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Applications for officership are on the increase.
by Nancy Dihle, Major –
The Western Territory is experiencing increases in the number of applications received for officership. Why are we seeing this increase now? There are several possible explanations, including simple reasons such as positive corps officer involvement in people’s lives and mission opportunities that soldiers are experiencing more regularly.
It also could be that more people are responding to the call and the need. In many ways, a mission experience allows people to see the world through Jesus’ eyes. Matthew 9:35-38 notes, “Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. ‘What a huge harvest!’ he said to his disciples. ‘How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!’” (The Message).
We live in a world that is fractured. Our nation is struggling for survival. One only needs to look at a news magazine or newspaper to see the tremendous need. The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to allow officers to give not only spiritual direction but to be a community liaison that points society to a Christ who can change their world.
For the 2008 Prayer Warriors Session, we have approximately 40 applications in process. Not all will be at the college this year. For some, issues from the past require attention. For others, improving basic skills and strengthening English language proficiency will be necessary.
However, we believe in the sovereignty of God and know that he will provide what the Army needs to continue its work. What we need is for people to respond quickly when God places a clear call on their lives.