Mary of Bethany

Early in The Salvation Army’s development, the Corps, or church, formed by soldiers and supporters was led by local leadership - Corps Sergeants Major, Corps Secretaries, Corps Treasurers and the like. The role of a Salvation Army Officer was more that of a travelling evangelist. They would journey from town to town, preaching the Gospel at meetings organised by local corps. By the 1940s when my Nanna was commissioned, officers had become more settled and would often stay in one place for 9 months! This trend has continued, with the role of a Salvation Army officer becoming less and less that of a travelling preacher, and more that of a local pastor or leader. It is not uncommon now to see officers staying for 5 years in one appointment. As a result, when “farewell orders” are received, both officers and church experience significant fear, uncertainty and disappointment (even though this may be mixed with excitement about the new future for the officer and the Corps). Strong and effective working relationships and supports are broken and new ones need to be forged. I am not moving this year but more than ever I am conscious of the impact of this system on so many lives. The question of how we respond and react to circumstances we do not like, circumstances that make us uncomfortable or fearful, circumstances over which we have no control, is at the heart of our message this week.

Scripture References: Genesis 16:1-6, Proverbs 3:5-6

From Series: Intentional Living | More Messages from Phil Inglis | Download Audio

From Series: "Intentional Living"