Identity

Who are we? What do we do? What do we look like? Are we recognisable as as a church? Is Uniform out dated? etc.....etc.....etc

These questions seem to have been going round and round the SA world for as long as I can remember. To be honest I am bored of the discussions because we seem to have missed to point.

Does it really matter what we physically look like, surly it i our presence and purpose that will identify us as the Salvation Army, more importantly as followers of Jesus. We have forgotten that the world doesn't need another "fad" or "cool" looking bunch of people, it needs authentic Christianity, lived out so that they can connect it with their own need for salvation.

This debate within the SA world is not that important but yet it has huge implications for us. If we change or lose the uniform how will people recognise us? How will we maintain our image? Will individuals lose their identity? For me, this is irrelevant! I don't think that the world cares what we look like on the outside (they have enough to look at already to occupy them). I don't think that what we put on will show them the gospel and make them respond.

It's a difficult issue but not that difficult!

Matt

Not much to say.....very unlike me

Have been feeling very guilty about not blogging for 3 weeks!! But to be honest I don't have an awful lot to say! Those who know me will be aware that this is quite unusual because I am usually the first to jump in with an opinion, insights or witty but unhelpful comments.
I have come to the conclusion that if in doubt saying nothing is rarely an option for Christians. We have a responsibility to not only speak out but live out our faith as if we really mean and believe it. However, we need to be careful and considerate to the places and conversions we may find ourselves in as to the speed of our responses. Saying nothing may not be wise but how quickly or slowly we respond is up for grabs!
I have been challenged about how I will react to situations within the corps and community in Aspley but also at what speed I respond them. To quickly and I may make a bad choice, to slowly and I may miss out on making a positive contribution to peoples decisions and lives.
Not much to say, Well maybe you will have to wait.

Matt