shifting perspectives

"In all educational effort, keep constantly before you the end you have in view, that is, to make your children Saints and Soldiers of Christ." William Booth

I just learned that the Bangor corps recently rededicated the building, relaying it's corner stone. The original engraving said "Dedicated to the glory of God and the Service of mankind".
It now reads "Dedicated to the Glory of God and the Salvation of the world, starting in Bangor."

This is a huge shift in perspective. Too often we in the army would rather service people, than see people saved. It is much easier and less messy to prepare to meet the physical needs of individuals rather than digging down to the root of the issue, chopping out the bad root, and grafting the remaining good stuff onto a firm and secure root in Jesus.

Here's another analogy; Take the example of medication. You go to the doctor because you're experiencing symptoms that tell you you're not well. Unhealthy bodies usually come from unhealthy lifestyles, or a predisposition to ill-health. You can medicate the symptoms in increasing measure so that you are numb to the fact that you are still sick, or you can choose to change your whole lifestyle and start living right again.
Spiritually speaking, it's not much of a suprise to see that we are unhealthy. We were created to worship God, yet too easily we lose focus on Him who we were created to worship, and would prefer to fix our gaze on ourselves. The shift from self to God is the first step to proper health.
("Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His Glory and Grace")

You can't look at something without seeing it for what it is. When you look at Jesus, things start to fall into their proper perspective. He starts speaking to you, sharing things with you that need to change. After that, it is a choice whether or not you choose to follow him or not.
(Doctor's orders....now take up your mat AND WALK)