Tanzania Update

HABARI (Hello how are you!)
Greetings dear friends and followers
Just a change of procedure as I am currently in Mbeya Tanzania and having a great time. Arriving from Johannesburg on Tuesday having had a nice time there, with my daughter Cheryl we spent yesterday looking around and getting used to the place a little.
Today we are to be welcomed officially and commence our service in the Shrukani College. Today after the welcome and morning tea we have painting the walls of a class room and then this afternoon personal ministry with staff and students.
Cheryl and I are beginning to learn some Swahili and it is quite funny to watch the faces of the beautiful people when we say something that has not meaning to them at all. Perhaps it might be that one of the letters I write will be in Swahili so that will be interesting.

It is quite cold here and very noisy as we have a Pentecostal church one side of us and a Islamic Mosque the other side. We are kept up very late with the singing of the Pentecostals and woken at around 4.00 a.m with the call to the Islamic prayers, so it is great!
Our God is awesome and we praise Him for all His goodness.
I trust you will continue to remember us in your prayers as we will value them.
This is the day the Lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it!
That's all for the moment as Internet is very very expensive from here, but will try and keep an update as often as possible.
God Bless you!
Kwanheri....Goodbye (Swanhili)

FOUNDERS' DAY

Greetings dear friends and followers,
Today is a very important day to Salvationists around the world who would follow our history, as on this day 2nd July in 1865 the Christian Mission commenced in London with William Booth and Catherine Booth being anointed of the Lord to be the founders of a movement that would move around the world with the message of the Gospel of Salvation and God's grace.
Of course of special significance was the name change of this movement so in May 1878 this group became known as The Salvation Army, and now ministers in 116 countries with the message being proclaimed in 175 languages.
In this world wide movement there is a work for all who would want be of service to the Lord, and because of this I am reminded of a song I used to sing in church goes like this,: In the ranks of the dear old army, 'neath the yellow, red and blue, there's a place for every warrior if to God you will be true. Your reward will be a grand one, in the sweet by and by, there's a place for every warrior why don't you try, why don't you try? (The Song Book of The Salvation Army)
I am thinking of how the Lord can use whoever says "Yes Lord, I will follow and serve you!
Maybe it is possible that reading this, you feel that you could say yes to the Lord for full time service, within the Offcier ranks of The Salvation Army so joining the 26.032 currently Officers (including retired persons) serving right around the world. As the song says, "Why don't you try?"

Anyhow we are all called to be servants of the Lord and as His friends, we find joy in this service.

I am reminded that Jesus called many to follow Him, this is how He put it;"If anyone serves Me let him follow Me and where I am there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honour. (John 12: 22.)

Have a great day you never know it might be possible for you to see a new way which you can serve the Lord, and in Him find graet joy.

something new

Greetings dear friends and followers!
Can you believe it today is the first day of the last half of the year 2009, some even say it is the first day of the rest mf my llife, and that is so true.
Well you have guessed it,this day being the first day of the month I began thinking about the fact that it is a new day and everything about today should be a great blessing.
An old saying goes like, "There is nothing new under the sun!" (Eccl 1: 9) Well there are so many things that I find to be at least to me "NEW!"

Like, new places where I have never been ..... now they are not new of course,been there all of time, but to me they are new!

New sayings; Someone has said them before that's true, but to me I have never heard them so they are new.

New friends; Well this is something and I am pleased to say that as my age goes up so the number of friends increases and that's new!

I used to sing in church the words of this great song; "New every morning is the love our wakening and uprising prove, Through sleep and darkness safely b rought, Restored to life and power and thought." John Keble (1792-1866) Song 668 verse 1; The Song Book of The Salvation Army.

You know God does do new things within us and I am so pleased to know this experience, and hope you do also.

I am reminded that Jesus spoke of a new thing, it was in fact a commandment, this is what He said, "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you you should love one another. Your love will prove to the world that you are my disciples." John 13: 34,35.

This is not only something new, but the reason for it as well!

I am keeping myself ready today to find something new, maybe you could do the same thing and discover the newness of the power of God in your life today!

Have a great day, and find something new to do, and something new to enjoy. God Bless you!

BEING SURE

Greetings dear friends and followers!

This morning I was getting ready to go out and my wife asked, "Have you everything you need for the meeting?" My answer was,"Yes I have!" Then came another question. "Are you sure?"

It was the second question that struck me! Having said I had everything then to be challenged by "Are you sure!" started me thinking.

So very often we take many things for granted. When we leave our homes, are we sure we have turned all the power off, are we sure the iron has not been left on, when we write a letter, are we sure we have said all the things we needed to say, when we ask the Lord to give us grace, are we sure we know how to accept it when he gives it, when we move out on to the road of life are sure we are safe in Christ Jesus, that is to say, are we sure of our Salvation?

Strange questions aren't they, but you know they are the everyday questions that need to be asked and to be sure of. Especially the last couple.

I remember singing in Church the old song that has these words; " Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, when the clouds unfold their wings of strife? When the storm tides lift and that cables strain, will your anchor drift or firm remain?
We have an anchor that keeps the soul, steadfast and sure while the billows roll; Fastened to the rock which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Saviour's love." Priscilla Jane Owens (1829-1907) Song 280 The Song Book of The Salvation Army. Verse 1 and chorus.

I recall in the Gospel that Jesus in speaking to Peter had a time when he was really asking Peter if he was sure of His love and devotion to Jesus; You will remember the occasion I am sure!

Let's be sure and read it again: After they had finished eating,Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord" he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said feed my lambs." Again Jesus said, Simon son of John, do you really love me?" He answered, "Lord, you know that I love you." The third time Jesus said to him, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Peter asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord you know all things, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep." (John 21: 15 - 17.)


I ask myself the question as I write, and invite you to ask yourself this question with me, "Am I sure of my love to and for Jesus right at this moment?" My answer may I share it with you? "Yes! A thousand times, YES!" I love Jesus with all my heart and soul and strength." Hallelujah!

God bless you today may you have a day that you sure will enjoy!

"Now faith is being sure of what we hoped for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11: 1.

Saying goodbye

Greetings dear friends and followers!
Yesterday I mentioned that I conducted a funeral of dear Salvationist lady, this was a way in fact of saying goodbye.
Today with my wife we went to the airport and said goodbye to our sister-in-law who had been having a holiday with us and now returning to her home, so we had to say goodbye to her and our niece.

For a couple of moments we felt as if we really did not want to release them as we hugged them and told them how much we loved them, but then the time did come and we had to say those words good bye, however as I added the words, God bless you and keep you in His care, there seemed to be a very lovely calm and it would be alright to see them go through the door of the airport lounge on to their plane and back to their home.

What was the calming effect that came over me, I began to think as I drove home!

Well, it was knowing that as I held them that was fine but then to let them go in the care and protection of an Almighty God, the One I have proved, never fails and His grace and mercy are for all and He is faithful in His care of those whom we ask Him to look after, there it was, the peace and consolation and trust.

Have you any loved ones you are concerned about at this very moment?
Do you have any concerns that seemingly are hanging on to you?
Are you in an experience that you do not want to let go of?

Then let me give you this strong suggestion ---- let them all go and put them into God's care and control.

How can I do that? You may ask. Well there was a song I used to sing in Church and these are the words, by the way I still sing them often;
"All your anxiety, all your care, bring to the Mercy Seat, leave it there,
Never a burden He cannot bear, never a friend like Jesus.
Edward Henry Joy (1871-1949) Chorus of Song 246, The Song Book of The Salvation Army.

The Word of God puts it so beautifully, like this:
Cast your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you.
He will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55: 22.

In thinking about it, saying goodbye is a hard thing to do, but when it comes to saying goodbye to our cares and worries and letting them go to the Lord, we should not be too sad about it! Would you agree with me on this one?

Have a great day, and let the Lord care for you and yours!

NEW LIFE

Greetings dear friends and followers!
Today has been a day when I have been able to share with a good number of people, as I had to conduct a funeral of a very wonderful Salvationist at Rosebud Corps.

This soldier had been converted at the age of 12 years, became a Junior Soldier of the Northcote Corps and then in 1982 transferred as a Senior Soldier to the Rosebud Corps.

It was a great time this morning midst the sadness of having to say farewell in this sense to a lovely friend, but also a joy to know that from our Christian belief she is now forever with her Lord.

It was a lovely moment when a gentleman who was a member of this morning's congregation came and told me that something that had been said during the service had an impact on him, and that he wanted to speak more about the Christian experience of being "born again" and that for him it was time to be obedient to the Lord., and to discover this new life in Christ for himself.

Is it not true that out of death comes life! In his case a new life in Christ.

No wonder we can then with the Apostle Paul say, "O death where is thy sting, O grave where is thy victory, the sting of death is sin, but thanks be to God who gives us the victory through Jesus Christ our Lord. (1.Corinthians 15: 55)

I remember singing these words in Church and they are great; "He came to give us life in all its fullness, He came to make the blind to see, He came to banish death and doubt and darkness, He came to set His people free." John Gowans. ( The Song Book of The Salvation Army Song 274 --Chorus)

Some one once said to me, "I wouldn't be dead for quids!" You know that is my tetsimony, however there was a time when I was dead! Dead in trespasses and sin, but Jesus found me and gave me life. Hallelujah!

Today I hope you know you are alive, that is alive in Christ and enjoying life in all its fullness.

God Bless you today.

"You have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life." Psalm 56: 13.

NEW FOLLOWERS:
I notice that I have new followers and that is lovely. Welcome"Heart to God and hand to man" I trust you will find Laurens moment helpful, inspirational and a means of fellowship together. Great to have you on board. B less you heaps!

I heard the other day that the word "FELLOWSHIP" mean all us Christian fellows (men and women) in the one ship! It's true isn't it?
You may like to inform others of this blog site and thus we will build together this opportunity and avenue of fellowship and Christian love together. (A.R.L)

Catching up

Greetings dear friends and followers!
It is a while since I entered a blog "Laurens Moment" so thought I would catch up. However, this began a train of thought......"How do I catch up on what has gone?"
It is like so many things that come along our way and we can either keep up, lag behind or miss- out altogether, an d as far as trying to catch up it is the final one that I must admit that I have on my plate.....I have missed out altogether. Sadly, this means that our communication and fellowship time has suffered and for this I am deeply regretful.
However, here we are and on a new day finding much to give thanks to God for as we look at His love and Grace in our lives.

There are those things that we would want to have done ,but have not put ourselves into action, and so they now remain undone, maybe, never to be attempted, therefore lost forever.

Then there are things that we will give some little time and attention, and as we see them occuring, find that our best has not been given, so it seems the results are not too good anyway.

However, there are the things that have claimed our attention and our best energies and actions and we look and see the results and are pleased with what we see.

In all of this our attitude and reasoning for why we have done those things need to be checked out and to make sure that as a Christian all our actions are firstly to please God and to bring glory to His name.

I remember a verse of a lovely old song I used to sing at church, and I might say still do sometimes, these are the words: 'All my best works are naught, please they not thee; Far past my busy hands thine eye doth see into the depths of mind, searching the plan designed, Gladdened when thou dost find, first of all, thee. ' (Leslie Taylor-Hunt. (1901-79)
(Song 416 verse 3. The Song Book of The Salvation Army.)

I wonder as you read this day's blog, if you would mind checking to see if what you are doing is really bringing glory to God and fulfilling the energy of life that you have.
I am convinced that many are being called to follow and serve the Lord within a full time ministry (Offciership within The Salvation Army -- for instance) and all that needs to happen is to check out -- if God does not want me for full time ministry then what? and then make your commitment sure by contacting the people concerned for recruitment of Candidates.
(Blog me and I can give you the required information.)

It could be that your best works are in service called by the Lord to follow, so why not take up your Cross and follow Him today!

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. Romans 8: 28.

God Bless you have a great day, for this is the day the Lord hath made we will rejoice and be glad in it! Halleujah!

GIVING HOPE

Greetings dear friends and followers!
In a conversation with some friends earlier today as we bade our farewells the statement was made, "We hope to see you again soon!" Well you may have guessed it, this started a train of thought in my mind that I want to share with you.

Throughout the Bible we find many statements about "hope" and as we look at these we see we are called to have hope and also view the testimonies of those who declared their hope in God.
For instance David the Psalmist says to God in Psalm 25: 21, "I put my hope in you." The Apostle Paul in Romans 15: 13 prays that the followers of Jesus will overflow in hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
No doubt you have heard the statement "he has no hope!" What a terrible position to be in, it seems impossible to even visualise such a thing, but there are those who feel this is so for them.

So what about it? Have you found hope in Christ? I testify that my hope is in Jesus Christ and say Hallelujah!.

Well do I remember singing in church the words of that great hymn, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name. On Christ, the solid rock, I stand. All other ground is sinking sand." Song Book of The Salvation Army, 745. v: 1 & chorus. (Edward Mote 1797 - 1874)

I trust you will have a great day of hope and discover that in Christ, hope is as solid as a rock!

God bless you!

"What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for will happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot see. Hebrews 11: 1.

P.S I do welcome two friends as followers, Tim and Dabak, and HOPE for many more very soon. A.L.

Loving joy

Greetings dear friends!
With my wife Val, we have been away for a little time, actually we went to Canberra to visit and catch up with our grandchildren and had a great time.
When we arrived at our destination we were greeted by our eldest grandson (in Canberra) and felt the warmth of his love and something of the great pleasure in being able to see his grandparents after a very lengthy period of time.
For us it was a wonderful moment as well!

Then a short time later we met our other grandsons with the rest of the family, it was beautiful!
During our time, we not only caught up on the news of what had been happening, some events good and others not so good, such as a very bad car accident, for which we thank God everything has turned out to be alright, but we met new friends of the family.
And then we sat and shared something of mirth and fun bringing from us all absolute hilarious laughter, causing tears to simply flow from our eyes.

I felt that as we came together in this lovely home, we were able to find loving joy and in this a closeness and a binding of relationship with each other. (Better than a telephone conversation.)

I am reminded of the song we used to sing in church that has these words, "O there's joy in every heart, when there's love at home; There's a smile on every face when there's love at home! Voices have a kindly sound, Happiness beams all around, Peace and gentleness abound, when there's love at home." (Song book of The Salvation Army 664 : 1.) Anon.

A comment was made to me when I met the Corps Officer of the Salvation Army Church our family worship at during our visit, as I met him he said, "Welcome, I hope you will feel at home as you worship with us this morning!"

You know when I come to my prayer time and I speak with Jesus I feel very much at home in His presence, and there comes to my spirit a beautiful and warming loving joy. In actual fact there is really nothing else like it.

I wonder have you every had an occasion when you have had a good laugh in the presence of Jesus? Strange question you think! Well I am reminded that the joy of the Lord is my strength! In Him I find loving joy and plenteous grace. Hallelujah! I wish more Christians would find this as well.

I hope you will have a great day and in the presence of the Lord find great loving joy today!
God Bless you!

"Dear brothers and sisters, I love you and long to see you, for you are my joy and the reward of my work. So pleaee stay true to the Lord, my dear friends." Philippians 4: 1.

WIN A PRIZE

Greetings dear friends!

I was walking through our lovely shopping Mall this afternoon and a chap stopped me and asked if I would like to win a prize. My reply to him was, "Yes, I would!" "Well, buy a ticket and if you are lucky enough you could win first prize," he challenged me.

I have to tell you I did not buy a ticket, and most certainly I do not now have to spend time being anxious if I have won or not, so that's a good thing for my emotional well-being.

Yes it's true, my mind has been going over this "winning thing" and I want to testify right now that within my llife I am a winner, that's right, a winner.

You see in Christ I am a winner! That is I stand with him, knowing that in Him I have the victory.

It's like Paul says; "Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord!" ( 1.Corinthians 15: 57, 58. )


Winning or having the victory however, does not come easily, let's not fool ourselves, Christ won the Victory over death on the Cross, this was a terrible cost to pay, and we have to make sure that we ourselves in our living know this victory through making our own contribution to winning the prize.

I see it in the chorus I used to sing in church; "Ever is the War cry, Victory, victory! Ever is the war cry, Victory! Write it in your banners, get it on your knees, Victory, victory, victory!
The Song Book of The Salvation Army, Song 813 Ch. William Howard Doane (1832-1915)

Oh how I hope you are a winner in Jesus Christ, if you are not on the winning side, ask theLord to bring you in today, even right now!

Have a wonderful winning day, and in everything, give thanks! God Bless you!

"For whatever is born of God, overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world - - - our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (1.John 5: 4, 5.)

All round the world

Greetings dear friends!
Fellowship is a wonderful thing. I heard it once explained as,"All fellows being in the one ship!"

This is true with the Christian Fellowship and the work of the Salvation Army World Mission Fellowship, in fact I have just come home from the monthly meeting of this lovely fellowship group.

This group meets every first Monday night of the month in the Inala Village Chapel, Middleborough Road North Blackburn and commences at 6.30 p.m. The meeting goes for about 12o minutes and always is a real great time.

Are you thinking that this information is given so that you may feel as if you are invited to attend, well the answer is a strong YES! If you have any thought of how to support the work of God, at least through the avenue of The Salvation Army, then this is a good way to go.

Tonight we shared with a couple of young ladies from the Camberwell / Box Hill Salvation Army Churches who as part of a group had recently returned from a mission trip to Tanzania, where they gave of their time and energies in mission service. They painted walls, carried water, distributed food and clothing, led Christian worship and made sure everyone knew they were there because of love. (Paid all expenses from their own pockets!)

Isn't it just wonderful what you can do and give when you think out of the "self square?"
Paul the apostle told us that we ought to remember others and not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought, that is not a bad kind of instruction.

How blessed I was tongith to hear the story of the adventure of this young group and thank God for them and all they did whilst in Africa.

It might be that there are others who ought to answer the call of God, maybe not to go to Africa but to follow Him just where you are, because that is where He can best use you.

I remember singing in church these words; "Follow, follow, will follow Jesus, anywhere, everywhere I will follow on; Follow, follow, I will follow Jesus, Everywhere He leads me I will follow on." William Orcutt Cushing (The Song Book of The Salvation Army - - Song 483; Ch)

How I pray that you may be well aware of Who you are following and that you will be lead to a great exciting experience of life service.

"And Jesus went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted, and they came to Him." Mark 3: 13.

LOVE ANSWERS

Greetings dear friends!
Today in our church service our preacher spoke of the great love of God. The depth, the width, the heighth and the length of God's love to all His children.

It was quite an inspiring message and I am sure all in attendance appreciated being reminded once again of the ever wonderful love of God to all of us.

For some reason or other I was directed to look at the dictionary at this word "love" and was interested to see that in the game of tennis the word love is used as a score of zero....nilch!

I began to think there are many people in the world around us that through various circumstances sadly feel that in the area of love their score is 'zero' -- some are un loved because they are the unloveable. --- other are just so distressed because of the situation they find themselves, they tell themselves they are unloved.

Is it then to these people that we as Christians in the world are to be as ambassadors of the Kingdom of Love! I think so for if the Bible in a very simple verse says, "God is love!" then we who are called to represent God in our every day walk of life and witness of Him, then we are to actually be witnesses and examples of "love!'

In the every day walk of life people are talking these days such garbage and rubbish, and love has been depicted as something you can trash around and really as I see and hear around love is degraded beyond measure.

It's time to bring love back to what is really should be....... in fact bring God to where He ought to be.

Love in respect, love in reverence, love in truth, love in rejoicing, love in unity and not fragmentation, love in relationship that will enhance and not break down, yes love that will not desert or cast off, but rather hold on and be strong and wonderful.

I remember singing in church a beautiful song that was written by one of my favourite hymn writers and it says this; "O love that will not let me go, I rest my weary soul on Thee; I give Thee back the life I owe, that in its ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller be." (George Matheson 1842-1906) (The Song Book of The Salvation Army 621: v; 1.)

The message is that love is not just taking but giving also---something to be remembered!

I hope you are not a person who feels that for you, love is zero, if so stop and think with me, you will be amazed at the Love of God given and shared for you in Jesus Christ. I suppose that does really apply to all of us today.

God bless you have a great day and remember "You are loved beyond our understanding!"

"Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us." 1.John 4: 11,12.)

Youthful Talent

Greetings friends!
I have just come home from a most enjoyable programme (concert) at the Rosebud Salvation Army presented by the Musical Sections of the Waverley Salvation Army Young People.

If anyone went thinking that it would be a concert presented by some young people who were trying to impress they were wrong, for these young people gave a programme or a concert that would have been acceptable in the most prestigious audience anywhere.

The standard of deportment, musical ability and talent was excellent and brought great blessing and for an evening of good music it was just brilliant.

Each of the items brought a standard of excellence that the young people and leaders can be justly proud.
To see the enthusiasm, and hear the well rehearsed items was a pleasure and joy and the varied talents from each of the soloists, was something to thank God for.

The Young People's Band, the singing company and the Junior Timbrel brigade worked hard to bring pleasure to a congregation that showed over and over again their appreciation.

The solo items were all superb and worthy of the acclamation they received.

This was a night when we were able to join together to just do as the Psalmist said, "Praise the Lord! Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord!" Psalm 150: 6.

I remember singing in church these words; "I'm going to make my life into a melody, I'm going to praise my Saviour all day long, I'm going to my life into a symphony, a glorious symphony of song." (The Song Book of The Salvation Army 858:v 1.) Well the young poeple certainly helped us all to do this tonight.

Let me suggest that if you hear that the Waverley Young People's Musical Sections are putting on a concert, go and hear them you will not be disappointed.

Have a great day and may the music of your heart be in harmony with the Heavenly Score of God's composition.

"The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after, among them were the maidens playing timbrels." Psalm 68: 25.

PEACE AND JUSTICE

Greetings to you dear friends!
Do you find it difficult to believe that today we commence the fifth month of this year? Where have the last four months gone? Well we can't avoid the truth of it, they have gone! And we are today beginning May 2009. I remember as a young lad we used to have a holiday on this day. I think it was called 'Empire Day' and then it became 'May Day' or something like that and as childen we were taken into the city to see the great March, and people were demanding all kinds of things, amongst some of these demands was "PEACE!"
I have been reading a book entitled the words and inspiration of Desmond Tutu, and in this book Archbishop Desmond Tutu makes a statement and it is this; "Peace without justice is an impossibility!"
To be neutral in a situation of injustice is to have chosen sides already. Peace involves inevitable righteousness, justice, wholesomeness, fullnes of life, participation in decision making, goodness, laughter, joy, compassion, sharing and reconciliation.

So many people today are content to just sit "on the fence," but you know when too many people sit on the same fence it must fall down! Let's build fences of protection and justice and then peace will come and be a benefit to those who are finding difficulty and no fair play in the game of life.

I read in the Bible this verse in regard to what the Lord Himself requires of His people; "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6: 8.

I do believe that Jesus came and revelaed that if we live this way we may have peace with all men and peace within ourselves. Not such an impossible thing to achieve if we all work together to this end.

Jesus who came to bring justice to all men as God would have it, still requires that we live as He has shown us the way.

I remember singing at church these words of a lovely Hymn: "Jesus came with peace to me, His strong arm was stretched to me, then my burden took from me --- my Saviour. " (The Song Book of The Salvation Army Song Book 379 Ch.)

Have a great day and may you know the Justice and Peace of God in all you do today!

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14: 27.

Hello! This is!

Greetings to you dear friends!
This afternoon I took time to ring some friends I have not spoken to for a little time and it was lovely.
When the number was dialled, the ring tone was heard and then the phone answered, my opening remark was, "Hello this is Alan!"
The various responses were interesting and the feeling of worth while time was lovely within me and the coversation that followed was actually a check up of what had happened in the weeks and sometimes months that had gone since last we spoke.
How good it is when we are able to speak with friends and we share a common thread of interest with each other, we share each others joys and of course there are the times when we need to bear one anothers burdens and to cheer each other and encourage one another.
Our Lord, through the Holy Spirit, is always available to hear us and to share with us and we do this of course mainly through our prayer times, as friend with friend.
Like so many, I remember singing in church that lovely Hymn, written by Joseph Scriven, "What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear what a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer." (The Song Book of The Salvation Army 645 (1a)

If you are feeling lonely then call on Jesus, He is a friend beyond all friends!

I trust today will be a day of lovely friendship and fellowship for you.
God bless you!

"A man who would be friendly must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18: 24.

FINDING WHAT'S NOT LOST!

Greetings dear friends!
The other day I went into a state, that is, I lost my car keys, no matter where in the places I looked, I could not find them. Time was running short as I needed to be at an appointment, and the confusion of mind that I allowing myself to get into was nothing short of ridiculous. As I was going from one place to another all of a sudden the words of Scripture I used to sing as a chorus in church came to my mind, "Be still and know that I am God!" So I began to sing the words, and would you believe it, the calm that came over me was wonderful, so I sat down at my desk and bowed my head and asked the Lord to cover me with His peace completely, and He did.
As I opened my eyes and lifted my head, right in the very front of me were my keys. I must
admit I looked at them in amazement and the thought came to me," I said they were lost ,but God knew exactly where they were and to Him they were not lost at all. Yes, I actually found what was not lost!
I wonder if this is what John Newton discovered when he gave testimony in his song, Amazing Grace!
Look with me at the words of his first verse;
"Amazing grace! how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind but now I see. (The Song Book of The Salvation Army 308, v: 1.)

Do you feel lost today? Then let me tell you to the good and precious gracious Lord, you are His and by His death on the Cross of Calvary you have a place in His heart, what about right now giving Him a place in yours?

God bless you!
Have a lovely day, I am pleased to have found this time with you!

"It was right that we should make merry, and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, was lost and is found." Luke 15: 32.

Oh that's good!

Greetings dear friends!
I know that the season of Easter is now passed, but you know for me every day is an Easter Day!
When I get up in the morning I rise with Christ, everything is new and fresh and the challenge of a new day is truly 'awesome' as my grandson would say.
In fact my grandson asked me during the recent Easter period, why we call Good Friday, 'good'.

I gave my explanation as best I could and he accepted that, however, I have been reading again the writings of Philip Yancey in his book, "Finding God in unexpected places" and came upon this beautiful statement at the conclusion of his chapter thirty-one;
"Not even the murder of God's own Son could end the relationship between God and human beings. In the alchemy of redemption, that most villainous crime became a day we now call Good Friday."

It is true, that midst all the awful, horrid, unimaginable terror of such a day, God gave His Son to be my Saviour and your Saviour through the darkness and horror for the whole world that was nothing short of good! The true revelation of God's great love for the world, oh! that's good!

No wonder then that Charles Wesley wrote, and I still sing these words in Church and at home as well; "O that the world would taste and see the riches of His grace; the arms of love that compass me, would all mankind embrace." (The Song BookThe Salvation Army 60. verse 4)

I want to join the challenge of my dear Brother in Christ, Captain Stephen Court, to Salvationists who today are not sure what to do with your life, the reason you have this uncertainty more than likely is, you know you are not doing what the Lord requires of you, so why not surrender to Jesus and say, "Lord, I will follow you!" Officership and ministry within The Salvation Army is so fulfilling, so blest of God and really you will say nothing less than , Oh, that's good! Do it!
"He who does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me!" Matthew 10: 38.

God bless you have a great day and make sure it's GOOD!

A WINDY DAY

Greetings dear friends,
Sitting at my office desk this morning,I heard this incredible sound, and as I stopped my work and finally got up and went outside, I was met with the sound of a rushing, mighty wind.
The sound was matched by what was happening to the shrubs and the trees around my garden, they were all as it were, bowing to the force of this incredible wind. I felt it also.
I needed to go out later on this morning and I observed that all the dead leaves that had been lying around the tree base on the ground had all been blown away and in actual fact the area looked quite clean and was a pleasure to look at, as I observed what the wind had done.
I came back inside and looked again at a verse that I have remembered for many years, if you know something of the Day of Pentecost recorded in Acts, you will know the verse I refer to I am sure;
"And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing, mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting." Acts 2: 2: (K.J.V)

The wind, a mighty force, it filled not just part of but all of the house, did you notice that?
The Holy Spirit of God when He comes as a force, like a violent wind, does fill the whole house not just part. I speak of the house or the temple of God, for I have not only experienced in my life, but seen it in the lives of many, the incredible whole life changing way the Holy Spirit takes over and fills a life.
Not just an empowerment but an entire clean up! That's what we need in our spiritusal lives!

The wind of God is also called the breath of God and well do I remember singing in church the words; "Breathe on me, Breath of God, fill me with life anew, that I may love what thou dost love and do as thou wouldst do." (Edwin Hatch.) Salvation Army Song Book 189 v erse 1.
I must also mention the wonderful thing that I have noticed, when after the sound of the rushing, mighty wind, as I heard this morning, when the wind subsides and its work has been done, the gentle breezes come and the lovely quietness is beautiful and peaceful.
So I pray, "Drop thy still dews of quietness till all our strivings cease; take from our souls the strain and stress, and let our ordered lives confess the beauty of Thy peace." (John G. Whittier 1807-92)
May the love of God and the grace of Jesus be with you and may you know the precious sweetness of the breath of God through the presence of His Holy Spirit today. Amen!

God's best!

Greetings dear friends!
It happened again during worship this morning, I mention it not to be critical but to express my feeling and acknowledgement of God's handiwork and grace.
The leader of the meeting was encouraging us as a people of God and then made the comment for us to be aware that; "God has not done His best yet!"
WOW! I cringed in my seat and also in my spirit, you know why?
I have never experienced anything of God that has not been His best for me, therefore where does the suggestion that God has not done His best yet come from, and we ought to pray that one day we will see His best prevailed upon us, His children.
I cannot agree! for there is nothing shoddy, nothing but excellence, nothing but awesomeness that comes from my God.
Have you ever experienced anything but goodness, and perfectness from God?
You only need to look at a sunset or if you are an early riser a sunrise to see something perfect. Look at a person who has come from the depths of sin and degradation and see the change in the life, this is something of God, best in grace and mercy, see again the uplifted Cross, the empty Tomb and you will see the best in Love and Salvation.
I thank God for I know the best of God in my life and daily I seek He may give me grace through His Holy Spirit to become more and more like Jesus who displayed the best gift of God to man.
Can you remember the saying that went like this,"Good, Better, Best, Never let it rest,'Til your good gets better and your better gets best!" (Author: Unknown)
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with Whom there is no variation or shadow of turning!" (That is to say God's best always) James 1: 17
I used to sing in church; I love Him better every day, close by His side there will I abide; I love Him better everyday!" (The Salvation Army Song Book Chorus 169)

Have a great day and enjoy the best God has for you!

REMEMBRANCE

Greetings dear friends!
Well what a day it has been, here in Melbourne a great crowd of over 40,000 young and old alike meeting at the Shrine for the Dawn service and of course there would be many thousands more throughout Australia who met in a similar way and this time, and then the March of Remembrance and the Commemorative services, all held because of the solemn statement that we all make in reverance; "LEST WE FORGET!"
Our remembrance is for those who gave their lives and who returned injured in body, mind or spirit and emotions from a fight or wars that came and we trusted would not be repeated between nations and peoples.
Yes in the sacredness of this day we remember and I give thanks to God for all the sacrifices that was made, for I acknowledge that I am a beneficiary of all that took place as I live in this wonderful land of Australia.
I very quickly however, think of a request that was made to Jesus in regard to being remembered, it came from one of the thieves on the cross, who said to Jesus, "Lord! remember me when you come into your Kingdom!"
The reply of Jesus to Him came as a result of the sacrifice of His own life as Hesus died for him and for all who confess .Him as Saviour and Lord. "This day you will be with Me in Paradise!"
As we have been remembering the sacrifice of many, at this moment I remember the sacrifce of Jesus and pray that in return He will remember me. Would you also make this your desire and action of thought?
I remember well the chorus I used to sing in church, it says, "Remember me, remember me, dear Lord remember me. Remember, Lord,thy dying groans, and then remember me." Salvation Army Song Book Song number 105 (chorus)
"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends!" John 15: 13.

A sacred place

Greetings Friends
You know doubt saw the news cast that spoke of the many people who are gathering at Gallipoli for the Anzac remembrance services, and even though midst all the difficulty and request for people to stay away the faithful are assembling together. I hope that this year the time shared will be meaningful and significant for all who join together at this sacred place.

I have been thinking of this place, and for many it is a sacred place, it is a place where the call to service, the call to sacrifice and the call to duty is remembered.
I give thanks to God for all who gave their lives so that we might live in peace and safety.

I used to sing a song at church that reminds me of another sacred place, a place where in fact I have actually been privileged personally to visit, here are the words; "Wonderful place called Calvary, wonderful place called Calvary, love redeeming love, love I see, at the place called Calvary." (The Salvation Army Song Book Chorus 29.)

Simple words that is true, but the reminder for me is that at Calvary, my Jesus gave His life so that I might live in peace, with God, and safety in the knowledge of sins forgiven and eternal joy assured, yes, today I again come to that sacred place and remember.

"And when they came to the place called Calvary, here they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the left and the other on the right; and He lifted up His voice and said, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do!" St. Luke 23: 33,34.

The Lord bless you in the very place you find yourself right now.

THE NEW SONG

Geetings to you today!

As I walked out of my front door this morning I was greeted with the wonderful sounds of several magpies who were singing their morning song of Praise, (at least that what I call it!)

In fact every morning this is what I hear from them, it is a very interesting sound and believe it or not I have learnt the call from the "guard bird" to others. Especially when we put out some food the call goes out that the food is now available, and the birds swoop down for their fill.

I have been reading the Psalms in regard to new songs and it is very interesting to see the progression. Follow with me if you will just for this moment!

Psalm 33: 3, we are instructed; " to sing a new song and play skillfully with a shout of joy!" We need to be a singing people active with the skills we have in our own lives, use them or lose them.

Psalm 40: 3. Here we are shown how blessed we are, "The Lord in His activity in our lives puts a new song in our mouths" God always gives us a freshness in His presence and as we are reminded by a nother writer, 'New every morning is His love, faithfulness and grace!'

Then I see a people of promise ansd covenant, Psalm 144:9, We promise to sing a new song unto the Lord, and have a wonderful experience in this very beautiful gift.

So I am grateful for the Magies, the precious Word of God and the song that is ever new.

This reminds me of words I used to sing at Church;" We'll sing in the morning, the songs of Salvation, We'll sing in the nnontide the song sof His love, and when we arrive at the end of our journey, We'll sing ther songs of Zion in the courts above." (Salvation Army Song Book Chorus 222)

"They sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the son of the Lamb." Revelation 15: 3(a)

God Bless you have a great day as you sing to the Lord in all your service!

Message of the stars

Greetings to you in Jesus!
Have you seen the sky at night lately? Have you taken time to look up and see the magnificent star filled wonder?
My grandson and I the other night spent a fair time just looking up to the sky, and we began finding the various groups of stars such as the Lion, the Saucepan, the Southern Cross and so on, it was quite fascinating and interesting.
Astrologers claim the stars influence your future and Physics claim to know your future; the Bible condemns such things (Isaiah 47: 13,14), however you know in the Bible the stars are mentioned and I thought it would be interesting to share something of the names of the constellations with you.
There are 12 major constellations. Their modern names, which tell us nothing of their original meanings, are in parenthesis. Each major constellation has three other constellations associated with it which modify or complete its meaning. They are called decans. but because of space and time, I will list only the major signs.
The Incarnate Son (Virgo) Isaiah 7:14
The Redeemer (Libra) 1 Cor. 6:20
The Sufferer (Scorpio) 1 Cor. 15:55-56
The Conqueror (Sagittarius) Rev. 6:2
The Sacrifice (Capricornus) Romans 3:25
The Living Water (Aquarius) John 7:38
The Liberator (Pisces) Gen. 48:19; Mark 1:17
The Crowned Lamb (Aries) Rev. 5:6
The Judge (Taurus) John 5:22
The King (Gemini) Romans 1:3
The Protector (Cancer) Isaiah 4:5-6
The Victor (Leo) Rev. 5:5
As mentioned previously, the names of the stars themselves give definition to each of the constellations. These names are preserved from the most ancient of times. In world history, we find the major signs of the constellations are the same in the meaning of their names and their procession in the major civilizations of the world. These 12 major constellations (or Mazzaroth, Job 38:32 KJ) mark a continuous circle (ecliptic) or line around the earth which today is called Zodiac, from the Greek word zoad and meaning The Way or A Path (John 14:6; Psalm 119:105).

Remember it was a star that led the wise men to Jesus, may it be that we may be led to Jesus our Bright and Morning Star. (Revelation 22:16)

Well I trust that this will not make you star struck but rather reveal the wonder of our God’s creation.

I used to sing at church; “Summer and winter, and spring time and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above, join with all nature in manifold witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. (Salvation Army Song book 33 verse 2.)

God bless you each one, serve Him with gladness today!

FINDING THE CORRECT WAY

Greetings dear friends!

With members of my family we had a very nice drive recently and enjoyed the surroundings of the scenery as we travelled. However at one point we came to a "T" intersection and we had to make a decision about which way we should go. I have to admit that I did take the advice of fellow passenger, my wife, and quess what, we made the right decision and arrived at our destination safe and sound, continuing to enjoy ourselves.

In the Scriptures there are a couple of verses that speak about "the way we take." There is a severe warning in this one, "There is a way that seem right to a man, but it is the way of death!"
Proverbs 14: 12.
The other one is found in the book of Isaiah 30: 21. "Your ears shall hear a word behind you saying,"This is the way walk you in it." Whenever you turn to the right hand, or whenever you turn to the left."
I am interested in the way that verse from Isaiah says the word will come from behind us, you know this indicates that the Lord is looking forward with us, and He is with us, in fact right behinds us as well as in front of us, because we are also told,'the Lord knoweth the way that we take.'
Surely when we have commited our way unto the Lord then we can walk confidently knowing that we are on the correct way.
I used to sing these word: "When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, what a glory He sheds on our way; while we do His good will, He abides with us still, and with all who will trust and obey." (Salvation Army Song Book 397.)
I trust you will have a great day, on the correct way for your life's journey. God bless you!

Missed out!

Greetings to you all - - - God is love!
Yesterday I missed placing my blog and this morning I was thinking did it matter? Well, I must say that I am sorry that it was not there and I certainly missed it for several reasons.
I missed out sharing the fellowship of writing to whoever it may be that has commenced to read this Blog.
I missed out being able to give some thoughts that I had about the week after Easter that had come to my mind.
I missed out on the agreement I had made that I would give a daily blog.
Well simply, I missed out!
I have been thinking that sometimes we may miss out on our prayer time either on a day or even a couple of days, does it matter? Well think about this statement I heard some time ago, "If I miss out on one day of prayer, I know it, if I miss out on a couple of days, some folk around me will sense it, but then, seven days of missing prayer makes one weak (week)!
I think the principle of daily prayer must in reverse then makes one strong.!
The hymn writer, James Montgomery says, "Prayer is the Christian's vital breath, the Christians native air, his watchword at the gates of death, his password into heaven." (The Salvation Army Song Book 625)
Have you prayed today? Don't miss out, pray now!
By the way, do you know what God wants you to do with your life? Ask Him, He will certianly tell you!
"Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful." Romans 12: 12.
God bless you! Have agreat day!

NOT ALONE

Greetings dear friends!
I woke this morning and realised that I had promised to prepare and cook the breakfast for family, so to work. Bacon, eggs, baked beans on toast is our breakfast with tea or coffee.
We do enjoy the food and of course the most important thing about this time is the lovely fellowship of the family all coming together and enjoying each others company.
The rest of the day was spent in each one finding their particular task to do and we then settled own to enjoy the evening in our own particular way.
The day went fairly quickly and as I reflect it was just wondeful being together.
I am also wondering about those who feel lonely as they went through today, some perhaps have spent today as the first day of a week-end without a loved one, maybe there have been some who have gone on holidays or a particular work job and had to go alone, not a pleasant experience, maybe for some.
This led me to remember that Jesus told His disciples that He was going away and that even though this was the case they would not be left on their own, He would send the Comforter, The Holy Ghost to be with them.
You know in this statement, Jesus reveals that He does not want any of His people to be on their own, He knows what it is like to feel lonely and isolated, and in His feeling for His people never wants them to go through the same experience, to me at least, this is wonderful.
The oppportunity to share someones feeling through the "blog program" is another way of companionship and so at this moment if you were happening to feel alone, take it from me you are not alone, the Lord is with you!
One of the beautiful word pictures in Scripture tells of a pray time of Jesus, you may read it for yourself in John 14, but here is one verse that blesses me; "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever." John 14: 16
We used to sing these words at church, "Constantly abiding, Jesus is mine, Constantly abiding, Rapture divine, He will never leave me lonely, He whispers O so kind, " I will never leave thee Jesus is mine!'"

Is seeing believing?

Greetings to you!
I have been thinking of the saying that says, "Seeing is believing!" I thought about this statement when I read a profile of the Founder William Booth on a web site this morning. The site says that William Booth born 1929 Died 1916.
Well as far as I recall and in the history of The Salvation Army William Booth was 'Promoted to Glory' in the year 1912.
In this regard seeing is not believing!
I went the other day to Marysville and saw the devestation that was horrific and then as I travelled along the highway to see the new growth on the burnt out blackened trees was truly incredible, in fact if I had not seen it with my own eyes I may not have believed it possible so quickly.
This morning I read the account of the disciple Thomas who stated; "Unless I see in His (Jesus) hands the prints of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe!" John 20: 25 (b)
Now in a sense I can understand, but what Thomas was saying was, "Seeing is believing!"
I remember asking a patient in the spinal unit at the Austin Hospital on one occasion what was the most wonderful thing he had seen, his replied stunned me as he said, A life changed by the power of the Holy Spirit!"
Well as I have seen what God has done in my life, I cannot help but believe He is a most powerful and wonderful God and then to see and hear the testimonies of others, "seeing is believing" God can do miracles.
Yes today I say, "My God how great Thou art"; The song/hymn, gives the reason, "I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.: Then sings my soul, my Saviour God ,to Thee: How great Thou art!" (Author Carl Boberg - 1859-1940)
Have you today discovered how great is our God? Look around and see what He has done and then you will not be able surely to do anything else but believe Him.
"I would have lost heart, unless I had believed, that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." Psalm 27: 13.

PRECIOUS PROMISE:

Greetings to you!
This evening I was speaking with a young couple about their coming wedding ceremony and when asked about the vows and promises the discussion was very interesting as it was decided that the words used for the promises would be the "traditional promises" and not new ones made up.
I was thinking about the statement, "traditional promises" and as I considered the term thought about some of the so called traditional promises I have made during my life time.
I remember the promises made every Monday morning at school as with the other students I pledged allegiance to God, King and country, these were very traditional promises indeed.
Then when I was enrolled as Junior Soldier, I made promises to read my Bible, to pray and live a life that was pure in thought word and deed. Special spiritual promises that were increased when sworn in as a senior soldier.
Then when I signed my Officers' Covenant at the Training College, to make the first great desire to win souls for the Kingdom of God and to be a faithful Officer of The Salvation Army, these were life commitment promises.
Then what about the promises I made on my wedding day, to be faithful to my wife till death came to me, these were very personal promises, and so it could go with the various promises made to many people down through the years.
Then I thought of the promises of God that are never failing and as William Booth is quoted as saying, "All the promsies of God are sure, if you only believe!"
Well to me the promises of God are sure even if I were not to believe, they will never fail, and the Bible tells me that these promises are made all of His creation. Wonderful isn't it?
Well the Salvation Army song book tells me this wonderful truth in the words of General Albert Osborn ; "All the promises of God are sure, through the ages shall their truth endure; Hallelujah! To the heart that's pure all the gracious promsies of God are sure." (Song 755.Ch)
One of the great promises I would like to quote is this: "If you call on the name of the Lord you will be saved!" Have you taken this promise of God for yourself ? if not, why not take it now!
"For all the promises of God in Him (Jesus) are Yes , and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us." 2.Corinthians 1: 20.

The Power of Prayer

Greetings dear friends,
A very good friend of mine sent me a story through E.Mail and I want to share it with you on this occasion. I might say the story challenged me to be faithful in prayer and in particular not to let any sense of the need to pray slip by. Please read the story and be challenged and motivated by it. You may even like to share it with others. Here it is;
Have you ever felt the urge to pray for someone and then just put it on a list and said, 'I'll pray for them later'? Or has anyone ever called you and said, 'I need you to pray for me, I have this need?' Read the following story that was sent to me and May it change the way that you may think about prayer and also the way you pray. You will be blessed by this.... A missionary on furlough told this true story while Visiting his home church in Michigan. 'While serving at a small field hospital in Africa, every two weeks I traveled by bicycle through the jungle to a nearby city for supplies. This was a journey of two days and Required camping overnight at the halfway point. On one of these journeys, I arrived in the city where I planned to collect money from a bank, purchase medicine, and supplies, and then begin my two-day journey back to the field hospital. Upon arrival in the city, I observed two men fighting, one of whom had been seriously injured. I treated him for his injuries and at the same time talked to him about the Lord. I then traveled two days, camping overnight, and arrived home without incident.... Two weeks later I repeated my journey. Upon arriving in the city, I was approached by the young man I had treated. He told me that he had known I carried oney and medicines. He said, 'Some friends and I followed you in to the jungle, knowing you would camp overnight. We planned to kill you and take your money and drugs. But just as we were about to move into your camp, we saw that you were surrounded by 26 armed guards. At this, I laughed and said that I was certainly all alone in that jungle campsite. The young man pressed the point, however, and said, 'No, sir, I was not the only person to see the guards, my friends also saw them, and we all counted them. It was because of those guards that we were afraid and left you alone' At this point in the sermon, one of the men in the congregation jumped to his feet and interrupted themissionary and asked if he could tell him the exact day this happened. The missionary told the congregation the date, and the man who interrupted told him this story: 'On the night of your incident in Africa , It was morning here and I was preparing to go play golf. I was about to putt when I felt the urge to pray for you. In fact, the urging of the Lord was so strong, I called men in this church to meet with me here in the sanctuary to pray for you. Would all of those men who met with me on that day stand up?' The men who had met together to pray that day stood up. The missionary wasn't concerned with whom they were, He was too busy counting how many men he saw standing.
There were 26.
"Praying always with prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perserverance and supplication for all the saints." Ephesians 6: 18.

FRIENDSHIPS

Greetings to you each in the name of our Risen Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ!
During our time of visiting the Healesville area yesterday, we met some old friends, that is to say folk we know and have not seen for a short time, it was great to catch up and to hear how things are going for them and to share our journey with them.
Friendship is a truly wonderful thing and it is to be valued indeed. Friends are those people who remain close to us and are very special in our thoughts and feelings.
Friends are people who when you met after a time it seems as if you only said goodbye yesterday!
My wife and I used to say,"a true friend is one who knows all about you and loves you just the same!"
I think that describes my friendship with Jesus, what do you think?
One of the lovely occasions with Jesus and the disciples was when he was meeting with them and he shared his inner feelings with them, read it in the account given by St John in chapter 15.
The lovely old song says it well for me;
A friend when other friendships cease, a friend when others fail; a friend who gives me joy and peace, a friend who will prevail.
Friendship with Jesus, fellowship divine, O what blessed sweet communion, Jesus is a friend of mine. (Author: Joseph C. Ludgate) (d.1947)
You are my friends if you do whatsoever I command you. John 15: 14.

What happened on Monday?

Greetings to you each in the name of Jesus the Risen Lord!
I was travelling in the car this afternoon after having a lovely day with the family and as I listened to the programme on the car radio a question was posed by the announcer and it was this?
"We know that Jesus was crucified on Good Friday and He rose from the dead on Easter Sunday, but what actually happened on Monday?"
Yes you are right, my mind began its task of thinking on this question. A clergyman who was travelling for a short holiday break was contacted and his answer was that Jesus appeared to some people on the road to Emmaus, but as I read the account of this incident in St.Luke's account chapter 24, I see that Jesus appeared to these folk on the same day that he appeared to Mary in the garden of the tomb.(This would be Easter Day, Sunday)
In the Gospel of John chapter 21, I think it tells us what happened on the Monday! Jesus meet with his disciples who with Peter had decided to go fishing, and they saw Jesus on the shore (beach)having prepared breakfast, in actual fact it was the third time he has revealed himself in appearance after his rising from the tomb.
Interesting isn't it, that after such an ordeal of stress and strain of the Friday, then a time of shock and almost disbelief on the Sunday, Jesus calls his disciples to enjoy a prepared breakfast on the beach - - - - yes midst all the stress and bewilderment Jesus calls us to relax and just be with him.(The next morning..Monday!)However it does not stop there for midst the relaxtion of breakfast Jesus challenges Peter in regard to His love and devotion and we hear the great call to care for the Lord's flock.
Maybe we ought to be reminded that there is a time when we need to relax because it is then that we can be prepared for the work of loving and caring for the flock of God, His sheep.
It might be that midst all the care and stress, we need to come to the beach, it may be that we will see Jesus there, and if we look we may even see just one set of footprints - - - He will carry us when we find it difficult to to meet the pressures of ministry and as He carries us He will give us strength and energy then gently put us down to walk in His strength from the food of grace He has prepared on the beach of service.

Paul may have found this when he said;"And He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." 2.Corithians 12: 9(a).

EASTER DAY HALLELUJAH!

Greetings to you all on this wonderful Easter Day. "Christ is risen, - - - - -He is risen indeed!"
If you had been at the early morning "Sun rise" service held by the wonderful folk of the Rosebud Salvation Army Corps, at Arthurs Seat Look-out (near Rosebud Victoria) you would have found the whole area blanketed in thick cloud or fog. Still, the service continued and the message proclaimed "Christ is Risen!" and the response "He is risen indeed", echoed through this mist filled area.
As the morning progressed so the fog cleared and the beautiful Easter day was enjoyed by all who gathered for the public worship service at the Corps, which was just wonderfully full of blessing and enrichment.
Yes its true, if you know me, you will know that my mind allows me to wander into some interesting aspects of thought and so it is that I have been thinking of not just today but rather the day that brings us to celebrate Easter Day.
The day the women went to the tomb with their spices and ointments to attend to the body of their precious Jesus, the running Peter and the other disciples who were all wondering what the women's message was all about.
It was surely a "fog filled" area around them, as the mists of doubt came swirling around them,
but praise be to God the mist was cleared as the Risen Christ was revealed and the day became clear and the rejoicing sounds of "He is risen indeed!" were heard as well as repeated by many.
Well today I joined with other Christians who no longer walk in the fog or mist of doubt but rather enjoy the thrill of a clear experience of having Christ alive in them. He is risen indeed!
I still enjoy the chorus that says, "Alive, alive, alive for evermore, my Jesus is alive, alive for evermore, Alive, alive, alive for evermore, my Jesus is alive. Sing Hallelujah! sing Hallelujah!
My Jesus is alive for evermore, Sing Hallelujah! Sing Hallelujah! My Jesus is alive.

1.Peter 1: 3-5. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritence incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." "He is risen indeed!"

A Waiting game

My grandaughter's friend was watching the television advertisement for a forthcoming action movie and made the statement, "I can't wait till this movie is released!"
Well, my mind began racing as I thought of what must have been happening in that grave when Jesus was buried and the stone was pushed to the entrance as a man made seal.
Can you imagine with me all the powers of hell and heaven working as the hours past and the great event of the Easter morning was approaching.
The powers of Hell trying to make sure that resurrection would not take place and the powers of heaven getting ready for the great proclamation, "He is risen!"
I'm getting ready to meet the dawn and to see the sun rise so that I may proclaim the SON risen.
You know like my gradaughter's friend, I can't wait for this release, but then as I think about it, I have already experienced the release of the Power of God in my life, have you? If not why not make this Easter Day very special by asking the Resurrection Power and glory of Jesus to fill and flood your life.
Like the chorus says; "When the glory gets in to your soul, you will shout the praises of your heavenly Father, when the glory gets in to your soul.

"So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard. "
Matthew 27; 66

GOOD FRIDAY

Today I heard it said several times that this day is the most sacred day of the Christian calendar and as I shared with family and friends in worship truly the lovely presence of the Lord was very real.
Good Friday to me is a time when I have actually been able to remind myself of the great price that was paid for my sin by Jesus at Calvary, but then as I think about it, would it not be correct to say that He also had to go through some serious thinking at Gethsemane?
The old chorus is a very wonderful guide it says this; 'Lest I forget Gethsemane, lest I forget thine agony, lest I forget thy love for me, lead me to Calvary.'
I challenge myself by asking if I happen to be in company with the disciples in Gethsemene , would I like them fall asleep making the excuse the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak?
And what about at Calvary, where would I actually be, would I like some try to find a place to hide or would I be bold enough to be up front to be counted?
Well today as once again I was challenged I confess that I want to be strong in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and witness that I am a follower of Christ.
Because He has paid the price at Calvary, my sins are under the Blood and I can be counted with Him as one who is not afraid to confess Jesus as my Lord, my Saviour and my King.
What about you? Will you join me in also standing up for Jesus as a soldier of the Cross, let me invite you to do just that and in doing so may God bless you today!

"When the centurian saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying,"Certainly this was a righteous man." Luke 23: 47.

Special time

Greetings! A most profitable time was held within the Waverley Temple Corps this evening. Major Warren and Captain Kirsten Elliott hosted a Passover Celebration. What a blessing as we shared together.
A special moment was when we gave each other a personal blessing after the Passover meal, such a special time, it was suggested we consider doing this at our home after our meal, not such a bad suggestion.
Here we are ready to follow Jesus! For me this song verse will be important this year. "Jesus I my cross have taken all to leave and follow thee, Though I be despised, forsaken, Thine from hence my all shall be." (SASB 498: 1)
May you have a Holy and a spiritually blessed Easter.
Father if it is your will, take this cup away from me: neverthe less not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22: 42