Slightly Irregular

C'MON!

2012-01-15T15:54:00.000-08:00

Very Clever: Watch Soul Pancake Orchestra.

Even the title: Super Soul Sunday.

http://www.oprah.com/own-super-soul-sunday/SoulPancake-Air-Orchestra-Video

TSA should be leading the charge with this kind ofcontemporary street corner ministry – two fold: 1) On the street corner with50-60 people. 2) Filmed and placed on the Cyberspace street corner withmillions of participants. It’s in our DNA. Our ancestors, some of themliterally giving their lives, claiming the street corners for Jesus, some alsogoing to jail for it. It’s what made us unique. Or as Phil Cooke says in hisbook, Branding Faith, “Differentiateor Die!”

We’ve lost the privilege that so many fought for; we’vegiven it away. Let’s get creative and reclaim it contemporarily. I witnessed asmidgen of this happening around the Christmas Kettles this year, a few of themfilmed and taken viral. Let’s take it beyond fundraising to heaven raising.There are some bright, creative, energetic souls in our training colleges.Release and empower them to get out there and reclaim our birthright.

North Beach A La 1964 - Coffee & Confusion
Salvation (Fok) Singers - Hippie Era

That's me on the bass fiddle and Doris up front. Every Monday evening right from performing on the street corner, Columbus and Broadway, in front of The Condor Club - America's first topless nightclub. If we'd only had the Internet then.

You come up with the idea, organize it and SAVN.TV will film it and take it to the Cyberspace street corners. Oprah Winfrey (OWN) is claiming what TSA created. And she’s calling it “Spiritual Enlightenment.”

C’MON!

Opening Salvo 2012!

2012-01-01T12:19:00.000-08:00

Couldn't Resist It

The Salvation Army hasissued an order: “Courageously Experiment!”

The Salvation Army hasregulated you to: “Be willing to be dedicated to failure!” In other words, be willing to takea risk now and then.

Don’t take my word, readit for yourself:

...he will not only make use of the Army’s time-honored methods ofevangelism, adapting them in the most effective way possible to the needs ofthe hour, but he will courageously experiment with new ways of making Jesusknown as Savior of men. In other words, he will be willing to be dedicated tofailure. In the divine economy this could be the way to God-glorifyingsuccess. (pp 18) Orders and Regulations.

Myopening salvo on the cusp of 2012.

Slightly Irregular: CHRISTMAS NEWSLETTER 2011!

2011-12-26T19:54:00.000-08:00

Slightly Irregular: CHRISTMAS NEWSLETTER 2011!: From joeNdoris December 24, 2011 Doris: Retirement has not slowed us down and as long as our health is good and our minds are clea...

CHRISTMAS NEWSLETTER 2011!

2011-12-24T15:59:00.000-08:00

From joeNdoris
December 24, 2011

Doris:

Retirement has not slowed us down and as long as our health is good and our minds are clear (though some may be doubt that aspect!). We remain transient. If we are not in La Quinta or Honolulu or Redondo Beach we are, most likely, down under, up over or somewhere in between!

Our thoughts this Christmas season are filled with memories of years past and the friends and family who have shaped our lives and deepened our life experiences.

• Briefly, this years highlights include fulfilling our responsibilities as President of theSAWROA (Salvation Army Western Retired Officers Association), planning and

organizing the annual retreat at Mt. Crags Camp in Calabasas. General Paul Rader andCommissioner Kay Rader were our guests for the weekend. We had a great time! 80plus in attendance.
• In September I attended my 50th(!!!!) Reunion in San Francisco with my St. Luke’sSchool of Nursing class. Amazing how little we all have changed in 50 years! It was awonderful time of reminiscing and getting caught up on the lives of classmates after 50 (!!!!) Years. It was SO much fun!

• In November we were delighted to be invited to New Zealand for an Officers Retreat.Two divisions, along with the officers on THQ meeting together north of Auckland forfour days. Wonderful! Commissioners Don and Debbie Bell loaned us a car and a GPSand we spent six days touring the North Island. What a beautiful country! (See photo: ariver trip not soon forgotten!!)

• Now, here we are in Honolulu with our grandkids for the Holidays, our third trip this

year. Such a blessing to be able to spend time with these delightful children!

Joe:

Clarification. Doris was President of SAWROA. I was her GOPHER. And she did a great

job, I might add.

The photo above was taken just moments before the Jet Boat ride in New Zealand. Notice

that Doris is smiling. Not so, had this been taken after the ride. She was expecting a gentle

ride up to the falls and back, picture taking ops and all. Not so, it was a water version of the

old Deja Vu Roller Coaster at Six Flags, only we weren’t strapped in, cracked ribs and all.

A highlight this year was an Alumni Dinner in the old Broadway Youth and Family Center

Gym, the week before it came tumbling down to make way for the impressive new Kroc

Center taking its place. It was deja vu all over again, lots of hugging, tears and reliving great

memories. We’re looking forward toward doing it all over again, May 18, 2012, when the

new center will be dedicated – but this time looking forward.

Finally, for me especially, this year has been all about SAVN.TV (Salvation Army Vision

Network). It’s a daring, cutting edge venture and I feel fortunate and privileged to be a small

part of it – what we believe will eventually become a galaxy of Cyberspace congregations.

This is TSA’s virtual, Cyberspace Street Corner of the 21st Century – PROPHETIC! BOLD!

UNIQUE! It’s an Internet TV Network and Mission Station designed to fulfill The Great

Commission – it’s website (Cyberspace Interactive Theater) still under creation. The

interactive part is what will be exciting, transformative and unique. Click on over and take a

look: WWW.SAVN.TV - more detail on its vision/mission under “About Us.”

McKenna (13), Riley (12), Shea (8)
and Parker and Hayden (4)

Children of Rob and Denise. The

girls are thriving at Punahou

School and the boys started Preschool

(Hallelujah!) The oldergirls write for the school paper,Riley is in the school Choir and

all three girls are in the activitiesat the Kauluwela corps. The boysare charming, mischievous andvery active. Great kids!

Rob & Denise are busy with the Revolution Hawaii ministry, Waianae ministry (year 11), Upper-Room ministry and Dee with Hawaiian Airlines! Plus 5 kids!

Guy and Samantha celebrated their 2nd
Anniversary Dec. 5th. Guy is now Executive

Director of SAVN.TV. Samantha is in her second

year as RN Director of Residential Care at the

Salvation Army Alegria facility in Los Angeles.

New addition to their home, Buster Brown, a

Boxer puppy that thinks he is a lap dog. Both

Samantha and Guy are very involved in church life

at the Pasadena Tabernacle corps.

We send our blessings to you for 2012!!

Happy New Year!

joeNdoris

PROPHETIC! BOLD! UNIQUE!

2011-12-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

First, in preface to the above title, SAVN is happy toannounce another “Great Commission” collaboration with Doug Hertle, Christianstand up comedian. Check out one of his Christmas routines put to animation overat www.SAVN.TV. One viewer writes, “I couldn’t stop watching this, I saw it 4times in a row!”

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Second, in reference to the above title, the following writtenin response to a post on www.ArmyBarmy.comblog (December 19, 2011):

Steve Court gets it right much of the time, but I must challengehis off the cuff take on Rick Munn’s Top Ten list for 2011 - #6 SAVN.TV Launch.His comments do not reflect the essence of what SAVN is all about, which isunderstandable, as he’s not immersed in it. First, it is not a movie studio. Itdoes have a sound stage and with film making capabilities. It is an InternetTelevision Mission Station with content being developed in all types of venues.Studios in and of themselves are relics of the past, especially when it comesto distribution. Innovation and creativity are the bywords for SAVN.TV.

Second, it would be stretching it to say that LimelightStudio was fully fledged. It had barely begun before it was ended,unfortunately – so no comparison there, hopefully.

Third, Words of Life was not a network, it was a showproduced for network television (not really sure which network). SAVN is anInternet TV Network already collaborating with several production companies tofeature their films on its network – Sound Enterprises and Living Waters toname a few – many others in the works – so no comparison here.

Fourth, whilst it is true that SAVN has only posted ahandful of videos and films (25 to be exact), the website clearly states thatit is a “Preview Site Under Creation” (Only 14 weeks in the making). It’screators want viewers to experience its development with them, slowly, soundlyand surely. And what sc can’t know or see, again understandably, is the wealthof creative content in its developmental stages, much of it already in the can,a lot still in the editing bay, this because the creative team is still comingtogether – a work in progress.

Fifth, the website (Cyberspace Interactive Theater), stillunder construction, is far more complex than one would imagine, because of theinnovative interactivity that is envisioned – no comparison to the studio-boundfilm industry, or any of the other Christian web-based film sites. In fact, theexperts have told us that SAVN is a pioneer in this area.

Finally, prophetic is a good word and we give an A+ to scfor this observation. However, “prophetic” is no reason to downgrade theenthusiasm that Munn rightfully exudes for SAVN.TV. And I can assure sc that itis much more than “a bold commitment of resources to the Internet,” although itis surely that as well.

Thanks rm and sc for giving us a platform to voice theseclarifications and help eliminate any other confusion or misconceptions thatmight be rumbling around out there.

Stay tuned! WWW.SAVN.TV

Note: If you’re stopping by for the first time, or haven’tin awhile, be sure to read the relevant posts below.

LET ME PUT A BUG IN YOUR EAR - A LOVE BUG!

2011-12-19T16:03:00.000-08:00

The word, “Bug,” often has a negative connotation as in,“Don’t bug me,” or “Bugaboo,” a legendary scary creature. And in computingterms, to get a bug is also a scary thing, one that infects your computersystems, often with disastrous consequences.

Then there’s the Love Bug, an insect that has taken onmythical proportions, as in “The Love Bug Bites” – like these lyrics from “LoveBug Itch.”

Oh my pulse beats fastmy fever starts to rise

My heart goes pitty-patwhen I look into her eyes

I break out in a sweatand I begin to twitch

There ain’t novaccination for the lovebug itch

Over at SAVN.TV, we’re introducing a Love Bug of spiritualproportions. “God is love” (1 John 4:16). SAVN is a contraction of the word,“Salvation.” Look at the preceding verse (15): “If anyone acknowledges thatJesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God.” Love (with acapital “L”) begets salvation, and vice versa.

Now that we’ve put a Love Bug in your ear, lets’ get it intoyour computer and into your mobile computing devices. This bug isn’t scary, noris it disastrous; it’s life giving. We want you to get the Love Bug itch, andwe want the itch to spread.

As noted in the previous post, there is an Embed button inthe top right hand corner of certain clips, those that we would like for you toshare (Cyberspace Gospel Tracts). Click on that button, copy and paste intoFacebook, Twitter, Blog, wherever. Copy the following and insert with thecopied imbed link:

When you begin toplay the clip, an “Embed” button will appear in the upper right hand corner. Clickon it, copy and paste into Facebook, Twitter, Blog, wherever. Share with yoursocial media network. Then click on the SAVN logo in the bottom right handcorner and explore all that this virtual Salvation Mission Station has tooffer.

Copy for Twitter: Upperright hand corner: Click, copy, paste. Lower right hand corner: Click.

Note that, in computer terms, this inserted SAVN logo isreferred to as a “bug.” In SAVN terminology, we refer to it as a “Love Bug,” becausewhen clicking on it, the “whosoever” will be directed back to SAVN.TV whereLove and salvation can be found.

Those, reading this post, are joining us in the beginning,experimental stage of introducing the “Love Bug Itch.” We direct you to twoclips for this purpose. The first, referred to in our previous post, “The Tonight Show.” This is a hook, designed to attract people back to SAVN.TV,among other things. The second, “Any Means Necessary,” is designed as aCyberspace Corner introduction to the vision and mission of SAVN.TV, which isthe first in a 3-part series.

My heart beats fast my spirits rise

The Love Bug’s message fills my eyes

When bitten by the SAVN Bug

I want to give my friends a hug

Instead I’ll give the site a click

I know that this will do the trick!

You’ve now been exposed to the Love Bug. Pass it on, please!

Note: Read the posts below before continuing on, if youhaven’t already.

A Virtual Cyberspace Gospel Tract!

2011-12-17T20:18:00.000-08:00

Before reading on, check out the December 16 post below, ifyou haven’t done so already.

We’ve just added a short clip on SAVN.TV. In the clip, JayLeno gives a shout out for The Salvation Army: “C’MON, YES! GIVE TO THESALVATION ARMY.” When you start the clip there will be an “Embed” logo in theupper right hand corner. Click on that and it will bring up a copy link. Hitcopy and then place the link on your Facebook Page, Twitter, Blog or whereverin your Social Media connections.

Did you know that a 60 second advertising spot on The Tonight Showcosts approximately $130,000? We can optimize this by taking it viral. Let’sconcentrate on getting it out beyond The Salvation Army culture – over the next7 days. A bonus is that it will bring viewers to SAVN.TV, where they willreceive the Gospel message.

Think of this “Tonight Show” video clip as a hook. It’spurpose, among other things, is to grab one’s attention. SAVN is not only anacronym for Salvation Army Vision Network; it’s also a contraction of the word,“SALVATION” – it’s our middle name, and the purpose for which we exist. Take amoment and under “Promos” on the website, check out the clip titled,“Salvationist.” Also, read the “Mission/Vision” Statement under “About Us.”

Another way to think about this is as a Cyberspace tract.Those old enough will remember standing on the street corner and passing outGospel tracts with the plan of salvation clearly communicated, and every tractwas designed with a hook in order to attract one’s attention, make them want toread it. When you send one of our links to those on your Cyberspace streetcorner, it will make them want to delve deeper, and some will find salvation. And it’snot as threatening as standing on a street corner.

So, we encourage you toshare these virtual Cyberspace Gospel tracts as they are posted – help usfulfill “The Great Commission” and take the Gospel “to all creation.”

JN

SPREAD IT ON!

2011-12-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM represents another “GREAT COMMISSION” collaborationwith Sound Enterprises, Inc. The principals of this company are Brad Damon andJim Caviezel, who played Jesus in “Passion of the Christ.” Click on www.seizoom.com for a full compliment oftheir creations – more to be featured “future tense” on SAVN.tv as this CyberCorner Mission Station progresses.

Scholarsdebate whether the Star of Bethlehem is a legend created by the early church ora miracle that marked the advent of Christ. Is it possible that the star was areal astronomical event?

From Producer Stephen McEveety (The Passion of the Christ) comes an amazingdocumentary on the Star of Bethlehem. This presentation has been viewed by tensof thousands in the U.S. and in Europe and this new DVD reveals the evidencefor God's existence as seen in the stars above.

PresenterRick Larson walks you through biblical and historical clues revealing theeternal significance of this celestial event as well as the vastness of God'screativity. Discover the secret of the Star. For more detail on purchasing thisDVD:

http://www.seizoom.com/ProductGroup.aspx?PGId=18658fc3-91d2-4a53-8af7-4ab55f435b80.

BANG AND BUMP are creations of HulGreen Productions (SeeFacebook page). Its creators are Jerome Green and David Hulteen Jr,Salvationists in New York City. Their mission is “to make as many people happyas possible.” SAVN resonates with this mission and looks forward to acontinuing “future tense” GREAT COMMISSION collaboration together.

TCSPEAK: FUTURE: Cyberspace Evangelism. “The genius of The Salvation Army” – “Cathedral of the Open Air”(See Oct. 25 post) – wasn’t intended to be a past tense phenomenon; God alsomeant for it to be a “present and future tense” reality.

Jim Knaggs continues laying out his vision for SAVN.tv – afuturistic virtual Cyberspace street corner – in this second episode of hisfoundational series. For this panel he has invitedsome bright people, revolutionaries in their own right, knowledgeable andpassionate, to help him explore this “reality” more fully: Guy Noland, Lincoln Hawk, Gavin Smith and Fulton Hawk.

Click on over to “About Us” and read the two posts, “UnderConstruction” and “Mission/Vision” for further clarity on the “past” and“future” part. And while you’re at it, why not explore all the Cyber StreetCorners on SAVN.TV?

WWW.SAVN.TV

Unorthodoxy in Reverse and Way to Go, Jerry!

2011-11-26T09:55:00.001-08:00

Here are some random thoughts, connected in a strange sortof way:

The Stanford University Marching Band makes me smile whenthey perform. Their unorthodoxy and uniqueness make them special. Take a look:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtILHALcUN8

Have you discovered your own personal unorthodoxy, individualityand uniqueness? If not you should, because that’s what makes you special.Without it there would have been (would be) no Salvation Army. And look at thepublicity (good and bad) that it has generated historically.

Resistance to change (orthodoxy) is scary. “Orthodoxy: Notindependent-minded; conventional and unoriginal.” Crystal Cathedral is anexample of unorthodoxy in reverse. Take a look:

http://losalamitos.patch.com/articles/crystal-cathedral-will-s

http://www.npr.org/2011/11/18/142518963/future-of-ministry-uncertain-after-cathedrals-sale

http://www.christianpost.com/news/the-day-the-crystal-cathedral-died-62568/

It’s unwillingness to change – powerstruggle between family members – shades of 1929. Resting on your laurels is adangerous thing. Crystal Cathedral to Catholic Cathedral, talk aboutunorthodoxy in reverse.

The recent Dallas Cowboys Half timeshow featuring The Salvation Army rankled a few of the saints because it wasunorthodox and seemingly secular in its message.

http://www.enriqueiglesias.com/profiles/blogs/enrique-performing-for-the-dallas-cowboys-thanksgiving-halftime-s

Jerry Jones is known for hisunorthodoxy, and an avid supporter of TSA, his perception being that theorganization is independent-minded, unconventional and original. Way to goJerry, thanks for your confidence in us and for your continuing support.Besides, who was it that said…

Thereis no such thing as bad publicity except your own obituary.

Thereare more important things to get rankled about… like unorthodoxy in reverse,for example. Ask Jesus about that.

ABSURD!

2011-11-13T12:29:00.001-08:00

Steve Court has an interesting post up over at www.armybarmy.com - November 13. I’m not toosure about everything he says, but a lot of it resonates, especially the partabout COS, CS and DS roles. I am firmly convinced, after suffering through severalof these chairs, that they should not be a means to an end, but rather an endin themselves. A gifted Chief Secretary does not a gifted Territorial Commandermake. Good managers do not necessarily good leaders make, as has been welldocumented.

I’m also inclined to question his minimization of a one-timeTC or DC. I’m predisposed toward the role of Corps Officer as criticallypreparatory for leadership in any eventual command leadership position,especially if experienced in a multiplicity of corps shapes and sizes. Thereinlies the litmus test of successful leadership – success at the grass rootslevel. DS, CS and COS, while essential roles, prepare one to be a manager, nota leader. Good leaders surround themselves with managers. It would be absurd tothink that good managers surround themselves with leaders, but that absurditydoes exist.

Think about it. Every officer beyond a certain age level iseligible for nomination at the High Council. Think with me hypothetically for amoment: MBA Degree, 5-years experience in a secular profession, SFOT (betteryet, field commission), 30-years very successfully leading corps (corps plant,medium size, 5-years combined school/corps in India/Africa, 10-years large, multifacetedcorps command). Now 60 years old. Seems to me the perfect recipe for a two-termInternational Leader with retirement at age 70 (If you prefer to throw in a3-year term as TC, Ok by me). Culturally impossible, perhaps, but not absurd!Think Steve Jobs.

And that person would really get it, wouldn’t she? And hewould be a great asset to her, wouldn’t he?

Impossible is Nothing!

2011-11-11T14:03:00.001-08:00

Matthew 20:17

I was a Cadet in San Francisco on February 25, 1964 when thethen Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) defeated Sonny Liston for the boxingheavyweight title of the world. I sat in the lounge listening to that fight onradio when Clay first proved to the world that “impossible is nothing.” I lovehis now famous quote referencing the same:

“Impossible is just a big word thrown around bysmall men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given than toexplore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's anopinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is potential.Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.”

We just finished an Officer’s Retreat in New Zealand andwish I had shared this quote with them because it fit the theme so nicely. Nowhere’s a territory I would have delighted to serve in. There is a freshness ofspirit, a willingness to spread wings and attempt something new – no fear!After all, this is where bungee jumping made its debut, isn’t it? Extremesports a natural here. Extreme evangelism a natural fit. I would be tempted touse the term “out-of-the-box” to describe the spirit of this territory, except…

I never use the term, “out-of-the-box thinking” because withGod boxes don’t exist, nary a one to “think out of.”

Out-of-the-box thinking is nonsensical,

It’s absurd, boring, silly and whimsical

Would God be accused of thinking such?

Alas, He wouldn’t have created much.

Boxes non-existent with the all-seeing,

Boundary free when ‘bringing into being.

No old boxes when creating you:

“Behold! I’m making everything new.”

Interestingly, the “All Blacks,” New Zealand’s rugby teamhad just edged out France for the World Cup one week prior to our arrival. Itwas All Blacks mania everywhere, and we got caught up in the excitement. One oftheir slogans: “Impossible is Nothing!” Didn’t Jesus say something like that? Andcertainly with more mountain-moving credibility and life changing power than Muhammed Ali.

This is the spirit we sensed amidst the officers in thisexciting, forward-looking, boundary less territory:

IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING!

Radical Mission!

2011-11-05T19:39:00.000-07:00

Justcompleted a retreat time with a dynamic group of officers in the New ZealandTerritory. The mission statement for this retreat was as follows:

"Ouraim is that the Fellowship will be a time of inspiration and vision withofficers returning to their appointments having experienced a fresh encounterwith Christ and reignited in their passion to be radical agents of missionalchange."

The BiblicalContext: Acts1:8 (JNV) – Jesus’ last words to his disciples (includes us), His last (alwaysfresh) encounter: "I’m out ofhere. What you'll get in my place is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spiritgrabs hold of you, He will ignite a passion in you like never before. And youwill be become creative agents of radical missional change, even to the ends ofthe world." Disciple: Definition - A creative agent of radical missionalchange. That’s how I define it, and have tried to live it. Not A mish mashagent of missional mediocrity.

We focused on the words, Chaos, Creativity, Change,Compassion, Controversy and Christ (The Great Commission). Kudos go to RodCarey and his team for putting it all together so liberatingly. Compliments goto Don and Debi Bell for their empowering leadership… and for hosting us sograciously.

Below is copy of thecommitment card distributed in the final session:

Past Is Prologue!

2011-10-26T18:16:00.000-07:00

This post is originating from New Zealand. The following is now up on theSAVN.tv blog. This is where my energies are being channeled these days. Click on over and check it out.

TCSPEAK: PAST: Street Corner Evangelism. I believe it wasShakespeare who wrote, “Past is prologue.” The Salvation Army was conceived onthe street corner. One early writer characterized its sanctuary as a “Cathedralof the Open Air.” It has also been described, in part, as “The genius of TheSalvation Army.”

The panel on this “foundational” episode of TCSpeak explores this “genius”from personal experience and a historical perspective: Jim Knaggs, on thestreets of New York City. Bob Docter, on the corner of Hollywood and Vine. JoeNoland, on the streets of San Francisco.

This discussion is also prologue to Knaggs vision for SAVN.tv – a virtualCyberspace street corner for the 21st Century! Click on over to “About Us”and read the two posts, “Under Construction” and “Mission/Vision” for furtherclarity on the “past” and “future” part.

BACK2ONE: Ararat Action News! (Satirical, light-hearted, designed toreach a specific audience). In film-speak, “Back to one” is the verbal cue forperformers to return to the mark where they started the scene. In this respect,past is also prologue. “In the beginning God created…” In order to go forward,we must go back to the beginning to the One who created us. The final “wrap”will occur upon Christ’s return.

In this sense, “Back2One,” the SAVN comedy ensemble, is always going backto the beginning in its sketches. “I am alpha and omega, the beginning and theend.” Or another way of putting it – “Back to the future.” The featured AraratAction News sketch is no exception. The ensemble takes you back to the timeof Noah, humorously, in order to parody a present and future spiritual truth:

And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to cometo him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerelyseek him. It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family fromthe flood (Hebrews 11:6,7).

Past is prologue!

A couple of further observations: 1) SAVN.tv is still in its experimentalstages as new content is being produced. We’re learning and innovating as wego. 2) The SAVN team is not yet complete, but we’re getting there. 3) SocialMedia Chaplains will be part of that team. We are not ready to launch far and wide,via social media, until all is in place, but feel free to share with your circle of friends and encourage them to, in turn, to begin widening the circle. 4) The “launch” will occur in three phases. Watch the blogcorner for more on this unveiling. 5) The best is yet to come! 6) With regardto the BACK2ONE SAVN.tv ComedyEnsemble mentioned above, it’s purposely designed to be a bit edgy, and werealize that some of the saints will have difficulty with presentation and content. But it’s not meant for the saints; it’s meant to reach a specificaudience loitering out there on those virtual street corners. 7) Swallow hard and praythat God, The Holy Spirit, will take His Gospel Message virile!

“Allthings, all persons, all means, save some” (1 Cor. 9:22).

Relevant, Radical Mission in the Hood!

2011-10-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

O.K. Let's try this again. The below taken from the Lescano's Divisional Newsletter, "Communicare." This is good stuff, relevant, radical mission - making my favorite Scripture portion come alive in the 21st Century. I'm hoping and praying that this becomes a template for others to apply, with the name of the street or section changing, of course - Let's take it viral! Catherine Booth would be proud.

ALTASTREET INVASION

Another innovative evangelistic outreach is beingconducted by the Redlands (California) Corps. Named the “Alta Street Invasion”for the particular street near the corps that they are first concentrating on,this outreach is a four-phase program involving soldiers and officers in anintentional and systematic evangelistic effort.

Here are the steps as outlined by C.O. CaptainPatrick Lyons:

Four Steps to Evangelical Relevancy

I. Invade (Community Presence in Uniform)

a. Monthly Visitation

i. Get Names, Addresses, Birthdays, and Anniversaries.

ii. Develop relationships and friendships.

iii. Have monthly men’s and women’s breakfasts, Children’s Clubs.Etc.

b. Street Evangelism and Prayer Walks

c. Perceive Needs

II. Invest (Serve Helpfully/Meet human needs in His Name)

a. Birthday Cards/Anniversary Cards

b. Monthly Children’s Birthday Parties

c. Be answers to prayer. If someone needs help withhousework, household help, accountability, yard work, getting to the doctor,clothes, food, we do everything we can.

d. Street Evangelism/Prayer Walks

III. Instruct

a. Sunday Afternoon Sunday School

b. Weekly Neighborhood Bible Study

c. Street Evangelism/Prayer Walks

d. Neighborhood Worship Simultaneous with Corps HolinessMeeting

e. Neighborhood VBS

IV. Integrate/Infuse

a. Identify those ready for spiritual commitment

b. Invite to Discipling Programs (HL, MC, Tutoring, Scouting,YPL, etc.)

c. Bus/Van Ministries

d. Integrate Community Believers in prayer Walks/StreetEvangelism

i. Train them to assist in the next invasion.

Prayfor the efforts of the Redlands Corps as well as that of all our corps as theyreach out with the love of God and Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Scriptureof the Week

Eventhough I am free of the demands and expectations of everyone, I havevoluntarily become a servant to any and all in order to reach a wide range ofpeople: religious, nonreligious, meticulous moralists, loose-livingimmoralists, the defeated, the demoralized—whoever. I didn't take on their wayof life. I kept my bearings in Christ—but I entered their world and tried toexperience things from their point of view. I've become just about every sortof servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life.I did all this because of the Message. I didn't just want to talk about it; Iwanted to be in on it! 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 TM)

God Bless!

Lee& Michelle Lescano

A Virtual Street Corner!

2011-09-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

Commissioner Jim Knaggs, ala Steve Jobs, launching
Phase 1 of SAVN.TV during Welcome of Cadets

All of my creative energy and blogging is going into SAVN.tvthese days. So click on over to see what’s “UNDER CREATION!” We’re very much“In the Beginning…” stages, experimenting, testing (trial and error) and pioneeringa new thing. The website is temporary, as we explore various options fraughtwith technical challenges and nuances, I would have never imagined (Wait untilyou see the final one!). Richard Brown, our technical guru, is shepherding usthrough the process. If we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it right. Andthat takes time and mucho research. And there will be some flops along the way.So, get thee behind us naysayers! Risk and failure are necessary aspects of thecreative process, YES! It’s part of the fun and journey, but still a littlescary, kind of like a roller coaster ride.

In the meantime, unique and innovative shows are beingwritten and produced under the creative direction of Guy Noland, and they willbe rolled out slowly, picking up steam as the momentum gathers. We’re launchingSAVN.tv in three phases, this being the first. Check COMING ATTRACTIONS regularlyto see what the future holds. And I will be commenting with the blog, addingsome color along the journey. Think about it, Oprah Winfrey started her OWN network with a $300 Million slush fund, and she’s still facing seriousobstacles. Ah, but we have a higher power, without limits, on our side, don’twe? For more, check out the ABOUT US, UNDER CREATION page. Prayer partners welcomed.

Guy Noland giving direction

RED, YELLOW, BLUE CARPET EVENT: We decided to try somethingnew and different in conjunction with the Welcome of Cadets (See furtherdescription in the SAVN Blog). It was pretty good, perfectionists that we are,but we learned a lot and the next one will be even better. Check it out on theopening page and then pass it on to your circle of social networking friends.

Salvation Way!

STREET CORNER THEME: The theme choice is obvious,remembering from whence we came and our uniqueness within the Body of Christ.This will also develop, graphically, as we go. For more, check out the ABOUT USMission/Vision page – SALVATION WAY. Also previously screened shows can befound under their respective street corners in that drop-down link. Under ARMY CENTRAL - TCSPEAK you will find the previously aired 9/11 Round Table with theTerritorial Commander and the Documentary Film, “UNSUNG!”

New shows will bepremiered weekly and continue to multiply as momentum builds - as the spirit quickeneth - gives (it) life (John 6:33).

PROMOS: These are being designed to download and share. Alsolook for GODSHOTS coming. Be patient with us, as this is a creative work inprogress. Follow the SAVN Blog for further progress reports. Do me a favor and pass this Blog link on to your Social Networking circle. Thanks.

WWW.SAVN.TV

A Virtual Street Corner

THE WORLD FOR CHRIST!

In the beginning... God created SAVN.tv.

The 9/11 Cross!

2011-09-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

THE 9/11 CROSS

Doris Noland

Within the fierybowels of hell itself

They found the metalcross,

Marred by flames andtwisted sore

Surrounded by debrisand dust.

The filtered sunraysthrough the smoke

Illuminate itssurface,

And tired eyes andtear stained faces

Turned and looked inwonder.

“A Cross!” thewhispered words were said,

Repeated like anecho,

The weary, sweatsoaked Heroes knelt

Within the holychamber.

The Cross! Godunderstood their grief

He understood theiranger!

God understood thesavagery

The horror and thepain!

And calmed by thisassurance

They renewed theirsearch again.

The years have passed,the Cross remains.

It’s jagged beautystanding

Reminding all thepassers by

Of those dark timeswhen God seemed… far away.

Yet, hidden in ourdarkest hours

His Cross remainstoday.

***********************

“Down beneath theshame or loss

Sinks the plummet ofthe cross

Never yet abyss wasfound

Deeper than His lovecan sound.”

Lloyd John Ogilvie

I am reminded today, ten years later, that in the midst ofgreat tragedy, Divine always triumphs. To help us remember, following 9/11, Icommissioned the making of a documentary film titled, “Unsung,” narrated byRichard Dreyfus who freely gave of his time and talent.

It can be viewed at www.savn.tv. Also a Service ofRemembrance will be live streamed at 2:00 p.m. (PST) on 9/11/11. The Servicecan also be accessed On Demand following the live-stream should you not be ableto attend.

Under Creation!

2011-09-07T11:27:00.000-07:00

I’ve been sopreoccupied with getting the beginning phase of SAVN.TV (Salvation Army VisionNetwork) launched (as part of the creative team with son, Guy, at the helm), that I’ve sorely neglectedthis blog. The initial phase will be launched the weekend of 9/11 on www.savn.tv with a live-streamed Red, Yellow,Blue Carpet Event starting on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. (PST). On Sunday, 9/11, AService of Remembrance will be live-streamed from the Long Beach Temple Corps.

The network will be launched in phases, “completely mobile,fluid, renascent, bubbling, creative, inventive, adventurous, and imaginative.”This initial offering is a sampling of what is yet to come, a very flexible andadaptive work in progress. It is “In the beginning…” – under creation – andwill expand as “the spirit quickeneth – gives (it) life” (John 6:63).

Come grow (the Kingdom) with us!

As many of you know, our son, Rob, is also involved in a “completely mobile, fluid, renascent, bubbling,creative, inventive, adventurous, and imaginative” ministry, Revolution Hawaii(www.revolutionhawaii.com). Onhis Facebook page today was the following report:

“Prayer walked Waianaetoday and the van got broken into but missed the purses and iPods. All theytook were 2 bags that only had Bibles in them. Travis Yardly said they took themost valuable things in the van.”

Waianae is a prettyrough area on the island of Oahu. For you preachers reading this, strugglingfor relevant sermon illustrations, this is one for you.

The new team, eight innumber, is also “In the beginning…” – under creation – and will expandas “the spirit quickeneth – gives (it) life” (John 6:63).

On Sunday evening, the team, along with 53 members of the UpperRoom congregation ventured into Chinatown, ministering to the homeless. Above is a photo taken that evening. Don’t see this much anymore. 53! Acontemporary, hands on Open-air ministry!

A live and virtual street corner ministry. Combined - All Powerful! Doesn’t get any better than this.

Come grow (the Kingdom) with us!

JN-

The Big Cross!

2011-08-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Little Cross

In 1948, as a first time camper at The Salvation Army’s Mt. Crags Camp in the Malibu Mountains, I got my first glimpse of The Big Cross. Do the math – 63 years ago. Actually there were and still are two crosses, including The Little Cross sitting on top of a lesser peak on the opposite side of the camp (see photo - note that the crosses have been there much longer than the 40 years noted in the attached article).

From the very beginning, like the Siren Song, the Big Cross was pulling me magnetically toward it. It was such a treacherous and demanding 1600’ almost straight up climb, that only older campers were allowed to make the weekly trek. I longed for that day, yet two years away.

I remember the first climb very vividly. Up before dawn and reaching the rocky incline as daylight was breaking. Looking up that steep, perilous, craggy slope, my knees were shaking and my mouth was dry. Upward we ventured under the watchful and experienced eyes of our camp staff guides, one in front and the other in the rear. It turned out to be more strenuous than I had imagined as fatigue began to set in. There were times when I didn’t think I was going to make it.

Up through a cloud cover we climbed until finally reaching the bottom of the steep crag formation upon which the cross was sitting. It is the highest of crags surrounding the camp, thus the genesis of its name, Mt. Crags Camp. We inched our way up precariously, ultimately reaching the pinnacle at last.

It felt like we were on top of the world, a sea of clouds beneath us as far as the eye could see, the sun beginning to rise from the east, casting its glow upon the cloud formations and bouncing off the cross. It was an intense spiritual moment for me, so much so, that several years later as a member of the camp staff I volunteered to lead the hike weekly. I cannot tell you how many times I've scaled that peak, but I do remember the last one just as intensely as the first, perhaps more so. Here’s why.

It was during my last week as a staff member during an Easter camp for kids. I was now a Senior Counselor and Bob Docter of Hollywood and Pasadena Tab fame was the Program Director for that week. I was assigned the older kids, tough, undisciplined direct from the inner city ghettos of Los Angeles. They picked on the younger kids and when I attempted to discipline them was threatened to the point of my inability to sleep at night. Even though I was older, they were bigger and very street wise. Fear gripped me that week like never before, resulting in lethargy thus affecting my ability to function properly. Docter interpreted this as laziness.

His antidote for this perceived laziness, and as a form of discipline, was to send me up to paint The Big Cross. Trekking up that mountain hands free was a challenge in itself. Hauling along paint buckets, brushes and a ladder made it even more harshly challenging. On that Good Friday morning we persevered and painted the cross. Immediately the fear was gone. It was another intense spiritual moment as I gazed upon that freshly whitewashed cross. And I must confess, here and now, feeling just a wee pang of spiritual pride in this act of contrition.

Those memories came flooding back last week when I read that someone, in the middle of the night, climbed that mountain and cut down the cross, this 56-years after that painting. I don’t know what possessed this ill begotten act of vandalism, but the resulting publicity has been a Godsend. The following link is but one sampling.

http://www.theacorn.com/news/2011-08-11/Community/Destroyed_Salvation_Army_cross_is_replaced.html

“Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23 NKJV).

“What appears to be human tragedy is often the seed of divine triumph” – David Casland.

The Present Future!

2011-07-18T12:31:00.000-07:00

I feel led to comment on the events of yesterday, July 17, 2011, my 74^th birthday. In Hawaii, up at 6:00 a.m., devotions on our lanai (my view pictured on your left).

Watched first half of the World Soccer Match, U.S.A and Japan. Left for the Kauluwela Corps, score tied 1-1.

After church, lunch at Ward Center with Doris, Denise and five grandchildren, McKenna, Riley, Shea, Parker and Hayden: Orange chicken, noodles and sticky rice. Yum! Rob out at Waianae conducting beach service and not able to join us.

Back to the condo for a swim in those exact waters pictured above, followed by a rerun of the last half of that game, only to watch U.S.A lose on penalty shots, an exciting game, though.

Ran over my notes for the evening preach – theme “Aggressive Forgiveness.” Left at 5:30 p.m. for The Upper Room, service commencing at 6:00 p.m. to discover that two of us were celebrating our birthdays, mine and an Upper Room convert who lives under a bridge adjacent to Chinatown.

Preach over, we head downstairs for Birthday Blast and food preparation for the homeless in Chinatown. My homeless birthday mate makes a wish and blows out the candles on the cake – pizza and cake, doesn’t get any better than that.

8:00 p.m. Upper Room Team heads out to Chinatown where they minister to a burgeoning homeless population: Food, first-aid, foot washing, counseling or whatever the need, no task too menial. There have been miraculous outcomes: families reunited, spiritual healings and “Getting other people saved,” including my homeless, under the bridge dwelling birthday mate who has been attending Upper Room for over a year now.

On a typical Sunday, Rob leaves at 8:00 a.m. in the morning and returns home sometimes at midnight, most of the ministry conducted outside institutional walls. Catherine Booth would be proud because it’s called “Going to where the people are to be got at!” And this isn’t part of his job description; it’s his calling and passion.

Reggie McNeil nails it perfectly in his book The Present Future: “This is what it’s going to take to get a hearing for the gospel in the 21^st Century—the smell of cleaning solution, dirty faces, obvious acts of servanthood…” Sound familiar? The past translated into the present future.

On the way home, I stopped at Zippys and bought an apple pie sweetened with Equal. It wasn’t fresh peach pie, but oh did it taste good, warmed with a glob of vanilla ice cream melting down the side, trade wind breezes blowing with now a nighttime view of that scene above.

Before going to bed, checked the Braves box score and found that Freddie Freeman had driven in the winning run with a walk off hit, first of his career.

Yes, it was a very good day, can’t wait for the next one, #75! That’ll come soon enough. For now we’ll be content to focus on the present future.

Today I Will Make A Difference!

2011-07-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

On the Anvil is a dog-eared, well read book that graces my library. Many years ago I copied the following chapter and framed it on my office wall. And every morning I read it to open my devotional time. Somewhere along the way that practice was discontinued, I don’t know why. A Facebook friend today, reminded me of it. Not only do I share it with you, but also it will once again begin to preface my devotional time every morning.

"Today I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is the product of his thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. Therefore, I will have thoughts that are happy and hopeful. I refuse to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let petty inconveniences such as stoplights, long lines, and traffic jams be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark. Today I will make a difference."

"I will be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference."

"I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It’s OK to stumble… . I will get up. It’s OK to fail… . I will rise again. Today I will make a difference."

"I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family. A man can own the world but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today I will spend at least five minutes with the significant people in my world. Five quality minutes of talking or hugging or thanking or listening. Five undiluted minutes with my mate, children, and friends."

"Today I will make a difference."

From Shaped by God (original title: On the Anvil)
Copyright (Tyndale House, 1985, 2002) Max Lucado

JN

ONE FOR ALL: The Perfect Hat Trick!

2011-07-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Visionaries are few and far between, a rarity within and without The Salvation Army. It’s one thing to be blessed with a vision, another to be able to articulate it clearly, and then quite another to pull it off victoriously. Commissioner Jim Knaggs and Major Stephen Court are two of these rarities, their coordinated vision combined eloquently and persuasively in a newly released 3-book volume titled, One For All.

One Day, One Thing and One Army can be summed up as the “perfect hat trick,” its underlying premise being that we are competing in the game of life for the souls of mankind.

Hat Trick: “The achievement of a positive feat three times during competition.”

Perfect Hat Trick: “When a player scores one goal with their right foot, one with their left foot and one goal with a header.”

In the Foundational Book (Feat), One Day, the initial set of visionary goals is scored from the right, with the help of world-class teammates selected globally, the vision broken down into 35 parts from “Salvo Stores as Saving Stations” to “The Gospel for Everyone.”

In their Foreword, General Paul A. Rader (Ret.) and Commissioner Kay F. Rader write, “The ‘dream’ that gave birth to this stirring collection of essays was gifted to a battlefield commander, not an armchair strategist. Commissioner Jim Knaggs articulated a vision that first awakened the spiritual imagination of ‘salvos’ down under and now will be embraced by ‘sallies’ of the USA Western Territory and beyond. As this volume is shared we have no doubt that it will breathe fresh heart into Salvationists everywhere.”

Book (Feat) Two in this trilogy, One Thing, takes us to another level, combining those 35 interpreted visions into one universal goal. The authors express it this way: “We’re committed to fanning into flame these gifts of God. We want God to go deeper and wider on this and spin off regional visions and local visions, orchestrating a symphony of divine creativity in and through us… co-crafting with God to paint the colors of the dream on the canvas of the lives of billions of people. It all boils down to One Thing: ‘WW4J.’

General Eva Burrows (Rtd.) in her Foreword writes, “This books title alone—One Thing—suggests (indeed, not only suggests but proclaims in an emphatic manner) that there is a coherent, unassailable answer to todays pluralism. Instead of a personal legend, it represents a global mission, though universal in scope, is highly particular in its aim—One Thing: Win the World for Jesus – a score from the left.

Finally we come to the “header,” and who better to deliver it, introductorily for the perfect hat trick then the world leader of The Salvation Army, General Linda Bond. In the Foreword to Book (Feat) Three, One Army, she writes, “We are one; not separate entities or individual expressions, but one. And it is the whole mission that unites us… We are united by covenant, regardless of the specific front on which we fight.”

I was particularly drawn to Chapter 3, “Diverse unity,” its sections labeled as follows: “Unity in diversity; Different ways; Different tactics; Cultural windows; Cloistered or compromised; Tools, not rules; The new evangelism.” The Army’s strength is in its diversity, unified by a covenanted mission.

Disclaimer: The first edition, One Day, includes within its pages the following “Applause” penned by this author: “Brilliant! Encouraging you toward unique and creative thinking, so that ONE DAY… Bold! Challenging to break the boundaries so that ONE DAY… Blessed! The God-inspired vision of a leader whose ONE DAY has come. May it spread throughout the world.”

It also includes a chapter from this writer titled, “New Things – …that our systems would be less restrictive and more imaginative in order to accommodate the new things God wants to do among us.” The authors took a big risk in asking me to write this chapter.

Whilst these personal offerings might conceivably reflect a bias in this review, it is for the reader to decide after a careful reading of One for All in its entirety. Anyone witnessing the perfect hat trick, no matter what team they are rooting for, is thrilled to behold it because of its beauty and rarity. This inspired trilogy is no different.

Available on Amazon, here:http://t.co/elwy531 via @amazon

This is Church!

2011-06-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Good stuff! Some have caught the vision; many have not. Bless those who have.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wgg2KYdMpqc

JN

Can He Do It?

2011-06-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

The National Commander (Commissioner Izzy Gaither) was brilliant as usual (he served as my CS for a short period of time). I was encouraged to hear him repeatedly use the phrase, “release and empower,” during the duration of his challenge. I know he meant it, but here is the 64 million dollar (inflation) question, CAN HE DO IT? “Release and Empower!” It is easy to say, but very difficult to do, believe me.

For full context click on the following link:

http://therubicon.org/category/therubi-blog/

Core Values!

2011-06-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

These pages have been silent lately. That’s because I have been so engrossed in a mammoth creative project that there has been no creativity left over; the kind of creativity that these pages demand. Whilst researching for this project, I happened on the 12 core values of National Community Church, which are so apropos and relevant to what I am now preoccupied with (details forthcoming over the summer months).

I first posted these core values back in 2007 and I believe it’s time for a reposting. Take a moment and evaluate your ministry’s core values in light of these.

“NCC's twelve core values are part of the DNA of National Community Church. They are both descriptive and prescriptive of who we are as a church.”

• Expect the unexpected

• Irrelevance is irreverence

• Love people when they least expect it and least deserve it

• Playing it safe is risky

• Pray like it depends on God and work like it depends on you

• Everyone is invaluable and irreplaceable

• Everything is an experiment

• You cannot out give God

• Maturity does not equal conformity

• Go the extra mile

• It's never too late to be who you might have been

• Do it right and do it big”

http://theaterchurch.com/

Now, I’d attend a church that practices (not just preaches) these core values! Wouldn't you?

The Gospel Blimp!

2011-04-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

This really dates me, but in 1967, two years into our first appointment, a corps plant, a film was released titled, “The Gospel Blimp.” It’s a satirical piece on evangelism and it became the “in” thing at officer councils for a few years. In fact, I began working it into my presentations.

Recently I found the following pdf of a comic strip taken from the film. It’s lengthy, but the message is just as relevant today some 44 years later. You really need to read the strip all the way through for its full impact. And when the “Commander” enters the picture…well, you’ll get the picture!

http://www.carpsplace.com/spire/Gospel%20Blimp.pdf

Enjoy.

A Continuing Metamorphosis!

2011-04-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Steve Court over at ArmyBarmy.com gives his take on the demise of ADC’s and one ATC. First, Doris had as much to the do with the decision for this change as I did, maybe even more so. And its genesis can be traced to General Paul and Commissioner Kay Rader.

It was the first step in what was hoped to be a continuing metamorphosis. And had time not run out there would have been a male ADC – this concept would have made the transition so much more palatable, culturally, for the male counterpart. And, Steve, it was meant to be more than shared leadership; it’s also meant to be shaped leadership. In other words, the leadership of either spouse, regardless of title and protocol, can be shaped according to his/her gifting and passion. If the wife is the gifted administrator or fundraiser, so be it. If his passion is for counseling and social work, so be it, no matter title or appointment. And it was working beautifully.

Finally, whatever the decision from on high, it really doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things. Keep on shaping it according to your gifting and passions – a continuing metamorphosis. And if officers continue to model shaped leadership, who knows? Not only will the Army continue to be strengthened, but those sitting on the throne (a Gowanism), will eventually get it and see the light. In other words, isn’t this just another blip in the grand scheme of things?

I’m Not Going There!

2011-04-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

I just watched an inspirational program on 60 Minutes that every officer/soldier leader should watch (found here in two parts), and then begin to emulate in their communities. I don’t mean exactly; I mean in spirit. But it can’t take the shape of a brass band or… I'm not going there! It has to be culturally relevant and meet a deep, spiritual need. It will require some thinking and dreaming outside the lines. They have to be reached right where they live, in the here and now. Forget trying to resurrect Corps Cadets or… I'm not going there! Watch this program. Let it inspire you. Turn the Holy Spirit loose, creatively! It has inspired me to keep on dreaming and do something spectacular, even in these retiring years. Wait! Don’t move on to the next status update or post. Stop! Take 20 minutes and watch these two inspiring segments now!

Gospel for Teens:

Part 1: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7361574n

Part 2: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7361570n

PLEASE!

JAC – Music To My Ears!

2011-04-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

General Paul A Rader (Ret) is featured over at JAC (Journal of Aggressive Christianity) with a submission titled, “Reaching for Metaphors of Grace.” It’s a great read and foundational to my own submission, which follows his: “Change My Heart – Personal Reflections on ‘Deep Change’: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC.html.

Rader writes, in part, “Preaching to students during the six years of my presidency at a Christian college, I have worked at trying to make this truth (Scriptural holiness) accessible and compelling to this generation of students – the millennials.” In order to do this, he continues, “I am still searching for more adequate metaphors to relate this truth to our time.”

Three of the metaphors he relates are: The “Shorter Way, Middle Way and Longer Way.” These “Ways” resonate with me and offer a menu of “Ways” to fit differing personality types and differing cultural upbringings. I’ve written before how I’ve struggled with Brengle’s “Shorter Way” and then, with a rush of relief, discovered and connected with Coutts “Longer Way.” In other words, when it comes to holiness, “One size doesn’t fit all.” It's the “crisis” size that fits all.

Thank you General Rader for this inspired insight; it’s music to this beginning Septuagenarian’s ears.

A Poet; Not A Theologian!

2011-03-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Relax everybody. Perhaps “Universalist” was a poor choice of words and should have been spelled with a low case “u.” And it probably should have been posted over at my tongue-in-cheek “Slightly Irreverent” blog anyway – with a little more satire thrown in for good measure. I was hurried when writing it and obviously erred on the side of brevity. My main beef is with this whole matter of orthodoxy and the finite, “analytical” interpretations thereof. I like the way R.K. Chesterton puts it in the opening of his book, Orthodoxy:

“Poe, for instance, really was morbid; not because he was poetical, but because he was specially analytical. Even chess was too poetical for him; he disliked chess because it was full of knights and castles, like a poem. He avowedly preferred the black discs of draughts, because they were more like the mere black dots on a diagram. Perhaps the strongest case of all is this: that only one great English poet went mad, Cowper. And he was definitely driven mad by logic, by the ugly and alien logic of predestination. Poetry was not the disease, but the medicine; poetry partly kept him in health. He could sometimes forget the red and thirsty hell to which his hideous necessitarianism dragged him among the wide waters and the white flat lilies of the Ouse. He was damned by John Calvin; he was almost saved by John Gilpin. Everywhere we see that men do not go mad by dreaming. Critics are much madder than poets. Homer is complete and calm enough; it is his critics who tear him into extravagant tatters. Shakespeare is quite himself; it is only some of his critics who have discovered that he was somebody else. And though St. John the Evangelist saw many strange monsters in his vision, he saw no creature so wild as one of his own commentators. The general fact is simple. Poetry is sane because it floats easily in an infinite sea; reason seeks to cross the infinite sea, and so make it finite. The result is mental exhaustion, like the physical exhaustion of Mr. Holbein. To accept everything is an exercise, to understand everything a strain. The poet only desires exaltation and expansion, a world to stretch himself in. The poet only asks to get his head into the heavens. It is the logician who seeks to get the heavens into his head. And it is his head that splits.”

Do I believe there is a hell? Yes! The Scriptures are quite clear on this. Can I presume to know what hell will actually look like or where the line is infinitely drawn on who it’s inhabitants will or will not be? No! The Scriptures are not clear on this, except for the orthodoxy of our interpretations. “…reason seeks to cross the infinite sea, and so make it finite…to understand everything a strain…seeks to get the heavens into his head. And it is his head that splits.”

One thing I do know, unequivocally. Love reigns! This is what compels me to preach the Gospel, so that Love will reign universally. I’ll let God be the judge of who fits how and where into that eternal universe. And I do so with the sure and certain knowledge that Love will always prevail.

Here’s how another poet puts it:

“Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love” – 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 NKJ.

For the time being, I’ll remain a poet, not a theologian, thank you!

Note: I expand upon this universal love idea thoroughly in my book, Lean Right, Love Left: Balancing the Body - http://www.joenoland.com/joenoland/Creations.html

The Pearly Gate Debate!

2011-03-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

Rob Noland put me on to Rob Bell’s new book, “Love Wins.” I haven’t read it yet, but the following “Musings” by the President of Fuller Theological Seminary resonate with me fully: http://www.netbloghost.com/mouw/?p=188.

When it comes to the theology of hell, I’ve been a closet Universalist all of these years. And if I were as successful and independent as Rob Bell, I might have come out long ago. I’m not a theologian by any stretch of the imagination, so I will leave the theology part for debate until after the Second Coming. I suspect, though, that when the Pearly Gates are opened, there will be a lot of surprised people…on either side of the gate.

Surprise in Heaven

Anonymous

I dreamt death came the other night

And Heaven’s gate swung wide.

An angel with a halo bright

Ushered me inside.

And there! To my astonishment 

Stood folks I’d judged and labeled 

As “quite unfit”, “of little worth,” 

And “spiritually disabled.” 

Indignant words rose to my lips 

But never were set free, 

For every face showed stunned surprise -- 

Not one expected me! 

Critics Beware!

2011-03-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

I haven’t been posting much lately because all of my creative energy is going into several projects soon to be unveiled (Critics beware!). Relevant Magazine has an article too good to pass up, however: 10 Creativity Tips From Donald Miller:

http://www.relevantmagazine.com/life/whole-life/features/24941-10-tips-from-donald-miller-on-creativity?start=1

The following tip particularly caught my attention for the obvious reasons:

How a Creator Handles Critics

Many would-be creators remain consumers because they fear criticism. Perhaps they created something, thinking they’d be encouraged for their work, and they were, but then they read something or heard something critical and felt they were being treated unfairly and were scared back into consumer-mode, sitting on the sidelines.

All creators get criticized. There are many people who cannot create, but wanting glory, they will use creators and their criticisms of creators to get into the spotlight. I’m not talking about helpful criticism, teacher to student criticism, I’m talking about the modern fare of criticism floating around on the Internet, which is the equivalent of a junior high slam book.

This is going to bother you at first, but you must move through it to a higher evolution of the creative life if you are going to become a great creator.

The Christian Ghetto!

2011-02-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

Charles Roberts has a great blog going: http://openingsalvocr.blogspot.com

I don’t know if he coined the term, “Christian Ghetto” or not, but it really resonates, especially with this emerging generation. No need for me to expound on this subject, as he does so very nicely in his “Incarnational” series.

His February 10 post, “Cross My Fence, Cross My Street, Change My World” is a must read for young, aspiring, inspiring, Salvation Army leaders (in context to his other posts in the series). In part, he writes:

“In grappling with The Four Immersions (New Culture, New Community, God, Tension) I am forcing myself out of the Christian ghetto. By 2020, only about 10% of Americans will be comfortable in the traditional church setting. 90%, therefore will want something different when it comes to faith. Authentic. Relevant. Accessible.”

I wonder, is TSA authentic, relevant, and accessible to the 90%? Dare I even suggest the possibility of “A Salvation Army Ghetto” existing out there? How about giving CR a day to address this subject with The Commissioner’s Conference? Or at TEC’s across the country. No need for outside church growth gurus telling us how to do it, me thinks.

Officership is Sexy!

2011-02-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

My take on this over at:
http://slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com/2011/02/officership-is-sexy.html

A Future General?

2011-01-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

As the sun is setting in London this evening, HC members awaiting a vote on the General tomorrow, the sun is rising in Honolulu, Hawaii where 3 keiki (children) are awaiting a dedication ceremony at The Rock, a Salvation Army ministry on the beach at Pokai Bay.

Our son, Rob, will be conducting the ceremony calling each child by name: Solomon Shy Koakonapiliahi Pu'uwaihaokila Makanalani Kelikoa'elaka'uaikekai Niau-Pule, Kekai Kekeikimanaloamaikalani Niau and Chanari Jayne Kamakanaonalani Passion Cortez-Hoapili.

Kind of puts everything into perspective, doesn’t it? Somewhere, a future General is being born, dedicated or sworn in. Think about it, General Solomon Shy Koakonapiliahi Pu'uwaihaokila Makanalani Kelikoa'elaka'uaikekai Niau-Pule.

Our twin grandsons, Parker Tai Kuanalu

and Hayden Sheridan Kaopo’i Noland, being dedicated at The Rock several years ago. A future General with an identical twin brother? Could have some fun with that!

A High Council Retrospective: Day Eleven!

2011-01-29T10:57:00.000-08:00

The balloting begins at precisely 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 1999. The first three ballots require 51 votes or a two-thirds majority. The final ballot requires 38 votes or a simple majority.

The count is completed at 10:28 a.m. The person with the least number of votes on the first ballot is automatically eliminated; in this instance Gaither and Clifton choosing to have their names withdrawn, leaving Larsson, Gowans and Maxwell on the next ballot (As a bit of a teaser, I’ll save the actual voting results on each ballot for the book forthcoming). With Gaither eliminated I must now reconsider my choice (This too will be left for the book).

The second ballot commences at 11:00 a.m., and the result announced at 11:35 a.m. Larsson is eliminated, leaving Gowans and Maxwell to continue on.

The third ballot begins at 11:53 a.m., with the result announced at 12:25 p.m. A two-thirds majority does not prevail leading to the final ballot, when only a simple majority is required.

The fourth ballot commences at 12:44 p.m. And this is where my book begins.

1. The Penultimate Chapter

We’re in London, England to elect the next General of The Salvation Army: Sunbury Court, Day 11. The ballot box stands High Council Chamber center, its membership seated around it. For the fourth time I walk forward silently, placing a prayerfully marked ballot in the box, having not varied my selection since the second round of voting. The process, slow and deliberate, goes well into the second hour; the silence is deafening.

Finally, the last ballot is cast. Quietly, the Tellers remove the box from its stand and proceed to the room designated for this final counting, final because on the fourth ballot a simple majority decides the election, whereas on the first three a two-thirds majority is required, which obviously had not been achieved.

I glance over at Doris and she at me, knowingly, because of our conversation preceding the ballot. It is a for-gone conclusion in our minds that little will change from the previous count, the majority vote getter carrying that margin on into the final ballot. It was between the same two candidates: no speeches, no discussion, little intermingling with one another in between ballots. Who would change their minds? Even before the result is announced, we know instinctively whom the next General will be.

Eventually the chamber door opens, waking us out of our reverie, and in walks the Chief Teller with a final tally. My eyes flit between the two nominees and the High Council President who now holds the result in his hand. Every eye is focused on that hallowed slip of paper, as it is unfolded.

Suspense, intrigue, anticipation! The feel is slow motion, as the President’s eyes meet ours and his lips begin to move. “My fellow members of the High Council, the result of our vote (pause), 37 to 37.”

Unbelievable! A virtual dead heat. What now?

Note: What happened next will fill the pages of the books final chapter. A tie on the 4^th ballot has never occurred before in HC history. The Orders of Procedures indicate, that if a result is not achieved on the final ballot, the nominating process must begin afresh. But, then again, every HC can always change any particular procedure, if so inclined. Hope you enjoyed this eleven-day glimpse into the inner workings of one particular HC. Each will have its own unique story to tell, including the one now in progress.

Disclaimer: Please understand that these glimpses are seen through my eyes only. Others might have perceived and recorded them a little differently, depending upon their own POV.

A High Council Retrospective: Day Nine/Ten!

2011-01-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

Before getting into days nine and ten, let me share a few thoughts on yesterdays 2011 HC result. There were 10 nominations; the most ever so it has been reported. To keep this in perspective, it must be remembered that this is also the largest HC ever. With 109 nominators, there are bound to be more nominees (8 in the 1999 HC, with only 74 members).

It has also been reported “unprecedented” that the President, VP and Chaplain step down in order to accept a nomination bid. I believe this might have something to do with the advanced age of nominees, for it is the more senior members of the HC who are generally elected to these positions, those who would not normally be nominated because of their age. Perhaps the recent rash of extensions has something to do with it.

As I understand it, two of the three, if elected, would only be able to serve as General for one and two years, respectively. That is, unless the legalities are changed, and this is a very complex process. As it stands now the General serves for a 5-year term, or till age 68, whichever comes first. There is provision for some one-year extensions, but usually reserved for a younger General (To my knowledge only one ever previously extended). Maybe we’re looking at another HC a year from now.

Again I was struck with the predictability of nominations, all Commissioners, only one under the age of 60, a majority of others who will be between the ages of 64 – 67 shortly after taking office, should they be elected.

Here’s a first for you, Americans receiving a majority of the nominations, 4 out of 10. As it is, with Knaggs declining (He would have been a very credible nominee had he chosen to stand), it’s now 3 Americans, 3 Canadians and 3 Europeans, nicely balanced for a change, don’t you think? Still it’s going to be tough for an American to be elected, as history has already shown. If there was ever a year, however, this could be it. But then I’m not holding my breath. You’ll have to await my book for the rationale on reasons why. I’d be interested in your thoughts, however.

Finally, it’s going to be “The Long Wait,” as nine nomination speeches, along with answers to questions (16 including the spouses) will be very time consuming. And with this number of nominees it’s more likely to go the full four ballots. With 109 members voting individually, it will assuredly take several hours for each ballot, along with the time it takes to tally votes. I suspect we’re looking at Monday for a final result.

I’ll not digress further except for two things: First, a few younger members nominated would have made for better balance and prepared the way for future HC’s. Second, for perspective, read the thoughts in my previous posts and judge the results of this HC by comparison.

Day Nine:

This was a day of preparation. There were organized prayer meetings in the morning and afternoon with a time of sharing in the evening. The candidates were not present as they were hidden away preparing their speeches and answers to questions. In the down time, Doris and I took a skip through the Walled Gardens, which are down the road a ways from Sunbury Court.

Day Ten:

The spouses have arrived without too much delay. Hallelujah! The day begins with the nomination speeches and questioning of candidates, going on into the evening hours (This with 5 candidates and their spouses, think of 16 with this HC – to consume all of Friday and Saturday, I suspect). John Larsson answered a question put to him regarding the problematic UK investment situation, and did so quite admirably, I might add. In fact, all candidates presented themselves very well.

I will first vote for Israel Gaither. If eliminated it will then be either Gowans or Maxwell, still struggling and praying about this one. I do so anticipating that John Larsson will be selected Chief of the Staff, as I think this position truly represents his giftedness and is where he would be most beneficial (taken verbatim from my notes penned at the time).

Only time will tell. Tomorrow we vote!

A High Council Retrospective: Day Eight!

2011-01-26T10:01:00.000-08:00

(My apologies for the roughness of these notes, but time does not permit a more creative rendering)

Eight days now feel like eight months, but we’re almost there, I hope. The commute from hotel to Sunbury Court has become a familiar one, our uniforms in the beginning stages of petrification. Weariness is setting in, including the longing for home, even with all of the many challenges that await us there. Oh, for my own bed and pillow! Ah, home sweet home.

Summer is approaching for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, furloughs beckoning; it’s off to Hawaii for us, to become acquainted with our nine-month old granddaughter. Interestingly enough, when we left Australia there were those who said, “Now you’ll be closer to family.” In reality, Sydney is closer to Honolulu than New York.

The first order of business is for nominees to stand and declare their intentions. Davis, Edwards and Watson decline for various reasons. The number of nominations received may or may not have impacted their decision. Clifton, Gaither, Gowans, Larsson and Maxwell choose to stand.

We don’t know how many nominations each received, as that number is clothed in secrecy. The name imprinted on my ballot was… Colonel Israel Gaither, and placed there for several reasons. First, I felt him to be highly qualified – “We appoint, God anoints” or “God elects, we select,” either way, doesn’t matter, whomever, he will be God’s person to lead the army. Second, I felt it essential to match my talk with my walk (to the ballot box). Third, even though a long shot, I believe this nomination will send a significant message. And I breathe a sigh of relief when he agrees to stand.

This proved to be an historical moment, two younger Colonels nominated and standing. There had only been one Colonel ever nominated before in the history of the HC. This does create some logistical problems, however, as we must now await arrival of the wives before continuing – Eva Gaither traveling from South Africa and Helen Clifton from Pakistan (The wives of territorial commander Colonels not members of the HC). Note: That has been corrected with the latest directive enlarging the HC membership.

A motion was made and carried to release the names of those nominated, but not choosing to stand.

Further, it was requested that an additional question now be directed to Gaither: “Having served only in the USA until your present appointment and having been in your present command as a TC for only a few months, are you convinced that you have the background and experience to undertake the worldwide responsibilities of the General?”

We are now in recess, minimally for 24 hours, as this is the prescribed time given nominees for preparation purposes, their nomination speeches and answers to questions written out and read verbatim. The recess may be extended beyond that time depending upon how long it takes the wives to arrive.

That old 1954 movie, based upon a Mickey Spillane novel, “THE LONG WAIT,” starring Anthony Quinn and Charles Coburn immediately comes to mind. Alas, we settle in for “The Long Wait.”

(Assuming nominations have now occurred, this HC, too, is settling in for “The Long Wait.”)

A High Council Retrospective: Day Seven!

2011-01-25T10:32:00.000-08:00

Members of the Question’s Committee have their work cut out today. Why? Ninety questions have been submitted - 90! Do the math, depending upon the number of nominees, each answering every question thoughtfully. The committee has to pare down the questions whilst keeping those who submitted them happy. You can imagine the discussion that ensued. Kind of like a Corps Council I once chaired, but let’s not go there.

A recess was required until the committee completed its impossible task.

Fast work. After lunch, we reconvened and the committee presented its result. Not so fast. More discussion. More questions. More meandering. More squirming, until the president finally brought it to a conclusion, satisfied or not.

The nominations begin at precisely 2:50 p.m. on Tuesday, May 11, 1999. The mechanics of running a HC have obviously been in the forefront of our thinking. We know the analytical side of potential nominees, but still little about their vision and passions, making an informed nomination difficult. It is suggested that a time for this be considered in preparation for the next HC.

The ballot box sits in the center of the chamber oval. Each name is called according to protocol order. It is very quiet and solemn, no member moving simultaneously. At precisely 3:34 p.m., #74 places his nomination in the box.

We continue quietly and prayerfully as the tellers take the ballot-filled box into another room for tallying. At 4:00 p.m. they return, and the President announces the result in alphabetical order: Shaw Clifton, Douglas Davis, David Edwards, Israel Gaither, John Gowans, John Larsson, Earl Maxwell, Robert Watson.

The HC is adjourned for the day. This gives time for the President to meet with each nominee individually and share the number of nominations they received. That number is never revealed to other members of the HC. Each nominee will now prayerfully consider his decision on whether or not to stand for election, that decision to be announced on the following morning.

(To be continued)

A High Council Retrospective: Day Six!

2011-01-23T19:16:00.000-08:00

Today was a resumption of the “Committee of the Whole.” This takes us out of High Council mode, allowing for discussion on a whole range of matters that particularly concern us, without being bound by HC protocol. It was pretty freewheeling and, again, revealing - another spoke in the nominations discernment wheel.

In the interest of brevity, I’ve chosen to record only my contribution to the discussion process. It is condensed for the purposes of this post, but a sampling of the wide-ranging discussion that followed.

I push the button on the microphone and wait patiently for my turn in the rotation. In time, the President acknowledges #24 and I speak:

You have not heard from #24 much up until now, as I have preferred to let those with more analytical minds than mine sally forth. We now come to the issues that stir my passion, get the adrenaline flowing and make me want to get up in the morning.

I believe that there are significant issues of “deep change” in our movement that need be explored, aired and vented by this body, i.e., our structure, the appointment process, age of leadership, etc.; this, not only for our own benefit, but also for the benefit of those who will be nominated.

For example, I believe that the structure of The Salvation Army must undergo deep change and be brought into alignment with the 21^st century. We must move from a monolithic, hierarchical, 19^th Century type institutional structure to one that is more relational, flattened, fluid and user friendly.

I believe that there must be more consultation in the appointment process, and those appointments made in congruence with core values and performance, and not according to protocol (going through the chairs) or for expedience sake. This requires the moving of younger officers into leadership positions more quickly.

The lack of “youth” representation on this body (and in many others) is troubling for me, personally. 49 of the 75 members are approaching their 60^th year or older, including me. 21 are between 56 and 60. That totals 70 of the 75 members. There is no one under the age of 50. What can be done to bring younger officers into top leadership positions more quickly? (16 TC’s or Commissioners (26 persons) will retire by the end of the year 2000). What an indictment, but, conversely, what an opportunity! Think about it. We in this room do not represent the future!

We need to elect a General who is tuned into the next generation. DC’s and TC’s must also be tuned in, appointed younger and left in their appointments long enough to both cast and implement their vision. I was 61 when appointed to this territorial command (my first), and cannot effect deep change in a four-year period. Impossible! The General cannot effect “deep change” in a five-year period. Perhaps he or she should be elected at a younger age and given the option of being elected to a second four or five-year term. I don’t know!

But what I do know is that this kind of deep change is going to take holy boldness, including a whole lot of bravado on someone’s part. And I’m not naïve enough to believe it’s going to happen in my lifetime, but I’m also not going to let this unique opportunity pass without saying it out loud here and now. I know how some feel about a tic, cross and full stop, now let’s tackle some of the deeper, mission-based issues confronting our movement.

As an aside, this is the first time I have read these notes since that 1999 HC. And I really can’t believe I said what I said. What was I thinking? Then again, I remember John Gowans being the first to respond, affirming what I said in his own inimitable way. In fact, afterward, we had a little chitchat, he suggesting I continue to speak up on these matters – kindred spirits, huh? After all we are who we are, not who we pretend to be.

That field of potential nominees just narrowed considerably! Any hints on my nominee to be?

For a peak into the HC chambers click on the following link:

http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/www_sa.nsf/vw-dynamic-arrays/BACC3A2471E2F6D38025782000553E03?openDocument

A High Council Retrospective: Day Five!

2011-01-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

The fifth day happened to fall on a Sunday. I’m assuming yesterday/today/tomorrow (depending where you are on this planet) will follow a similar pattern for this 17^th High Council.

A worship service was held in the High Council chambers with Doris singing (By the way, her CD is available over at:

http://www.joenoland.com/joenoland/Creations.html

And Izzie Gaither preaching. Her solo was mesmerizing and Gaither’s message absolutely inspiring. He “rang the bell.” He has the makings of a present or future General (Exactly as written in my notes at the time). As an aside to these notes, Gaither was a mere Colonel, way down in the pecking order, so we do break with protocol every once in awhile. But his Generalship was not to be, my take on the reasons why, fodder for another blog when I can be a little more controversial. More on how he and others fared in this HC when I get to the nomination’s day. Now back to my notes.

London in May and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect (Again, unpredictable and another break in protocol). In the afternoon Doris and I jogged, skipped and walked along the river Thames. Yes, we skipped! Londoners were out in mass and you should have seen the double takes as we went skipping by, singing ‘Skip To My Lou, My Darling.” The “Fly’s in the Buttermilk” and “Cow’s in the Cornfield” verses brought smiles to a few dour faces. Unfortunately, we didn’t bring our “Skip A Heart Bypass” sweatshirts with us, nor did I have my baseball cap with the inscription, “Why Be Normal,” on it. Two Commissioners skipping through the HC, maybe that’s a first, huh?

In the evening we gathered in the fellowship lounge, casually and cozily, for a time of singing and sharing. Again, the testimonies and interaction were revealing, personal and intimate, a welcome contrast to the “Order of Procedures” sessions mentioned previously.

Ah yes, my field of potential nominees is beginning to narrow considerably.

A High Council Retrospective: Day Three & Four!

2011-01-21T21:03:00.000-08:00

Up bright and early waiting for our limousine when up pulls the same van that transported us previously. Oh well, one can always dream. I push Doris up and in and we we’re on our way. The sessions today don’t promise to be stimulating ones as we will be dealing with 104 Orders of Procedure. 104!

We are now well into the day and, boy, was the above “non-stimulation” observation an understatement. I must be very careful what I say from this point on (and I’m including day four as well, as this session seemingly lasted forever). The detailed, legalistic, ordered mind relishes in this kind of “Orders and Procedures” discussion environment, whilst the creative mind dies a slow death. For me, personally, these were two days of pure torture. Again, this is not a criticism, but an observation. We are who we are!

And I will have to admit that these sessions are important, not only to clarify orders and procedures, but to help us get to know our fellow HC members more intimately, the latter taking predominance in my own mind. The differentiation between right and left-brain thinkers becomes quickly apparent. One’s true personality, quirks and all, begins to emerge in this kind of setting, the gamut from introvert to extrovert, negative to positive, unimaginative to creative, status quoin to visionary.

This right-minded introvert didn’t have much to contribute, just watch, listen, observe, and squirm lots. There were a handful of members who had plenty to say, however, no names mentioned, as this is not meant to be a “tell all” piece (By the way, I can say this much. It wasn’t the women, now present, that were among this handful, as some had so stereotypically feared). Following are just a few of the “squirm” examples:

One left-brain thinker was concerned about the use of a “tic” as opposed to “cross” or “x” for marking the box on the ballot. Considerable time was spent on deciding whether there should be one or two ballot boxes. In defense of this, with seventy-five members, the voting process is quite lengthy as each voter must walk out of the chamber into the ballot room, cast their vote and return before the next in line could take their turn. I was in favor of two, but the majority felt that more than one person moving simultaneously would disturb the sanctity of the process, and perhaps they were right.

Another procedural order discussed at length was, “That no member of the High Council shall propose himself or herself or his or her spouse as nominee for the office of General.” The phrase one member wanted included was “or blood relative.” I must confess that this discussion not only made me squirm, but nearly drove me up the wall. But then again, to others it was extremely important. Come to think of it, I had previously served under a Divisional/Territorial Commander or two just like that. We are who we are!

Another was concerned with “confidentiality” now that spouses are a part of the High Council.” Really! Not only concerned, but passionate about it. To be fair, it wasn’t about gender, but the increase in number. Confidentiality and secrecy are important to some. For me, transparency is the true test of leadership. But then, we are who we are!

I could go on, but suffice to say that these two days were very revealing, and I use that word in the most positive sense. It was during this time that my nominee for General was confirmed.

There was also a lot of substantive discussion, at least by my definition. For example, there was some controversy over the procedural order, “that no question may be altered in its intention or rejected by the Committee without the concurrence of the questioner.” The reason it was controversial is because the hundreds of questions submitted to the Questions Committee for nominees to answer must be pared down, or the 14^th HC might still be in session. I felt strongly that my questions couldn’t be changed (possibly compromised) without my permission. Subsequently, we were able to view the revised questions before they were finalized.

Was I ever glad to conclude these two days and ease into the limousine for our leisurely ride home (in my dreams). Finally snugly tucked into bed, other dreams now occurring on the left side of my brain, punctuated with tics, crosses, x’s, blood relatives and 104 ballot boxes. I am what I am!

A High Council Retrospective: Day Two!

2011-01-20T10:07:00.000-08:00

This morning, after seven hours of interrupted sleep (tossing and turning), we begin the 14th High Council, first with the choosing of a non-member Recorder and Assistant Recorder: Lt. Colonel Laurence Hay and Colonel Earl Robinson. Second, came the choosing of non-member Translators (Korean and French) Captain Hwang, Sun-yup and Major Helene Carey. This was followed by a devotional period led by the Chief of the Staff, speaking from 1 Samuel 16.

Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, for I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (7)

In part he shared, “There were seven nominations and the least expected, David, was selected and anointed. ‘The Lord seeth, not as man seeth.’ God has already chosen the General. The High Council's task is to identify that person. We gather with one accord” (Acts 15:25, 28). The devotional concluded with the singing of "My life must be Christ's Broken Bread."

My all is in the Master's hands

For him to bless and break;

Beyond the brook and winepress stands

And thence my way I take,

Resolved the whole of love's demands

To give, for his dear sake.

I’m a little conflicted with the, “God has already chosen the General,” part. In speaking with others afterward, I sense a similar confliction. Has this person already been chosen, with the HC acting as a rubber stamp? Or does man choose and God anoint? Is it Predestination or foreknowledge? Semantics? My conclusion. No matter. Either way, he/she will be God’s chosen one to lead the army forward into the 21^st Century.

Legal Council was then summoned in and the role called. Three tellers were appointed according to seniority. Nominations for H.C. president followed. Thirteen nominations emerged with nine declining. Commissioner Bob Watson was elected President, no surprise here as the U.S.A. National Commander, historically, is elected to this post more often than not

This did, however precipitate a lengthy discussion on gender balance, the #2 vote getter (also a male) normally assuming the Vice Presidency role. Thus it was decided to hold a separate election, Commissioner Verna Skinner emerging as the VP. The Presidents first order of business was to appoint a Chaplain, Commissioner Margaret Taylor and Press/IHQ Liaison Officer, Colonel Shaw Clifton.

Commissioner John Larsson reviewed and clarified the, "Proposed Orders of Procedure for a High Council Convened to Elect a General." These were accepted unanimously and the morning session concluded with the singing of song # 525.

Take me life, and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to thee;

Take my moments and my days,

Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

As I sit at my desk, following, summing up what has transpired, three words jump out at me and I write them down: “Seniority,” “Position” and “Protocol.” And along with these three, I then jot down a fourth, “Predictability.” I share this not as a criticism, but rather an observation, which is to be expected and, I guess, necessarily so within any hierarchical organization. The creative mind thrives on chaos; the organizational mind on predictability and order. Either way, it’s the consecration part that matter most, isn’t it? Now off to lunch, not to be greeted by Kidney Pie, I pray.

This afternoon we enjoyed a reception in the Speakers apartment at the House of Parliament. We’re told that it is very rare for the British, let alone foreigners ever getting an opportunity to see this part of the house, located directly under Big Ben. The Speaker of the House greets us, my observation being that she is quite a powerful and forceful personality (The emphasis on “she”).

This was followed by the Welcome to the High Council at Westminster Central Hall, all seventy-four of us squished tightly together in order to fit on the platform, and seated according to protocol, of course. Doris was on my left and I got quite chummy with the person on my right (#26). Extremely uncomfortable!

The sound system was such that we couldn’t hear clearly from the back of the podium, sounding to me like everyone was speaking in a foreign tongue. Come to think of it, maybe they were. Attendance was a bit disappointing, the auditorium about two-thirds full. The ISB and ISS were impressive. Please take note that this comment comes from someone who is not a traditionalist, music wise. One final observation before concluding this writing: Either there was no air conditioning in the building or it wasn’t working. I’ll let the imagination take over from here.

It’s midnight before we get to bed, Doris getting three hours of sleep and I six (sort of). Oh, the glamor of it all!

Note: Every High Council reinvents itself, but the above retrospective will give you a glimpse of what might transpire in the morning session tomorrow.

A High Council Retrospective: Day One!

2011-01-18T19:25:00.000-08:00

Sitting on the 1999 High Council, I was inspired to keep a daily diary, which is foundational to an autobiographical piece presently in progress. I thought it might be timely to share edited parts of that diary. The first few days will be fleshed out a little more thoroughly than the mid to final days because I’m just in the beginning stages of this work. The working title is, “The Eras of My Way” (The word, “My,” will have a line through it and the word, “His,” handwritten above it). With this High Council as the centerpiece, I jump back and forth between eras, beginning with the 30’s, including snippets from the 1929 High Council. Anyway, here goes.

~Sunbury Court: Day One~

It feels surreal, sitting in The Salvation Army’s High Council Chambers, Sunbury Court, London, England, preparing for the election of a new General. In fact, I have to pinch myself from time to time to make sure it’s really me sitting here. Little did I know, at this moment, the historic-making drama that would play out over the following ten-days?

This 14^th High Council is already historic-making at its onset, the first where wives are now members, and rightfully so as full Commissioner’s. Heretofore it was (Mrs.) Commissioner, always an added appendage to her husband. Doris is sitting to my left, number 25 in order of protocol; the woman being promoted one day after her husband, not wanting to progress too quickly towards full amputation; it will come eventually, so for now, I am number 24. Sitting number 1 is always the Chief-of-the-Staff (2IC – second-in-command internationally), who in this instance is Commissioner Earl Maxwell. Sitting number 5, next to Commissioner Wilma Maxwell (number 2), is Commissioner John Gowans, his seating order predicated on time served as a Commissioner, not by appointment (Alternating numbers are seated on the opposite side). I mention these two men specifically because of their highly placed positions, protocol-wise, in the Council seating arrangement.

Sitting here, I can’t help but momentarily ponder the historical significance of this place, sensing the spirit of High Council’s past, photos of each decorating the walls, where my own will subsequently be added. Can you believe it? With the addition of spouses, a new chamber had to be built in order to accommodate the increase in number, 75 to be exact, with one missing due to unrest and travel restrictions within his country.

Earlier this morning we had breakfast in the original chamber where all meals are now served. Fried tomatoes pushed aside, my mind drifted back to the crisis initiating that first High Council 70-years ago, and I can sense the human drama that must have explosively filled this room.

If walls could only talk…

As Maxwell taps the welcoming gavel, I pinch myself yet once again. The High Council Chamber (“inner sanctum”), a place where 13 Generals have been elected, and voila! Here we sit. Unreal. Dreamlike. Surreal. “Ouch!” cried Doris, whom I also pinched to make sure it wasn’t just me.

To complicate matters, we flew in yesterday from Los Angeles following a National Advisory Organizations Conference convening in Pasadena: 13 hours, 8 time zones, 3 crying babies and a spirits-induced snorer in the seat directly behind us. No, it wasn’t one of the other American Commissioners accompanying us on the same flight.

Having awakened fully at 3:00 a.m. this morning (5:00 p.m. California time, the previous day), jet lag has taken its toll, severely messing with the molecules holding this 61-year old aging body together.

Because of the increased size of the High Council, there were not enough rooms for everyone at Sunbury Court, so the Americans and a few others were billeted down the road at a hotel on the river Thames. An early morning walk along its banks was refreshing, resulting in a partial clearing of the jet lag cobwebs. Another pinch as our gaze wandered with wonder, “Doris, Can you believe this?” She said, “No, I can’t. And don’t you dare pinch me again!” Regrettably I did, as so noted above.

It was a beautiful spring day, flowers blooming and not a cloud in the sky as the limousine escorted us to Sunbury Court. In our imagination! It was a corps van, 10 amply built Commissioners cozily scrunched together for the brief journey. Ah, the wonder is beginning to wane.

Today is scheduled as a pre High Council Leadership Conference, the morning session led by The General and Commissioner Kay Rader, and except for the public welcome meeting, their only official involvement with the HC. What a thrill it was to watch and listen as they summarized accomplishments during 5 jam-packed-years of international leadership, humbly and carefully giving God all the Glory. In conclusion, they charge and challenge us to consider prayerfully the God-given responsibility that will be ours. I must confess to a holy chill running up and down my spine at that very moment.

In the afternoon session each of the International Secretaries spoke on issues that the incoming General would face in their zones, much of it focusing on financial concerns, especially in supported territories. This was followed by interesting, insightful and sometimes very lively discussion. A highly respected, wizened and seasoned, retired Commissioner, who was previously a very credible nominee for General, had earlier counseled me thusly: “During the HC, many potential candidates for General will talk themselves out of being nominated.” During these sessions, the meaning behind that heretofore-puzzling statement started to click. Gee whiz, I thought to myself, these guys are human after all.

We were back to our rooms by 8:00 p.m., physically and mentally exhausted, and boy was I ready for a full nights sleep.

Note: This 2011 High Council is preceded by the General’s Consultative Counsel, which appears to be much longer in length as compared to our one day, pre-HG Leadership Conference. I must admit that my curiosity is peaked regarding the substance of what appears to be a very lengthy agenda.

A Life and Ministry Changing, God-Sign Moment!

2011-01-17T10:24:00.000-08:00

I’ve used this picture on several occassions. In fact, click on this link for one of my favorite quotes, this one by Martin Luther King, Jr.:

http://joenoland.blogspot.com/2010/11/pic-of-week-creative-extremists.html

Following is a chapter in a book I’m writing and gives perspective to what recently occurred in Tucson. It’s a continuation from a previous chapter and the Center referred to is Broadway Youth and Family Center, in Phoenix, Arizona, now being rebuilt as a Kroc Center. The holiday we celebrate today is a reminder that ‘Love Takes Courage!”

ARMS OPEN WIDE

Jefferson Airplane co-founder Paul Kantner said: "If you can remember anything about the sixties, you weren't really there," this because of the rampant drug use associated with the counter-culture of that era. It was a decade that spawned the counterculture/social revolution, anti-war movement (Viet Nam War), Civil Rights, Chicano Movement and New Left. Most notably, was the unprecedented number of assassinations occurring during this period:

Medger Evans, NAACP Field Secretary – June 12, 1963.
President John F. Kennedy – Nov. 22, 1963.
Malcolm X – Feb. 21, 1965.
Martin Luther King, Jr., April 4, 1968.
Senator Robert F. Kennedy – June 6, 1968.
Fred Hampton, Chairman, Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party – Dec. 1969.

Doris and I were privileged to experience this period in the prime of life, menacing, yet challenging and exciting in many ways. These two soldiers were thrust head-first, ominously, providentially and promisingly, into the midst of it all, yes, to create “God-signs…” even in spite of ourselves.

The date was April 4, 1968. Construction on the center was well underway and programs in full swing throughout the community with “God-signs” making their appearance regularly. We were not received with open arms; the black community suspicious of these two light skinned Salvation Army officers invading their turf uninvited, and understandably so. This was the climate we were facing when, on that inauspicious day, MLK was assassinated setting off another round of riots across the country.

To our utter surprise, several days later we were invited to participate in a city-wide memorial service, organized by black community leaders, honoring the life of MLK. More surprisingly, I was asked to be part of the procession, the only white face in a long line of dignitaries marching down the aisle. This was one of those life and ministry-changing “God-sign” moments. We would never be the same after that! In fact, this theme rings forth in most of my writings, the following an excerpt from my book, No Limits Together:

“Fourth, I would like to broaden this issue to cover human rights in general. I use the term “human rights,” not in the political sense, but from a scriptural perspective. Jesus’ ministry was all about preparation and empowerment—of everyone. He was the quintessential champion of human rights. He didn’t distinguish between people, whether they were male or female, black or white, short or tall, Jew or Gentile, free or slave, tax collector or priest. The terms “women’s rights,” “black rights,” “short people’s rights,” “Gentile rights,” “slave rights,” or “etcetera rights” were not found in his vocabulary. His passion was for “human rights.” He came to get the human right and level a skewed playing field. Through his ministry we see that if the human is right, the world is right.

The picture I want to portray is an inclusive portrait of human rights. As a Salvation Army officer, I feel strongly that every human being should be treated with dignity, both inside and outside the Army. I want every human being to be treated with equality. I want every human being to be treated with respect. I want every human being to be treated with compassion. I want every human being to be given glowing opportunities. I want to speak out against oppression of any kind. I am passionately opposed to any denial of human rights. I don’t want any human being to be relegated to the margins.”

I’ve quoted from the following passage of Scripture many times and I do it again – Acts 10, Message paraphrase:

“Peter fairly exploded with his good news: ‘It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open.’”

Leadership is all about inclusiveness and empowerment. This truth was cemented during that life and ministry-changing “God-sign” moment. And arms were beginning to open wide because of it.

A High Council Challenge: Think BIG!

2011-01-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

Having sat on two High Councils I knew exactly what I was looking for in a General: A VISIONARY, pure and simple. And I can tell you from experience that they are few and far between, making the choice a difficult one. I wonder who the visionaries are in this High Council? Were I sitting there, this is who and what I would be looking for, one who can think BIG!

My first High Council was called to elect a successor to General Paul A. Rader, one of my heroes, and a visionary in the purest sense of the word. Perhaps that’s why he was selected to write the chapter on, “Vision,” in Hallmarks of the Salvation Army. I’m not sure if those presently sitting in the HC Chambers will be reading this post or not, although each desk is equipped with a connection to the Internet. If perchance one of you comes scrolling by, I invite you to take note of a few selected quotes from this Chapter. They begin with the following prophetic statement:

“Having a vision can be the difference between thriving and extinction.” This is followed by what I consider to be it’s seminal paragraph:

“As Max dePree observes of vision in the corporate setting, fragility is part of the nature of vision. There are no guarantees. The vision must be widely shared and translated into what Donald McGavran used to call ‘hard, bold plans.’ A compelling vision will have about it a measure of risk, the promise of change and a touch of the unattainable. Not everyone will welcome a disruption of the status quo. Some will resent the moving of the goal posts (No room here to elucidate on this ugly reality, past and, yes, even present for me personally). The visionary leader with his or her team will be required to live the vision—to celebrate it, to clarify it to affirm and reaffirm it, and to align policy and practice with it, if it is to maintain it’s motive power.”

Is there a risk-taker with “a touch of the attainable” sitting amongst you? Is that someone willing to move the goal posts and stand up to his/her critics and naysayers, some of them “on the team” in word but not in deed? Is that someone discerning enough to know the difference and make the ‘team’ adjustments necessary? And what about enough boldness to align policy and practice with the vision? Live, celebrate, clarify, affirm and reaffirm? We’re not talking about the ordinary leader here, and this brings us to the concluding paragraph of the Chapter:

“Overly ambitious? Perhaps. If God owns the vision, nothing is impossible. The vision God will bless issues from his heart. As veteran missionary to Korea, David Ross, observes, ‘Only those who know God’s heart are invited to know his plan for his people’. If so, then the urgent cry for visionary leadership in our time must first be for us all a serious call to intimacy with God.” Therein is the true meaning of visionary “teamwork.”

God grant you wisdom, inspiration and spiritual discernment in the nomination process. And for you non-HC members listening in, stay tuned for further personal observations from that 1999 HC. They will give you a sense of the chambers inner workings.

To Heaven With Holiness!

2011-01-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

I must say it. President Obama’s speech in Tucson was brilliant, made me proud to be an American. One commentator said, “He sounded more like a preacher than a politician.” Those were my sentiments exactly as I listened. In fact, it was pretty close to a holiness message in some parts. In fact, if I were still a corps officer/pastor, a video of his message would replace my own sermon this Sunday. I would feel comfortable doing so because the content of his message was (is) totally bipartisan. Interested? Here’s the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztbJmXQDIGA

Left, right, up, down, backwards, sideways, let us come together. After all, isn’t this what Jesus preached?

Here’s my own two-line summation:

To hell with hatred.

To heaven with holiness.

Hebrews 12:14: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.

WITH EVERYONE!

To Hell With Hatred!

2011-01-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

Hatred is hell. The antithesis to hatred is holiness. Our memories are short. The incidence in Tucson several days ago, although sad and regretful, is but another hatred blip on life’s historical monitor; the holocaust perhaps being the mother of all blips, and occurring in my lifetime.

As usual, when these blips come, our focus is irrationally directed. The elixir for hatred cannot be found in gun control, the death penalty or anything else manmade, be it from the right, left or dead center. Wesley, Booth and others understood that the only elixir for hatred is holiness, period! “Elixir: a magical or medicinal potion: an elixir guaranteed to induce love.”

Nothing magical or medicinal about it, holiness is guaranteed Scripturally for all. Blogs, Facebook, Fox News, MSNBC, The War Cry, New Frontier, Priority, pulpit, wherever! This is where our elixir focus should be.

Proverbs 10:12: Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.

Hebrews 12:14: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.

To hell with hatred!

Glory! OMG!

2010-12-24T10:13:00.000-08:00

Doris and I have been together for forty-something years now. It is a challenge, on those special occasions in our life, to try and find the perfect gift for the perfect person who has everything (she is perfect you know... and enchanting! ). In December, for example, I begin the agonizing search. I shop until my feet are aching. I look until my eyes are blurring. I think until my head is spinning. There have been times when I thought I had found the perfect gift. For example, she loves cats. One Christmas I gave her a kitten, and that turned out to be a huge mistake. Right before my very eyes it quickly morphed into a cat. IT BACKSLID!

I thought I had found the perfect gift for our 25^th wedding anniversary. For years I had promised her a trip to Hawaii on this occasion. As fate would have it in our 25^th year we were appointed to Hawaii as divisional leaders. On the morning of June 4^th 1991 I took her out on the front porch of our home nestled in the lush gardens of Waioli in the Manoa valley. After surveying the tropical landscape, coconut, papaya, mango trees, I pointed to the blooming orchid bush in our yard, took her in my arms, gave her a kiss and said, “Happy anniversary. Its all yours!” And she said, “WHAT A GUY!”

On another special occasion I thought I had found the perfect gift. I gave her a very expensive set of diamond earrings. They were so expensive she hid them and then forgot where. For years those earrings remained hidden and she didn’t have the pleasure of wearing and enjoying them. We returned from our appointment in Hawaii and decided to go skiing. When she put on her ski boots she felt a strange object in the toe of her boot. The diamond earrings—GLORY!

On another Christmas, under the tree was a figurine, hand sculpted by “Illadro,’ of a nurse, as is she by profession and training. It is today prominently displayed in our home. She finds joy and great serenity in the beauty and handiwork of this great artist. In that way, it has great value to her.

When I look at it today, I look at it through different eyes. I look at it through an investor’s eyes and see how it has appreciated in value. When I look at it I see part of the mortgage being paid down. When I look at it I think about the next earthquake that will inevitably come. She says I have no soul. And with respect to that figurine she’s probably right.

In our home is also displayed the greatest gift ever given. It is not a static gift displayed in an ornate cabinet. It is a living gift that keeps on giving. People don’t have to come into our home to enjoy it. We take it with us wherever we go. And its value cannot be measured in material terms. With respect to this gift, I have a soul that is full of glory.

The Word (perfect gift) became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes – John 1:14 TM).

“OMG!”

Merry Christmas From the Left Coast!

2010-12-23T10:15:00.000-08:00

The Hound of Christmas

Watched a crazy movie the other night with some of the old SNL cast, “Mixed Nuts.” They were in the movie, not in our living room watching with us. Actually Doris purchased it the night before on “Movies On Demand” for a buck ninety-eight and for that price it’s yours to watch as many times as you want for 24 hours. Well, she wanted to get her money’s worth, so she insisted that I watch it with her again. Not bad, three viewings (she twice) work out to 66 cents each. Dim the lights, throw in a little microwave popcorn, couple of Dr. Peppers and you have a cheap date.

The film is shot along California’s Venice Beach Boardwalk, one of the craziest places on this planet, and with a Christmas theme, which makes it even crazier. Roller blading Santa’s, skate boarding snowmen, palm reading elves, pipers piping and a partridge in a pear tree make it even zanier. If you’ve never been there, Venice Beach should go on the top of your bucket list, Christmas time if possible.

It is so California and one of my favorite places. Walking down the boardwalk one December I shot the above picture. And I swear it was a window in the same building featured in “Mixed Nuts,” minus the hound. Love it! Guess that’s why they call it "The Left Coast."

Merry Christmas!

joeNdoris (Notice that her name is a little to the "right" of mine).

Christmas in the Army!

2010-12-10T16:31:00.000-08:00

Long time ago when we were always being asked to put clever Christmas programs together, Doris wrote these words to the tune, “Christmas in Killarney” – I think this one for a Divisional Christmas Party (Do they still have those?) A bit irreverent I guess.

As we sit on the beach in Hawaii, Christmas in the army is but a distant memory, no longer being asked for clever and creative. Feel free to use if you think it not too old fashioned. By the way, the timbrel art on this page is Doris’ creation also, painted on an old, well used tambourine (like us). Hum or howl along as you read the words. - just like the dog in the drawing.

Christmas in the Army

Is quite a thing to see.

Listen for a moment

And I’ll take you there with me.

The Carol Sing, the kettles ring,

The ladies go “League of Mercying.”

When it’s Christmas in the army,

You’re lucky to see your home!

It’s nice you know, to kiss your beau,

As off to the Home League Bazaar you go.

When it’s Christmas in the army,

You’re lucky to see your home!

The door is always open,

The neighbors pay a call.

They’re running up the stairs,

And then they’re hiding in the hall!

How grand it feels,

When all the meals

Are served and you’ve counted the mail appeals.

And the Santa Claus you’ve lined up

Is the Corps Sergeant Major’s son.

So if the mails not answered,

The stats aren’t coming in,

The phones are always busy

And the filing is a sin.

You’ll find it true at T.H.Q.

Or anywhere else that you travel too,

Though you’re dinner isn’t ready,

You’re lucky to be at home!

JAC Challenges High Council Members!

2010-12-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

Convening of The Salvation Army’s High Council at Sunbury Court has been announced: January 21, 2011 (not a pleasant time of the year, weather wise in London). Doris and I have had the opportunity and privilege of sitting on two of them: May 1999 when John Gowans was elected General, and August 2002, John Larsson the choice. We sat as retired officers on the latter, something that doesn’t occur very often. If you are an active officer (Commissioner) when the High Council is called, you automatically become a member. If I remember correctly, the HC was called approximately four days before my 65^th birthday. Voila! Seven weeks later, as rejuvenated retired officers, we found ourselves again in that hallowed space at Sunbury Court.

With those memories in mind and the approaching High Council, I direct you to the recent issue of Journal of Aggressive Christianity. Steve Court has a telling article in it titled, “High Council Issues.” The statistics he unveils are very sobering indeed.

http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html

I am convinced that every High Council member should have a copy of this article in hand for reference purposes and as a resource when preparing their submission questions to each nominee. Whoever the nominees, they should be required to answer questions revolving around the issues raised in this article. I applaud Court for the courage to put them out there. I’m going to bring it to the attention of those attending from my territory. Perhaps those reading this (and Court’s article) should do likewise. I know I would have appreciated something like this at my disposal when I was there. After all, they are representing us, aren’t they?

Pic of the Week: Awe, Yahweh and Auwe!

2010-11-24T16:06:00.000-08:00

One way to sum up my three score and ten is to say that the years have been blessed with 26,400 sunsets. I haven’t viewed them all obviously, but the ones I have serve as a constant reminder of the “awe!” that, for me, symbolizes life eternal. Some of the most beautiful and picturesque right here in Hawaii, as illustrated in this Pic of the Week.

I remember vividly our very first trip to Honolulu as Territorial Youth and Candidates Secretary for a Youth Council weekend. We arrived a day early and barefooted, walked along this same Waikiki Beach at sunset. It was as if we had stepped into another world, the awe and wonder of it all overwhelmingly breathtaking.

Now living in Hawaii, part of the time, just steps away from this same beach with its perennial sunsets, the awe and wonder has faded somewhat. Many evenings, even though a perfect view right off the lanai, we forego it for Larry King Live, a Lakers game or God forbid, The O’Reilly Factor! Auwe! (Hawaiian expression for “that’s awful or sad”).

Last evening, I walked over to the beach just as the sun was setting. I watched the tourists gather and listened to the camera’s clicking. And as the sun peaked over the celestial edge, its rays dancing off the clouds, a chorus of “ooh” and “ahs” sounded round me stereophonically. I was transported back to that first visit as together with these first time visitors, we stepped momentarily into another world.

There is poetic resonance between the words “awe” and “Yahweh,” isn’t there? "Then God spoke all these words. He said, ‘I am Yahweh your God who brought you out of Egypt…” into the Promised Land. Now fast forward this promise prophetically into the 21^st Century.

It’s a promise that should strike “awe” within us and must never be taken for granted. And if it is… AUWE!

Pic’s of the Week: Hang Loose!

2010-11-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

Doris took this photo on Veteran’s Day here in Hawaii at world-famous Kuhio Beach in Waikiki, just 150 steps from our small, humble little Hawaiian abode.

Rob, Denise, McKenna, Riley, Shea, Parker and Hayden are waving the Shaka sign, conveying what locals in Hawaii call the “Aloha Spirit,” a gesture of friendship and understanding between the various ethnic cultures that reside within Hawaii. Our grandkids symbolize a representative mix of these cultures: Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Italian, Irish, Scottish, German and only God knows what else. Their maternal grandfather was adopted and not sure of his heritage on the fraternal side.

Or another way of saying it is, "Hang Loose!" And that's exactly what we were doing on this day. My prayer is that this “friendship and understanding” spirit be replicated throughout America, beginning in Congress, Republicans, Democrats, Independents, Tea Partiers alike. Let’s make the “Spirit of Aloha” in Hawaii a microcosm of what the United States of America should look like. I think this is what President Obama was signaling when he waved the Shaka sign during his inauguration.

The message meant to be portrayed in these photos: “HANG LOOSE, AMERICA!”

Pic of the Week: Creative Extremists!

2010-11-13T10:52:00.000-08:00

Here’s one of my favorite quotes from someone I admire greatly:

“The question is not whether we will be extremists, but what kind of extremists we will be... The nation and the world are in dire need of creative extremists.” (Martin Luther King, Jr.)

Hate filled extremists destroy. Love filled extremists create. Therein is the difference: destructive or creative extremists. Which label did Jesus wear? Which sign will you carry this week?

Visioning Westward!

2010-11-03T12:44:00.000-07:00

Commissioner Jim Knaggs (Territorial Commander, USA Western Territory) is laying out his vision in Cyberspace:

http://tcspeak.com/blog/2010/10/27/territorial-visioning-page-1/ (Follow it through Page 7)

It is both innovative and participatory. Innovative because its taking advantage of the Internet. Participatory because you’re invited to comment. When was the last time you participated in a territorial visioning process?

Let’s get behind the TC with positive, creative feedback and support.

One Day, A Dream! (Part 2)

2010-11-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is today, over a Century later, an Army firmly established with systems galore - some of them necessary, many not. What to do? - “…less restrictive, more imaginative and accommodating.” A tall order indeed! Click on the following for my take on “What To Do.” http://therubicon.org/2010/11/one-day-part-2/ There will be a link to Part 1 if you haven’t read it already.

One Day, A Dream! (Part 1)

2010-10-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

Commissioner Jim Knaggs has recently published a visionary statement via the USA Western Territory. I was one out of a cast of several invited to write a chapter on one of the 35 vision statements contained therein. Mine is as follows:

‘ONE DAY! …that our systems would be less restrictive and more imaginative in order to accommodate the new things God wants to do among us.’

I begin with this opening paragraph: “First, let me applaud the Commissioner for including this pesky vision in his “One Day” dream. And for the courage of asking me to write about it!”

Click on over to http://therubicon.org/2010/10/one-day-part-1/ for the rest of the story.

CHARGE!

2010-10-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

Charge!

An earlier post here outlines an issue of “Journal of Aggressive Christianity” that I edited. Worth a read if you haven’t already: http://joenoland.blogspot.com/2010_08_01_archive.html (Scroll down to August 3).

Also the latest JAC issue features an article written by General Paul (Rtd) and Commissioner Kay Rader titled, “A Conversation About Salvation Army Officership.” This was to be part of the previous issue and will be a chapter in the book when published. It too is well worth a read: http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html

Kroc & Freeman!

2010-10-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit dilatory with this blog lately. Too much going on right now and I'm supposed to be retired! The following four items are worth your time.

Freddy Freeman, Salvationist from the Tustin Ranch Corps, Southern California to be opening day first basemen for the Atlanta Braves.

http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/braves-gm-derrek-lee-had-torn-thumb-ligament-freeman-to-be-opening-day-first-baseman.php

Major John Chamness, Coeur d'Alene Kroc Center, shares the following videos. Good stuff.

DONT STOP BELIEVING:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apgCm1hz5cs

I HEART MY JOB:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Zqi6XvOGSI

Major's Guy and Denise Hawk share the following progress report on the Phoenix South Mountain Kroc Center. We were with them a couple of weekends ago and when I catch up will blog about the experience. A lot of nostalgia there.
http://www.southmountainkroccenter.org/home.html
Watch its progress on this earthcam:
http://earthcam.com/clients/sigma/kroc/

JN

Plug Officership!

2010-09-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

Some healthy dialogue happening over at TheRubicon, my post part of it. And all because we love the Army, its mission and the personal impact of its message on each one of us personally and together corporately. This kind of open discussion, concern and searching bodes well for the future. Click on over below and join in.

http://therubicon.org/2010/09/plug-officership/

Danny Boy

2010-09-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

This the title of a short film we made as a showpiece to demonstrate the quality of work we are capable of. I was one of the Executive Producers, Guy writer, producer and director. Had its premier screening at the of Academy of Television and Motion Pictures. It was an official Selection of The Hollywood Film Festival, San Fernando Valley International Film Fest, Sacramento Film and Music Fest, and Valley Film Festival. For his directing work, Guy was selected as a featured filmmaker on MTV’s Best Film Maker On Campus. It was also winner of the "Golden Honu Award" at the Big Island Film Festival, Hawaii. I was there to accept the award on Guy’s behalf. This year, they asked permission to feature it again at the Mauna Lani Resort. I sat in on many of the screenings and the crowd reaction was phenomenol.

A short trailer of the film was originally placed on YouTube, to this date 10,543 viewings:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMXsr8z9nYU

For the full length feature (9:40 minutes), click on the following (1284 viewings so far). On both be sure to check out comments on the thread following:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhbLceGBq8k&NR=1

One of our dreams, hopes and ambitions is to follow with a full length feature film. Following is a synopsis:

A wonderfully dark comedy, Elmer’s Glue follows the journey from addiction, through rehabilitation, and ultimately into the light of recovery. After hitting rock bottom, Elmer is court-ordered into a Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center. Just as he begins to embrace his recovery, Elmer stumbles across a suitcase full of cash while sorting through a thrift store donation bin. The true owner of the loot, a dangerous mob hit man, stashed the money while fleeing law enforcement and will stop at nothing to regain his fortune, even if that means committing himself into the rehab program. Elmer’s inner journey of redemption (including a B-line love story) combined with the relentless pursuit by a bloodthirsty killer, make for a whimsical rollercoaster ride to be enjoyed by all ages. Filled with twists and turns, the ending surprising and heartwarming.”

And who knows, the stars of Danny Boy, Clint Howard and Gabriel Damon, might even team up again for this epic adventure. For more go to www.hallowedgroundproductions.com.

Love Takes Courage!

2010-09-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

I love the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s position statement on Gay and Lesbian Sexuality, very balanced and inclusive:

“The Salvation Army upholds the dignity of all persons. For this reason, and in obedience to the example of Jesus Christ, whose compassionate love is all-embracing, The Salvation Army does not discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation in the delivery of its services.

The Salvation Army believes that God’s will for the expression of sexual intimacy is revealed in the Bible, and that living fully in accordance with biblical standards calls for chastity outside of heterosexual marriage and faithfulness within it. We do not believe that same-sex attraction is necessarily blameworthy and we oppose the vilification and mistreatment of gays and lesbians. We believe that we are accountable for the ways in which we express our sexuality. While recognizing the challenge that this presents, The Salvation Army believes firmly in the power of God’s grace to enable all to live in a manner that is pleasing to Him.

In keeping with our mission, we are committed to proclaiming the good news of salvation, the forgiveness of sins, and transformation by the Holy Spirit. We welcome all seekers of faith in Christ to explore Salvation Army church life.”

Way to go Canada! Mirrors the thinking expressed in my book, “Lean Right, Love Left! Balancing the Body,” available: http://www.joenoland.com/joenoland/Creations.html

Should Glenn Beck Speak For Christians?

2010-08-31T15:15:00.000-07:00

“Mormonism and Mammonism are contrary to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They offer another Lord Jesus than the One offered in the Scriptures and Christian tradition, and another way to approach Him. An embrace of these tragic new vehicles for the old Gnostic heresy is unloving to our Mormon friends and secularist neighbors, and to the rest of the watching world. Any “revival” that is possible without the Lord Jesus Christ is a “revival” of a different kind of spirit than the Spirit of Christ (1 John 4:1-3). – Excerpt from Dr. Russell D. Moore’s article in Relevant Magazine.”

I have been agonizing over writing a piece in response to the unbelievable mania and misdirection that is gripping a substantial number of “Christians” today in America. Titles that have come to mind are, “The New Billy Graham?” or “The Angel Moroni Reincarnate?” or “The Holy Bible and Book of Mormon Merging?”

But alas! No need. Dr. Moore, more educated, knowledgeable and articulate than I, has captured it marvelously in the following piece. “If anyone has an ear, let him hear” (Revelation 13:9).

http://www.relevantmagazine.com/life/current-events/op-ed-blog/22717-should-glenn-beck-speak-for-christians

Street Pharmacist!

2010-08-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Read Matt’s amazing testimony about his encounter with a street pharmacist in the following link: http://www.saynetwork.com/revhi2/?p=43 Also the comment following. You will be blessed. God is doing a great work through Revolution Hawaii. Fortunately, I get to see a lot of it first hand.

Breaking New Ground!

2010-08-23T20:07:00.000-07:00

Continuing with another gem from the book pictured in the post below – Maintenance Vs Leadership:

J. Richard Chase: “A definition I’ve run into says, ‘You manage what’s there.’ Leaders should be good managers in the sense that they ought to be looking for more creative ways to enhance what they’re already doing. But if you equate management with maintenance, then you’ve got a problem. As a leader, you need to be out front, breaking new ground, providing vision. Maintenance can push aside visionary leadership, and that’s not good.

Pastors easily get into that situation: They preach every Sunday, teach the Bible on Wednesday, and do discipling on another day, until there’s little time to capture a vision, a new challenge for their congregations to impact the world for Christ. Managing can become a leadership role as long as it challenges others to do more than attend and listen.”

Hmmm. Some pretty good counsel here don’t you think?

Manipulative Expectations!

2010-08-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this pictured book recently:

Leaders” – Learning Leadership from Some of Christianity’s Best. Harold Myra, ed.

There are some gems within worth sharing here, especially for those engaged in denominational leadership at every level. Here’s one piece of advice, looking back, that resonates particulary. Too late for me, hopefully not so for you emerging leaders reading this:

Richard Foster: “I went to a tiny church in Southern California that would rank as a marginal failure on the ecclesiastical scoreboards. I went in there and worked and planned and organized, determined to turn this church around. But things got worse. Anger seemed to permeate everyone: the conservatives were mad at the liberals, the liberals were mad at the radicals, and the radicals were mad at everyone else. I hated to go to pastors’ conferences because I didn’t have any success stories to tell. I was working myself to death, but it seemed to do no good. Then I spent three days with my spiritual director. Toward the end of that time he said, ‘Dick, you have to decide whether you are going to be a minister of this church or a minister of Christ.’ That was a turning point. Until then I had allowed other people’s – and my own – expectations to manipulate me.”

A Slightly Irregular thought: In my experience, most of our corps would “rank as marginal failures on the ecclesiastical scoreboard,” thus encompassing Divisions and Territory’s as well.

Good advice for leaders at every level.

Scary Statistics/Terrifying Trends

2010-08-20T12:02:00.000-07:00

You can access my take on these statistics and trends over at http://therubicon.org/category/think/

I’ve written a book titled, “HOPE! Flight Manual for Prospective Angels.” I outline some disturbing trends therein, with suggested solutions. With this in mind, I happened upon a FaceBook thread instigated by Steve Bussey asking questions relative to the decline in Sunday School attendance. His comment:

“Did you know? That in the 1950s, The Salvation Army in America had 'Century Sunday Schools'? Every Corps that had more than 100 kids coming to Sunday School would be part of this group. Some Corps even had 200 kids on a Sunday! Why not revive the Century Sunday School club for the 21st Century?”

Unless I’m hallucinating, there seems to be some interest/concern and a very long thread developing over there on this vital subject. The answers to some of these questions are simple, yet complex. Following is an excerpt from a post I found that may give us some hints:

“Young Adults today are looking for depth. And the Bible is full of it. In fact, the life of Jesus Christ could not get deeper! So why is that young adults who have grown up in the faith are now finding that their heart’s desire for more meaning is leading them outside of the local church? Why are young adults starting non-profit organizations instead of volunteering to be a youth leader? What is the church missing that they are looking for? Perhaps the answer is best found in asking them.” Go to the following link for their answers:

http://www.youngadultsagblog.com/2010/07/we-dont-go-to-church.html

JN

An O&R Litmus Test!

2010-08-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

In George Scott Railton’s biography ‘General Booth,’ he quotes what Booth said about change 17 years after issuing the first Orders and Regulations for Field Officers:

“The Regulations…must not be regarded as a final authority on the duties and responsibilities to which they refer. Development has been the order of the Army from the beginning, and will, I hope, remain so the end. Our methods must of necessity be always changing with the ever-varying character and circumstances of the people whom we seek to benefit. But our principles remain as unchangeable as the Throne of Jehovah.”

The problem is that most of the time we unfortunately confuse‘ methods’ with ‘principles’ (core values). In other words, regulations have more to do with our methods than they have to do with our core values.

Speaking of core values, the National Community Church (http://theaterchurch.com/) has some good ones. I wonder how ours would stack up against them? Or do we even know what they are?

“NCC's twelve core values are part of the DNA of National Community Church. They are both descriptive and prescriptive of who we are as a church.

• Expect the unexpected
• Irrelevance is irreverence
• Love people when they least expect it and least deserve it
• Playing it safe is risky
• Pray like it depends on God and work like it depends on you
• Everyone is invaluable and irreplaceable
• Everything is an experiment
• You cannot out give God
• Maturity does not equal conformity
• Go the extra mile
• It's never too late to be who you might have been
• Do it right and do it big”

How do your own core values stack up against these? Use Jesus as the Litmus Test when examining the above.

JN

The Rebellious Nature!

2010-08-11T11:34:00.000-07:00

Love this quote from Rob Bell, founder of Mars Hill Bible Church, Michigan, USA, with a congregation of 7500 (http://marshill.org/):

“I’ve always liked the rebellious nature of Jesus. He seemed to make uptight religious people nervous, while the ‘sinners’ seemed to delight in his presence.”

Check out Steve Court’s August 9,10,11 posts over at http://www.armybarmy.com/blog.html. “Nervous” or “Delight?”

Lord, stir our rebellious natures, even though it’s going to get uncomfortable at times.

JN

Challenging the Generals!

2010-08-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

Steve Court has put up an insightful post - http://www.armybarmy.com/blog.html (August 9, 2010) - based upon a magazine article, “Challenging the Generals.” I reference this article at the end of my e-book, “Out of the Rubble…Revolution!” This reference can be found in the final section titled, “The Repertory (A Sampling),” along with a number of other samplings. The Salvation Army is also one of those samplings. Actually, this section is critical to an understanding of the books main thesis.

The e-book can be accessed as follows: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/14719. You can download a sampling of the first half free, and for a mere 99 cents the book is yours in its entirety. All emerging leaders (secular and spiritual) need to consider the implications of this book, written in allegorical form, its message relevant to our future.

JN

The Broadway Era!

2010-08-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Past, Present, Future video produced with the groundbreaking of the South Mountain Kroc Center brought to mind some blogs I wrote about the (1967 – 71) groundbreaking, dedication, opening, etc., of the Broadway Youth and Family Center, as we so named it then. Some bright fellow came along later and had the name changed to “South Mountain,” but that’s another story for another day. If interested go to the following link: http://joenoland.blogspot.com/2008_05_01_archive.html.

Begin with the May 7 post at the bottom and read upward through the end of May. Also, I neglected to mention that the very popular comedian/celebrity, Godfrey Cambridge, performed during the dedication ceremony. These posts will represent chapters in my autobiography, “The Eras of His Way,” still a work in progress. And I’m not yet finished with the “Broadway Era,” more to come. Enjoy!

Incidentally, for historical accuracy, the center actually began operating out of a mobile office (donated by the Salt River Project) on the property, September 1967, not in 1968 as often reported. We had Pop Warner football practice on the field as the building was going up, among other things.

JN

Officer Outliers!

2010-08-05T13:14:00.000-07:00

Have you read the book, Outliers? For a peak preview and my take on how it applies to TSA officership, check out the latest post over at http://therubicon.org/2010/08/officer-outliers/. After that follow the link on over to http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html for “the rest of the story.”

JN

Wise Words of Counsel!

2010-08-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

Journal of Christianity (JAC) August/September issue #68 - “CHARGE! Looking Back. Facing Forward: 5 Wise Words of Counsel.” is now posted over at http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html. I had something to do with compiling it (but don’t let that dissuade you from reading it); following is an outline of its contents. It’s worth a read. Attention, Training School Principals! Might even make good curriculum fodder for a course at SFOT (TSA 101):

“For(e)ward… CHARGE!” Editorial Introduction, Guest Editor, Commissioner Joe Noland

“A Compromising Joe!” (Part 1) Commissioner Joe Noland

“Five Words of Counsel” - Colonel John Bate

“Marked Urgent!” Commissioner Wesley Harris

“Set Apart For Jesus" - Commissioner” - Carol Bassett

“If I Had My Time Over Again” - Major Harold Hill

“You Did Not Choose Me...” -General Bramwell Tillsley (Rtd)

“Five Words of Counsel” - Lt. Colonel Mervyn Leach

“They Will Know We Are Christians By Our Love” - Commissioner John Nelson

Five Wise Words Of Encouragement And Counsel For Newly Commissioned Officers Of The Salvation Army” – Lt. Colonel David Hammond

“Looking Back and Facing Forward” - Commissioner Todd Bassett

“A Gentrified Joe!” (Part 2) Commissioner Joe Noland

Our hope is to add more contributors and bring this out in soft/hardcover (SFOT Textbook?). This Friday, August 6, check The Rubicon for a more detailed introduction of this project: http://therubicon.org/

JN

I Dare You!

2010-07-29T13:34:00.001-07:00

Lately “change” and “risk taking” have been at the forefront of my thinking for a number of reasons. First, I came across this Queenstown, New Zealand Bungee jump pic, taken on one of our sojourns down there. Thinking about going back and making that jump on my 77th birthday.

Second, I’ve been working on an upcoming issue for the “Journal of Aggressive Christianity” (JAC) titled, “Charge! Looking Back. Facing Forward: 5 Wise Words of Counsel,” and my contribution (Charge!) involves these two factors – “Were I doing it over, I would be bolder in my approach toward soul saving/evangelism and I would most definitely take more risks” – It’ll be out August 1 over at www.armybarmy.com. The entire issue a must read for present and future leaders.

Third, Commissioner Jim Knaggs recently wrote a little piece on “Change” in his online column, “TCSpeak.” (http://tcspeak.com/blog/2010/07/27/things-change/). Not only does he write on the subject, he’s setting the pace for us. Check it out and make it a habit to follow his writings regularly.

Fourth, in the August edition of “Reader’s Digest” there’s an article, “Life as a Daredevil” featuring Captain Linda Greenlaw, whose life is portrayed in the film, “The Perfect Storm.” She writes, in part, “So what’s the real risk? For me, it’s not about imperiling life and limb for the glory of surviving. What I risk continually, what I fear most, is failure, which I define as passivity…A mentor once told me that those who do nothing never make mistakes. I make a lot of mistakes. To my mind, that is preferable to playing it safe.”

Finally, in the midst of this thinking, I chanced upon a “Slightly Irregular” post written back in October 2006: http://joenoland.blogspot.com/2006/10/deep-change.html. “My risk taking paled in comparison to the risks that Jesus took.” He was the quintessential risk taker and change agent, every risk taken for the right reasons (Don’t think Bungee Jumping would be high on His priority list).

Read the links highlighted above and follow their counsel. I dare you!

JN

We Don't Go to Church!

2010-07-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Worth a look for every aspiring Army (Church) leader.
http://www.youngadultsagblog.com/2010/07/we-dont-go-to-church.html

God’s Sense of Humor | Look at us!

2010-07-11T15:10:00.000-07:00

I will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are your works… (Ps 134:14).

For my slightly irreverent take on this verse, click here.

JN

Our Real Thoughts!

2010-07-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

Left to right: McKenna (11), Shea (6), Riley (10) - granddaughters. McKenna is writing an advice column (blog) for parents: http://macsthoughtshac.blogspot.com/. No way I could have expressed myself this clearly at age 11. Think her argument is persuasive enough to win her parents over and get her own room? Stay tuned for the answer. Better yet, become a follower of her blog.

McKenna won the Drama Award at Music Arts Camp, now two years running. Riley won the Vocal Solo Competition last year and came in 2nd this year. Must have been close, though: all 10’s on the camp musical director’s scorecard, mostly 10’s with a few 9’s scattered in on the other two – very proud of them both.

Want my real thoughts about awards at music camps, go to the post I wrote this same time last year: http://slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com/2009/06/round-and-round.html

Every child a winner!

JN

Among Goliaths | Standing Out!

2010-07-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's Lorna Luft pictured above, daughter of legend Judy Garland. We met her on board ship during our Alaskan Cruise. She was one of the featured performers, singing a medley from Guys and Dolls, among other things and said some good things about TSA. Click on over to www.slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com for the entire story.

There's another picture there showing me and the the divisional leaders after dismounting our moose, meese, or whatever the plural to that is. Also something about light and bushels and uniform wearing, some of it communicated a bit irreverently, but true non the less.

JN

The Aloha of Holiness!

2010-06-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

This logo was designed by Rob Noland and is one of my alternative “WARdrobe: Army Apparel” choices while in the islands or any other warm weather climate for that matter.

In Hawaiian tradition, these lei (garlands) were worn by ancient Hawaiians to beautify themselves and distinguish themselves from others. Among other sacred uses, it was used to signify a peace agreement between opposing chiefs.

The Lei greeting, when presented and accepted, has come to signify a mutual feeling of Aloha: welcome, peace, unconditional love. In TSA parlance it signifies holiness, beautifying ourselves with with the Lei of Aloha, thereby distinguishing ourselves as in the world, but separate from it. The Lei, draped over the Crest represents this Aloha of Holiness, a beautiful and meaningful expression, I think.

JN

Day of Rest | Rest Room Missionaries?

2010-06-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Got your curiosity up? Some continuing irreverent thoughts on our Alaskan Cruise over at www.slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com.

JN

Satisfaction Guaranteed! | What are the Odds?

2010-06-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Check out my slightly irreverent take on our visit to Ketchikan, Alaska over at www.slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com (#2 in the series). Enjoy!

Also, you may want to check out my new ebook, “Out of the Rubble… Revolution!” (See post below for link, if you haven’t already).

JN

ebook!

2010-06-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

This is my latest creative work published as an ebook: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/14719 Download for a free preview (50% of the book), and for a mere pittance, you can read the conclusion, pulling it all together, all meager proceeds going toward furthering "The Revolution!" Please share with those whom you think might benefit. Thanks.

Following is a description:

Written in the form of an allegory and creatively illustrated, this book begins with a fresh voice, a new song, a love song emerging out of the rubble – a crumbling institution, in need of restitution, Revolution!

It’s Minstrel guided narrative takes the reader, entertainingly, inspirationally and educationally, through the life cycle of an institution, be it familial, corporate, political or ecclesiastical in nature. Along the way, danger signs are posted at critical change points within the cycle, designed as warning signals for the institutional traveler. How one responds to change is a predictor of whether or not the institution will rise or fall.

This little parabolic adventure is about leadership and the dangers of monument building – where process, bigness, status quo and control become more important than the mission. The world today is replete with examples, a sampling of them suggested in the Postlude. Among them are Google, Microsoft, General Motors, Catholicism and Protestantism. Discover where you and your institution(s) fit within the cycle?

Out of the Rubble…Revolution! is “An Allegory of Monumental Disproportions” and a “must” resource for leaderships seminars, training and conferences at every level. And it makes an insightful bedside companion no matter where you fit in the corporate- institutional hierarchy.

JN

North to Alaska | Shush!

2010-06-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Just back from a cruise to Alaska. You will find the first in a series – Slightly Irreverent Travelogue – over at www.slightlyirreverent.blogspot.com.

For those Salvationist readers some interesting dialogue on the new Handbook of Doctrine over at www.therubicon.org. I wrote my take on it: Much Ado About… | The Rumpus Blur!

JN

COMM 2 COMM | Unsung

2010-05-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

Because of time limits, one of the questions Commissioner Jim Knaggs asked me during the interview over at isalvos.com, didn’t get answered entirely: “Who are your heroes?” The full answer to that question can be found over at www.therubicon.net - COM2COM – Unsung Heroes!””

Well, maybe not fully. There wasn’t room to list them all, but you will get the idea. Others I can think of beyond the list of unmentioned Corps Officers are my mother, maternal grandmother, Billy Graham, General Frederick Coutts, Commissioner Hillmon Buckingham, Harry Truman, Mrs. McFadden (An early day Sunday School teacher) and others who at this writing don’t come readily to mind – all influencing who I am greatly to varying degrees. Might I suggest that this would be a good exercise for everyone – writing down that list of Unsung Heroes influencing your life, followed by the uttering of this prayer: “Thank you Lord!”

JN

Hooray for Hollywood!

2010-04-24T13:40:00.000-07:00

I’ve been fooling around with imovie on my Mac and created a short teaser promo for the film we’ve been working on, “Camp Wattabunchaphun: Goin’ On A Treasure Hunt.” It’s been uploaded to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRrOgp_69mY It’s in the editing phase right now, a slow process because of money and time constraints, our editor squeezing it in between those responsibilities that put food on the table. But it’s coming along, slowly but surely, and looking good.

Do me a favor and pass this on within your circle of influence. This will help us get a buzz going. More information on the film can be found at www.hallowedgroundproductions.com and we also have a Camp Wattabunchaphun Facebook page. Thanks for your help.

Oh, and you’ll have to watch it to see how the “Hooray for Hollywood” fits in.

JN

CREATE A BUZZ!

2010-04-13T12:17:00.001-07:00

In addition to those things mention in my post below, there’s the film my other son, Guy and I are working on. It’s being edited now, slowly but surely. Check out the “Camp Wattabunchaphun” Facebook page. Become a fan and share it with your friends, then ask them to share with theirs – help us CREATE A BUZZ, because it’s Kingdom worthy. Thanks.

JN

COMM 2 COMM!

2010-04-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Rubicon is running a short series on the 5 questions asked me by Commissioner Jim Knaggs on isalvos.net. Question #2 is now up. Check it out, both the webcast and then the follow up over at COMM 2 COMM.

Also my son, Rob (Revolution Hawaii, The Upper Room, The Rock), was interviewed last week, and listening to it learned some things I didn’t know – same link as above.

For those of you on Facebook, I’ve created a page for my book, “Lean Right, Love Left: Balancing the Body. You’re invited to become a fan if so inclined. I also created a companion blog to accompany it (Facebook limits the words per “What’s on your mind?”) 1COR13.

Cyberspace: TSA’s 21st Century street-corner, open-air opportunity. Only now we refer to it as “Open Cyber-air Corner.” Claim your own corner (facebook page) and start getting the message out to those who will surely pass by. And don’t let this unprecedented opportunity pass by either. In the last century we were limited by space and time. Now there are, “NO LIMITS TOGETHER!” This cyber-air corner is as close to omnipresence as its going to get in this life. Think about it, possibilities unlimited! No excuse for shrinking statistics and enrollments. LET’S GROW TOGETHER!

JN

Never!

2010-04-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

Catherine Booth poses contemplatively in this photo. Can you feel the passion in her gaze? I can!

Never!
When Catherine said, “Never!” she was saying “Yes!” to Genesis and “No!” to status quno. This is one of those rare instances where the word, “No!” is appropriate because, in this case, a “yes” would have been a “no” to Genesis. In the same breath she said “No!” to culture and “Yes!” to need.

Souls crying out in dizzying confusion
Two of them spiritually aware

Products of unwieldy, chaotic diffusion
Yielded together in prayer

Desperately seeking a healing infusion
Asking, “Who’s out there to care?”

Viewed by some an unwanted intrusion.
Thus igniting her passion with flare!

NEVER!

This one word, felt passionately and delivered spontaneously ignited a Genesis movement, unstoppable. Chaos is the incubator for creativity and inyesvation; Passion is its fuel and energy (The singing and dancing part, so much so that...).

Passion: Spontaneous spiritual combustion (Noland).

Cyberspace Link: In this video clip listen to William Booth say in his own words, “No! Ten thousand times no!” Listen closely and you will hear in that no, a resounding yes: “No!” to status quno and “Yes!” to need. As you listen begin to feel the passion. Soak it in! Let it percolate. Start tasting it. This passion soaking process is critical and foundational to the makings of a Genesis person.

Ready? Get set. Ignite!

JN