“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
In 1865, William Booth was in the East End of London, preaching to crowds of people in the streets. Outside The Blind Beggar Public House some missioners heard him speaking and were so impressed by his preaching that they invited him to lead a series of meetings they were holding in a large tent.
Booth preached to the poor and destitute of London's East End and realized his calling was to preach to the poor.
He established the Christian Mission and from that ministry, the Salvation Army came forth.
In the early 1880s, operations were extended to other countries, notably the United States, France, Switzerland, Sweden and others, including to most of the countries of the British Empire: Australia, Canada, India, South Africa, New Zealand, Jamaica, etc.
During his lifetime, William Booth established Salvation Army work in 58 countries and colonies, travelling extensively and holding, "salvation meetings."
In 1899, Booth was having difficulty with his eyes. His son Bramwell had the difficult task of telling his father that he would not recover.
“Do you mean that I am blind?” the General asked.
“I fear we must contemplate that,” his son Bramwell replied.
The father continued, “I shall never see your face again?”
“No, probably not in this world” answered the son.
“Bramwell,” said General Booth, “I have done what I could for God and for His people with my eyes. Now Shall do what I can for God without my eyes.”
And for the next 12 years until his death, William Booth continued to lead the Salvation Army and serve the Lord.
The Lord has chosen us to serve Him and to lead others to His throne of Grace. Today in prayer, give praise to the Lord who called you out of darkness.
“God does not always choose great people to accomplish what He wishes, but He chooses a person who is wholly yielded to Him.” – Henrietta Mears
God’s Word: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail
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