Faith in a Changed World
Antony Mugford October 2020
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The Lord will keep you from all harm he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121
© Antony Mugford First edition compiled and edited by David White Published by BrancoPrint © Majors Antony & Fiona Mugford The Salvation Army Westgate Guisborough TS14 6AW https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/guisborough-citadel
01 November 2020
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My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
I lift up my eyes to the hills where does my help come from?
Prologue In 2020 the whole world was struck with Coronavirus pandemic that originated in Wuhan, China. Countries were a ected in every way of life as lockdowns were advised and imposed, meaning that normal life could not continue. Business, travel, and family life were severely curtailed with impact on so many activities that were just taken for granted. All expressions of Faith ceased in the traditional rituals and formats; impacting greatly on shared fellowship. Fortunately technolo y was available, and expanded, that allowed some virtual contact during social distancing. New expressions of Faith service blossomed not only to the individual, regional, national and, indeed, international congregations but, perhaps more importantly, also to the many new contacts within the wider communities. The world-wide Salvation Army took virtual reality to its heart. Majors Antony and Fiona Mugford, the Commanding O cers of Guisborough Citadel, UK grasped this opportunity with daily ministry to both the Corps Fellowship and a much wider community via Facebook and YouTube; reaching many hundreds of people. Each Sunday, and other special Christian occasions, online services were also produced. This booklet is a collection of those daily “letters" shared to an audience that remarkably grew exponentially; thus contacting, and helping, many hundreds of people during the Coronavirus lockdown. What an opportunity of witness these ‘letters’ proved to be! We can only hope and pray that the short-term bene t will lead to a longer-term commitment and blessing. David White
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Sunday services
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ach Sunday, rather than having another reading, Majors Antony and Fiona lead online worship, Together in Worship.
These services including Good Friday were added to the Guisborough Salvation Army Church Youtube channel and are all still available; the links being: Sunday 29 March https://youtu.be/odOTyJm9Zdk
Sunday 05 July
https://youtu.be/zTgUJCQ1Zmg
Sunday 05 April https://youtu.be/NPog17ifg1Q
Sunday 12 July
https://youtu.be/P66ecteLpR4
Friday 10 April
https://youtu.be/Iw5RMOH31wY
Sunday 19 July
https://youtu.be/kkiDXn2gZ0w
Sunday 12 April
https://youtu.be/rT_hDb0hVrU
Sunday 26 July
https://youtu.be/FXoJcnctB4k
Sunday 19 April https://youtu.be/i1xPyZaCaP4
Sunday 02 Aug
https://youtu.be/VOyQAKXTKBQ
Sunday 26 April https://youtu.be/LSTWnPwR0rI
Sunday 30 Aug
https://youtu.be/Ub3aB5zm79g
Sunday 03 May
https://youtu.be/Wq7HW__ODDI
Sunday 06 Sept https://YouTube.be/uH_BvCDjC61
Sunday 10 May
https://youtu.be/kLCOtac ypo
Sunday 13 Sept
https://youtu.be/e2Kelrlmevo
Sunday 17 May
https://youtu.be/5st0tT1mTKU
Sunday 20 Sept
https://youtu.be/AskEbymbPml
Sunday 24 May
https://youtu.be/UkONp8OL0io
Sunday 27 Sept
https://youtu.be/o3jzHxf-n94
Sunday 31 May
https://youtu.be/t8kzJcsoNOw
Sunday 04 Oct
https://youtu.be/ltE4MPBnuZU
Sunday 07 June
https://youtu.be/bUkmshG9ktQ
Sunday 11 Oct
https://youtu.be/nr3ON8ldxLo
Sunday 14 June
https://youtu.be/2U5BemQMD9s
Sunday 18 Oct
https://youtu.be/qC3D1ml76sQ
Sunday 21 June
https://youtu.be/r2bUU8JZ_gA
Sunday 25 Oct
Territorial Congress (see below)
Sunday 28 June
https://youtu.be/wDH2cTBnTX0
‘LIGHT, LIFE, LOVE’ WAS THE INSPIRING THEME AND FOCUS OF THE SALVATION ARMY’S TERRITORIAL CONGRESS SATURDAY 24 AND SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER 2020. With Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham supported by Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill. There was no Together in Worship on Sunday 24 October, so we invite you to watch the Congress Youtube Saturday and Sunday meetings and share with others seeking to grow in their faith and be equipped to share the good news of God’s love in their lives and local communities. Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill chose the inspiring theme for the Congress weekend after reflecting on the words of General Albert Osborn, found in The Salvation Army Song Book (number 742): Light, life and love are in that healing fountain. All I require to cleanse me and restore, Flow through my soul, redeem its desert places And make a garden there for the Lord I adore. Commissioner Anthony says: “Light, life and love are powerful words that will be reflected in many ways across the weekend. With so much uncertainty in our world, our congress will be an opportunity to be refreshed in God’s presence as we worship, pray and study his word. There will be time to give thanks for who and where we are as a church and to mobilise and equip us for being part of God's plan for his Kingdom here and now. “We are called to be a Salvation Army where God is glori ied and visibly at work, shaping us into disciples of Jesus Christ. If you are ready to ind out more about this life then share in the Congress. And share it with others, too! “Be ready to receive and be open to the speaking of the Spirit. Congress really is a life-changing opportunity to deepen our relationship with God and to introduce someone to the gospel message for the irst time. It is exciting to look ahead and imagine what God has in store!" https://www.youtube.com/user/salvationarmyvideo
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1 October 2020
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ello everyone, welcome to October! In my mind October is the month of harvest festivals (though some observe it at the end of September). I love this time of year. Autumn is a month of changing colours, the season of 'mists and mellow fruitfulness', according to poet John Keats. Yes, harvest festivals are part of October. We celebrate a socially distanced harvest of course this Sunday with some good songs, so please join us. One song we will sing is Come ye thankful people come. And as well as the theme of 'all is safely gathered in', it introduces the traditional harvest theme of the nal harvest when Jesus returns: 'even so, Lord, quickly come...' It's a longed-for day, when as promised throughout the Bible, the Lord will come and bring in his kingdom of peace and righteousness to the world. Jesus told the disciples to watch for the signs of his coming, to lift up their heads, to watch and pray, for their redemption draws nigh. Of course we don't know when, we don't speculate, but we do expect him one day. And there's an intriguing verse in Scripture that tells us 'Every eye will see him' (Revelation 1:7). Jesus will come visibly, personally, suddenly. Oh what a day that will be. Job said, 'I will see him with my own eyes, how my heart yearns within me!' I was thinking however how we've been given a gift in advance of that wonderful and awesome day. As I write these daily thoughts, and as the church itself has suddenly gone online and is spreading the message of Jesus on the internet, through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and all the other 'platforms', it's as if here and now 'every eye' is able to see Jesus in a way that 25 years ago was never even dreamed about. What an opportunity! When I was a young o cer, publicity was mostly printed and hand-delivered, or you had to hear messages in person at a meeting. There was no broadcasting videos or pictures unless it was a TV programme like Songs of Praise; but Oh! How suddenly even the smallest church is virtually broadcasting to the world! Even daily thoughts like these are going round the world. Every eye can see Jesus. Who'd have thought? Please pray for this daily ministry of the word, pray for Together in Worship each Sunday. Pray for all the online ministries of the churches around this world, that every eye will indeed have an opportunity to 'see Jesus', and that people in even the remotest places will come to know and love him. God bless you today đ&#x;™? Keep on believing, keep your faith high despite everything.
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2 October 2020
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orning everyone, happy Friday! đ&#x;™‚
Let's talk about toilet rolls... No, seriously. Nearly 7 months ago now you couldn't buy toilet rolls for love nor money. Do you remember? Everyone started panic buying in the middle of March, whole aisles were cleared, shelves were empty. Facebook was lled with shocked people posting photos of people staring at nothing, or shaming-pictures of people with a shopping trolley piled with toilet rolls: "Do you know this sel sh person!?" It was quite bizarre. We went on holiday to Devon the week before lockdown and Tesco's there was just the same. And add to that the total absence of hand sanitiser gel and paracetamol!!! This was a very strange phenomenon. And then last week, with rumoured extra lockdowns it happened again. For one day! Pictures appeared: There are no toilet rolls in Asda, Tesco, Morrisons!!!! And it was true. Here in Guisborough there was just a few lonely packets in the top shelf. Here we go again! But you will know it didn't last. The next day there was an abundant supply. Literally, what a relief! And there was loads of paracetamol too. I think people were fed up of panicking. They saw that the last time was unnecessary - I bet there are people still using the store they hoarded away in March! What was the point? Why the worry? Yes, we are concerned about the possibility of lockdowns increasing, we're concerned about illness among the vulnerable especially. Many are understandably anxious about employment. So what is our response? Well panic is not helpful - whether it's rushing out to buy a year's supply of toilet roll, or whether it's becoming very anxious about our situation. The Bible says, 'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' (Philippians 4:6,7) The reason we can be peaceful instead of being in a panic can be found in a verse that's often used at harvest time. It tells us that God has riches. It tells us that God has a warehouse that can out-supply any run on stock, as it were, any panic buying. He has 'riches in Glory' and whatever is needed he can supply to the trusting, praying heart. 'Keep on asking,' said Jesus, 'and you will receive.' An old song says, 'Thou art coming to a King, LARGE petitions with thee bring.' Father, forgive me for not always realising how great your provision is, how generous you are. I confess that I worry, but in love you remind me that you can meet all my needs according to your riches. Help me Lord always to remember. Your gift of peace is all that I long for. So, in my need, and in my circumstances I would claim that peace from you. In prayer I o er you my need, I bring my request and ask Lord that you answer my prayer according to your store of riches. Give me faith to believe and a trusting heart to wait for your answer. Thank you Lord. Amen. Have a good day everyone. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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orning everybody.It's the weekend again! And it's Song Saturday.
This is where we feature a song that will be used in tomorrow's
Together in Worship. It’s Harvest tomorrow and we will be
singing harvest hymns, but here is a song that's 'only' 63 years old and isn't really a harvest hymn, although it does mention harvest in the lyrics. The Wonder Of It All is a song written by George Beverly Shea. He was a very famous and popular Gospel singer in the United States from the 1920s onwards and would often accompany Billy Graham on his preaching tours. On one of these tours they were on a ship sailing to Scotland from the US. A passenger discovered who he was and asked where he was going. George replied that he was going to sing at a large Gospel rally and explained just what happened in one of these huge meetings. When he tried to describe to his fellow passenger what it was like to see crowds of people giving their lives to Jesus, he just couldn't nd the words. Eventually he said, "What happens never becomes commonplace... watching people by the hundreds come forward... Oh, if you could just see the wonder of it all." "I think I should", replied the passenger - we are not told if he ever went to a Billy Graham rally; I would like to think he did and there found Jesus as his Saviour. George went back to his cabin and thought about his conversation and the phrase he had used: 'If you could just see the wonder of it all," and there, on the ship, he wrote this very simple Gospel song: There’s the wonder of sunset at evening, The wonder as sunrise I see; But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul is the wonder that God loves me.
There’s the wonder of springtime and harvest, The sky, the stars, the sun, But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul is a wonder that’s only begun.
O the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me. O the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me.
George Beverly Shea, Š 1956, 1957 Word Music
Whenever I sing this song - and I've only known of it for the last 5 years - I always think of that line, 'the wonder of it all just to think that God loves me.' Can there be anything more wonderful than that? To know that the One who created me and formed me; the one who knows my past, my present and my future, my words, attitudes and actions, loves me still? It is almost too wonderful to consider. Tomorrow, why not join us in worship; to praise God for the harvest, but also to sing George Shea's song for yourself. Realise once more the wonder of it all - to know that God loves you. See you tomorrow from 10am for Together in Worship here on Facebook, from the Guisborough Salvation Army Youtube page. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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3 October 2020
5 October 2020
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orning all from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
One of the big features of life at the moment that covers our features (excuse the pun) is our face masks. Whether it's the disposable ones, black cloth, home made, or designer ones with logos, pictures, even slogans. Whatever style you go for the face covering is required, compulsory and controversial! Shops and other establishments display signs that in a friendly manner, tell us, 'Please wear your face covering'. One I saw helpfully advised, 'If you don't have a face coverings please speak to a member of sta ', who presumably would have a spare to provide. I've seen some which, in direct language, insist: 'No mask, no entry!' Rude. Well, we've all had to return to the house to get our forgotten mask two minutes after walking towards the shops...oh, just us then? đ&#x;˜ The other night a friend and I drove 5 minutes to a take away only to realise when we got there neither of us had a mask. What to do? Everyone queuing had one, the sign on the door required the wearing one. So I did what I've never done before: opened the door to a nearby convenience store and called out to the young chap behind the till: 'Have you got any masks?' Three minutes later and ÂŁ4 poorer we stood for a mere 30 seconds in new masks in the takeaway to collect our pre-ordered food. A long story that reminded me of the old Bible story I learned as a child about the men who went to a wedding but weren't allowed in because they had no wedding garments on. If Jesus were telling the story now, would he have talked about face masks? The Bible speaks a lot about being dressed in symbolic white robes in Heaven. You'll be given one there, or you need to wear one now in order to go there. The old song says: In white, in white, walking with Jesus in white... A more modern song says, about the people in Heaven: And none will ask what they have been, Provided that their robes are clean... You see, in the Bible a clean or white robe is a symbol of being prepared for Heaven, and of being forgiven. It's a symbol of living life here and now by faith in God, and knowing that he has made our heart new by his grace and forgiveness. To be in Heaven we have to have, not a mask (thankfully) but a robe. One of my favourite 'Army' songs says: A robe of white, a crown of gold, A harp, a home, a mansion fair, A victor's palm, a joy untold, Are mine when I get there. The truth it all points to is that Jesus makes the heart clean. Forgiveness is available to all, grace is a gift. We can walk in white robes! And as with a mask, if you don't have one, just ask! Have a great day everyone! God bless you đ&#x;™?
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6 October 2020
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ood morning everyone. A ne day seems to be ahead of us.
If you're older than me you might remember the 1960s TV programme The Prisoner. I'm far too young! Apparently a famous phrase was "I am not a number." I've heard people say that a few times when referring to how we are known to the authorities - NI number, driving licence number, passport, bank account and PIN number. Even buying a McDonald's you're called forward by number to collect your burger... The truth is we are known by number and we are included, counted in numbers. We have seen over the last week or so that a big mistake was made in the reckoning of how many people were testing positive with Covid-19. I noticed it the other day because I see a daily graph of numbers and one day the number doubled! We discovered that somehow a week's worth of daily gures had been missed o the spreadsheet. All recti ed now. It does show that care needs to be taken with numbers, not least because each number represents a person, a life. We are valuable individuals, even if we are counted amongst a crowd or on a spreadsheet. That sense of being an individual lies at the heart of people saying "I am not a number!" But, we can also say that numbers are important: the Bible is full of numbers; in fact there's a whole book in the Bible dedicated to counting people. And it's entitled, unsurprisingly, 'Numbers'. Jesus chose 12 disciples. He sent out 72 to preach the Gospel. A crowd of 500 saw the risen Jesus. There were 120 in the upper room at Pentecost, and on that same day 3000 people came to believe in Jesus! For some reason numbers are important and God invites us all 'to be in that number when the saints go marching in'. Remember yesterday I spoke about white robes? Here's another verse that mentions people in Heaven wearing them, and it seems that even God had given up counting, there are so many gathered there: "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands." (Revelation 7 v 9) What a crowd! Heaven will be a place of community, of fellowship, of togetherness. The fact that the numbers cannot be counted shows the wideness of God's grace and his welcoming love. Our prayer is that you too will accept his invitation and be part of that great number - however many there are! Have a lovely day. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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7 October 2020
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ello everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
How do you pray? I once heard some good advice: 'Pray as you can, not as you can't'. At rst glance it sounds a little trite but actually it's quite a liberating thought. Prayers will use words very often, of course, but there's no set pattern or form of words that we have to use. We can pray in a way that feels natural to us. I know there are those many Christians who each day will take out a prayer book and will read the daily o ce, the litur y for that day. There are beautiful words there. That's not so di erent to Salvation Army people who will open their song book and read a devotional song, or maybe more than one. For both types of people using the words of others can be extremely helpful. Some people will turn to the Psalms and use those words as their prayer - so much richness of thought and experience there. Some will talk to God as I've mentioned before in these daily thoughts 'as a friend speaks with a friend.' It's natural, conversational, but no less reverent than using a prayer book. Maybe your prayer time will involve music. In the Salvation Army we have so much music and song that we can sit and listen to, and be blessed. Or have you tried silence? Just sitting there with a co ee, watching the trees, listening to the birds, seeing the clouds move. I heard a story once of a priest who walked through his church and noticed a man sitting, just staring at the cruci x. He went about his tasks and came back to see the man still sitting there, staring at the cross. He went and sat next to him and gently asked what he was doing. The man replied, 'I look at him, he looks at me.' That, for the man, was his prayer. He was simply xing his gaze on the cruci ed Jesus. And that's what prayer is all about: no set words, not speci c place or time, no litur y or even correct vocabulary; just you and him. Pray as you can, not as you can't. But let Jesus be the focus. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in his wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.
Keep your eyes upon Jesus, Let nobody else take his place, So that hour by hour you may know his power, till at last you have run the great race.
God bless you today in your prayers and in everything you do. đ&#x;™?
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ello again everyone, a very good morning to you all!
Are you a morning person? Some people leap out of bed ready to face the day and almost expecting the day to catch up with them! Others of us pray for 10 minutes more under the duvet. I knew someone who liked to say he never came out of his house until the street had had an airing. In other words, never before mid morning. Many of us have morning rituals - for me it's a mug of co ee and sitting in silence. For others it's taking the dog out or taking a quick walk around the garden. I was speaking to a lady the other day who is up and out getting the morning paper as soon as the shop is open. Of course, for many it's rushing around getting the children ready for school or getting ready to go to work... Many people, if their morning is not too hectic, will nd a moment to pray. For them the morning is an opportunity to pause and give thanks for the new day, to pray for the day ahead, to make a recommitment to God. The Bible speaks a lot about morning prayer: "In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice." We read, "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went o to a solitary place, where he prayed." We don't all have the luxury of time and space to do that - or perhaps the desire, let's be honest; it's not a requirement to pray in the dark! - but the example Jesus set, the principle to follow, is to pray rst before all else. It's not an instruction, a regulation, but it's good advice. Let prayer be part of the morning routine. Let it be a thought turned heavenward at least, a moment of becoming aware of God. It might accompany the rst co ee, the walking with the dog, the drive to work. A lovely verse from Psalm 143 v 8 says, Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. What a gift we have each morning to consider again the love God has for us and to spend some minutes of that rst hour with him. New every morning is the love our wakening and uprising prove; through sleep and darkness safely brought, restored to life and power and thought.
The trivial round, the common task, will furnish all we need to ask, room to deny ourselves, a road to bring us daily nearer God.
If on our daily course our mind be set to hallow all we nd, new treasures still, of countless price, God will provide for sacri ce.
Only, O Lord, in thy dear love t us for perfect rest above; and help us, this and every day, to live more nearly as we pray.
Old friends, old scenes will lovelier be as more of Heaven in each we see; Some softening gleam of love and prayer shall dawn on every cross and care. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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8 October 2020
9 October 2020
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ood morning everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
Actually, I could just as properly say 'Good evening', because although many do read these daily thoughts in the morning, there are those of you who actually turn to them in the evening. The members of the Salvation Army in Guisborough get a printed version of these readings each month and I've been told that it's the evening when time is made by some to sit and read and pray. So if that's you, I hope you had a good day today. Of course, wherever you are it could be any time; and that's the beauty of knowing God and being in friendship with him. We can turn to him at all times, but there's something very bene cial in setting aside a regular time, creating a pattern for prayer. I would say that is especially true in these strange times when there are no public meetings to attend at the Army. The verse we look at today seems to me to be that of a man whose thoughts are turning to the evening worship in the Jewish temple far away in Jerusalem. He can't be there but he wants his evening prayer to be joined with the worship in that great building: 'May my prayer be counted as incense before you; the lifting up of my hands as the evening o ering.' It's a lovely thought; that as we pray in an evening our prayers are rising like incense to God. If we could see it, we would see houses here and there where a sweet smelling incense is rising heavenward as prayers of thanksgiving are o ered for the day just gone. Or they might be prayers of penitence for wrongs done, prayers o ered for the health of a loved one. As the night comes, the prayers might be for the day that lies ahead; for grace, for strength, or for a new beginning after the glad passing of a day that didn't go well. An evening prayer can be a time of healing, of seeking for peace, for o ering thanks. It closes the day well and entrusts the one who prays to the love and protection of our God who neither slumbers nor sleeps. So whether you are waking to a new day or about to rest for the night, may the peace of God be yours. Now the day is over, Night is drawing nigh, Shadows of the evening Steal across the sky.
When the morning wakens, Then may I arise Pure, and fresh, and sinless In Thy holy eyes.
Jesus, give the weary Calm and sweet repose; With Thy tend'rest blessing May our eyelids close.
God bless you đ&#x;™?
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10 October 2020
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orning all! It's the weekend again and it's Song Saturday when we feature one of the songs or hymns
that will be used in tomorrow's Together in Worship.
This week it's a Salvation Army song with a marriage of beautiful words and a lovely tune, both by one of our past Generals, Albert Orsborn. He was called the 'Poet General' because he wrote literally hundreds of songs for use in services and meetings, many of them still sung today. It must be wonderful to have a talent with words, to be able to express personal experience, emotion, desire and faith in words that speak not just to the mind but the soul as well. One might be forgiven for believing that all these poems and songs were divinely inspired, and came from Heaven as gifts. But I guess every poet, every writer, every preacher indeed, will tell you that it takes concentration and hard work to nd the right words. Having said that, the song we will use tomorrow - I Know Thee Who Thou Art was no ordinary poem because it was created out of a terrible experience of grief; in his words 'it grew out of the ploughshare of su ering', A biographer wrote that the General had 'su ered a severe bereavement,' recording that Orsborn wrote: 'I have been permitted to endure extremely heavy and bitter sorrows.' I think that what we see then in the song that he has left us is a remarkable testimony to his faith; who do we know who could write such faith- lled words as these when in the depths of grief? I've often said to people in moments of sorrow that this is where faith becomes real. When we walk through that valley, through the shadows or in that storm, our faith is then proved to be su cient or it fails utterly. The General wrote a song that is lled with praise and certain hope, and I can tell you that when you read the fourth verse you will be reading its author's favourite verse: he said he often sang it to himself; and Salvationists the world over look at this song and the music Orsborn wrote especially for it, and agree that this is one of the Army's most sacred and inspirational songs. I know you'll appreciate these words, and when you listen tomorrow to the service you will hear the most beautiful piano arrangement of the melody; I know you will be blessed. I know thee who thou art, And what thy healing name; For when my fainting heart the burden nigh o'ercame, I saw thy footprints on my road where lately passed the Son of God.
Beside thee as I walk, I will delight in thee, In sweet communion talk of all thou art to me; The beauty of thy face behold and know thy mercies manifold.
Thy name is joined with mine by every human tie, And my new name is thine, A child of God am I; And never more alone, since thou art on the road beside me now.
Let nothing draw me back or turn my heart from thee, But by the Calvary track bring me at last to see the courts of God, that city fair, And nd my name is written there.
How can anyone have such faith? Simply this: he trusted in Jesus. And that same faith is given to all who believe. God bless you. See you tomorrow from 10am.
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12 October 2020
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ello everybody. It's good to start a new week with you.
It's 5:42 as I start writing this and I've been awake since 4:00. Mind you, I slept a lot yesterday due to illness; in fact when I did get up I was ordered back to bed by Sta Nurse Major Fiona! So, I'm writing this now because I'll probably go into sleep... Illness is a time when many prayers are o ered. And when illness is longer than a 24 hour thing, prayer is valued more than ever. We often think of those who spend much time in bed whether in hospital, in care, or at home. We might think of relatives, it might be we ourselves who spend time in bed for long periods. In these present times of restrictions there has been the added burden of reduced visitation - even no visiting at all. That's hard to bear. Illness can be a lonely experience, and so an extra prayer and thought goes to those who haven't been able to hold the hand of a loved one. Of course, many are able to be together and illness is borne easier when others are there. As I have been trying to sleep that verse of the Bible came to me, about sleeping in peace and dwelling in safety. How? Simply because of the presence of the Lord. There's a lovely verse in Psalm 121 that I know many of you have come to appreciate: "My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep." To know that God watches over us even as we sleep is a comforting thing. In times of illness, loneliness, stress and depression, when often we feel isolated, we can rest assured that Jesus is there; a prayer away. And even at times when we can't feel his presence, we can be encouraged to hold on to the thought that he really is there, even if as the song says, he is 'standing somewhere in the shadows'. So, I hope you are feeling well today. But if not, may God have a special blessing for you, and even if you have to rest or sleep, may you know his peace. Heavenly Father I am so grateful that you know when I sit and when I rise. You know my secret thoughts, my private feelings. You know my fears, my joys, and hear my prayers. Lord, even in illness you draw near to me or those I care about. My prayer is for those today who feel pain, who undergo treatment, or who are in ill health at home. May they always feel your peace and be aware of your loving presence. I pray for those who care, who watch, who look after a loved one. May they too be encouraged and strengthened by your presence. And I would pray for myself too that in good health or not so good health, I will always have faith in you, to feel assured, loved and blessed. Thank you Lord that even as I sleep you watch over me. Amen. God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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13 October 2020
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ood morning to you all đ&#x;™‚
I think many of us possibly watched the news yesterday with a sigh. None of us are surprised however at the new restrictions the rise in infections, and more worryingly the rise in hospital admissions have led many to assume that further restrictions would follow. And so here we are: in our part of the UK our restrictions are greater from tomorrow, though thankfully we're not in the top tier. All this now, after 7 months, is beginning to tell on the patience of the country. I'm not talking about those who merely want freedom to socialise, but about the e ects on families and loved ones, on relationships and the ability to be with one another. People speak very much about the e ects on the well-being of people who su er with mental health issues. It should be said that these issues can a ect us all, and these months might bring out or cause stresses that others never thought possible. If you yourself are a ected please talk to a friend, a relative and Fiona and I really are here to listen. As Christian people we are not immune to the stresses and concerns of life, but what a joy it is to have a family of faith that can respond - so please reach out and let people know you need their prayers. And that's the blessing of God for us in times of ongoing need. We have the knowledge that prayer brings us to his presence, and that his Spirit gives us gifts of perseverance, patience, long-su ering and hope. The Bible says to us, 'Be joyful in hope, patient in a iction, faithful in prayer.' I think these things are intertwined. We can't be joyful or patient if we don't pray. We are in a long-haul situation and as a Christian community we have an opportunity to witness to the world that there can be joyful hope, we can be patient in our a ictions - especially if we reach out for help - and we can, we must, all be faithful in prayer. May God really bless you today đ&#x;™? And please don't forget we're here. Send a private message if you want to chat. I leave you with the lovely words of St Theresa of Avila: Let nothing disturb thee, nothing a right thee; All things are passing, God never changeth! Patient endurance attaineth to all things; Who God possesseth in nothing is wanting; Alone God su ceth.
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14 October 2020
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ood morning everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
People everywhere are waking up in expectation of what today will bring. For some it's an eager expectation - a celebration, some good news, a new job, a birth. For others today might bring something they've expected with dread - a diagnosis, a redundancy, a farewell. And in between there are countless varieties of things we are all anticipating. For some of us perhaps, a day of the usual routine. Nothing to see here. Nothing special. I feel I want to say one simple phrase, and very oddly it's a phrase I dreamed about last night. Seemingly, all night! I even woke up with these three words in my mind as if I'd already written this article. God is there. God is there in the celebrations of life when our hearts and faces are lled with delight and it's easy to praise God. God is there in the routine, the humdrum days when nothing interesting happens. He is the constant companion. God is there on the blackest of days when every light is extinguished. His presence, even if not seen or even felt, is assured. Here in Guisborough a well-known and much loved family is su ering a family tragedy. Because of their generations-old role in the community they are known and respected by everyone. Even in this, though hard to comprehend, God is there. The Psalmist asks, 'Where can I go from your Spirit?' The implied answer is nowhere. There is literally no place, no experience, no circumstance, no event where God does not go with us. He stands with us. He o ers his hand. And when the Bible says that we should 'rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep', it's re ecting what God himself does in our lives. He rejoices when we do; he weeps with us. God is there. Sometimes that's all we need to know. In heav’nly love abiding, No change my heart shall fear; And safe is such con ding, For nothing changes here. The storm may roar without me, My heart may low be laid, But God is round about me, And can I be dismayed?
His wisdom ever waketh, His sight is never dim; He knows the way He taketh, And I will walk with Him. Green pastures are before me, Which yet I have not seen; Bright skies will soon be o’er me, Where the dark clouds have been. My hope I cannot measure, My path to life is free; My Saviour has my treasure, And He will walk with me.
Wherever He may guide me, No want shall turn me back; My Shepherd is beside me, And nothing can I lack.
Father my simple prayer today is for all who, in joy or sorrow, will want to feel that you are there. In their rejoicing may they know your joy. In their despair may they know your love. In the name of Jesus. Amen. May God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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15 October 2020
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ello again everyone.
In your conversations with one other I think I could guarantee that at some point something will be said about change. The usual things mostly: the change in the weather, the change in the dark mornings and evenings, the change in health, the changes in your families, etc, etc. It's a simple thing but from our kitchen window we can watch the changing seasons - the trees on the small area of land next to our house herald the year's changes. The evidence at the moment is the huge pile of leaves that has now appeared on our drive. Natural changes like that can be beautiful; it's the unexpected, unpleasant or unwanted changes that are disliked. Some of us don't like change, some thrive on the challenge of new experiences. It would be an understatement to say (again) how things have changed in our lives and every aspect of living now is di erent. Lots of my conversations with people have the same theme, how 2020 is a year we could never have imagined, never want to relive, and we can't wait for 2021... The other day I had to walk a short distance in the pouring rain. The hills were hidden by mist, it was a dark morning, it was windy. But those noisy birds that I have often given a mention in these thoughts were singing. They were still singing despite it all. Yesterday we took a walk along Saltburn pier. The waves were still coming in, the cli s were still looming in the mist, the dog-walkers were all out as usual. Some things never change. Many things continue as normal. Life itself goes on... We begin to notice those normal things more now. We crave the consistency of routine and custom. I think we are going to even enjoy the usual distraction of the preparations for Christmas and I can imagine that we are going to make extra e orts to make things special. We want something that is constant. The old hymn says, Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ. If the birds still sing, if the waves continue to meet the land, the seasons continue their changing, how much more constant and consistent is the love of God for us? No matter what, no matter who, or where, or when changes in our lives, God never changes. What Jesus was yesterday he will be today and forever. In that constancy we nd our security. And our peace. Lord of all, in all my changing experiences may I be aware of those things that are sure, reliable, and constant. Especially help me to trust in your unfailing love, unchanging grace, immoveable power. I need that foundation of faith each day to give peace of heart and mind. Today, may I seek and nd your constant love and so know the peace of God that passes all understanding. In Jesus name. Amen. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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16 October 2020
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ood morning everyone!
Today I overslept - well, for me that's unusual; I blame our thick curtains and the dark mornings. And possibly for the very involved dream I was having that was so detailed it could be turned into a mini-series! It was one of those dreams that actually a ects your emotions - do you have them? I dreamed I had been in trouble with someone but it was simply not true; and yet I felt guilty. I remember once having an argument with Fiona in a dream and waking up and still feeling annoyed with her because it was all her fault! She still got her morning cup of tea though x. She was totally innocent and unaware. On another occasion, I worried all night about something to do with the Citadel here. I kept waking up and in those waking moments found myself trying to plan on what to do, when I was going to do it. I'd then go back to sleep and the situation lled my dreams, adding to my worries and sleeplessness. And then, after I'd got up and worried about it for a few minutes, I realised there was really no such situation. Oh, I can't tell you how relieved I was! Disney might tell you to follow your dreams but I can tell you that sometimes it's good to run the other way! đ&#x;˜ Don't believe your dreams! I'm no psychologist or 'dream-expert', and I know dreams can be useful if helpful. On a religious level there's a lot of experience from people where God has spoken to people in dreams. Not just in the Bible either. Nightmares and disturbing thoughts are not pleasant and it's good to forget them. I can't remember what the fake argument with Fiona was about. I can't remember what the problem at the Citadel was. I made sure I left it all behind me. If only our cares and concerns could so easily vanish with the morning. Well, sometimes a new day itself can indeed bring a new perspective on yesterday's worry and we've all been awake at 5am worrying for an hour about something that took 2 minutes to sort out at breakfast time! But even when faced with a concern, a worry, a situation that is ongoing, the rising of the sun and the dawning of a new day gives an opportunity to feel again the presence of God and the assurance of his strength and wisdom. The Psalm writer prays, 'Let morning bring me word of your unfailing love...' (Psalm 143 v 8) That's the opposite of a false dream, a niggling worry. Nothing is constant in this world like God's unfailing love. But there is a challenge. The writer of the Psalm adds, 'for I have put my trust in you'. Ah, there's our side of the story, if you like. Yes, it's true that 'New every morning is the love, our waking and uprising prove', but God asks for our faith, our trust for us to experience that love in a full and positive way; it's as if we are called to receive his love by faith. For those who open their hearts in faith, the love of God is over owing. The nal challenge comes next: 'Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.' In order to leave behind those things that burden us we are called to follow Jesus, whatever that might mean for us. Entrust your life to him, allow him to lovingly direct your path, and each day you will know his unfailing love. Lord, this morning I thank you for the love that is renewed in my life. At the end of each day I can thank you for your faithfulness and friendship. Help me to know you more, trust in you, and follow you as one of your own. May today bring word, not only of your love but also of grace, forgiveness, and peace in Jesus' name. Amen. Have a great day everyone. We're preparing for Sunday's Together in Worship - please plan to join us from 10am. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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17 October 2020
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i everyone. Welcome to another weekend, another 'Song Saturday' where we take a peek at one of the songs featured in the next day's Together in
Worship.
The song I've chosen to preview is A Wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord. This is a song that was written, unusually, to it a tune that had already been written. Fanny Crosby wrote the words and although she wrote over 9000 songs this one was her favourite. What's remarkable is that Fanny was totally blind and could only write her name. Every hymn and poem she ever 'wrote' was dictated from memory to her secretary. Equally remarkable is the fact that she became a teacher at a blind school. We use just a fraction of songs that she wrote: Blessed Assurance Jesus is Mine, Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross, Tell Me the Story of Jesus and perhaps best known, To God Be the Glory. And even though she wasn't a Salvationist, she wrote a song that many in the Army might assume is 'one of ours': We are Marching on With Shield and Banner Bright… The chorus of the song we are using tomorrow says, He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, That shadows a dry thirsty land. Her inspiration came from the time when Moses asked God if he could see him, and God had hidden Moses in a cleft in the rock, saying 'When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by.' (Exodus 33 v 22) I think there's a huge mystery here; what went on that day? What did the glory of God look like? What was the hand of God that covered Moses? All we can say is that the unimaginable greatness of God that prevents us from seeing him is balanced by the caring touch of his hand that gently protected Moses as he sheltered in that small space. It has been said that Fanny Crosby often felt alone and vulnerable; having no sight from being a baby evidently was the cause of that vulnerability, and she took refuge in her faith, using this verse as an encouragement. It's from Psalm 32 v 7: 'You are my hiding place.’ In God, in Jesus she found that hiding place, that place of refuge. It was for her a retreat, a place she felt close to God and 'covered by his hand'. The story of Moses, and God who passed by must have inspired her to write about this wonderful God and Saviour, who not only protected her now, giving 'strength as my day', but who also held out the prospect of great things in her future. She wrote of a day when with 'the millions on high' she would rise, transported into the clouds to meet Jesus at his coming. We can only imagine how she pictured that day, a day so beyond our own describing that we certainly don't have any advantage over her in describing what it will be like. She would certainly have loved the verse in Psalm 32 v 7 that says, 'In the time of trouble he shall hide me.' She will certainly have looked forward to the Lord's return and, in the ancient words of Job, would have repeated, I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! ( Job 19) A wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord, A wonderful Saviour to me; He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, Where rivers of pleasure I see.
A wonderful Saviour is Jesus my Lord, He taketh my burden away; He holdeth me up and I shall not be moved, He giveth me strength as my day.
Refrain:
With numberless blessings each moment He crowns, And, illed with His fulness divine, I sing in my rapture, oh, glory to God, For such a Redeemer as mine!
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life in the depths of His love, And covers me there with His hand.
When clothed in His brightness, transported I rise To meet Him in clouds of the sky, His perfect salvation, His wonderful love, I’ll shout with the millions on high.
We look forward to joining with you all tomorrow for Together in Worship, here from 10am.
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19 October 2020
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ood morning everyone! If that sunrise was anything to go by it's going to be a lovely day!
I'm sure it'll be a week of blessings. How do I know that? Because the Bible promises it and experience testi es to it. The remarkable thing about the Bible is that it can be read by academics and children, studied by bishops and factory workers, understood by theologians and people who can't even read. Yes, there's some 'deep thinking' in the Bible that exercises the most intelligent minds in the world, but then we realise that Jesus didn't lecture in theolo y, he told stories. David didn't teach a class of students, he sang songs. The Bible's truths are there for all to understand. No doubt this week some new set of restrictions will be published for one part of the country or other. A new guideline will be backed up by law. There will be people of course who will say, 'I don't understand', but I might suggest the confusion comes from all the comments, all the di erent opinions that are shared on social media. As a minister I have to read the 20 pages of guidelines for places of worship and I have to say that it's in the reading that the confusion is clari ed. In matters of faith, of living everyday life as believers in God, we are often faced with confusion, questions, doubts. I thank God that the Bible is not a set of changing guidelines that have to be read yet again 'to see what's changed this time'. The Bible, contrary to popular opinion, isn't just 'do this, don't do that!' It’s a life-giving book where history, poetry, prayer, story, personal letters and yes, a bit of theolo y, all combines to inspire, excite, comfort, encourage, challenge and bring the deepest joy and peace. But the greatest bene t of actually reading the Bible and taking time to think, is that in the pages we hear God, we meet him. Paul says that the Bible is inspired by God - literally 'breathed out' by God. When you read the Bible it's not just with your eyes but also your ears, it's not just your mind but your heart that is touched. It's as if God comes and sits beside you when you read. I heard a phrase over the weekend that said, 'The Bible needs no improvement.' I like that. When you read your Bible you can say to yourself, 'It doesn't get any better than this.' I guarantee that whatever advice or regulation changes this week, the Word of God will remain true, inspiring and life-giving. May God bless you throughout this week đ&#x;™? Whatever situation you nd yourself in, may God bless you, his word encourage you, and his Spirit walk beside you.
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20 October 2020
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ood morning everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
Today the community of Guisborough will gather along the high street of the town to support a family and to show a ection and respect to a young man who will be remembered for many years to come. It's often a clichĂŠ to talk about 'the community', but these last few days have brought out a sense of togetherness amongst many. Memories have been shared, owers and candles have been laid at the Market Cross, and many people will stand together along the main thoroughfares in Guisborough, including outside our own Citadel, to say farewell. To belong to a community is a very important thing. To feel at home, to be amongst 'our people' is special. And it's also good to feel, as many of us do, the warmth of welcome and acceptance as we become part of a new community and begin to get to know people and to make that community our own. People nd a sense of belonging in smaller, more de ned groups of course - a team, a club, a class, even blokes down the pub: it's all part of human nature to feel we belong. We talk about the Church, the Army; people refer to 'the faith community' and for some people the assumption is that 'churchgoers' are just another interest group or society. There's something much deeper, I think. Yes, we outwardly share common things - we like the music, we enjoy the fellowship (and miss it when it's not there). We value the Bible and it's teachings, and we are blessed by prayer. But these things are not just interests of the mind. What makes a Christian community is not our togetherness, but God's own presence. The centre of Christian faith is a relationship with God who is our Father. He brings us into his family and asks that we love him and love one another. The Psalms remind us that 'he made us, we are his people' (100 v 3) and that nobody should feel excluded because 'God sets the solitary in families' (68 v 6). To agricultural people, as most were in the days of the Bible of course, God o ers images of a shepherd leading and tending a ock, a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings. Because God's own Spirit indwells us we are not just a community, we're a communion. We are 'knit together' as one body sharing the love of Jesus. There really is nothing like this bond of fellowship, this people of God. It spreads round the world and encompasses those who have gone before us. It welcomes all and will continue in Heaven. This is where we belong. Let there be love shared among us Let there be love shared among us Let there be love in our eyes May now Your love sweep this nation. Cause us oh Lord to arise Give us a fresh understanding Of brotherly love that is real, Let there be love shared among us, Let there be love. (Dave Bilbrough)
Please pray for the Storey family. May God bless them, and all of us today đ&#x;™? (Market Cross photo: Peter Neasham)
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21 October 2020
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orning all, we hope your week is going well.
I was told something last week that really warmed my heart. It's the kind of thing I've heard about elsewhere, but it's never happened to someone I know. Anyway, this lady did her shopping in Morrisons and took her basket to the checkout. It was all put through and when the person on the checkout asked for the payment the lady realised the embarrassing truth: she'd forgotten her purse. There was nothing for it but to ask to have her shopping put to one side while she walked all the way home again to nd her purse. On her way to the door, a Morrisons assistant caught up to her and said, 'It's OK, the man behind you at the checkout has paid for your shopping. He insisted.’ What a lovely gesture. Unexpected, and for this not-so-young lady, taking away her need of a long return journey. It brought back memories of a little 8 year old in Blackpool who had a handful of old penny pieces ready to buy some sweets on the way home from school. I remember the tiny sweet shop that was little more than a wooden hut. And I can also remember the feeling as I stood there and realised my pennies were still in my desk at school. I couldn't pay. Sadly there was no one there to come to the rescue. That's the meaning of one of the great titles we give to Jesus: the Redeemer. The one who pays, the one who settles the debt, so that we can be freed from it, able to bene t from blessing and especially salvation. It's a lovely picture of God's love where Jesus pays the price we cannot pay, he values us so much that he paid with his own life the price of our eternal life. When Jesus cried out on the cross, 'It is nished', he meant, 'All done! All completed.' Some say that partly the meaning is 'Paid in full!' - a bit like when you get the nal statement on a loan repayment or receipt. What a relief! We can't repay the debts of our sins - but Jesus can! We can't pay the price of our redemption - but Jesus did! We can't by our own e orts win the grace of God - but Jesus gives it freely because the price is paid. Thank God for our redeemer who paid it all! It's all paid out of love. Such love, pure as the whitest snow Such love, weeps for the shame I know Such love, paying the debt I owe O Jesus, such love
Such love, springs from eternity Such love, streaming through history Such love, fountain of life to me O Jesus, such love
Such love, stilling my restlessness Such love, lling my emptiness Such love, showing me holiness O Jesus, such love
Graham Kendrick Copyright Š 1988 Make Way Music
https://youtu.be/XODaTctCjvQ
God bless you today đ&#x;™?
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22 October 2020
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ood morning! Another dark morning but the sun will always come up!
A phrase that has become very well used these days is 'thoughts and prayers'. Whenever we want to send a message of sympathy, support, and comfort, we all say it: 'My thoughts and prayers are with you', or ' Sending loving thoughts and prayers'. It's a very personal greeting, and those words are even used now in o cial messages; I've heard top politicians use them with no cynicism whatsoever. A tragedy or a crisis occurs, and a press release or tweet is sent: 'Our thoughts and prayers are with...' We just know that sending a message like that will be of comfort to others because we ourselves have felt comforted by them. There's a sense of reassurance in knowing that others are thinking of us. And it's often a re ection of the fact that we very often do hold people in our thoughts in times of di culty. Yes, we think of them. But we also think of Him too - it's certainly 'thoughts AND prayers'; we believe that God is present. How many times do we ourselves think of God in our own circumstances? For many of us it's a constant thing, and a prayer is a thought turned heavenward. We are encouraged to pray, to share our thoughts with God, and I would certainly encourage you to do so. There's a lovely song by Joy Webb with these words: I can think of Him in my happy hours, When my heart is gay, glad my way; Knowing He walks with me, I can always think of Him. I can think of Him in prayer, For I know He will be there; (Listen here: https://youtu.be/NHvLfoEQJWA ) In my brightest day, or my darkest way, I can think of Him in prayer. But here's a wonderful thought: did you know God thinks about you? He is always thinking of you. Why wouldn't he? If he loves you (as he does), of course he will have you in his thoughts. And Jesus has us constantly in his prayers - imagine that: Jesus intercedes for you to the Father and the Spirit carries your prayers to God's throne. That not only means God thinks about you, but Father, Son and Spirit are talking about you too! How could we ever feel alone, unloved, when God himself is thinking of us. King David said to God, How precious are Your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! They outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, You are still with me. (Psalm 139 v 17,18) That's an amazing thought. Even when I'm asleep, God watches over me, and all day, all night, holds me in his thoughts. How precious are those thoughts indeed! Father, thank you for your love, grace, and kindness towards me; For the gift of prayer so that I can think of you often, and always have Someone to turn to, Someone to listen. But more than this, I thank you that you think of me. Your love for me is wonderful and I want to love you too Lord. Accept my prayer, and my praise today. Amen. As usual we're here if you need anything today. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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23 October 2020
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ello again from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
Have you ever forgotten someone's name? You've met them in the street, you know who they are... But no, no name! And you daren't ask! There have been times over the years when someone has greeted me, knew who I was, called me by name and walked away. And I literally had no idea who that person was! They may have seen me doing something in an o cial capacity but I just didn't know....but in both these scenarios we don't let on that we don't know. I was at the Salvation Army training college over 30 years ago and a fellow cadet (trainee o cer) was there with the same name as me. We were in small groups together, we worked alongside each other, and then we went our separate ways until 5 years ago a mutual friend came to me at an event and said to me, 'You remember Tony don't you!' 'Of course,' I replied, at which our friend introduced me to the man I had done training with for two years. 'You remember Antony don't you?' He didn't even try to remember. And not only that, he didn't do what we all do and just go along with it. 'Nope,' he said. 'You must do,' said our mutual friend. 'No, nothing at all,' said the man with the same name whom I'd trained with. And that was that. He just walked away. I can't pretend I didn't feel just a little confused, but oh well... Yesterday I wrote about how God thinks of us constantly. Today I mention a favourite verse of mine that tells us God will not forget our name because, metaphorically, he has engraved our name on his hand. For 'engraved' we could say 'inscribed', 'carved', 'written indelibly', or even tattooed! You might have seen men with a girl's name tattooed on their arm, never to be forgotten - well God's got you tattooed on his hand! And that must have been painful! Originally Isaiah was writing about the Jews, saying that God will never forget the nation of Israel even in di cult times, even when they thought God had forgotten them. But we can apply that same truth for ourselves. Even in times in our lives when we feel alone or God seems di erent be assured of this: he says, 'I will not forget you. See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.' (Isaiah 49 v 15,16) Father, I am encouraged to know that not only do you think of me, you know my name; and it's as if you carry my name with you, inscribed on your hand. There are days of joy and gladness, there are stressful days and even days of deep sorrow, but Lord what assurance there is in knowing that nothing changes your knowledge of me. With that thought, my prayer is that I will always remember you, in all situations and occasions to trust that you are there. Today, renew my faith, and help me to know you more, love you, and serve you in Jesus' name. Amen. God bless you đ&#x;™? Watch out for details today about videos of two Territorial Salvation Army congress meetings to be held tomorrow and Sunday!
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24 October 2020
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orning all! As usual we continue our theme of 'Song Saturday' and this week I've chosen a song that will be used today and tomorrow in our 'Light, Life and Love' Congress online. It's another song by a previous General of The Salvation Army, Albert Orsborn. You will remember that I used another of his songs on 10 October. The General's songs are all highly personal and deeply reflective. I look at some songs and though I may be wrong, some of them seem to have been 'easily written' as it were; poetry that is produced by skills of language; but the hymns and songs I like are those that evidently come from a profound personal experience, a spiritual longing, perhaps even a season of suffering. The song 'When shall I come unto the healing waters' is one such song. It's a song of prayer, a song of searching. It's one of three that General Orsborn wrote about 'extremely heavy and bitter sorrows', but it's not a morbid, introspective song. Instead, it's a song of hope in Christ and his cross, the place of healing and restoration: 'From a hill I know, healing waters flow,' he writes con idently. He had visited a place in New Zealand called Te Aroha which was famous for hot springs that had a reputation for medicinal and healing properties. It's still there today - I checked. It's all spas and hot tubs nowadays (and looks wonderful), but they do have the original source of the water there, a geyser that gushes out of the ground. This was the inspiration for the General's words as he thought not of a natural spring of water, but of the healing fountain that poetically springs from the cross of Jesus. Another old Gospel song says, Jesus keep me near the cross; There a precious fountain, Free to all, a healing stream, Flows from Calvary's mountain. It's the same thought the General had - a fountain of healing for the soul, a place of cleansing for life's hidden wounds, and the washing away of 'the dust of earthly striving'. These are beautiful poetic words, but we can only imagine what these wounds and fears were in his mind that led him to write such a prayer of longing. In the cross he sees 'all I require to cleanse me and restore.’ When we read words like these, knowing that they were deeply personal to Albert Orsborn, we ind them echoing our own prayers. All of us could pray these words and ind that they echo our own deepest longings and desires, our own deepest need for forgiveness, cleansing and healing. The Bible speaks of that day when the fountain, as it were, was opened; it was a fountain where cleansing can be found and we believe that at the cross, through faith and in prayer, we can have that experience of being restored. 'Flow through my soul,' pleads the General and we might say 'Amen' to that for ourselves. Today and tomorrow in the congress meetings online they will feature this song for us to listen to and make our prayer. May your need and his grace meet today. When shall I come unto the healing waters? Wash from my hands the dust of earthly striving; Lifting my heart, I cry to Thee my prayer; Take from my mind the stress of secret fear; Spirit of peace, my comforter and healer, Cleanse Thou the wounds In whom my springs are found, From all but Thee far hidden, Let my soul meet Thee there. And when the waters flow let my healing appear. From a hill I know, Light, life and love are in that healing fountain, Healing waters flow; All I require to cleanse me and restore; O rise, Immanuel’s tide, Flow through my soul, redeem its desert places, And my soul overflow! And make a garden there for the Lord I adore. May God bless you today. We're here if you need us. There is no Together in Worship tomorrow, instead please share in the online Congress meetings; today at 3pm and tomorrow at 9am. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=u5u8e3_TVCg
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orning everyone, welcome to a new week.
We hope you enjoyed the Congress meetings over the weekend, some of the music was excellent. The theme of light, life and love was featured, and I wanted to comment on something that Jesus said of himself: I am the light of the world. I think most of us try to do what we can to enjoy the light. Whether it's going abroad to nd the summer sun (well, perhaps not this year!), or just enjoying sitting in a sunny spot. Now the evenings are dark we like to put the lights and lamps on and sit bathed in warm and cosy light. We put the clocks forward and back in Spring and Autumn with the idea of 'daylight saving' and trying not to have such dark mornings. Did you enjoy the extra hour over the weekend and notice how much brighter Sunday morning was? As winter approaches most of us will be looking forward to decorating our houses with lights as almost a rebellion against the darkness - there's a metaphor if ever we wanted one! I was thinking on Saturday night that even the television seems to join in with the theme of joyful light. Did you watch Strictly Come Dancing? Can there be a happier, brighter, more joyous programme on the television to brighten a dark, cold October Saturday evening? We often picture Jesus the light of the world as a solitary gure with an old fashioned lamp surrounded still by darkness. It's a beloved image, but I would love to see him pictured covered in light, totally dispelling the darkness, bringing joy and gladness to the world. And if ever we needed it it's now! The world looks for light, creates light, enjoys light. In the darkness we want the brightness to shine. Jesus brings a brightness into life itself. By the light we see truth more clearly, we are guided by the light, welcomed, comforted and warmed. Just as a room lled with lights can be a joyful place, so the light of Christ brings joy to us. So, in the dark nights, in the gloomy days, enjoy the opportunity to light the lights and enjoy the brightness, but most of all, let the light of Christ shine on you. Lord Jesus light of the world, be the light of life to me. I begin by praying, 'Lead, kindly light, amid the encircling gloom, Lead thou me on...' But more than that, I want to 'light up the sunshine in my heart’! Lord I want you to Shine, Jesus, shine Fill this land with the Father's glory Blaze, Spirit, blaze Set our hearts on re Flow, river, ow Flood the nations with grace and mercy Send forth your word Lord, and let there be light! Today Lord may I be lled with the joyful light of life. In Jesus' name. Amen. Have a good day everyone, God bless you đ&#x;™?
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26 October 2020
27 October 2020
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ello everyone. Good morning from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
When I got up this morning there was just a glimmer of light in the east and as it grew I thought it was going to be a lovely sunny morning. But as the sun has risen a blanket of cloud has moved across the sky and it looks like things may turn dark, but who knows? There's something of 'red sky in the morning' going on at the moment...hopefully it might clear. Sometimes we feel that something promising doesn't turn out the way we thought; clouds appear in our bright sky. Shadows fall, etc. We use metaphors of light and darkness to describe bad news or a di cult situation. We might talk about 'a dark day' or 'gathering clouds'. We feel like that all the time at the moment as we're under the cloud, as it were, of this virus. I've been reading a number of comments in various places about depression, mental health, stress, etc, and there are two common themes in all these comments: Firstly, talk to someone, open up to a friend, share your feelings with someone else. Oh that's good advice! But secondly, be the person who might help. A friendly word, a smile, the o er of a chat, anything that might shine a bit of light into someone you might or might not realise is struggling. Yesterday we remembered Jesus, the light of the world. Well, indeed: you'd expect him to be! But he says to us, 'You are the light of the world'. Me? What can I do? How can I bring light to the whole world? Well, maybe it's not all the world - we're not Jesus - but we could be a light in our small world; the world that is our family, the world of our o ce, our street, our circle of friends. Maybe we could be a point of light in just one person's world that, for them has a bit more darkness than they'd like. A text, a phone call, the o er of a socially-distanced co ee, the assurance of your prayers. Just being for them a person of faith might be the light in their world. If we know the Light of the World in our own lives, then we can make a huge di erence just by being a small light 'just where he needs me'. Let's all 'let my little light shine' today. The world will be a brighter place for it. I love this little video of people the Army has helped singing This Little Light of Mine. It always makes me smile â˜ş https://youtu.be/DrE3KwiWj4E God bless you đ&#x;™? We're always here - phone or message us if you need anything.
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28 October 2020
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ood morning everyone!
Isn't it strange what counts as remarkable nowadays! Yesterday I decided I needed a new mask so I went to the shop and bought one that was just a little more expensive than the slightly loose cheap one I've got. Well, I'm really pleased with it! It ts well and it's comfy and...... fancy getting enthusiastic about a face mask! Actually, what I want to talk about is the shop experience. I placed the packet with the mask in it on the counter and paid by 'contactless', but the very nice shop assistant just sat there. 'Your receipt is there,' she said, motioning me to tear the receipt o the machine myself. It was easily done of course, I didn't need sta training to do it, but in our previous world I remember a receipt being handed to me. In fact that's what they still do in Morrisons. I'm not complaining; it's hardly worth mentioning, but it did make me think of how in some circumstances we have come to the point of reducing physical contact - even by not giving a piece of paper or handing your purchases to you. It was basically supervised self-service. Physical contact is so important and we've lost it. I haven't shaken anyone's hand for over seven months! I used to do a lot of handshaking! And hugging is certainly out of the question! It's such a shame. What makes it worse of course is the present inability to go into each others' houses. Even when you can it's probably wiser not to. Oh what a distanced world we live in! One of the remarkable things about Jesus - and one of the things that added to his critics' complaining was his willingness to 'reach out his hand and touch'. He touched the blind man, he touched the disabled man. Astonishingly he touched the leper, he even touched the dead! The law of his day did allow that but he should have isolated himself although he never did. His compassion, combined with his divine power, meant that he could not withhold his human touch. As well as healing a man's disease, he also a rmed him, comforted him with that simple touch. The most dramatic touch Jesus gave was when Peter dared to try to walk on water, sank, and 'Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.' Christian hymns and devotional writings ever since have been lled with this lovely thought of the hand of Jesus reaching out and touching us in blessing, in healing, in rescue, in forgiveness. If Jesus were with you, would you welcome his divine touch? What work of grace and compassion would he do for you today? A modern American gospel song of testimony says that 'the hand of Jesus touched me, And now I am no longer the same.' That's the testimony of so many who have been touched by his loving hand. He touched me, oh He touched me, And oh the joy that oods my soul! Something happened and now I know, He touched me and made me whole May God be close to you today, and may you know his hand of blessing and healing on your life. God bless you đ&#x;™?
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H
ello again everyone from Major Antony and Major Fiona.
I'm looking out of our living room window and I notice two things: the absolutely beautiful orange sky and the recycling bins either near the footpath or poised in the neighbours' gardens ready to be brought the nal few feet ... Yesterday the ritual question will have been asked by many people: 'Which bin is it tomorrow?' There are times I just can't remember which one, and so I look across the road to see which bin the very-reliable Barry has brought out. I always follow his lead. Am I sad because my favourite bin day is 'blue bin day'? Admit it you have a favourite too... I love the thought of recycling. I've always been fascinated by people who take old stu and turn it into something new. As I was working yesterday in my o ce at home I could hear the cry of 'ragbone!' from the loud speaker on the man's white atbed truck. I hear it most weeks as he trawls our streets for old cookers and scrap metal and 'stu '. I remember in Blackpool in the 1970s we had a 'real' rag and bone man who had a horse! He'd clip-clop round our terraced streets collecting all kinds of things. What did he do with it all the stu ? Sell the metal? Use parts again in other stu ? Repair it? Reuse it? One man's trash is another man's treasure I guess; to the rag and bone man everything could have a potential use, a hidden value, a new purpose others might not perceive. If ever there was a metaphor for how God sees each person, that's it. Whether you have evident gifts and talents and have lived life wisely, or whether life has become chaotic and spoiled, God always sees a use, a value, a purpose. In the imagination of God every man, every woman is worthy of renewal, of 'recycling'. The Bible is absolutely clear. St Paul instructs us to be renewed in our minds - that tells me it's possible! I'm encouraged by that. Then he tells us that if anyone is 'in Christ' - that means having Christ at the centre of their life - they are a 'new creation, the old has gone, the new has come'. This is God's renewing work, his 'recycling' work. Not one of us is without value or potential, and by the grace of God we can have a spiritual 'blue bin day' - in fact a limitless number of them - where God can take what we have been, what we have become, and make it new by grace through faith. A much-loved song we sing in the Army with a joyful tune says: I want to tell you what the Lord can do, What the Lord can do for you. He can take your life as he did mine and make it anew. Every day can be a blue bin day - it's God's favourite! What can he do for you? God bless you đ&#x;™?
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29 October 2020
30 October 2020
H
ello to you all from Major Fiona and Major Antony
Well today we're going to do three exciting things: Firstly, Fiona and I will be recording Together in Worship for Sunday – we enjoy doing that. Secondly, one of our sons and his girlfriend is coming down to visit – with a huge and hungry black Labrador, but thirdly, that visit will basically be a trek up Roseberry Topping. Oh, the joy! I just hope the weather forecast is erring on the negative side when it says today will be ‘mostly cloudy with a couple of showers’, and the showers are half a millimetre – so, not exactly a downpour. Well, here’s hoping the couple of showers are when we get back later on! I’ve written about this before, but I like the hills around here. Whichever direction you drive you can see hills. I can even see the hills from my kitchen window. I shan’t mention her name - but she knows who she is! – there is one lady I know who has a lovely view of Roseberry Topping from her living room window. What a lovely thing to see that whenever you like. You might know that one of my favourite passages from the Bible is Psalm 121: I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. The writer is re ecting on the beauty of the hills around him, as we all do. The permanence of them, the changing scenes through the seasons. There’s something both familiar and majestic about them – even comforting. When you see Roseberry Topping in the distance, for example, you know you’re nearly home. But the writer has realised something else: it’s not the hills that give him the help he needs, it’s not the creation we enjoy so much: it’s the Creator himself: ‘My help comes from the Lord who made it all’. The Bible tells us a very important thing: All nature around us points to God. I remember as a teenager that I and a friend of mine who wasn't particularly religious were looking up at the stars, and he said, ‘How can you not believe in a God when you see all that?’ Well indeed. But here’s the important thing: God takes us from the hills, takes us from recognising the Creator that he is, and tells us, ‘I am here to help you.’ He doesn’t specify the help, he doesn’t restrict that help to a list of specialisms that God can deal with; it’s open-ended and he says to us, 'Cast all your cares upon me for I care for you.' He invites us to tell him our worries, he calls us to share our concerns, he wants us to prove his power in our lives by asking for his help. He asks us to believe, to trust. Look beyond the hills, the things that are around you. Look to God, lift your eyes beyond the hills and see a Father’s hands who wants to bless you. God bless you indeed today.
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31 October 2020
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ood morning everyone! The weekend again and it’s ‘Song Saturday.’
Since the clocks went back, I’ve enjoyed waiting for the sun to rise each morning. I have not been disappointed: The glowing reds and oranges have been stunning, the clouds were seemingly on re; if I were a poet, I could have written a dozen verses! Each sunrise that welcomed a new day really did give the eyes something to gaze upon, and the heart something to rejoice over. The beauty of the sunrise points to possibilities or even just an opportunity to enjoy the quiet moment. There is something obvious in the metaphor of the darkness gradually giving way to the growing light. Today is Hallowe’en and I have to say that I’m not a fan. No one wants to deny children the fun and laughter of ‘spooky things’, but I have never been comfortable with the real meaning behind what thankfully for most has become a cartoonish celebration of ‘things that go bump…’ etc…. But for those who do take such things seriously there is something ‘of the night’ about the pagan observance of Hallowe’en, which is why tomorrow is All Saints Day, an ancient church festival deliberately introduced to counteract the dark celebrations that others got involved in. We will use a song tomorrow that uses the image of light to reassure us of the promise of Heaven. It’s a place of great beauty, a feeling of rejoicing for those who believe in the eternal love of God. Remember, Jesus is the light of the world and the Bible says of God that there is no darkness in him at all. In the times of sorrow that we all endure – and especially in these dark Covid-days, what we are glad to consider is not the darkness but the glorious light that awaits us when we one day join those who have gone before us in the Glory of Heaven, the dwelling of God. Join us tomorrow for Together in Worship and nd reassurance and comfort in these words: 1. One golden dawning, one glorious morning, When earth's dark shadows ee away, Our voices blending in song unending, In brightest realms of fadeless day.
3. With Christ forever! No sin can sever A fellowship as blest, so sweet; We'll sing in Glory salvation's story; Before His throne we'll stand complete.
2. No sad repining; love's sun is shining
Refrain: There'll be no sorrow in God's tomorrow, There'll be no sadness, doubt, or fears;
Where Jesus dwells; O wondrous place! Our praises voicing in glad rejoicing To Him who saved us by His grace.
There'll be no sorrow in God's tomorrow, For He will wipe away all tears.
God bless you today We'll see you tomorrow at 10!
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Psalm 4 v 8 Psalm 5 v 3 Psalm 27 v 5 Psalm 63 v 3 Psalm 89 v 5 Psalm 121 v 1,2 Psalm 139 v 7 Psalm 139 v 17 18 Psalm 141 v 2 Psalm 143 v 8 Psalm 145 v 18
12th 8th 17th 15th 3rd 30th 14th 22nd 9th 16th 2nd
Isaiah 49 v 16
23rd
Zechariah 13 v 1
24th
Matthew 5 v 14
27th
Mark 1 v 41
28th
Luke 10 v 20
10th
John 1 v 5 John 8 v 12
31st 26th
Romans 12 v 2 Romans 12 v 5 Romans 12 v 12
29th 20th 13th
Philippians 4 v 19
2nd
Colossians 2 v 13 15
21st
2 Timothy 3 v 16
19th
Revelation 1 v 7 Revelation 3 v 5 Revelation 7 v 9
1st 5th 6th
 
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Index of Bible Verses - October
Biography
O
riginally from Blackpool and Bristol, Majors Antony and Fiona Mugford, with 32 years experience as Salvation Army O cers, have served mainly as Corps O cers (church leaders), but also have experience of working in homeless services and in elderly care. Fiona is also a quali ed sta nurse working in hospice care in Newcastle and Stockton, and last year Antony completed a Masters Degree in Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies. They have three adult sons and have been Corps O cers here in Guisborough since July 2014.
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