Bad news is time to trust and time to pray.

Because of the good news of the love of God for each of us, bad news is never so bad. Bad news can involve pain, disappointment, discouragement, and more, but the good news of God’s care makes even the worst news better.

Often, bad news requires action on our part, or at least a good decision. Faith does not mean that we ignore the bad or bury our heads in the sand. We move towards God and trust Him through. He will not leave us helpless. Hey, that’s good news. Hallelujah!

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:13-14 NIV

Are you happy with the same old, same old? I’m not. The way we have served through the years have brought us to this wonderful moment in history. The fact is, that today is a new day, in need of a newer approach to mission. The gospel hasn’t changed and will not, but our methods to present the gospel and serve the Lord must remain fresh.

SAVN.TV is moving forward along these lines as are our initiatives to further minister to ARC beneficiaries and summer campers. I see us moving in most of our ministries. I pray that our people will act with courageous faith to advance the Kingdom of God today and every day. Hallelujah!

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 NIV

Where do we turn when we are seeking the deep truths of life? In many cases, parents are a good place to start. I am fortunate to have parents that have always been loving, honest and purposeful. The foundation they provided me is irreplaceable and gives me an acknowledged advantage today. Their love for God, each other and us kids kept us safe and gave us hope.

Many don’t have such a start. Perhaps there was that teacher in school who showed a special interest in understanding you or the neighbor, or the minister. Certainly the truths in life are found best in the context of a relationship where understanding can come from one person to another.

At this place in life I have learned much from my wife. She faithfully tolerates my distractions and sees me through to the truth in dependable and unconditional ways.

Our kids, originals and additions (you have to know our story), have taught me amazing truth. Often I’m tempted to force my truth upon them and they lovingly and respectfully temper my proclivities towards truth, stronger than context.

The constant thread in all of these relationships is the provision and care of God. He awakens my heart to His truth and reminds me that relative truth is a facade. His truth reigns in every culture, generation, and circumstance. His truth resoundingly amplifies His love for me and all that I love.

I find His truth in my soul. I find His truth in His Word, the Bible. I find His truth sets me free and yet defines authentic freedom that has parameters. I find His truth does not waver.

I am glad we can know the truth. It’s found in Jesus. Yes!

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No person comes to the Father but by me.” (John’s gospel)

It’s on its way. People Count 2.0 is a newly modified mission message service that drives mission imperatives forward in our ministries. Watch for it in a day or two and try it out. There”ll be a video, mission statistics, graphs, stories of saving grace, and opportunities to affirm each other throughout the territory.

It will accomplish two major objectives:

1. Glorify God by detailing how He is moving through our ministries

2. Accentuate the mission imperatives of the territory

What are the mission imperatives? Check out People Count and you’ll find out.

I can tell you that as of the latest reports, the following ministries had more than 25 people come to saving grace this past week:

Riverside CA Corps
Serendipity Senior Day Care Center, Alaska
Federal Way Corps, WA
San Pedro Temple, CA
Lytton ARC, CA

Hallelujah!

“[Life Through the Spirit] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2 NIV

The Annual Review of the Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command lived up to our expectations. We came to observe the presence of God throughout their ministries. They represent the finest in our work with strong and compelling witness to the grace of God in the lives of thousands of people. Hallelujah!

Expect to see even more evidence of the power of God in the days ahead. This is a command that’s moving forward.

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:5-6 NIV

That’s the chapel outside and inside.

Then there’s the Dining Hall outside and inside.

This then is the pond and garden in the vicinity of the two buildings.

The entire complex is on about twenty acres with residences, warehouses, garages and a super Family Store. It all adds up to significant ministry for hundreds of people throughout the year. It is under the leadership of Captains Jessica and Tony Markiewicz and it is exceptional. Hallelujah!

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV