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Dear Brethren and Friends,

It is in the seasonal Holy Days of God that we are to experience a really special renewal of our faith—and much more!

We are now observing the final of “three times” of each year in which we are commanded to appear before God (Deuteronomy 16:16). We do so as brethren and with the astounding truth that both God the Father and Jesus Christ are very intimately involved in our lives.

Unmistakably, we have entered another juncture—a period of time spoken of in the Bible as “the end of the age.”

While on the one hand we are portraying—in type—the culminating events that will lead to the establishment of God’s Kingdom and a time of incomparable peace, the reality of what is happening right now appears bleak!

Jesus Christ has very clearly warned that those of this age will not understand the gravity of the situation (compare Matthew 24:36-39). In fact, as times grow worse and worse, God’s people will face increasing persecutions! Note what Jesus said would happen in this context:

“‘All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake’” (Matthew 24:8-9).

Regardless of what nation Christians might find themselves in, those who remain faithful to Jesus Christ will always have help from God. It is for the elect’s sake that God will intervene to shorten those days in order to save this world and to preserve life on it (compare Matthew 24:22; Romans 9:27-28).

In the Book of Revelation, a panoramic overview of the Church of God is presented. In chapters two and three, seven cities of Asia (Turkey) are identified and serve as archetypes for distinct eras of the Church. These periods are identified by dominant characteristics that arise and that will be prevalent in the Church following its establishment, and to each one Jesus Christ gives a specific message of warning and encouragement. In addition, each Church era receives this urgent admonition:

“‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22).

Much of what we read in the messages to the churches has already taken place, and it is apparent that Laodicea is now the predominant era. However, there are still remnants of previous eras in existence today, especially Philadelphia. Concerning the momentous times that lie ahead of us, Christ has a specific directive to Laodicea and the remnant of Philadelphia—and the implications are crucial.

First, note what Jesus promises to those in Philadelphia regarding their immediate future:

“‘Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown’” (Revelation 3:10-11).

Understand that this will only find fulfillment at the occurrence of the period of great tribulation and events leading to Christ’s return.

Next, a quite different challenge is presented to Laodicea:

“‘I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, “I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing”—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me’” (Revelation 3:15-20).

Laodicea represents the final emergence of God’s Church, and their description is based on their spiritual condition as well as their approach to fulfilling the Work of preaching the gospel message. They are the ones who will not be kept “from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.” In Revelation 12, verses 13-17, two groups of God’s people are also mentioned—one is protected from Satan while the other suffers persecution from him! The context of this prophecy is set in the final generation living in the end of this age (compare Matthew 24:32-35).

How does Philadelphia “persevere”? The answer is found in Revelation 3:8:

“‘I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.’”

God has called only a few in this day and age to become His firstfruits (James 1:18). It falls to those of us who have received God’s Holy Spirit to respond, and one way is to continually strive to overcome. We can overcome when we keep Jesus Christ in the forefront of our lives:

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified” (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Brethren, we are to study and consider all that has happened to God’s Church—as Jesus commands in His message to the churches. We are to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). Even as Paul wrote to those of his era, so must we now heed his instructions:

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25).

Let’s take the time to be especially thankful to the Father and Jesus Christ for what they are doing in our lives, and let us firmly resolve to follow their lead and that of those who faithfully serve in the Work God has given to His Church.

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends!

It is hard to believe that summer is almost over. We are now looking forward to the annual Fall Holy Days, beginning with the Feast of Trumpets on September 29, 2011. Most of us have already been making plans and reservations to attend the Feast of Tabernacles this year, either in Pismo Beach, California, or in Deganwy, North Wales. Both of these locations are inspiring sites.

Keeping the Feast of Tabernacles together with like-minded people will be a small foretaste of the love and fellowship that we can look forward to when Christ sets up God’s Kingdom here on earth. We know that in due time, all humanity will be given the opportunity to observe God’s weekly and annual Holy Days, including the Feast of Tabernacles, and they will finally forsake all pagan holidays. Instead, they will worship the God of the Bible in spirit and in truth.

Those who are being called now are being trained to carry out the tremendous future opportunity to literally reshape this world. But they are not attempting to do so today, knowing that their opportunity will only come after Christ’s return. Under Christ’s leadership, it will be given to them to bring peace and harmony to this war-torn, totally perverted confused world. At that time, the current god of this world, Satan the devil, who deceives the whole world, will be banned. He will be no longer allowed to deceive mankind. As a consequence, the overwhelming majority will be receptive to God’s Way of Life, and they will be offered the gift of the Holy Spirit. Most will accept this gift, thereby experiencing the kind of love, peace, joy, patience and faith which had been unknown to them before.

Man will know on what days to worship God. Eventually, most will be happy to keep the weekly Sabbath which was established by God Almighty at the time of man’s creation. When Christ told the Pharisees that He was Lord of the Sabbath, He pointed out that He had not only created it, but also, that He spoke with authority when He told them how to keep it holy. He was condemned by some for healing the sick on the Sabbath, and His disciples were being criticized for picking heads of grain on the Sabbath. We read in Luke 6:1-5:

“Now it happened on the second Sabbath after the first that He went through the grainfields. And His disciples plucked the heads of grain and ate them, rubbing them in their hands. And some of the Pharisees said to them, ‘Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?’ But Jesus answering them said, ‘Have you not even read this, what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he went into the house of God, took and ate the showbread, and also gave some to those with him, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat?’ And He said to them, ‘The Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.’”

As the Lord and Creator of the Sabbath, He could dogmatically proclaim what was and is acceptable and lawful to do and not to do on the Sabbath. The Pharisees, because of their many man-made regulations and traditions, were unjust in their condemnation of Christ’s and His disciples’ actions on God’s Holy Day. They did not allow Christ to show them the true spiritual intent of the Sabbath law. This is not different today in regard to the way in which many orthodox Jews observe the Sabbath, while, on the other hand, most people around the world do not observe the Sabbath at all. Some may keep Friday, others may not keep any day. Even in the “Christian” world, most have been deceived to think that the Sabbath was replaced by Sunday—a pagan day dedicated to the worship of heathen sun gods.

There is also great deception and confusion regarding God’s annual Holy Days. The overwhelming majority knows nothing about God’s command to continue to observe these days faithfully. After all, Christ established them at the time when He began to bring Israel out of Egyptian slavery. They are to be kept forever by physical Israel (including the modern descendants of the ancient houses of Israel and Judah, such as the USA and the British Commonwealth nations) as well as by spiritual Israel (the Church of God). But even many of those who observe them today may keep them on wrong days, or they do not keep them in their entirety or in the correct way, because they knowingly or ignorantly refuse to apply the spiritual intent of the law, as explained and taught by God’s true Church.

Living in a future world when religious confusion has been completely removed will be a great blessing for all. We have now been given our part in supporting the most important Work
today, and that is, proclaiming to this sick and dying age the only message of true hope and lasting change—the Gospel or Good News of the soon-coming KINGDOM of God.

Nothing could be of greater importance! If we fulfill our individual responsibility, by accepting and acting upon our role in the Body of Christ, as and where He placed us, God promises us even physical protection in the future.

What we see today is an ongoing deterioration of world conditions, with more wars and conflicts, more earthquakes of greater frequency and intensity, and more unusually destructive weather patterns—be it too much sun and drought, or too much rain and flooding caused by hurricanes, and other abnormal weather phenomena.

Satan knows that we are fast approaching the end of this evil age, and his wrath is very great, being fully aware that the end of his rule over this earth is near. Although we do not set dates, we can tell by the signs of the times that the prophesied Great Tribulation is not too far off. Then conditions will even deteriorate so much more rapidly, that God will have to intervene “for the elect’s sake” to shorten those dreadful days and to save mankind from total annihilation.

Thankfully, some will survive and those worthy of God’s protection will be able to stand before Christ when He returns. We are to pray to God that He will establish His Kingdom very soon, thereby CHANGING today’s terrible world conditions and, more importantly, the hearts of man.

Man doesn’t know today how to rule himself, and he is heading down the road of total destruction. The way of peace and harmony has been explained in the Bible all along, but man has been ignoring and rejecting God’s Word.

Once Satan is removed and God’s righteous government is established on this earth over all nations, we will see lasting peace and prosperity, and man will worship God with one voice on the correct weekly and annual Holy Days, which picture His plan for mankind.

Thankfully, that time is not too far away, and it behooves us, collectively and individually, to remain dedicated to and engaged in doing the Work of God that has been laid before us. We have to be persistent and patiently waiting for God to open before us doors of proclaiming the Gospel, since He sees our hearts, and He will honor our desire to finish the job that He has given us.

We must also continue to grow in Christ’s grace and knowledge, maintaining a right relationship with God which is based on faith in Christ’s Sacrifice and obedience of His wonderful laws, for our own good. If we remain faithful and don’t give up and become complacent, bored and disinterested, we will be able to stand as glorified God beings before the all-powerful Son of Man, ready and willing to bring REAL and positive change to a downtrodden and destructive world.

The immediate future is wrought with trials, but our future joy of working with, under and for Christ in continuing to proclaim and teach the eternal Gospel in the Millennium and the Great White Throne Judgment is a wonderful and enduring goal.

Let us ensure that we don’t lose heart in our responsibilities, so that we can stand before Christ when He returns. Mankind needs us. We must not let them down.

In Christ Service,

Rene Messier

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

Much has happened on the world scene this year. We have, no doubt, all seen the domino effect in Northern Africa and the Middle East affecting a number of countries, as the fulfilment of prophetic events gathers pace.

In respect of God’s Holy Day calendar, we are now in that time between Pentecost and the Feast of Trumpets. We recently celebrated Pentecost on June 12, and the next Holy Day will be on September 29. And what those days picture corresponds with where we are on the world scene. The Holy Spirit was given on that most eventful day of Pentecost in 31 AD, and nearly 2,000 years later we are awaiting the next event—that of the return of Jesus Christ—which the Holy Day of the Feast of Trumpets foreshadows.

Jesus instructed His followers about the importance of watching when He said: “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:34-36). There is much to learn from these verses. Christ’s disciples were told to be watchful and not to let the cares of the world affect them. And in verse 36, those of us who take the Bible seriously, are admonished to pray always to be counted worthy of protection during the time of the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord, and to be able to stand spiritually ready before the returning Jesus Christ.

This time of great calamity is spelled out in the book of Daniel: “At that time Michael shall stand up, The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; And there shall be a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, Every one who is found written in the book” (Daniel 12:1).

Jesus did make this promise to His disciples that there would be a way of escaping this most terrible of times which would precede His return in power and glory. This time of unparalleled trouble is spelled out in Matthew 24:22: “And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved [alive]; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.”

In the model prayer that Jesus gave to His followers, He exhorted all of us to pray for God’s Kingdom to come (Matthew 6:9). But in order for the Kingdom to come, the Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord must precede that. One cannot happen without the other, as they are inextricably linked.

We may pray regularly “to escape all these things that will come to pass,” but do we give a great deal of thought to what will happen to our family, friends and acquaintances during these 3½ years of unprecedented trouble on earth? I have to say that this has exercised my mind a good deal in recent times.

The Kingdom of God will be such a wonderful, joyful and happy place, with Jesus Christ being the perfect ruler, unlike all of those in power today. He will rule in a way that is in the best interests of everyone. He will not reign with some self-serving approach that so many in power have, or develop, when in office.

But what will precede Christ’s rule hardly bears thinking about. We can see atrocities being committed now, and we see the brutal way that opposition is put down to preserve the status quo in autocracies and dictatorships. And yet, that will be nothing in comparison with what will happen in the future. Just before Christ’s return, we read about such conditions in Luke 21:25-26: “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” The very next verse talks about Christ’s return, but before that wonderful event occurs, there will be a catastrophic and chaotic time unlike any other.

The Olivet prophecy in Matthew 24 very clearly tells us of tumultuous events which, surely, cannot be too far ahead of us. But have we really considered what this will mean to those who are close to us, but who have not been called at this time or who may have lost interest, belief in or concern about events which will make life on earth an horrendous time for those not being afforded protection from the horrors that the Bible speaks about.

We read in the parable of the five wise and five foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 that there will be those who will be caught unawares. Members of the Church of God who have become lax and lukewarm will not be protected from the horrors to come (see Revelation 3:14-19). If some Church of God members are to go through this time of unprecedented trouble, it seems unlikely that those will be spared (including adult members of our own family) who have shown no interest in the Church, however close they may be to us. It may seem an unpalatable situation on which to meditate, but we do have to be prepared for what could happen in the not-too-distant future. Nevertheless, we know that God does the calling in His own good and perfect way with immaculate timing, and He will bring about situations that will work for the benefit of every last person on earth.

However, please note that the possibility exists that, depending on overall attitude, even some non-converted family members might be given the opportunity for protection during these tumultuous times ahead! 1 Corinthians 7:14 reveals that an unbelieving mate is “sanctified” by the believing mate—and that their minor children are “holy.” We also find that non-Israelites (a mixed multitude) were freed from Egyptian slavery, and we read in Genesis 19 that Lot’s family members had an opportunity for protection—but, unfortunately, Lot’s sons-in-law rejected the opportunity to flee; his wife wanted to return to Sodom, and his daughters subsequently defiled themselves and their father sexually. Nevertheless, we see the importance of faithful members continuing to set an example now for their family and of developing a loving relationship which will sustain all in the times ahead!

It would be unnatural for us not to be concerned, but we have to trust God in this in every way. He knows what is best for us all and when one is to be given his or her best opportunity of making it into His wonderful, eternal and joyful Kingdom.

There are wonderful times ahead, but not before the terrible times which will have been necessitated by man’s constant rejection of God’s good way. We should be so thankful that we have been called to be in the first (and better) resurrection and to be able to make our “call and election sure” (2 Peter 1:10), so that we can be of service, for eternity, in the perfect Family of God.

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
Great Britain

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Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends:

We are living in a world of awesome progress and accomplishments, but we are at the same time confronted with violence, misery, pain, suffering, appalling evil and awful squalor. Decades ago, Herbert W. Armstrong, the late human leader of the Church of God, used expressions like these to convey an incredible paradox—that man, capable of sending a human being to the moon and bringing him back safely to this earth, is seemingly unable to solve his most fundamental problems on his planet. Since Mr. Armstrong died in 1986, the magnitude of this paradox has even increased at least one thousand times over.

Mr. Armstrong spoke repeatedly about the two trees in the Garden of Eden—the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and the Tree of Life. These trees, even though real, were of symbolic significance. They represented the wisdom of this world and the mysterious hidden knowledge of God. The first man chose to eat from the forbidden fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, thereby rejecting and losing the possibility to eat from the Tree of Life. He elected to decide for himself what seemed to be right in his own eyes, and he lost thereby the privilege of accepting from God the knowledge of the true, eternal and never-changing values of the right way of life. Man acquired human wisdom—including the wisdom of relying on himself and of creating terrible weapons of mass destruction; but he could not and does not understand the way to peace, happiness, prosperity and reliance on God (Romans 3:10-18), as this is spiritual wisdom which only God can grant (1 Corinthians 2:7-12).

Throughout the times of human existence, God specifically called certain ones out of this man-made and Satan-inspired civilization to give them the opportunity to understand and accept and live what is truly right, and to reject what is so terribly wrong. These are the “called-out-ones”—those whom God chose out of this world and placed in the body of Christ—the spiritual organization which is the Church of God. These are the ones who conduct themselves as ambassadors for Christ—who are citizens of a better world to come, whose names are recorded in God’s heavenly books, who live a different lifestyle and who show the world what could have been—and what will be, once Christ rules this earth with love, righteousness and justice, as well as with a rod of iron reserved for those who reject peace and happiness, while craving for and delighting in dissension, rebellion, war and destruction.

And still, having grown up in this world and living in this world, the “called-out-ones” must constantly be on guard to become and remain faithful. They must consistently reject the tempting and enticing influences of this present evil age (Galatians 1:4) and the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)—that serpent of old, called Satan the Devil, who deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9). They must persistently conquer their old carnal nature, which is unwilling and unable to submit to God and His timeless Law (Romans 8:7). They must grow in God’s faith and their reliance on Him, while overcoming self-reliance and their passion and lust for self-aggrandizement. It is (and must be) a constant struggle—truly a battle that begins in their minds. This spiritual warfare can only be won if they are clothed with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17)—and not only that, but also, if God the Father and Jesus Christ live, reside and dwell in them through the Holy Spirit (John 14:23). Where Adam and Eve failed, God’s disciples must succeed. While the first man and his wife ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and were barred from access to the Tree of Life, God’s followers today must decide to continuously eat from the Tree of Life, while barring for themselves any access to the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

God’s true followers must not be “Christian” in name only, while denying God by their works. But as truly converted and obedient Christians, they are learning to place every thought into captivity to the obedience of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5)—always willing to submit their will to the Will of God. They realize that man’s ways are not God’s ways, even if they think they are right. They accept the fact that God’s ways, deeds and thoughts are so much higher than the words, deeds and thoughts of man (Isaiah 55:8-9). To the degree that they subject themselves under God’s wise hands, they agree more and more that God works out His plan for them in their lives (Proverbs 20:24), even though they might have other plans, ideas and desires (Proverbs 16:9). In retrospect, they will understand that God’s Way was indeed the right one—the only one that really brought and brings lasting success and accomplishment.

Sometimes, they don’t quite see it yet. Sometimes, they think they know it better. Sometimes, they feel there must be a different way—an easier alternative. But in time, they will realize, regardless of the odds and the unpleasant direction that their life may be taking, that God is their Father who knows best and who loves them and wants them in His Kingdom—and that for all eternity.

You and I are those special people whom God has called today, to understand and practice His Truth. With our calling comes responsibility. We have been called to make right choices. There is one of Mr. Armstrong’s many articles which I remember very well. It is called, “Let God Fight Your Battles.” We all must learn to do that. Then, our victory is assured.

Yes, we must go through many tribulations or trials to enter the Kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). It is not an easy way, and we must count the cost before we decide to commit. But let’s not focus too much on the aspect of the trials. Rather, let’s think of what we are to enter—the Kingdom of God. THAT is something to reflect on! To be in God’s Kingdom—in His ruling Family. To be a glorified Spirit being, as the Father and the Son are Spirit beings, full of power and glory and might. To be immortal and eternal, unable to die or to get sick! To be sinless, immune to sin. To be able to always choose the right way. To never again have to fight against and to conquer the temptations of sin, society or self. To be perfect. To be God’s child—and a brother or sister of Jesus Christ. To be able to help others—including our loved ones—to choose the right way. To heal all sicknesses and diseases—not to allow sickness anymore. To enforce true peace, prosperity, happiness and gladness on this earth… and so much more…

If we concentrate on these things, the God of peace will be with us (Philippians 4:7). Always.
Forever and ever.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

Have you been SHOCKED by what is happening?

Jesus Christ spoke of things that “must come to pass” (Matthew 24:6), and He continued by telling of devastating events that would signal “the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:8).

When we witness the unprecedented scale of destruction that has been striking so many nations, it becomes unmistakably apparent that prophecy is coming to fruition! The very developments spoken of by Jesus Christ are signals we should carefully WATCH:

“‘Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away’” (Matthew 24:32-35).

Yet, we must understand that this is only the THRESHOLD and that this world will face unparalleled terror in the coming years:

“‘And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved [alive]; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened’” (Matthew 24: 22).

The “elect” are those who are the true and faithful Christians—the ones who do not compromise with the Truth; who overcome and endure in their calling from God; who are committed to preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God; and who love one-another, just as Christ loves us.

There is also something else that the “elect” are instructed to do, and this applies very specifically to our generation. First, we are to WATCH: “‘Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming’” (Matthew 24:42). Next, we are to BE READY: “‘Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect’” (Matthew 24:44).

We have this additional warning from Jesus:

“‘But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man’” (Luke 21:34-36).

In Proverbs, it is stated, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself…” (Proverbs 22:3; 27:12).

Are we PREPARED for the evil that we KNOW is coming—that even now has begun; and how do we “hide” ourselves?

The answer to both of these questions lies in the strength of our relationship with God! Like Jesus Christ did, so must we learn to rely on God. Our key is to fervently use the Holy Spirit of God!

On June 12, 2011, we will once again observe the Feast of Weeks—Pentecost. This is a time of particular meaning and significance for the elect of God who have been called to be among the firstfruits (Revelation 14:4)—those who will be in the first resurrection (Revelation 20:5) and who will live and reign with Jesus Christ for one thousand years (Revelation 20:4).

We have the record of many true followers of God who have lived before us—it is found in the Word of God, and it is for our instruction and inspiration. Hebrews, chapter eleven, rehearses the walk of faith and the outstanding example of men and women who will also be among the firstfruits of God.

Theirs is a story of success and the victory that comes through God’s help (1 Corinthians 15:57). God has also given to us His unbreakable promises for help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16), and we can faithfully commit ourselves to this assurance of hope (compare 1 John 5:4-5; Revelation 15:2).

While we continue to witness the terror that is arising from so many sources, we must be attentive to and magnify our personal relationship with God and Jesus Christ,  “casting all [our] care upon Him, for He cares for [us]” (1 Peter 5:7).

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris

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Dear Brethren:

We have just observed Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread. We focused on the fact that the annual Passover reminds us of the great Sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Because He was willing to shed His blood for the sins of humanity, we can in the future become a part of the Family of God, ruling with and under Christ in the Millennium and throughout eternity.

The Passover was preceded by a period of self-examination to ensure that we were taking the Passover in a worthy manner, as admonished by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:28-29: “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.”

It was and still is important, not only to examine ourselves, but also to root out any sin which we may have, by first identifying it. That is where the Days of Unleavened Bread came in.

We concentrated on the truth that the seven Days of Unleavened Bread are an annual reminder of the need to remove sin from our lives and to replace sin with righteousness. The seven days denote completion, so at the end of the seven days, sin should have been completely conquered and removed. Of course, this is the ideal, but we all know that this is not how it works. As some of us may have found leaven in our homes during the Days of Unleavened Bread, which we inadvertently failed to remove, so we are still confronted with sin. No human being, who is alive today, has reached the state of sinlessness.

However, we must strive to remove each and every sin. The importance of this cannot be overemphasized, since sins, even in small quantities, corrupt the thinking of a person—just like a little leaven which leavens the whole lump, as we read in 1 Corinthians 5:6: “Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?”

Likewise, a little sin that is not dealt with and removed, can corrupt the whole mind. Compare this to a virus in a computer! If it is not dealt with, it can corrupt the hard drive to the point where it becomes totally dysfunctional.

Let us consider Job. God said that he was righteous; that is, he was not committing any outward sin, but he had a deep-rooted problem of being self-righteous, which, as any sin not being dealt with, can totally corrupt the human mind. It took God a while through some really tough trials to get Job to finally see his problem and to repent for his own benefit. He said in Job 42:5-6: “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, And repent in dust and ashes.”

Once this happened, God restored the losses that Job had suffered, and He rewarded Job. It took a while, but from God’s perspective, it was worth it, which is an important lesson for us.

Sin must be repented of daily in order for it not to get a hold on us. That is why daily prayer is so important, since we can ask for forgiveness for any sins of commission and omission, and we can beg God to help us not to allow sins to sneak up on us and overpower us.

The next annual Holy Day in God’s master plan is the day of Pentecost, which will be kept this year on June 12. It reminds us of the gift of the Holy Spirit which God bestowed on the New Testament church in 31 A.D., enabling the disciples to become more and more successful in their endeavor to overcome and conquer sin.

As we move forward, we must also consider the job that we as a Church and individually have been given. We are to participate and support our commission of preaching and publishing the gospel to this sick world as a witness, in order to facilitate and hopefully speed up the return of Christ, which is the only solution for mankind.

World conditions are deteriorating at an accelerating pace, and it has become evident that God has removed His blessings that He had promised unconditionally to the modern descendants of Abraham—the modern house of Israel, and more specifically, the descendants of the sons of Joseph—Ephraim and Manasseh—who can be found today in Great Britain, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and, of course, the United States of America.

Recently we observed flooding in Australia and earthquakes in New Zealand, and currently we are plagued with droughts in certain areas of the United States, while fires are burning out of control in Texas, and storms and tornadoes are descending by the hundreds on states like the Carolinas, which is historically unheard of.

And while our nations condemn the killing and slaughter of protestors and demonstrators by the governments of Libya and Syria, we ourselves murder millions annually by abortion. What hypocrisy! Those nations in the Middle East are killing hundreds of people, and our Israelite nations kill millions of innocent babies each year, while pointing the finger at others.

Things are going to get progressively worse for our nations as we approach the time when God will have to literally save the very elect to prevent them from being exterminated. Plainly stated, things will get worse for us as we are currently under the self-inflicted curse of our sins.

But those of us who are called by God, know that there is hope, and that hope lies in Christ who will return to save mankind from itself.

Therefore, our focus at this time should be on finishing the Work that God has given us, as God opens doors before us to accomplish that goal. Now is not the time to slack off or to be or become complacent. Rather, now is the time to zealously seek God and do His Will which is clearly stated, and to ensure that we do not become victims of sin in our lives, but, as admonished by Christ, we are to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Because of our involvement and collective and individual efforts, Christ will eventually give us eternal life at His return. Isn’t that a goal worth striving for and being totally involved in?

In Christ Service

Rene Messier

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Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

Thank you for all your prayers in regard to our annual conference—they were greatly appreciated and their power was felt. During the conference, which concluded just over a week ago, we were able to complete everything that we set out to do, and more. We used this time to assess where we have been and evaluated where we should go. We looked at the past year specifically to see if we have accomplished what we planned, and to the future to set more goals in order to better fulfill the Great Commission that we have been given.

The ministers gave reports that included areas specific to them, as well as other regions that need to be looked after. We are beginning to notice more and more needs in areas that we do not currently have the resources to serve. As the necessity becomes more pressing, the reality that we must tend to the prospective members there becomes more tangible. As we preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God, as God has commanded His Church to do, this is the outgrowth that we can expect. Because we have done this in accordance with His Will, we faithfully wait for and anticipate the means by which we can carry out this next step.

We are making the most of what we have been given. As we continue to experience the economic crisis that besets our nations, our organizations have begun to take some financial hits. We expressed our financial needs to our members, and asked for prayer and fasting, and we are sincerely appreciative of the generous response to those needs and the special offerings that have been sent in. Our duty has been and will continue to be that of wise stewards with that which God has given us. We sincerely try to be as effective as possible with all that we have been entrusted. We will not spend what we do not have, but we firmly believe that God will give us what we need to fulfill our responsibilities.

One of the areas that exemplifies this and continues to develop is that of our Internet presence. The percentage of positive change has been phenomenal in several different areas. We have seen numbers nearly twice as high as the year before—this is a 100% increase over last period’s figures. In human terms, this seems unsustainable, but with God nothing is impossible—so we will not doubt what He can and will do. Our hopes and expectations are to carry on this momentum to a point of critical mass—a time when an explosive self-sustaining growth is triggered.

The technical team’s efforts were bolstered with the ordination of Mr. Eric Rank to the rank and office of an Elder. Mr. Rank has been heavily involved in this aspect of the Work for years. Exodus 31:1-5 was cited within the ordination message in the context that God can give more of His Spirit to help someone do an even better work than they are otherwise capable of. Our Internet presence is currently one of the main means of getting the gospel out to the world—a crucial aspect of our commission. The ministry concluded that Mr. Rank’s attitude, combined with his tireless dedication, made him an obvious candidate for the eldership.

The other aspect of our commission, as mentioned in Matthew 28:19-20, is the feeding of the flock. In this vein, Mr. and Mrs. Norbert Link and their family will be heading to Germany to visit the brethren there. Recently, the area has experienced startling growth and the need to support it is evident. They will leave in about one week and remain there for the duration of the Spring Holy Days.

We are now in the pre-Passover season, the beginning of the annual festivals of God. We have already heard many messages directed toward us in preparation for this most meaningful and pivotal time. As we pray to be led by God’s Spirit, we need to take to heart these messages, as we examine ourselves.

At this time of the year, many issues may come to the surface, and real problems are magnified. There is an explanation for this… but there are two sides to the coin, though!

Firstly, we need to be aware of the fact that Satan is going to be making trouble for us. He will use every means at his disposal to take us off point. We need to be cognizant of all his evil devices and be on guard for his attacks. When trouble hits, we must be ready for his end game.

The other side of the coin is that God wants us to grow and overcome the faults and character flaws that we have. At this time of the year, in particular, He wants us to critically examine ourselves. God wants us to see ourselves the way He does—so that we can change for the better and become more like Him.

So, especially before the annual Passover, we can expect dilemmas and difficulties to arise. How we respond to them will determine whether we progress or regress. Remember, Satan tempts us in order to bring out the worst, and God tests us in order to bring out the best.

We are admonished not to give way to the devil, but rather, to submit to God. When we use the power of God’s Holy Spirit in us, we can successfully navigate the season we are in and come out of it spiritually augmented.

Brethren, God has tasked us with a vital undertaking. Please continue to diligently pray for one another and the Work that God has given us to do, so that we may be found “so doing” when Christ returns in the very near future.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Eric Rank

PS We are enclosing a renewal card for our readers in the USA. Please fill out and return the card in order to continue to receive our member letters and booklets.

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Dear Brethren and Friends!

According to man’s calendar, another year has come and gone, and 2010 is not one that too many will look upon with any great affection.

The ongoing problems in Afghanistan and Iraq continue to take young lives, and a large majority of people in both the UK and the USA are suffering financial difficulties, following the well documented economic problems that have beset many nations around the world.

The coalition government that we now have in the UK has the unenviable task of trying to reduce a massive budget deficit, and those who are affected inevitably complain at the measures being taken. Benefit fraud and the “milking” of the system has been endemic for some years. The Daily Telegraph reported, in September of last year, that “Four million households in Britain have no adults in work, official figures show, with the number rising this year to reach a 10-year high.”

In addition, Sky News commented last October that “Incapacity benefit claimants will today start being reassessed for their ability to work – part of the first phase of the Government’s welfare reform programme. The move comes as new figures showed that almost £135bn had been spent over the past 10 years keeping two million people ‘on the sick’. Very few people argue against the fact that huge financial abuse has taken place and this reflects a society where ethics are disregarded in the pursuit of self.”

Also in 2010, earthquakes continued to regularly take their toll of human life, and a BBC report on the floods in Pakistan said that 12 million people had been affected. More recently, an earthquake generated tsunami devastated remote islands in Indonesia. And on October 28th, just over two months ago, it was reported that 28 European Union leaders meeting at the European Council in Brussels approved a plan to revise the Lisbon Treaty to facilitate the creation of a permanent framework for ailing euro zone economies. As we stated in our November 5th Update: “The time for the creation of a ‘core Europe’ and a strong leader in Europe may arrive soon.” It seems that events are moving at an alarming rate.

But there is one disturbing aspect that society as a whole would not want to consider at all, but which will have quite an effect in the future. That terrible reality is man’s rejection of God.

In Stephen Hawking’s new book, which was published last year, he stated that “Modern physics leaves no place for God in the creation of the Universe.”  Atheist Richard Dawkins wrote “The God Delusion” in 2006, and this book has sold in huge numbers. And Christopher Hitchens, another atheist, published with great success his book “God is not Great”.

One Christian commentator opined: “But judging by the unanimous acclaim given to ‘The God Delusion’ in the national press, it is likely that the ideas contained in it will have a big influence on policymakers and the nation as a whole over the coming years. And if this turns out to be the case, we as Christians will find ourselves to be an increasingly persecuted people.”

The three high profile agnostic or atheistic British authors (mentioned above) have helped delude millions by their utterances which have been taken as truth by so many. Basic understanding is ignored because it is Bible based – understanding that would, if implemented, solve so many problems. But without practicing the truth of the Bible, there is really no hope that world conditions could improve.

For example, 2 Thessalonians 3:10 states: “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat”. If this simple basic instruction was implemented, those whose lifestyle is living on state benefits would be a thing of the past. That would save the country billions of pounds.

Another truth is that “… the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). If this was taken seriously, the huge debts that so many have incurred would never have happened. Nevertheless, the nation sets no example in this regard, printing money seemingly at will.

Husband and wife relationships are covered in a number of passages (see, for example, Ephesians 5:22-29; Colossians 3:18-19; and 1 Corinthians 11:3). If such admonition was taken seriously, we wouldn’t have the misery of separation or divorce and the negative effect this inevitably has on any children of that union.

The First of the Ten Commandments instructs us that we should have no other gods before the great Creator God (Exodus 20:3). If this was followed by humanity, we wouldn’t have agnosticism or atheism or any of the false religions that abound, particularly the aggressive terrorist type of misplaced zeal that is such a plague on society today.

Further, if the Fourth Commandment was taken seriously (Exodus 20:8-11), then the observance of the 7th-day Sabbath, a day of rest from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, would refresh and help those whose frenetic lifestyle for the other six days of the week can cause illness and health problems by continuous overuse of their bodies.

Because the Bible is mocked by such agnostic or atheistic authors as mentioned earlier (and others), these truths are not known, understood or taken seriously. The Bible is a storehouse of wisdom and truth, with Proverbs particularly standing out in this respect, but if the Word of God is “rubbished” by these “intellectuals”, millions are influenced by their views and turn against biblical revelation.

Man is thumbing his nose at God, but that disrespect will only be allowed for so long. Blasphemy is endemic in our society where God’s Name is used by the youngest to the oldest as a swear word and an epithet. Many simply may have no idea what they are saying and doing, and if they did know, they would probably not be concerned anyway.

God and His way does not figure in most people’s lives. The sense of decency, courtesy, politeness and respect that we used to practice has simply been discarded, and God is just not in the picture. The freedom of expression that we enjoy has been exploited by those whose agenda is anti-God. This unnoticed aspect of our society will bear fruit because “whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7). The initial part of that verse is chilling. It says: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked”, and so the godless society we live in will only be allowed for so long until God’s purpose is fulfilled.

A few days ago, after having been absorbed in the pagan holiday of Christmas, the world celebrated its New Year with all the antics and behaviour that is so often associated with it and which characterizes this pagan festival year after year. It was observed with the usual high expectations for the coming twelve months, but the signs are not good.

Next it will be Easter, and that “Christian” world’s holiday will again be kept in due time. But God has given His people the marvelous truth about His way of life and the master plan of salvation as revealed in the Holy Days that will commence in April of this year. As a special service to our readers, we are enclosing pocket calendars for the dates of God’s annual Holy Days until 2017.

Now is not the time to let down. It is high time to maintain our trust in God, not in politicians, business tycoons, various other leaders and misguided authors. Many of these high profile individuals may be well intentioned, but unless one understands the truth, repents of one’s wrong ways of thinking and practices, and unless one has received God’s Holy Spirit, one cannot have the answers necessary to resolve the insurmountable problems that we will continue to experience in 2011.

Those problems will only be resolved when Christ returns, and how long will that be? In spite of various predictions by some who should know better, we simply have no idea as to the year of His coming (Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:6-7). God simply hasn’t revealed the date. (That our calendar lists God’s annual Holy Days until 2017 is only because of space considerations. No other meaning should be attached to this fact!). We can say, however, that as the world continues to degenerate in just about every way, Christ’s return will surely have to happen soon to save us from ourselves (compare Matthew 24:22, 32-35).

Satan is angry and will continue to intensify his efforts to derail us. Let us intensify our efforts in becoming and staying close to God. That way we will be able to weather the storms that lie ahead with the promise of a wonderful future—for eternity. It will be worth all the effort!

With Christian love,

Brian Gale
(Great Britain)

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Dear Brethren and Friends:

Within a few weeks, this world celebrates Christmas. Paradoxically and perhaps surprisingly to many, it is not only the “Christian” world, which observes this popular festival. Many non-Christian nations observe it too—but this fact is not all that startling when we consider that Christmas is anything else but Christian. Its origins are steeped in paganism, and any objective researcher will have to admit this truth. Many don’t care, though, thinking that it makes no difference whether it’s pagan or Christian, as long as it’s nice, fun-filled, family-oriented and, perhaps, resembling the appearance of “some” warm religious “feelings.”

From a strictly human point of view, this concept might even make sense. After all, what could possibly be wrong with a family gathering; a common meal; a beautifully decorated Christmas tree; colorful lights in the front yard; nice carols; the exchange of gifts; donations to worthy causes of feeding the hungry; the smiling faces of children receiving presents; and even the rare walk or drive to a nearby Church service? One would be well-advised, of course, to overlook rampant alcoholism, brutal crimes and strife at home, and the many “nice” fabricated stories about Santa Claus or the little Christ child, which are told to innocent and believing children… but apart from these accompanying circumstances or “excusable” white lies, what could possibly be wrong with observing a most joyous Christmas season—a time of peace and good will toward man?

As it is the case with so many affairs of life, it is wrong because God tells us so. Man, by himself, does not know right from wrong. It must be revealed to him, and he must be willing to accept it and live by it. If you are in doubt as to whether or not it makes a difference to God whether His people participate in humanly-devised pagan holidays (whether or not the “Christian” element is emphasized), please read our free booklet, “Don’t Keep Christmas.” It proves to you that Jesus was not born on December 25; that the early Christians never kept Christmas, but that idol-worshipping pagans did; that the Roman Catholic Church adopted this festival and its customs for the sake of sun-adoring heathens in order to bring them into the “Christian” fold; and, most importantly, that and why God condemns its celebration with the strongest of terms.

Most of you know about and have accepted God’s viewpoint on Christmas. But what about other areas of life? Do we sometimes feel that we don’t always have to follow God’s directives—at least perhaps not that carefully and precisely? Do we occasionally think that we might know a better way or an alternate course of action, which might also work and which God would accept as well?

Examples are perhaps too numerous to list here, but let’s ask ourselves: Are we convinced and convicted that it is always wrong to advocate or even go to war; to vote in government elections; to participate in jury duty; to support or have an abortion; to cheat on our mate; to commit premarital fornication; to lie or stretch the truth a little; to take God’s name in vain; to use foul language; to smoke or get drunk; to hurt or offend our fellow man; to refuse to do good when it is in our power to do so, or to be truly peacemakers???  Many or perhaps even most Christians would agree that “all of the above” is wrong, but how often do we fall short, thinking perhaps at that tempting moment that it does not really matter “that much” to God.

However, all of it—and much more—matters a great deal to our Creator. We are to become perfect, as He is perfect (Matthew 5:48)—and could we imagine that God would lie just a little or that He would compromise just one iota of His law? Christ said in Matthew 5:18 that not one of the smallest letters nor one tittle will pass from the law until all is fulfilled or accomplished—until everyone will have been given the opportunity to accept and keep it. After all, the law of God describes the very immutable and unchangeable character of God.

When we become too indifferent to God’s Word, we will have to learn the hard way. God chastens everyone whom He receives (Hebrews 12:6). Sometimes, God does it directly, by bringing about circumstances which should teach us and wake us up. When things just don’t go right for a prolonged period of time, we should ask ourselves what God might be telling us. Sometimes, however, penalties come automatically, because sins have built-in consequences. Blessings are the effect of obedience, while disobedience (sin) results in automatic curses (Deuteronomy 11:26-28). God wants us to become Christians who are astute enough to recognize why certain events may be happening in our lives. He tells us in Proverbs 15:31: “The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise” (Authorized Version). This is not just talking about reproof from friends which, if heeded, prolongs our lives, but it is mainly addressing life’s reproofs or corrections. We are to listen and consider those, and learn from them, if we want to become wise and succeed.

God has told us, individually and collectively, what He expects of us today. He wants His gospel OF the Kingdom of God to be proclaimed in all the world as a witness (Matthew 24:14); He wants His Church to prepare for Christ’s Second Coming (Revelation 19:7); He wants all of us to watch world conditions and ourselves, and to pray always (Mark 13:33; Luke 21:36); and He wants us to always abound in the Work of God (Mark 13:34; John 14:12; 1 Corinthians 15:58)—not delaying, but hastening the day of Christ’s return (2 Peter 3:9, 12). He wants us to live in peace with each other (Hebrews 12:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:13); to encourage each other; not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:24-25)—in short, to replace all carnal selfishness with outgoing concern for others.

It’s just another way of saying: “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind… [and] you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37, 39). But again, God must show us HOW to love—because man does not know that kind of godly love which is required of him. To God, it’s not a small thing. As our truest friend, He is never indifferent about loving us at all times (Proverbs 17:17). God IS love (1 John  4:8), and He wants us to BECOME love as well. We are not talking about that warm, cozy, fleeting feeling of “love,” which is popularized and “embraced” at Christmas time, but we are accepting God’s Word, which tells us: “For this IS the love of God, that we keep His commandments (1 John 5:3).”

In these dark days—especially quite literally during winter time in the Western hemisphere—let us shine brightly (Proverbs 4:18), by reflecting God’s light to the people in this world. Rather than being temporary, passing candles on pagan Christmas trees, let us be enduring, ever-burning and never extinguishing representations of God’s loving character, so that people can recognize and even glorify God in us (Matthew 5:16). That is what God wants—that is what He expects of us. That is why we are called today. Let us always walk worthy of our calling (2 Thessalonians 1:11).

With brotherly love,

Norbert link

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Dear Brethren and Friends,

We believe that we are living in what the Bible calls the end of this age, and the signs of our times bring this truth into clearer focus, day-by-day! And for those of you who have either directly or indirectly followed the message we bring, you know that the preaching of the gospel of the Kingdom of God reigns paramount in our activities.

Of our present generation, the apostle Paul was inspired to write a warning for Christians to take to heart:

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

Much of what Paul identifies as being characteristic of “the last days” has also arisen in other times, but in these verses, he is writing about society becoming irretrievably saturated with all kinds of evil—much as was the case in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, when unspeakable practices so inundated those people that God was moved to destroy them (compare Genesis 18 and 19)!

Likewise, we find a similar record of those living in the days just before the Flood:

“Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the LORD said, ‘I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them’” (Genesis 6:5-7).

Now, in this context, consider what Jesus also said in a warning to us:

“‘But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be’” (Matthew 24:37-39).

For most people in this age, things seem to just be going on—as it has always done. God condemns the blindness of those who should lead in these dire times:

“All you beasts of the field, come to devour, All you beasts in the forest. His watchmen are blind, They are all ignorant; They are all dumb dogs, They cannot bark; Sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. Yes, they are greedy dogs Which never have enough. And they are shepherds Who cannot understand; They all look to their own way, Every one for his own gain, From his own territory. ‘Come,’ one says, ‘I will bring wine, And we will fill ourselves with intoxicating drink; Tomorrow will be as today, And much more abundant’” (Isaiah 56:9-12).

In the context of the approaching nearness of “the great day of the LORD” (Zephaniah 1:14)—a terrible time of God’s wrath just preceding the return of Jesus Christ—note how the people have ruled God out of events of the world of this generation:

“‘And it shall come to pass at that time That I will search Jerusalem with lamps, And punish the men Who are settled in complacency, Who say in their heart, “The Lord will not do good, Nor will He do evil”’” (Zephaniah 1:12).

This blind complacency that evil has begotten is about to reap its consequences! God, through His written Word and through the proclamation of His servants, has and is warning those who will heed—who will stay awake, ready and watching!

What about us?

As world events spin faster and faster into prophetic fulfillment, will we become hardened to sin and grow weary in our calling? The need to serve God even more diligently, even more fruitfully—until our job, our work, is completed—does not diminish, but grows in urgency!

Brethren and friends, much has happened to the Church of God in the past few decades, and even in this year, divisions continue among those who have been called into the Truth. While we can and must prayerfully consider these circumstances, we, nonetheless, must not be dismayed—for, even these events have been prophesied.

What we have been taught, we also teach, and that is summed up in the words of Jesus Christ, “‘But he who endures to the end shall be saved’” (Matthew 24:13); and in the message He gave to the seven churches in Revelation, chapters 2 and 3, which states that we must overcome to receive eternal life!

Finally, go back and reread the verses from 2 Timothy 3, along with the other Scriptures quoted and their context—and consider these words of Jesus Christ, as well:

“‘Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near’” (Luke 21:28).

Once again, we THANK you who so faithfully continue in the calling of God and in supporting this Work that He and Jesus Christ are accomplishing through us all!

In Christ’s Service,

Dave Harris