I have been following with interest the progress of The Salvation Army’s 18th High Council, currently in session for the purpose of discerning and electing its next international leader(s). Five nominees – Commissioners Cox, Hodder, Knaggs, Krommenhoek and Swanson – have accepted nominations by their peers and are no doubt prayerfully considering their responses at this time. Let us uphold them each and their families in prayer.
In reading the daily reports from the High Council along with the various related posts and blogs, the awareness of a spirit of unity amongst those participating in this process is evident and in fact was the focus of the Council’s devotions on Day 3 of the proceedings.
There’s a well-known saying that says, ‘United we stand, divided we fall’, the sentiment being that the collective strength, wisdom, capacity, influence and maturity of the group is greater than that of any one individual and as such can determine the success or otherwise of the cause.
Jesus himself said, ‘…every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.’ (Matthew 12:25)
The spirit of unity extends beyond the walls of the council chamber, and can be witnessed through the weekly world wide prayer meetings as well as the personal prayers and faithful service of many within the movement. It is something to be celebrated, to be cultivated in all circumstances and extended to others within the body of Christ.
Let us be united in spirit, one in His Spirit at this significant time.
I am in prison because I belong to the Lord. Therefore I urge you who have been chosen by God to live up to the life to which God called you. Always be humble, gentle, and patient, accepting each other in love. You are joined together with peace through the Spirit, so make every effort to continue together in this way. (Ephesians 4:1-3 NCV)
Life is a Journey 
Well said. Important also is that these potential leaders have not succumbed to the potent temptation of dividing their own organization pursuing supporters of their own nomination. A leader’s chief role is to ensure the unity of an organization as it pursues a common goal, and each of these individuals proves themselves a leader by their abstinence from such behavior. It’s good to see that, for it is rare indeed in organizations today, even those of a Christian stamp.
James, thanks for your thoughts. Daniel