4
The War Cry | MARCH 2015
C
huck Swindoll tells the story of Tex, an unforgettable
character he worked with after graduating from high
school. Tex was a machinist who wore a little gray and white
greasy striped cap and overalls. He seldom had to look at the
clock; he always knew when it was getting close to that last
whistle of the day. At "that time known as quittin' time; he was
always washed up ready to punch out," Swindoll remembers.
On one occasion, Swindoll says, he mentioned to Tex that it
was "about time to start gettin' ready for quittin' time." To that, Tex replied,
"Listen boy, I stay ready to keep from gettin' ready for quittin' time."
It is time to get ready for quittin' time.
Luke writes about Jesus coming again: "There will be signs in the sun, moon
and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring
and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is
coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they
will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When
these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your
redemption is drawing near."
He includes this parable: "Look at the fi g tree and all the trees. When they
sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so,
when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is
near" (Luke 21:25-31).
Jesus is coming again! What began in a humble manger will be completed in
wondrous majesty. When? Nobody knows, not even the angels in heaven. It is
best to follow the example of Tex and stay ready, so we won't have to get ready
for quittin' time.
MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL COMMANDER
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
W
ILLIAM
B
OOTH
FOUNDER
A
NDR�
C
OX
GENERAL
D
AVID
J
EFFREY
NATIONAL COMMANDER
The Salvation Army Territorial Commanders
P
AUL
R. S
EILER
Central Territorial Commander
B
ARRY
S
WANSON
Eastern Territorial Commander
D
ONALD
B
ELL
Southern Territorial Commander
J
AMES
M. K
NAGGS
Western Territorial Commander
The Salvation Army National Publications Department
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National Publication of
T H E S A L V A T I O N A R M Y
MARCH 2O15
Volume 135 | Number 3
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Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken
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E
ven if this March is still quite cold in parts of the United
States, hearts and minds turn to the signs of spring. It is
not surprising to see bright yellow daffodils poke their heads
up fi rst, even with snow on the ground nearby. They seem
irrepressible. And then the buds start forming on tree
branches, soon to bloom into rich green leaves. After looking
at barren, dark branches for months the change could not be
more welcome.
The climate dictates the predictable change of seasons. But unlike those
found in nature, spiritually there are no orderly cycles. Some souls live in
constant summer, enduring the occasional storm. Others seem to be perpetually
stuck in the gloom of winter, a struggle in a place of dim twilight. Most of us
experience changes of season in our soul.
For different reasons, we may endure a wintry season. We remember brighter
times, warmer days. Whether our own actions brought us to this place or
circumstances marshaled against us, our hearts yearn for spring's return.
Fortunately, God makes provision through the Holy Spirit to renew us, bringing
springtime to our hearts. God promises this in Isaiah 40:31: "Those who hope in
the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will
run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (NIV).
If you are wandering in a winter's night, pray to God for the refreshing and
renewing work of His Holy Spirit. Experience God's springtime.