Five year review
This past week, 12 Officers hailing from the Messengers of The Gospel session came together for their 5 year review that was held in Johannesburg. They gathered together to engage in a period of introspection, retrospection, challenge, encouragement, and spiritual empowerment, as they stand on the threshold of completing five-years of service as Officers of The Salvation Army.
In conversations with several of the Messengers of The Gospel, they collectively expressed their experience during the review as refreshing, encouraging, and deeply challenging. Lieutenant Thandeka Khumalo described her experience as a source of rejuvenation and inspiration. Lieutenant Khumalo resolved never to neglect her spiritual well-being, no matter how demanding or fast-paced life and ministry become, recognizing it as the essential sustenance that fuels her ability to serve God effectively.
Lieutenant Makhosi Mdluli expressed how valuable she found the sessions, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, a deep understanding of The Word, and avoiding hindrances to God’s blessings through personal choices and behaviour. It challenged her to step beyond her comfort zone and remain open to God’s disruptions. Lieutenant Owen Mutize described the review as ‘moments of spiritual nourishment and tank filling’ appreciating the opportunity to pause and engage in deep self-reflection during the review.
We give thanks to God for the work He has accomplished during the review with the Messengers of The Gospel. As they depart from this experience, they leave with renewed spirits, newfound encouragement, and a strong determination to continue to impact the world for Christ!