Reach Out to a Salvation Army Person Today!

Have you reached out to a Salvation Army Soldier today?


I was walking into Stop & Shop on Wednesday night, when I spotted 2 Salvation Army "volunteers".  One, a woman was ringing the bell behind the donation kettle, while the other, a man-stood by.  I'm not sure why, but I HAD to stop, put some money in the collection kettle, and ask them this question:  What can you tell me about salvation?  I wasn't prepared for their response.


The woman looked at the man, and the man looked at the woman and smiled, then me and smiled.  He then went on to tell me that " Salvation comes through Jesus Christ-the Son of God alone".


God is SO good to me!  I love it when He throws me a bone!


Going back a few years, I know of Brothers in Christ who have witnessed to Salvation Army Volunteers. These volunteers accepted Jesus as their savior in front of department stores, or on the streets of NY and Long Island.  Apparently, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is not a prerequisite to sit behind the collection kettles around Christmas Time.  As a matter of fact, here's what The Salvation Army's website states about their core beliefs:


Salvation


The Salvation Army was founded as an evangelical organization dedicated to bringing people into a meaningful relationship with God through Christ. Its doctrinal basis is that of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. It is composed of persons who are united by the love of God and man, and who share the common purpose of bringing others to Jesus Christ. The word salvation indicates the overall purpose of the organization—to motivate all people to embrace the salvation provided to them in Christ.


The word army indicates that the organization is a fighting force, constantly at war with the powers of evil. Battles are effectively waged through an integrated ministry that gives attention to both body and spirit. It is a total ministry for the total person. The Army cooperates with churches of all denominations to meet the needs of the community. Those who have drifted away from God and those estranged from their own religious affiliations are often attracted to The Salvation Army.They are first urged to seek Christ for pardon and deliverance from sin. Then they are encouraged to return to active membership in their


Active Service


Christianity is synonymous with service for the Salvationist. The distinguishing feature in the religious life of The Salvation Army is active participation by its members.


Corps community centers are the focus of the spiritual work and are organized in a military manner, using military terms throughout. The corps building is sometimes known as the “citadel.” The pastor serves as an “officer.” Members are “soldiers.” This sphere of activity is known as the “field.” Instead of joining The Salvation Army, members are “enrolled” after signing the “Articles of War.” When officers and soldiers die, they are “Promoted to Glory.”


Soldiers are disciples of Jesus Christ and are expected to accept responsibility in the work of The Salvation Army. Whenever possible, they participate in Army meetings. Soldiers may teach Sunday-school classes, play musical instruments, join the band, assist the corps officer in visitation among the poor and sick, or aid in general social work. Soldiers abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages, drugs and tobacco.


Here's what their website states about their "Volunteers": 


From its inception, The Salvation Army has relied heavily on volunteers who support it's programs.
Often referred to as "the army behind The Army," volunteers play a crucial role The Salvation Army's ability to provide quality social services for the entire community.


Volunteers are valuable assets in The Salvation Army's efforts to meet the changing needs of our world. Through the skills and experience they bring to The Army, volunteers make significant contributions to society by positively impacting the lives of those they assist. Salvation Army volunteers change lives, uplift families and support communities throughout our nation everyday.


Discover the joy of giving back to your community: become a Salvation Army volunteer TODAY! Thank you for exploring the many opportunities to help those in need and enhance your community as a volunteer within The Salvation Army.

I always ask these volunteers to tell me about Salvation.  If they can't, I witness to them and ask them if they have a personal relationship with Jesus.  Hopefully, the words that God gives me won't fall on deaf ears.

When you see these men and women working, ask them to tell you about salvation.  God may open a door to be used by Him to bring someone into the kingdom, or He may use one of these volunteers to encourage you!

If you have testimonies, please feel free to share them as comments on this blog post.

I'm waiting for some AMEN's and Hallelujah's!!!!

...and don't forget to correct them if they say "Happy Holidays" to you.  Enough is enough already!