FAITH IN ACTION  21 MARCH 2020 | Issue 6738 | $1.50
Glen Eden Corps Celebrates 25 Years They Are Us: Anniversary of the Mosque Shootings Crown Relocations: Our Valued Partnership in Hope
Together We Build Fundraiser Delivers
Hope in Dark Places Child Rescue Works to Free Sex Slaves in South East Asia
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WAR CRY The Salvation Army
New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioners Julie & Mark Campbell | GENERAL Brian Peddle | FOUNDERS William
& Catherine Booth
The Salvation Army’s message is based on the Bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need in his name without discrimination. War Cry exists to support and advance The Salvation Army’s message, ministry and mission. EDITOR Vivienne Hill | GRAPHIC DESIGN Sam Coates, Lauren Millington | STAFF WRITERS Captain Jules Badger, Louise Parry, Bethany Slaughter | PROOF READING Major
Colleen Marshall OFFICE Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street,
PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141, Phone (04) 384 5649, Email warcry@salvationarmy.org.nz, www.salvationarmy.org.nz/warcry SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Resources Department,
Phone (04) 382 0768, Email mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz, $75 per year within NZ PRINT MANAGEMENT www.makeready.nz | PAPER Sumo Offset
is an environmentally responsible paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) FSC® certified Mixed Source pulp from responsible sources and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System. Member of the Australasian Religious Press Association.
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Hope in Dark Places Globally, New Zealand is seen as a small, somewhat protected nation. Yet we have faced major tragedies over the past few years that have not only undermined our ‘safe haven’ status, but caused the people of New Zealand to wonder: What’s next?! Sadly, this question has already been answered for us, as the coronavirus gains traction around the world. We are Te Ope Whakaora—the Army that brings life—and this shapes our responses in the midst of these tragedies. I have no doubt that as our corps and centres collectively assist their communities across New Zealand that they will continue to find creative and life-giving ways to bring hope in dark places. In this week’s War Cry we remember the tragedy of the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre shootings. This unveiled the small Islamic community within our larger community, and challenged our perceptions of people of a different faith. In the last Sunday of March, we engage with the International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth. In response to this, we bring to you an article which highlights the work of Child Rescue New Zealand and their efforts to bring hope in dark places in Asia. We encourage you to pray for this organisation and the work they undertake with children who are exploited and trafficked. Finally, no matter what comes our way, we can be confident that we do not face it alone, Jesus will never leave us or forsake us. In Mark 5:36 it says: ‘Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe”.’ Vivienne Hill Editor
All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated. Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission.
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The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.
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Publishing for 136 years | Issue 6738 ISSN 0043-0242 (print), ISSN 2537-7442 (online) Please pass on or recycle this magazine Read online www.issuu.com/salvationarmynzftwarcry
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Psalms 3:8 (NKJV) Salvation belongs to the Lord. Your blessing is upon Your people. Nga Waiata 3:8 Nā Ihowā te whakaoranga: kei runga i tāu iwi tāu manaaki.
A message at the ‘wall of love’ in Christchurch after the attacks. Photography: Robin Raymond.
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here are some faces you never forget. The face of Macud Ibrahim—Mou’adee, to family and friends—is one such face. The youngest victim of the 15 March 2019 mass shootings in Christchurch, Mou’adee was only three years old. Born here in the supposed safety and peace of Aotearoa, his family escaped the violence in their country, Somalia, twenty years ago. This migrant family not only endured hatred and violence all over again here in New Zealand, but also the loss of their precious son. As memorial services take place around the country, we are no longer a nation in shock, but we are still in mourning—forever changed by that event. It may be a year on from the shootings, but I still feel the loss of Mou’adee and the 50 other people who died at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre in an unnervingly personal way. Like many New Zealanders, the shootings were my wake-up call. It forced me to take an honest look at my assumptions and prejudices. And although I wouldn’t have said so prior to the shootings, I needed to be shaken awake to the realisation that these are loving fathers, protective brothers and women in hijab declaring their faith—just as I do when I wear my uniform. I was struck by our sameness—our shared humanity and experience of faith. I was deeply challenged as family and friends of the victims and injured spoke out about forgiveness and peace and love, even amidst immense grief. Could I have forgiven? Would my faith have held up?
Near where I lived is the Masjide e Umar Mosque. I visited late one evening at dusk the week after the shootings. The verge outside was strewn with flowers, notes and candles, like every other mosque across the country. It was quiet and I couldn’t help but overhear an armed policeman on his cell phone say, ‘Goodnight Princess’, to his young daughter. I felt compassion for Mou’adee’s father Adan, who couldn’t save his child, and who only escaped the shootings by playing dead himself. And I ached for his mother—a woman of faith like me. A different faith, yes, but one that was sustaining her amidst the horrific loss of her child. I prayed for her. So what does it mean to be Te Ope Whakaora— the Army that brings life—in the wake of atrocities such as the Christchurch shootings? How do we bring life when there is unjust death? Light, when darkness threatens to overwhelm? Love, when hate advances with such fury? The anniversary of the mosque shootings sits right in the middle of Lent, mirroring Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. As we progress towards Easter, anticipating the cross, death and resurrection of the sinless saviour, my mind returns Mou’adee—a different kind of innocent slain lamb. And it’s my prayer that as we reflect on his tragic death, as we open ourselves up to the Spirit’s gentle scrutiny and allow our minds to be changed, that ‘they are us’ will become a way of life, not just a tag line. BY JULES BADGER 21 MARCH 2020 WarCry 3
WARCRY INHISTORY
This striking illustration on the front cover of the March 17, 1906 edition of War Cry encouraged New Zealand readers with one of William Booth’s great quotes: ‘Go straight for souls and go for the worst’. Source: The Heritage Centre & Archives at the Ploughman Resource Centre, Booth College of Mission
TEAMOFTHEWEEK
Whangārei Family Store Whangārei trio Robyn Teal (left), Pat King (centre) and Heather Rauahi (right) began serving as volunteers at the Family Store 20 years ago. Pat was first to put her hand up, with daughters Robyn and Heather coming on board soon after. Over the years, they’ve all diversified into specialist roles: Robyn is now the store manager, Heather’s in charge of the clothing and accessories department, with Pat faithful as ever on the till. ‘They represent the true spirit of volunteer work and are examples of what can come from volunteering,’ says Nick Garforth, Area Manager for Family Stores in the Far North, and that’s why they’re our Team of the Week!
‘Come on In’: Rotorua Officially Unveils New Mission Centre The new Rotorua Salvation Army Mission Centre on the corner of Amohia and Pukuatua Streets is officially open for business. While some functions, such as the Family Store and Foodbank, have operated in the new space since December, the February 25 date marked its formal opening. Corps Officers Lieutenants Kylie and Ralph Overbye say the bigger, open-plan building will integrate Rotorua Corps’ ministries into one location, rather than as separate entities. ‘We’re operating as The Salvation Army Rotorua—instead of the Family Store, the Community Ministries and the church,’ Kylie explains.
Below: Shieldy and the kids enjoying a photo opportunity. Bottom: Territorial Leaders Commissioners Julie & Mark Campbell leading the official entry to the new complex.
Weird of the Week: The phrase ‘Do Geese See God?’ can be read forward and backwards.
Commissioners Mark and Julie Campbell —and local politicians were in attendance, plus an extra-special guest: Shieldy. The Family Store, which celebrated the day with sales, has already seen an increase in foot traffic in the new location. ‘There is something about the presence of this place that is extremely welcoming, and it just says, “come on in”,’ says Kylie.
‘It’s a building [that] has got so much versatility to it. The opportunities of what we can do are quite extensive.’
Kylie and Ralph are sincerely grateful to the Midland DHQ Team who, through their hard work, have helped bring a long-time corps vision to fruition.
The day began with a blessing by Dr Ken Kennedy (Te Arawa). Leaders from around the territory—including Territorial Leaders
‘It’s something that has been longed for,’ Kylie affirms. ‘I think this is part of God’s plan for Rotorua.’
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QUIKQUIZ
TOPFIVE
It’s hard to believe that nine years ago, in March 2011, Rebecca Black released her infamous single ‘Friday’ to YouTube. That’s almost a decade of partying, partying—yeah! Here’s a reminder of five other viral songs which captivated the internet in recent years.
1 What is the current name of the hospital in Grey’s Anatomy? 2 What is a ‘lemonade’ tree a hybrid of?
5. W atch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)—Silentó: This (let’s be honest) pretty annoying earworm inspired people to upload their own dance videos of the two title moves, the ‘Whip’ and ‘Nae Nae’.
3 Who won the first series of Dancing with the Stars NZ?
4. C ups (When I’m Gone)—Anna Kendrick: The cover of the Carter Family’s song ‘When I’m Gone’, recorded for the movie Pitch Perfect, which introduced the world to cup choreography and had people scrambling to replicate the routine.
4 How many layers does a coconut have? 5 Who fooled Joshua by pretending to be ambassadors from a distant country?
3. Gangnam Style—Psy: Try as you might to avoid it, this song and its horse-inspired dance was everywhere in 2012. 2. B lack Beatles— Rae Sremmurd: The backing track to 2016’s viral Mannequin Challenge, where a camera panned through a roomful of people paused like, well, mannequins. 1. H arlem Shake— Baauer: Another viral video challenge tune; the Harlem Shake challenge saw a room full of previously humdrum people erupt into dance as the beat dropped on this EDM track.
Bio/Drama/Historical Dark Waters (M, offensive language) Directed by Todd Haynes Sometimes the line between doing the right thing and fighting to validate yourself is more than a little blurry. Such is the case of Robert Bilott (Mark Ruffalo), the attorney who led the legal fight against the DuPont Corporation for knowingly allowing their waste to poison people. Dark Waters chronicles the nearly two-decade quest; and while the legal fight is the primary focus, the toll it takes on Robert personally is the emotional centre of the film. Of particular note is Anne Hathaway’s performance as Sarah Bilott, the faithful wife bearing the strain of their family in the face of Robert’s obsessiveness. The cinematography is disarmingly ordinary, firmly rooting this struggle in the real lives of ‘everyday’ people. A sobering watch, the lingering takeaway for me was the sheer indifference of DuPont in the face of their actions. (Reviewed by Sam Coates)
Answers on page 22
Crumbed Rice Indian Pumpkin Balls 500g pumpkin, peeled and seeded 1 small egg, beaten 2 Tbsp cornflour 2 Tbsp rice crumbs 1 tsp grated ginger 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp diced chilli Salt and pepper, to taste ¾ cup rice crumbs Olive oil spray, for baking
Steam or microwave the pumpkin until tender. Drain well. The pumpkin should be very dry. Mash well, then add the egg, cornflour and 2 Tbsp of rice crumbs and seasonings. Roll into walnut-sized balls and coat with ¾ cup of rice crumbs. Chill for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Spray a roasting pan with oil. Add the pumpkin balls, and spray with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and firm. Tip: Excellent served with a fruit sauce, such as plum.
Source: Jan Bilton/eatwell.co.nz
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Rescuing Innocence Since 2011, Child Rescue has sought to protect and liberate children from sexual exploitation and create a better future for their communities. Former International Director of Aftercare Renee Chopping and International Human Resource (HR) Manager Karen Tokorangi speak to War Cry about the organisation’s work in action. BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER
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t is estimated that over a million children around the globe are trapped in sexual slavery, and Child Rescue is not willing to stay silent. The organisation uses its voice to speak for children in its overseas project nations. Its mission is to rescue, restore, protect and empower children at risk of sexual exploitation. Operating internationally as Destiny Rescue, Child Rescue is the name of the New Zealand arm, which communicates and advocates for its volunteers’ areas of work overseas: rescuing children, helping them through trauma rehabilitation programmes and giving them the skills to pave a new way forward—with incredible success rates. ‘We have rescue agents working in different countries and across cultures to actually go in and physically remove people from situations where they shouldn’t be because they’re a minor,’ says New Zealand National Manager Brian Saipe. ‘We know that somewhere around 84 to 85 percent of the girls who come through our programmes do not return to the sex trade.’ Another major facet of the mission is prevention, ensuring these children are not forced into the sex trade from the start.
Aftercare in Action Renee Chopping was first introduced to Child Rescue through her mother, who worked for an Australian Christian radio station where the organisation was advertising. Renee began to follow their work, and when she finished studying, a position was advertised. ‘I was procrastinating on Facebook,’ Renee laughs, ‘and it popped up, so I thought, Oh, I’ll apply for that and see what happens.’ Child Rescue contacted her within an hour to invite her to an interview. Eight weeks later, she was on a plane to Thailand. Six years on, she was based in South East Asia as International Director of Aftercare, overseeing the organisation’s two rehabilitation programmes. Child Rescue’s aftercare facilities are designed to provide trauma rehabilitation for girls, so they are partnered with a range of organisations who provide care for other demographics they rescue. The average age is 16, however children as young as seven are currently in their aftercare programmes. ‘They’re all heartbreakingly young … unfortunately, it’s a trend we’re starting to see more of, younger and younger girls coming in.’ Residential Care sees a rescued child enter a home with house parents, a teacher and a case worker, for six months. ‘That’s where we deliver the psychoeducation, which is learning about the physical, mental and spiritual effects of trauma, building emotional resilience and also engaging in forgiveness therapy,’ Renee explains. The girls also complete life-skills training (which can include anything from budgeting to cooking) and are introduced to Christian studies and complete vocational training. The preferred option is to place a child back with their family and into the 12-month-long Community Care programme, following a rigorous risk assessment. In this programme, the information from residential care is delivered not only to the child, but their family and community as well. ‘We’re seeing attitudes within the community change because of those relationships that we have, so it’s been a huge win for us.’ 21 MARCH 2020 WarCry 7
A Human Resource Perspective New Zealander Karen Tokorangi, Child Rescue’s International HR Manager (who also works on their Prevention Team), was seeking a career change after fifteen years in the same job. After many attempts fell through, and feeling restless in her spirit, she decided to sell up and travel. From there, God placed each step in front of her. When Child Rescue’s then-National Manager came to speak at her church, Karen offered to visit them and help in any way she could during her travels. Once in Thailand, Karen was blown away by how busy the organisation was. She was told there was a position for her if she wanted it, and knew God was calling her to join them permanently. It was an unexpected answer to her prayer for a career change, but after she talked it through with a friend during a tearful phone conversation, Karen committed to moving to Chiang Rai. ‘I felt like this weight had been lifted, and then from the very next day I started getting excited.’ A major part of Karen’s role is interviewing prospective volunteers. It requires many tough conversations to make sure they have the right people, particularly when choosing their rescue agents. Prospective rescue agents now have to go through a 10-day training course as their final interview process, where they first visit the establishments where these children are enslaved. ‘We’ve had people afterwards go, “actually, this is not for me”, and others where we’ve said, “we just don’t think you’re the right fit”, and it’s good to have that honesty.’ One of the hardest parts is turning away someone who wants to volunteer—particularly if they believe God is calling them to do so. ‘When someone’s saying, “I want to give you something for free”, and we say, “well thank you, but no thank
‘TEACHING THE GIRLS HOW TO PRAY IS ALMOST LIKE GIVING THEM THEIR OWN EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE TOOL … IF WE ONLY TAUGHT THEM THAT, THEY WOULD STILL BE BETTER OFF.’ 8 WarCry 21 MARCH 2020
you”, it doesn’t make sense. But there are reasons behind us having to be careful,’ she says. However, there are lightbulb moments when the right person comes forward. ‘You get excited after talking to them, just because they’re on fire as well, and can’t wait to do their bit.’ Karen’s day-to-day responsibilities are constantly evolving. Outside of her principle roles in HR and Prevention, Karen takes a group of girls for Christian Studies once a week and works with Child Rescue’s Team Visits. On these mission visits, they travel to nearby villages to engage with the locals and do everything from painting to teaching English and social media safety. These communities are a constant reminder to Karen of how the children just want to be kids, whether it is during a pyjama party or a water fight.
The Importance of Prayer and Faith Both Renee and Karen agree that the concept of religion comes naturally to the girls with whom they work. ‘They actually hedge their bets, so they don’t have an issue taking on Christianity, they just don’t drop anything else,’ Karen explains. ‘The concept of there being a god, or millions of gods, isn’t foreign to them, so I think the biggest challenge we have is sharing with them that we believe there’s only one true God,’ Renee agrees. Prayer is a huge part of this learning. ‘Teaching the girls how to pray is almost like giving them their own emotional resilience tool,’ says Renee, who is particularly moved by seeing the girls praying for each other. ‘If we only taught them that, they would still be better off.’ Every month, Karen and her team print out the names of the children in their global aftercare facilities and pray for them individually. They also pray daily for their volunteers, so that this list of rescued children keeps growing and they can continue demonstrating love in action to the communities they work in. ‘When you’re coming up and you’re installing a water filter or you’re painting the playground for them, and then you sit down and have a meal with them, that’s the difference,’ Karen says. ‘They see something in that and say, “Well, we want more of that”.’
The Chain Effect Renee is a passionate advocate for online safety and media literacy, having studied extensively the harms of online sexual
‘THEY’RE ALL HEARTBREAKINGLY YOUNG … UNFORTUNATELY, IT’S A TREND WE’RE STARTING TO SEE MORE OF, YOUNGER AND YOUNGER GIRLS COMING IN.’ exploitation, pornography and their effects on children—an issue which ultimately feeds into the countries where Child Rescue are working on the ground. ‘Some people are so oblivious to it,’ she says. ‘I think it hits a nerve for a lot of people, especially in the West; we’re surrounded by this sex-driven culture that affects us in so many different ways.’ She notices that younger generations are far more open to talking about these issues, reflecting how this oversexualised digital culture has been normalised to them. ‘When I say normal, it doesn’t mean it’s right,’ she explains, ‘but it’s everywhere and so this level of content is not new for them.’ Renee runs workshops with parents who are feeling overwhelmed with trying to guide their children through this digital minefield, and she would love to do more work educating young people about negating the risk factors of the online world with media literacy. ‘It’s definitely had to become part of our programmes in trauma rehabilitation … we were noticing even girls that were in our care were still at risk of being sexually exploited while they’re under our own roof, because they didn’t have those skills.’ Changing attitudes is a significant challenge, such as in Thailand, where the bars that supposedly employ these children are known as tourist spots. People believe that by going to these establishments, they are helping these girls financially. ‘Well, no—give the money to us and we will truly help them,’ Karen says. ‘I would love to get, maybe, the airlines on board, [to play] a video or something before people got to Bangkok and say, “This is not what you need to do”.’
Hope Rising Up While the situation is bleak, there are many tales of hope that emerge from Child Rescue’s work. Renee cites one in particular: a 16-year-old girl in residential care who showed signs of being gifted in hair and beauty. The Child Rescue case workers noticed her talent, and made sure to put her into vocational training, where she ‘flourished’. After working for a local salon
for one year, she opened her own shop and was eventually able to build a home for her family. ‘It was an amazing success for us to be able to see her come right the way through and really turn her life around, but what was more amazing for us to see, was that her family could see that she was capable of so much more.’ Stories like this echo Child Rescue’s desire to delve deeper into prevention and helping communities to seek alternative employment pathways for their future generations. ‘Living in poverty, lack of education and lack of job security—are the three main red flags that continue to come up in each family that we’re working with,’ Renee says. ‘It’s just helping them to see people who would take advantage of that and build resilience.’ For Karen, one rescued girl who comes to mind is a young mother on the church worship team. ‘She stands up there and you know when you can just tell someone is so in love with their Lord. She is just beaming and so confident in who she is. ‘She has this little boy … he points up to the stage and honestly, without even saying anything, you know he’s so proud of his mum. And to think, he has no idea just how proud of her he should be.’
How Can New Zealanders Get Involved? Brian Saipe encourages people to pray for the safety of the rescued children, for business partners to offer employment to these girls, for their volunteers, for Child Rescue’s relationships with local churches, and for more donors so they can continue speaking with people and supporting their overseas teams.
In New Zealand, churches and high schools can contact Child Rescue to ask them to present on the topics of human slavery and people trafficking. MORE INFO | childrescue.org.nz
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Partners in Recovery Injuries are generally associated with sporting incidents or accidents, but can have many causes. Whether the injury occurs on the cricket pitch, in the workplace or merely misjudging a step, in a split second a person’s life can change. Emotions such as anger, frustration and sadness are common for someone suffering from a long term or costly injury. This time requires trust, patience and reliance—and these attributes do not always come easily during a season of disappointment and reduced independence. It can be tough to watch your loved one struggle through injury rehabilitation, whether this is a week or months of recovery. Here are ways you can help, both emotionally and physically.
RECOVERY CAN LEAVE PATIENTS ALONE WITH THEIR NEGATIVE THOUGHTS, SO IT IS IMPORTANT FOR BOTH OF YOU TO FIND THE GOOD IN THIS TIME.
1. Understand What the Injury Means to Them. An injury can represent more than physical pain. It can be disappointing if it rules your loved one out of work, sport or a hoped-for holiday. They might perceive themselves as weak or unable to take care of their responsibilities. Remind them of all the ways they can still contribute, and take opportunities to tell them why you are proud of them and why you appreciate them.
2. Think Positively. Recovery can leave patients alone with their negative thoughts, so it is important for both of you to find the good in this time. Embrace the chance for your loved one to do things they enjoy, but never had the time—such as reading, writing, crafts or watching old movies. Keep their mind active. 3. Communicate. Re-allocate household routines, but make time to sit with them and provide company. Listen to them—but don’t offer unsolicited advice—and also let them know how you are feeling. If they seem discouraged or demotivated, keep them looking to the future. 4. Trust the Medical Professionals. Ask questions so that you understand the rehabilitation process and timeline, and regardless of your medical background, have faith that the doctors often know best. Remind your partner of this if they get anxious or try to push their recovery; many minor injuries are made worse by rushing the rehabilitation process or going back to work too early. 5. Keep Your Partner Connected to Their Pre-Injury Life. Drive them to matches to cheer on their team or host a gettogether with friends.
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People who are rehabbing an injury may not always be cooperative, so it is important to stay motivated as you help them through the process. Be sensitive to their emotional state. Stay on their team, even if it gets hard.
Be Patient
How can you keep upbeat if you’re the one on couch rest? • Accept your negative feelings (anger, sadness, frustration), but don’t let them control you. • Keep perspective. • Stick to your rehab programme—don’t overdo or underdo it. • Try methods such as prayer, goal setting or keeping a journal to stay mentally healthy. • Don’t be lazy—if you are able, find ways to help out around the house. • Channel your energy into new hobbies or tasks. • Don’t push yourself (or you risk re-injuring yourself). • Remember to thank your family members/friends/ neighbours who are taking care of you. Source: psychologytoday.com
TESTIFY! Jack Fareni was delivered from addictions through the grace of God. Now a Senior Soldier at Ōtāhuhu Corps, he shares his testimony of God’s wonderful power and salvation. At the age of 13, I started smoking and drinking. My mother didn’t like it, but I wouldn’t listen. I smoked cigarettes and enjoyed drinking, but soon this was not enough, and I longed for something stronger. On the weekends, I started hanging around with friends at local clubs, socials and discos. We often ended up drinking until early dawn. After a while, I was introduced to marijuana at a party. I only had a few puffs and I was high. I couldn’t wait to have my next puff. For the next 27 years, worldly pleasure became my main driving force and inspiration. I couldn’t give it up, but it had a destructive impact on the rest of my life. I was expelled from school and I ran away from home. Things started to get out of hand, but I didn’t care. I simply waved my problems away by getting drunk or high. I believed, at the time, that I could get away with it. I began to realise my life wasn’t exactly the way I wanted it to be. My friends had gotten on with their lives while I was still fooling around. Others were achieving things, but I had no goal. I felt miserable and low. I knew it was time for a change but didn’t know where to start. I began to read an old Bible I had once received from someone very important. I visited different churches, looking for some comfort and answers. Even though the people I met were friendly and kind, it just didn’t feel right. I still felt desperate for a feeling or sign. Deep inside I cried to the God of the Bible: ‘If you are there, please help me’. One year ago, I found out The Salvation Army was also a church. All I knew was that it helps the poor and attends to
I SIMPLY WAVED MY PROBLEMS AWAY BY GETTING DRUNK OR HIGH. I BELIEVED, AT THE TIME, THAT I COULD GET AWAY WITH IT. the needs of people, so when I was told there was a church, I attended the very same week. On that Sunday, the power of God came over me and I received the Holy Spirit into my life right away. I knew my heart belonged to the Lord. I’d given up alcohol and drugs, but couldn’t give up cigarettes. At first, I thought there would be no harm done, but as my soldiership class ended, I knew I’d have to quit smoking. I struggled to give it up, and cried out again to God, ‘Please help me’. As I lit my next smoke, I felt a strength overtaking me.
I knew this experience from when I first walked into The Salvation Army; it was the Holy Spirit urging me to stop, and I obeyed. I felt relieved and free, and the urge to smoke has never returned. It was a wonderful miracle, and I have experienced many of these. I am thankful for God’s mercy and loving care, and also for the people that he led me to from the start of my journey. I’m here today as a man that has committed many sins, but God saved me, and you too can be saved and set free.
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You Struggle with Public Speaking? Ugh, Tell Me About It. It is the most dreaded task in the school calendar, whether it is an oral presentation, class discussion or packaged into a group assignment: public speaking. BY BETHANY SLAUGHTER
Schools are keen to include public speaking and presentations in curriculum to ensure that students graduate with good verbal communication skills. Unfortunately, even for the seemingly most confident person, public speaking can be terrifying. In fact, more people fear public speaking than dying. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld once joked: ‘If you have to go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy’. So, if you freeze up with cue cards in hand, you’re not alone.
YOU CAN DO IT Let’s debunk a couple of myths, shall we? You don’t have to be a naturally gifted conversationalist to get through public speaking; just as many social, extroverted people struggle with public speaking as shy or introverted types. In a similar vein, just because someone appears confident or an experienced public speaker, it does not mean they are not nervous underneath. Think about your teachers, youth leaders or sports coaches … there’s a good chance that many of them are pushing through a fear of speaking in public. Moses was not a confident public speaker, either. He begged God to send someone else to lead the Israelites
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out of Egypt, saying, ‘I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue’ (Exodus 4:10). But God was not having a bar of it. He encouraged Moses, saying he would always be with him when he spoke and would give him the words to say. Moses was still not convinced, but with his brother Aaron, he was able to lead Israel to freedom—despite being a nervous public speaker. So, take heart. By preparing well and playing to your strengths, you can make it through an oral presentation.
MAKE YOUR WORDS COUNT Regardless of whether you call in sick, schedule an appointment over the class period or physically faint as you walk to the front of the classroom, the reality is there is little chance of escaping that dreaded presentation. There are ways to make it easier and give yourself the best chance of bringing home a great grade as well. First, make sure you have a good content base. The average person says approximately 100–150 words per minute. If you’ve only written 500 words and have little to no understanding of the topic, you will struggle to stretch that out into an eight-minute presentation. Choose a topic or sub-topic which you know well or are most interested in learning about, and know your own abilities. If you have a good memory, then memorise your speech. Make sure that you understand what you
are saying—especially if you are presenting in a foreign language—in case you lose track at any point. If you are better with improvising and thinking on the spot, learn your topic inside out, know your main points and trust your ability to ad-lib.
REMEMBER, YOUR SPEECH DOES NOT HAVE TO CHANGE THE WORLD… Once you have written your presentation, don’t just read it over and over in your head. If you have someone available to listen, read aloud to a parent, sibling or friend and practise making eye contact (an alternative method is to record yourself speaking, and listen to your speech on an audio file). Start off with your whole speech written down, then gradually begin practising with cue cards and adapt them as required until you can present. On the day, make sure you have a water bottle nearby to take a sip if you feel anxious. Public speaking causes a sense of dryness in the mouth, so water is a must-have. Most schools will allow you to present with notes on paper or cue cards. Even if you feel positive that you have memorised your speech to perfection, you never know what might happen when you step in front of the class and the panic sets in. Resist the urge to print out or copy your entire speech; instead, write down key sentences or dot points of the most important information or sections you often forget. Make sure the font is large and easily read. Remember, your speech does not have to change the world; it just needs to be eight minutes long, cover the selection criteria and include at least four to eight quick glances towards the class.
SAY IT RIGHT Here are some public speaking tips you may not have heard from your teacher… Breathe. Obvious, but it is easy to forget. Don’t ramble or speed through your sentences. Pause for a breath after each sentence—you will speak more clearly and make a good impression. What’s more, every time you take a breath, that’s more time you’re not speaking. It’s a win-win! Stop. If you lose your place, then regroup and continue. Eyebrow Contact. If you struggle with eye contact, try looking just above the eyes. Don’t only make eye contact with your friends or teacher, look around the room—but not out the window. Hold your own hand. If your hands are shaking, hold them together (with your cards) to steady the nerves. If your legs are shaking, gently shift your weight from foot to foot. Control your situation. Sometimes teachers will create a random order to speak, but other times you can volunteer to speak earlier. This is the hardest tip, but presenting early means you have less time to stew over your nerves and compare your presentation with everybody else’s.
CLOSING STATEMENT Once you are through your own speech and have given yourself a big pat on the back, think about how you can be a good audience member for other nervous classmates. If they make eye contact with you, then smile and be attentive. It can be a huge help to see a friendly face in the audience.
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Good for Business BY INGRID BARRATT
One company’s partnership with The Salvation Army has become a lasting example of how ‘corporate citizenship’ can transform the community. In 2011, staff at well-known moving company Crown Relocations in New Zealand voted to make The Salvation Army its ‘charity of choice’, and has since forged a lasting and valuable partnership. Awarded the rare ‘Valued Partner’ accolade by The Salvation Army, the company’s passion for social responsibility makes ‘perfect business sense’, says Crown Relocations Country Manager James Logan. Around 200 Crown Relocations staff from across the country were asked to choose which charity the company should get behind: ‘A lot of people have connections to The Salvation Army, it has a strong sense of purpose and the Sallies know who they are,’ says James. Crown created the ‘Big Sallies Surprise’, where they put together events and surprised the Army with its massive fundraising efforts. One of its early events was a sponsored New Zealand Breakers basketball game, which is still a highlight for James—and ‘created an absolute monster’, he laughs. As a former professional basketball coach, James has maintained strong ties with the basketball community. Using a Breakers home game as the penultimate event in a series of activities that involved Crown staff, suppliers and customers, this fundraiser exceeded all expectations. Over 100,000 cans of food and $50,000 in food product were sourced and donated to the Sallies’ foodbanks around New Zealand. 14 WarCry 21 MARCH 2020
Giving Back ‘Corporate responsibility is very important to us,’ reflects James. ‘Giving back to the community is one of our founding principles, but it also makes great corporate sense because it gives people in the company a sense of belonging—so there is a real feelgood factor.’ This ethos of social responsibility has been shaped across Crown’s footprint of 50 countries by their chairman and founder, Jim Thompson. His passion for assisting people in underserved communities is something he’s passed on to his company as a core value, it is embedded in Crown’s DNA. What started as a personal mission has evolved to be a Crown-worldwide initiative. Sustainability has become an important component of Crown, it has the added benefit of saving the company money—since a sustainable company uses less paper, electricity, water and so forth. Crown recently purchased FIL Furniture, a company that specialises in re-selling upcycled office furniture. ‘We are moving towards being a completely circular economy and ensuring there is no waste around office clearances,’ says James. Last year, Crown and FIL sponsored a complete office re-fit for The Salvation Army’s Northern Division offices, using only pre-loved, upcycled furniture. It transformed dark office cubicles, fondly called ‘the bull pens’, into a ‘modern, collaborative space’, says FIL sales manager Rhiannon Sims.
CROWN CREATED THE ‘BIG SALLIES SURPRISE’, WHERE THEY PUT TOGETHER EVENTS AND SURPRISED THE ARMY WITH ITS MASSIVE FUNDRAISING EFFORTS.
‘What was really impressive was that the Sallies staff were thrilled with the upgrade, not just because it was nice, but because they felt they could do better work for their people in the new environment,’ says James. ‘I have tremendous respect for the work the Sallies do and the caring attitude they have— and we aspire to be that ourselves.’
in Royal Oak, Auckland. It even helped a family who had lost everything in a house fire begin rebuilding their lives. James says that whenever there is a need, Crown staff are keen to help. When Cyclone Winston devastated Fiji in 2016, The Salvation Army launched an appeal. ‘We immediately wondered what we could do,’ recalls James. So he approached their business partners Royal Wolf Containers and shipping company Maersk, and together they undertook 14 sailings to Fiji with containers of relief and rebuilding supplies. Ingeniously, once the containers had been emptied, they were repurposed as garden sheds around Fiji. Only last year, Crown donated a warehouse full of goods in a ‘Mega Pop Up Family Store’, held at the Crown Warehouse in Petone, Wellington. It attracted a crowd of thousands, and raised well over the goal of $40,000 for The Salvation Army. Crown has incorporated its partnership with The Salvation Army into its everyday practices. Crown provides a branded ‘Giving Back’ carton for every move, so customers can donate unwanted goods to the Family Store. Crown staff can gift unused annual leave to The Salvation Army as cash, and each branch throughout New Zealand has sponsored a child in the Pacific through the Army’s Cherish a Child programme.
Whenever There is a Need...
Valued Partners
In another impressive example of ‘extreme upcycling’, Crown recently partnered with the Oaks Shores suites in Queenstown, which was undergoing extensive renovations. Crown was contracted to remove the furniture, but approached the body corporate about donating furniture that was no longer needed. Together, they sent seven containers of high-end apartment furniture to Salvation Army centres around the country. Much of the furniture went to transitional housing, helping create a warm and friendly environment. It helped transform houses into homes for the 59 new residents at Te Hononga Tāngata, The Salvation Army’s social housing development
Perhaps surprisingly, James says that it’s not difficult to keep coming up with fundraising ideas. ‘Whenever we put the call out, we always have so many staff members who are keen to contribute. It’s not a hardship for us, people are so passionate about it, they put their own time into it and they love The Salvation Army,’ he says. Salvation Army Public Relations Manager Tim Hamilton says, ‘Crown is so creative, always finding opportunities to contribute and consistently delivers far beyond our expectations. We’re so grateful for this partnership, which has made a difference to so many people in need around New Zealand and beyond.’ No matter what your business, there are ways you can contribute to the community, adds Tim. ‘Crown is a storage and logistics company, but constantly finds innovative ways of using its resources—whether it’s fundraising or using its vast transport network to get items to those who need it most. James is immensely proud of being a ‘Valued Partner’. ‘It meant everything to us, we feel so privileged to be involved in helping the community.’
James Logan with Crown's Valued Partner award.
‘I HAVE TREMENDOUS RESPECT FOR THE WORK THE SALLIES DO AND THE CARING ATTITUDE THEY HAVE—AND WE ASPIRE TO BE THAT OURSELVES.’
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Glen Eden Marks 25 Years in the ‘Heart of the West’
From top: Sina Vemoa and Carol Walden; Tala Brinsdon; Birthday celebrations.
On Sunday 23 February, Glen Eden Corps celebrated 25 years of ministry and fellowship in the ‘Heart of the West’, as the church has been affectionately referred to since the ’90s. In their time at Glen Eden, current Corps Officers Lieutenants Heather and Ivo Pyper have felt blessed by the diverse, welcoming and ‘family-based’ community. ‘We felt at home straight away. That’s been a common theme speaking to the people here. It’s been somewhere they’ve stepped in and felt like they belonged,’ says Heather. ‘We’ve got an amazing leadership team,’ Ivo adds. ‘It’s been easy to come in and partner with them.’ Territorial Commander Commissioner Mark Campbell was present at the service and shared lunch, along with Divisional Commander (Northern) Major Ian Gainsford, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries Colonel Heather Rodwell and Divisional Secretary for Mission (Northern) Major Shar Davis.
Sina Vemoa and Carol Walden, who have both attended Glen Eden Corps since its planting, spoke about their early memories of the church. ‘When it first started, it was actually a bus, so they used to go around in a bus and pick up kids in the community and that’s how Sina’s children got connected,’ says Heather. ‘She was sharing how she couldn’t get to church, and she felt really upset. ‘She prayed about that and then suddenly there was this bus that could pick them up, so that was awesome.’ Heather and Ivo also mention highlights, including the yearly Carols in the Carpark and the recent growth in their youth group—and, of course, the giant bronze gnome which mysteriously turned up on the front doorstep one morning in 2019. As the first Salvation Army church to adopt the programme, Glen Eden also celebrated the 25th birthday of its mainly music group.
Families Gather for Northern Recovery Church Camp Photography: Wi Pirihi
More than one hundred people gathered at One Tree Point, Whangārei, for the annual Northern Recovery Church camp, from 28 February to March 1. Whangārei Corps Officer Captain Jenny Ratana-Koia, part of the organising team, says the focus of the camp—now in its fifth year—is on being whānau. ‘We want whānau to experience being family in a safe environment,’ she affirms. ‘To be able to do that, if only for a weekend, it’s hopefully like a springboard. ‘For a lot of our whānau, it’s the only holiday they get.’ This was the first year that Recovery Church camp was held at Marsden Bay Christian Campsite. People came from North Island Recovery Churches, Bridge and Residential Accommodation services from Kaikohe, Whangārei, Auckland, Manukau and New Plymouth. Activities on offer included a flying fox, volleyball, cage soccer, bumper balls and a waterslide, but there were also many quieter electives and opportunities to connect. A vanload of people travelled to Mount Manaia one day, plus—in such a beautiful location—plenty of time was spent at the beach and on the water. ‘Some people got to do stuff for the first time, and I think that builds lots of things, like confidence, resilience,’ Jenny says. 16 WarCry 21 MARCH 2020
‘People could just chill and chat too, and that’s the goal.’ A Recovery Church service was held on the Friday night, followed by a pō whakangahau (night of entertainment) on Saturday. The group then had church together on Sunday, before sharing lunch on the beach. The camp could not have gone ahead without the hard mahi of the Whangārei team and the support of ASARS. It was a fun and fulfilling family weekend for all involved, encapsulated by feedback Jenny received from a child the following week. ‘I said, “What’s your highlight and lowlight (for this week)?” and she said, “I went to a camp on the weekend … and my lowlight is that we had to leave and go home”.’
Photography: Paul Gardner
Authentic Community at Family Camp
‘We had a few campers come through from Recovery Church— some who’d never been to a church service before. They brought their family members, which was awesome,’ reports Captain Karl Foreman, who leads New Plymouth Corps alongside Captain Christine Foreman. About 70 campers from all walks of life gathered together from February 14–16 in Eltham, Taranaki, with the goal of getting to know each other better. Karl explains that there is a theology that undergirds the impetus for holding regular family camps. ‘The idea of challenging “pseudo-community” has stuck with me, since our days in Napier, under the leadership and teaching of Majors Ivan and Glenda Bezzant. Things can get really superficial in church and we can easily fall into the “Hi, how are you? Have a nice day”, routine—without ever having deeper kinds of conversations. ‘If we want to live in true biblical community, then authentic relationships and honest sharing are part of that—even sharing our failures and sins with one another so that we can be healed. To
access true biblical community, we must go through what we call “the tunnel of chaos” first. It can begin quite awkwardly and feel a bit uncomfortable, but tackling that tunnel is how we make the transition from pseudo-community to true biblical community.’ Unpacking what authentic community looks like was part of the weekend package. ‘We just talked about it, using verses from Colossians 3:12–17—reminding ourselves to put on humility and gentleness and make allowances for one another’s faults. We discussed clothing ourselves with love and forgiving those who offend us. In community, it’s going to get messy and a bit rugged, but it’s worth it! When we get real with each other, we grow.’ Camp activities included water-sliding, clay pigeon shooting, an Amazing Race and toasting marshmallows around the campfire. It’s in the Bag (an homage to the old TV show, complete with ‘Selwyn Toogood’ and his lovely assistant) was also a fun feature of Saturday evening. The weekend concluded with a combined Sunday morning worship service with Hāwera and Stratford Corps joining in.
Waste Not, Want Not The Salvation Army Whangārei Family Store is set to become the hottest place for upcycled boutique fashion. A section of the store sells items from the Family Store’s newly formed clothing collective, Intercept, made from repurposed fabric and clothes donated to the Family Store. This idea was spearheaded by local fabric expert Jenny Hill, who saw an opportunity to ‘intercept beautiful fabrics that would otherwise go to landfill’, creating community around women’s skills while raising funds for the Family Store. Nick Garforth, area manager of Family Stores in Whangārei, says when Jenny first approached him, he loved the concept of reducing fabric waste through salvaging high-quality material. He estimates that the Family Store will send Intercept in excess of 9.5 tonnes of fabric over one year. All proceeds from Intercept go back to the Family Store. Nick tells us that once Jenny opened the idea of Intercept to the wider community, it snowballed incredibly quickly. ‘In two weeks, we had one hundred people interested in volunteering with Intercept.’ They now have a rotation of thirty
skilled volunteers who meet in a room on the shop premises, with a thriving Facebook page and blog site. Nick says as this collective gained traction, ‘We thought, why don’t we launch the label in the shop? We invested in branding, tags and having the shop altered.’ Any products the Family Store are unable to sell, but can be repurposed, are passed on to the collective. Fabric experts salvage material from unusable bed-bases, quilts and other donations, while the designers and seamstresses create a new life for that item. ‘We had 1970s fabric that came in on a bed base, so Intercept repurposed it, made it into a dress and sold it for $85.’ ‘This year, we’ve been challenged by World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle to “reimagine ministry to women”. We think that Intercept is an excellent example of women using their skills to create better outcomes for community, the environment and the world. ‘We hope this inspires you to try something new where you are, with what you have! Who knows what you might be able to give a new life to?’ 21 MARCH 2020 WarCry 17
Together We Build Nails Fundraising Target Together We Build is a fund-raising partnership between Women’s Ministries and Territorial Overseas Development, which raised money to assist the rebuild in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, following the 7.5 magnitude earthquake that struck the island nation in September 2018. The earthquake generated a devastating tsunami, with thousands of people killed and millions displaced. The financial target for Together We Build was initially set at $45,000. Fundraising efforts raised $49,236, with the addition of two significant $20,000 grants, making the grand total $89,236. Nailed it! ‘I’ve been blown away by what’s happened as Salvationists around the territory have mobilised using their creativity and their strength to get behind a common goal,’ reports Rosy Keane, Women’s Ministries Social Media and Resource Specialist. Rosy explains that the vision for Together We Build came about because ‘we wanted to get the whole territory involved. It started with Women’s Ministries, but it didn’t end there’. Territorial Overseas Development Officer Major Debbie Clark, says: ‘We asked the Indonesia Territory how we could help, and through the amazing Together We Build fundraising effort, we’ve been able to raise enough money to replace four badly damaged/destroyed officers’ quarters in Central Sulawesi.’ Government funding constraints meant that The Salvation Army was not able to access funding to repair corps buildings (churches and centres) and quarters (officers’ houses). The Territorial Women’s Ministries department provided online promotional material and resources, including a moving testimony from Captain Susana Asah from Palu Corps. Susana was in the quarters with her son and a cadet when the earthquake struck—the house collapsing around them. Rosy explains that, ‘Susana thought she was going to die, and her husband was missing, but corps people came together to thank God they were alive and just be together. All the pews are outside and they’re meeting under a tarpaulin now! Hearing Susana’s story first-hand and seeing the absolute faith of the Salvationists in Sulawesi—well sometimes a face makes it real and helps us see where the money needs to go.’ Fundraising efforts around the territory included a fourcorps mid-winter Christmas dinner in Christchurch, complete with auction; Glenfield Community Ministries women fully kitted out in high-vis vests as they made use of the tool donation sheet resource; community fabric sale at Napier Corps; de-stash at Waihi; fashion shows at Waitakere, Taupō and New Lynn; and the tremendous faithfulness of Home League craft and sales tables, all over the territory. ‘Salvationists had a real heart for the project and to be generous … Being connected to a much bigger story really spurred people on to good deeds. It really was together we build, and I was so inspired by what we achieved,’ Rosy affirms. Damage in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, following the 2018 earthquake. Photography: Kevin Sandford.
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Successful State of the Nation Report 2020 Following a successful Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit (SPPU) State of the Nation Report 2020, we would like to congratulate the unit for the local and international interest the report garnered. State of the Nation was commented on in many local mainstream media outlets and as far afield as The Guardian newspaper in the United Kingdom. Julia De Ruiter, the Social Media Manager for The Salvation Army was pleased with the response. ‘This year, the report was picked up on social media by key organisations, like the New Zealand Human Rights Commission, New Zealand Drug Foundation and Variety NZ, as well as major news outlets such as One News, Stuff, Newshub and the New Zealand Herald. These organisations were concerned, in particular, with the high rates of youth suicide and extreme poverty levels mentioned in the report.’ The Salvation Army in New Zealand is one of the few territories to have a SPPU. The unit was instigated by a previous New Zealand Territorial Commander and retired General of The Salvation Army internationally, Shaw Clifton, who also established the International Social Justice Commission, based in New York. His legal background and passion for social justice prompted him to envision opportunities for the Army to speak into the public and political arena. GAZETTE Bereavement: Lieutenant Beany Cho, of his step-mother of 27 years, Mansoo Ahn, who passed away on Friday 28 February, in South Korea. We ask you to uphold in prayer Lieutenant Beany Cho, his wife Joanna, and other family members, at this time of grief and loss. Appointment in Retirement: Effective 23 March; Commissioners Andrew and Yvonne Westrupp, Divisional Coaches Midland Division (part time). Please pray for Commissioners Andrew and Yvonne Westrupp as they prepare for this service in retirement.
OUR PRIORITY IS URGENT— MAKE DISCIPLES.
We are all unique: Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa, Beethoven composed Symphony No. 5, Rob Janoff created the Apple logo and New Zealander Ernest Godward invented the egg beater. We are all uniquely and wonderfully made. The Salvation Army from its inception was and is unique: it is international, working in 132 countries; it is part of the Universal Church and is key to the mission of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Many people of all ages and cultures have chosen to be part of The Salvation Army. Our DNA is caring for people, transforming lives and reforming society by God’s power. We are called by God and we choose to follow him. In our ‘We Commit’ statements, we are committing to make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus challenges us in Matthew 28:19 to go and make disciples. Part of our mission as disciples is to invite others to come into relationship with Jesus Christ. Once they have decided to follow Jesus, they will then go and tell others in their families and communities. God wants us to share the good news, just where we are. Our priority is urgent—make disciples. How do we tell our story? What was our life like before we met Jesus? What changed when we realised we needed Jesus? We are now committed to share life with Jesus and share the difference He has made in our lives. God challenges us to go and do. He promises He will be with us, He will equip us with the Holy Spirit, who will empower us to let the light of Jesus shine in our lives. Do you want to become a Christian? There is no set formula to becoming a Christian, but many people have found this prayer to be helpful as the first step into a relationship with God: Lord Jesus Christ, I am truly sorry for the things I have done wrong in my life. Please forgive me. I now turn to you. Thank you that you died on the cross for me, so that I could be forgiven and set free. Thank you because you give the gift of your Holy Spirit and this gives me forgiveness and hope for the future as you come into my life. Thank you Lord Jesus, Amen. Do you want to know more about Jesus? Do you need help? Are you seeking and asking questions? If so, contact your local Salvation Army, or call Territorial Headquarters, Wellington. The challenge for all of us is to go and make disciples. Go and tell the good news so that your friends and communities will know the loving and saving power of Jesus Christ. Colonel Melvin Fincham Territorial Secretary for Mission
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EPHESIANS 6
part two
THE WRONG KIND OF RIGHT In part two of this occasional series on the armour of God, we warn against the wrong kind of right. BY JULES BADGER
I’m not ashamed to admit it—I hate being wrong. And I know I’m not the only one. Most of us like to be right as often as we can. Let’s face it, no one deliberately sets out to be wrong. I must confess, however, that sometimes I care more about being right, than I do about being right with God. There are times when I’m guilty of being selfrighteous, rather than seeking God’s righteousness. In Matthew 6 we are urged to, ‘Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness’. But if I’m honest, sometimes it’s my own kingdom I’m trying to build—and from the suspect material of self-righteousness at that. But I don’t think I’m alone in this.
Not our job Sometimes as Christians we all fall victim to the wrong kind of right. Satan 20 WarCry 21 MARCH 2020
wants us working hard at being right. He wants us constantly striving to be better Christians. He wants us comparing ourselves with each other. He wants us to measure ourselves against standards God has not set! You see righteousness is not something we do—that’s what Satan wants you to believe—it’s something Jesus did for us! We are made righteous because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. Righteousness is not our job—it’s God’s. In 2 Corinthians 5:21 it says, ‘God made him (Jesus) who had no sin to be sin for us, that in him (Jesus) we might become the righteousness of God’.
It’s a trap! We all know the old saying, ‘two wrongs don’t make a right’, but the truth is, all my wrongs, he makes right! And it’s crucial that we digest this truth, because if we don’t, we’ll spend our lives caught in the lie that we can somehow earn God’s favour through what we do—even keeping rules or self-flagellation when we fail. We mustn’t allow ourselves to get caught in this trap of legalism, because it
IF WE DON’T KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT WHO GOD SAYS WE ARE, WE ARE VULNERABLE TO THE ENEMY’S LIES. will only lead to a life of condemnation and defeat. We can never measure up to a standard built on lies and deception. God is the true source of righteousness. There is nothing we can ever do that will make us righteous apart from trusting in the work of Jesus Christ. Romans 3:21 says, ‘But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law has been made known, to which the law and the prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
THERE IS NOTHING WE CAN EVER DO THAT WILL MAKE US RIGHTEOUS APART FROM TRUSTING IN THE WORK OF JESUS CHRIST. feeble attempts at righteousness will never be sufficient to protect you—not even close—so wear mine. Let my righteousness absorb the barrage. I’ve got you covered’.
But wait, there’s more
There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus’.
The right fight Righteousness comes through who we put our faith in. It’s gifted to us by the grace of The One we give our lives to. And Satan’s attacks are no match for God’s righteousness. When we wear God’s righteousness like a breastplate, we can move forward offensively with confidence, rather than reacting defensively. In fact, we could say, we fight by being right with God. In part one of this occasional series (22 February), we explored the truth about lies and discovered the importance of putting on God’s truth every day as a foundational spiritual practice. If we don’t know the truth about who God says we are, we are vulnerable to the enemy’s lies. Interestingly, the Apostle Paul links truth and righteousness closely together. Ephesians 6:14 says, ‘Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around
your waist, (and) the breastplate of righteousness in place’. A typical Roman soldier wore a breastplate made of bronze or chain mail. It covered the vital organs, namely the heart. Often it was attached with loops or buckles to the thick belt. Webster’s Dictionary defines righteousness as ‘the state of being and acting in accordance with moral law and being free from guilt and sin’. We could look at it like this … Righteousness is the state of being (what Jesus has done for us) and acting in accordance with divine or moral law (our response to what Jesus has done for us), so that we are free from the power of sin and guilt. Powerful! Righteousness is ‘being right’ with God. It’s not borne of works—we can’t make ourselves righteous—it’s rooted in a growing relationship with God. Isaiah 64:6 explains, ‘But we are like an unclean thing, and all out righteousness is like filthy rags’.
When Paul says, ‘put on the armour of God’, not only is he drawing on imagery from the Roman soldiers all around him, but also on some powerful imagery from the Old Testament. Isaiah 59:2–16 speaks of iniquities so terrible they’ve separated the people from God. Sins so grave that they have hidden God’s face and stopped up his ears. The people seek redemption—someone to redeem them, and God responds in verse 16: ‘The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so, his own arm worked salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in a cloak of zeal.’ This is our God! Defeating sin and injustice with the power of his own righteousness. When Paul said, ‘put on the armour of God’, he had so much more in mind than mere humanwrought armour worn by a Roman soldier. God’s own righteousness shielded and protected and sustained him as he intervened. This is the power of God’s righteousness. And it’s available to us through faith. Amen!
Filthy rags make for a lousy breastplate! It’s as though Jesus is saying to us, ‘Your 21 MARCH 2020 WarCry 21
OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS Commissioners Mark (Territorial Commander) and Julie Campbell (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries) 18–24 March: International Conference of Leaders 2020, Portugal 1 April: Spiritual Day at Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt Colonels Suzanne (Chief Secretary) and Melvin Fincham (Territorial Secretary for Mission) 21 March: Māori Ministry Council, Auckland 22 March: Recovery Church, Mount Eden, Auckland 27 March: Church Leaders meet with Prime Minister, Auckland 1 April: Spiritual Day at Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt Colonel Heather Rodwell (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Spiritual Life Development) 1 April: Spiritual Day at Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt
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Quiz Answers: 1 Grey Sloan Memorial, 2 Lemon tree and mandarin tree, 3 Norm Hewitt, 4 Three (exocarp, mesocarp & endocarp), 5 The Gibeonites (Joshua 9:4–16).
22 WarCry 21 MARCH 2020
Create your own puzzle Colour in the puzzle pieces below, then cut them out to make your own puzzle. Do this with a friend and swap puzzles! Fun Fact All Fruit Loops colours are the same flavour.
Lost in the crowd! Can you find... 8 people wearing hats 1 person with blue hair 10 people wearing glasses 1 person listening to music 7 people with facial hair
What did one elevator say to the other elevator? I think I’m coming down with something!
‘He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering”.’ Mark 5:34
In the New Testament, there was a woman who had been sick for twelve years. She had paid everything she owned to doctors, but not one of them could make her better. She was in horrible pain and could only see a life of suffering ahead. Then, one day, she learned Jesus was in her town! Deep in her heart, she believed so strongly that if she could just touch his cloak, she would be cured. She pushed her way through the crowd, and the moment she touched his robe, she was healed. Jesus immediately stopped and asked, ‘Who touched me?’ He had felt power go out from him. The disciples pointed to the large crowd and said any of the people could have brushed alongside him, but Jesus knew someone had reached out. The woman courageously stepped forward and admitted it had been her. He replied, ‘Your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering’. This woman believed Jesus could do the impossible. Touching his cloak transferred the healing power to her body, but it was her faith that truly saved her. Our faith is powerful. When we are courageous and keep praying for change—even when it seems futile —God can do amazing things. THINK ABOUT ...
What is something bad in the world you wish could be changed, but seems impossible? Can you pray about it this week? 21 MARCH 2020 WarCry 23