On the holiness table at the front of the chapel of the Kansas City Northland, Mo., Corps sits a broken jar. It rests on its side, seemingly useless. But despite its appearance, the jar serves an important purpose. Prayer requests reside within it. Whether the salvation of a loved one, physical or spiritual healing, or release from sin, corps members have left their petitions to the Lord.
“The broken vessel represents our own brokenness,” said Major Joseph Wheeler, who leads the corps with his wife, Major Lois Wheeler. “It’s about looking at the condition of our hearts and preparing the soil for planting and bearing good fruit.”
In response to the Territorial Commander’s Call to Prayer, the corps has been focusing on spiritual growth. It began with the Wheelers offering an assessment to help corps members discover their discipleship styles. The congregation responded enthusiastically, with 50 people taking the assessment. Weekly sessions have provided time for discussion and learning; sermons also have focused on preparing hearts to be good soil and to bear fruit.
“There has been a hunger for it,” said Major Joseph. “People turned up for service even on a Sunday when most churches had closed due to the weather, and our online following has really grown. I keep thinking, ‘What a beautiful thing, this theme is focusing on the right stuff.’ Really, it’s a holiness message.”
With the soil tilled and enriched, the Wheelers plan to distribute a Fruit of the Spirit assessment which helps people see how, or if, they are bearing fruit. Discussion groups, Bible studies and worship services will focus on each fruit such as kindness.
“It’s really eye-opening,” Major Joseph concluded. “We’re looking forward to what the Lord has in store for Northland as we explore the fruit of the Spirit together.”
