still have issues to deal with. Blessings!
For many former Salvation Army officers there is something of a wilderness experience that follows resignation or termination. Things change and, often, they change dramatically. "What will I do?", "Where will I go?" are questions that are immediately asked by the newly separated servant. Some discover that few of their former colleagues are sympathetic to their situation. It may be that you feel leadership has abandon you and there are precious few resources available to give you a new direction.
Often times, former officers harbor ill feelings toward the Army as they consider the circumstances surrounding their separation. They may even feel that God has abandon them! Yes, it can be a wilderness experience that wreaks havoc with our emotions, our families, and even our spiritual lives.
So what is one to do? Is it unrealistic to expect a miracle in such circumstances? Can one be 'saved' from the predicament one finds themselves in? Yes!....I think so! It is possible to move from the wilderness to the miraculous.
First, we must develop the capacity to differentiate between the real and the perceived! We may 'feel' that we have been abandoned by others and perhaps that is your experience. However, there are many wonderful people in the officer ranks who sympathize with the former officer. You may have to search a bit, but rest assured they are there, and they want to help. Even in the Army's hierarchy there are many leaders who really do care for you. It is important that you not become disillusioned by the few who may be unkind to you. One must resist, at all costs, the desire to lash out at those who may have wronged you! Remember, the devil specializes in making you angry which, in turn, will drive you further into the wilderness!
Second, concentrate on recovering from your circumstances! There is life beyond Salvation Army officership. It may not be the life you had hoped for, but our God WILL lead you as you begin to discover other ways to be used of Him!
Third, you have a choice to make. You can choose to go it alone, letting ill will drive the direction you go, or you can begin the healing process...and that process begins with forgiveness. If you have acted inappropriately in your ministry years, then seek God's forgiveness for this and take responsibility for your actions. If other's have hurt you and treated you unfairly, then forgiving them will be necessary before you can move on. Easily said, I know but, still, very necessary.
Fourth, know that it is possible to move from the wilderness to the miraculous! This possibility exists within the domain of God Himself. God can heal, He can restore, God can lead you to a new, productive and meaningful life....and He will! Laying prostrate with all humility and brokenness before His throne and laying aside everything that keeps victory out of reach, is the proper posture for one to take on when seeking God's help and direction.
Our God is a God of Miracles. He will work one for you, even when all seems lost! May God bless you!
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Modern Day Lepers
Leprosy is far more than a physical disease. It became virtually synonymous with sin. While cancer is associated with pain and suffering often relieved only with strong medication, leprosy was a disease without normal pain reaction. Thus, the pain experienced by lepers was emotional and psychological. Yet, though the leper felt no physical pain, the emotional hurt felt by lepers in Christ's time was immense. Separation from family, friends, and society was an intense pain. Rejection, regardless of the rationale, leads to emotional pain that is often far more distressing than physical pain.
While leprosy has become less visible in today's world (there are still some in developing countries), some segments of society are looked at in much the same way as were the lepers. The mentally ill, the poor, are two examples. Even in the church there are those who experience the rejection felt by lepers, especially the unrepentant sinner.
Another group often rejected by church leadership and the laity are former Pastor's. Some of this rejection is understandable, especially in the case of former Pastors who have fallen back into a sinful lifestyle and seem unrepentant! However, the line is not drawn there. It would seem that anyone who falls into the category of a former Pastor is looked down upon and experiences varied levels of rejection...even if their separation from ministry was outside of their control and they were in good standing! People don't know quite what to think of them (or what to do with them). O, many are friendly to them. They may smile and shake their hands when they must. Perhaps they share in a little conversation even. But make no mistake about it, many former clergy are not looked upon with any significant degree of acceptance. In a sense, they have become 'Modern Day Lepers'!
To be fair, many ex-clergy have brought this on themselves, for sure. Yet, many have not! Now, people are human! We must accept this. Those who have a difficult time fully integrating former clergy into their fellowship are still good people, most of them! Some do harbor strong negative feelings toward those who once served in the ministry, for no other reason than they are simply separated from full time service. They just cannot deal with it. That is unfortunate (and very unkind)!
Now, think about these things for a moment! What can you do to change some of these realities? Pray about these things for a moment! Has God given you a heart for all who approach your fellowship? OK, where do you fit into this discussion? Are you one, when confronted by a leper, shouts, "Unclean!, Unclean" then moves to the other side of the street? Or, do you put your arms around them letting them know they are still part of the family?
While leprosy has become less visible in today's world (there are still some in developing countries), some segments of society are looked at in much the same way as were the lepers. The mentally ill, the poor, are two examples. Even in the church there are those who experience the rejection felt by lepers, especially the unrepentant sinner.
Another group often rejected by church leadership and the laity are former Pastor's. Some of this rejection is understandable, especially in the case of former Pastors who have fallen back into a sinful lifestyle and seem unrepentant! However, the line is not drawn there. It would seem that anyone who falls into the category of a former Pastor is looked down upon and experiences varied levels of rejection...even if their separation from ministry was outside of their control and they were in good standing! People don't know quite what to think of them (or what to do with them). O, many are friendly to them. They may smile and shake their hands when they must. Perhaps they share in a little conversation even. But make no mistake about it, many former clergy are not looked upon with any significant degree of acceptance. In a sense, they have become 'Modern Day Lepers'!
To be fair, many ex-clergy have brought this on themselves, for sure. Yet, many have not! Now, people are human! We must accept this. Those who have a difficult time fully integrating former clergy into their fellowship are still good people, most of them! Some do harbor strong negative feelings toward those who once served in the ministry, for no other reason than they are simply separated from full time service. They just cannot deal with it. That is unfortunate (and very unkind)!
Now, think about these things for a moment! What can you do to change some of these realities? Pray about these things for a moment! Has God given you a heart for all who approach your fellowship? OK, where do you fit into this discussion? Are you one, when confronted by a leper, shouts, "Unclean!, Unclean" then moves to the other side of the street? Or, do you put your arms around them letting them know they are still part of the family?
Commissioner Helen Clifton - "Victory for Me" Thoughts on Holiness
(reprinted from the International FSAOF blog)
Monday, July 29, 2013 Victory for me, victory for me. ‘The privilege of all believers’ ‘We believe it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified and that their whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ’ (the Army’s Tenth Doctrine). Note some working definitions of ‘sanctified’: - given to God absolutely and filled with his Spirit; - holy and belonging to God; - a life of victory over sin; - a life free to live for God and not enslaved by sin.
Take the image of a rock in a stormy sea. The saved person has clung on to the rock or is sitting on its edge, half in and half out of the water. The sanctified person is firmly established on the rock and will not be dislodged. Let me pinpoint three words from the Tenth Doctrine: ‘privilege’, ‘all’, and ‘wholly’. Privilege A privileged person is favoured, advantaged, honoured in some unusual way. A privilege is something to be enjoyed, and that is why our former Song Book rightly had a section entitled ‘Holiness Enjoyed’ (now replaced by one headed ‘Praise and Thanksgiving’ for reasons not immediately clear).
Recently I heard a TV presenter talking about a special appeal for charitable funds. She said, ‘The only ingredient we haven’t got yet is fun!’ Now sometimes our view of the holy life is like that. The Bible passage this morning from 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-24 was about being joyful and giving thanks. All In secular society privileges are for the few. In the holy life, and in the great possibility of belonging to God, all are invited and counted precious. This means that holiness can be lived out in the everyday life and in a secular setting, not only in a convent or monastery. It is not only for the General or the Archbishop or the Pope, but for the corps officer and the Home League Tea Server too. It is for the nine-year-old and the ninety-year-old. It is for the highly educated and also for the educationally challenged person with learning difficulties. It is for the literate and the illiterate. Wholly Time and again in speaking or reading of the holy life we come across absolutist words and phrases, like ‘altogether’, ‘entirely’, totally’, ‘thoroughly’, ‘completely’, ‘every inch’, ‘unequivocally’, ‘undividedly’.
The same tone comes through the words of the holiness songs in our Song Book. They deserve to be read and re-read as the testimonies of the writers. We cannot truly worship and honour Jesus Christ if it is a matter of giving half to him and holding back the rest for ourselves. We must recognise, and resist by grace, the pull of the world which tells us to safeguard our status, hold on to our power, and protect our own interests. Instead we go all out for Christ, for victorious living. I recall the testimony of an aircraft pilot who said, ‘It is too dangerous to fly low, hedge-hopping, for eventually you will crash. Fly higher, in free air, and if ever you do dip down, Christ will at once lift you up again.’
I exhort all here tonight, officers and soldiers alike, to give again your lives entirely and without reserve to Christ, asking him for complete victory over the things that would drag you down and despoil your relationship with him. We will sing Song 543 with its repeated ‘Victory for me’. See especially verse 2 where the sacred matters spoken of tonight are expressed: Here, Lord, I yield thee the whole of my heart, Victory for me, victory for me; From all that hinders at last I will part, Victory for me, victory for me. Called to thy service, I gladly obey, Humbly my all at thy feet now I lay, Trusting and fighting till life’s latest day; Victory for me, victory for me. A prayer like this, made sincerely from the heart, cannot leave you unchanged, for all the blessings described in verses 3 and 4 (‘cleansed’, ‘held’, ‘filled’, etc.) belong to you.
Monday, July 29, 2013 Victory for me, victory for me. ‘The privilege of all believers’ ‘We believe it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified and that their whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ’ (the Army’s Tenth Doctrine). Note some working definitions of ‘sanctified’: - given to God absolutely and filled with his Spirit; - holy and belonging to God; - a life of victory over sin; - a life free to live for God and not enslaved by sin.
Take the image of a rock in a stormy sea. The saved person has clung on to the rock or is sitting on its edge, half in and half out of the water. The sanctified person is firmly established on the rock and will not be dislodged. Let me pinpoint three words from the Tenth Doctrine: ‘privilege’, ‘all’, and ‘wholly’. Privilege A privileged person is favoured, advantaged, honoured in some unusual way. A privilege is something to be enjoyed, and that is why our former Song Book rightly had a section entitled ‘Holiness Enjoyed’ (now replaced by one headed ‘Praise and Thanksgiving’ for reasons not immediately clear).
Recently I heard a TV presenter talking about a special appeal for charitable funds. She said, ‘The only ingredient we haven’t got yet is fun!’ Now sometimes our view of the holy life is like that. The Bible passage this morning from 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-24 was about being joyful and giving thanks. All In secular society privileges are for the few. In the holy life, and in the great possibility of belonging to God, all are invited and counted precious. This means that holiness can be lived out in the everyday life and in a secular setting, not only in a convent or monastery. It is not only for the General or the Archbishop or the Pope, but for the corps officer and the Home League Tea Server too. It is for the nine-year-old and the ninety-year-old. It is for the highly educated and also for the educationally challenged person with learning difficulties. It is for the literate and the illiterate. Wholly Time and again in speaking or reading of the holy life we come across absolutist words and phrases, like ‘altogether’, ‘entirely’, totally’, ‘thoroughly’, ‘completely’, ‘every inch’, ‘unequivocally’, ‘undividedly’.
The same tone comes through the words of the holiness songs in our Song Book. They deserve to be read and re-read as the testimonies of the writers. We cannot truly worship and honour Jesus Christ if it is a matter of giving half to him and holding back the rest for ourselves. We must recognise, and resist by grace, the pull of the world which tells us to safeguard our status, hold on to our power, and protect our own interests. Instead we go all out for Christ, for victorious living. I recall the testimony of an aircraft pilot who said, ‘It is too dangerous to fly low, hedge-hopping, for eventually you will crash. Fly higher, in free air, and if ever you do dip down, Christ will at once lift you up again.’
I exhort all here tonight, officers and soldiers alike, to give again your lives entirely and without reserve to Christ, asking him for complete victory over the things that would drag you down and despoil your relationship with him. We will sing Song 543 with its repeated ‘Victory for me’. See especially verse 2 where the sacred matters spoken of tonight are expressed: Here, Lord, I yield thee the whole of my heart, Victory for me, victory for me; From all that hinders at last I will part, Victory for me, victory for me. Called to thy service, I gladly obey, Humbly my all at thy feet now I lay, Trusting and fighting till life’s latest day; Victory for me, victory for me. A prayer like this, made sincerely from the heart, cannot leave you unchanged, for all the blessings described in verses 3 and 4 (‘cleansed’, ‘held’, ‘filled’, etc.) belong to you.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
A Matter of Semantics?
Someone I ran in to recently expressed surprise that I was no longer a Salvation Army Officer. They asked, "When did you leave 'the work' ?" My response was simple..."I am no longer an officer, but I have never left the work !" So often people fail to understand that it is possible to leave ordination and commision behind, and yet still be very much 'in the work'. I still preach when I am invited, I still talk with others about the Lord, I still minister in a variety of different ways, I remain a Salvationist....just not with the official sanction that Officership brings.
As often as God brings my fellow 'formers' to mind, I pray for them: some by name and for others in general. I know something of the difficulty transitioning brings. I pray first that they may guard their salvation carefully. I pray that God will keep them in some form of Army service. I ask God to bless those who may have moved on to other denominations and/or forms of ministry. I pray, simply, that while they have left behind their service as Officers, that they not ever 'leave the work'! I pray that, if it is His will, that they might be repatriated (reinstated) so as to serve God in the Army for many years to come. The next time you greet a former officer, try not to ask them, "when did you leave the work?", for they may not have left at all!
As often as God brings my fellow 'formers' to mind, I pray for them: some by name and for others in general. I know something of the difficulty transitioning brings. I pray first that they may guard their salvation carefully. I pray that God will keep them in some form of Army service. I ask God to bless those who may have moved on to other denominations and/or forms of ministry. I pray, simply, that while they have left behind their service as Officers, that they not ever 'leave the work'! I pray that, if it is His will, that they might be repatriated (reinstated) so as to serve God in the Army for many years to come. The next time you greet a former officer, try not to ask them, "when did you leave the work?", for they may not have left at all!
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Life After Officership
All 'Formers' can remember the excitement they first felt when first receiving word that they had been accepted as Candidates for the College (School) for Officers Training. It was a great day! God had called us to Army service and we were about to embark on a life changing journey. Reporting to our first appointment, as Corps Officers, was equally exciting and we vowed to serve God as He had equipped us to do. We worked hard and did our very best to show ourselves 'approved'.
Along the way, it became necessary for us to leave our 'red trim' behind. There are as many reasons for this as there are 'Formers'! For many, it was a traumatic experience. One of the issues I have had to deal with in the five years I have been out of officership, is the tendency to feel rejected. These feelings may be real or, perhaps, just perceived. Whatever the case, it is hard to be a member of a church family and then find yourself 'on the outside looking in'! Every 'Former' deals with this in their own way. Some are quick to change the trim on their uniform and forge ahead in service as soldiers. They quickly align themselves with a Corps and use their training and experience to benefit the Kingdom, while remaining in the ranks of the Army. Others feel God calling them to different ministries and, they too, forge ahead in the service of the King! Still others find secular employment, while identifying with a God honoring tradition. Sadly, some may leave the church altogether. Each of us handles our post officer realities in different ways!
If you are a former officer who is struggling with spiritual issues or, perhaps, with Army issues... know that God loves you, and He always has. He has not given up on you. You may be moving from His prescribed plan for your life and discovering His permissive plan, but you can be sure GOD STILL HAS A PLAN...a plan for you. It is not for me, or anyone else, to tell you what that plan is. God will do that! Let me simply encourage you in the faith, and then begin, once again, to use your training and experience for His glory and for the expansion of the Kingdom. It would be wonderful if you might still find an opportunity to reintegrate yourself in Army service. However, I recognize that that may not be possible for everyone. The important thing is that we all follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Safeguard your salvation, and then move in the direction God leads. Yes, there is life after officership! A wonderful life, so long as you find yourself in His service. May God Bless you!
Along the way, it became necessary for us to leave our 'red trim' behind. There are as many reasons for this as there are 'Formers'! For many, it was a traumatic experience. One of the issues I have had to deal with in the five years I have been out of officership, is the tendency to feel rejected. These feelings may be real or, perhaps, just perceived. Whatever the case, it is hard to be a member of a church family and then find yourself 'on the outside looking in'! Every 'Former' deals with this in their own way. Some are quick to change the trim on their uniform and forge ahead in service as soldiers. They quickly align themselves with a Corps and use their training and experience to benefit the Kingdom, while remaining in the ranks of the Army. Others feel God calling them to different ministries and, they too, forge ahead in the service of the King! Still others find secular employment, while identifying with a God honoring tradition. Sadly, some may leave the church altogether. Each of us handles our post officer realities in different ways!
If you are a former officer who is struggling with spiritual issues or, perhaps, with Army issues... know that God loves you, and He always has. He has not given up on you. You may be moving from His prescribed plan for your life and discovering His permissive plan, but you can be sure GOD STILL HAS A PLAN...a plan for you. It is not for me, or anyone else, to tell you what that plan is. God will do that! Let me simply encourage you in the faith, and then begin, once again, to use your training and experience for His glory and for the expansion of the Kingdom. It would be wonderful if you might still find an opportunity to reintegrate yourself in Army service. However, I recognize that that may not be possible for everyone. The important thing is that we all follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Safeguard your salvation, and then move in the direction God leads. Yes, there is life after officership! A wonderful life, so long as you find yourself in His service. May God Bless you!
Comment From a Facebook User
Came to the Army 8 yrs ago. I've enjoyed the sense of acceptance of soldiers, a welcoming--to come alongside & serve together with officers. Former Officers (& Officers) share much in common--issues, problems & solutions, so their dialogue can be encouraging and constructive.
Our Mission Statement
The USA East's Former Officers Fellowship has been formed to promote Healing and Restoration. This fellowship is a positive, God honoring group of former Salvation Army Officers, many of whom are still Salvationists. Our mission is to "heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds". We, as a fellowship, have no direct or indirect affiliation with the world wide Salvation Army, except that we are former officers (ministers) of that denomination.
We lift up all Soldiers and Officers of The Salvation Army in prayer and commend their ministry to the masses. We honor the service of all who have served in it's ranks. For those who have moved on to other ministries and fields of endeavor, we encourage you in those ministries God has brought you to.
It is our mission to gather like minded former officers into a Fellowship where healing will be effected, and continued service to God will be an ongoing reality for all.
Peter Drucker on The Salvation Army
Peter Drucker, famed management expert, says in his book, The Profession of Management: “The Salvation Army is by far the most effective organization in the USA. No one even comes close to it with respect to clarity of mission, ability to innovate, measurable results, dedication and putting money to maximum use.”
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Friday, August 30, 2013
Who Can Submit Articles for This Blog?
Would you like to submit an article for inclusion on this blog? While membership in the Fellowship is limited to Former Officers, this blog is open to all readers. You may fall into one of the following categories. If so, please feel free to share in this blog. Former Officers, Active Officers, Retired Officers, Ministers of other denominations, Lay Persons, Soldiers, leaders, etc. In other words, if you are one of our readers, you may submit articles that you feel will be uplifting and edifying. This includes personal experiences and scripture lessons. All articles should be submitted to: lawsgaryla@aol.com where they will be reviewed for appropriateness. Please keep you remarks positive and God honoring. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
Thoughts From the Word-Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Two great themes found in the New Testament are forgiveness and reconciliation. The Bible teaches that we are all sinners in need of forgiveness. That is the prerequisite to reconciliation to God.
While this is true with respect to our spiritual life, we find these same themes referenced with regard to our relationships with others. The ability to forgive is a powerful attribute! Yet, often it is not easy. When others hurt us or treat us unfairly, Satan works in the very depths of our being to thwart any inclination toward forgiveness of others. He makes us angry, resentful, and even vindictive in an effort to keep us from forgiving and moving on with our lives.
When we lack the ability to forgive, we deny ourselves the reconciliation that God intends for us to experience. Restored relationships bring with them a fulfillment that can be achieved in no other way. If we claim the name of Jesus Christ, then we are compelled to forgive, no matter how difficult it may be! The result will be the restoration of our relationships with others in a wonderful, grand way.
Could this also be true with our relationships within the church and towards it's leadership? I think so!
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Still On The Battlefield?
Are you a 'Former'who is still serving on the battlefield as a Salvation Army Soldier? Take a few minutes and share with others how God is continuing to use you. It is encouraging to hear reports from former officers who have elected to stay in the Army. There are many wonderful soldiers of Christ who have moved on to other fields of service, for sure. However, if you are still in the Army, tell us something of your work. If you find yourself serving other churches, you are welcome to share your thoughts as well. We would love to hear from you! Blessings on all, whether in or out! Send us an article to: lawsgaryla@aol.com and we will review it for inclusion on the blog!
Joy in the Salvation Army
I have been a Salvationist all of my life. What a joy it is to serve in a denomination whose focus is on the propagation of the Gospel and the elimination of human need. When I was a child, the Army and it's Officers and Soldiers were there to provide sound biblical teaching and mirror the life of Christ in their own.
As a teenager I was always thrilled to play with the Army band, attend Torchbearers and Crusaders along with being a Corps Cadet. Participating in the Divisional Youth Events and the Territorial Congress each year provided much needed fellowship with like minded youth.
Now that I am well into my adult years, it has been my privilege to be an Officer and, subsequently a soldier and to encourage my family to do the same.
Yes, indeed, joy has been a big part of this life long journey and it remains so. All my life I have been 'beating the Army Drum', so to speak. I'll continue doing that.
Share with us some of your favorite Army experiences here on our blog. Others will be encouraged!Submissions should be sent to: lawsgaryla@aol.com
WELCOME!
Welcome to our new blog. We encourage you to visit this page often in the days ahead. Also, if you would like to contribute an article for publication on this blog you are welcome to do so. Please send all submissions to Gary Laws: lawsgaryla@aol.com. All submissions will be reviewed for appropriateness before posting.
This site is intended to accomplish the following:
1) To glorify God and call attention to the saving and keeping power of Jesus Christ.
2) To publish edifying articles that will be of help and support to all who read it.
3) To emphasize the positive, God honoring ministry of The Salvation Army.
4) To encourage all readers to become (or remain) in Christian service, whether through The Salvation Army or through other ministries that God has called them to.
We hope that, in the days ahead, God will bless you and keep you!
Still Serving After Twenty Nine Years
I realize that many former officers have moved on to other denominations and that, too, is fine. I have some concerns, however, over the negativity found in the hearts of many toward the Army. Now, I understand that many may not have been treated fairly at the time of their resignation or termination. The Army, like any other organization, is made up those who are very human, even while making decisions that effect the lives of others. I have my issues also. Yet I continue to hold to the position that God has raised the Army to be a force for Him in this world. I believe that it is and I still want to be part of that.
In 2008 my wife and I resigned. Sue had several strokes which required me to remain at home with her 24/7. We had hoped for early retirement (we were only three years from our retirement date) , but that was not to be. No other alternatives were offered after we were told we did not have enough time in service to retire early. That hurt. It hurt deeply. Serving God in the Army has been our life.
Of course, we do realize that the Army has policies which must be adhered to. I would guess that I was not the best officer to 'come down the pike', but I always worked hard and gave God the glory. Incidentally, I wasn't the worst, either! In the final analysis, we have elected to remain soldiers. We hope to support others who have left the Army and we encourage a fellowship between them, whether they are still soldiers or have moved on. God bless each of you.
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