Gary Grant

These are very interesting days in The Salvation Army in Australia.  Some, I have heard, are struggling with the changes, and whilst I get that, because change isn't at all easy for any of us at times, it nevertheless is critical to our ongoing viability as a movement of God. As soon as I start writing my thoughts and feelings here, one way or the other, I know that it will alienate a group of people, and that isn't my intent.  So if that is you, I apologise, but would you please just read on and try and see what I am getting at. I have been a Salvo all my life, I was born into it...I am currently 57 years of age, so that means I have been a Salvo for 57 years.  When I was around 15 years I became a Soldier to go into uniform and play in the band at Perth Fortress. A lot of us did that, and it was a ritual for some of us, a means to an end.  A way of conformity if you like.  As my life went through my teen years, I was involved in the same ...

There is a balm in Gilead, To make the wounded whole; There is a balm in Gilead, To heal the sin-sick soul. Some times I feel discouraged, And think my work’s in vain, But then the Holy Spirit Revives my hope again. (Chorus) If you can’t preach like Peter, If you can’t pray like Paul, Just tell the love of Jesus, And say He died for all. (Chorus) Don't ever feel discouraged, 'Cause Jesus is your friend, And if you lack for knowledge, He'll never fail to lend. This morning in my quiet time I was reading Joshua 13, and Gilead was mentioned, and straight away I was drawn back many years of my life..to when I was young and playing in the Perth Fortress Band...and the arrangement was put on the stand of this beautiful old hymn.  I am ever so grateful for my heritage and history at Perth Fortress, for the people there that shaped my life and introduced me to Jesus. Sometimes I do feel discouraged, and sometimes I am aware of my sin sick soul... and sometimes I am aware tha...