Today the 2013 Brengle Institute began in Geelong. This is an annual seminar named after Samuel Logan Brengle that is held in many countries around the world. It is attended by Salvation Army officers by invitation, usually just once during their officership and this year it is my privilege to be a part of the experience.
The opening address was given by Colonel Peter Walker who chose to talk through sections in the Bible where God asks people to remove their shoes. A strange topic, perhaps.
But think about it:
Moses is asked to remove his shoes so that God can be physically close to him, as he was on 'holy ground'.
Joshua was ordered to remove his battle shoes as he approached Jericho - it wasn't his battle to fight.
The Kingsman-Redeemer in the book of Ruth removed his shoes to sacrifice his rights before another that was more worthy.
And so on...
Culturally we are different to the Hebrews; we use other means to show intimacy, trust and sacrifice. But they are worthy themes and a good way for us to start our thinking at this year's institute.
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