Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends:

This is the time when the American people celebrate their “Independence Day.” I couldn’t help but comparing this event with the brief history of our Church organization in the USA—the “Church of the Eternal God.”

When something new starts, it is often accompanied by problems. But where there is vision and zeal for the right cause, there will be success. After a period of spiritual drought and lethargy, of little accomplishment and much fruitless debate, some ministers in the USA decided to resign from their former association and start anew, by incorporating the “Church of the Eternal God.”

Documents were filed with the Secretary of State on July 2, 2001, and the certificate of incorporation was issued on July 5, 2001. This means that the Church of the Eternal God has now entered the seventh year of its corporate existence. In due course, state and federal tax exemptions were received, on November 26, 2001, and July 30, 2002, respectively.

The Church of the Eternal God became legally affiliated with the Global Church of God in England and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship, in Canada. Some serve as Directors on the Boards of two or, in one case, of all three corporations.

In spite of these harmonious relationships, there were setbacks. Certain events forced us to separate from one of our Board members in the USA, who has since conducted his own independent ministry. Talks with another Church organization (which subsequently split into several groups) led nowhere. And a Church group in continental Europe, with whom we had originally collaborated, decided to become independent from us.

The biggest setback so far was the death of our beloved Senior Pastor, Edwin Pope, who died in December of last year. Gainsayers were quick to point out that this meant the death of our organization, as some had prophesied in 2001 that we would not survive for six months.

But if God is with us, no one can stop us! This is true individually AND collectively.

Let us have some fun with a few numbers, to illustrate this point:

Since the establishment of the Church of the Eternal God, we have published by now, through the combined efforts of our corporate entities in the USA, the UK and Canada, 24 booklets, with the 25th booklet being printed, as we speak. These booklets discuss vital topics such as the Gospel of the Kingdom of God; the nature of God the Father and Jesus Christ; the fact that God is not a Trinity, but rather a Family; God’s purpose for man; prophetic events; marriage and family; prayer; sickness and healing; human suffering; the weekly Sabbath and the annual Holy Days; the Ten Commandments; angels and demons; tithing; predestination; evolution; Christmas celebrations; whether we have an immortal soul; and that there is life after death—just to name a few. In terms of volume, our published booklets contain approximately 546,000 words.

In addition, we have just published our 300th weekly Update, filled with important current news reports in light of biblical prophecy, an editorial, a Bible study, as well as information regarding the Work, prayer updates and requests, and, every other week, a special contribution for our young(er) readers. These weekly updates have grown in volume and contents since their rather humble inception, and are now, on an average, between 15 and 20 pages long.

We have also just produced our 127th StandingWatch video-Internet program—a 6-to-10 minutes weekly video commentary on prophetic events or Christian living. Due to the construction of a recording studio and the purchase of additional necessary equipment, these programs are being regularly improved through a more appealing background, better lighting and sound. They are being posted on our own StandingWatch Website (www.standingwatch.org), as well as on Google Video—and they will soon be posted on additional Internet providers. We have confirmed that these programs are being watched around the world, including in Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Africa and Australia, and, of course, in Europe, Canada and the USA.
One of the most successful StandingWatch programs so far has been the one on “666, the Beast and Antichrist,” which received almost 3,900 views on Google Video, followed by “America’s Illegal Aliens” (about 3,050 views), “Is Nuclear War Coming?” (almost 3,000 views), “American Hiroshima” (in excess of 2,050 views), “USA—The Fading Superpower!” (in excess of 1,400 views), “Afghanistan’s Radical Islam” (almost 1,300 views), “Ghosts of Departed Ones?” (in excess of 1,100 views), “Iran’s Frightening Intentions” (over 1,000 views) and “What’s in Store for America” (over 850 views). These numbers are only for Google Video and do not include viewers of our StandingWatch Website.

In addition, we are posting certain selected video-recorded sermons on Google Video. Our recent video presentation, “Bible Study—Christian Suffering” has been viewed approximately 1,150 times.

We have also conducted advertisement campaigns and public Bible lectures in England and the USA, and have now begun to run Internet ad campaigns in Britain, the USA and Canada.

Our budget is balanced and sound, as we are careful not to overextend ourselves in any way. From the inception of the Church of the Eternal God, it has been our policy and practice NOT to spend what we don’t have, but to administer wisely and conscientiously the money that God has entrusted to us, to do His Work of preaching the Gospel and feeding His Flock.

All of our literature is free, and hard copies of our booklets and updates, as well as audiotapes of our sermons, are sent to those who request them, including those who do not have access to the Internet or who do not have email. Our websites, www.eternalgod.org; www.globalchurchofgod.co.uk, and www.churchofgodacf.ca, have posted all of our booklets and most updates, as well as approximately 500 sermons, and literature in German and French. In addition, our German website, www.aufpostenstehen.de, has posted seven of our booklets, as well as certain articles, in the German language.

Why mention all of this? To glory in ourselves? To give us a pat on the back and say to ourselves: “Well done!”? FAR FROM IT! Rather, to show what GOD can do! ALL glory belongs to God (Philippians 4:20). We would not be able to do ANYTHING without God’s direction, strength and help. But at the same time, consider what can be done when God’s servants work together in unity and harmony; zealous to do the Work of God; realizing that they ultimately labor for Christ and not for men; being concerned about what GOD thinks about them, rather than what men may think; KNOWING that their reward and their true treasures are in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21); and that Christ will reward them for their diligence when He returns (Revelation 22:12).

We have only just begun—but the potential is great. Truly, the harvest is ripe and plentiful (John 4:35). So let us pray that God will send out laborers into His harvest (Luke 10:2), and that He will guide and use us powerfully to fulfill His commission for us—all the while continuing to grow in the KNOWLEDGE of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:13).

Thank you, dear brethren and friends, for your loyalty, patience and dedication. May the richest blessings from our God and Father be with all of you.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

Does God really care about YOU? Is your life being watched over and guided by the One that Jesus revealed as the “Father”? Has God actually assigned His holy angels to monitor, protect and intervene in YOUR life? Does our High Priest, Jesus Christ, directly appeal to the Father on our behalf by countering the barrage of charges that Satan levels against us night and day?

Count on it and believe it! If you have been called by God and if you have received His Holy Spirit and have been converted, God knows YOU! He not only knows who you are, but He is involved in your life—day in and day out!

Sometimes, the stark reality of living in a dying society threatens to overwhelm us. At times, the press of personal and even global influences can distract and disorient us. When that happens, we must focus on our calling!

Brethren, we have been called into the knowledge of the truth of God. His great purpose in all of His creation is to add sons and daughters to His own Kind—to be made like Him and to become members of the Family of God!

In His majestic revelation to us, God has left words of abiding encouragement as reminders for us of how deeply He has offered His unfailing love toward His elect. Paul wrote of this to the Church at Ephesus:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7).

Then, note what is stated in verse 10: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”

In His preparation, God gave His Son to die for us—to pay the supreme price for our sins (Compare John 3:16). But that is not all! Jesus Christ now lives, and He serves as OUR High Priest (Compare Hebrews 8:1; 10:12-14). In Hebrews 9, verse 24, we find this statement about something that Christ fulfills as our High Priest, and that is “…now to appear in the presence of God FOR US.”

God called Paul into the truth—just as others, including ourselves, have been specially selected and offered an opportunity to have a part in the first resurrection—what the Bible speaks of as “…a better resurrection” (Hebrews 11:35). However, Paul’s calling was fraught with severe difficulties and great personal trials (Compare 2 Corinthians 11:22-28). Through all of this, take note of the confident assurance by which Paul sustained his hope in God’s calling:

“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

In the closing days of his life, Paul left this powerful testimony of God’s unfailing care for those He calls out of the world in this age:

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8).

If we truly love “His appearing,” we will continue to answer our own calling to be fervently and zealously involved in the Church of God and the Work given to the people of God!

We, as well as the billions of people alive today, face a future that God’s Word describes in sobering and frightening ways. World war will erupt in the near future that will be so catastrophic that human life will hang in the balance. Only God, by sending Jesus Christ to establish Godly rule on this earth, will stop this conflagration!

But before this, the modern houses of Israel and Judah will each suffer times of trouble that will lead to their downfall—even national captivity! Our booklets, titled “The Fall and Rise of Britain and America” and “The Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord,” powerfully warn of this coming period of devastation. Just as it was for Israel and Judah in the former periods, our peoples are not hearing nor heeding the messages of warning in our generation.

By July 5, 2007, the Church of the Eternal God will have reached its seventh year of corporate existence. Even though much has been accomplished during these past six years, much more work lies ahead for all of us.

While there is still time, WE must intensify our efforts to fulfill our part in lifting voices of alarm in the nations! And while there is still time, WE must make our own “call and election sure” (Compare 2 Peter 1:10-11)!

Get involved in YOUR calling, and stay engaged!

We have these words of help:

“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Brethren, here is how Jude concluded his letter to the Church of God in his day, and his proclamation should also stand as our encouragement for the challenges that now lie before us:

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen” (Jude, verses 24-25, NASB).

In Christ’s Service,

David J. Harris

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends:

When you receive this letter, the annual Holy Day of Pentecost will be only about two weeks away. It reminds us of the time when ancient Israel, according to tradition, received from God the two tablets of stone with the Law of the Ten Commandments, and when the New Testament Church collectively received God’s Holy Spirit to enable us to keep the Law. In addition, we reflect on our own individual calling and our receipt of the Holy Spirit, after our conversion and baptism.

Those of us who have been in God’s Church for a long time know from experience that Satan seems to be the busiest right before Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles. This is the case, as Satan hates the thought that God will soon end his rule over this earth, by sharing His government and Kingdom with us, who are now begotten of the Spirit, and who will then be born again. As the Passover season symbolizes the beginning, and the Tabernacles season the completion of God’s master plan for human beings, Satan is reminded of his fate, too. He is very angry that God’s people keep those days holy, by celebrating and rejoicing in their destiny and the hope and glory of God’s Kingdom and government over this earth, as well as Satan’s banishment (Romans 16:20).

From reports we have received, pertaining to all of the Church of God organizations, which comprise, collectively, the body of Christ, it appears that Satan has been extraordinarily busy this year, and that his evil activities have continued with full strength since the Passover. While the situation in the world is getting more dangerous, troublesome and explosive almost on a weekly basis, problems have also been facing God’s people, it seems, in an unparalleled way. Sometimes, of course, some of our problems are “self-inflicted,” and other problems will always confront us because we don’t live in God’s world, but Satan’s. We know that Satan will always be busy, walking about like a roaring lion to seek whom he can devour (1 Peter 5:8), and we also know the time of our salvation has drawn nearer, by any standard (Romans 13:11). But, as I said, it seems that this year, the enormity and frequency of individual trials and problems lead us to consider an additional possibility: Have we reached the time when Satan “has been cast down… [and] has come down to [us], HAVING GREAT WRATH, because he knows that he has a short time” (Revelation 12:10, 12)?

We might recall that Satan is a master of bringing upon us disillusionment and discouragement, through trials, temptations and problems. While God allows those difficulties to test us—so that we pass the tests and DON’T sin—Satan tempts us so that we DO sin. In times of serious trials and discouragement, we need to draw close to God, humbling ourselves under God’s mighty hand, and God promises us that Satan will be defeated (James 4:7-8, 10). Christ tells us in Revelation 12:11 that God’s people overcome Satan “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”

Remember when ancient Israel kept the very first Passover. The people found protection from God’s angel of death through the blood of the lambs at the doorposts of their houses. This symbolized and foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of the precious blood of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. On the first day of Unleavened Bread, at night, Israel left the captivity of Egypt with a high hand and great joy. They followed God’s lead Who showed them the way in a cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night. But Pharaoh pursued after them, trying to bring them back as his captives, or to destroy them. When Israel saw the Egyptian army, they became greatly afraid and discouraged. According to tradition, God parted the Red Sea and led them through the divided waters on the last Day of Unleavened Bread, while the Egyptians drowned when they tried it.

Pharaoh symbolizes Satan in this occurrence, and Israel’s crossing of the Red Sea symbolizes water baptism (1 Corinthians 10:1-2). God led the Israelites out of captivity and on to victory over Satan. By following God’s lead, they overcame their enemy.

But the story does not end here. On their way toward the Promised Land, the Israelites were confronted with more problems. First, they only found bitter water in the desert, which they could not drink; later, they could not find any water or meat. They began to murmur and complain against God, while losing all hope that God could save them from, and help them in their troubles. And even though He made the bitter water sweet; even though He gave them water from a rock; “angel’s food” or manna from heaven; and meat from the sky; they still continued to be frustrated and depressed, as well as filled with doubt that God was really with them, or that He could help them in seemingly hopeless situations.

Why did those doubts enter their minds and stay with them, even though they had seen God’s mighty hand time and again? Because Satan was still there! True, Pharaoh had drowned with his army in the Red Sea, but the real power behind Pharaoh, Satan the devil, was still very much alive. He continued to sow doubt, discontent, discouragement, and even outright rebellion among the children of Israel.

God led them to Mount Zion to give them the Ten Commandments—the Law which we are to follow today as well, so that we can LIVE and enter the Promised Land of God’s everlasting Kingdom (Deuteronomy 8:1). Ancient Israel, devoid of the Holy Spirit, could not and would not obey (Romans 8:7). And so, God founded the New Testament Church—spiritual Israel—on the Day of Pentecost, by giving it the Holy Spirit, thereby empowering it to keep the Law. But as Satan was present in ancient Israel’s times, AFTER they had received the LAW, so Satan was present in New Testament times, after the Church had been founded (Acts 5:3). And Satan is present and very active TODAY.

We have followed God’s lead, repented of our sins and left Satan’s captivity (2 Timothy 2:25-26); we have been forgiven of our past sins through the blood of the Lamb; we began to strive overcoming Satan, society and self; we have been baptized and received the Holy Spirit; and we continue to strive in our battles to conquer our spiritual enemies—but as ancient Israel could not obtain victory, apart from God (Deuteronomy 1:42-45), WE cannot, either, UNLESS we use God’s POWER and MIGHT in us to wage that war!

We are NOT fighting against flesh and blood—we have NOTHING to do with the wars of this world, be it in action or in word or even in thought—but we ARE fighting against the spiritual powers of darkness, Satan and his demons (Ephesians 6:10-20).

We see more and more the time of Christ’s return approaching (Hebrews 10:25; Philippians 4:5; James 5:8; Revelation 22:20). And so, our strength, patience and endurance will be tested more and more. God WILL give us victory—every time—when we truly submit to Him and His might—but we will lose out—every time—when we give in to Satan and his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11).

We must never be ignorant of what Satan has in mind. When we allow ourselves to become discouraged, we have become victims of Satan—and we must immediately get on our knees to ask God to forgive us and to give us His strength, power, hope, faith and CONVICTION that He will help us and that we CAN and WILL succeed and overcome our enemy. We might not always know what to do, or how victory will be given to us, but we must ALWAYS know that we never NEED to sin or give up—we never NEED to become discouraged and depressed, thinking that everything is hopeless, because the ONE Who is in us—Almighty God—is greater than the one who is in the world—Satan the devil (1 John 4:4).

Let us take the time to review and reflect on the meaning of Pentecost, as revealed in the Bible. And as we know its meaning, so does Satan. We LOVE the fact that the God of power, comfort and hope is our Helper, and that He has given us of His very Spirit, to make us partakers of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). But Satan HATES it. He is angry and full of destructive rage. He WILL try everything in his power to tempt us to give up. He will discourage us from following God, day and night, in the way that our Father wants us to live.

God will never leave us nor forsake us. He WILL show us the way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13)—whether we are passing through raging waters or walking through burning flames of fire (Isaiah 43:1-2)—so that we CAN endure whatever test and trial He ALLOWS to come our way. And God IS confident, as He was in the case of Job, that we WILL succeed (Philippians 1:3-6)! But we have to follow His lead. We have to want to succeed. We have to make every effort to succeed (1 Corinthians 9:24). And there is one thing we must NEVER do—become so discouraged that we are willing to give up.

If we do, Satan will have reached his goal of defeating us, and we will have lost. But God wants us to WIN. Don’t you?

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

We have recently been privileged to take the annual Passover as the Bible instructs, followed by the seven Days of Unleavened Bread. The more we keep these “feasts of the LORD” (Leviticus 23:2, 4, 44), the more we should appreciate what they really mean to us. Each year, over the course of about six months, we keep God’s annual Feasts (Leviticus 23:4) from the Passover in the early spring right through to the Holy Days in the autumn, which reveal what God has in store for His faithful and chosen people (1 Peter 2:9). Each year, our commitment should deepen as we look forward to a future of which the world has no concept or understanding.

God’s plan for the whole of mankind is so logical. Christ’s death on our behalf; putting sin out of our lives; the receiving of God’s Holy Spirit; Christ’s return; Satan being bound for 1,000 years; Christ ruling as Head of State in the Kingdom of God on the earth; and the Great White Throne Judgment when all who have died in ignorance of Christ’s supreme sacrifice will have their opportunity for salvation. God does not deal in a series of uncoordinated, meaningless and unbiblical days that have no relevance to His people either now or in the future. He reveals, through the power of His Holy Spirit, a plan of such breathtaking love and magnificence that we must ensure that we never become complacent with such revealed knowledge. It is truly exciting knowledge and understanding for those who remain steadfast and faithful to this way of life. Since that fateful day, nearly 2,000 years ago, when the New Testament Church of God came into being on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2), many have strayed from the knowledge of the truth and their marvelous calling.

Christ asked the question: “when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8).

He also said: “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:12-13).

Those of us who have held fast to the truth of the Living God, must continue to do so right up until the very end of our lives or to the return of Christ if that event precedes our death.

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, uses the analogy of a race where endurance is required (Hebrews 12:1), and where he was striving to ensure that he didn’t lose out (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). He realized that we can indeed lose out if we are not diligent in, and steadfast to, our calling. But we are involved in something infinitely greater and more important than a physical race. We are involved in a matter of life and death and once we have set our course, there can be no looking back (Luke 9:62). When we understand the enormity of what God has in store for us, looking back to our former life before baptism is something that will not interest us at all.

The Days of Unleavened Bread teach us that sin is our enemy and MUST be put out of our lives. Society, however, travels along a different path diametrically opposed to the way of God. That is hardly surprising because, Satan, the god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4), has deceived the whole world (Revelation 12:9). We are swimming against the tide of society which becomes more hedonistic as each day goes by. God will not allow this to go on forever. There will be an accounting and we must not be found wanting. The next Holy Day in God’s marvelous plan is Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on those who repented and were baptized (Acts 2:38). With the help of God’s Holy Spirit, which was given to us at baptism, we can move forward to put sin out of our lives. Again, the logical pattern of God’s Holy Days can be clearly seen. How grateful we should all be to understand such wonderful information.

As we see conditions in the world worsening by the day, the anticipation of our future in the Kingdom of God is wonderful revealed knowledge—exciting beyond words. Holding on to our marvelous calling with increasing fervency is a sure fire way to ensure a glorious future for eternity!

In Genesis 11, we see that God was so unhappy with man’s conduct thousands of years ago that He said that “now nothing will be restrained from them” (Verse 6, Authorized Version). And that is precisely the same approach that we see today in an ever increasingly secular society in western nations. God is not in the picture and His Name is blasphemed in every strata of society and by all age groups, even the very young. The ungodly and unbiblical theory of evolution is taught as fact (For a thorough discussion of that man-made idea, please read our free booklet, “The Theory of Evolution—A Fairy Tale for Adults? ”) God’s ways are seen as unnecessary and the blessings for obedience for our nations—especially Great Britain and the United States of America (Leviticus 26:1-13 and Deuteronomy 28:1-14)—are now surely a thing of the past (For more information, you might want to read our free booklet, “The Fall and Rise of Britain and America.”)

God is patient, much more than any human being. He will send His Son, Jesus Christ, back to this earth at precisely the right time, but as we await that climactic event, the Holy Days point us in the direction that we should live our lives. Putting sin out of our lives is the lesson that the Days of Unleavened Bread teach us, and using the gift of the Holy Spirit—as the next Holy Day, Pentecost, clearly reveals—enables us to progress steadfastly and faithfully towards the Kingdom of God. We will need to keep ourselves continually “unspotted from the world” (James 1:27) and to ensure that our wonderful calling is faithfully adhered to. Then, all that effort will be rewarded beyond our wildest dreams in the future when we shall be like Jesus Christ (1 John 3:2).

What a future to look forward to, and with such anticipation! Let us never take this precious knowledge for granted. Our reward is guaranteed if we remain steadfast and loyal to God, and the right knowledge of Passover, the Days of Unleavened Bread and Pentecost are Feast days and Holy Days in the plan of God that will help us achieve that end. To prepare for the Feast of Pentecost, please be sure to read the pertinent sections in our free booklet, “The Meaning of God’s Spring Holy Days.”

With Christian love,

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Download PDF

Dear Members, Co-Workers and Friends:

Do we realize how much this world is in utter confusion; how close we are to the return of Christ; and how great our responsibility is to do the Work of God—the most important activity anyone could be involved in? But do we also really understand that Christ will only return, when the true gospel of the Kingdom of God has been preached and when His wife—His true Church—has made herself ready (Matthew 24:14; Revelation 19:7-9)?

As a consequence, our annual conference in San Diego focused on the all-important duty and two-fold commission of the Church of God to preach the gospel and to feed the flock. We would like to thank all of you for your prayers for a successful conference, and we are pleased to say that your prayers have been answered.

We decided during the conference to buy new equipment, including an additional camera, a duplication machine for CDs and DVDs, as well as a laptop and software. These purchases will be necessary to improve the quality and dynamics of our StandingWatch programs, and to continue broadcasting our Church services live and posting our video-recorded sermons on the Internet. We also set aside specified amounts for Internet advertisement campaigns in the UK, USA and Canada, and we committed to conducting at least one additional Public Bible lecture by the end of June—this time in the San Diego area.

We will produce several new booklets this year in the English language, including one on God’s Fall Holy Days and one on the Authority of the Bible. Translations of our booklets in German will continue, and current translations can be found on our new German Website, AufPostenStehen. We will also be concentrating on producing StandingWatch programs in the German and French languages.

In the USA and Canada, we are very pleased to enclose with this letter a hard copy of our new booklet, “The True Meaning of God’s Spring Holy Days.” This booklet was recently sent out in the UK, where it was printed. It was written to assist you in diligently preparing, especially at this time of the year, for the annual observance of the Passover and Unleavened Bread. We are commanded in God’s Word to examine ourselves before we partake of the annual Passover symbols of bread and wine, and we therefore need to set aside extra time within the remaining weeks before Passover (which will be observed during the evening of April 1), to study the relevant Scriptures quoted in the enclosed booklet. We ought to take every opportunity to insure that we will partake of the Passover in a worthy manner, and that we will continue to overcome and remove the “leaven” of sin.

It must be realized, however, that God did not call us for the sole purpose of “making it into His

Kingdom.” He called each and every one of us to do a job—to participate in the furtherance of His Work here on earth, for the purpose of helping others. Christ finished the work which God gave Him to do (John 17:4)—and so must we fulfill the task which God has assigned to each of us (1 Corinthians 15:58). As has been emphasized so many times, God’s Work moves forward on our knees! We must not be negligent in praying regularly to God for His Work—asking Him to bless it physically and spiritually, to send more laborers into His harvest, and to make His Will known for the many different facets of His—Work—including even such issues as whether or not to move personnel and activities to different locations.

During the conference, we were sadly reminded of the fact that Edwin Pope is no longer with us, and his presence was greatly missed. We had a very meaningful and emotional memorial service in Chula Vista, CA, on Sunday, February 11. We would like to thank all of you—including those from other Church of God organizations—who attended the service or the previous funeral service in Columbus, Georgia, as well as those who sent their condolences, even though they were unable to attend. We might be in different human organizations, but we are all brethren and members of the Church of God—the Body of Christ, which is a spiritual organism—as long as God’s Spirit dwells within us. And as brethren, we must love one another (1 Thessalonians 4:9), and if and when we do, the world will know that we are Christ’s disciples (John 13:35). To respect the memory of Mr. Pope, one of God’s true servants, by attending a memorial service in his honor, is just one way of showing God’s love to others.

Dear brethren and friends, as we said at the beginning of this letter, the end of this present civilization is fast approaching. Man will experience terrible times before Christ returns to bring peace to this war-stricken planet. Many have lost hope for a better future. Many don’t know what will happen to them when they die! According to Der Spiegel Online of February 16, only two-thirds of registered Catholics and only one-half of registered Protestants in Germany believe in God; and at the same time one-fourth of registered Swiss Catholics have accepted the eastern teaching of reincarnation, while rejecting the truth of the resurrection.

This is just one example of the hopeless confusion in today’s world. Do we realize that ONLY God’s Church has answers to man’s fundamental questions, including why man was created and what his ultimate potential is; who and what God is; and how to worship God in spirit and in truth? But with understanding comes responsibility. It is up to us to bring HOPE to this hopeless world (1 Thessalonians 4:13). When we preach and confess our hope in God (compare Acts 24:15; 23:6), we CAN and DO bring hope to those who hear and accept the message. Brethren, in doing so, God may use us to change the lives of others for the better (1 John 3:3).

What an awesome opportunity, challenge and commission! And so, dear brethren, please pray that God’s Will of preaching the gospel and feeding the flock be done on earth. PRAY that God will grant all of us the zeal, dedication and enthusiasm to be involved in His Work! Please pray for godly wisdom to make right decisions in the furtherance of His Work, and let us never forget to give all glory to God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ—the living and eternal Head of His Church.

In Christian love,

Norbert Link

Dave Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Dear Brethren, Co-Workers and Friends:

During this past Christmas season and the New Year’s celebrations, I was again struck by the fact of how much this world is in utter confusion and bewilderment. Christmas “messages” on Christ’s birth on December 25 were circulated, even though He was not, and could not possibly have been born in the middle of winter. It was also claimed by many that with His birth, peace had entered the world.

However, we have not seen peace for the last 2,000 years, and Christ Himself said that He did not come to bring peace, but the sword (Matthew 10:34). He did not mean, of course, that His servants should take up literal swords to fight others (compare Matthew 26:52)—but that His true gospel message would divide those who are of God and those who are of this world (Matthew 10:35-36; John 15:18-19).

Christ came to bring peace “for all those pleasing Him” (Luke 2:14, Living Bible)—not for this present evil world which is living in darkness and which is ruled by Satan and his demons (1 Thessalonians 5:4-5; Ephesians 6:12).

“Christmas messages” might have also mentioned, in passing, the return of Christ at the last day to resurrect those who died in Him—without giving any clear explanation as to what is meant by those phrases. Obvious inconsistencies within orthodox Christianity remained unrealized or were simply ignored; such as, why would “saints” who are allegedly in heaven (as is wrongly believed) need to be resurrected; and why would Christ come back to this earth to bring peace and—in the minds of some preachers—some kind of a nebulous godly Kingdom, if Christ already brought peace to this world 2,000 years ago, and if—as is also wrongly taught—the Kingdom of God has already been established in our hearts?

As I said, all these false teachings cloud the true meaning and purpose of WHO God is, what He is DOING today, and WHY man was created in the first place. God has called us to an understanding which escapes this world’s comprehension. We are privileged to know what has been given to only a very few in this day and age—but with revealed knowledge comes responsibility!

When Christ returns, this world will be at WAR—not at peace. If Christ was not to return, no human being would be saved alive. Some falsely teach that at the time of Christ’s return, no human being will have survived—but this concept is clearly without Biblical basis (compare Isaiah 1:9; 11:11; 24:6). Many WILL die in the terrible worldwide battles to ensue—but not all. Some will be spared. In fact, some in the Church will be protected during this terrible time which is called the “Great Tribulation” in Scripture (Isaiah 33:14-16).

God called us today to prepare spiritually for these traumatic events—and for Christ’s return, to

rule with Him ON this earth, and OVER this earth, for a thousand years (Revelation 5:10; 20:4-6). In addition, we are to warn this world of impending disaster so that perhaps some might listen, wake up and change their ways (Isaiah 21:6-9; Ezekiel 33:1-11). We are also to show how we can have peace, comfort and hope in the face of suffering, pain, bloodshed and death. First, we need to acquire these godly qualities ourselves (compare John 16:33; 14:27), and then, we are to teach others about them.

To help you with this two-fold individual charge, we are enclosing in the USA our new booklet which addresses the undeniable facts and the reasons for all the many sufferings in this world, as well as the trials which we experience in our own Christian lives (This booklet has already been distributed in the UK where it was printed). It is titled, “Human Suffering, Why… And How Much Longer?” When we go through trials, we need to know why they come, and how to cope with them. Rather than falling into utter despair and depression, God offers us peace and HOPE, even in our trials. God tells us what we need to do to enjoy HIS comfort, and to be able to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Our new booklet gives you answers which you should not be without.

Before we may fully realize it, the Feasts of Passover and Unleavened Bread will be upon us. In furtherance of our two-fold collective commission to preach the gospel and to feed the flock, we are working on a new booklet, explaining the meaning of Passover, Unleavened Bread and Pentecost. We hope to be able to distribute this new booklet to all of you well ahead of Passover, to help you prepare for these all-important Festivals. In addition to our weekly Standing Watch programs, we have also begun to place selected video-taped sermons on Google Video. So far, sermons on the books of Jonah, Ezra and Nehemiah have been made public through Google, as well as sermons on idolatry and Christian suffering. We intend to continue making this service available for all those who may be or become interested in the correct understanding of God’s Word.

We are also planning a memorial service in the San Diego area for Edwin Pope, our beloved Senior Pastor, who died on December 7. We have decided to conduct our annual Conference at a time coinciding with the memorial service, to enable our international ministers and their wives to attend. The tentative dates for the Conference are February 9-14, with the memorial service to be held on Sunday, February 11. If you would like to attend this special memorial service, please contact us for further details.

More and more devastating developments are occurring in this world, showing us that the night is far spent, and the day of Christ’s return is at hand (Romans 13:12). We are confronted, almost on a daily or weekly basis, with religious confusion, wars, rumors of wars, and natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes, mudslides, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, horrible weather conditions, as well as famine and disease epidemics (compare Matthew 24:5-8). The NEXT prophesied event in the Bible is, clearly, the Great Tribulation (Matthew 24:9-22; Luke 21:20-24)! The time for the Church of God to finish its commission of preaching the gospel to this world is getting shorter (Mark 13:10; John 9:4).

Let us stay united in this most important, colossal task in which God’s people must be engaged. God WANTS the gospel to be preached, and He will give His Church all the means and the much needed help to fulfill His Will. And every member is to supply his part to the body (compare 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

Thank, you, brethren, on behalf of Jesus Christ, the LIVING Head of His Church, for your continued loyalty and dedication to God’s great Master Plan.

With Christian love,

Norbert Link

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

We are writing this letter following the death of Edwin Pope, Senior Pastor and President of the Church of the Eternal God in the United States, the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada, and the Global Church of God in Great Britain. Mr. Pope died on December 7, 2006, following complications from a heart attack four weeks earlier.

This traumatic loss has and will continue to leave an impact on all of us. We all recognize that someone such as Edwin Pope, who remained a faithful minister throughout the upheaval of past years, will be greatly missed. Mrs. Joan Pope and we have received many messages from friends and relatives, as well as ministers and members from different Church organizations all over the world, expressing their heartfelt condolences and their recognition of the great loss of such a fine minister as Mr. Pope. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers, thoughtfulness and kindness.

Edwin dedicated his life to God’s Way. In doing that, he was especially committed to holding onto and preserving God’s truth. He understood that his role might end before the job of preaching the Gospel was finished—and so it has. He also sought to GROW in understanding as God revealed more knowledge.

Mr. Pope has given us a legacy of perseverance in trying times. His dedication for the truth of God is most assuredly a shining example for all of us to embrace and to follow. And Edwin would be the first to tell all of us to CONTINUE in the Work of our great God.

In his Editorial in Update #271, December 8, 2006, Rene Messier stated, “We pause but do not stop. We reflect but keep going.” Also, Norbert Link wrote in his Editorial in Update #272, December 15, 2006, “But even though we mourn, we do not despair. Even though we reflect, we do not lose hope.”

This is the way we all must face the death of a faithful Christian—especially one who has set such a gentle and loving example for all these many years in the Church of God.

To lose such a fine minister like Mr. Pope will have an impact on all of us. His contributions to the Work of God will have to be carried forward by others. But God WILL provide for necessary helpers, and for this we are truly thankful. At the same time, Christ asks all of us to pray that our Father send us more laborers for His harvest.

We must understand, brethren, that this is NOT the work of men. Rather, we are part of the Body of CHRIST—and it is Christ, the Head of His Body, Who directs and leads us. We prayed earnestly for Mr. Pope’s healing, but God decided otherwise. We know that God has all the answers—even when we don’t—and He does not forsake us, as long as we don’t forsake Him. Edwin did not die because of time and chance—God is in TOTAL control, and He decided that Edwin had run and completed his race, to be resurrected in the next second of His consciousness in indescribable glory and awesome power in the very Kingdom of God! Edwin has finished his part within the Work of God, but our part in God’s Work continues.

Brethren, because Jesus Christ is the living Head of His Church, we can and will go forward in confidence. New opportunities to build on the firm foundation that has been laid are opening to us. We are especially pleased that younger members are being used more and more powerfully in God’s service. Certainly, that provision was something Mr. Pope had a hand in developing, and he strongly encouraged and supported it.

Recently, new readers have contacted us after they read some of the comprehensive booklets we offer. We have placed sermons and StandingWatch commentaries on Google Video. We should soon receive our new booklet on suffering from the printer and intend to distribute it to all of you within less than a month. A booklet on the meaning of the Feasts of Passover, Unleavened Bread and Pentecost has been written and has entered the first review cycle. We hope to be able to publish this new booklet well ahead of Passover of 2007, to assist in the preparation for these important Festivals. A booklet on the Fall Holy Days and Festivals will be written and published later in the year of 2007. The weekly Updates will continue with important news and in-depth Biblical teachings—and Church members and non-members alike are expressing their gratitude for this unique and helpful publication.

We are planning our annual Conference for early next year, and will soon announce the time and place for a Memorial Service for Mr. Pope. We have also selected and contracted for Feast of Tabernacles sites next year in both the USA and the UK.

More and more, we are using the Internet to publish and proclaim the Gospel, and we have a very talented group who have gone over and above in volunteer service to create, maintain and develop our websites in the USA, Canada, Great Britain and Germany. People anywhere in the world, who have access to the Internet, can hear sermons, study our in-depth booklets and literature and participate in Sabbath Services. In addition, those who do not have access to the Internet can receive our audio tapes and hard copies of our literature.

But all the credit for what we were granted to already accomplish, and what we will continue to accomplish, goes to GOD. And we DO believe Christ’s promise which He gave to His Church: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father” (John 14:12).

Brethren, our part in God’s Work is before us!

When all of us regrouped a few years ago, we found comfort in this statement from God in Zechariah 4:10: “For who has despised the day of SMALL THINGS?” In the same chapter, in verse 6, we also found our strength to continue: “‘Not by might nor by power, but BY MY SPIRIT,’ says the LORD of hosts.”

And so it is NOW, brethren! Even in the face of such great personal loss to all of us in the Church of God, we are going forward! We just have no choice in this, if we want to follow God’s directives. We MUST continue to be involved in His Work.

Thank you all, for your loving faithfulness to the Truth of God!

In Christ’s Service, your brothers in Christ,

Norbert Link

David Harris

Rene Messier

Brian Gale

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends:

Johanna and I arrived back safely in the U.S. on Sunday night, October 29, after a spiritually uplifting Feast in England and a subsequent visit with our relatives in Germany. During the Feast, we heard inspiring messages, comparing this present evil world with the wonderful world tomorrow, which is soon to be inaugurated by Jesus Christ at His return.

While the current British and German governments struggle to stay in power, the United States has been heavily focused on its political elections. The more one observes the politics of this world in the light of godly instructions and the future, when God’s Kingdom will rule, one understands WHY God’s true Church does not get involved in political campaigns, governmental elections and the endorsement of political candidates.

This is, indeed, Satan’s world—not God’s! Jesus Christ told us to come OUT OF this world. He told Pilate that His kingdom was NOT from here. In addition, God IS working out a plan down here below, and He places—or allows being placed—certain candidates in temporary offices to fulfill His plan. This does not mean—by any stretch of the imagination—that true Christians should vote for those candidates, even if we were to know who they ought to be. God saw to it that Adolph Hitler and Benito Mussolini came to power to bring about the prophesied ninth resurrection of the ancient Roman Empire—but no Christian should have voted for them.

While overseas, I had opportunity to read Bob Woodward’s latest book, entitled, “State of Denial.” Woodward is assistant managing editor of the conservative paper, The Washington Post. In his thoroughly researched book, he takes the position that some of the key players in the Bush Administration, being divided amongst themselves, started the war against Iraq without any viable concept of subsequent necessary action after the invasion. Overwhelmed by reality, they proceeded to habitually ignore or downplay the chaotic conditions following the initial occupation. Even two days after the release of a secret report of the intelligence division of May 24, 2006, painting a terribly bleak picture and predicting even more violence by the insurgency, the Pentagon sent a required public report to Congress, placing “the most positive spin on stability and security” (Woodward, page 476).

When reading about the events revealed in Woodward’s book, I was reminded at times of the war propaganda in World War II, when Germany still proclaimed victory in Russia after the devastation of German troops at Stalingrad. When the truth about the events at the Eastern Front could not be suppressed any longer, the German public media announced “Germany’s victorious retreat” (“Deutschlands siegreicher Rueckzug”).

Truly, that was “politics” in its “purest” form! It just goes against human nature to admit mistakes or defeat.

Returning to the situation in Iraq, even though it should have been clear from the very outset that America’s ambitious endeavor to establish democracy in Iraq was predestined to failure, that realization has now become the recognized grim reality for most observers. But originally, neither the Republican nor the Democratic parties were willing to admit or even see this fact. They all, as a whole, voted for and endorsed the Iraq war. And even today, some seem to continue to behave like the proverbial ostrich with its head in the sand. Woodward quoted a high-ranking governmental official stating as late as May of 2006 that he had “zero doubt that we have done the right thing” (Woodward, page 476). Der Spiegel Online wrote on November 2, 2006, that “the situation in Iraq is a total catastrophe,” and that the Republicans and “the Democrats have no concept as to how to save Iraq.”

As some of you will perhaps recall, I stated at the very beginning of the Iraqi war that America would NOT be successful in its endeavor. Some complained about my strong stance at that time, questioning how I could be that “dogmatic” about it.

The simple answer is that the Bible clearly reveals this fact. Of course, Scripture does not say, specifically, that America would start a war against Iraq and ultimately lose it. But it DOES say that, once we have reached a certain time period, America will not win ANY more wars. We have reached that prophetic time! As the late Herbert W. Armstrong repeatedly emphasized, “America HAS WON its LAST war.” No matter how desperately we might be trying to proclaim victory in the face of defeat, God has withdrawn His protection from this great country, due to the abominable atrocities committed by large portions of its population.

Even though claiming to be a God-fearing people, God calls our nation an “ungodly nation” (Isaiah 10:6), which is filled with bloodshed and violence and all kinds of sexual perversions; which involves itself with eastern religions, astrology and witchcraft (Isaiah 2:6); which refuses to keep holy the days God has ordained; and which observes demonic pagan holidays such as Halloween—and so much so that other countries, such as Germany, have adopted that evil custom and have begun to keep it as well. America is destined to fall, and no party, no governmental official and no president will be able to prevent it—unless this nation repents of its God-defying abominations.

For more information, as to what IS prophesied to happen to the United States of America, Great Britain, Canada, Australia and other English-speaking nations, as well as the entire world, please make sure to read or re-read our free booklets, “The Great Tribulation and the Day of the Lord,” “The Fall and Rise of Britain and America,” and “Europe in Prophecy.”

It is the duty of God’s Church to blow the trumpet and show the nations of the modern houses of Israel and Judah their sins and transgressions (Isaiah 58:1). Some might listen and repent and be spared from the evil which IS to befall this world. Christ challenged and admonished us to watch unfolding prophesied events and to pray always to be counted worthy to escape all those things which shall surely come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, at His return (Luke 21:36).

In order to help you to pray more effectively, we have prepared a new comprehensive booklet, titled “Teach Us To Pray.” We are enclosing a copy for those of you who have not received their copy. It is our hope that you will use this new booklet repeatedly and consistently, as a help and guide, to be able to pray with more understanding, endurance, boldness and spiritual power. We are told that the effective fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much (James 5:16).

Keep watching, brethren, and keep praying. The time of Christ’s return is drawing near. The ways of this world will end soon. Politics and political campaigns, as well as human misrule, will come to an end.

Let’s thank God for that!

With Christian love,

Norbert Link

Download PDF

Dear Brethren and Friends,

During this month of September, we will begin to observe the third season of God’s Holy Days in this year (Compare Exodus 23:14-17; 34:22-24). For those who love God, this will be a time of great importance and joy; however, for our relatives and friends in the world, the true meaning of what we do is hidden and will, at best, seem a little unusual!

Jesus Christ revealed the greater meaning of Passover when He instituted the practices of foot washing, of breaking bread and of drinking wine—all of which the Church of God is commanded to observe. Regarding this, Paul states: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26).

Again, on the Day of Pentecost, the wonderful master plan of God grew clearer as God sent the gift of His Holy Spirit to those who had obeyed Jesus and had faithfully remained in Jerusalem. Likewise, others became obedient to the faith—also receiving the Spirit of God, and so it has continued until our time for those who yield to God and seek to walk in His Way (Compare Acts 5:32).

Consider that at the time of Pentecost mentioned in Acts, the number of those who were together “…was about a hundred and twenty” (Acts 1:15). What happened to the many thousands who personally saw and heard Jesus preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God? Several statements in God’s Word recount how people rejected Jesus and what He taught. However, note—in particular—this testimony by one of Christ’s apostles: “But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him” (John 12:37).

For those who did believe in Jesus, the door of understanding opened before them. They became brethren of Jesus Christ and fellow members of the Church of God with the unparalleled destiny to become bornagain children of God! For all who have died and who have remained faithful in their lifetimes, the certainty of their resurrection to eternal life in the Family of God awaits.

Many nominal Christians who do not keep the Holy Days of God are confused about man’s destiny. They believe strange doctrines rooted in paganism, and although they profess to know God, they are living their lives without Him (Compare Matthew 15:7-9 and Ephesians 2:11-12).

In the long history of the nation of Israel, the Holy Days often fell by the wayside. This took a particularly unfortunate turn when God placed Jeroboam over the ten tribes of Israel. In order to keep the loyalty of these tribes, Jeroboam tragically chose to reject the revealed Feast Days of God: “So he made offerings on the altar which he had made at Bethel on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, in the month which he had devised in his own heart. And he ordained a feast for the children of Israel, and offered sacrifices on the altar and burned incense” (1 Kings 12:33).

The course of rebellion chosen by Jeroboam exacted a frightful consequence: “And this thing was the sin of the house of Jeroboam, so as to exterminate and destroy it from the face of the earth” (1 Kings 13:34).

In a later period, Hezekiah, king of Judah, wrote letters to Ephraim and Manasseh encouraging them to join in keeping the Passover. In it he said: “‘…Children of Israel, return to the LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel; then He will return to the remnant of you who have escaped from the hand of the kings of Assyria’” (2 Chronicles 30:6).

Here is how most of these remnant members of the decimated House of Israel responded: “So the runners passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh, as far as Zebulun; but they laughed at them and mocked them” (2 Chronicles 30:10).

Yet, this effort on Hezekiah’s part to re-establish national observance of God’s Holy Days did bear some fruit: “Nevertheless some from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem. Also the hand of God was on Judah to give them singleness of heart to obey the command of the king and the leaders, at the word of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 30:11-12).

In prophetic terms surrounding the coming time period, called the “day of the LORD,” God powerfully rejects the observance of self-appointed holidays such as Halloween, Christmas or Easter—which were invented by men: “‘I hate, I despise your feast days, And I do not savor your sacred assemblies… Take away from Me the noise of your songs, For I will not hear the melody of your stringed instruments’” (Amos 5:21 and 23). You might want to review our booklet, “Don’t Keep Christmas,” to see how this false observance arose out of totally pagan religious practices.

Jesus very specifically taught what His disciples should be watching for that would signal His return.

We know that these events will arise and culminate in one generation: “‘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’” (Matthew 24:33-34).

In our time, God’s Holy Days have once again been observed by God’s Church according to God’s instructions. Tens of thousands of people from nations all over the earth came to understand and to observe the holy convocations of God.

In this generation, a great falling away from this revelation has also occurred! Now the people who were called by God are not unified and far too many follow what has been devised in the hearts of men. Some have changed even the times of observance. Now, there are people who attend Feast Days for social and traditional reasons, alone. Others might be motivated by feelings of obligation and guilt—but they do not act out of love for God and for His perfect law!

We find God’s view in all of this in statements about the weekly Sabbath—the first day of God’s commanded holy time: “‘If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, From doing your pleasure on My holy day, And call the Sabbath a delight, The holy day of the LORD honorable, And shall honor Him, not doing your own ways, Nor finding your own pleasure, Nor speaking your own words, Then you shall delight yourself in the LORD; And I will cause you to ride on the high hills of the earth, And feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father. The mouth of the LORD has spoken’” (Isaiah 58:13-14).

Brethren, there are inestimable promises of blessings from God in observing the weekly and annual Holy Days. In them, God reveals His plan for mankind. In them, we gain the broad historic perspective of when God will establish His Kingdom through the promised return of our Savior and King, Jesus Christ!

In them, we are told to rejoice: “‘And you shall rejoice in your feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant and your female servant and the Levite, the stranger and the fatherless and the widow, who are within your gates’” (Deuteronomy 16:14).

We live in terrible times of violence! The world, in which we live, for its part, faces a hopeless future of devastation and war that threatens the planet-wide extinction of life!

We, however, do have hope—boundless, brimful and running over! Why? Because we know that God, for whom it is impossible to lie (Compare Titus 1:2), has promised to save mankind. In particular, He has promised to intervene on our behalf—we who are among His elect (Compare Matthew 24:22).

Through God’s revelation in His Holy Days, we now picture a future time of God’s intervention in this world’s affairs and a time leading to peace and abundance for all.

Already, we are participating—in type—in the kingdom that God will soon establish! It is vital that we do this! Read in Malachi 3, verses 16-18, what God has in store for those who are faithful to Him at this time!

Once again, not unlike the remnant left to Israel but now encompassing all nations of the earth, the call to keep the Feasts of God will go forth: “And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles” (Zechariah 14:16).

Enter this time, this third season in the year, with “a singleness of heart” to obey God. Determine to keep these Feast Days with a renewed spirit of rejoicing. Review, beforehand, the sections in your Bible regarding the upcoming Feast Days: Trumpets, Atonement, the Feast of Tabernacle and the Last Great Day. Our booklet, “God’s Commanded Holy Days,” will help you do this.

This year, make that extra effort to help your spiritual brethren, in whatever way possible, to also rejoice in God’s Feast Days! In addition, let your light shine brightly to those who do not understand the tremendous truth of this time—the ones whose minds the god of this age has blinded (Compare 2 Corinthians 4:4)!

Above all, let the love of God bear fruit in your life!

In Christ’s Service,

David J. Harris