by Colonel Evie Diaz
I finished 2019 with this prayer: I want to live life with kindness and in the promise of God’s Kingdom here on earth as it is in Heaven.
I had no idea what 2020 would bring, but I am grateful for God’s Word to me in preparation for it. There are many lessons I have learned while serving as the Chief Secretary at International Headquarters.
God loves the world. More than ever, I know this to be true. I saw Him at work during 2020, especially through His people and His Salvation Army. His kindness is exhibited in so many ways.
The Salvation Army is a generous Army, reflected in the financial support provided for COVID-19 projects. The Central Territory has been part of that generosity, and I am proud of and thankful for you. Our Army also is generous in its prayer support for the world. Through social media, prayer requests have been shared and prayers offered around the world and for our world. God has been listening and at work. His Kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven.
It is my privilege to support our international leaders. What a blessing it has been to see the General and Army leaders adjust to the limits of this pandemic. The increased use of social media to inspire Salvationists has been significant. Online global conferences and interaction through the internet has been incredible. The Army has continued to work despite the restrictions.
Personally, this has been a year of learning and stretching. Those who know me will not be surprised that working from home and frequent isolation has been a challenge. In these circumstances, I am so grateful for online resources, such as Microsoft Teams, to keep me connected and able to do my job. I have learned to care for myself by taking daily walks and listening for God through nature. All creation sings His praise!
Relationships are more valued than ever. I am grateful for family and friends in the U.S., in London and beyond. God has been kind to me, and I hope I have shared kindness as well. This year my prayer is “Come, Lord Jesus,” believing as He has been with me, He will be Emmanuel, God with us—with me—for this new year with renewed hope and new opportunities to serve Him.
Editor’s note: Colonel Evie Diaz will begin a new appointment as Chief Secretary of the Canada and Bermuda Territory on May 1, 2020.
