What does it mean to be a Christian citizen?

I am a global citizen, as everywhere I have lived has become my home. What and who I do identify with is Christ. He has remained the same to me in every single place I have landed. He, not the cultures I am surrounded by, has shaped who I am. His Word, His character and His life has shaped my political views, my love for humanity, my heart for social justice and my Christian walk. I am not swayed by the different political leanings of one country or another, I have not pledged my allegiance to one flag over another, nor have I believed that God’s blessing was over one country and not another. As a Christian citizen, my God leads and directs me. I measure what I do and what I believe about this world by God and His Word. I believe strongly that God has a heart for all nations and that is what continues to shape my heart for others. When we become Christian citizens, I believe our heart always turns towards others and God’s heart for them.

By Captain Sandra Pawar
Sydney, Australia

How do I love the body that God gave me? 

I admit that there are still days when I wish the body that I have was smaller or taller or tanner or smoother. But as I’ve grown in the Lord and become more comfortable in my own skin, I’ve learned that beauty is so much bigger than I realized. Figuring out my personal style and learning to dress for my body makes me feel beautiful. Playing around with make-up and trying new skincare products makes me feel beautiful. Drinking enough water and getting in a great walk in the mornings makes me feel beautiful. If I keep those things in mind, I can see past the flaws and find the beauty of what God made when He made me.

By Captain Jamie Spalding
Charlotte, North Carolina

What is the purpose of mission work overseas?

The fundamental purpose of overseas mission work parallels our individual purpose as Christians: to bring honor and glory to God. Part of doing this involves the fulfillment of the great commission of Jesus, to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). The challenge of doing this in culturally appropriate ways requires a great deal of sensitivity and training. We have learned much over the years and now tend to leave the evangelizing and discipling to indigenous Salvation Army Christian leaders best suited for this. We instead provide resources and support wherever possible alongside our partners to help meet their priorities in providing aid and empowerment initiatives specifically designed to create greater independence.

Lt. Colonel Thomas Bowers
Alexandria, Virginia

The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church.

An officer in The Salvation Army is an ordained minister of Christian faith. They dedicate their lives, skills and service completely to God. Submit your question to an officer at peermag.org/contribute