National Volunteer Week

We are celebrating this week!

This year commemorates 150 years of service by The Salvation Army.  From its origins in London, England in 1865, The Salvation Army has been committed to Doing the Most Good to serve those in need.  The Salvation Army New Jersey Division continues this long tradition by seeking to assist residents throughout the state with a wide variety of programs and services.

This week is National Volunteer Week, and we are celebrating service given by our volunteers.  The Salvation Army is using this special week to publicly acknowledge and thank our many volunteers throughout the state.  At The Salvation Army in New Jersey, we not only thank our volunteers during National Volunteer Week but also throughout the year as we recognize the vital role that our volunteers play to help assist almost 200,000 New Jersey residents each year.  The kindness, dedication and commitment of our volunteers to serve needy individuals and families throughout New Jersey is very much appreciated by The Salvation Army as well as the people that are served.  If you are a Salvation Army volunteer, we genuinely thank you for all that you do, as we would not be able to fulfill our mission without your help.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome to volunteer with us! We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities available to suit all ages and skills.  We even have volunteer opportunities to suit corporate, church or school groups.  All we require of our volunteers is a desire to make a difference and a heart to serve those in need.  If you are interested in volunteering with The Salvation Army New Jersey Division, please visit www.salvationarmynj.org/volunteer to view our volunteer opportunities and apply online.

Written by Judth Anderson
Volunteer Resources Manager

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Be a Better Servant

I don't usually make New Year's resolutions, but I've made one this year, and it's to be a better servant. Not just of the Lord but also of those around me - at work, at home, anywhere I go. In preparation, I asked myself, "What does it look like to be a good servant?"

To answer this question, it's natural that we look to Jesus himself, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45 NIV)

We know the greatness of Jesus' character and how He extends Himself to us through the Holy Spirit. And I hope we know how deep His love is for us, so deep that He took it to the cross. But do we know some practical ways that Jesus served others? We can't die on a cross to save souls, but what are some tangible examples that we can apply to our own lives today?

1. When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. (Matthew 14:13-14 NIV)

We, too, can serve strangers when it's inconvenient, when we don't want to or didn't plan to. Jesus sought some well-deserved alone time and was interrupted by scores of people. Not only did He heal the sick, but He also hung around to help feed five thousand! When interruptions happen in our lives, rather than huffing and puffing (which I admit I do), we can be open to servanthood opportunities.

2. Jesus served women by respecting them and not being condescending when others were - like the story in John 8 of the woman caught in adultery. We, too, can serve both women and men by treating all honorably, regardless of what they've done.

3. Jesus washed His disciples feet in John 13, a filthy task that no one wanted to do. Can you think of a task at work or at home that no one wants to do? Do it!

I think, next holiday season, instead of organizing Secret Santas, we should plot to be Secret Servants. Think of how much fun that would be! Like a game of "Who can do the most good?" A game that can bring victory in our relationship with the Lord.

When you help someone out, don’t think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out. (Matthew 6:4 MSG)

When we serve, we not only grow closer to God, we grow to be more like Him!

Servanthood is leadership. When someone serves me, they give me an example of how I can serve others. That example, if I'm turned into it, can lead me to serve.

And what can come of that?

Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 MSG)

The cycle of servanthood to leadership to servanthood changes minds, changes hearts and can change the world.

You might have a new year's resolution of your own, and you don't have to adopt mine, but I would encourage you to consider - How do the people in your life serve you? How can you serve them? How can you serve people whom you've never met?

Written by Elyse Jankowski
Community Relations Associate

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Promoted to Glory

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human need in His name without discrimination. Its structure is para-military. Its clergy are called officers; its members soldiers. Like many other military organizations, much of its terminology is unique to the organization. An example of this is the term, "Promoted to Glory."

Ranks of officers in The Salvation Army are based on years of service. One begins as a Lieutenant; after five years, an officer is "promoted" to the rank of Captain, and, after fifteen years, to the rank of Major. Increased responsibility in leadership may prompt the organization to raise officers to the leadership ranks of Lt.-Colonel, Colonel, and in some cases, Commissioner. Such a promotion would indicate the highest level in Salvation Army service, as the General, who leads The Salvation Army in 126 countries around the world, is elected by his or her peers

There is still another promotion for Salvation Army people, a "promotion to Glory!" This is the term used when a soldier or officer of The Salvation Army dies. It is based on the promises of Scripture which tell us: "No eye has seen, nor ear heard, and no mind has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him." (I Cor. 2: 9); and the Apostle Paul’s witness which is also true for all followers of Christ: "There is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." (II Timothy 4:8).  This final and special promotion is anticipated with joy.

In recent days, our society has been bombarded with the news of the death of two celebrities; Robin Williams and Joan Rivers. Facebook and Twitter have been overwhelmed with tributes to these two well-known Hollywood personalities. Their chosen paths in life has granted them fame and acclaim. Therefore, their deaths have caused such an overwhelming response.

Another death notice crossed my desk at about the same time as the newspapers and televisions were filling our eyes and ears with every detail of the lives of Robin Williams and Joan Rivers. It was the report of a saintly gentleman, a Salvation Army soldier named Edward Gooding. He had lived 93 years and died quietly in his home in Boston, MA, as he had wanted. With grace and dignity he accepted his final promotion, his "promotion to Glory."

In his younger years, Ed Gooding had served as a foreman for the U.S. Navy, working in the Panama Canal Zone. Having accepted Christ as a young man, he migrated to Boston where he displayed great boldness in reaching out to men and women, boys and girls of the Roxbury section of the city with the Christian message.

"People may say that we are overzealous or aggressive," he explained, "but there is a certain responsibility that comes when we have been chosen as an instrument of God."

Gooding’s aggressive evangelism led to his establishment of Boy Scout, Cub Scout, Girl Guard and Sunbeam troops at the local Salvation Army church in Roxbury. He also formed a youth singing group and a brass band

During the turbulent 60's, Gooding and his wife joined the local chapter of the NAACP. They marched in civil rights demonstrations. Despite the prevailing political climate of that era, Gooding continued to connect with those around him. His personal conviction was evident in all his activities.

Again and again he would tell anyone who would listen: "In the final analysis, God is the answer. Only our love for one another will make a difference." Gooding’s gentle persuasion and his faithful witness brought countless Bostonians to new faith in Christ

On August 30, 2014, Edward Gooding was promoted to Glory from his home. There were no newspaper headlines to inform the world of his passing. No television programs were interrupted to tell us of his death. I read no comments on Facebook of Twitter. But I believe there was great rejoicing in Heaven as Edward Gooding marched through Heaven's gates to claim his well-earned reward.

I don't care if I never get the acclaim of Robin Williams or Joan Rivers at my demise. But I pray every day, that God will help me to be as faithful as Edward Gooding in discharging my responsibility of witnessing to the love of God. That's what will live on beyond my passing, and that's what will help me to hear the same greeting that Ed Gooding received at Heaven's gates: "Come, you who are blessed of my Father, take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world." (Matthew 25:33).

Written by Gloria Hohn
Asbury Park Corps

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National Salvation Army Week: May 12-18, 2014

In 1865, William Booth founded The Salvation Army in London, addressing both the physical and spiritual needs of desperate individuals roaming the streets. Fifteen years later in 1880, The Salvation Army began its work in New Jersey. Since then, The Salvation Army New Jersey Division has provided humanitarian relief and spiritual guidance to millions of people across our great state.

The Salvation Army New Jersey Division demonstrates hope and healing in many ways. Those addicted to drugs or alcohol find a network of rehabilitation programs; children born into poverty discover camps and educational opportunities; and those who are lonely and forgotten receive friendly visits and gifts through the year. Our services result in shelter for the homeless, food for the hungry and relief for disaster survivors. The Salvation Army’s commitment to serve is demonstrated daily at our 28 Corps Community Centers, 101 Service Extension Units and through our unwavering support to Hurricane Sandy survivors over 18 months after the storm.

National Salvation Army Week is a time to thank our generous donors and volunteers who allow us to accomplish all that we do. Without your support, we would not be able to provide stellar programs and services statewide. We also thank the Township of Union, City of Newark, City of Camden and City of New Brunswick for issuing proclamations recognizing National Salvation Army Week.

All are welcome to join our National Salvation Army Week luncheon on Monday, May 12th at Ria Mar, 25 Whitehead Avenue in South River. The event will begin at 12:00PM and honor our retired senior volunteers. For tickets, please call New Brunswick Corps at 732-545-1477.

On Tuesday, May 13th, we will honor the women of our Hurricane Sandy Recovery Group in Hazlet. From 9:30AM to 2:30PM, the ladies will get their hair and nails done, and participate in a craft project at our 1444 Hazlet Pavilion office. Lunch will be provided as well as gift bags and photos to memorialize the day. From 3:00PM to 5:00PM, the group will enjoy desserts, coffee and tea at Drew’s Bayshore Bistro.

During this week, I encourage everyone to celebrate The Salvation Army’s 134 years in New Jersey, and join our mission to serve those in need.

Donald E. Berry, Major
Divisional Commander, The Salvation Army New Jersey Division

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Be a Christmas Miracle!

I love working for The Salvation Army!  No one day is ever the same and knowing that on a daily basis we as a team with our volunteers are helping many individuals and families throughout New Jersey with their basic needs.  October is here already and the Christmas countdown is on...only 76 days to Christmas!

Christmas is by far the most busy time for our officers, employees and volunteers at The Salvation Army.  Unfortunately for some, the holiday season can mean unmanageable expenses, disappointed children and empty stomachs.  Every November and December, people across the United States see The Salvation Army wearing its most public face, reminding everyone that we answer the needs of families who need food, shelter, and clothing, and not only at this most special season but throughout the year.  Thousands of families are in need in the New Jersey area and come to The Salvation Army so they can make Christmas a memorable season for their children.

There are many ways in which you can partner with us this year to help spread holiday cheer and help those less fortunate:

§  Sponsor a toy drive – The Christmas season can be especially difficult for the needy who often cannot afford to celebrate Christmas by giving their children presents.  In an effort to provide these families with holiday cheer The Salvation Army implemented its Angel Tree program to provide Christmas presents to children who would otherwise go without.  You can help by organizing a toy drive to benefit The Salvation Army Angel Tree program.  We also have opportunities available for you to Adopt A Family in your local area.

§  Sponsor a food drive – You can make a real impact on hunger in New Jersey by organizing a canned food drive to benefit Salvation Army pantries.  There are many ways you can structure a drive.  You can opt for the tried and true techniques, like holding competitions at work or have everyone fill a paper bag approach.  Or choose less conventional routes like creating a theme, or throwing a party and asking employees or friends to bring a food item to gain admission.

§  Be a bell ringer – Volunteer to staff a Salvation Army Red Kettle at one of our many locations.  Our kettle stands are staffed Monday through Saturday from early November to Christmas Eve.  Individuals and groups are needed for at least a 3 hour shift.  Organize a group at your church, school, college, company, service club etc and commit to staffing the kettle for a whole day.

Helping The Salvation Army is an ideal way to give back to your community.  It also encourages fellowship, unity, awareness and philanthropy.   Why not give some of your time this Christmas season to help a local family in need?

For more information on how you can get more involved and help us help others this Christmas season please visit www.salvationarmynj.org/christmas.

Written by Judith Anderson

Volunteer Resources Manager

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Volunteering Fore The Salvation Army

On Tuesday September 24, The Salvation Army’s State Advisory Board will be hosting their third annual Golf Outing at Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township, NJ.  Proceeds from this event will be used to help The Salvation Army in the completion of The Kroc Center, a transformative community project that will help revitalize the city of Camden.

This event is sure to be a fun-filled day for both golfers and volunteers.  Are you not a golfer but want to help make a difference in Camden?  Consider volunteering at the event!  Volunteers are needed to help with registration, throughout the course, setting up for lunch and the evening reception.  Why not sign up to support an event that we know will change lives in Camden once completed?  For more information about The Salvation Army’s Kroc Center in Camden, visit http://www.camdenkroccenter.org 

Interested in volunteering at this event or want to learn more about our volunteer opportunities throughout New Jersey?  E-mail NJVolunteers@use.salvationarmy.org

Written by Judith Anderson

Volunteer Resources Manager

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Commit to Submit

If Dr. Seuss were to write a book about families, it might begin like this... 

"One kid, two kids, three kids, no kids.

Families Big; Families Small
Families Short; Families Tall
Quiet Families; Loud Families
Crazy families; Serious Families" 

Families come in all shapes and sizes and have all kinds of personalities, and all of us who live for Jesus are members of God's Family.

"Lord, make my family beautiful." That’s a prayer I regularly pray. My prayer means that I want each member of my family to love God more than anyone or anything else. I know that if each of us love God like that, we will act more and more like him and our family will increase in His likeness and characteristics of love, grace, peace, honesty, forgiveness, support and joy. 

I believe that God wants all of us to have beautiful families that reflect Him. I believe that God has the power to make and keep each of our families beautiful. And I believe God wants that for our church family too!

One thing that every family member must do to make and keep their family beautiful is submit to one another. The Bible tells says in Ephesians 5:21, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ."

This is a direct command of Scripture for every believer. If you are a Christian, you are to submit to God with a motivation that comes out of deep respect and honor for Christ and what he has done for you. This kind of submission is a voluntary attitude of giving in. It is not forced. It is acting in a spirit of cooperation with God. Throughout Scripture, the submissive life is taught:

Luke 22:26 "...the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." 

Romans 12:10 "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."

Phil 2:3 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourself." 

Bryan Wilkerson in his published sermon entitled "In God We Trust" shared this illustration and application about submission... 

"Taylor University is a Christian college in Indiana. Years ago, they were pleased to learn that an African student, Sam, was going to be enrolling in their school. This was before it was commonplace for international students to come to the U.S. to study. He was a bright young man with great promise, and the school felt honored to have him. When he arrived on campus, the President of the University took him on a tour, showing him all the dorms. When the tour was over, the President asked Sam where he would like to live. The young man replied, 'If there is a room that no one wants, give that room to me.' The President turned away in tears. Over the years he had welcomed thousands of Christian men and women to the campus, and none had ever made such a request"

Can you imagine the impact Christians would have on the world if we all submitted like Sam? What if Christians were to say...

If there's a job that no one wants to do, I'll do that job.

If there's a student that no one wants to eat lunch with, I'll eat with him.

If there's a piece of toast that's burnt, let me take that piece.

If there's a parking space that's far away from the church, I'll park in that space.

If there's a service time that's less convenient for me but better for others, I'll worship at that service.

That's the kind of submission that we are talking about. I like the way The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia sums up submission: "The general attitude that is to mark every Christian in relation to God, to other Christians, and to civil authorities is one of readiness to renounce one's will for the sake of the Others."

Jesus gave up heaven for 33 years and came to earth covered in human flesh. He submitted himself to God's plan to become a human sacrifice to take the punishment for our sins. His submission included betrayal by friends, an unlawful trial by authorities, physical torture, humiliation, and separation from God for a period of time.

Jesus knew that his submission was paving the only possible road for sinful men to find their way to God, and he was willing to do whatever God asked of him to make that possible. When Jesus submitted to God's will in the Garden of Gethsemane and said, "...not my will but thine be done," he was saying, "It’s not about me, Lord. It's totally all about you and what you want."

How many of us have included something like that in our prayers recently? Submission is also how God designed the Christian family and the church to function. It is what sets us apart from the world and the world's "It's all about me" attitude. (Ephesians 5:22- 6:9)

The world teaches people to seek first place; Jesus says that the first shall be last.  The world teaches people that they must purchase the latest and greatest gadget; God teaches us that it is better to give than receive. The world teaches people not to associate with the marginalized; Jesus said, "Whatever you have done for the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me."

God designed the family and church to function differently than the world! And we cannot obey God and function like the world. It doesn’t work that way. Jesus said, "My Kingdom is not of this World." (John 19:36)

Christians are to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ in every aspect of their lives. In addition, the Bible teaches that submission includes the specific duty of...

Wives submitting to their husband's leadership and wives respecting their husbands.

Of husbands submitting to their wives by loving them with the same tenderness and sacrificial love that Christ showed the church - a love to the death.

Of children submitting to their parents by obeying and honoring them.

Parents submitting to their children by taking the time to train them in the Lord and doing it with the same tenderness, mercy and grace God uses to train us.

Of students submitting to their teachers by respecting them, following their instructions, and working hard on their assignments.

Of teachers submitting to their students by treating them with respect, and not showing favoritism among them.

The body of Christ is made up of different parts. Christ is the head, and each of us is a Holy Spirit-gifted member of the body. The body of Christ consists of teachers, workers, healers, givers, those who show mercy, those who serve, those who preach, leaders, those who prophesy, shepherds and more. Just like our physical body is made up of different parts and all parts are required to work as a team to function well, each part of our church body must submit itself to the other parts of the body to function well. (I Corinthians 12:12-29)

If my brain sends a message to my hand to pick something up, and my hand ignores the message, the work is not accomplished. If my eye tries to start doing the work of my heart, it fails and loses sight of its original function. Have you ever tried to pick something up with your toes? While it is possible to pick some things up with your toes, it takes a lot more time, energy, and concentration to do it. If we as the body of Christ are unwilling to work with one another by submitting to the giftedness that God has given to each of us, we will not accomplish anything for his Kingdom. Submission is the oil that keeps the family and the body of Christ running the way God designed it: in reflection of Him. 

What would a Seuss book about your church family reveal about your level of submission to one another? Submission is not part of our human nature, but it is definitely a mark that the Spirit of God is alive and working in us.

When we commit to submit to one another, we are obeying the Bible, imitating Jesus, and following God's design for our family and church community.

The result is a beautiful family of love, peace, honesty, forgiveness, grace, support and joy. 

When we are not submitting, we're not acting any differently than the world around us and our impact for God is ruined. 

COMMIT TO SUBMIT SURVEY

Ephesians 5:21 

(Directions: Please fill in all the blanks that pertain to you.)

ALL BELIEVERS:  My level of putting the interests of others (without exclusion) above my own interests, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a ______.

CHILDREN:  My level of honor toward my parents and my level of obedience to them, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a ______.

PARENTS:  My level of taking the time to train my children in the Lord and my level of training them with the same tenderness, mercy, and grace God uses to train me, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a ______.

TEACHERS/SUPERVISORS/BOSSES: My level of treating my students/fellow employees/employees with respect and without favoritism, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a ______.

STUDENTS:  My level of following my teacher's instructions and working hard on my assignments, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a ______.

WIVES:  My level of submitting to my husband's headship and my level of respect for him, on a scale of 1 to 10, is a _____.

HUSBANDS:  My level of loving my wife with the same tenderness and sacrificial love that Christ showed to the church, on a scale of 1-10, is a _____. 

As a result of my submission score/scores above, I realize where my commitment to submission stands, and I believe God wants me to...

Written by Major Cheriann Stoops

Asbury Park Corps

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How YOU Can Change a Life

For over 130 years, The Salvation Army in New Jersey has been fighting the battle to meet the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of many local residents. Our 28 Corps Community Centers, 137 Service Units, Adult Rehabilitation Centers, Shelters and Residential Camp all provide a wide array of programs and services to New Jersey residents. Our work throughout these years would not have been possible without the kindness and generosity of thousands of volunteers who have partnered with us to help with our mission - "to meet human needs His name without discrimination."

Nicky Gumbel, vicar at HTB Church in England recently said, "As people tap into their own generous human spirit and share kindness with one another, they discover for themselves the power of kindness to effect positive change, both in their lives and in the lives of people around them. When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished, and people are inspired to pass it on."
 

Consider volunteering for The Salvation Army New Jersey Division! Join us in our mission to serve those in need, and help us to nourish our local communities by showing kindness to those in need. Visit our website at www.salvationarmynj.org/volunteer to view our range of volunteer opportunities and apply online. You never know - your one act of kindness could change a person's day or even transform their life!

Written by Judith Anderson
Volunteer Resources Manager

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Celebrating National Salvation Army Week

This year's 60th annual National Salvation Army Week celebrates volunteers and donors who have made The Salvation Army one of the world's largest and most trusted charities.

Each year, we use this week to say thank you to the three million volunteers who give of their time and talents to The Salvation Army and enable critical services to communities, families and individuals in need. If you can believe it, that's 8,000 volunteers "Doing the Most Good" for their neighbors each day!

"Not only is National Salvation Army Week a time of thanks, it's also a time for new volunteers and donors to join our important mission," said Judith Anderson, Volunteer Resources Manager. "In addition, this time of year is typically when giving decreases but the need for Salvation Army services increases. Any extra help we can get right now will have a big impact."

Join the army behind the Army for Clean Up Day at Camp Tecumseh! Email njvolunteers@use.salvationarmy.org ASAP if interested/available! Click flyer to enlarge:

For more information on volunteering with The Salvation Army New Jersey Division, visit salvationarmynj.org/volunteer

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Helping Hands Making a Difference

One day, a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a figure in the distance. As he got closer, he realized the figure was that of a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean.

Approaching the boy, he asked, "What are you doing?"

The youth replied, "Throwing the starfish into the ocean. Soon, the sun will be up and the tide is going out. If I do not throw them back, they will die."

"Son," the man said, "Don't you realize that there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You cannot possibly make a difference!"

After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it into the surf.

Then, smiling at the man, he said, "I made a difference for that one!"

A simple act of kindness can make a difference. Whoever you are. Wherever you are. You can make a difference. 

It's National Volunteer Week, and throughout the United States, numerous non-profits are using this special week to thank their volunteers. At The Salvation Army in New Jersey, we not only thank our volunteers during National Volunteer Week but also throughout the year as we recognize the vital role that they play to help support the programs and services that we provide throughout the state. The kindness, dedication and commitment of our volunteers to serve needy individuals and families throughout New Jersey is very much appreciated by The Salvation Army as well as the people that are served.

Everyone is welcome to volunteer with us! We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities available to suit all ages and skills. All we require is a desire to make a difference and a heart to serve those in need.  If you are interested in volunteering with us, please visit www.salvationarmynj.org/volunteer to view our volunteer opportunities and apply online.

Written by Judith Anderson

Volunteer Resources Manager

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One Year with Christ: Lessons Learned and What Has Changed

This morning, I heard birds chirping for the first time since moving into my apartment in September. You know what that means - Spring is right around the corner, so summer will soon follow! This July will mark two years since I became a Christian. As a "newbie" to faith, I've been keeping track of Jesus' transforming work in my life and was just reminded of a "first year recap" I wrote last summer. Whether you're a new Christian like me or have been walking with Christ for years, see if you can identify with the lessons I've learned. How has the Lord changed you?

Top 3 Lessons Learned

1. Following Christ doesn't mean life gets easier

I started reading the Bible "backwards," meaning New Testament first. I was really excited to learn about who Jesus is and what he did during his time here on Earth. In the four Gospels, I read about Jesus' miracles and healings and thought, "Alright! Sign me up. I could use a miracle in my life!"

Pretty quickly, I learned there’s a lot more to it! In Matthew 16:24, Jesus says to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

Deny myself? That doesn't sound fun, and for me, it means to put aside my selfish wants and desires, most of which would be considered "worldly" – like money and clothes – things that the world tells us we should want because they're supposed keys to fulfillment. Spoiler alert: They're not! In reality, placing my heart on Christ instead of trying to please myself with nonsense is the true key to fulfillment. He is my joy, not the world and not myself.

Taking up my cross is Jesus' way of flat-out saying, "This ain’t gonna be easy." It's also a reminder of the cross of Christ, his crucifixion, and how any suffering I endure as a result of following him will be nowhere near as agonizing as what he experienced to save me.

While following Jesus is a tough road that I inevitably wander off of, I'm thankful that he always welcomes me back.


2. I don't have to live in shame or fear

Over the past year, I've learned that I live in shame and fear a lot. Shame from bad decisions I've made, like hurting people, and fear of the future – Will I get that new job? Can I afford that apartment? What if all my plans don't work out?

In the past, those feelings would really eat away at me. I'd go through days, sometimes weeks, of self-loathing, depression and anxiety. I didn't know that there was a God who would take all of that away from me.

In my small group, we started reading 1 John, and 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Now, because I'm walking with Christ, I know that when I start to feel guilty about something, I can and should immediately bring it to him rather than let shame eat away at me. There is power in repentance. When I release a sin to Jesus in prayer, it's like a weight has been lifted off me. I can't describe the incredible feeling of freedom, but I can recommend that you seek it from him!

As far as fear, I really love Psalm 56:3-4, which says, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?"

When I start to feel shame or get scared of something, God invites me to come to him. Trusting him means knowing that fear has no hold on me. Like the Psalmist said, "What can flesh do to me?" What can I be afraid of when I have the Lord on my side? Nothing! There is also power in peace, which I always find when I release my fears to God.


3. Christianity isn't just about what you do; it’s about why you do it

What I mean by this lesson is that life with Christ isn't just about the good work or deeds you do; it's about being guided by your faith in him.

James 2:14:18 says, "What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds.' Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds."

When you're Christian, there's a relationship between deeds and faith. Before knowing Christ, I certainly did some good deeds, but I usually did them for the wrong reason – to inflate myself, to make myself look good. But doing good works with faith gives God the glory he deserves. Taking the spotlight off me and shining it on him not only opens people's hearts to the grace of God, it helps cultivate the relationship I have with him. 


What Has Changed

1. How I think

Before learning about Jesus, I used to think that some sins, like cursing and gossiping, were totally ok to do. In most cases, everyone else around me was doing them. But let me be clear – I am not placing blame on my friends or anyone else for decisions I’ve made. Because I deemed those things acceptable, my actions followed.

If I got in an argument with someone, I would use derogatory names and curse words to put them down. 1 Peter 3:10-12 says, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech."

I didn't keep my tongue from evil because I just didn't care. I didn't see cursing at someone as a bad thing because it made me feel like a stronger person in that moment. Now, I try to keep my lips at bay and think before I speak. I have no right to tear anyone down and inflate myself.

Which brings me to gossip. Ladies, you know how women can be. And gentlemen, this doesn't mean you're off the hook either! When people around you start gossiping about someone, it's really easy to jump in, right? When I used to gossip (and I still struggle with this!), I would feel a false sense of joy from talking bad about someone. It made me feel better about myself, and it made me feel like I was more of a friend to the person or people also gossiping.

James 4:11 says, "Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it."

This verse is saying that if we speak ill of someone, we're also speaking ill of God and disobeying his command to love. Being a Christian, I want to show obedience to God in every way, including trying to not gossip, because I love and respect him and thus should love and respect everyone he's created.

Now that I've been a Christian for a year, I recognize sin as sin – thoughts and actions that separate me from God – and I make conscious efforts to stop myself from engaging in them.


2. How I feel

I used to feel like life was all about me. Now, I feel God working in me daily to pull me out of my selfish desires. That's not to say I never give into selfishness, because I still do! But I know and feel that my life is to be lived for him, not for me.

I also feel pain from following Christ (which he tells us to expect) because I care about people more than I ever have. And when you're vulnerable with your heart, you can get hurt. I need to remember to put my faith in God and not in people, because we will inevitably let each other down, intentionally or unintentionally. But I know that Jesus will never let me down.


3. How I act

I would have never chosen to use 3-4 days a week to serve and spend time with others before knowing Christ's love. My time was MY time, and I spent it doing what I wanted to do. Now, what I want to do is serve, because I see the blessings that come from it.

In conclusion, following Christ over the past year has profoundly changed who I am and how I relate to other people. It's important to note that as much as I try to run from sin, I am still a sinner. But before knowing God's love, I was just that. Now, I'm a sinner redeemed. I am blessed, loved, chosen, forgiven and free. I can't tell you how incredible that feels, but I can encourage you to discover it for yourself in Jesus!

Written by Elyse Jankowski
Community Relations Associate

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A Volunteer Army

Malachi 3:18 And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.

The Salvation Army, founded in 1865, maintains a strong presence in New Jersey as we constantly strive to meet the wide and varied needs of our residents.  Every year, hundreds of volunteers who are dedicated to make a difference in their local communities partner with The Salvation Army New Jersey Division at our 28 Corps Community Centers, 137 Service Units, residential and day camps, Emergency Disaster Services Program etc.  Our volunteers are often fondly referred to as "the army behind The Army," recognizing the crucial role that our volunteers play in The Salvation Army’s ability to provide quality social services changing lives in every community throughout the State.

Ranging from volunteering at our food pantries or soup kitchens; administrative help; tutoring; mentoring; disaster response; bell-ringing, distributing toys, organizing food drives The Salvation Army has a wide range of volunteer opportunities to suit everyone’s age, interest, availability and skill.

I am thankful for the generosity and dedication of so many New Jersey residents as well as volunteers from throughout the US, who have recognized the great work that we do and have rallied behind us to partner for our Sandy relief efforts.  Over 100 days have passed and the need still exists! The Salvation Army is often the first to arrive and the last agency to leave, ensuring we have done all we can to meet survivors' needs.  Extra volunteers are needed almost daily to help with our Sandy relief effort.

Extra volunteers are also needed for our year-round and seasonal programs.  Those interested should visit www.salvationarmynj.org/volunteer to view our current volunteer opportunities and complete our online application form or email NJVolunteers@use.salvationarmy.org

Written by Judith Anderson
Volunteer Resources Manager

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Hurricane Sandy: The Salvation Army Serving New Jersey

The Salvation Army New Jersey is dedicated to the long-term needs of Hurricane Sandy survivors. For more information, visit http://www.salvationarmynj.org

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HIS World: Flowers Grow in the City

Batty Hattie, they call her, as she waits in line for the hot food from our soup van's serving window. "Crazy as a loon …..and a thief too." That's what they say about her to our workers who visit the streets of the city nightly.

She wears dated but dressy church hats from the thrift shop. The kind you see on older matriarchs as they go to Ebenezer Baptist on Sunday...Except these have street dirt and years of dust layered on the felt and satin ribbon. Along with her tattered man's sport coat, ("big pockets"), they form her street clothes ensemble.

"Gave up her own children, so she could walk around the streets talking to herself and screaming at the passing cars" the street wise said, "Don't mess with her" "She'll cut you soon as she looks at you" they warned us when she first started coming around, "Threw her out of the psycho ward for threatening the doctors."

"Where do you sleep?" one of our staff ask her when she didn't list an address on the meal sheet. No answer, just the vacant stare of one who is somewhere else...Somewhere you can't touch her with your words.

One night while she was getting her helping of rice, stew and vegetables, gravy splashed onto her hand. Volunteer Carol quickly took her hand and gently wiped the warm gravy from her knuckles and wrist. Their eyes met and somewhere, from that distant place, her eyes lit with the warmth of a human touch. "Thank you," spoke a soft quiet voice that none of us had ever heard from Hattie. Wise beyond her 28 years, volunteer Carol smiled and said, "You’re very welcome, Hattie...Can we sit down and just talk?"

That's how we got to actually see Hattie's place - In the midst of cracked cement walks and the mud lawns of the projects that hadn't seen grass in years, there was a somewhat, still slightly-white, little piece of dollar store fence that bordered a tiny garden. No food growing (it wouldn't last till it was ripe in that neighborhood), just flowers crowded between the building wall and the cement curb of the dumpster. Nothing you'd see at the Home and Garden Expo. No, their beauty far exceeds pampered, sheltered "miracle grow" blossoms; for they reflect the beauty of a soul that, though hidden, will not die, and somehow still clings to memories of beauty.

I wish I could tell you that Hattie has turned her life around, become an upstanding citizen, a "success" story, but I cannot. In a crowd, she still gets the little "Right of way path" of a "crazy woman;" still dines, sidewalk café, at the Army van.

But she has found a place where she can sit down for a few moments, let the wildness fade from her eyes and talk to another human being. She lets us touch, gently; the soul that still lives deep inside nourished by a small patch of beauty next to a dumpster.

We pray that the food of the soul, given in the form of Christ-like love, will blossom someday into a new creation in her life. Until then, we talk, pray, and serve meat with gravy over rice...in faith.

Written by Major Charles Kelly
Spiritual Formation Officer
Men's Fellowship Officer

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