Monday, June 28, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Will there ever really be peace on earth?
By Captain Michael Ramsay
The Salvation Army
Nipawin Journal
January, 2008.
Yes. The real question is when? The Scriptures say that the heavens and earth will be made anew or that even a whole new heavens and earth will be made. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and Jesus is coming back. When Jesus returns in the flesh (if not before) there will most certainly be peace on earth. This is important. I think that sometimes we forget that Jesus is actually coming back.
The Salvation Army’s official position on world peace is as follows:
The plan for creation is that all people shall live in a harmonious relationship with God. It acknowledges that only within this relationship can perfect peace be fully known, and that this peace transcends the circumstances of this life. Greed, selfishness and injustice, however, have entered human lives and often result in conflict and, at times, armed aggression.
Therefore, in the light of the Gospel and in obedience to the one who declared, “Blessed are the peacemakers,” The Salvation Army through its ministry around the world confronts the poverty, injustice and the inequalities that so often give rise to disharmony and unrest, and seeks to foster mutual respect and understanding between peoples of all races, ethnic origins, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions and cultures.
Recognizing the appalling character of modern warfare, The Salvation Army urges nations to eliminate all weapons of mass or indiscriminate destruction and divert those expenditures into measures that will benefit society, and especially into providing services that promote the welfare of the poor, suffering or disadvantaged, and bring about a more just society. The Salvation Army is ready to work, alone or in partnership with others of goodwill, to bring about an end to armed conflict and to promote reconciliation between opposing factions. It also undertakes to extend in Christian love its practical care to those who suffer because of war, civil unrest or other forms of violence, without discrimination except on the basis of the need being met and its capacity to meet it.
The Salvation Army calls upon all within its influence – members, friends and fellow Christians – to pray for peace, to love their enemies and to work for the betterment of society, witnessing to God as the source of lasting peace and to a right relationship with God as the only path to perfect peace.
Related:
Is War ever Just?: http://www.sheepspeak.com/is_war_ever_just.htm
More position statements: http://www.salvationarmy.ca/positionstatements/
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www.sheepspeak.com
The Salvation Army
Nipawin Journal
January, 2008.
Yes. The real question is when? The Scriptures say that the heavens and earth will be made anew or that even a whole new heavens and earth will be made. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and Jesus is coming back. When Jesus returns in the flesh (if not before) there will most certainly be peace on earth. This is important. I think that sometimes we forget that Jesus is actually coming back.
The Salvation Army’s official position on world peace is as follows:
The plan for creation is that all people shall live in a harmonious relationship with God. It acknowledges that only within this relationship can perfect peace be fully known, and that this peace transcends the circumstances of this life. Greed, selfishness and injustice, however, have entered human lives and often result in conflict and, at times, armed aggression.
Therefore, in the light of the Gospel and in obedience to the one who declared, “Blessed are the peacemakers,” The Salvation Army through its ministry around the world confronts the poverty, injustice and the inequalities that so often give rise to disharmony and unrest, and seeks to foster mutual respect and understanding between peoples of all races, ethnic origins, socioeconomic backgrounds, religions and cultures.
Recognizing the appalling character of modern warfare, The Salvation Army urges nations to eliminate all weapons of mass or indiscriminate destruction and divert those expenditures into measures that will benefit society, and especially into providing services that promote the welfare of the poor, suffering or disadvantaged, and bring about a more just society. The Salvation Army is ready to work, alone or in partnership with others of goodwill, to bring about an end to armed conflict and to promote reconciliation between opposing factions. It also undertakes to extend in Christian love its practical care to those who suffer because of war, civil unrest or other forms of violence, without discrimination except on the basis of the need being met and its capacity to meet it.
The Salvation Army calls upon all within its influence – members, friends and fellow Christians – to pray for peace, to love their enemies and to work for the betterment of society, witnessing to God as the source of lasting peace and to a right relationship with God as the only path to perfect peace.
Related:
Is War ever Just?: http://www.sheepspeak.com/is_war_ever_just.htm
More position statements: http://www.salvationarmy.ca/positionstatements/
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www.sheepspeak.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Urgent Need for Cleaning Kits and Donations for Maple Creek
The Salvation Army Press Conference
With the Minister of Public Safety, Yogi Huyghebaert
At the SaskEnergy Customer Service Centre
1601 Winnipeg Street at 10am
(Regina, Saskatchewan -June 24, 2010) Over 700 Clean Up Kits are needed for use by volunteers, as well as to give to families who will be starting the long, hard process of cleaning up after the devastating floods. The cost of one Clean Up Kit is $50. Financial donations are greatly needed for Emergency Disaster Clean-up and to purchase Clean-Up Kits.
Victim Services has been working closely with The Salvation Army going out into the effected areas of Maple Creek and the country side. SaskEnergy is one corporation who has stepped forward in donating $2500 and the Swift Current Canadian Tire has donated 50 Cleaning kits.
The Salvation Army was quick to respond with trained Officers, employees and volunteers arriving from Regina, Swift Current, Melfort and Saskatoon; with food, bedding, and willing hands. Everyday we are feeding 50-75 people who were displaced from their homes and volunteer workers. The Salvation Army is also providing Spiritual and Emotional Care and helping with whatever needs to be done from handing out the clean up kits to helping haul items out of basements.
Major Henri Regamey, The Salvation Army Disaster Relief Coordinator for Saskatchewan stated: “People are pumping water out of their basements and tossing out just about everything. Some homes have had their foundations cave in, sewage is backing up in homes and houses are being declared unlivable. Both town and country people have also been hit by flood waters in the past few days, we have been told that there are up to 80 other communities in SK and area that have been devastated by the flood waters.”
Financial donations and cleaning kits can be donated to the Regina office at 2240 – 13th Ave.
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Pamela Snider
Communications Specialist (Southern Saskatchewan)
Office: 757-3111
Cell: 551-2230
E-mail: Pamela_snider@can.salvationarmy.org.
Did you Know in Regina?
That since 1895, The Salvation Army has been proudly carrying on its 115-year tradition in Regina of compassionate care for vulnerable people.
Last year in Regina, The Salvation Army served over 110,000 meals and the Waterston Centre in Regina housed over 2000 individuals.
The Salvation Army serves the community of Regina 365 days a year through 6 facilities which offers 14 social programs in the city such as safe shelters, meals, warm clothing, addiction rehabilitation, work readiness programs as well as emergency and disaster services to name a few.
We continue to ensure that the highest percentage of your donation is used in direct service delivery. On average, 88 cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army is used directly in charitable activities – well above the Canada Revenue Agency guideline of 80% donation efficiency.
About The Salvation Army in Canada
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 120 countries around the world.
The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca/manitoba.
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www.sheepspeak.com
With the Minister of Public Safety, Yogi Huyghebaert
At the SaskEnergy Customer Service Centre
1601 Winnipeg Street at 10am
(Regina, Saskatchewan -June 24, 2010) Over 700 Clean Up Kits are needed for use by volunteers, as well as to give to families who will be starting the long, hard process of cleaning up after the devastating floods. The cost of one Clean Up Kit is $50. Financial donations are greatly needed for Emergency Disaster Clean-up and to purchase Clean-Up Kits.
Victim Services has been working closely with The Salvation Army going out into the effected areas of Maple Creek and the country side. SaskEnergy is one corporation who has stepped forward in donating $2500 and the Swift Current Canadian Tire has donated 50 Cleaning kits.
The Salvation Army was quick to respond with trained Officers, employees and volunteers arriving from Regina, Swift Current, Melfort and Saskatoon; with food, bedding, and willing hands. Everyday we are feeding 50-75 people who were displaced from their homes and volunteer workers. The Salvation Army is also providing Spiritual and Emotional Care and helping with whatever needs to be done from handing out the clean up kits to helping haul items out of basements.
Major Henri Regamey, The Salvation Army Disaster Relief Coordinator for Saskatchewan stated: “People are pumping water out of their basements and tossing out just about everything. Some homes have had their foundations cave in, sewage is backing up in homes and houses are being declared unlivable. Both town and country people have also been hit by flood waters in the past few days, we have been told that there are up to 80 other communities in SK and area that have been devastated by the flood waters.”
Financial donations and cleaning kits can be donated to the Regina office at 2240 – 13th Ave.
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Pamela Snider
Communications Specialist (Southern Saskatchewan)
Office: 757-3111
Cell: 551-2230
E-mail: Pamela_snider@can.salvationarmy.org.
Did you Know in Regina?
That since 1895, The Salvation Army has been proudly carrying on its 115-year tradition in Regina of compassionate care for vulnerable people.
Last year in Regina, The Salvation Army served over 110,000 meals and the Waterston Centre in Regina housed over 2000 individuals.
The Salvation Army serves the community of Regina 365 days a year through 6 facilities which offers 14 social programs in the city such as safe shelters, meals, warm clothing, addiction rehabilitation, work readiness programs as well as emergency and disaster services to name a few.
We continue to ensure that the highest percentage of your donation is used in direct service delivery. On average, 88 cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army is used directly in charitable activities – well above the Canada Revenue Agency guideline of 80% donation efficiency.
About The Salvation Army in Canada
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 120 countries around the world.
The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, providing shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction. When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca/manitoba.
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www.sheepspeak.com
Is Jesus God?
By Captain Michael Ramsay
Nipawin Journal, May 28 2008.
Is Jesus God?
Yes.
Like every Christian, I affirm that Jesus is God. This is a non-negotiable in Christianity and it is an important question. If you go to a church or have someone show up at your door talking about religion, I encourage you to ask her this very question: Is Jesus God? Simply put, if the person cannot answer with an unequivocal yes, then she is not a Christian.
Jesus Christ is ‘truly and properly God’ (TSA Doctrine 4). ‘He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made . . .’ (John 1:2-3). The character and being of God were fully present in the life of the man Jesus, for ‘He who has seen me has seen the Father’ (John 14: 9). In the Gospel of John we read that ‘the Word became flesh and lived for a while among us’ (John 1:14). In Philippians, Paul expresses this truth when he describes Christ as ‘being in very nature God’, and yet ‘taking the very nature of a servant’ (Philippians 2: 6-7). In Hebrews, Jesus Christ is referred to as ‘the radiance of God’s glory and exact representation of his being’ (Hebrews 1:3). A number of names and titles taken from the language of the Old Testament and from the first-century world are brought to the aid of those seeking to express in relevant language the inexpressible mystery of the fullness of God present in Jesus Christ. … At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, a statement was formulated which embraced the twin truths that Jesus Christ is one integrated person, with a divine and a human nature, ‘without confusion, without change, without division, without separation . . . at once complete in Godhead and complete in manhood, truly God and truly man’ (from the Chalcedonian Definition). In the person of Jesus we see humanity fully open to divine grace and we see God revealed to us. (‘Salvation Story: Salvationists Handbook of Doctrine’, pp 37-38).
Jesus is God and as Jesus died and returned to life, he is the Lord of both the living and the dead and sooner or later actually every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Romans 14:9-11, cf. Isaiah 45:23) for 'Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved' (Acts 4:12).
www.sheepspeak.com
Nipawin Journal, May 28 2008.
Is Jesus God?
Yes.
Like every Christian, I affirm that Jesus is God. This is a non-negotiable in Christianity and it is an important question. If you go to a church or have someone show up at your door talking about religion, I encourage you to ask her this very question: Is Jesus God? Simply put, if the person cannot answer with an unequivocal yes, then she is not a Christian.
Jesus Christ is ‘truly and properly God’ (TSA Doctrine 4). ‘He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made . . .’ (John 1:2-3). The character and being of God were fully present in the life of the man Jesus, for ‘He who has seen me has seen the Father’ (John 14: 9). In the Gospel of John we read that ‘the Word became flesh and lived for a while among us’ (John 1:14). In Philippians, Paul expresses this truth when he describes Christ as ‘being in very nature God’, and yet ‘taking the very nature of a servant’ (Philippians 2: 6-7). In Hebrews, Jesus Christ is referred to as ‘the radiance of God’s glory and exact representation of his being’ (Hebrews 1:3). A number of names and titles taken from the language of the Old Testament and from the first-century world are brought to the aid of those seeking to express in relevant language the inexpressible mystery of the fullness of God present in Jesus Christ. … At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, a statement was formulated which embraced the twin truths that Jesus Christ is one integrated person, with a divine and a human nature, ‘without confusion, without change, without division, without separation . . . at once complete in Godhead and complete in manhood, truly God and truly man’ (from the Chalcedonian Definition). In the person of Jesus we see humanity fully open to divine grace and we see God revealed to us. (‘Salvation Story: Salvationists Handbook of Doctrine’, pp 37-38).
Jesus is God and as Jesus died and returned to life, he is the Lord of both the living and the dead and sooner or later actually every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Romans 14:9-11, cf. Isaiah 45:23) for 'Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved' (Acts 4:12).
www.sheepspeak.com
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
A new person to the rescue...
Lori Reimer has joined our EDS team heading down to help out in Maple Creek!
No one died during the flooding...
A note from Major Henri Regamey
Dear Friends:
I would just like to bring you up to date with the situation in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan.
The flooding occurred on Friday, June 18. The water flowed down highway 21 and either side of the highway affecting various neighbourhoods. The west side of the town was hardest hit - especially the local trailer park which has been declared unlivable. The water was the highest here, and rose to approximately 7 feet above ground. Water marks are easily visible on these homes, as well as sheds overturned and decks ripped from their posts. Houses in the new subdivision and on the streets closest to the highway also had basements filled with water; The Salvation Army Corps Officer's quarters sustained extensive water damage in the basement. People are pumping water out of their basements and tossing out just about everything. Some homes have had their foundations cave in, sewage is backing up in homes and homes are being declared unlivable.
On Friday, June 18, immediately following the flooding of a portion of the town of Maple Creek, the Corps Officer, Captain Ed Dean has been working with the town office. The Salvation Army began offering assistance immediately. The corps (church) building has been set up as a feeding centre offering three meals a day to those whose homes were affected, to aid workers and volunteers. The Katimavik youth program, which has been volunteering with The Salvation Army is currently assisting with anything needed. Their home has been flooded and is unlivable. Clothing is being offered through the local Salvation Army Thrift Store, and an Emotional & Spiritual Care Team has been set up involving the local ministerial, the town's victim services, and Salvation Army personnel. The Emotional & Spiritual Care Team has been interacting with people, offering care, support and prayer - many people only had time to escape with the clothes on their backs, and some had to even be rescued from their homes. Fortunately, no one died during the flooding.
The first Salvation Army personnel to come and assist the officers in Maple Creek came from Regina (Captain Steven Cameron and Ben Hoeft) with the Emergency Disaster Services truck from Regina. They left Maple Creek on June 20. The next team included Captain Terri Wallace and Kathy Lowry from Regina, and Captain Jamie Rands, Captain Rhonda Smith, Sylvia Stevenson and myself from Saskatoon. That team leaves on Tuesday and another team from Swift Current (Lloyd and Elaine Blyth, Rachel Sloper, Alvin Gador, Larry Jaster) will be arriving on the same day. With the assistance of Major Judy Regamey (Area Commander) and her Admin Assistant, Jacki Harris, we have set up a rotation of volunteers from across the province of Saskatchewan, as well as Captains Les and Tiffany Marshall from Winnipeg, until July 5th. Early next week, we will review the situation to determine what, if any, additional support will be needed.
In closing, thank you for your interest, prayers, and support for the people of Maple Creek.
Major Henri Regamey
Emergency Disaster Coordinator
Director Service Extension Unit at Kindersley &
Ministry Outreach- The Battlefords
Prairie Division, Saskatchewan
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Captain Michael Ramsay
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Dear Friends:
I would just like to bring you up to date with the situation in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan.
The flooding occurred on Friday, June 18. The water flowed down highway 21 and either side of the highway affecting various neighbourhoods. The west side of the town was hardest hit - especially the local trailer park which has been declared unlivable. The water was the highest here, and rose to approximately 7 feet above ground. Water marks are easily visible on these homes, as well as sheds overturned and decks ripped from their posts. Houses in the new subdivision and on the streets closest to the highway also had basements filled with water; The Salvation Army Corps Officer's quarters sustained extensive water damage in the basement. People are pumping water out of their basements and tossing out just about everything. Some homes have had their foundations cave in, sewage is backing up in homes and homes are being declared unlivable.
On Friday, June 18, immediately following the flooding of a portion of the town of Maple Creek, the Corps Officer, Captain Ed Dean has been working with the town office. The Salvation Army began offering assistance immediately. The corps (church) building has been set up as a feeding centre offering three meals a day to those whose homes were affected, to aid workers and volunteers. The Katimavik youth program, which has been volunteering with The Salvation Army is currently assisting with anything needed. Their home has been flooded and is unlivable. Clothing is being offered through the local Salvation Army Thrift Store, and an Emotional & Spiritual Care Team has been set up involving the local ministerial, the town's victim services, and Salvation Army personnel. The Emotional & Spiritual Care Team has been interacting with people, offering care, support and prayer - many people only had time to escape with the clothes on their backs, and some had to even be rescued from their homes. Fortunately, no one died during the flooding.
The first Salvation Army personnel to come and assist the officers in Maple Creek came from Regina (Captain Steven Cameron and Ben Hoeft) with the Emergency Disaster Services truck from Regina. They left Maple Creek on June 20. The next team included Captain Terri Wallace and Kathy Lowry from Regina, and Captain Jamie Rands, Captain Rhonda Smith, Sylvia Stevenson and myself from Saskatoon. That team leaves on Tuesday and another team from Swift Current (Lloyd and Elaine Blyth, Rachel Sloper, Alvin Gador, Larry Jaster) will be arriving on the same day. With the assistance of Major Judy Regamey (Area Commander) and her Admin Assistant, Jacki Harris, we have set up a rotation of volunteers from across the province of Saskatchewan, as well as Captains Les and Tiffany Marshall from Winnipeg, until July 5th. Early next week, we will review the situation to determine what, if any, additional support will be needed.
In closing, thank you for your interest, prayers, and support for the people of Maple Creek.
Major Henri Regamey
Emergency Disaster Coordinator
Director Service Extension Unit at Kindersley &
Ministry Outreach- The Battlefords
Prairie Division, Saskatchewan
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Captain Michael Ramsay
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Volunteers from Swift Current flood to the rescue
Volunteers from Swift Current went down with The Salvation Army to help with the flood relief in Maple Creek, SK.
In the attached picture are from left to right: Lloyd Blyth, Elaine Blyth, Rachel Sloper, Alvin Gador, Larry Jaster.
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General information about The Salvation Army's Emergency Diaster Services fro the national website, www.salvationarmy.ca :
Disasters can occur at any time and in any place. They often bring great death and destruction in their wake. The unpredictability of a disaster makes it all the more devastating. Canada is fortunate that emergency preparedness experts at all levels of government have well-organised, definitive plans, in which The Salvation Army plays an important part. But, despite the armies of trained personnel ready to go into action, very often the best we can do is to mitigate the effects of a disaster, and deal with its aftermath.
Whenever disaster strikes, the presence of Salvation Army personnel is expected. Often assigned a specific role by Emergency Preparedness authorities, such as counselling, registration and identification, transportation, emergency housing, feeding or clothing, The Salvation Army is well equipped to handle any demands made of it in a disciplined and resourceful manner.
Here are some examples of the emergency and disaster work of The Salvation Army:
* We were first to arrive and last to leave when tragedy struck the World Trade Center in New York; we have counselled and comforted grieving relatives of those lost in air disasters at Paris (France), Gander (Newfoundland), Locherbie (Scotland), and at Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia; we worked tirelessly during Manitoba’s devastating flood and Eastern Canada’s ice storm, and we assisted with emergency relief operations overseas in Rwanda, Albania, Kosovo, and, of course, in Iraq.
* Our emergency response unit from Vancouver supported searchers for a ten-year old girl, abducted in Surrey, BC. When the child was later found murdered, Salvation Army public relations staff helped the family deal with the media, and the officer (pastor) of the local Salvation Army church officiated at the funeral.
* We were at Winnipeg’s south perimeter bridge shortly after a double-fatality vehicle crash occurred. Salvation Army personnel assisted at fires in Vancouver, Winnipeg and Orillia and, in February, our disaster response personnel from Lethbridge, Calgary and Edmonton were on hand to assist people displaced as a result of the train derailment chemical spill at Red Deer. Within hours of a tornado striking the Green Acres Trailer Camp near Pine Lake, Alberta, Salvation Army personnel were on the scene. And at Campbellton, Newfoundland, we were there for six days, ministering to family members and to those searching for the body of a man who accidentally drowned.
* Flames engulfed a newly renovated multi-unit dwelling on Ottawa’s Arlington Street, leaving 50 people homeless. In -22° C weather, 60 fire-fighters, their clothing and gloves stiff from frozen spray, battled the blaze for 9 hours before bringing it under control. From start to finish, Salvation Army workers were on the scene, assisting fire-fighters and making its Ottawa Booth Centre a reception area, offering emergency lodging and feeding for those who had lost their homes, and everything they owned, in the blaze.
* We provided relief to those left homeless by the fires in the B.C. Interior in 2003, and served the relief workers with mobile feeding stations close to the fire providing meals and refreshments.
The Army’s unique, international, quasi-military structure enables it to move quickly into action. Like no other civilian body, it can mobilise officer-personnel, resources, volunteers and financial support from the public at large, and bring them to bear where the need is greatest. And what motivates its humanitarian services? Love for God, allied with a practical concern for the needs of humanity.
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www.sheepspeak.com
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
This is the general human condition of the truth-deniers: sinful man is capable of committing all of these sins
Romans 1: 18-32
The section begins with Paul acknowledging the human condition of those who “by their wickedness [asebeia] suppress the truth (1:18).” This is significant. Their condition is stated as receiving the wrath of God for good reason: Paul points out that the truth they are suppressing must be plain to them for God, himself, has shown it to them (1:19) through the evidence of His creation. Ever since the beginning of the world, God’s power and nature have been understood (v.20).
Though this truth was revealed to them, they neither honoured God nor gave Him the thanks He deserves; rather ‘claiming to be wise they became fools’ in that they abandoned the glory of the creator so that they might worship the image of the created (cf. Psalm 106:20). It is because they, without any good excuse, disregarded the truth and followed this lie that “God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity (v.24).” The human condition here is, by way of denying the obvious truth, one of rebellion against God.
Much could be written on the lists included in vv.26-31. What is significant for our purposes here is that God gave the truth-deniers up to their “unnatural” (para physin) passions (v.26): they had intercourse with people of the same gender and “received in their own persons the due penalty for their error (v.27).”[8] Further, “since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind (v.28):” they were filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, covetousness, malice, envy, murder, strife, deceit, craftiness, gossip, slander, God-hatred, insolence, haughtiness, boastfulness, inventing evil, rebellion against parents, foolishness, faithlessness, heartlessness, and ruthlessness (vv.29-31; cf. 2 Tim 3:2,3). This is the general human condition of the truth-deniers while acknowledging that “sinful man is capable of committing all of them [these sins], but not every individual is necessarily guilty of every one.”[9] These truth-deniers, Paul asserts, are aware that they deserve to die for participating in these things and that they not only partake of these actions but also encourage others to indulge in the very same acts. The result, then, of disregarding the truth about the divine nature and eternal power of God is to be given over to these unnatural desires and to act upon a debased mind; this is the human condition and for this they deserve to die.
read more from 'Paul and the Human Condition as reflected in Romans 1:18-32 and 2:1-16': http://sheepspeak.com/NT_Michael_Ramsay.htm
The section begins with Paul acknowledging the human condition of those who “by their wickedness [asebeia] suppress the truth (1:18).” This is significant. Their condition is stated as receiving the wrath of God for good reason: Paul points out that the truth they are suppressing must be plain to them for God, himself, has shown it to them (1:19) through the evidence of His creation. Ever since the beginning of the world, God’s power and nature have been understood (v.20).
Though this truth was revealed to them, they neither honoured God nor gave Him the thanks He deserves; rather ‘claiming to be wise they became fools’ in that they abandoned the glory of the creator so that they might worship the image of the created (cf. Psalm 106:20). It is because they, without any good excuse, disregarded the truth and followed this lie that “God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity (v.24).” The human condition here is, by way of denying the obvious truth, one of rebellion against God.
Much could be written on the lists included in vv.26-31. What is significant for our purposes here is that God gave the truth-deniers up to their “unnatural” (para physin) passions (v.26): they had intercourse with people of the same gender and “received in their own persons the due penalty for their error (v.27).”[8] Further, “since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind (v.28):” they were filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, covetousness, malice, envy, murder, strife, deceit, craftiness, gossip, slander, God-hatred, insolence, haughtiness, boastfulness, inventing evil, rebellion against parents, foolishness, faithlessness, heartlessness, and ruthlessness (vv.29-31; cf. 2 Tim 3:2,3). This is the general human condition of the truth-deniers while acknowledging that “sinful man is capable of committing all of them [these sins], but not every individual is necessarily guilty of every one.”[9] These truth-deniers, Paul asserts, are aware that they deserve to die for participating in these things and that they not only partake of these actions but also encourage others to indulge in the very same acts. The result, then, of disregarding the truth about the divine nature and eternal power of God is to be given over to these unnatural desires and to act upon a debased mind; this is the human condition and for this they deserve to die.
read more from 'Paul and the Human Condition as reflected in Romans 1:18-32 and 2:1-16': http://sheepspeak.com/NT_Michael_Ramsay.htm
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
I desire mercy, not sacrifice...
Jesus says, quoting Hosea 6:6: “But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but ‘sinners.’”
The Pharisees: they did many things right in the eyes of their community. If around today, they certainly wouldn’t have been smokers or heavy drinkers; they would be embarrassed if they were ever caught speeding or if they accidentally bounced their cheque to the church but, knowing that all of this stuff is good that they do, Jesus says that that is not what is most important. God desires mercy and not sacrifice.
I remember once when I was visiting a good church many, many years ago; a street person came in and lay down on the pews for a nap. A good, self-sacrificing pastor at this time at this church asked him to leave.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have also seen congregations where nice, good, self-sacrificing church people have sat pouting, arms crossed all through the service because some stranger had dared to come an unwittingly sit in their seat.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have in my time heard good self-sacrificing church people complain because a teenager showed up in jeans or in other ways not dressed the right way.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have heard divorced people tell me that they felt shunned at church by these good self-sacrificing Christians after their marriage collapsed but
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have heard single mothers tell me that they don’t feel welcome in many churches by good, self-sacrificing Christians but
Jesus says 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’
Well what about us here today? Do we follow the letter of the law at the expense of the spirit of the law? Do we make sure that we listen to good Gospel music but neglect to be hospitable to the people God brings across our path? How do we greet the people God brings across our path? Do we extend to them the hesed covenant love of Christ who went over to their homes, in whatever condition of upkeep their homes were in?
Today, like always, I invite us to examine ourselves...
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
The Pharisees: they did many things right in the eyes of their community. If around today, they certainly wouldn’t have been smokers or heavy drinkers; they would be embarrassed if they were ever caught speeding or if they accidentally bounced their cheque to the church but, knowing that all of this stuff is good that they do, Jesus says that that is not what is most important. God desires mercy and not sacrifice.
I remember once when I was visiting a good church many, many years ago; a street person came in and lay down on the pews for a nap. A good, self-sacrificing pastor at this time at this church asked him to leave.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have also seen congregations where nice, good, self-sacrificing church people have sat pouting, arms crossed all through the service because some stranger had dared to come an unwittingly sit in their seat.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have in my time heard good self-sacrificing church people complain because a teenager showed up in jeans or in other ways not dressed the right way.
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have heard divorced people tell me that they felt shunned at church by these good self-sacrificing Christians after their marriage collapsed but
Jesus says, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'
I have heard single mothers tell me that they don’t feel welcome in many churches by good, self-sacrificing Christians but
Jesus says 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’
Well what about us here today? Do we follow the letter of the law at the expense of the spirit of the law? Do we make sure that we listen to good Gospel music but neglect to be hospitable to the people God brings across our path? How do we greet the people God brings across our path? Do we extend to them the hesed covenant love of Christ who went over to their homes, in whatever condition of upkeep their homes were in?
Today, like always, I invite us to examine ourselves...
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Do we believe that continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ?
Doctrine 9 may be read almost as a counter-balance to the justification by faith expressed in the eighth doctrine. It is one that will need to be explored a little more in depth. It is certainly one of our more controversial doctrines: continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ. ‘Depends’ is the main point of contention in this doctrine. It is the lynchpin of many an argument made rationally and theologically that our position is purely a doctrine of works.
Does our Salvation depend upon our works? If it does, would it follow that we could earn our Salvation? This sounds like the debates of the first century Church pertaining to circumcision (cf. Acts 15, Romans 2-4, Gal. 5:1-5), meat sacrificed to idols (cf. 1 Cor. 8), and dietary laws (cf. Acts 10, 15; Gal. 2:11-21). Are we, by this doctrine, as some have suggested, “…putting God to the test by placing on the neck of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear” (Acts 15:10). If so, it would seem to contradict The Salvation Army’s eighth doctrine. How can one be justified by grace and not have one’s salvation secured? Will God change His mind? Will He suddenly decide to ‘harden your heart’ (cf. Ex. 4:21, 7:3, 9:12) or send an evil spirit to torment you? (cf. 1 Sam 16:14) Will he say that he never knew you? (cf. Matt. 7:23)
Salvation Story offers an interesting response to this line of questioning: on initial examination it apparently, for our part, reinterprets the word ‘depends’ as ‘is evidenced by’ and leaves the conditional work entirely to Christ. “We remember that an ongoing union with Christ depends on his work and not our feelings...Such assurance must be affirmed daily by obedience and never made an excuse for carelessness or complacent presumption. It is the changed life that is evidence for the work of grace within.” ‘Obedience’ is mentioned in the preceding comment; ‘dependency’ - as our part - is not. The argument seems thus far to state that our continued Salvation depends not on our continued obedient faith but rather on Christ’s work. “We believe that God, who has accepted and saved us and given us eternal life, has given us also the assurance of our standing in him.” These statements on ‘assurance’ appear to read more like an acceptance of a doctrine of ‘perseverance of saints’ than one of ‘conditional perseverance.’
This assurance, however, is seemingly unsecured for “assurance does not mean that our salvation is guaranteed to us against our own free will. It is possible to cease to obey Christ and so to forfeit our hope of eternal life. This is consistent with our understanding of the grace of God, who always leaves us open to respond freely to him. Freedom to live by grace includes freedom to turn away.” The Salvation Army then allows for the much accepted Christian doctrine of the eternal loss of the apostate. If one does not renounce God but displays no ‘continued obedient faith’, does one forfeit one’s salvation? How does it relate to backsliders?
“Backsliding, then, is possible for true Christians. It can occur through the deliberate rejection of Christ, or, more insidiously, when we drift from the way of discipleship or neglect the means of grace. This does not mean that every time we sin we slide away from the grace of God. Even our many failures will not deprive us of the Holy Spirit’s presence if we turn to him for forgiveness and restoration. When we live a life of continued obedient faith in Christ we need not fall from grace and be eternally lost.”
This returns the discussion to an earlier question: does the Salvation Army really believe that one’s Salvation is dependent upon one’s continued obedience or - excepting apostasy - does it merely believe it to be evidence of one’s Salvation? “Our Salvation is assured as long as we continue to exercise faith in Jesus Christ. Such faith is expressed in obedience to his leadings, will and commands [1 John 2:3-6]. Obedience as a free-will choice is a consequence of faith, and without it, faith dies. Our conversion inaugurates a journey during which we are being transformed into Christ’s likeness. Thus Salvation is neither a state to be preserved nor an insurance policy, which requires no further investment. It is the beginning of a pilgrimage with Christ.”
The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand; Salvation as a pilgrimage is a good analogy. It takes us from our initial contact with the Lord through to sanctification: “it was for [holiness] we were born and to fall short of this will be infinite, eternal loss, and doom us to an everlasting night of shame and contempt.” “Our walk with Him must be constant…or else we will seek for Him some day and not find Him.” We believe that 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 Salvation Army actually does then observe that a continuance in a state of Salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ.
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www.sheepspeak.com
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Soldiers' classes are on Wednesdays...
Does our Salvation depend upon our works? If it does, would it follow that we could earn our Salvation? This sounds like the debates of the first century Church pertaining to circumcision (cf. Acts 15, Romans 2-4, Gal. 5:1-5), meat sacrificed to idols (cf. 1 Cor. 8), and dietary laws (cf. Acts 10, 15; Gal. 2:11-21). Are we, by this doctrine, as some have suggested, “…putting God to the test by placing on the neck of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear” (Acts 15:10). If so, it would seem to contradict The Salvation Army’s eighth doctrine. How can one be justified by grace and not have one’s salvation secured? Will God change His mind? Will He suddenly decide to ‘harden your heart’ (cf. Ex. 4:21, 7:3, 9:12) or send an evil spirit to torment you? (cf. 1 Sam 16:14) Will he say that he never knew you? (cf. Matt. 7:23)
Salvation Story offers an interesting response to this line of questioning: on initial examination it apparently, for our part, reinterprets the word ‘depends’ as ‘is evidenced by’ and leaves the conditional work entirely to Christ. “We remember that an ongoing union with Christ depends on his work and not our feelings...Such assurance must be affirmed daily by obedience and never made an excuse for carelessness or complacent presumption. It is the changed life that is evidence for the work of grace within.” ‘Obedience’ is mentioned in the preceding comment; ‘dependency’ - as our part - is not. The argument seems thus far to state that our continued Salvation depends not on our continued obedient faith but rather on Christ’s work. “We believe that God, who has accepted and saved us and given us eternal life, has given us also the assurance of our standing in him.” These statements on ‘assurance’ appear to read more like an acceptance of a doctrine of ‘perseverance of saints’ than one of ‘conditional perseverance.’
This assurance, however, is seemingly unsecured for “assurance does not mean that our salvation is guaranteed to us against our own free will. It is possible to cease to obey Christ and so to forfeit our hope of eternal life. This is consistent with our understanding of the grace of God, who always leaves us open to respond freely to him. Freedom to live by grace includes freedom to turn away.” The Salvation Army then allows for the much accepted Christian doctrine of the eternal loss of the apostate. If one does not renounce God but displays no ‘continued obedient faith’, does one forfeit one’s salvation? How does it relate to backsliders?
“Backsliding, then, is possible for true Christians. It can occur through the deliberate rejection of Christ, or, more insidiously, when we drift from the way of discipleship or neglect the means of grace. This does not mean that every time we sin we slide away from the grace of God. Even our many failures will not deprive us of the Holy Spirit’s presence if we turn to him for forgiveness and restoration. When we live a life of continued obedient faith in Christ we need not fall from grace and be eternally lost.”
This returns the discussion to an earlier question: does the Salvation Army really believe that one’s Salvation is dependent upon one’s continued obedience or - excepting apostasy - does it merely believe it to be evidence of one’s Salvation? “Our Salvation is assured as long as we continue to exercise faith in Jesus Christ. Such faith is expressed in obedience to his leadings, will and commands [1 John 2:3-6]. Obedience as a free-will choice is a consequence of faith, and without it, faith dies. Our conversion inaugurates a journey during which we are being transformed into Christ’s likeness. Thus Salvation is neither a state to be preserved nor an insurance policy, which requires no further investment. It is the beginning of a pilgrimage with Christ.”
The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand; Salvation as a pilgrimage is a good analogy. It takes us from our initial contact with the Lord through to sanctification: “it was for [holiness] we were born and to fall short of this will be infinite, eternal loss, and doom us to an everlasting night of shame and contempt.” “Our walk with Him must be constant…or else we will seek for Him some day and not find Him.” We believe that 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 Salvation Army actually does then observe that a continuance in a state of Salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ.
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www.sheepspeak.com
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Soldiers' classes are on Wednesdays...
Sunday, June 13, 2010
...Jesus agrees that he is not like them and he tells them why
Now the Pharisees were really good at sacrifice. They did rightly believe in holiness. Amongst their number were probably some of the best of the religious people of their day (cf. Acts 22:1-5; Galatians 1:13,14). Maybe even better than us at times at following the scriptures: They tithed regularly. They read their scriptures. They come to the synagogue (church) regularly. They do not work on the Sabbath and they would certainly never go out for brunch on the Sabbath because that would cause someone else to work (Deuteronomy 5; Exodus 20). They are very careful about taking all that they do seriously and worshiping God by providing the appropriate sacrifices. If they were around today they most likely would always have the Christian radio station tuned into their car, would always be dressed appropriately and like I said before, they would be very careful to tithe and offer the appropriate sacrifices.
These are good guys in this regard but they are Jesus’ adversaries and here they are pointing out that Jesus by eating with ‘sinners’ is not like the Pharisees. Jesus agrees that he is not like them and he tells them why. He says the difference is that the Pharisees are not extending mercy. God loves people. The word ‘mercy’ here, ḥesed, means steadfast love or literally ‘covenant love.’[9] They are accusing Jesus of not being faithful to covenant observances because he eats with ‘sinners’ but Jesus is saying that he is faithful to God’s covenant percisely because he eats with ‘sinners’ and thus by extenstion then the Pharisees are unfaithful to this covenant love because even though they seem to do everything right, they are not showing mercy. Jesus says, quoting Hosea 6:6: “But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but ‘sinners.’”
The Pharisees: they did many things right in the eyes of their community. If around today, they certainly wouldn’t have been smokers or heavy drinkers; they would be embarrassed if they were ever caught speeding or if they accidentally bounced their cheque to the church but, knowing that all of this stuff is good that they do, Jesus says that that is not what is most important. God desires mercy and not sacrifice.
I remember once when I was visiting a good church many, many years ago; a street person came in...
read more from "I Desire Mercy Not Sacrifice": http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
These are good guys in this regard but they are Jesus’ adversaries and here they are pointing out that Jesus by eating with ‘sinners’ is not like the Pharisees. Jesus agrees that he is not like them and he tells them why. He says the difference is that the Pharisees are not extending mercy. God loves people. The word ‘mercy’ here, ḥesed, means steadfast love or literally ‘covenant love.’[9] They are accusing Jesus of not being faithful to covenant observances because he eats with ‘sinners’ but Jesus is saying that he is faithful to God’s covenant percisely because he eats with ‘sinners’ and thus by extenstion then the Pharisees are unfaithful to this covenant love because even though they seem to do everything right, they are not showing mercy. Jesus says, quoting Hosea 6:6: “But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but ‘sinners.’”
The Pharisees: they did many things right in the eyes of their community. If around today, they certainly wouldn’t have been smokers or heavy drinkers; they would be embarrassed if they were ever caught speeding or if they accidentally bounced their cheque to the church but, knowing that all of this stuff is good that they do, Jesus says that that is not what is most important. God desires mercy and not sacrifice.
I remember once when I was visiting a good church many, many years ago; a street person came in...
read more from "I Desire Mercy Not Sacrifice": http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
Saturday, June 12, 2010
I desire mercy, not sacrifice...
Presented to the Swift Current Corps, 13 June 2010
By Captain Michael Ramsay
Our scripture that we are looking at today comes from Matthew 9:13: “But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."”
I desire mercy…
Summer is on its way. Alvin has a great car. It is fancy. He has a Lincoln that he spent a lot of time fixing up himself. He came by the office the other day and took me for a cruise – on one of the rare days when it wasn’t raining. It is nice. He did a lot of work fixing it up. It sort of reminded me of my younger days. I remember when I was a teenager. I was blessed to be able to afford a car that I could fix up a little bit too. Here’s a picture of it… [click here]
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
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http://www.sheepspeak.com/
By Captain Michael Ramsay
Our scripture that we are looking at today comes from Matthew 9:13: “But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."”
I desire mercy…
Summer is on its way. Alvin has a great car. It is fancy. He has a Lincoln that he spent a lot of time fixing up himself. He came by the office the other day and took me for a cruise – on one of the rare days when it wasn’t raining. It is nice. He did a lot of work fixing it up. It sort of reminded me of my younger days. I remember when I was a teenager. I was blessed to be able to afford a car that I could fix up a little bit too. Here’s a picture of it… [click here]
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/06/matthew-913-i-desire-mercy-not.html
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http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Friday, June 11, 2010
the Lord worked on me with beautiful and forceful grace, calling me to become more creative and more disciplined in prayer (Munn, JAC 67)
Circles of Influence : A Creative Template for Prayer
by Lieut.-Colonel Richard Munn
God seems to work in certain discernable and recognizable patterns. From the stunning cadence of the seasons to the remarkable biological similarities in His creatures, yes, our God is a God of aesthetic stencil and order.
This also appears to be so in the meta-narrative of Scripture. For instance, He seems to delight in revealing His power in the motif of death and resurrection – the Valley of Dry Bones, Lazarus and supremely in Jesus. He communicates His essence in Light – the opening act of Creation, His guidance in the wilderness, and most sharply in Jesus, the Light of the World.
One of these divine patterns appears to be expanding circles. The overall sweep through scriptures moves from the solitary family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to the people of Israel to all people of the world. Jesus also applies the pattern working with a centrifugal force from the inner circle of Peter, James and John to the central 12 disciples to the greater 72 disciples. (Luke 10)
I believe this can provide you and me with a pattern for prayer.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article5-67.html
by Lieut.-Colonel Richard Munn
God seems to work in certain discernable and recognizable patterns. From the stunning cadence of the seasons to the remarkable biological similarities in His creatures, yes, our God is a God of aesthetic stencil and order.
This also appears to be so in the meta-narrative of Scripture. For instance, He seems to delight in revealing His power in the motif of death and resurrection – the Valley of Dry Bones, Lazarus and supremely in Jesus. He communicates His essence in Light – the opening act of Creation, His guidance in the wilderness, and most sharply in Jesus, the Light of the World.
One of these divine patterns appears to be expanding circles. The overall sweep through scriptures moves from the solitary family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to the people of Israel to all people of the world. Jesus also applies the pattern working with a centrifugal force from the inner circle of Peter, James and John to the central 12 disciples to the greater 72 disciples. (Luke 10)
I believe this can provide you and me with a pattern for prayer.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article5-67.html
Thursday, June 10, 2010
What's the best thing about being a Salvation Army officer?
from www.armybarmy.com
There is a book coming out soon on officership as vocational extremism. Here's a take from Captain Danielle Strickland:
What's the best thing about being a Salvation Army officer?
The best thing about being a Salvation Army officer is the way it frees me to be about Kingdom business. Every facet of Officership is about availability to God. My JOB is to listen and obey the Holy Spirit and to tell/demonstrate to everyone I can the love of Jesus.
It's an incredible opportunity to serve in that kind of capacity. I don't have to worry about 'paying the bills' or making decisions based on financial or social pressures. I'm completely liberated to keep my eyes on the prize of God's kingdom come.
Another amazing things about officership is the fellowship of the fight. I'm connected to global leaders in a covenant of love. This covenant manifests itself in every self-less act for God's kingdom all around the world through Officers in over 120 countries. Culture, language, economics and geography separate us YET we are bonded together in love through a covenant we share with God together. This is a very deep and rich way to do life - in a global community of covenanted warriors... together we win the world for Jesus!
The kingdom of God is at hand.
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www.sheepspeak.com
There is a book coming out soon on officership as vocational extremism. Here's a take from Captain Danielle Strickland:
What's the best thing about being a Salvation Army officer?
The best thing about being a Salvation Army officer is the way it frees me to be about Kingdom business. Every facet of Officership is about availability to God. My JOB is to listen and obey the Holy Spirit and to tell/demonstrate to everyone I can the love of Jesus.
It's an incredible opportunity to serve in that kind of capacity. I don't have to worry about 'paying the bills' or making decisions based on financial or social pressures. I'm completely liberated to keep my eyes on the prize of God's kingdom come.
Another amazing things about officership is the fellowship of the fight. I'm connected to global leaders in a covenant of love. This covenant manifests itself in every self-less act for God's kingdom all around the world through Officers in over 120 countries. Culture, language, economics and geography separate us YET we are bonded together in love through a covenant we share with God together. This is a very deep and rich way to do life - in a global community of covenanted warriors... together we win the world for Jesus!
The kingdom of God is at hand.
----
www.sheepspeak.com
MINOR BALL NIGHT -- STRIKE OUT HUNGER
The Swift Current Indians and the Swift Current Minor Baseball Association are pleased to present "SC Minor Ball Night" at the WMBL Indians game versus Melville this Thursday, June 10 2010.
Fans are encouraged to come on out for a celebration of baseball in our community, highlighted by last season’s Eastern Conference final matchup between the Swift Current Indians and the Melville Millionaires. ADMISSION TO THIS GAME WILL BE FREE FOR EVERYONE so attendees are encouraged to get there early, grab their seats, enjoy the pregame celebration of minor ball in Swift Current.
Also, in cooperation with the Salvation Army and Swift Current Minor Ball, we will conducting a food drive to help restock the Food Bank.
Items such as cereal, soup crackers, lunch items such as juice boxes, fruit cups, prepared pudding cups, granola bars, canned fruit, soup, canned vegetables, pasta, pasta sauce, canned tomatoes, toilet paper, laundry soap, bar soap and shampoo would all help.
The game will start at 7:05 PM.
http://www.scindians.ca/home.html
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www.sheepspeak.com
Fans are encouraged to come on out for a celebration of baseball in our community, highlighted by last season’s Eastern Conference final matchup between the Swift Current Indians and the Melville Millionaires. ADMISSION TO THIS GAME WILL BE FREE FOR EVERYONE so attendees are encouraged to get there early, grab their seats, enjoy the pregame celebration of minor ball in Swift Current.
Also, in cooperation with the Salvation Army and Swift Current Minor Ball, we will conducting a food drive to help restock the Food Bank.
Items such as cereal, soup crackers, lunch items such as juice boxes, fruit cups, prepared pudding cups, granola bars, canned fruit, soup, canned vegetables, pasta, pasta sauce, canned tomatoes, toilet paper, laundry soap, bar soap and shampoo would all help.
The game will start at 7:05 PM.
http://www.scindians.ca/home.html
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www.sheepspeak.com
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Canada is only meeting half of its United Nations commitments to help the world's poor....
Canada lags on UN poverty goals: aid groups
Last Updated: Tuesday, June 8, 2010 6:40 PM ET
CBC News
Canada is only meeting half of its United Nations commitments to help the world's poor, a coalition of aid groups says.
In a report to be released on Wednesday, Make Poverty History says that while Canada has made progress in tackling problems such as hunger and disease, it is falling behind when it comes to education and maternal health.
The benchmarks are part of the UN's Millennium Development Goals — to which Canada is a signatory.
The aid groups also warn that matters will only get worse now that Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Conservative government has frozen its spending for international development.
Make Poverty History says Canada ranks 14th among 23 developed countries when it comes to foreign aid as a percentage of national income. Canada is less than halfway to the UN agreed-upon level of 0.7 per cent of GDP, according to the groups.
Ahead of this month's G8 and G20 meetings in Ontario, the groups are urging Canada to take a leadership role on the international stage and encourage all developed countries to live up to the millennium goals.
Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/politics/story/2010/06/08/canada-un-millenium-development-goals.html#ixzz0qJPFGoku
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www.sheepspeak.com
Last Updated: Tuesday, June 8, 2010 6:40 PM ET
CBC News
Canada is only meeting half of its United Nations commitments to help the world's poor, a coalition of aid groups says.
In a report to be released on Wednesday, Make Poverty History says that while Canada has made progress in tackling problems such as hunger and disease, it is falling behind when it comes to education and maternal health.
The benchmarks are part of the UN's Millennium Development Goals — to which Canada is a signatory.
The aid groups also warn that matters will only get worse now that Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Conservative government has frozen its spending for international development.
Make Poverty History says Canada ranks 14th among 23 developed countries when it comes to foreign aid as a percentage of national income. Canada is less than halfway to the UN agreed-upon level of 0.7 per cent of GDP, according to the groups.
Ahead of this month's G8 and G20 meetings in Ontario, the groups are urging Canada to take a leadership role on the international stage and encourage all developed countries to live up to the millennium goals.
Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/politics/story/2010/06/08/canada-un-millenium-development-goals.html#ixzz0qJPFGoku
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www.sheepspeak.com
"The world worships youthfulness, and the Church, in many arenas, has followed suit. I demand a revolt. Okay not really a revolt" (Reardon, JAC 67)
Culture of Youth
by Major Amy Reardon
A sixteen–year–old girl sang Canada’s national anthem at the opening of the winter Olympics. That would have been fine, had she been one of the country’s most gifted vocalists. But though the girl’s singing was pleasant, it was far short of spectacular, and quite out of step with the rest of the breathtaking show.
I couldn’t help but feel that the reason this singer was featured had something to do with her age. More and more, children with talent are being thrust center stage. Everywhere you look, the message our society sends is that the young do it better, whatever “it” might be. In fact, however, the standard for excellence is sometimes lowered, because these young talents haven’t had full opportunity to develop their gifts. In addition, those performers with a few more miles on them, who have spent many years honing their skills, are sacrificed on the altar of youth. Their talents are invalid because their bodies are older; never mind the benefits of education, experience, etc.
My eleven-year–old son recently moaned that he will never be a celebrity because he’s almost twelve and isn’t a star yet...
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article4-67.html
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www.sheepspeak.com
by Major Amy Reardon
A sixteen–year–old girl sang Canada’s national anthem at the opening of the winter Olympics. That would have been fine, had she been one of the country’s most gifted vocalists. But though the girl’s singing was pleasant, it was far short of spectacular, and quite out of step with the rest of the breathtaking show.
I couldn’t help but feel that the reason this singer was featured had something to do with her age. More and more, children with talent are being thrust center stage. Everywhere you look, the message our society sends is that the young do it better, whatever “it” might be. In fact, however, the standard for excellence is sometimes lowered, because these young talents haven’t had full opportunity to develop their gifts. In addition, those performers with a few more miles on them, who have spent many years honing their skills, are sacrificed on the altar of youth. Their talents are invalid because their bodies are older; never mind the benefits of education, experience, etc.
My eleven-year–old son recently moaned that he will never be a celebrity because he’s almost twelve and isn’t a star yet...
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article4-67.html
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www.sheepspeak.com
Sunday, June 06, 2010
D-Day Memorial Service
June 6, 2010
RCL Branch #56
Swift Current
Invocation:
We assemble today to solemnly remember and to pay our respects not merely to an occasion, but even more to the lives of our comrades whose death we mourn but whose spirits still live on.
Let us pray: Almighty God. To paraphrase a now famous D-day prayer: Our soldiers, they were sore tried, by night and by day, without rest— until the victory was won. The darkness was rent by noise and flame. Men’s souls were shaken with the violence of war.
For those who served were drawn from the ways of peace. They fought not for the lust of conquest. They fought to end conquest; hoping to let justice arise, and tolerance and goodwill among all Thy people, yearning but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home.
Some, however, did not return to their home here but rather to their eternal home with Thee. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom. We are here today Lord to commemorate those who lived and died through the battles of D-day.
We dedicate these proceeding today, in your name, Amen.
Reading from John 12:23-26:
23And Jesus answered them, saying, the hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. 24Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone: but if it die, it brings forth much fruit.
25He that loves his life shall lose it; and he that hates his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. 26If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
27Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? No, for it is this very cause that I came unto this hour. 28Father, glorify thy name.
Benediction:
May we, as citizens, and as members of the Royal Canadian Legion be charged anew with the full set of duties and responsibilities to our country and to our organization. May we ever strive to uphold the principles of unselfish service, which led us to serve God and our country in the time of war and in a time of peace, so that we may continue to serve, even unto death.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
RCL Branch #56
Swift Current
Invocation:
We assemble today to solemnly remember and to pay our respects not merely to an occasion, but even more to the lives of our comrades whose death we mourn but whose spirits still live on.
Let us pray: Almighty God. To paraphrase a now famous D-day prayer: Our soldiers, they were sore tried, by night and by day, without rest— until the victory was won. The darkness was rent by noise and flame. Men’s souls were shaken with the violence of war.
For those who served were drawn from the ways of peace. They fought not for the lust of conquest. They fought to end conquest; hoping to let justice arise, and tolerance and goodwill among all Thy people, yearning but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home.
Some, however, did not return to their home here but rather to their eternal home with Thee. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom. We are here today Lord to commemorate those who lived and died through the battles of D-day.
We dedicate these proceeding today, in your name, Amen.
Reading from John 12:23-26:
23And Jesus answered them, saying, the hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. 24Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abides alone: but if it die, it brings forth much fruit.
25He that loves his life shall lose it; and he that hates his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. 26If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
27Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? No, for it is this very cause that I came unto this hour. 28Father, glorify thy name.
Benediction:
May we, as citizens, and as members of the Royal Canadian Legion be charged anew with the full set of duties and responsibilities to our country and to our organization. May we ever strive to uphold the principles of unselfish service, which led us to serve God and our country in the time of war and in a time of peace, so that we may continue to serve, even unto death.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Saturday, June 05, 2010
Why Should I Read the Bible?
By Captain Michael Ramsay
Nipawin Journal, February 2008.
My five year-old asks us every night if we can read the Bible to her since at Sunday school, not too long ago, the teacher sang with the children, “read your Bible, pray everyday and you’ll grow, grow, grow …” Sarah-Grace took this truth to heart and has been faithful in reminding us to read her Bible.
Reading the Bible has also been very important to me since I was in elementary school. I personally have tried to read my Bible everyday since I was ten or nine. I can’t imagine not reading my Bible regularly. It is exciting. It is transformative.
The very first doctrine of The Salvation Army, of which I am an Officer, states that, “the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God, and that they only constitute the Divine rule of Christian faith and practice.”
In Romans 1:16-17, Paul writes, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes... For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.’”
The gospel is contained in the Bible. The word ‘gospel’ (Gk: euangelion) itself means ‘good news’ or ‘good message’ (cf. Isa 40:9, 52:7). It is the whole Christian message. It is the information, from none other than God, that Jesus, God’s unique Son has become the spearhead of God’s ‘kingdom to come’ and the news that, in this new kingdom all that is bad, even sin and death themselves, have already been defeated.
The Bible is exciting. It is given by the inspiration of God himself and gives us examples and encouragements on how to live a life where we are truly free to serve God. It contains the good news that Jesus died, rose from the dead, and is coming back for us. The power of the gospel contained within can transform our lives completely as we accept the truth of Jesus’ gift of eternal life.
Why should we read our Bible? Well, we should read our Bible because as we do we will indeed “grow, grow, grow...”
www.sheepspeak.com
Nipawin Journal, February 2008.
My five year-old asks us every night if we can read the Bible to her since at Sunday school, not too long ago, the teacher sang with the children, “read your Bible, pray everyday and you’ll grow, grow, grow …” Sarah-Grace took this truth to heart and has been faithful in reminding us to read her Bible.
Reading the Bible has also been very important to me since I was in elementary school. I personally have tried to read my Bible everyday since I was ten or nine. I can’t imagine not reading my Bible regularly. It is exciting. It is transformative.
The very first doctrine of The Salvation Army, of which I am an Officer, states that, “the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God, and that they only constitute the Divine rule of Christian faith and practice.”
In Romans 1:16-17, Paul writes, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes... For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.’”
The gospel is contained in the Bible. The word ‘gospel’ (Gk: euangelion) itself means ‘good news’ or ‘good message’ (cf. Isa 40:9, 52:7). It is the whole Christian message. It is the information, from none other than God, that Jesus, God’s unique Son has become the spearhead of God’s ‘kingdom to come’ and the news that, in this new kingdom all that is bad, even sin and death themselves, have already been defeated.
The Bible is exciting. It is given by the inspiration of God himself and gives us examples and encouragements on how to live a life where we are truly free to serve God. It contains the good news that Jesus died, rose from the dead, and is coming back for us. The power of the gospel contained within can transform our lives completely as we accept the truth of Jesus’ gift of eternal life.
Why should we read our Bible? Well, we should read our Bible because as we do we will indeed “grow, grow, grow...”
www.sheepspeak.com
Friday, June 04, 2010
Salvation officers need the fire of Billy Graham, compassion of Mother Teresa, intellect of Albert Einstein, and energy of the ... (Shade,JAC 67)
JAC Online
At the Table
by Major JoAnn Shade
With a strong sense of a calling to serve the poor in the name of Christ, I enrolled in the Salvation Army’s training program for its officers at age twenty-one. We studied theology, church history, homiletics and Bible in preparation for our roles as pastors. But those who designed the training curriculum knew that we needed hard skills along with those theological underpinnings, as our roles would also involve administering this hybrid of church and social service agency. So we also had crash courses in bookkeeping, social services, management and Christian education, as well as classes that taught the men to fix a boiler, and showed the women how to set an attractive table, with the admonition to never put the ketchup bottle on the table – use a pretty dish instead.
While I strongly protested against...
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article3-67.html
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www.sheepspeak.com
At the Table
by Major JoAnn Shade
With a strong sense of a calling to serve the poor in the name of Christ, I enrolled in the Salvation Army’s training program for its officers at age twenty-one. We studied theology, church history, homiletics and Bible in preparation for our roles as pastors. But those who designed the training curriculum knew that we needed hard skills along with those theological underpinnings, as our roles would also involve administering this hybrid of church and social service agency. So we also had crash courses in bookkeeping, social services, management and Christian education, as well as classes that taught the men to fix a boiler, and showed the women how to set an attractive table, with the admonition to never put the ketchup bottle on the table – use a pretty dish instead.
While I strongly protested against...
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article3-67.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Thursday, June 03, 2010
nonviolent resistance is often more threatening to the powerful than violent resistance because it visibly undermines their claim to moral superiority
Some questions from www.Sojo.net:
Nonviolence and the Gaza Freedom Movement
by Nathan Schneider
06-02-2010
Three days have passed since the Israeli navy attacked an international Gaza Freedom Movement “Freedom Flotilla,” intent on breaking Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip, in international waters. The explosion of media coverage surrounding this makes it likely the highest-profile act of (supposedly) nonviolent resistance to occur in years. But the dust has yet to settle. The boats and the activists who were aboard them are still under Israeli control, and so also, therefore, is their story of what happened. As information comes in, here are some questions to keep in mind for thinking about this horrific event through the lens of nonviolence.
Were the activists really acting nonviolently?
There has been considerable controversy thus far about who provoked whom to the violence that finally ended in deaths aboard the flotilla ships. It appears as if some people aboard took matters into their own hands and attacked the Israeli soldiers. But many of those leading the mission were seasoned activists committed to and trained in nonviolence. Their primary cargo was humanitarian aid, and their purpose was to make a political point, not engage Israeli forces in combat. If fighting broke out when armed Israeli forces arrived that is to be regretted, but that should not be mistaken for the Gaza Freedom Movement’s intentions.
How are the mission’s success and failure being measured?
Some are going to look at this and say, “See, they tried a nonviolent approach, and it ended in violence. Therefore, the mission failed, and nonviolence doesn’t work.” It would be particularly troubling for those Palestinian activists who are thinking about trading violent for nonviolent methods to come to this conclusion. But nonviolent resistance always involves self-sacrifice on the part of those who struggle for justice. Though the tragedy in the loss of life is not to be downplayed, the flotilla has already proven successful in significant ways; people around the world, including influential leaders, have responded by condemning the Gaza blockade, and millions more have learned about the international movement to transform the conflict in the region.
Was the flotilla a mission of aid or activism?
Reports often describe the flotilla’s purpose as humanitarian aid. In turn, Israel offered to deliver the supplies to Gaza itself, precluding the need for the flotilla to finish its delivery. It is true that the ships carried humanitarian supplies. But the mission also had an explicitly political purpose, to resist what the activists understand as the injustice of the Gaza blockade.
Whose suffering is the media considering grievable? We already know that the Western media is more likely to concern itself with the deaths of Westerners than that of others. This is a tendency that we need to counteract. We should strive to treat all victims as if they are one of us and worthy of our deepest concern. We should also be attentive of the tendency to portray criticism of Palestinians and their advocates as plausible, and criticism of Israel as simply anti-Semitic.
What laws were violated, and why?
Laws were violated on both sides. Israel attacked a ship in international waters, in violation of international law. And the flotilla intended to break the limits imposed by Israel’s blockade. On the one hand, not all laws are equal; the blockade itself has been deemed illegal by a United Nations report last year. On the other, not all violations are equal; Israel violated international law out of convenience, with little or no expectation of consequences (since it hasn’t suffered them for past incidents), while the activists on the flotilla intended to flaunt the blockade as an act of conscience, exposing themselves to the consequences.
Who are the activists representing?
There is already a tendency in the reportage to point out the support of violent actors, such as Gaza’s Hamas regime, for the flotilla. Some will contend that the activists are therefore “supporters of terrorism.” Attempts are also being made to link the activists to extremists in Turkey, which the Turkish government reportedly has investigated and strenuously denies. Whatever the case may be, it’s important that we not let the activists’ actions be falsely conflated with those of others. Making such conflations are very much in the interests of those who would want to justify Israel’s disproportionate violence; nonviolent resistance is often more threatening to the powerful than violent resistance because it so visibly undermines their claim to moral superiority.
How is the official story being manipulated?
By conducting its own investigation before allowing any foreign journalists or authorities to participate, Israel is seeking to ensure that its version of events is the only version. The Israeli government has already been hurriedly trying to explain its own violence with allegations that the activists were armed and intent on delivering materials meant to be weaponized. If Israel were to plant weapons on the scene after the fact to distort the investigation, it would only be following the U.S.’s example in Iraq. Since this incident took place in international waters, involving people from around the world, a truly international investigation should take place immediately.
For now we can at least mourn the deaths of those killed on the ships, alongside those whose lives have been destroyed or ruined in the wider conflict, both Palestinian and Israeli. The refusal to tolerate and glorify violence, whether conducted by the powers that be or the disempowered, is the first step toward bringing about nonviolent change.
Nathan Schneider writes about religion, reason, and violence for publications including The Boston Globe, Commonweal, Seed, Religion Dispatches, AlterNet, and others. He is also an editor at Killing the Buddha. Visit his Web site at TheRowBoat.com. This article appears courtesy of a partnership with Waging Nonviolence.
+Read more about nonviolence in the Middle East from sojo.net.
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
We believe that in the person of Jesus Christ the Divine and human natures are united, so that he is truly and properly God and truly and properly man
After centuries of debate, which sometimes led to heresy, the development of the Chalcedonian definition (451AD) effectively settled the question of the understanding of Christ’s person until modern times.
Following the holy Fathers we teach with one voice that the Son [of God] and our Lord Jesus Christ is to be confessed as one and the same [Person], that he is perfect in Godhead and perfect in manhood, very God and very man, of a reasonable soul and [human] body consisting, consubstantial with the Father as touching his Godhead, and consubstantial with us as touching his manhood; made in all things like unto us, sin only excepted; This one and the same Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son [of God] must be confessed to be in two natures, unconfusedly, immutably, indivisibly, inseparably [united], and that without the distinction of natures being taken away by such union, but rather the peculiar property of each nature being preserved and being united in one Person and subsistence, not separated or divided into two persons, but one and the same Son and only-begotten, God the Word, our Lord Jesus Christ, as the Prophets of old time have spoken concerning him, and as the Lord Jesus Christ hath taught us, and as the Creed of the Fathers hath delivered to us.
This is described in theological terms as hypostatic union – from the Greek hypostasis which means ‘person’. So it is a union of persons. The two natures can be distinguished, but not separated, because they exist in perfect unity.
from the 2010 version of the Handbook of Doctrine (p.92)
available on-line: http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/www_sa.nsf/50f73564cddae39480256cf4005d2262/20ed848cf00d99e28025770400056c19/$FILE/handbook%20_of_doctrine.pdf
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www.sheepspeak.com
Following the holy Fathers we teach with one voice that the Son [of God] and our Lord Jesus Christ is to be confessed as one and the same [Person], that he is perfect in Godhead and perfect in manhood, very God and very man, of a reasonable soul and [human] body consisting, consubstantial with the Father as touching his Godhead, and consubstantial with us as touching his manhood; made in all things like unto us, sin only excepted; This one and the same Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son [of God] must be confessed to be in two natures, unconfusedly, immutably, indivisibly, inseparably [united], and that without the distinction of natures being taken away by such union, but rather the peculiar property of each nature being preserved and being united in one Person and subsistence, not separated or divided into two persons, but one and the same Son and only-begotten, God the Word, our Lord Jesus Christ, as the Prophets of old time have spoken concerning him, and as the Lord Jesus Christ hath taught us, and as the Creed of the Fathers hath delivered to us.
This is described in theological terms as hypostatic union – from the Greek hypostasis which means ‘person’. So it is a union of persons. The two natures can be distinguished, but not separated, because they exist in perfect unity.
from the 2010 version of the Handbook of Doctrine (p.92)
available on-line: http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/www_sa.nsf/50f73564cddae39480256cf4005d2262/20ed848cf00d99e28025770400056c19/$FILE/handbook%20_of_doctrine.pdf
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www.sheepspeak.com
"If you were born in the West, you were born into privilege at the expense of others." (Pedlar, JAC 67)
Being Faithful with Dishonest Wealth: Stewardship in the Face of Global Poverty
By James Pedlar
It is easy to become overwhelmed when we consider the immense nature of global economic inequality. The disparities are so great that one cannot help but be repulsed, and, as with anything which is repulsing, we are tempted to simply turn away and focus on more “pleasant” considerations. It is certain that the global capitalist economic system is the source of much of this inequality, or at least seems to amplify and perpetuate existing inequalities. What is more, Christians who live in the West are implicated in this process, simply by virtue of participating in the economic life of their own societal setting. Even those of us who make efforts to buy ethically and use fair trade products as much as possible cannot completely remove ourselves from the system which produces great excess for some and great suffering for others. If you were born in the West, you were born into privilege at the expense of others. How should the church respond to this situation? What are we to do in the face of an economic system which is built on exploitation? Should we focus our efforts on systemic and revolutionary change, or work “within the system”?
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article2-67.html
By James Pedlar
It is easy to become overwhelmed when we consider the immense nature of global economic inequality. The disparities are so great that one cannot help but be repulsed, and, as with anything which is repulsing, we are tempted to simply turn away and focus on more “pleasant” considerations. It is certain that the global capitalist economic system is the source of much of this inequality, or at least seems to amplify and perpetuate existing inequalities. What is more, Christians who live in the West are implicated in this process, simply by virtue of participating in the economic life of their own societal setting. Even those of us who make efforts to buy ethically and use fair trade products as much as possible cannot completely remove ourselves from the system which produces great excess for some and great suffering for others. If you were born in the West, you were born into privilege at the expense of others. How should the church respond to this situation? What are we to do in the face of an economic system which is built on exploitation? Should we focus our efforts on systemic and revolutionary change, or work “within the system”?
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article2-67.html
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
JAC is BACk
April - May 2010 Issue # 67
Editor, Major Stephen Court
Being Faithful with Dishonest Wealth: Stewardship in the Face of Global Poverty
James PedlarAt the Table
Major JoAnn Shade
Major Amy Reardon
Lieut.-Colonel Richard Munn
Captain Danielle Strickland
St. Francis: The Wild Side of Mission
Cadet James Thompson
Cadet Matthew Kean
Lieut.-Colonel Miriam Gluyas
Captain Michael Ramsay
Commissioner Wesley Harris
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