13 June 2015 NZFT War Cry

FAITH IN ACTION | 13 June 2015 | Issue 6619 | $1.50

Celebrating 150 YEARS Internationally

June20

WORLD REFUGEE DAY

NEIL & GILL WAUGH:

BEARD CARE FOR MODERN MEN STEVE’S MARATHON TO BEAT GAMBLING PSLAMS OF VENGEANCE EXCITING SHOPPING AT BOUNDLESS TEENS AND THEIR SCREENS NEW SALVATION ARMY SONGBOOK

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Kia ora Choose wisely WAR CRY

The Salvation Army Te Ope Whakaora New Zealand, Fiji & Tonga Territory FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Robert Donaldson 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.

EDITOR

Major Christina Tyson GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lauren Millington, Amber Wilkinson STAFF WRITERS

Ingrid Barratt, Robin Raymond, Vanessa Singh CONTRIBUTORS

Kris Singh (music reviewer)

PROOF READING

Major Jill Gainsford OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 Phone (04) 384 5649 Fax (04) 382 0716 Email warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department Phone (04) 382 0768 Email mailorder@nzf.salvationarmy.org $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT MakeReady | www.makeready.co.nz

For a change, I’d like to start at the back of this edition, with our Firezone article on lessons from The Bachelor NZ, with Ingrid Barratt suggesting some dos and don’ts of dating. Many of these are contrary to what we saw as Art Green made his way through his Bachelor harem before offering his final rose to Matilda Rice.

According to Timothy Keller, author of The Meaning of Marriage, one of the challenges for people looking for marriage partners today is that our culture makes individual freedom, autonomy and personal fulfilment the highest values in life, whereas Keller says that ‘thoughtful people know deep down that any love relationship means the loss of all three’. He writes, ‘You can say, “I want someone who will accept me just as I am,” but in your heart of hearts you know that you are not perfect—that there are plenty of things about you that need to be changed, and that anyone who gets to know you up close and personal will want to change them.’

Keller adds, ‘Both men and women today see marriage not as a way of creating character and community but as a way to reach personal life goals. They are looking for a marriage partner who will “fulfil their emotional, sexual and spiritual desires”.

And that creates an extreme idealism that in turn leads to a deep pessimism that you will ever find the right person to marry.’

And so, we return to the front of this edition and the story of Salvation Army officers Majors Gill and Neil Waugh. As they confront the challenges of Neil’s cancer, Gill and Neil are drawing on their deep love for one another and their trust of God. I’m sure our readers will want to pray for Gill and Neil —some of you already are. And dating couples may like to consider their example, to remind them of the importance of looking for someone who will stick by them in the good and the bad times of life. And whom they have no qualms about offering the same commitment to in return.

Christina Tyson Editor

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All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated.

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BIBLE VERSE ‘I depend on you, and I have trusted you since I was young.’

‘Ko koe nei hoki, e te Ariki, e Ihowā, tāku e tumanako atu nei, tāku e whakawhirinaki nei nō tōku tamarikitanga ake anō.’

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Publishing for 132 years

ISSN 0043-0242, Issue 6619 Please pass on or recycle this magazine

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salvationarmy.org.nz

WISE WORDS

I must have the Saviour with me, For my faith at best is weak; He can whisper words of comfort That no other voice can speak Fanny Crosby The Salvation Army Song Book

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Photography: by Ulet Ifansasti / iStockphoto

Let’s Talk | 03

BY ROBIN RAYMOND

N

ext Saturday, 20 June, is World Refugee Day. Looking at the increasing stories of refugee misery on the news, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless.

According to the United Nations High Council for Refugees (UNHCR), there are 12.8 million refugees and asylum seekers worldwide and 42.8 million stateless and internally displaced people (refugees in their own country). About 180,000 urgently need resettling. About 80,000 a year are resettled.

New Zealand is not a big destination for refugees. We have an agreement with UNHCR to take 750 refugees a year under a quota system (although we don’t always fill that quota), and up to 300 family members of refugees already here.

In addition to our quota, about 300 people a year make their own way here to ask for asylum, which is usually granted for about 100, says Salvation Army Wellington Community Ministries Director Tim O’Donovan. Tim used to be the general manager of Change Makers Refugee Forum.

In total, we take about 1500 refugees and asylum seekers annually. In comparison, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia together host just under one million refugees and asylum seekers. Australia has 48,700 and takes in 13,750 new refugees.

Successive New Zealand governments have insisted we’re doing our bit—pointing out that of the 26 countries who take quota refugees we’re among the 10 who take the most. Compare us with the whole world, though, and we sit at number 97 for the number of refugees we have compared to our population.

There’s no simple solution, but we cannot forget these are human beings in a desperate situation. They are our neighbours going through extreme suffering, and for Christians, the Bible is clear—we cannot look away. Then there’s the uncomfortable truth that we contribute to problems like poverty that create and exacerbate the wars and persecution

refugees are fleeing. We do this through things like buying unethical clothes, food, drink and electronic gadgets. In the face of that, doing nothing is morally bankrupt. Or, as Tim says, ‘From a humanitarian perspective and a Christian perspective there’s no question about whether we should be supporting these people. My question would be, “Are we doing enough?” ’ So, what can we do? To fight the long-term problem, we need to have the courage to combat problems like poverty and help people have a life where they don’t need to flee their homes.

The good news is Kiwis are pretty generous giving to charities and there are some great initiatives out there we can get behind.

The Salvation Army is acting to help the immediate problem. As part of a wider initiative, its Community Ministries is developing an action plan for how best to respond to people with a refugee background. In Wellington, Community Ministries also works with the Refugee Family Reunification Trust and Catholic Social Services to support newly arrived family members, who don’t qualify for the help the Government provides to refugees to settle here.

Many refugees are highly educated people and, despite some negative stereotypes, most have a lot to contribute to New Zealand, Tim says.

‘The vast majority of people I met were people who wanted to make a contribution and give something back, but you have got to provide the foundations for people to step up. There’s no question in my mind, if we provide those initial support mechanisms, people who come in as refugees will make a positive impact in our communities and society. If you look at people that came in after World War II—Poles, Hungarians, Jews—they have gone on to build something of their lives and their community. We ned to be offering recent arrivals the same opportunities.’

04 WarCry 13 June 2015

Bookshelf Christian Life Making a Real Difference George Bryant In Making a Real Difference George Bryant introduces readers to Christians who have shaken up New Zealand society for the better.

He interviews a judge, a leading scientist, a top journalist, doctors, a prison reformer and others.

Major Campbell Roberts, founding director of The Salvation Army’s Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit, tells how God showed him his life needed to be about confronting evil and injustice, ensuring people’s lives were not miserable and hopeless. This book bears out James 2:17, that unless faith is accompanied by action, it’s dead.

(Daystar Books, order by emailing the author: BryantGW@xtra.co.nz)

Playlist

Biography Making Champion Men Billy Graham with Phil Gifford Published a few years ago, this book deserves to be on New Zealand bookshelves. Award-winning sports journalist Phil Gifford brings his considerable talents to bear to tell the story of Billy Graham, one of New Zealand’s remarkable youth work success stories. At the Naenae Boxing Acadamy (once home to The Salvation Army), Billy transforms young men with no self-belief into confident young men looking forward to the future. Billy’s own childhood was a troubled one, until he found boxing and Jesus Christ.

He shares his journey and his heart for male role models who will believe in even the most troubled youth. (Hodder Moa)

Personal Growth Keep it Shut Karen Ehman Gossip is one of those insidious sins that takes root so easily and, as Karen Ehman points out, it’s something that can be a real problem for women. She offers some great strategies for taming the tongue, noting the difference between gossip and properly processing things with a trusted friend. Ehman suggests how we can pause before we pounce, how to avoid saying something permanently painful just because we are temporarily annoyed, and wonderful ways to use our words.

Great advice, with plenty of biblical examples, for keeping your lips zipped. An easy and inspiring read.

(Zondervan)

Reel News

Indie Rock How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful Florence and the Machine How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful is Florence and the Machine’s third studio record. The English indie rock band is fronted by namesake Florence Welch, and is hallmarked once again by her powerful, distinctive vocal style. This is a robust and varied record. Though it never strays too far from its soulful, indie rock tinged roots, How Big colours this sound with horns and strings, and thick, lush vocal harmonies. This is best seen in the title track, as well as the soulful ballad ‘Queen of Peace’. There is a spiritual depth and maturity here, and fans of Florence and the Machine will find a lot to like here.

A solid and dynamic record that’s a satisfying listen.

Indie/Worship Empires Hillsong United Any Hillsong release is significant given their global influence on the worship music environment.

Empires knowingly discards that label, choosing to articulate the prayers and meditations of a group of talented songwriters, regardless of who might be listening or why.

It’s a progression from 2013’s Zion, partnering layered synths against an electro-indie backdrop. Lyrically, Empires leans to the poetic and personal, but tracks like ‘Here and Now (Madness)’ have potential for congregational settings. The cover’s dualistic themes reflect the push-and-pull between the current worship music scene and where United is going as a brand.

GIVEAWAY To win a copy of Making a Real Difference, tell us someone you know who is making a positive difference.

War Cry Giveaway, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wgtn 6141 or email warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org. Entries close 29 June.

Do I Die Today? winner is: Mike Bryan

Sci-fi Adventure Tomorrowland Brad Bird / PG (Violence and coarse language) With all the doom and gloom, apocalyptic teen-focused films of the past few years, it’s refreshing to see Disney bucking the trend to share a positive message of hope.

Tomorrowland stars George Clooney as Frank Walker who, in 1964, travels to an alternate dimension where the boy genius befriends a girl called Athena (Raffey Cassidy). After being exiled from Tomorrowland by Governor Nix (Hugh Laurie), the much older and grumpier Frank is tracked down by brilliant and feisty teenager Casey Newton (Britt Robertson) after she discovers a Tomorrowland pin that gives her a glimpse of a better world.

While the rest of the world is seemingly willing to give in to global pessimism and violent social catastrophe, it seems Casey has the hope and imagination that might just turn the tide.

There’s a lot here for older children and teens to like: jet packs, creepy smiling robots, slap-stick fights, hidden rooms, explosions, a rocket-powered bath, oodles of gadgets, and even a hidden space ship in the Eiffel Tower. It’s also good to see two strong female characters.

But it’s the message of the movie that wins the day. Every day we’re faced with the choice between living lives coloured by darkness and despair, or by lightness and hope. And, as Casey’s NASA engineer father taught her: the one that wins is the one we feed!

Tomorrowland is a long movie at 130 minutes, but it moves along at a good pace, with plenty of surprises along the way. This is a refreshingly good family movie that assures kids it’s okay to be smart and creative. In fact, that may yet be this world’s saving grace.

Go to www salvationarmy.org.nz/saresources

Feature | 05

Last year, corps officers Neil and Gill Waugh celebrated Neil’s healing from cancer. Last month, they received the grave news that his cancer had spread. But Neil and Gill say they are living in God’s lounge room—enjoying his presence, holding on to his promises and praying the big prayers.

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eil and Gill Waugh, corps officers at Belfast Corps, shared many similarities in their early years. They were both brought up by loving Christian parents. Both of them felt God’s call on them to become Salvation Army officers in their teen years. But perhaps most spectacularly, both had fathers who experienced miraculous healings from cancer.

Gill’s parents were Salvation Army officers. When Gill was eight years old, her father, Ray Knight, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. After six weeks in hospital, the situation was critical. But a friend visited the hospital, anointed Ray with oil and prayed. What followed was a healing that can only be described as miraculous.

‘The specialist wrote “miracle” on Dad’s records and we had another 35 years with him before he died,’ Gill recalls. ‘That’s the kind of faith we’ve grown up with. I believe that God is the God of the impossible, I’ve seen it.’

Neil describes himself as a ‘country boy at heart’ who grew up in the small town of Patutahi, just outside Gisborne. They were a close-knit family who attended the Gisborne Salvation Army. When Neil was young, his dad—then in his early 40s—was diagnosed with cancer. From his ward in the hospital, Neil’s dad was the only one who walked out, cured.

‘So for me, where I am now, we say, “God, those healings you’ve done in our family we have witnessed and that’s the floor on which we walk.” I have no excuse not to believe in God’s power to heal because I am a witness to it,’ Neil says.

Getting the call Gill says she was about 18 when she realised that she needed to find her own faith, and felt a growing realisation that God was leading her into officership. ‘I can’t say I was thrilled about it,’ laughs Gill. ‘Having grown up with parents who were officers I knew it could be tough—I had seen my parents hurt. But in the end, I knew this was where God was leading me and it came to a point of surrender.’

For Neil, a significant turning point for him came during a Salvation Army Easter Camp in 1979. ‘It was there God spoke to me and said I would be a spokesperson for him,’ Neil says. ‘I decided that I wanted to say “yes” to God, and that whatever he asked, I would not say “no”, I would say “yes”.’

Gill had only been an officer for a year when she met Neil, who was in the middle of filling out his application form for Salvation Army training college. Sparks flew immediately, and they quickly knew they were meant to be together.

‘It was a big surprise to me,’ says Gill. ‘When I became an officer as a single person, I thought that was it.’ They waited for twoand-a-half years for Neil to graduate from his officership training, before they were married. Yet, God’s timing was perfect: Neil’s session name was ‘Ambassadors for Christ’—confirmation that God was indeed calling him to be his spokesperson.

Gill reflects on her own sessional name, ‘Guardians of the Truth’. She vividly remembers getting prayer from a pastor, who knew nothing of her session, praying she would guard the truth that had been deposited in her heart. Little did Gill know how many times she would come back to these words.

The tough stuff ‘Up until Gill and I had got married I had never experienced significant loss or hardship in my life,’ reflects Neil. But soon into their married life, Gill had a mild stroke. Then they discovered they only had a 10 per cent chance of being able to have children.

This was the beginning of a journey, not only of dealing with infertility, but understanding the power of holding on to God’s promises. Proverbs 3:5–6 has become one of Gill’s most precious verses: ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.’

‘It was tough and painful, because you get married thinking you’re going to have children,’ says Gill. ‘But God’s promises are powerful and profound. I know now you can live in the power of those promises in your day-to-day life. She quotes Psalm 23:1 (GNT), ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need,’ adding, ‘That’s not just a nice verse to read at a funeral, that’s a powerful verse to live by.’

After three years of treatment, Gill became pregnant. They now have two grown sons, Ethan and Caleb, an ‘adopted in love’ daughter Shannon, and two other ‘adopted in love’ young ladies who are like grandchildren. Recently, Ethan and Nive had a baby boy and so Gill and Neil are now Nana and Pop to Josias.

‘I don’t think God causes hardship,’ reflects Neil. ‘But he can turn it around to grow us, discipline us and teach us. As a result, I can journey alongside people in a way I wouldn’t have been able to before.’ But there were still other transforming times to come.

Into darkness About five years ago, Gill and Neil’s world fell apart when memories of childhood sexual abuse surfaced for Gill. She describes this as the darkest period of her life. ‘It was ugly and painful. Neil would go into the office some days not knowing if I would still be there at the end of the day.’

Neil put scripture verses around the house for Gill to find. Gill found it difficult to leave the house, so one of the kids always went with her to the supermarket. Despite this, Gill insisted on going to church every week. ‘Worship was a big part of my healing—I learnt why the worshippers would stand at the front when the Israelite troops went into battle,’ she says.

‘I would sit in the worship and cry out, and it was very healing.

God unwrapped those promises again, and Psalm 40:1–3 became my song and Proverbs 3 my anchor. I realised what it meant to trust with my all.’

Now, Gill says she is not the same person, and she recognises how she was unknowingly living out of the scars left by the abuse.

‘Before, I was a bit of a perfectionist, but now I don’t worry so much if we have visitors and the dishes aren’t done,’ she laughs. ‘It may seem frivolous, but I dyed my hair blonde last year, I would never have done that before!’ Gill has learnt to express her true self, rather than trying to be perfect for others.

She describes her officership as a ‘latte ministry’, walking with people through their lives. ‘That darkest time in my life has deepened my relationship with people and my empathy as I journey with people. I have greater awareness of mental health issues, and my kids would say I let go of things easier.’

The dreaded news Just days before we speak, Neil and Gill have come face-to-face with perhaps their biggest challenge. It began in March last year when Neil was diagnosed with cancer of the bladder and stage one melanomas. Gill very clearly felt God’s voice saying, ‘The cancer will not take him’, and they clung on to that promise. Neil had to have a new bladder constructed out of his bowel. They were tough days— in hospital Neil developed pneumonia and had be transferred into

Feature | 07

Photography: Caleb Waugh

the intensive care unit. He can’t remember much about that time.

Yet God was true to his promise and Neil recovered completely.

But during a routine follow-up visit last month, things took a grave turn. A CT scan found cancer had spread to Neil’s liver, lung and lymph nodes. ‘From their angle, the treatment they can give me now is not about a cure, it’s about palliative care … and so we sit here today,’ says Neil.

Gill is honest about the ‘ugly emotional rollercoster’. ‘I pretty vehemently told God my confusion to be in this place,’ she says, ‘because he had very clearly said last year that the cancer wouldn’t take Neil.

‘There are moments of absolutely gut-wrenching grief. But I go back to those verses—trust the Lord with all your heart—and I can do nothing more than that. I continue every day to thank God for his healing; that’s where I have to stand. And that’s where I’ll stand until God tells me otherwise.’

But the real story for Gill and Neil is not the cancer. The real story began when they were new officers, in their first appointment in Alexandra.

Presence and power

Being in God’s presence is like sitting in the lounge room with my dad. I’m just enjoying being with him.

‘It was my habit to go down to the church every day and pray over the place,’ Neil says. ‘But God said to me, “Are you more interested in bums on seats, or in building my Kingdom?” So, since then, my focus has been to seek first his Kingdom and trust God to build the church. It’s about discovering God’s presence and his power today.’

‘Now I just say, “God, I want your presence here on earth as it is in heaven.” I don’t want to be comfortable when you’ve called me to something higher.’ Neil admits that as an experienced officer, it can be tempting to rely on your own skills to do the job. ‘But real faith isn’t comfortable. Faith says, “God, if you want me to do this, you’re going to have to show up, cos I can’t do this.”

‘I want to live in the days of [Salvation Army founder] William Booth when they saw drunkards get up dry and sober. I want to say, “Your kingdom come!” ’ continues Neil with excitement.

Today, Neil and Gill are living in this reality more than ever before. ‘I have to now live in the element of faith where unless God

shows up, I’m not going to be here,’ reflects Neil. ‘I can pray, “God, your will be done,” because that’s a comfortable prayer. If I live or die, we can say, “That was God’s will.” But we’ve been called to hear God’s voice in the midst of our circumstances, and he’s looking at my situation from an eternal point of view.’

So Neil is praying the brave prayers. He says, ‘I have no shame in saying that I believe God is going to heal me, and I’ll prophetically declare that God has already given me the healing, even though I can’t see it in my body right now.

‘I’m not living to die; I died already when I gave my life to Jesus.

He’s called me live. He’s called me to bring his kingdom here to earth, and I want to see people’s lives transformed.’

Gill and Neil put the call out and people gathered at their corps in Christchurch, around New Zealand, and even the world, to pray for healing. ‘We’ve had many promises from God that the cancer will not take me,’ confirms Neil.

Being in God’s presence is like ‘sitting in the lounge room with my dad,’ reflects Neil. ‘I’m just enjoying being with him. I don’t want to go to him for what he can give me; I just want to be in the lounge room with him. But he’s my dad, so he wants to give me stuff. I don’t believe my heavenly dad is okay with my cancer, so I’m not going to be okay with it.’

Neil likens this to his own relationship with his children. ‘They can pull stuff out of me that no one else can, because they’re my children. Nothing can separate me from that love.’

On the job In the midst of emotional turmoil, grief and hope, Neil and Gill’s focus remains on their two loves: their family and their ministry.

They speak excitedly about their adopted daughter Shannon, who is bring her new man to meet them in the weekend and the joy of their precious wee grandson.

And they reflect on their lives as Salvation Army officers, Gill says, ‘Officership isn’t easy, but it is the most fulfilling life if that is the calling God has placed on your life. For me, it’s about relationship—being in relationship with Jesus and building relationship with others through our connections. I love it!’

Neil sums this up: ‘On the whole, I would not choose any other life [than that of a Salvation Army officer]. I’ve learnt to rely on God’s presence and empowerment in my life, and God has done something with that. I can’t do anything other than say “yes” to God.”

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HEALTH

LIFESTYLE

Be a Lifesaver

Beard Care for the Modern Man

World Blood Donor Day, held on 14 June, is a chance to say thank you to the 115,000 Kiwis who gave blood last year.

For decades, men have grown beards for one reason: to stay single. But a quiet revolution is taking place and men are reclaiming the beard.

Every week, the New Zealand Blood Service (NZBS) has to collect 3000 blood donations to meet medical demands. They work continuously to renew the donor database of 17,000 people per year.

There are good beards, and there are beards that have been left to their own devices. A good beard has the air of someone who just doesn’t really care.

You would rather be sipping a short black than spending that 10 minutes a day shaving. But to have a good beard, you do need to care, at least a little.

World Blood Day, begun by the World Health Organisation and the International Red Cross, marks the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel Prize winner who discovered the blood groups.

When you decide to grow your beard, stop shaving completely for at least four weeks. Don’t try and sculpt too early. But once you have your full beard, you will need to do some sculpting.

The day is used to raise awareness of the huge number of medical needs that donated blood is used for. For example, 12,000 units of blood were used by mums and newborn babies in 2013. This helped save the lives of women bleeding unexpectedly during and after delivery, was used for newborn babies needing blood transfusions, and was even given to babies still in the womb.

Keep it subtle and ‘fade’ your beard. Don’t shave up to your chin line, as this will make you look like you’ve got a double chin. Here’s how it’s done: • Step 1: Use a beard trimmer set on three to trim most of your beard.

• Step 2: Set your beard trimmer on one and shave your neck to about 5 cm from your chin.

We are truly blessed in New Zealand to have access to a steady and viable blood supply. Around the world, 800 women die every day due to birth complications. The huge majority of these deaths could be prevented through blood transfusions.

• Step 3: Set your trimmer to two and shave the remaining part of your ‘neckerchin’ to create a fade between your neck and chin.

You’d be amazed at the variety of life-saving products made with blood donations. NZBS is currently looking for males to give blood, as some plasma blood products can only be made with plasma from male donors.

Even if you go all William Booth on it and let that thing go wild, you’ll still want to sculpt those stray cheek hairs. Shave in the direction of your hair to blend it easily into your beard. Plucking is not recommended, as it can lead to ingrown hairs.

They would also like to hear from people who have recently had chicken pox or shingles. Believe it or not, your blood could contain a special antibody that can help protect children going through cancer treatment, if they get chickenpox too.

Just like your hair, you should shampoo your beard regularly. Use a mild shampoo. You may also want to use a conditioner, as your beard has much harsher follicles than your hair. Make sure you rinse thoroughly to avoid any flakiness.

Is your blood type O negative? If so, your plasma is universal and can be given to a patient with any blood type.

Ultimately, your beard style will most depend on your genetics. If you don’t have enough facial hair to grow a full beard, you’ll look like you’re growing mould on your face.

Instead, try some other options like a goatee (a favourite of youth pastors) or soul patch (a goatee variation). Ultimately, though, it’s not about the beard, it’s about the way you wear it.

A fear of needles is a common reason why people don’t give blood. But it really is just a momentary prick of discomfort. And you get a glass of juice and a bickie in return!

Go to www nzblood.co.nz to find out how you can donate.

Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not. Dr. Seuss

Pikelets

What’s better than a fresh pikelet with jam and cream? Sandwich these together with jam or honey for lunch 25g butter, melted 1 household Tbsp golden syrup 1 Tbsp sugar 1/2 cup milk 1 large egg 1 cup self-raising flour

Heat a frypan. (Use a high heat setting if frypan is electric.)

Put melted butter in a fairly large bowl, add golden syrup and stir to mix everything together. Beat in the sugar, milk and egg. Add the flour, then mix with a beater just until smooth.

Cook in spoonfuls in an oiled, heated frypan. When first bubbles burst on each pikelet, flip over. The second side is cooked when centre springs back when pressed.

Place the cooked pikelets on a clean dry tea towel, and cover to keep warm while you cook the remaining mixture.

For a treat, spread raspberry jam on each pikelet, then put a spoonful of whipped cream onto the jam. Delicious!

Cook’s Tip: Store leftover or extra pikelets in a sealed, plastic bag, in a cool place. Warm the cold pikelets in the plastic bag in a microwave for a few seconds before serving.

From Meals for 1 or 2 by Simon and Alison Holst. Go to www.holst.co.nz

Lifestyle | 09

Q&A At your wits’ end?

It might just be the best place for you to be …

When we hear people say they are at their ‘wits’ end’, most of us know exactly how they feel. If you’ve spent all day with a toddler in tantrum mode, an hour on the phone with IRD, or if someone at work is trying your patience … you may well say, ‘I’m at my wits’ end.’ You’re saying that you are so frustrated you can’t go on, and you don’t know what to do next.

The phrase ‘wits’ end’ originated in the King James Version of the Holy Bible, according to Grammarist.

Psalm 107:27 says, ‘They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits’ end.’ The verse is speaking about people who go back and forth in their devotion to God. The archaic definition of wit was knowledge. So, the phrase meant that people were at the end of their knowledge, and at the point where they must rely on faith.

The frustration you’re feeling when you are at the end of your knowledge may be just the place you need to be!

It means you can no longer rely on your own understanding, but on God. ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts’ (Isaiah 55:8–9).

Testify It’s been a long road for Ashburton man Steve Skilling to gain control over his gambling addiction.

Steve’s gambling started innocently enough while living in Dunedin in the late 1990s.

‘Really, it started with occasionally going to the pub to watch the sports and during various intervals go and slide a $2 coin or a note—in those days you could put notes in—and not giving it a second thought. In about 2000 it really took its hold, though, becoming more about going to the pub under the false guise of pretending to watch the sports. ’ Things quickly got out of hand and at one stage Steve was gambling up to between eight and 13 hours at a time. ‘It’s a terrible existence. The worst thing in life is just existing. I wasn’t living—I was just existing.’

Playing the pokies seemed a way of escaping the pressures of life, but it only made things worse. ‘It wasn’t necessarily the pokies; it was the issues around it. I never really clicked [I was addicted]. These places offered a bit of socialisation, warmth in winter; in some places you got free drinks. I didn’t notice till bills were struggling to be paid and food was hard to buy. It got suicidal really.

The frustrations led me to a really dark place.’

Later in 2000, Steve began to fight back. After reading about The Salvation Army’s gambling service setting up in Dunedin he got in touch and began to get help.

‘The people there, like [gambling case worker] Chris [Watkins], were non-judgemental people you could talk about a wide range of issues with and they had understanding and empathy. It wasn’t done under a religious concept—that’s what I do like about The Salvation Army, they cater for everyone. It was somewhere I felt I could go, not be judged, and continue learning —even if I was making very small steps.’

Despite that help, there were some tough times as Steve struggled with his addiction. A passionate long-distance runner, he won the 2004 Dunedin Marathon.

‘I gambled all that money away; nine months training—gone.’

Finally, he took the step of going round the places he used to gamble in and put up exclusion notices, barring himself from the premises. ‘It was like taking something back; taking my respect back, my accountability back. A lot of people look at you quite strangely when you say, “I’d like to bar myself.” ’ Although it was now illegal to allow Steve access, some places still let him in when he slipped. One club, he says, was finally closed down for allowing him back, and personally he would like to see pokies banned completely.

‘They really are an evil aspect that’s been allowed to permeate

Don’t be like the ‘drunkard’ who staggers back and forth in your devotion to God. Rather, when you’re at your wits’ end, ask God for wisdom and see what he will do.

I wasn’t living—I was just existing.

Let’s Talk I would like: to explore what it means to follow Jesus information about Salvation Army worship and activities prayer for the following needs:

When we look for God’s wisdom, we are tuning into far greater knowledge than we can ever attain ourselves.

We may not know which way to turn next, but God does.

And God promises that when we ask, he always gives us the wisdom we need. ‘If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you,’ says James 1:5–6. ‘But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.’

society under the completely false pretence of giving back to the community. I would be ecstatic if they were no longer allowed in pubs and clubs. They just do too much damage to individuals and society.’

Not gambling leads to its own struggles, Steve says. He still speaks with Chris when he needs to, and he knows he’s one step away from going back down that path.

‘Not playing meant facing up to the reality of life and who I am.

You learn a lot of negatives about yourself when you’re gambling.

You do a lot of things: you lie, you cheat, and you steal from yourself. These days, I ask myself, “Am I’m okay?” I’m not looking for perfection, but I want to know I’m okay—and I know I’m not okay when I’m playing the pokies.’

NAME:

A free and confidential gambling service Call us on 0800 530 000 salvationarmy.org.nz/gambling

ADDRESS:

Please post to: War Cry, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wgtn 6141 or email: warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org

10 | WarCry 13 June 2015

SUDOKU

Advice

Difficulty Easy

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Helping Teens Grow in Wisdom

Kathy Koch gives advice on helping teens in a world where all the answers seem to be found on a screen.

Websites, search engines, Siri, videos, friends on social media and other resources exist to help us get answers to our questions.

But today’s children are missing opportunities to use higher thinking skills, when all they have to do is ‘Google’ it.

Each Sudoku number puzzle has a unique solution that can be worked out logically (not mathematically). The numbers 1 to 9 appear once in every row, column and 3x3 square.

With all these sources, teens can quickly accumulate lots of information and be distracted from landing on solid information, says Texas-based writer and speaker Kathy Koch. Teens need adults to offer wisdom and teach discernment to help them make the most of the advantages the internet age brings, she says.

QUICK QUIZ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Is Chinese chop suey served with noodles or rice?

In the military, what do the initials LAV stand for?

Which government department has the Māori name Te Tari Taake?

What industry employs someone known as a ‘best boy’?

Which country has the bigger population: Ireland or NewZealand?

Basmati and Arborio are types of what?

In the words of the Beatles song, whose Wednesday morning papers didn’t come?

8 The firm Gunn and Moore makes equipment for which sport?

9 Which fictional character lived as 221B Baker Street, London?

10 What runaway boarded a ship that God struck with a strong wind?

Teens can handle perplexity, says Kathy. Today’s young people are willing to withhold judgement and may eventually draw conclusions on their own. That comfort with uncertainty and ambiguity is great, but becomes a disadvantage when it keeps teens from pursuing truth or grappling with big issues, Koch says. So, how can we help?

1. We can help teens distinguish between knowledge and wisdom.

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Find more Cartoons by McKerrow on www.facebook.com/cartoonsbymckerrow

Information is data gathered; it may not be relevant or true. Knowledge is understanding the facts and what they suggest. Wisdom is applying the right information in the right way in a relevant situation. Dr Koch notes the definition of another writer who defines spiritual wisdom as ‘the ability to apply the Word of God accurately and correctly, not only in the believer’s life, but in the lives of others.’ Affirm your teens when you see them applying God’s wisdom.

2. We can help them value what they can get by digging deeper.

While finding quick information is a strength, we need to encourage teens to dig deeper

than the first hit in a website search. Model curiosity and talk about what is being learned, while spending more time exploring and comparing information across sources.

3. We can acknowledge ambiguities and share about a time when we held conflicting ideas. It’s healthy

to admit complexities. When teens do ask questions, it’s better if we avoid overly simplistic answers or suggestions for their problems. We can share what sometimes caused us to arrive at solid conclusions and assure teens that wrestling with truth is okay—it’s a good thing to do.

4. We can help them agree to disagree with friends. Many

teens are stressed about drawing conclusions because they don’t want to alienate anyone who may draw a different conclusion.

We can guide them to the skills they need to talk through disagreements with their friends and how to handle friends who get upset because they disagree.

Agreeing to disagree is an important skill for life.

5. We can embrace paradox in our faith journey. Since today’s teens

and young adults like mystery and the existence of complexity, discuss what a ‘paradox’ means and then create a fun exercise by asking teens how many paradoxical ideas, or mysteries, they can find in Christianity. For example, this could include how serving others and not focusing on ourselves usually turns out to bless us, how God is both gentle and powerful, and how in losing our life we find it. Be ready for everyone to grow in understanding and faith.

Source: Screens and Teens by Kathy Koch, PhD (Moody Publishers)

Quick quiz answers: 1 Rice, 2 Light armoured vehicle, 3 Inland Revenue, 4 The film industry, 5 Ireland, 6 Rice, 7 Lady Madonna’s, 8 Cricket, 9 Sherlock Holmes, 10 Jonah (1:4)

Close Up | 11

BY ROBIN RAYMOND

Leadership Essentials A new Booth College of Mission leadership course, entitled ‘Leadership Essentials’ is being launched in September to replace the long-running ‘Foundations for Leadership’ course.

There will be ‘elbow learning’, but no foot washing or PowerPoints at a new course for Salvation Army leaders. ‘Leadership Essentials’ is being put together by John Mawdsley from leadership learning and development consultants Nexus Partners.

The new course is being developed after the retirement of Foundations for Leadership tutor John Hornblow. John Mawdsley said he was approached by Booth College of Mission (BCM) after they did a deep review of the course, and decided it needed to be refreshed.

Some elements of Foundations for Leadership had been retained and adjusted, but Leadership Essentials would be quite a ‘substantial change’, John said. He used his experience as a corporate leadership trainer, along with courses he has run at BCM and discussions with Envoy Malcolm Irwin (Centre for Leadership Development Missional Development Project Manager at BCM) to design a Salvation Armyspecific course, including looking at things that make a Salvation Army leader, he said.

The biggest change is that while Foundations for Leadership was focused on new leaders, Leadership Essentials was aimed more at established leaders, John said.

Another change is a model Malcolm calls ‘leadership at the elbow’.

Leaders will be encouraged to come in pairs or groups from their corps or centre. This will allow officers and centre managers to shoulder-tap leaders or potential leaders who would benefit from the training, and for them to watch, learn and be mentored. It will also help keep leaders on the same page and take lessons back to their corps or centres.

John said he was excited about the model, which worked well for other groups he has worked with. ‘I think it will be terrific for seeing things change at corps or centres. It’s very effective. We know from follow-up coaching work we do that conversations do carry on back in the local setting if people are working together, so I’m quite excited this is going to be happening.’

It has also affected how the course is structured, with plenty of time given to group work and interactive time, John said. ‘I don’t like PowerPoints, so there will be little of that, if any. My style is to attend to all the different learning styles in the room; a mixture of short lectures, reflection, discussion in pairs and in groups, brainstorming, and the odd game and things to keep things light and fun.’

In the coursework itself, Leadership Essentials will cover a series of

modules—from what leadership is and how leaders gain integrity and be relevant in their community, to thinking strategically and decision making, John said.

The course will also have a component on Christian leadership, looking at the example of Jesus’ servant leadership and the place of prayer in a leader’s life and work. A good example of servant leadership was Jesus washing the disciples’ feet—although foot-washing won’t be happening on the course. ‘Not in this programme, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea on the corps side,’ John suggested. ‘I think as Christian leaders we can take the opportunity to do that literally, but I think Jesus wants us to be thinking about other ways we can be servants and follow his example.’

Leaders will be encouraged to come in pairs or groups from their corps or centre.

Pride and having control can often be a challenge for leaders, and part of that servant leadership was about encouraging others to use their talents. ‘It’s a matter of sometimes the leader almost being in the background and knowing when the right time to do that is,’ John said.

The leaders who were best at that were leaders who used feedback, another important but challenging area that will be discussed and encouraged on the course. ‘It’s a brave thing to ask for feedback, and not everyone is ready for it unfortunately, but those who do seek it, listen and work on it, will then tell you feedback is a gift.’

A component on team development is also a new part of the course, which John was looking forward to, along with a section on being reflective. Leaders are often busy people who don’t take time to reflect on work they have done, but move on without pausing to learn what worked well and what didn’t, John said. ‘[Taking time to reflect] is something we’d love to see happening as an intentional part of people’s leadership.’

The Leadership Essentials course will be run at Booth College of Mission in Wellington from 22–23 September. To register or for more information, email malcolm_irwin@nzf.salvationarmy.org.

12 | WarCry 13 June 2015

Carla Lindsey asks, ‘What should we do about those uncomfortable, vengeful psalms? Should we smite our enemies, or forgive them?’

Most people have an inbuilt sense of justice. Even kindergarten children can be heard saying things like, ‘You’ve already had a turn —that’s not fair!’ As we get older, it seems right to us that people should get what they deserve. Good people should live long, happy lives, and evil people shouldn’t. That’s fair. That’s justice.

Yet, in this fallen world, we know that things aren’t always fair and that justice does not always prevail. The writer of many of the psalms knew this too. It seemed to him the bad guys were winning. This psalmist felt as if the righteous people, like himself, were being hunted and oppressed, and that those who were doing this were getting away with it. From time to time, throughout the book of Psalms, he has had enough and demands a solution from God. His solution? He wants God to completely annihilate his enemies!

Smite them, O Lord!

These psalms have been called ‘psalms of vengeance’. If there were only one or two, we might dismiss them as insignificant, but there are around 40 psalms that contain an element of vengeance.

In these vengeful psalms, the Psalmist asks for physical harm against his enemies, for their teeth to be broken. For material harm, their possessions to be lost. And for social harm, for them to be ashamed and disgraced. He wants them to go to an early grave. Nice!

The most horrible, vengeful outburst in all the Psalms is found in Psalm 137. It’s that lovely psalm that begins, ‘By the rivers of Babylon …’ But it doesn’t stay lovely. The Boney-M song we all know stops at verse six. If Boney-M had carried on, they’d have been singing: Daughter Babylon, doomed to destruction, happy is the one who repays you according to what you have done to us.

Happy is the one who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks. (Psalm 137:8–9) The Psalmist makes it pretty clear that he wants his enemy to be destroyed in every possible way—including the babies.

Well, I don’t know about you, but this all makes me pretty uncomfortable. It’s not very WWJD. Yet these very un-Christlike requests are found in the Bible, our sacred book. The book we believe God inspired! Just what are we supposed to do with that?

Enemies of God How are we to understand the psalms? How are we to apply them? Are we to apply them to our lives?

To answer these questions, we need to see things from the perspective of the writer. We already know what he is asking for: the destruction of his enemies, but the question is: why does he ask that? Why does he feel the need to use such strong words against his enemies?

Let’s take Psalm 83 as an example. If you are able, look up the whole psalm, but here’s a taste:

… See how your enemies growl, how your foes rear their heads …

As fire consumes the forest or a flame sets the mountains ablaze, so pursue them with your tempest and terrify them with your storm.

Cover their faces with shame, Lord, so that they will seek your name.

May they ever be ashamed and dismayed; may they perish in disgrace.

Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord —that you alone are the Most High over all the earth.

The writer seems impatient, angry, hurt and frustrated. He feels powerless, surrounded and ganged-up on. He wants other nations to know God, and he feels God’s name is on the line. He wants God to intervene and show people who he is.

Understanding how desperate the author feels and what is at stake for him helps us understand his strong language. We don’t really know much about the Psalmist’s enemies. But in all the psalms where an enemy features, the enemy can be summed up as the one who opposes God and God’s people. The enemy is representative of those who stand against God’s kingdom. And that is why the Psalmist writes.

I don’t think he was just so cruel he wanted to go around killing babies, but he did want to destroy anything opposed to God’s kingdom.

By talking about killing babies, he was saying that he wanted to wipe out evil completely. If the children survived, another generation would rise up and continue the evil.

The Psalmist was saying, ‘God, destroy this evil at its root!’ He was saying, ‘God, tear down those dark forces that are stopping your kingdom from breaking through into this world!’ And that’s a good prayer … well, kind of. I like the idea behind it, I just don’t like the way the Psalmist wants it to happen.

Old vs. new?

So, how do we reconcile the Psalmist’s prayer for violence against his enemies with what the New Testament says about loving our enemies?

Jesus told his disciples to love their enemies and pray for those who persecuted them. While dying on the cross, Jesus forgave his murderers.

Jesus said, ‘blessed are the peacemakers.’ When the disciples wanted to call down fire on an unwelcoming town, Jesus refused.

Is the New Testament contradicting the Old Testament? No, I don’t think so. While the Old Testament does have many harsh things to say about enemies, it also teaches that all life is sacred and instructs us to love our enemies.

And while the New Testament may seem more ‘loving’ than the Old, Jesus also has harsh words of condemnation for the Pharisees.

Luke and Matthew both record words of judgement from Jesus, and 2 Thessalonians indicates that there will be a time of judgement when wrongs will be paid back.

This isn’t an Old Testament versus the New Testament thing. Both are consistent in one message: vengeance belongs to God. Neither in

Soul Food | 13

the Old Testament nor the New Testament is there a place for personal vengeance. All revenge must be given over to God. And that is what I believe the Psalmist is doing. He’s writing to get it off his chest and to give all his frustrations to God. There is nothing to suggest the writer acted in violence himself; just that he wished God would. He’s having a rant and leaving it with God. The Psalmist isn’t contradicting Jesus. The Psalmist hated injustice—so did Jesus.

The Psalmist was passionate about God’s kingdom—so was Jesus.

He taught his disciples to pray, ‘… your kingdom come …’. The coming kingdom of God was the heart of Jesus’ message.

These psalms of vengeance remind me that God is the one to run to when I feel overwhelmed.

What makes us angry?

If we have ever felt angry and at our wits’ end, or like God wasn’t doing enough ... if life’s pressures have felt like an enemy surrounding us ... if we’ve ever felt like the bad people are winning ... then the psalms of vengeance are something we can apply to our lives. And we can ask ourselves two questions: Firstly, what do I do with my anger? When I’m feeling pressured and frustrated, where does that get directed? Anger does need to be acknowledged and expressed, but how do I do that?

The inclusion of these psalms of vengeance in the Bible reminds me that God is the one to run to when I feel overwhelmed. They remind me that it’s okay to tell God exactly how I feel. We can be brutally honest with God. He’s big enough. He can take it!

By taking our frustrations to God and leaving them with him, it encourages us to turn these frustrations into trust.

Secondly, what makes us angry to begin with? A while ago in our home group, we did a personality test. I was surprised to learn that one of the negative aspects of my personality was that I could be an angry person.

I didn’t think I was angry at all, but over the week that followed I discovered that lots of little things tick me off. Like when my cell phone battery dies at an inconvenient moment—that’s so annoying, And when I’m already running late and I forget about the road works up the road—stupid roadworks! And any person that spreads their clothing from one end of the house to the other, just after I’ve cleaned it—well, they had just better look out, because I may have to use my outside voice to get them to move it!

What ticks you off? The Psalmist was angry because of injustice in the world. He was angry because he saw that evil was winning. Does that make you angry?

I’m angry that many Kiwi kids go to school with no lunch. And I don’t care if it’s the parents’ fault or the government’s fault—I know it’s not the kids fault. It’s not fair on our kids!

I’m angry that so many young people who are struggling with their

sexual identity are taking their own lives. And I don’t care whether people think being gay is a sin or not, no young person should ever feel that badly about themselves! No one deserves to feel like that.

I’m angry that if you are pregnant right now in China with your second child, you might be forced to have an abortion right into the ninth month of your pregnancy. And I don’t care if you are pro-choice or pro-life, there is something seriously wrong with a world where abortion is being forced on women!

I’m angry that 234 Nigerian school girls were kidnapped from a school in northeast Nigeria last April by Boko Haram. I’m angry that those girls were taken because some people in this world still think of women as second-class citizens who don’t deserve an education. That makes my blood boil!

In situations like these, I can relate to the Psalmist’s impatience: Come on God, do something, evil is winning! In situations like these, it’s most appropriate to pray a prayer like: God, intervene.

God, act now—please!

God, please destroy anything that stands in the way of your will being done.

Please tear down the evil and let your kingdom break through.

In the face of oppressive forces like Boko Haram, we can feel too overwhelmed to pray. But by learning to bring our anger and desperation to God, we can again become passionate pray-ers on behalf of God’s kingdom.

May God help us to be angry about the things he is angry about.

May we trust God with the injustices that make us angry. May God enable us to direct our anger in constructive ways. And above all, may God’s kingdom come.

Dig Deeper What injustice in this world makes you angry? Bring that frustration to God—feel free to rant!

Who are the enemies of God in this world? Ask God to act. Be brave enough to pray passionately!

What makes you angry? Are these the things that make God angry? Ask God to transform you so that you can be more like Christ.

14 | WarCry 13 June 2015

Love and Unity Grows at Upper Hutt Family Camp

I am not much of a fan of camping at the best of times. My feet get cold, my food gets cold and—most upsettingly—my coffee gets cold.

However, when The Salvation Army Upper Hutt announced we were to have a Family Camp in March 2015, I decided my comfort was not the highest priority.

Over the weekend of 13–15 March, around 80 of our corps gathered at beautiful Camp Kaitoke. Friday night kicked off with songs, games and getting to know one another better as we launched headfirst into the heart of the camp: One Church, One Spirit, One Family.

Saturday morning was welcomed in with a prayer meeting, worship and sharing. We were blessed to have Colonels Willis and Barbara Howell bring a timely word on how a family is only complete when every member is loved—and if we love God, then we must love his children.

Lunch was followed by an expansive game prepared by Scott Keane.

Every age and skill group was called upon to try and score points through different activities to earn ‘camp dollars’ and buy materials to build a beautiful lamp shade made of cups. This was a great illustration of how the church works together to build something that uses every piece in unison, but the end result is only brought to life when the

illumination of the Holy Spirit—the light—is switched on.

Small group times over the weekend allowed us to unpack ideas and communicate our thoughts with others from the corps. I really enjoyed this time as it meant getting to know people more closely than a Sunday morning meeting would usually allow.

Saturday night activities included games, quizzes and skits, which brought out the plain ridiculous side in all of us. An epic bonfire and worship time followed for those who still had the energy.

Many of our corps fed back that this organic time of fellowship was their camp highlight.

On Sunday morning we arose to a filling breakfast and a filling of the Word. We were joined by more of our church family for a slightly different morning meeting—held on couches in the dining hall! It was really nice to hear the different perspectives on things other members had found helpful and encouraging in the weekend and that they now felt more connected and included in our church family.

Sunday lunch was a hot offering of hash browns and sausages cranked out on the BBQ—after which we wrapped up camp with a cool group photo on the front lawn.

Over the weekend, the campers had been encouraged to complete a panel for a group project: Te Korowai Aroha—the Cloak of Love. The pieces were finger painted in red and gold, and represented people’s whakapapa (genealogy) of their faith and family. Just as a traditional korowai cloak in Māoridom is woven together carefully and skillfully, we as members of Upper Hutt Corps, are being woven into something unified and incredible through Christ’s love.

That isn’t the end of it, though. When we function in right relationship with one another and God, we become something that reflects and magnifies God’s mana and righteousness to the world. We become a cloak of love for all to see.

This is the first Family Camp I have been to as a Salvationist. I was really surprised and encouraged to witness the way the love of Jesus was demonstrated in a more intimate setting.

Family is challenging, confronting and tricky, but ultimately family is what we are each called to. The word ‘corps’ literally translates to ‘body’, and we are the body of Christ. When we allow ourselves to be woven into something that God has designed for his glory, putting aside our desires and ambitions to seek first his kingdom, we find that our own comfort is not the highest priority any more. God and his children are the priority now.

Rosy Keane

Our Community | 15

Plenty of Gains from Aspire Outdoor Adventures

High ropes, caving and campfires are proving a great mix for hundreds of young people taking part in The Salvation Army Aspire youth development programme.

The programme, which began in March, runs in 32 centres around the country, providing support for more than 530 youth aged 11–16 who are at risk of poverty and social exclusion, have strained school involvement or a lack of engagement in positive social groups. Aspire also works with participants’ families.

The course includes a three-day outdoor adventure camp experience and 240 teens from the North Island have already been to camp at the Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC); doing caving, a high ropes course and problem-solving outdoor challenges. BMAC manager Mel Crook said the camps had been great for fostering a good team spirit and the young people were going away ‘pumped’.

‘They all seem to be enjoying it and are telling us they can’t wait to come back. It’s all about providing an experience that’s totally outside

what they’re used to. It creates a “wow” factor for them and introduces them to the idea they can do more than they knew.’

The groups had a diverse range of ages and experience, including some young people who were taking their first trip out of their home town. Although three days was a short experience, it was good knowing it was part of a wider programme supporting the young people—and even those three days could have a big impact, Mel said.

‘I had someone who wouldn’t participate at all on the first day. On the second day they did, so even overnight there was a change in them, what they could do and what the group meant to them.’

One group leader said that after the camp the young people were buzzing. ‘Every parent I talked to thanked me for taking their child and told me how their child had not stopped talking about their time at BMAC. I think the thing I was most impressed with was the support and care the kids gave to each other.’

Those who took part wrote about overcoming their fears: from homesickness to being scared of the caves, or enjoying the high ropes course despite a fear of heights.

Aspire is divided into four learning sections across the year, with teams of 10 focusing on developing things like connectedness, purpose and generosity. The next term is focusing on responsibility and independence, including exploring problem solving, communication and self-control.

Aspire has been funded by The Warehouse Group, which chose The Salvation Army as its charity of the year for 2015.

Programme coordinator Jono Bell said demand was so high that demand had exceeded the number of places available. The programme had been getting good feedback from schools and parents. One deputy principal left in tears, because she was so excited about the potential for her students, Jono said.

Sewing Graduates Look to the Future Seventeen graduates from the Suva Central Corps Sewing Programme received their graduation certificates on Sunday 26 April in a service at Suva Central Corps.

Four courses of 11 weeks duration are hosted by Suva Central and Labasa Corps each year. The courses give the women and men who take part the necessary skills in design and dressmaking to establish income-generating activities for themselves and their families.

Head tutor at the Suva programme, Olive Falani, says that over 90 per cent of graduates either achieve this goal or are able to find employment as a result of their training, At the graduation dinner held earlier in the week, guest speaker Major Vyvyenne Noakes (Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries) congratulated the graduates on their achievement and celebrated the new opportunities that achieving their certificate opened for them.

All the graduates wore outfits they had designed and made for the occasion while on the course.

Fiji Salvation Army Hosts AIDS Memorial Services On Sunday 17 May, Suva Central Corps and a number of other corps in the Fiji Division hosted International AIDS Candlelight Memorial services. The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, coordinated by the Global Network of People living with HIV, is one of the world’s oldest and largest grassroots mobilisation campaigns for HIV awareness in the world. Started in 1983, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial takes place every third Sunday in May and is led by a coalition of 1200 community organisations in 115 countries.

Services remember the estimated 39 million people who have died from AIDS-related illnesses since the first cases were reported in 1981, along with their surviving families. It also aims to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to break down the stigma and discrimination that so often accompanies it.

The first case of AIDS was reported in Fiji in 1989. Victims and families faced stigmatisation and discrimination, which included not being able to provide proper funerals. In 2004, the Suva Declaration

announced that Fiji as a nation could no longer be complacent on the subject, and since 2009 Salvation Army corps at Lautoka, Nadi, Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, Lomaivuna and Suva Central have hosted the annual candlelight service.

Speakers at the Suva service included Tim Rwabuhemba (the United Nations Country Director for Pacific Island Countries), Temo Sasau (an AIDS sufferer and advocate), Emosi Ratini (the Chair of FJN+, the Fiji AIDS advocacy group), and a representative of the Pacific Conference of Churches.

Speakers called on churches to bring the support and commitment of Christian people to love, care and share with AIDS sufferers, with the reminder that 33 million people are afflicted with HIV today.

Fiji Divisional Commander Major David Noakes brought a Bible message that focused on HIV/AIDS as the modern-day equivalent of leprosy in Jesus’ time. He promoted Jesus’ example as one who crossed boundaries and challenged stigmatisation to touch and bring healing.

16 | WarCry 13 June 2015

Exciting Plans for International Congress Shoppers

Ahead of The Salvation Army’s 150th anniversary international congress, Boundless—the Whole World Redeeming, the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland’s trading company has exciting plans for a large-scale congress retail hub. The 20,000 squarefoot shop, located along a concourse in the O2 complex, is expected to receive a record number of global visitors.

The Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) was established in 1991 to create jobs, benefit the environment (through recycling) and, through profitable trading, help fund The Salvation Army’s work in the UK and Ireland. It has donated millions of pounds to The Salvation Army since its formation—including more than £39.5 million in the past five years.

Officially opening at 12:30 pm on 30 June, the Boundless shop will be accessible to anyone visiting The O2 arena throughout the congress, which runs until 5 July. It will be located alongside The O2’s many restaurants, which will be open to the public throughout the event.

The shop, which will stock thousands of items from Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (SP&S), will give an exciting shopping experience for Salvationists and friends visiting from countries far and wide. The entranceway will include a huge replica of the ‘Lights in Darkest England’ matchbox, highlighting William Booth’s famous initiative to make London’s 19th century match industry safer for its workers. Inside will be creative and interactive displays.

As well as SP&S’s best-loved products will be a range of commemorative souvenirs, including a specially recorded double CD from congress participants and the official Boundless t-shirt, made

GAZETTE Bereaved Mjr Muriel Gooder of her daughter, Robyn Sewter, from Perth, Australia, on 18 May after a short illness. A celebration of Robyn’s life was held at Elim Church, Botany Downs, Auckland, on 25 May. Please remember Mjr Gooder and extended family in prayer. This includes Robyn’s husband Chris and their three teenaged children, Mitchell, Ryan and Olivia.

Mjr Raewyn Fridd of her mother, Sister Violet Fridd, a soldier of Cambridge Corps, on 30 May. The funeral service was conducted by Envoys Geoffry and Jillian Smith at the Union Parish Church, Matamata, on 4 June. Please support Raewyn in prayer at this time.

Promotions to Glory Lt-Col Winifred Manson on 25 May from Tauranga, aged 91. Winifred Grace Podmore was born in Wellington on 6 March 1924. Win entered Training

College from Gore Corps on 20 March 1942 in the Steadfast Session and was commissioned on 26 Oct 1942 as Assistant Officer, Leeston. This was followed by appointments at Wanganui East and Terrace End Corps. She married Noel Manson, and afterhis commissioning in 1953 they served as Corps Officers at Paremata, Naenae, Waimate and Nelson. In 1963, they were appointed to Temuka Boys Home, and then Rudman House, Wellington. Further appointments were at the Feilding, Newton and Hamilton Corps; the Bridge, Wellington; and Divisional Headquarters, Wellington. Win became Divisional Director of Women’s Organisations and, in 1985, Medical Fellowship Secretary at Territorial Headquarters (THQ). It was during this time that the couple was promoted to Lieutenant Colonels. Noel and Win retired in 1994. They continued to serve in retirement, first at THQ and then at Island Bay Corps. Noel was promoted to Glory in 1999. We honour

from fairtrade cotton.

Traditional uniform and casualwear will be available to buy, as well as specially sourced clothing—including t-shirts from The Salvation Army USA Western Territory’s popular WARdrobe collection, designed by graphic artists who donate their time and talent to raise funds and awareness for The Salvation Army. Also available will be a replica of Booth’s original matchbox as well as other souvenir gift ideas, alongside a huge range of Salvation Army accessories, books, music, recordings and gift items, and a range of brass instruments.

The SATCoL team will be producing DVD recordings of the main congress sessions and live CDs of other concerts. Visitors can preorder these and collect within 12 hours of each programme finishing (stocks will be limited). Book and CD signings will also take place at the shop.

In a corner of the Boundless shop, SATCoL has reserved space for a clothes boutique. Over the past year, SATCoL’s network of more than 200 charity shop teams has been carefully selecting some of the best donations from businesses and communities, setting them aside for the Boundless boutique. Many of the items are brand-new. Visitors can expect a wide selection of high-end and high street clothing and accessories, with designer brands such as Gucci and Alexander McQueen included in the collection—all at affordable prices.

A number of fairtrade products have been sourced especially for the congress, including Boundless t-shirts and hoodies inscribed with ‘Est. London 1865’.

One of the most exciting launches for the congress will be Salvation Army fairtrade tea, which will have its own stand in the shop.

Visitors will be able to take home a ‘proper British cuppa’, knowing they are supporting The Salvation Army’s work in the country of its birth. The slogan across the front of the box, ‘There’s Nothing Like an Army Cup of Tea!’, is the title of an early Salvation Army song.

Garry Smith, Project Manager for SATCoL’s Boundless shop, says, ‘This summer’s international congress to celebrate The Salvation Army’s 150th anniversary is one of the most important events in the calendar and the SATCoL project team is excited to be supporting it. Everyone has been working hard to present the world’s Salvationists with a fantastic range of items to purchase to remember this historic congress. We look forward to greeting all our visitors and hope they enjoy what is certain to be a memorable few days.’

Go to www sps-shop.com/boundless to view items that will be for sale at the Boundless congress. All products will become available to order online for delivery, and a ‘click and collect’ service is also in place, allowing pre-orders to be placed and collected from the SP&S shop at The O2.

Lt-Col Win Manson for her faithful service and ministry. A celebration of her life was held at Tauranga Corps, on 28 May, conducted by Mjr John Fitness.

An interment at Karori Cemetery was conducted by Lt-Col Lyn Buttar on Saturday 30 May. Please uphold family members in prayer at this time. Well done, good and faithful servant of Jesus!

Mjr Lorna Williams on 25 May from Napier, aged 91. Lorna Stewart was born at Gateshead-upon-Tyne, England, on 14 Nov 1923. She entered Training College from Napier Corps in 1952, with her husband Claude, in the Intercessors Session. The couple were commissioned on 19 Jan 1953 and appointed to Oxford Corps as Corps Officers. Further corps appointments followed at Devonport, Waihi, Timaru, Blenheim, Feilding, and Dunedin Fortress Corps. In 1972, Claude and Lorna were appointed to THQ where Lorna became Territorial Red Shield Guide Advisor, a role she held for six years before

being appointed as Red Shield Stores Assistant, Wellington. In 1978, Lorna was appointed Assistant Divisional Director of Women’s Organisations, Northern Division. Claude and Lorna spent most of 1981 on overseas service as Officers in Charge of the Bangladesh Command. On their return, they were appointed to Epsom Lodge, where Lorna was Matron, and then to Resthaven Eventide Home, Christchurch. In 1985, they moved to their final appointment as Corps Officers, Thames. Claude and Lorna retired from active service on 1 Feb 1988, moving first to Auckland and then back to their home town of Napier. Claude was promoted to Glory in 2012. We honour Major Lorna Williams for her faithful ministry and service.

A celebration of her life was held at Napier Corps on 29 May, conducted by Mjr Alister Irwin. Please uphold family members in prayer at this time. Well done, good and faithful servant of Jesus!

Noticeboard | 17

CALENDAR JUNE 16: Leadership Module (TSMP) / Northern Division 19: Women in Leadership / Central Division 20: Junior Soldiers Day / Tonga Region 21: Soldiership Renewal Sunday / Tonga Region 21: Regional Meeting (Fua’amotu) / Tonga Region 21–28: Week of 24/7 Prayer and the Word / Tonga Region 23: Officers Development Day / Northern Division 26: National Sports Day Holiday / Fiji Division 28: Corps Cadet Sunday / Fiji Division

International Bible Reading Challenge WEEK 24 Acts 27–Romans 3 | WEEK 25 Romans 4–8 Go to www.salvationarmy.org/biblechallenge for daily reading guides and more.

Porirua Corps 50th Anniversary You’re invited to celebrate with us on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November. Guest leaders: Colonels Barbara and Willis Howell. 89 Warspite Ave, Cannons Creek, Porirua.

JULY 1–5: Boundless International Congress / London 5: Founders’ Day and Candidates Sunday 6: King Tupou VI Birthday and Coronation / Tonga Region 6–12: Winter Peak Adventure / Blue Mountain Adventure Centre 10–12: Kids Camp / Southern Division 17–19: Territorial Youth and Children’s Ministries Conference / Christchurch 19: Self Denial Appeal Launch 31: Divisional Headquarters Team Day / Northern Division 31–2 August: Junior Miss Camp / Tonga Region 31–2 August: National Youth Band Mission Weekend / Timaru Corps 31–2 August: Junior Miss Camp / Tonga Region 31–2 August: National Youth Band Mission Weekend / Timaru Corps

For an information pack, e: ebony_sushames@nzf.salvationarmy. org, p: (04) 235 6266

Focus on Brass Come and enjoy an afternoon of brass music with the bands of the Central Division.

Featuring vocal soloist Rebecca Howan. Sunday 9 August, 3 pm. Wellington Citadel Corps, 92 Vivian Street, Wellington.

No Turning Back Lt-Col Lorna Hennessy has penned recollections of her and husband Don’s calling to be missionaries and the outworking of that call.

The couple’s missionary journey began in 1968. They served for 17 years in Brazil, two years in Nigeria, five years in Portugal and then three years in Fiji, before returning to New Zealand to retire.

OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Robert (Territorial Commander) and Janine Donaldson (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 14–19 June: Officers Fellowship / Newcastle and Central NSW Divisions, Australia 23–25 June: Appointments Conference / Booth College of Mission 28 June: Upper Hutt Corps 29 June–6 July: Boundless International Congress (including travel) / London 26 July: Whanganui Corps Colonels Willis Howell (Chief Secretary) and Barbara Howell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries) 20 June: Blue Mountain Adventure Centre 23–25 June: Appointments Conference / Booth College of Mission 29 June–6 July: Boundless International Congress (including travel) / London 26 July: Wellington South Corps

PRAYER FOCUS Please pray for: Tawa, Thames, Timaru, Tokoroa and Upper Hutt Corps, the National Youth Band, The Salvation Army in Bangladesh.

Lorna shares their joys and sorrows, including situations that tested their faith. There were robberies, riots, a military coup, health cares and culture shocks. Yet through it all, Lorna and Don proved God’s faithfulness.

Limited copies, $28 +p&p. To order, p: (06) 367 3119 or e: donhennessey@kinect.co.nz

Uniform For Sale Lady Collins Jacket, size XL, as new $100 ono. Plus blouse, size 18 as new, can be worn with winter or summer uniform—$40. E: bev_clark@xtra.co.nz or p: (06) 326 9250, 027 480 6757.

INTERESTED IN SOCIAL JUSTICE? For reports, regular newsletters, challenging articles and Salvation Army government submissions.

www salvationarmy.org.nz/socialpolicy

To advertise your event, email: warcry@nzf.salvationarmy.org

HELP SHAPE THE NEXT

GENERATION

FOR FREE RESOURCES AND HELP IN PASSING THE BIBLE ON TO T HE NEXT GENER ATION, VISIT WWW. BIBL E MON T H. NZ

THE BIBLE: PASS IT ON

18 | WarCry 13 June 2015

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In a world of relentless change, our one constant is God..

The first day of June marked the beginning of winter, a change of seasons. Travelling from Waikato to Wellington on that weekend, I experienced a kaleidoscope of colour and creation —from muted green hills, to the beautiful reds, oranges and rustic browns of the autumn leaves, and then the crisp white snow-capped mountains. Each a beautiful picture on its own.

With every corner we turned, the scene changed.

I could not help but be amazed by God’s design and beautifully ordered creation. How majestic and powerful is God! Yet within several miles of each beautiful scene lay a different picture. A picture of people who face constant changes and a frantic pace of life. If I cast my gaze even further, to what is happening in the rest of the world, I can see the devastation of natural disasters, war and desperate people trying to seek a better and safer life.

In a world of relentless change, our one constant is God. God who never changes, who is the beginning and the end. God, who is simply ‘I Am’. God, who is the creator and author of life. God, who is our peace and strength in times of turmoil and trouble.

The next day, Kristine and I were on duty as Sunday school leaders at Porirua Corps. The lesson built on what we had been thinking about the previous day. We were exploring how God talks to us in many different ways, and how we can see God in everyday ordinary things we are often too busy to notice, such as the patterns on the leaves and flowers. The cutting of a kiwifruit or an orange shows how perfectly nature is put together. Such minute detail is also true of birds, butterflies and all of created life.

All of this brings into focus just how much God cares—not only about the big things in life, but everything. Matthew 6:26 says, ‘Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.

Are you not much more valuable than they?’ God chose us, designed us and loves us. We are each carefully planned and created for a purpose.

While we cannot always experience such beautiful peaceful scenery and may instead by confronted daily by the more mundane realities of everyday life, we can always be reminded of a better life and of our powerful God through the scriptures.

When we focus on God, looking upward towards the Son, we feel the warmth of his love. This is put more eloquently is the words of a chorus: 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.

Captain Gerry Walker Territorial Secretary for Personnel

BY CHRISTINA TYSON

A New Song Book for Today’s Salvation Army Almost 30 years after the last Salvation Army song book was published, a new ‘user-friendly’ edition is being released—in the Army’s 150th year.

The new English-language Song Book of The Salvation Army, which is being launched on 2 July at the Boundless international congress, is designed to meet the needs of contemporary Salvation Army worship around the world.

‘Music has always played an enormous role in the worship of God’s people,’ General André Cox says. ‘It touches the soul in a unique way and can lift and inspire. God has gifted The Salvation Army with great poets who have a unique ability to express in words some of our deepest emotions, desires, devotion and love for God, which many of us would struggle to do without their special talents. As well, The Song Book of The Salvation Army is a repository containing much of our doctrinal teaching, making it an essential tool for the development of our faith.’

Recognising that the Army song book is no longer so widely used in some places, the General says, ‘There is nothing wrong with using modern and new songs, but equally there is no reason to neglect the richness of what we have. It is sad when we no longer know or use some of our great songs that are taken up by other denominations. I think in a world of shifting values, our song book is more than relevant in reaffirming our beliefs and nurturing our faith.’

Salvation Army song books have tended to be updated around every 25 years. The vision for the latest edition came from General Shaw Clifton who convened a Song Book Council in 2009, a year before his retirement as the Army’s international leader. ‘Our song book has come to mean a great deal to me through the years as a spiritual help and source of inspiration,’ he says. ‘I spoke with my predecessor [General John Larsson] before taking office and he agreed a new book was needed. I also discussed it at length with my closest and most senior advisers, and then sought feedback from throughout the Army world.’

Mission Matters | 19

Wellington South Corps Band at the 2015 Territorial Welcome to New Zealand cadets.

Although the use of large screens to display congregational songs has changed the way the song book is used, the feedback received

by International Headquarters was that this technology should not deprive The Salvation Army of a printed song book.

Having decided to move ahead with the project, suggestions were sought about which new songs to include. Not all the ‘new’ songs in the new edition were written recently; some are 50 or 60 years old. At the same time, the Song Book Council needed to decide which songs from the 1986 song book to omit. ‘Previous Generals had not hesitated to drop about one third of the content of a song book when planning for a new edition. Therefore, the Song Book Council felt able to be bold in a similar fashion,’ Retired General Clifton says. Work on the new edition, particularly song selection, was well under way when he handed oversight of this task to his successor.

A key goal for the Song Book Council was to make the new edition as user-friendly as possible. This has seen the addition of new features, such as key Bible references above every song. An index to those references is included to further assist leaders in worship planning.

In addition to piano and brass music for all songs, guitar chords are included for the first time, along with suggested introductions for every tune. Parts are provided in concert pitch and in the key of F, and some tunes have been brought down in pitch so they are easier to sing.

The previous song book contained 962 songs and 251 choruses.

The new edition has 1041 songs, but a separate chorus section is no longer included as many modern compositions are not easily classified as ‘songs’ or ‘choruses’.

Songs in the previous edition were grouped into 12 major sections.

The new song book has three main sections: ‘The Eternal God’, ‘Our Response to God’ and ‘Benedictions’, with songs organised into categories and sub-categories of these sections.

Four years ago, Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis was asked to accept the role of Tune Book Coordinator on the Song Book Council. He worked closely with Andrew Blyth, Assistant Territorial Music Director of the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, the Music Ministries Unit of that territory and other musical arrangers.

As well as his own musical background—which includes serving as Territorial Music Secretary in New Zealand and as National Bandmaster, Head of Music Editorial and Territorial Music Secretary in the United Kingdom—Lieut-Colonel Davis has a deep personal appreciation of the song book. ‘I think the new song book represents who we are in The Salvation Army very well,’ he says. ‘Naturally I, like everybody else, will have my own joys and disappointments about

what is included. However, from the tune book side of things, the song book has been prepared by a group of competent people who have done this with integrity and skill, not to mention extreme dedication.’

In a world of shifting values, our song book is more than relevant in reaffirming our beliefs and nurturing our faith.

Andrew Blyth learned to play brass in a Salvation Army young people’s band and to sing in the singing company. Andrew joined the Music Editorial Department in the UK at 18, becoming a member of the International Staff Band the same year. ‘It was there that I learned harmony and started to compose music for The Salvation Army,’ he says. Since then, Andrew has been the leader of the International Staff Songsters and Enfield Citadel Band. Currently, he serves as bandmaster of Peterborough Citadel Corps Band.

‘The Salvation Army is an integral part of my faith journey,’ Andrew says. ‘The Army has supported me during the challenging times of my life, corrected me when I needed it and encouraged me in my everyday activities. Of course, its music appeals to me, but I have also seen the Army at work in areas of social need and during times of disaster.’

He says that although a number of 1986 arrangements are used in the 2015 tune book, 200 new arrangements were still required, taking around two years to complete. The editing and proofing of the music was a mammoth task, with more than 20,000 separate parts to read. ‘There are some beautiful new melodies that will be appreciated by musicians,’ Andrew says. And although brass arrangements are provided for all songs, he cautions that some songs are not ideally suited to brass band accompaniment.

For those counting the cost of upgrading to the new song book, General Cox recommends it as a worthwhile investment. ‘Many people spend the equivalent cost of a song book for a decent meal out, or for other forms of entertainment,’ he says. ‘My parents purchased a copy of the 1986 song book when I was a young officer serving in Zimbabwe.

That copy has been with me for almost 30 years now and the pages are well turned, so I guess that was good value for money! And it certainly has been with me through some personally difficult times.

‘Our song book contains songs that point us to the life of faith, inviting us to lift up our eyes and to embrace and rejoice fully in the realisation that God is with us no matter what our circumstances or whatever challenges we face.’

HOT TOPICS

By Ingrid Barratt Yep, it was sexist, stupid, sleazy and … errr … super addictive. Here’s some dos and don’ts The Bachelor NZ taught us about dating. This ain’t just for the girls, there’s some good stuff in here for you fellas, too! have fun while you’re young: Dating 21 girls might be some guys’ idea of fun, but that’s not exactly the kind of fun we’re talking about here. When you’re crushing on someone, the first thing you want to think about is whether dating is for you, right now. The truth is, the sooner you start dating, the more times you’re going to find yourself broken-hearted.

Your teen years are about fun times.

It’s the time when you’re developing a relationship with God that will hold you fast through everything in life. It’s also the time when you build strong friendships that will last a lifetime. As you get older, those strong foundations will help you make good decisions about dating. So don’t feel pressured to jump

into the whole dating thing. It’s totally okay to wait a while. ask people out on dates: Remember how when we were kids, we’d taunt each other with ‘shame’?

Being ashamed and embarrassed is a big fear in our culture. I think that’s why we can feel too scared to ask guys or girls out on dates.

Instead, we hang out with friends … then maybe each other … and for some of us, we get drunk and hook up. The perfect romance —said no one ever!

But if you’re a Christian, you don’t need the false confidence of alcohol. You build real, genuine, self-confidence when you know— deep down to your toes—that you are loved and accepted. Jesus tells you that you are. It’s this knowledge that allows us to be vulnerable, to put our hearts out there—just like God does with us. be brave enough to risk rejection: If you do ask that girl or guy out on a date, what’s the worst that will happen? Duh. They’ll say no!

Well, the fact is that rejection is part of life.

Everyone has experienced rejection—poor Dani got brutally dumped on national telly, and she’s still holding her head high. Let’s not forget that Jesus went through heaps of rejection. Jesus never promised we wouldn’t suffer, but he did promise he would walk with us through it.

A lot of people like being asked out.

Sure it can be awkward, but it can also be flattering. And having the courage to ask is something to be proud of, whether they say yes or no.

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FIREZONE.CO.NZ

decide together: The Bachelor gave the impression that it was the guy who had the power to choose. The girl had to just wait to be given the rose of approval and eventually win the ultimate prize of getting her man. But in real life, we work out whether a relationship works together. Both people have an equal say, and their needs and feelings are equally important.

If you’re dating someone who doesn’t show you respect—especially if they’re pressuring you into doing things or going places that you’re not comfortable with—that’s pretty one-sided.

They gotta go! ask God, but DON’T expect a lightning bolt: God very, very rarely gives us that bolt of lightning that says he or she is ‘the one’. A better way to seek God’s will is to ask yourself: does the way this person talks and behaves reflect the values of a follower of Jesus? Does this person have integrity? Do they want to honour God with their lives? Will they encourage me in my walk with Christ? If you can say ‘yes’ to these questions, that is the go-ahead you need from God. When we ask for it, God promises to give us wisdom—and he wants us to use it. treat a date like a marriage proposal: I’ve heard guys say that girls take dating too seriously. And I’ve heard girls say that guys take it too seriously. If you’re fretting that the other person will think asking them out on a date is a marriage proposal, STOP, and remember that you’re not responsible for their reaction.

That’s not saying that we’re going all Bachelor on it and treating other people’s hearts like a game. But we also want to recognise that asking someone out on a date is nothing more than saying, ‘I like what I know of you, and I’d like to get to know you more.’ So don’t freak out about how they’re gonna take it. go on a kissing spree: Dating is probably the best way to get to know whether you could be in a relationship with someone.

But God expects us to maintain our standards of integrity all the way through. WWJD peeps!

It’s not a cliché—Jesus’ presence really is

always with us, so keep checking in with him and make sure you are doing him proud.

Dating relationships are a bit like practise for your marriage relationship—and God expects you to act with faithfulness and respect.

Keep any physical intimacy for when you’ve made a commitment to each other. God created all things sexy to create an exclusive attachment between two people. When we are physically intimate (and even holding hands is intimate), we become emotionally intimate —that’s just how we’re made. Once our hearts are involved it gets harder to use our heads to think about whether we want the same things in life, whether we have the same values, hope and dreams, and whether we’re a good fit together. make excuses: It’s totally a person’s right to ask you out—and it’s also totally your right to say no. But keep your response simple, honest and kind, without giving false hope—try to avoid making excuses that might be confusing for them. Simply say, ‘It’s awesome that you asked me, and I really respect that, but I’m sorry, it’s a no.’ As Jesus said, ‘Let your yes be yes, and your no be no’ (Matthew 5:37).

If you’ve been dating and decide you don’t want to pursue things further, don’t ever say, ‘Oh, I think I gave you the wrong impression.

We’re just friends.’ If you’ve wanted to spend time alone with someone, you are at some level attracted to them—so own it. It’s cowardly to make excuses that will make you look better, but humiliates them.

And don’t just start ignoring their texts—be courageous and have an honest conversation with them. Treat them as you would like to be treated! join a harem: Harems in the Bible always ended up with jealousy, deception and insecurity. The Bachelor harem was no better. We’re not at our best when we compete for a guy or gal —it brings out jealousy and cattiness that are not true reflections of friendship. One of the best things about being a girl is female friendships. I’m sure guys have pretty cool friendships, too, in their own X-Boxy kinda way.

You build real, genuine, self-confidence when you know—deep down to your toes —that you are loved and accepted. Jesus tells you that you are.

… And by the way, you don’t actually need a girl or guy to fulfil you.

So don’t do anything that would destroy or corrupt a friendship—cos they’ll be the ones that are there for you when a relationship goes wrong. just focus on the hotties: In the world of The Bachelor, it seemed like the most important thing to look for in a partner was blonde hair, a perma-tan and a TV body. None of these things will bring you happiness or a fulfilling relationship. As you seek a good partner in life, train yourself to focus on God’s priorities above everything else. The Bible is choc-full of advice about how to build good character—focus on becoming that person. And look for a person with that character. think you can learn anything ‘real’ about dating from The Bachelor: The Bachelor is the last place we should be looking for real relationship advice. It was a completely false environment, in which Art was contractually obligated to kiss multiple ladies. He had a team of people setting up extravagant dates, and a budget of hundreds of thousands. The Bach has nothing to do with real life!

In real life, dating is messy. You’ll have the highs of falling in love. You’ll have the lows of rejection. True romance is knowing your partner will be there for you through all of life—especially when it gets tough. It takes a while to get to that point in any relationship. It takes commitment, courage and faithfulness.

Where you can learn these things is in the Bible and through the life of Jesus Christ.

He said, ‘Seek first [God’s] Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well’ (Matt 6:33). God promises that he will fulfil your needs. … And by the way, you don’t actually need a girl or guy to fulfil you. Shows like The Bachelor don’t make it easy to feel okay about being single. But it is okay. In fact, it can be great to be single (Jesus was single, so there)!

Don’t let anyone push you into a dating relationship you’re not comfortable with. And don’t feel that you don’t measure up if you’re not dating. Just do your thing … and trust Jesus with the rest.

EVENTS | 22

Ōtāhuhu Youth Ready for Battle Over ANZAC weekend, Ōtāhuhu Corps in Auckland put on an actionpacked camp for their young people.

Thirty-six young people and 12 adult helpers spent the weekend hanging out, learning about ANZAC Day and having heaps of fun.

As young people of the corps couldn’t attend Easter Camp or Taupo 7s this year, some of their leaders decided it would be great to run a local camp for them instead. They decided to focus the weekend around ANZAC Day, which allowed for some very creative activities as well as encouraging the young people to be soldiers for God’s service.

The camp kicked off on Friday night at the Ōtāhuhu Corps hall, base camp for the weekend. Young people were split into platoons of four people and set up their barracks. Everyone spent time learning about the meaning behind ANZAC Day and discussing how to make good decisions in their own battles in life. Platoons had to come up with some goals, a platoon flag, and then participate in fun challenges.

After a good night’s sleep, everyone awoke to the 6:30 am bugle call, heading straight into prayer time and devotions. After breakfast, campers participated in duties and learned about the Gallipoli campaign before heading off to the ANZAC Day service at Ōtāhuhu Cenotaph.

After returning to home base, everyone got into some games before having lunch and

then heading offsite for showers. During the afternoon, each platoon shared their goals and took part in some more team challenges.

Platoons had to build a bridge and also carry a ‘wounded’ soldier, which was a lot of fun.

All the weekend’s meals had an ANZAC Day theme, based on World War I recipes.

Saturday’s dinner of ‘army goulash’, along with dessert, was prepared by different platoons.

This was a great way for the young people to learn how to work as a team.

“…inspired by their wartime lessons to be strong, fearless soldiers of Christ.”

After everyone was filled up with their warthemed food, the older campers who were staying over at the hall played a bunch of crazy games like ‘Burma trail’ in the main citadel and then some large-scale outdoor ones at the park opposite the hall.

There was even time to try seated basketball, a game adapted for wounded soldiers.

A lot of effort was put into the weekend, which included wartime documentaries and themed devotions. The corps sourced the food and gear and covered all costs so the young people didn’t have to pay to attend. It was great that so many adults from the corps chipped in to help run the weekend.

The young people loved their weekend experience. Their highlights included games, making wreaths for the ANZAC service, making new friends, learning heaps about WWI, and having a go at the WWI recipes. Another major highlight was having a local rugby league team join in, even though only one of the young people was known to the corps.

It was a great weekend for Ōtāhuhu Corps’ young people, who were inspired by their wartime lessons to be strong, fearless soldiers of Christ.

The next day, the campers attended the morning meeting at Ōtāhuhu Corps and even sang ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ during the meeting.

TRUTH AND SOUL

Soul/Funk

Stan Walker

ALL TIME LOW

Pop Punk

Future Hearts

Truth and Soul is a collection of motown, soul and funk covers from singer Stan Walker, highlighting artists that influenced or inspired Walker’s solo work. The record’s 14 tracks run in at just under an hour, but soul and funk fans will find plenty to enjoy. There are many recognisable tracks and artists here—from Stevie Wonder to Marvin Gaye, ‘Sign, Sealed, Delivered’ to ‘Let’s Get It On’. There’s a lot of reggae influences too, which gives the record a distinct island groove, and Walker delivers vocally with a powerful and measured performance. A good listen for funk/soul genre fans.

Future Hearts is All Time Low’s 6th studio album, and follows up 2012’s Don’t Panic. The four-piece pop punk outfit doesn’t make huge forward strides with their latest effort, but as with lots of their material, it’s a fun and energetic listen. Future Hearts is produced well, and features huge anthemic choruses and catchy power-pop melodies that will easily get stuck in your head. Lead single ‘Something’s Gotta Give’ channels American Idiot-era Green Day, while ‘Tidal Waves’ slows the pace down and features Blink 182’s Mark Hoppus. Future Hearts is a fun, but not particularly innovative listen.

MUSIC

MUSIC

LYRICS

GOD CONTENT

LYRICS

GOD CONTENT

Fun4Kids | 23

match the pairs What helps y ou decide which way t o go in life?

I can run but not walk, have a mouth but can’t talk, and a bed, but I do not sleep. What am I? A River.

Sophie has an important decision to make. Can you help her to reach her Mum so they can talk and pray about it?

read it Trust in the Lord with all your heart.

Never rely on what you think you know.

Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way.

Proverbs 3:5–6 (GNT)

Let’s Talk Junior has been doing orienteering at school. He’s part of team that has been navigating the hills and the bush near his school. Soon, they’re going to compete against some other schools in the area.

When Junior and his friends start, they

look at their map, moving it around until they have matched some of the features of the land around them. That makes it easier for them to work out which way to go. Sometimes they also use a compass, which helps them know what direction to head in—especially when there’s no clear path on their map.

A couple of times they’ve got lost, but their compass and map have helped them find their way back to the right path again. When they get really confused, they ask their teacher for advice.

When we’re not sure what is the right way to go in life, we can pray and ask God to help us understand what to do. Reading the Bible also helps. We

Answer: 1 and 10, 2 and 5, 3 and 8, 4 and 7, 6 and 12, 9 and 11.

What is as light as a feather, but even the world’s strongest man couldn’t hold it for more than a minute?

Your breath.

learn that God wants us to be kind and helpful, for instance, and that God doesn’t want us to hurt or bully people.

Sometimes God helps us make a wise decision by putting people around us who help us make good choices. Never think you have to make an important decision on your own. Ask God to help you find a grownup you can trust who will help you.

Let’s Pray Dear God, I want to make wise choices in life. Help me to remember to pray to you and to listen for your guidance. Help me also to find people I can trust to help me to make good decisions. Amen.

Push your creative boundaries, sharpen your creative skills. Learn to lead, learn to follow. Find your creative place and purpose.

CMDNZFT

EMAIL CMD@NZF.SALVATIONARMY.ORG