what's the point?

i've been reflecting lately on what the point is. of anything, really? my school is discussing merger, my denomination is confusing me . . . so the question is, "why exist?" ok, the questions are: what is the purpose behind existing as a distinct entity? shouldn't we have a distinct mission? who defines that mission? surely we shouldn't exist for a lack of anything better to do? if there are other bible colleges or churches or groups doing the same thing we are, we have to clarify our call. i would assume that might involve prayer.

i haven't run this by william booth yet, but in my view the salvation army should exist primarily as a body of believers reaching out to those who are poor, addicted, jailed, and disadvantaged. "soup, soap, and salvation", right? are we doing that? 'cause other churches do a great job of worship and kids programs and so on. our niche - from our inception - was not in the suburbs, but in the ghettos. down and dirty.

now, i'm no fool (i hope!). i know times have changed. you can't stick a preacher and a cornet player down at 4th street and 7th ave and expect a revolution. but not everything's changed, has it? how much is "keeping up with the times" and how much is comfort?

keep praying for the army, friends.