FAITH IN ACTION  02 NOVEMBER 2019 | Issue 6729 | $1.50
Parihaka and Maraea Morris
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WAR CRY The Salvation Army
New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Andy & Yvonne Westrupp | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS William
& Catherine Booth
The Salvation Army’s message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in his name without discrimination. War Cry exists to support and advance The Salvation Army’s message, ministry and mission. ACTING EDITOR Major Shar Davis | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Matt Gillon | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Louise Parry, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING Vivienne Hill | COVER ‘Salvation’ by Liam Barr OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box
6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Fax (04) 382 0716, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department, Phone
(04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT www.makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset
is an environmentally responsible paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) FSC® certified Mixed Source pulp from responsible sources and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System. Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association. All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated. Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission. Publishing for 136 years | Issue 6729 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online www.issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry
www.salvationarmy.org.nz SalvationArmyNZFTS @SalvationArmyNZ salvationarmynzfts
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More God, More … After months of meetings, emails, planning and prayer, Just Action and Encounter Congress have been and gone. I really enjoyed the debate at Just Action, featuring cadets from BCM debating the vegetarian lifestyle as a response to caring for all of creation. I couldn’t get enough of the Cultural Encounter night on Thursday, celebrating some of the cultures that form our territory. And Suva Central Corps band lived up to all my expectations, having heard them last year at Commissioning in Fiji. One of my favourite moments was popping into the children’s space during a moment of sung worship. What caught my eye was a child standing in the midst of the crowd, eyes closed, hands out in front of them in a posture of openness and receiving. It was a beautiful moment of encounter. I also loved seeing everyone joining in on Friday night’s big game, featuring Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, Ben Clark and wobble-bobble balls. It was cool to see people of all ages getting involved and to know that having fun and laughter are some of the ways we can encounter God. We’ve spent the past 12 months focusing on New Zeal—Encounter. But it is not something that we tick off our list and move on to the next thing. A posture of openness and receiving is something we can choose every day. Congress left me encouraged by what I see God doing in the lives of people who come into contact with The Salvation Army, from every aspect of mission and ministry. And it leaves me praying: ‘More God, more’. Shar Davis Assistant Territorial Communications Secretary
Go put your hands to the plough. Look not back. If any come with guns, be not afraid. If they smite you, smite not in return. If they rend you, be not discouraged. Another will take up the good work. Te Whiti o Rongomai (Parihaka, 1879)
Psalm 4:8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. Ngā Waiata 4:8 Ka takoto mārire ahau, ā moe tonu iho; ko koe anake hoki, e Ihowā, hei mea kia au tōku noho.
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am a big fan of fireworks. I can still remember my family gathering in my grandparents backyard, while my Grampa lit the Catherine wheel nailed to an upright post in the garden. As children, we loved running around with sparklers and throwing poha or ‘double happy’ crackers in the air and running away while they exploded. I don’t know exactly when it began, but a few years ago, easy access to fireworks started to lose its charm on me. Perhaps it was ducks being fed lit crackers, or horses being injured or dying after being spooked. Now that I have cats—including a blind one—the idea that people can set off fireworks anytime they like, is less than appealing. November 5 has been ‘the’ night for fireworks for decades in New Zealand. I grew up in a time when we learnt about Mr Guy Fawkes (aka Guido Fawkes) at school. He was part of a small group of English Catholics who planned to assassinate the Protestant King James by blowing up Parliament House. He was caught guarding the explosives and confessed to the plan. The failed plot has been commemorated in Britain since 1605, where his effigy is burned on a bonfire, accompanied by fireworks. Seems like a perfectly acceptable reason for people in New Zealand to celebrate, right? How about instead of celebrating a centuriesold terrorist, we celebrate something worthwhile, something of significance in our own history, something that acknowledges the suffering and injustice of the people of Parihaka. Last year War Cry did a feature about Parihaka, the history and its significance for us today. It’s worth checking out https://www.salvationarmy.org. nz/article/remembering-parihaka. One of the
significant symbols for people of Taranaki, and particularly those connected with Parihaka, is the raukura—albatross feather. Much of the artwork connected to Parihaka includes three feathers above Mt Taranaki. The raukura represents ‘spiritual, physical and communal harmony and unity’. It is a symbol of faith, hope, and compassion for all people and the environment that we live in. One account of how it came to be refers to a gathering of people at Parihaka who witnessed an albatross landing on one of its courtyards, dropping a single feather before departing. This feather became the raukura, and was honoured by Tohu Kakahi and Te Whiti-o-Rongomai, two of the prophetic leaders of Parihaka and its community. The raukura feathers encompass teachings of the Bible, with particular attention to the following passage: ‘Kia whai korōria te Atua i runga rawa, kia mau te rongo ki runga ki te whenua, me te whakairo pai ki runga ki te whenua. (Glory to God on high, peace on earth, goodwill to all mankind—Luke 2:14).’ The Holy Spirit is also represented through a dove, a symbol of peace. Jesus—the Prince of Peace—inspired Te Whiti and Tohu, who in turn inspired their entire community to resist revenge and embrace the teachings of Jesus. With everything happening in our world right now, something that symbolises faith, hope and compassion for all people and the environment— and reminds us of God’s presence in this world— is worth celebrating. BY SHAR DAVIS
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Drama/Biography Judy (M) Directed by Rupert Goold
Unrecognisable as Bridget Jones, Renee Zellwegger transforms herself into Judy Garland, beautifully capturing Judy’s desire to entertain, while struggling with the consequences of a life constantly directed and scrutinised by others, having begun entertaining at two years old. The film toggles between a young Judy on the set of The Wizard of Oz and 46-year-old Judy attempting to keep her star shining through a fiveweek run of performances at London’s Talk of the Town cabaret club. We are given a glimpse into the darker parts of a life lived in the spotlight, a sample of the songs that captured hearts, and the woman who dreamed of a life ‘somewhere over the rainbow’. (Reviewed by Shar Davis)
THEBARRATTSHAVE LEFTTHEBUILDING
The Communications team was really sad to say farewell to Ingrid, Martin and Jake, as they embarked on their next adventure to Cambridge. Ingrid joined the War Cry team in 2010, writing many award-winning and thought-provoking articles over the years. She has been Managing Editor since December 2017, bringing her own flavour and flair to the magazine. Martin joined the team in 2012, looking after the website, leading it through change to its current format. They have contributed so much to the team over the years and the wider mission of The Salvation Army, and we say ‘thank you!’
Weird of the Week: The famous bird in the Twitter logo has a name—Larry! (Named after Larry Bird, former Boston Celtics player). 4 WarCry 02 NOVEMBER 2019
Oh Crickets! The idea of eating crickets might raise a few eyebrows, but since launching in March, Rebel Bakehouse’s Cricket Flour Wraps have steadily grown in popularity and are now available in stores all over New Zealand. ‘As well as being soft, you can scrunch them up in your hand, and they’ll bounce back good as new again— kids also love them,’ say Future Food Manager John Hart and Sales & Marketing Manager Chris Petersen. Their crickets are farmed in the Wairarapa by John (whose wife Karen was formerly The Salvation Army’s Social Media Officer). The critters are naturally high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and also contain vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. In the wake of recent climate strikes, the demand has never been greater for healthy, sustainable food alternatives.
QUIKQUIZ
1 Which two Pacific nations skipped a day in 2011, to line up with trade partners like NZ?
2 What is the capital of Canada? 3 What is the collective noun for foxes? 4 What is the gemstone for November? 5 Who is the good shepherd? Answers on page 22
‘People will think twice about buying something if they believe the brand has a negative impact on the environment— they want to feel they can make a positive impact through their purchasing power.’ Rebel Bakehouse have plans to expand their product range—‘watch this space’—but in the meantime, their cricket flour can also be included in smoothies or baking as a protein boost. ‘People love our crickets— we have restaurants using them in their dishes, bars in their cocktails.’ While they do not see their products replacing meat farming, John and Chris believe crickets are an emerging food source for the ever-increasing number of New Zealanders. ‘It’s just one of the ways we can feed an increased population and be kinder to the planet.’
WARCRYINHISTORY
This article from the 3 November 1945 edition of War Cry celebrated the work of The Samaritan Depot, in Wellington, where Brigadier Mrs Hughson offered ‘prayerful consideration, expert advice and, where necessary, practical assistance’ to many women in need and their children. Source: Booth College of Mission Heritage and Archives Centre
TOPFIVE Whether you’re fascinated or creeped out by insects, here are five things you probably didn’t know about the many critters of creation. 5 Their beautiful wings get most of the attention, but did you know butterflies taste with their feet? 4 Forget Yuri Gagarin or Neil Armstrong, fruit flies were actually the first living creatures to be sent into outer space. 3 To enable it to breathe underwater, the Water Scorpion has a snorkel-like tube on its abdomen. 2 Grasshoppers have special organs in their hind legs which store up energy for jumping. 1 Bees beat their wings 190 times per second (or 11,400 times per minute)!
BLT Pasta Salad 250g penne pasta 250g bacon rashers, thinly sliced 2 baby cos lettuce, torn 250g cherry tomatoes, halved ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese For the dressing 1 egg ¼ cup mayonnaise 2 tsp wholegrain mustard
Cook pasta according to packet instructions. Drain well and leave to cool. Meanwhile, heat a medium non-stick frying pan on high. Sauté bacon for 2–3 minutes, until crisp. To make dressing, whisk all ingredients together in a small jug. Season to taste. In a large salad bowl, combine pasta, lettuce, tomatoes and bacon and toss to combine. Drizzle dressing over and sprinkle with Parmesan. Tip: You could also add sliced avocado and toasted croutons made from stale bread.
2 tsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp chives, finely chopped Salt and pepper Source: countdown.co.nz
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Left: ‘Salvation’ by Liam Barr. Right: Maata Wharehoka, caretaker at Kaitiaki Marae at Parihaka, speaking at Just Action Conference in October.
Forgiveness can be transformational for individuals, families, communities and nations. What can we learn about the power of forgiveness through the people of Parihaka and Salvationist Maraea Morris? BY SHAR DAVIS
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unting for a bargain in a Family Store one day, I came across a t-shirt that I knew I had to buy right away. Across the front in big red lettering was the word ‘Arohamai’ and, underneath in smaller text, ‘remember Parihaka 5th November 1881’. Arohamai means ‘I’m sorry, forgive me’. Just a few years earlier I’d never heard of Parihaka. I was never taught about it at school, despite it being an incredibly significant event in New Zealand’s history. I don’t remember how I first heard about Parihaka, but what I discovered changed my thinking about many things, including the importance of 5 November. I grew up always looking forward to 5 November, it was the day we got to set things on fire, watch things blow up and marvel at the beauty of fireworks. While I enjoyed the sights and smells of fireworks—a weird tribute to a man who centuries earlier failed to blow up the British Parliament—Māori around the country grieved because of the horrendous acts of violence and injustice that occurred at Parihaka. On the back of my new t-shirt, it listed the reasons for the ‘arohamai’ on the front: ‘I’m sorry for the invasion of your village 5th Nov, illegal arrest and exiling of Te Whiti and Tohu, looting by the armed constabulary 18th Nov, destruction of your wharenui 20th Nov, forcible ejection of 1443 people from their homes 20th Nov, rape of your women, congenital syphilis in your children, and for the imprisonment without trial of 420 ploughmen and fencers for two years, lasting effect on their wives and children, the confiscation of your land, backdating of legislation to make legal the Govt’s illegal acts, and our failure as a nation to face these issues.’ The people of Parihaka have many reasons to feel grieved over what happened, the minimalising of events and intentional exclusion from the consciousness of all New Zealanders, through its absence in our teaching of history.
The peacemakers of Parihaka Mahatma Gandhi is held up around the world as a shining example of nonviolent resistance, for the way he led the campaign for India’s independence from British rule. ‘I did once seriously think of embracing the Christian faith,’ said Gandhi. ‘The gentle figure of Christ, so full of forgiveness that he taught his followers not to retaliate when abused or struck, but to turn the other cheek—I thought it was a beautiful example of the perfect man.’ Yet, a generation earlier, the prophets Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi of Parihaka had paved the way for ‘turning the other cheek’ through passive resistance, as a response to injustice and oppression. 02 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 7
Te Whiti combined Christianity with traditional Māori teachings and embodied the notion of rejecting violence even when resisting injustice. When the government tried to steal land in Taranaki, they took the words of Old Testament prophets literally and ‘beat their swords into plowshares’, and put fences across roads and ploughed disputed land. Many were arrested and sent to forced labour in the South Island.
Maraea’s miracle Maraea Moana Mahaki, also known as Maraea Morris, has been beautifully captured in Liam Barr’s artwork entitled ‘Salvation’. Hers is a story of devastating loss, all-consuming grief and freedom through forgiveness. Three years after marrying Pera Taihuka, a young chief, he was executed in front of her eyes after they were both caught up in the Matawhero massacre, a short distance from Gisborne. ‘Wiping her hands in her husband’s blood, Maraea vowed that she would not rest until she had taken the life of Te Kooti Arikirangi, the Māori dissident,’ wrote Joan Hutson. Vengeance consumed her for over 17 years, as she searched everywhere for Te Kooti. She eventually returned to Gisborne and found herself on the outskirts of the crowd that had gathered when The Salvation Army ‘opened fire’ and marched up one of the main streets. As a child, she’d grown to love the Bible and prayer after attending a school run by the Wesleyan Mission, and later attended the Māori Church of England; but that had all but disappeared, as her quest for revenge consumed her life. She still read the Bible but it provided no light to her life—until she heard Captain Ernest Holdaway read from the final chapter of Revelation, ‘familiar words that riveted Maraea’s attention ... let in the first glimmer of light,’ wrote Brigadier Ivy Cresswell in her book Canoe on the River. A few days later, Maraea met Cadet Grinling in the street selling the War Cry. She asked him for a copy for free and as he gave her one he smiled and said, ‘God bless you’. She then saw the captain going to her neighbour’s house. He asked Maraea if she was a Christian and did she love God. At first she replied only
in Māori, before eventually declaring in English: ‘I am a heathen’. Ernest took that as an invitation to tell her all about salvation. Maraea described her conversion experience: ‘One Friday night, 26 days after the Army began in Gisborne, I came forward and knelt at the front. They all prayed for me, but it was no good; my heart was stubborn. ‘I went home and prayed. Oh, what a miserable week I had! I couldn’t get rid of the Devil, and God wouldn’t have anything to do with me. Then the captain came and talked with me, and I told him some of my story. When I told him about my husband’s death, he saw that I was angry. He asked me could I forgive Te Kooti for Jesus’ sake? I said: “No!” Then he prayed for me to have the power to forgive my enemies, and all at once a light broke in upon me, and I cried for forgiveness. ‘I pardoned Te Kooti, and I felt my own sins were forgiven from that moment and I knew I was saved. After this I was so happy; I began to understand my Bible. I used to read the hymns and I prayed constantly.’ The transformation in Maraea was a miracle. She became highly respected and radiated light, described by some as a ‘veritable terror to evil-doers’. With her distinctive moko on her chin and Bible in hand, she told her story over and over again, even touring throughout New Zealand with Ernest Holdaway. She felt particularly called to urge Māori to come to Jesus. In September 1890, Maraea went to the Congress in Melbourne and shared her story. Her final words to those present were: ‘The God who saved me yonder in New Zealand is able to save you’.
Owning our actions The Crown officially apologised to the people of Parihaka in June 2017 and, as the then Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson read out the apology, people openly wept. Descendants from both sides of the events were present at the apology, and Warren Sisarich, whose great-great-grandfather was part of the constabulary who took part in the ransacking of the settlement said, ‘Maybe it’s time we started admitting our faults and seeking forgiveness and saying sorry.’
‘THEN HE PRAYED FOR ME TO HAVE THE POWER TO FORGIVE MY ENEMIES, AND ALL AT ONCE A LIGHT BROKE IN UPON ME, AND I CRIED FOR FORGIVENESS.’ 8 WarCry 02 NOVEMBER 2019
Maraea Moana Mahaki/Maraea Morris c.1890.
Chris Finlayson said, ‘Ultimately there can be no reconciliation where one party remembers while the other forgets.’ That has been one of the difficulties of Parihaka—for so long, the only ones remembering the actions that devastated an entire community of people, were the victims and their whānau. Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, set up to investigate allegations of human rights abuses during the apartheid era in South Africa. He said, ‘Without forgiveness, there is no future’. The process could not erase the actions of the past. It could not bring back those who had been killed. But what it could do is give a platform for those who were victims of the atrocities to be heard, to have their grief acknowledged and begin the process of reconciliation.
The courage to forgive There is no magic trick to forgiveness. For Maraea, she never heard Te Kooti acknowledge the pain and trauma his actions caused. She never received an apology from him. But, she still forgave him. She made a choice to forgive him for what he did; and that choice broke the chains of darkness over her life and let in the light. She had been a prisoner, bound by her anger, desire for revenge and grief; all the while, Te Kooti probably never gave her a second thought. What Maraea’s life demonstrates is that God is able to make a way, when it appears that there is no way. The Holy Spirit was able to help her ‘let go’ and experience real freedom. God’s love for Maraea was more powerful than her hatred for Te Kooti. Did she forget what happened? I don’t think anyone could ever forget something like that, but she was able to move on from the toxic emotions that unforgiveness breeds. If you’ve ever watched—and been terrified by—the movie Jaws, you know that it’s the soundtrack that causes all the emotional turmoil. Mute that and you have this weird— slightly soothing and definitely unrealistic—mechanical shark. It is as if the Holy Spirit pushed the mute button on the ‘soundtrack’ of her tragedy, allowing her to not be held hostage to the emotions of the events. Maya Angelou said: ‘You can’t forgive without loving. And I don’t mean sentimentality. I don’t mean mush. I mean having enough courage to stand up and say, “I forgive. I’m finished with it”.’ It was God’s love for, and forgiveness of, Maraea that changed her life. Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:44, ‘But I say,
love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!’ would have once felt impossible to Maraea. But as she grew in her faith and experienced transformation in her own life because of God’s love, what was once impossible would have become part of her testimony to the power of forgiveness.
Our future depends on it Richard Rohr said, ‘God created us for love, for union, for forgiveness and compassion, and, yet, that has not been our storyline. That has not been our history.’ Around the world, indigenous cultures have been on the receiving end of some dubious decisions by missionaries—representing the love of God and the person of Jesus. The Church partnered with the Crown and lost sight of the imago dei (image of God) in the people they were engaging with. Parihaka stands as a reminder to all New Zealanders that injustice is real—it scarred the land and the people of Taranaki for generations. It also reminds us of the power of the Gospel, of non-violent resistance in the face of brutality and, more importantly, of the power of forgiveness as the pathway to healing and restoration. Maraea Morris’ life is a beautiful picture of what happens when we forgive our tresspasses, and accept the forgiveness of God for ourselves. Peter asked Jesus how many times should he forgive someone who sinned against him. He offered seven as a possible number. But Jesus said, seventy times seven. Jesus wasn’t suggesting that Peter keep a tally until he reached 490, rather, that Peter needed to expand his heart and make room for grace and forgiveness the way God does with us. Forgiveness—it’s simple but not easy. Just ask the people of Parihaka and Maraea Morris.
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Helping Your Partner Seek Help
Mental health problems look different for every person, which makes it hard to know whether your partner is struggling. It could be a change in their appetite, drinking habits, hygiene or sleeping schedule. Maybe they are increasingly nervous, tired or forgetful. But if you’re worried that these changes in your partner’s behaviour might indicate that they are suffering, what next? How do you bring it up? How can you support them?
Safety First Short-temperedness is a common symptom of mental health struggles, but abusive behaviour is never okay, and it is important to know the difference. If your partner has become abusive, do not raise the topic of mental health with them, as it may aggravate them. Instead, seek help from family, professionals or authorities. An Educated Approach Don’t jump to conclusions. Make sure you do your research about their symptoms and what they might be suffering from—whether it is depression, anxiety or an eating disorder. If, after learning more, you are still concerned and decide to approach them, investigate some mental health resources within your budget (e.g. therapists, online courses, or free online/print resources from mental health organisations).
… THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO IS REASSURE THEM THAT YOU LOVE THEM, NO MATTER WHAT.
When you first talk to them, prepare yourself for any reaction, be it relief, anger or denial. Bringing up the topic should not feel like an accusation or intervention; put the emphasis on the changes in their behaviour rather than their personality. Never assume you know the extent of the situation—there may be another explanation for their behaviour, so be prepared to listen and let them explain what they are feeling. If they do not want to seek help, respect their choice. If they do, ask how they want to proceed, and how you can help them. Remember, you are not their therapist; the most important thing you can do is reassure them that you love them, no matter what. Supporting the Two of You It is okay to feel frustrated or tired when taking care of a partner with mental health problems. However, it is like the aeroplane safety videos say: you should not help anyone with their oxygen mask until your own is securely fastened. Likewise, you need to manage your own mental health and practice self-care before you can properly support your partner. Source: Harley Therapy Counselling Blog (www.harleytherapy.co.uk/counselling/partner-needs-therapy.htm)
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WHERE TO FROM HERE? Although mental health is slowly becoming less stigmatised, this does not mean it will be easy for your partner to cope with—or admit they are struggling with—mental health problems. It does mean you have more information to draw upon and help them through it. Here are some free mental health resources in New Zealand which you can look into: 1737, Need to Talk?—Call/Text 1737 (24/7) Depression Helpline—Call 0800 111 757 (24/7) Lifeline—Call 0800 543 354 (24/7) depression.org.nz Like Minds, Like Mine—likeminds.org.nz The Lowdown—thelowdown.co.nz
TESTIFY! Bob Sparkes was given 50–50 odds of surviving cancer, but he affirms that the power of prayer and the goodness of God brought him through. In October 2017, I went in for a routine colonoscopy and the surgeon found a tumour. All the way home, I remember singing ‘Come and Let Us Go Up (to the Mountain of the Lord)’. It was a Friday; I was planning to go in and retire on the Monday. I am part of the Miramar Corps. At church one Sunday, Major Shar Davis spoke about hope. At the end of the service, she put little cards up the front and asked us to take one. I thought to myself: ‘Don’t look at them. Trust that the Lord will help you pick the right one’. I picked up Psalm 55:22, ‘Cast all your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you, he will never let the righteous be shaken’. That greatly encouraged me. The following week, I was advised that the tumour was cancerous, and had spread from the bowel to my liver. The surgeon told my wife, Sheryl, and I that she thought something could be done, but she would have to check with her colleagues. I asked what my other options were. She said: ‘We make you comfortable’. All I could think was that I would have to make a DVD so my grandkids wouldn’t forget me. The surgeon rang us the following Friday and said her colleagues had agreed that we could fight the cancer. I would work one week, then the next I would have a two-hour chemotherapy session at the hospital and come home with an attachment in my arm which drip-fed treatment for forty hours. After three rounds of chemotherapy, I flew to Auckland for an embolisation of the liver. Following another three bouts, I was supposed to return to Auckland within six weeks for another operation. The date I was given was
I’D SAY TO SHERYL: ‘THE LORD HASN’T BROUGHT ME THROUGH THIS FAR TO FINISH WITH ME NOW.’ eight weeks away. Sheryl was a nurse, and she wasn’t happy with that length of time. We prayed and then rang the hospital in Auckland, and thankfully they gave us an earlier date. The surgeon had planned to take out 50 percent of my liver, but he had to take 60 percent, as well as my gall bladder. I had four more rounds of chemotherapy, which was challenging when my liver was only working at 40 percent capacity. I usually love my morning cup of tea, but it tasted horrible. I was forcing food down and went to bed in the afternoon. I went to the hospital twice to remove four litres of fluid from my stomach. I had to lie perfectly still for ten hours, wide awake, while the fluid slowly dripped out. Twice, I was sitting on the couch at night and my whole body seemed to stop. I
couldn’t breathe or blink, and thought I was on my way out. I just kept trusting the Lord. I’d say to Sheryl: ‘The Lord hasn’t brought me through this far to finish with me now’. In May 2018, I went back to have the original tumour removed. As a result of the prayer and chemotherapy, the surgeon couldn’t find it. All that was left was a little spot. She’d never seen that before. I had a few more hiccups and operations, but the Lord brought me through. God is so good—every day is a gift. I’ve had my follow-up tests, and everything is clear. My food tastes nice again, I can go for walks, and it’s just good to feel good. I’m so thankful to the Lord for Sheryl, for giving me the best surgeons, and to everyone who prayed for me—God does hear and answer prayer. 02 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 11
Anna Christiansen—Northern (Auckland City) Ben Clark—Central (Johnsonville) Ben Walker—Southern (Nelson Tasman Bays) Cody Clarke—Midland (Hamilton City) Josh Burns—Northern (Whangārei) Jake Walker—Southern (no corps in Motueka)
Firezone asked some young adults from around Aotearoa about their Congress experience…. Here’s what they had to say:
How did you get to Congress? Who did you travel with?
Cody: I travelled by van, with other yout h from Hamilton City. Ben W: I travelled up from Nelson with my parents in our car, and then on the ferry . It was cramped to the brim with all sort s of random luggage including two massive plants for some strange reason! Ben C: Claire Gardner drove me. Anna: I flew down from Auckland. Josh: I drove from Whangārei with Geor gia and Dania down to Auckland, and then flew down to Wellington. Jake: I travelled with my dad and sister in the car to Picton, and then we hopped on the Interislander.
ur Where have you wornfayo new TSA t-shirt so r?
house! Cody: Around the out on my free youth t-shirt y m e Ben W: I wor t back! first date when I go too long … one—the line was Ben C: I didn’t get usic m to kid’s club and Anna: I’ve worn it practice J didn’t grab one! Josh: Aww nuts! I n it yet… Jake: I haven’t wor
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How many slices o eat at the youthf pdizza did you inner? Cody: I didn’t get any L
Ben W: It wou ld’ve been rude and criminal no taste at least t to one of each fl avour … Ben C: About 4 or 5 … Anna: A coup le of slices—I’m not a big pizz Josh: Yeah ab a eater. out that … qu it e a lot eh! I kind count—oops! a lost Jake: 5 or 6 pi eces—can’t re member exact ly …
Did you get a selfie with the General? Why or why not?
Cody: No, but I was having a photo taken with his wife and he jumped in behind us! Ben W: The General actual ly asked for a selfie with me—so I did get a selfie wit h our general. Got to get the follows up on the gra m! Ben C: No—but I saw him acr oss the room … Anna: No I didn’t get a selfie with the General. He was busy talking to other you th from around the territory and I had to lea ve early because I was serving at Encounter Kid s. Josh: More like the Genera l got a selfie with us! Even made it onto his Insta—yeo w! Jake: Yes! I was part of a gro up that got a selfie with the General.
ificant God Did you have a signab t it? moment? Tell usthroou ugh the kids
God work Cody: I got to see eat to ds programme. Gr in the Encounter Ki es and from different plac see young people er nds worship togeth different backgrou k or w to ge ly a privile and it was definite with the kids. of the ing in the presence Ben W: I loved be le ay night when peop Spirit on the Saturd were d so many people were responding an nt of renewed right in fro being touched and God ly a reminder that my eyes! It was tru store in e d he’s got mor isn’t finished yet an my. Ar for The Salvation for his people and ngress! God moment at Co Anna: I did have a kend roughout the wee God spoke to me th The in ith w g is my callin that Kid’s ministry Salvation Army!
What’s your Congress highlight …
Cody: Meeting new people, and the cool kids I got to look after at Encounter Kids! Ben W: The Suva brass band was such a delight to listen to—they were a lot fun! I loved all the cultural aspects that were included at Congress, because it’s good to remember that The Salvation Army is made up of so many unique and wonderf ul people. Ben C: Being asked to MC alongside Mat Badger for the Friday night service was a pretty cool expe rience! Anna: I had an absolute ball of a time in Encounter Kids! My favourite time was hands down the Island Party we had on the Saturday night! So many laughs and so much fun! Josh: So many highlights! I loved the kota hitanga that was so present the whole weekend! The celebration of everyone’s different cultures was incre dible, and yet being together for the same purp ose made it so special to be part of. I was buzzing from the energy! I absolutely LOVED Māori Ministry leading worship on the Saturday night. I loved supp orting everyone who took part in the creative expo on Saturday. Another highlight was having new hope and excitement knowing of General Brian ’s passion for this generation of young people. He was so easy to relate to, both when talking in person and when he was preaching his on-fire sermons! Last but not least, I loved the opportunity to catc h up with so many friends from around the territory who I wouldn’t see if it wasn’t for events like Cong ress. Jake: My highlight was hanging out with friends and family from all around NZ that I don’t get to see very often.
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Congress Report ‘If you’ve been to one Congress you’ve been to them all’, may have rung true in the past, but this year’s Encounter Congress was something out of the ordinary—and not just because our international leaders General Brian and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle were the special guests—although their attendance certainly contributed. Be it Suva Central Corps brass band’s ability to get people up out of their seats and dancing in the aisles, or the powerful testimonies of radical transformation and amazing grace from Shane Pritchard (Wellington South Recovery Church), Rayray Connor (Epsom Lodge) and Pati Niusulu (Samoa Region)—the atmosphere of freedom in Christ was undeniable. Congress formally began on Thursday with Leaders’ Councils during the day, before the first public event—Cultural Encounter night, featuring prayer in many languages and colourful, vibrant cultural items celebrating Fiji, Tonga and Samoa. The work God is doing through those serving in each island nation was also showcased and celebrated. A deeply thought-provoking presentation from Māori Ministry contextualising William Booth’s famous ‘I’ll Fight’ quote within Aotearoa, culminated in the invitation to participate in a mass haka. Salvationists poured onto the stage in support of the urgent call to be the Army that brings life to Māori, so they are not just recipients of our services, but participants and leaders in mission. The resulting haka was spine-tingling, with the crowd erupting in applause as it concluded. The General shared a powerful message about the Army’s global engagement in unimaginable brokenness and human need. He highlighted that 56,000 salvationists live in Pakistan—one of the top ten hardest places to be a Christian— and called us to ‘get our DNA out and shake it off!’ He spoke transparently about no longer seeing the world as he once did, and of how his own protected Caucasian framework 14 WarCry 02 NOVEMBER 2019
has enlarged. ‘I refuse to see boarders and choose to be nonjudgemental and to appreciate my brothers and sisters. I forget I’m Canadian! I even forget I’m white!’ the General declared. ‘We need to break down barriers and get past hurdles and things others put in the too hard basket. We need to ask, ‘what can I do to bring hope and dignity to the world? Jesus came to seek and save the lost and I’m calling The Salvation Army in these days to step up and step out and be ready. God help us!’ An all-age family encounter service took place on Friday evening complete with wobble-bobble balls—proving that an Army that plays together stays together. Kicked off with family worship using incredible visuals, followed by a stunning video testimony from young artist Jay, from Miramar Corps, the climax of the evening was a beautiful portrayal of the story of the Good Shepherd presented by Hannah Medland, Territorial Children’s Mission Director. A series of ‘wondering questions’ ended the evening, reminding us that God is perfectly fine with our child-like questions and ponderings—not everything needs to be tied up with a neat theological bow—mystery and wonder are important parts of faith too. Saturday night’s ‘Encounter Celebration’ was a stellar line-up of entertainment, encouragement, inspiration and exhortation. Worship throughout the evening was led beautifully by Māori Ministry, with Captain Hana Seddon (Divisional Secretary Northern Division Māori Ministry) formally introducing the new Divisional Māori Ministry Secretaries and wider Māori Ministry council to the territory.
A moving part of the evening was the presentation of ‘Recognition of Service’ certificates by Commissioners Andy and Yvonne Westrupp, to Salvationists from across the territory. Recipients had been nominated by corps officers and other key leaders. The live performance of ‘Abide with Me’ by Le Art (Offering Project) was a class act. And while our own SpiritSong might not have the same level of exposure, their beautiful rendition of ‘Faithful to the End’ held its own and complimented the Candidates Department’s ‘I’m saying yes’ presentation by officers, cadets and candidates. The General followed with another strong word, based around answering the questions posed to us in Deuteronomy 10:13—what does the Lord require of us? ‘If you have the hope of glory in your heart, then you also have a call to service and ministry. There is no separation between God calling you to faith and sending you into service,’ the General declared. The Michael Fowler Centre was filled with Salvationists for Sunday morning’s ‘Sending Out’ service, as corps from Central Division joined those attending the whole weekend. It included sung worship, prayer, the launch of the new territorial ‘We Commit’ plan by Andy and Yvonne, and powerful testimonies. The spectacular Recovery Church anthem—written by Lieut-Colonel Lynette Hutson and Captain Rance Stuart to the tune of ‘Eye of the Tiger’—had us all singing along. And the scene was set for a final word from the General. Each time the General spoke, the mercy seat and aisles were full, and Sunday morning was no exception. ‘Stop limiting the Almighty,’ he declared. ‘And don’t you dare say it can’t be done or they can’t be redeemed. No! Our God is the God of the impossible. And he is more than comfortable walking around in our impossible gardens. He’s not intimidated!’ Posted almost immediately on Facebook was the General’s urgent injunction for us to ‘be preoccupied with the possibilities of grace and engaged in costly compassion!’ Drawing on Joshua 3 he called everyone present to consecrate themselves like the Israelites as they stood on the edge of the river. ‘Never been this way before?’ the General asked. ‘Good! Consecrate yourself today because tomorrow you need to go stand in the river. Tomorrow New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa you need to go back home! What are you prepared to do? How available will you be? How obedient? Please allow God’s revolutionary work to transform you so we can be rivers of grace in a broken world. Holy Spirit fall afresh!’ BY JULES BADGER
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Recapping the 2019 Mission Conference Held on the Friday and Saturday of Encounter Congress, the 2019 Mission Conference was a chance to learn about and reflect on how we engage with our neighbouring communities through prayer and outreach. Each day began with morning worship, supported by a stellar music team, and a Keynote Address. On Friday morning, Pastor Tak Bhana, senior pastor of Church Unlimited, spoke passionately about the power of prayer, and the importance of fervently praying for those around us. Citing the increasing disaffiliation of the general public and the church within our territory, he encouraged attendees to pray and transform situations that seem impossible. ‘A revived church is the greatest gift we can give New Zealand,’ Tak said—explaining how the church loses ground when it does not pray, but experiences victory when it does. Friday afternoon saw attendees split into elective groups. In the first session, the topics of mental health and how to engage the next generation were explored, along with a Q&A with International Leaders. Within the next round of topics, attendees heard about empowering seniors, faith and belief in New Zealand, or how God is working in the Pacific Islands. The General sat in the ‘hot seat’, answering pre-submitted questions with Major Christina Tyson facilitating. Topics included gender equity, engaging with millennials, the differences between the West and Africa/India with regard to discipleship, what it looks like to make children and youth a priority, the officer appointing system, and how we provide safe environments for LGBTQI people within our corps and centres. Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics Practitioner Kathryn Berkett spoke about how communities—including churches— can help people build mental resilience. She suggested ways to identify when someone is getting anxious, talked through the brain’s response in these situations, and explored how we need 16 WarCry 02 NOVEMBER 2019
to change our perspective so that we can remain calm and help to lower their stress levels. Raki Wiringi, GODtalk NZ National Director, reminded attendees that 90 percent of people who come to faith do so before they turn 20. Social pressures and a decline in Christian groups within schools make for a tough environment, so it is necessary to use new ways of sharing the gospel. He shared resources which GODtalk produce that are free and available to all, which include videos and ideas which can equip us to reach the younger generation. Mandated a decade ago by the Northern Division to build a senior-focused corps, Major Janee Sawyer explained that the territory’s focus on reaching young people has resulted in the unintended but very real marginalisation of seniors. A helpful example of this was the common practice of grouping anyone aged between 70–100 as ‘Senior’, without realising the vast difference between an able-bodied ‘Young Senior’ in their 70s wanting to serve, and a less mobile ‘Real Senior’ in their 90s simply requiring a decent prayer list! Describing seniors as a ‘valuable resource’ of prayer, giving and wisdom, Janee shared inspiring stories of seniors reaching other seniors—just in time to meet Jesus! Chris Clarke, Executive Director of Global Local, presented on the ‘Faith and Belief in New Zealand’ report produced by the Wilberforce Foundation in Auckland. While the disclosed declining percentage of New Zealanders identifying as Christians was not surprising, there were several lightbulb moments as Chris explored why and how this happened. He challenged the room to re-engage with society differently and live out Christianity through the values that Jesus taught.
Representatives from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa gave joyful, upbeat reports of how God is at work in their countries. ‘We cannot share the gospel to someone with an empty belly,’ said representatives from Fiji. ‘First they need our love and caring.’ Fiji gave the example of a group of young men who have left behind criminal activity to find a safe place at a Salvation Army youth group. Tonga expressed their prayer to see more Pacific Islanders filling leadership roles around the territory. Lieut-Colonel Rod Carey thanked the Prime Minister of Samoa, Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi for his vision for a Samoan Salvation Army, and shared about the many services they have been able to set up in their short history. On the second day of the conference, Pastor Nick Field of Wellington’s The Street Church shared about organic outreach, challenging those in attendance about why Christians do not share the word with those around them. ‘When you have a deep experience with something, you can’t help but share it,’ he said. He explained how evangelism should be a natural outflow of a person who loves God, rather than an obligation. Pastor Nick described what organic outreach looks like in practice within his church, and the purpose of building relationships, so that when outreach moments arise, we are ready to share with our neighbours. After morning tea, everyone remained in the auditorium to hear three ‘short talks’. Brook Turner, Head of Community Services Development at VisionWest Community Trust, began by explaining the importance of working with people in need and letting them write their own stories. He talked about how New Zealand’s welfare system is reactive rather than proactive, and often reduces people to beneficiaries or recipients (of special needs grants) rather than human beings. Alastair Kendrew, Territorial Corps Growth Director, spoke about four ‘dumb things we do’ in churches, which make it difficult for people to join and turn to God: example without words, doing things well without intention or a plan, Monday without Sunday, and welcome without belonging. To close out the conference, Territorial Children’s Mission Director Hannah Medland spoke passionately about how we can be #forourneighbourhoods. Using the example of how Miramar Corps have made a deliberate effort to both invite their community into their church with tailored events, as well as be present within the community outside of church. She reminded us that God sent Jesus and the Holy Spirit, but he also sent us. This strategy is about letting our communities know all the things that our churches are for, rather than against, and that we are for them. This conference was a great challenge to shift our inward focus towards prayer, and our outward focus to our communities. BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER
Special Thanks to Captain Paul Gardner and Harrison Bellve for assisting the Comms Team with additional photography over Congress weekend.
GAZETTE Additional Appointment: Effective immediately, Lieutenant Sarah Green is appointed Director, Kāpiti Community Ministries, Central Division. Bereavement: Major Iliese Cola, of her step-mother Laisiana Vunissere from Nadi on Wednesday 2 October 2019. Please uphold Major Iliesa Cola and other family members in your prayers during this time of grief and loss. Bereavement: Major Valerie Tong, of her father Jim Clarke from Auckland on Tuesday 8 October 2019. Please uphold Jim’s wife Joyce, and children Major Valerie Tong, Brian, Barbara and Elizabeth and other family members in your prayers during this time of grief and loss. Appointment: Effective 9 January 2020 following her Commissioning, Lieutenant Miriam Choi of the Messengers of Compassion—Ngā Karere o te Arohanui Session is appointed Assistant Officer, Palmerston North Corps, Central Division. Appointment: Effective 1 February 2020, Colonels Julie and Mark Campbell officers of the Australia Territory currently serving respectively as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries in that territory are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory. They will take up their new appointments with the rank of Commissioner. International Service Rescindment: Further to the Bulletin on 16 April 2019, announcing the appointment of Major Rebecca Samuel and Major Samuel John Mubarik to serve in the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory as Assistants to the Chief Secretary, we now advise that due to not being able to secure the required visas to serve in New Zealand, their appointment has now regrettably been rescinded. Please pray for God’s continued peace and blessing upon Major Rebecca Samuel and Major Samuel Mubarik as they process this news and prepare for a different appointment.
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Just Action 2019
The recent Just Action Conference confirmed the church as the rightful place to pressure society on issues affecting those in poverty. But it also urged persistence to action real social change. During her opening address, Hon. Poto Williams, Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, said four-year-old James Whakaruru—killed by Benny Haerewa in 1999—was one of the reasons she entered into Parliament. His death served as a motivation for her work in the area of family violence. Poto spoke about her Government’s focus on wellbeing and said it couldn’t achieve its goals in this area alone. ‘Collaboration is the way to achieve wellbeing goals: NGOs must have equality with Government. The partnerships can only come with true equality and that takes trust,’ she said. ‘We now need more than hope; we need action. Together we have a chance.’ Jay Ruka, author of Huia Come Home, grew up in the church, but it wasn’t until he was 30 that he heard the story of Christianity in Aotearoa for the first time. The revelation made him both ‘angry and ecstatic’ and led him to celebrate and critique the work of Christianity in Aotearoa. Jay believes many New Zealanders have come to see the English and Māori versions 18 WarCry 02 NOVEMBER 2019
of the Treaty of Waitangi as a deliberate misinterpretation by missionary Henry Williams—thanks to an article by Ruth Ross in 1972 that brought attention to the Māori text of the Treaty. ‘A lot of Māori felt let down by the missionaries, but Henry Williams was our friend,’ he said. TEAR fund CEO Ian McInnes took conference participants on a journey through two projects the Christian charity is involved in—anti-trafficking in Thailand, and a milk co-op in Indonesia. Speaking on the topic of ‘Framing the disruptive voice: Faith, hope and Charity’ Ian illustrated the seven lessons when tackling an issue, including choosing a problem no one else is solving, playing to your strengths, going ‘all in’ and not blinking, and living your faith in the open.
Major Ian Gainsford concluded the session by saying The Salvation Army was looking to ‘disrupt social inertia’. ‘We need to be bolder, we need to risk a little bit of insurrection. The just God is calling us into action,’ he said. Laidlaw College principal Roshan Allpress explained that ethics are developed by paying attention. The Good Samaritan saw a person made in God’s image—he paid attention to what mattered. Tracing the history and complex nature of the abolition of the slave trade—and the role of Christians in that unfolding story—Roshan demonstrated that significant social change takes generations. ‘For Aotearoa then, what are the stories/issues that The Salvation Army needs to be paying attention to? What are you called to learn and pass on to your children, so that social change is achieved?’ Major Sue Hay, Director of Northland Bridge, presented a thorough and disturbing snapshot of current statistics pertaining to alcohol and drug. use in Aotearoa. In NZ a $150 million per year is spent on alcohol advertisement, and $85 million a week is spent on alcohol. We have 775,000 hazardous drinkers, with a third of all arrests being alcohol related. Sue revealed that supermarkets are the biggest peddlers of drugs with alcohol sales reaching record levels in 2018. Kiwi are spending 1.4 million a day for meth—and users include professionals, models, truck drivers, jockeys, mothers at parties, teenagers and addicts. But Sue spoke about the power of community, suggesting that the opposite of addiction is not sobriety, but connection. Lieut-Colonel Lynette Hutson further unpacked this idea with stories of the Army’s work with the Notorious chapter of the Mongrel Mob, and the crucial role of connection to whakapapa and culture in the healing process. Major Campbell Roberts and Alan Johnson spoke on the topic of ‘Doing
Justice: the Policy Challenge’ in particular relating it to the KiwiBuy campaign— waged to encourage the Government to adopt a rent-to-buy scheme, which it recently did. ‘We live in a confused world of crisis, where there is questionable leadership around the world—poverty, hunger, climate change, racism, materialism and violence,’ Campbell said. ‘The Salvation Army is a pretty bold name. We have to reform, redeem, change.’ Campbell wanted to put fire in the bellies of all Salvationists to be vocal to politicians and activate for social change. [All Salvationists] ‘need to question policies that marginalise people and sin against people who cannot experience abundant life,’ he said. Alan Johnson said, ‘One of the things I find most encouraging about the Army is that we always give people a second chance. That’s what we need in society. Remain hopeful and provide a vision of a better world.’ Major Dr Harold Hill noted the importance of forums like Just Action and Thought Matters for giving space for salvationists to think about why we do what we do. ‘We don’t talk enough about theology in The Salvation Army. Just because doctrine was written hundreds of years ago doesn’t make it the best theology. Theology is faith seeking understanding.’ Other speakers included Julianne Hikey, Director of Caritas NZ, Prof. Chris Marshall, Colonel Margaret and (then) Mayor of Wellington, Justin Lester. A fuller report on the conference and content is available online www. salvationarmy.org.nz/news/just-action-2019 BY LOUISE PARRY
‘CHALLENGES FROM JUST ACTION AND CONGRESS’ Just Action and Congress challenged me … We need to get serious about prayer. At Mission Conference, Pastor Tak Bhana testified to the outpouring of the power of God when his people prayed. When his church saw a drop in the number of people turning to Jesus, Tak called the church to prayer and fasting. This resulted in many people coming into relationship with God. Imagine how God might bless us, if each of us begin to humbly pray, seek God and turn from doing the things he hates? I am reminded of the principle in 2 Chronicles 7:14. We can impact our communities more effectively. Hannah Medland shared that the number one reason churches die is because they focused on their own needs instead of the needs of others. Pastor Nick Field put it this way, ‘We are so often consumed by the work within the church that we have no time for the work of the church’. Chris Clarke revealed that, ‘New Zealanders crave authentic relationship … and are increasingly open to having a spiritual conversion … but many don’t know any Christians.’ God has placed us within a neighbourhood and commanded us to ‘go and make disciples’. So what can we do? 1. Shift our focus from within the church into our communities. 2. Make authentic relationships with people outside the church, in our neighbourhood, workplace, gym, sports club and in our place of learning. 3. Check out how Miramar Corps changed towards being the church in their community, rather than expecting their community to come to church. Google #ForMiramar. Te Tiriti o Waitangi is part of our spiritual heritage. Speaking at Just Action, Jay Ruka enlightened novices like me about how events leading to Te Tiriti o Waitangi brought about a desire in Henry Williams to protect Māori from such injustices and ensure equality. The result should have been a blending of the best of western philosophy and Māori thoughts and concepts. Instead, there is inequity. As I listened, I was reminded of the mega story of God, who models justice and mercy and requires that of us (Micah 6:8). Williams was striving for that, but sadly, we dropped the ball. The Salvation Army is picking up this ball, as signalled in the ‘We Commit’ statements released at Congress. Criticism is killing us. Pastor Nick Field shared a parable of a wedding guest criticising the bride, paralleling this with Christians who criticise the church as if they hate it. It’s time for us to love our part of the God’s church or leave it! I’ve got a few things to pray about and then take action. What about you? Major Allan Clark Territorial Secretary for Business Administration 02 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 19
I knew where I was going. I had been there once before, months ago. When I left my office on that steamy Friday during my lunch break to make a quick trip to my friend’s office, I knew it would be easy to find. It was her birthday and I wanted to surprise her by dropping off her gift at work. BY SHARMA TAYLOR
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I mentally mapped out my route. I would turn right at the gas station and then take an immediate left into her building, which had a beautiful, red brick wall. I got to the gas station within 10 minutes, relieved that midday traffic hadn’t started to pile up yet. Then I saw it. There was no right turn at the gas station. Where the right turn should have been was a household supply store and an entrance into a mall. Huh? This made no sense. How could a road just disappear and be replaced with buildings? Most people at this point would have used GPS or a map app on their phone. But the problem was I had a conspiracy theorist’s aversion to having my location and movements fed into a database somewhere and paranoia about loss of privacy. I couldn’t call my friend, as that would tip her off that I was coming. I remembered the general number for my friend’s office, dialled it on my cell, and when the receptionist answered, I told her my dilemma and my location. I had parked in the parking lot of the supply store. ‘No problem,’ she said. ‘Just get back to the main road and take the first left after the gas station.’ ‘You mean right, don’t you?’ That was what I remembered from last time.
THE BIBLE USES THE METAPHOR OF JESUS AS A SHEPHERD TENDING SHEEP AND WHEN ONE GETS LOST, HE LEAVES THE 99 SHEEP BEHIND TO SEEK OUT THE MISSING ONE. ‘No. Left.’ I was uneasy. Left didn’t make sense. I hesitated. She, understandably, became annoyed at my resistance. We were at a stalemate. Finally, she said: ‘I don’t know what else to tell you.’ ‘Ok. Ok.’ I said finally. I gave in. I could either trust her or stay lost. Clearly, the right turn would, once again, lead me nowhere. So despite my instincts, I turned left at the gas station, then followed the directions as she gave them to me on the phone. I then drove into a narrow lane lined by squat, stone buildings and then took a right. Almost magically there was her office on the right. There was the lovely red wall. I slowly realised what had happened. The last time I came I had taken another road. A road that was right next to, and parallel to, the one I took this time. One that also had a gas station. On Friday, I was on the wrong road, at the wrong gas station, not knowing where I was. I thought about how sure I had been that I was on the right road. I was positive. I would have been looking for that right turn forever if I didn’t come to the realisation that what I thought I knew must be wrong and I was totally lost. Sounds familiar?
Getting Lost in Life We all feel overwhelmed at times. Other times, we believe we have it all together. After all, we’re adults. And a hallmark of adulthood is being independent. Being able to autonomously act. We make choices about what we do and where we’re going. We use the facts available to us and our best judgement in making small and big decisions. How do I handle this file at work? How will I deal with this difficult co-worker? How do I address this problem with my
child or spouse? How do I let this relative or friend know how I feel about what they did or didn’t do? The things we have to make decisions on are endless. Sometimes we get it wrong. And sometimes we just don’t know what to do. What worked last time, doesn’t work this time and before we know it, we are lost. We can no longer trust our knowledge or experience. In unfamiliar territory, we keep looking for a right turn that doesn’t exist. The Bible (Luke 15: 3–7) uses the metaphor of Jesus as a shepherd tending sheep and when one gets lost, he leaves the 99 sheep behind to seek out the missing one. He is that serious about finding lost people—those who are Christians who have sinned or have turned away from him and need to return to the fold; plus those who have never been a part of his flock. There is no decision, small or large, that you need to feel lost or stuck on. There is no place in your life you need to feel lost. We are like the people of Nineveh who God described as not knowing their right hand from their left (Jonah 4:11). There’s a way that seems right to us, but in the end leads to destruction (Proverbs 14:12). It starts by just recognising that you are lost. Admitting that you need Jesus and that He is the only one who can help you. Ask him to show you his paths (Psalm 25: 4–5). The next key is to listen to his voice as he guides you, follow his directions despite what you may think is best: ‘Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it”’ (Isaiah 30:21). Then you’ll end up exactly where you’re supposed to be. Christiantoday.com.au 02 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 21
400–600 words with one or two captioned photos. Promotion to Glory tributes are approx 300 words. Email reports and large, high-quality jpeg images to: warcry@ salvationarmy.org.nz
Find SALVATION ARMY JOB OPPORTUNITIES: salvationarmy.org.nz/employment
PRAY Blenheim
Corps, BMAC, BCM, Bridge Recovery Churches and Candidates Department; The Salvation Army in Nigeria, Norway, Iceland and the Faeroes.
OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Andy (Territorial Commander) and Yvonne Westrupp (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 8 November: Official Opening of Royal Oak ‘Te Hononga Tangata’ with Prime Minister, Auckland 9–12 November: Governance Board Review—Midland, Hamilton Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Territorial Secretary for Programme & Communications) 3 November: Westport Corps visit 8 November: Official Opening of Royal Oak ‘Te Hononga Tangata’ with Prime Minister, Auckland 10 November: Thames Corps visit 10–12 November: Governance Board Review—Midland, Hamilton Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 8 November: Official Opening of Royal Oak ‘Te Hononga Tangata’ with Prime Minister, Auckland 10–12 November: Governance Board Review—Midland, Hamilton
PRAY Blenheim Corps, BMAC, BCM, Bridge Recovery Churches and Candidates Department; The Salvation Army in Nigeria, Norway, Iceland and the Faeroes.
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Kids RECAP
I wonder if you got to go to Encounter Kids 2019. If you did, you would have discovered a fun filled action-packed couple of days. Oh my gosh, yes! We were surely seen and heard! The only way to be kids these days. We had a worship band that led some pretty cool songs. One of the favourite songs was ‘I raise a hallelujah’. Have you heard it? It’s amazing! If you haven’t, ask an adult to play it for you. We listened to stories, we watched video stories and we saw acted-out stories reminding us of how Jesus always had time for people and looked after people—and how we can be For our Neighbourhood. There’s lots of kids who are lonely and we can be their friends. We could write letters to God and the General, stack paper cups, do artwork and heaps more. And then there was the Pacific Island Party Night on Saturday. Wow! The cool leaders dressed up in Island shirts and skirts, and we could wear Island leis. We danced to the songs of ‘Moana’. We even got to ride on a mechanical surfboard. That was amazing. Some kids stayed on for over three minutes. One of the best things was the ice cream sundaes served from the caravan. Yummy! Maybe some parents thought we were just being looked after while they were in the adult sessions. But we weren’t being looked after at all; we were worshipping and praising God; we were learning about Jesus and how we can love our neighbours; we were finding ways to respond to what God was saying to us; and we were having so much fun. At one point there were over 100 kids—that was the Pacific Island Party Night. If you were too young to go to the big kids’ programme, then there was a programme just for preschoolers. That was way cool as well. Oh, and we went go-cart racing and learnt about space at the Carter Observatory. At one point, the General of The Salvation Army—the top guy— came in to say ‘Hi’ and see what was happening. One question I have is: ‘When is the next one?’ 02 NOVEMBER 2019 WarCry 23