PastorAbishek

15/07/2025

"I cry alone" Those words had me.

The unseen courage of families who follow the call

12/07/2025

O Gracious God, whose wisdom knows no end,
Upon these leaders, now Your Spirit send.
For five years hence, a vision they must cast,
To guide Your church, enduring to the last.

Grant them discernment, clear and pure and deep,
As promises of future they now keep.
May every plan, each strategy they draw,
Reflect Your will, Your love, Your holy law.

Inspire their hearts with courage strong and true,
To innovate, to dare, to make things new,
Yet hold to truth, unyielding and steadfast,
The "everlasting gospel," holding fast.

Bless their discussions, unify their thought,
May self be lost, and Your great kingdom sought.
Give them compassion for a world in need,
To sow Your truth, and plant a righteous seed.

Protect their minds from doubt, their steps from ill,
That Your great purpose they may well fulfill.
And as they lead, through challenges and grace,
May Christ's own character shine from each face.

So bless them, Lord, with wisdom from above,
And crown their efforts with Your boundless love.
Amen.

04/06/2025

Imagine a bicycle longer than two blue whales, stretching an incredible 180 feet! This isn't a figment of imagination, but a real-life marvel recently certified as the world's longest rideable bicycle by Guinness World Records. A team of eight dedicated engineering enthusiasts from the Netherlands, led by Ivan Schalk, brought this colossal creation to life. Ivan's dream to build such a bike began in childhood, fueled by a Guinness World Records book. Despite the immense challenge, and even a two-year interruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic, their perseverance, ingenuity, and teamwork led them to achieve this seemingly impossible feat. With one person steering at the front and another pedaling at the back, they successfully rode the colossal bicycle over a 100-meter distance.

This incredible story of dedication, teamwork, and overcoming significant obstacles powerfully reminds us of a profound truth found in Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Just as Ivan and his team, driven by a vision, applied their skills and collaborated to construct and ride this extraordinary bicycle, we too are called to pursue the dreams and challenges God places before us. Often, the paths we're meant to walk can seem daunting, or even impossible, when viewed through our limited human strength. We might face setbacks, delays, or unforeseen obstacles, much like the pandemic interrupted the bike builders' progress.

However, Philippians 4:13 serves as a powerful anchor. It's not a promise that every endeavor will be easy, or that we'll achieve every worldly ambition. Rather, it's a profound declaration of the boundless strength available to us through our relationship with Christ. When we surrender our plans to Him, lean on His wisdom, and draw from His inexhaustible power, what once seemed impossible becomes attainable.

Consider the words of Matthew 19:26: "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'" This verse underscores the divine power that transcends human limitations, reinforcing that what we perceive as impossible is well within God's capabilities.

The engineers didn't build the bike alone; they worked as a team. Similarly, our Christian walk isn't meant to be solitary. When we collaborate with God and allow Him to empower us, we can navigate the longest and most challenging "rides" of our lives. As Proverbs 16:3 encourages, "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." This wisdom urges us to involve God in our endeavors from the outset, trusting that His guidance will lead to success and stability, much like the meticulous planning that went into building the world's longest bike.

And for those moments when the journey feels too long or weariness sets in, remember **Isaiah 40:31: "but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."This verse speaks to the **enduring strength and resilience that come from patiently trusting in the Lord, enabling us to overcome weariness and faintness, just as the team persevered through years of work to achieve their goal.

The story of the 180-foot bike is a testament to what human determination can accomplish. How much more can we achieve when we are empowered by divine strength?

What "long bike ride" or seemingly impossible challenge are you facing today? How can you lean on Christ's strength to navigate it, trusting that with Him, you can do all things He calls you to do?

The world's longest bicycle has been built in the Netherlands, measuring an incredible 55.16 metres (180 ft 11 in) - around the same length as two blue whales.

03/06/2025

Genesis 48 paints a tender and profound picture of an aged Jacob, on his deathbed, bestowing a patriarchal blessing upon Joseph's two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. It's a scene rich with familial love, spiritual insight, and a powerful foreshadowing of God’s redemptive plan.

Jacob, with failing eyesight but clear spiritual vision, insists on placing his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son, and his left on Manasseh, the elder. Joseph attempts to correct his father, believing it to be a mistake. Yet, Jacob, guided by divine intuition, declares, "I know, my son, I know. He also shall become a people, an he also shall be great; nevertheless, his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his offspring shall become a multitude of nations" (Genesis 48:19).

This act of reversal is deeply significant. It echoes God's consistent pattern throughout Scripture of choosing the seemingly less likely, the younger, or the overlooked, to accomplish His greater purposes. From Abel over Cain, Isaac over Ishmael, and eventually David over his older brothers, God demonstrates that His ways are not our ways, and His power is perfected in weakness.

Moreover, Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh is a testament to the enduring power of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Though far from the Promised Land, Jacob, by faith, embraces his grandsons as part of the lineage through whom God’s blessings would flow to all nations. He blesses them with the very promises of fruitfulness and multiplication, ensuring the continuation of the family line and the fulfillment of God’s promises. This act of adoption and blessing truly makes them integral to the tribes of Israel, cementing their place in God's unfolding story.

Reflection Questions:
Where in your life have you witnessed God reversing human expectations or choosing the "unlikely" to accomplish His will?

How does Jacob's intentional act of blessing Ephraim over Manasseh challenge your own preconceived notions of status, privilege, or who God might choose to use?

Considering Jacob's faith in blessing his grandsons despite being far from the Promised Land, what "impossible" or long-term promises of God are you holding onto by faith today?

02/06/2025

In an age brimming with endless entertainment, instant information, and constant connectivity, a peculiar paradox is taking hold: we're increasingly finding ourselves bored. From scrolling aimlessly through social media to staring blankly at a TV screen, a pervasive sense of dullness seems to be creeping into our daily lives, leaving us restless and unfulfilled. How can a world designed for ultimate stimulation be breeding such widespread ennui?

The answer lies in a complex interplay of psychological, technological, and societal factors, primarily centered around our digital saturation.

The Tyranny of Constant Stimulation
Our smartphones, tablets, and streaming services have become extensions of ourselves, offering an unparalleled stream of novelty. This constant bombardment of information, notifications, and rapidly changing content has fundamentally altered our brains' reward systems. We've developed a heightened baseline for what constitutes "sufficiently engaging." Activities that once brought quiet pleasure – reading a book, a deep conversation, or simply observing the world around us – now feel comparatively slow, dull, or even taxing.

This isn't just about passive consumption; it's about the very nature of digital engagement. The quick-hit dopamine rushes of likes, shares, and fleeting videos train our attention spans to be brief and fragmented.1 When confronted with an activity demanding sustained focus – the kind that leads to genuine engagement and satisfaction – our minds, accustomed to rapid shifts, struggle to settle. The irony is, the more we try to stave off boredom by constantly switching between digital distractions, the more bored and less satisfied we become.2

The Erosion of Meaningful Engagement and "Flow"
Boredom often arises when our minds aren't genuinely challenged or absorbed.3 In our modern routines, many tasks can feel repetitive or predictable, offering little room for growth or intellectual stimulation. We crave "flow," that elusive state of complete immersion where a task is just challenging enough to keep us engrossed, yet perfectly matched to our abilities. Yet, finding this sweet spot is increasingly difficult. Our work often demands either mindless repetition or overwhelming complexity, leaving little room for the joyful exertion of focused effort.

Furthermore, a lack of autonomy can fuel boredom.4 Feeling trapped in activities over which we have little control, whether in our personal lives or professional roles, significantly diminishes our sense of agency and contribution, leading to disengagement.

Psychological Undercurrents and Societal Pressures
Beyond the digital sphere, several psychological and societal factors contribute to our growing boredom. Some individuals naturally possess a higher "sensation-seeking" trait, requiring more novelty and excitement to feel stimulated.5 In a world where trends and "new" experiences are constantly recycled, even these individuals can find themselves quickly disillusioned.

Crucially, our internal resources for self-amusement are dwindling. Before the advent of constant digital connectivity, moments of boredom often served as fertile ground for creativity, introspection, and problem-solving. Our minds, unburdened by external stimulation, would wander, connect disparate ideas, and foster deeper thought.6 Today, the immediate gratification of a digital distraction stifles this productive solitude, leaving us less equipped to entertain ourselves constructively.

Moreover, social media, with its carefully curated highlight reels, fosters unrealistic expectations of constant excitement and adventure.7 Our everyday lives, with their mundane realities, can then feel profoundly underwhelming in comparison, contributing to a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and boredom.

Finally, it's important to acknowledge that chronic boredom isn't just an inconvenience; it's increasingly linked to mental health concerns.8 It can be a symptom of, or contribute to, anxiety, depression, apathy, and anhedonia (the inability to feel pleasure). In some cases, it can even drive individuals towards risky or impulsive behaviors in a desperate attempt to feel something.

Reclaiming Our Attention and Finding Fulfillment
Combating this growing boredom requires a conscious effort to recalibrate our relationship with technology and rediscover the richness of genuine engagement. This means:
Mindful Digital Consumption: Setting boundaries, scheduling "digital detoxes," and consciously choosing content that is enriching rather than merely distracting.
Cultivating Deeper Interests: Engaging in hobbies that demand sustained attention and provide a sense of mastery, whether it's learning a new skill, pursuing a creative endeavor, or delving into a complex topic.
Embracing Discomfort: Allowing ourselves to sit with moments of boredom rather than immediately reaching for a screen.9 This discomfort can be a springboard for self-reflection and imaginative thought.
Seeking "Flow" Experiences: Identifying activities that challenge us just enough to be engaging without being overwhelming, and actively pursuing them.10
Nurturing Real-World Connections: Prioritizing face-to-face interactions and activities that foster a sense of community and shared purpose.

The increasing prevalence of boredom in our hyper-stimulated world is a sobering reminder that more is not always better. By understanding the forces at play and making conscious choices, we can begin to reclaim our attention, rediscover the joy of meaningful engagement, and ultimately, live lives that are less about constant stimulation and more about genuine fulfillment.

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02/06/2025

Genesis 47 presents a fascinating case study in leadership, family loyalty, and the complex dynamics of power during a time of crisis. Joseph, having risen to prominence in Egypt, skillfully navigates the delicate situation of bringing his family into the land. His foresight in preparing for the famine, coupled with Pharaoh's benevolent trust, allows for the preservation of Jacob's household and the continuation of the covenant line.

Three key lessons emerge. First, Joseph's strategic planning and administrative prowess are evident in his ability to manage the famine effectively and settle his family. This highlights the importance of proactive leadership in mitigating future crises. Second, the passage demonstrates the enduring power of family loyalty, as Joseph honors his father and brothers, providing for their well-being even amidst national hardship. This underscores the significance of familial bonds and responsibilities. Third, we see Pharaoh's wisdom in recognizing and utilizing Joseph's gifts, trusting him with immense authority for the good of the nation. This illustrates the value of discerning leadership that empowers capable individuals.

For personal reflection:
* How can I better anticipate and prepare for future "famines" or challenges in my own life, whether personal, professional, or spiritual?
* In what ways can I strengthen my commitment to family and those I am responsible for, even when it requires personal sacrifice or strategic thinking?
* Do I recognize and empower the "Josephs" in my own sphere of influence, allowing capable individuals to lead and contribute their unique gifts for the greater good?

01/06/2025

Making genuine friendships with visitors to church is paramount, not just for their experience, but for the vitality and growth of the entire congregation. When someone walks through the doors of a church for the first time, or even the tenth, they are often seeking connection, belonging, and spiritual nourishment. A warm smile from an usher is a good start, but a true friendship offers a deeper invitation.
Consider this: How many times have we been new in a place, feeling like an outsider looking in? Friendships bridge that gap. They transform a potentially intimidating new environment into a welcoming community. A genuine friendship demonstrates Christian love in action, moving beyond platitudes to practical care and shared life. Isn't this what the early church modeled, where believers shared all things in common?
These friendships are the lifeblood of church growth. People don't typically stay in a church because of its programs or even its preaching alone; they stay because of the relationships they form. When visitors feel truly seen, valued, and loved, they are far more likely to return, to get involved, and eventually, to commit. They become part of the family.
Moreover, friendships lead to organic evangelism. A satisfied "customer" tells a friend, but a deeply connected friend invites another to share in what they've found. These are not superficial connections aimed at recruitment, but genuine relationships where the joy and peace found in Christ are naturally shared. How many people in your church today were initially invited by a friend, not just an advertisement?
Ultimately, the growth of a church isn't just about increasing numbers; it's about expanding the body of Christ. And this expansion happens most effectively, most authentically, through the cultivation of loving, intentional friendships. What kind of friendships are we building with those who visit our church, and are they truly reflecting the inclusive love of Christ?

30/05/2025

As a pastor's kid, I've journeyed through various communities, and through these experiences, I've come to understand a profound truth, particularly resonant for "third culture kids" (TCKs) and others whose lives involve frequent relocation: the quiet ache of not having constant friends. This isn't merely about missing social gatherings; it's about my deeper longing for enduring connections, for the shared history and unspoken understanding that only long-term friendships can cultivate.

My Landscape of Transient Friendships
My life, like that of a TCK, is rich with diverse experiences and broad perspectives. I've learned adaptability, cultural fluidity, and the art of saying goodbye. Yet, beneath this strength lies a vulnerability. Each new place brings the excitement of new faces and potential relationships, but also the unspoken knowledge that these bonds, however deep they may feel in the moment, are often temporary.

I invest my heart, share my stories, and build a sense of belonging, only to have it gently—or sometimes abruptly—unravel with the next relocation. This cycle can lead to a subtle but persistent form of loneliness. It's not necessarily the loneliness of being alone, but the loneliness of not having a constant anchor in another human being. It's the absence of that friend who knew me in my awkward teenage years, who remembers my first significant heartbreak, or who simply understands my inside jokes without explanation. This lack of shared, continuous history can make me feel perpetually "new," always in the process of establishing roots that never quite deepen before it's time to pull them up again.

For me as a pastor's kid and a pastor myself, this can be doubly challenging. I am often the one offering comfort, guidance, and stability to my congregation. Yet, I too am a human being with needs for connection and belonging. The transient nature of ministry, while fulfilling in its purpose, can mirror the TCK experience, leaving me longing for the consistent, unconditional friendship that often feels elusive.

It is precisely in this landscape of human transience and my longing for constancy that the Scriptures offer a profound and timeless comfort. The Bible doesn't shy away from acknowledging human loneliness and the pain of feeling abandoned or alone. Indeed, many psalms are raw expressions of such feelings.

However, the consistent message woven throughout the biblical narrative is that when human connections falter, or when there is "no one to depend on" in the earthly realm, there is an unwavering, eternal Friend: God Himself.

Consider these powerful reminders that have brought me solace:
Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." This promise, given to Moses and the Israelites, echoes through generations, assuring me of God's constant presence, regardless of my physical location or social circle.

Psalm 27:10: "Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me." This verse speaks to the deepest human fears of abandonment, asserting that even if the most fundamental human bonds break, God's embrace remains.

Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" This New Testament echo reinforces the Old Testament promise, making it clear that God's faithfulness is a cornerstone of my faith.

John 15:15: Jesus Himself calls His disciples "friends," saying, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." This elevates my relationship with Christ to one of intimate friendship, a bond that transcends earthly limitations.

These verses, among many others, serve as a divine balm for my lonely heart. They remind me that while human friendships are precious gifts, they are ultimately finite and subject to the circumstances of life. God, however, is not. His presence is not contingent on my address, my career path, or the whims of others. He is the constant in a world of change, the steadfast rock when the ground beneath my feet feels unstable.

For me, experiencing the unique loneliness of transient friendships, leaning into this biblical truth becomes not just a theological concept, but a lifeline.

He is Always There: Unlike human friends who move away or grow distant, God is always accessible to me through prayer, reflection, and His Word. His ear is always open, and His counsel is always available.

He Knows Me Fully: While new friends need to learn my history, God knows every detail of my past, present, and future. He understands my deepest longings, my unspoken pains, and my unique journey, even the parts that no human friend could ever fully grasp.

He Provides True Security: The security of human friendship can be fragile. The security of God's friendship is eternal and unbreakable. This allows me to invest in new relationships without the crushing fear of inevitable loss, knowing that my ultimate anchor is secure.

He Equips Me for Service: Paradoxically, this deep dependence on God frees me to serve others more effectively. When my primary need for companionship is met in Him, I can offer friendship and support to those around me without placing undue burdens on them or on myself.

In the ebb and flow of my life, especially as someone called to move and minister in diverse settings, the loneliness of not having constant friends is a real and valid emotion. Yet, it is also an invitation—an invitation to discover the profound, unwavering constancy of God's friendship. He is the Friend who sticks closer than a brother, the One who never leaves, never forsakes, and is always there to receive me, no matter where life's journey takes me. In Him, I find not just solace, but an enduring companionship that transcends all earthly limitations.

29/05/2025

Religious attire, in its myriad forms, has long been a visible marker of faith, tradition, and identity across cultures and continents. From the humble head covering to elaborate vestments, clothing often carries profound symbolic meaning for believers. For Christians, the approach to religious attire is nuanced, rooted in biblical principles, historical practice, and a contemporary understanding of faith in a diverse world.

A Look at Biblical Principles
The New Testament, while not prescribing a strict dress code for everyday Christian life, offers guiding principles related to modesty, humility, and avoiding stumbling blocks. Passages such as 1 Timothy 2:9-10 encourage women to dress "modestly, with decency and propriety," focusing on good deeds rather than outward adornment. Similarly, Peter urges believers to cultivate "the inner self, with the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight" (1 Peter 3:3-4). These verses emphasize an inward disposition over outward display, cautioning against pride, ostentation, and anything that might distract from worship or cause others to stumble.

However, the Bible also acknowledges the use of specific attire for religious roles. The Old Testament details elaborate garments for priests, signifying their consecrated role and the sanctity of their service to God. While the New Covenant establishes a priesthood of all believers, the principle of reverent and appropriate dress for those leading worship or performing sacred duties can still be discerned.

Historical Christian Practice
Throughout Christian history, various forms of attire have emerged, often reflecting cultural norms, theological convictions, and practical considerations. In early Christianity, modest and simple dress was common, distinguishing believers from the more extravagant styles of the Roman world. As the Church developed, certain vestments became standardized for clergy, evolving over centuries to the elaborate robes, stoles, and other garments seen in many denominations today. These vestments are not merely decorative; they often carry symbolic meaning, representing theological truths, the role of the minister, and the solemnity of the liturgy.

For laypeople, regional and cultural influences played a significant role. In some traditions, head coverings for women became common, rooted in interpretations of biblical passages like 1 Corinthians 11. Monastic orders adopted specific habits to signify their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and to visually set themselves apart for a life of devotion.

The Contemporary Christian Approach

In the 21st century, the Christian approach to religious attire is diverse and often reflects the particular theological emphasis of different denominations and individual convictions.

Modesty and Decency: These remain core values for many Christians. The interpretation of "modesty" can vary culturally, but the underlying principle is to dress in a way that honors God, respects others, and avoids drawing undue attention to oneself or promoting sensuality. This applies to everyday wear as well as attire for worship.

Distraction and Focus: For church services, many Christians believe that attire should not be a distraction, either for oneself or for others. The focus should be on worship, fellowship, and the teaching of God's Word. This might lead some to prefer more formal or traditional dress for church, while others prioritize comfort and simplicity.

Cultural Relevance vs. Counter-Cultural Witness: Christians grapple with how to balance cultural relevance with a counter-cultural witness. In some contexts, traditional religious attire might be a powerful statement of faith, while in others, it might be seen as a barrier. The challenge is to discern how clothing can best communicate the values of the Kingdom of God.

Liberty and Conscience: An important aspect of the Christian faith is the concept of Christian liberty. Where the Bible does not explicitly command or forbid something, believers are often given freedom to act according to their conscience, guided by love and wisdom. This applies to matters of dress, meaning that there is rarely a "one-size-fits-all" answer. What might be appropriate for one Christian or congregation might not be for another.

Professional and Vocational Attire: For those in specific ministries or vocations (e.g., pastors, missionaries, chaplains), there may be expectations regarding professional attire that reflect the dignity of their calling and the context in which they serve. This could range from clerical collars to culturally appropriate dress in mission fields.

Beyond the Garment: Ultimately, the Christian approach to attire moves beyond the fabric and style to the heart. While external appearance can reflect internal values, true godliness is not measured by the clothes we wear but by the character we embody. The emphasis remains on developing a Christ-like spirit—one of love, humility, integrity, and compassion—which will naturally inform how we present ourselves to the world.

In conclusion, religious attire for Christians is a multifaceted topic. While historical practices and biblical principles offer guidance, the contemporary approach is marked by a recognition of diversity, personal conviction, and the overarching call to live lives that honor God and serve others. The most profound "attire" for a Christian is not what is worn on the body, but the spiritual garments of righteousness, humility, and love that clothe the soul.

29/05/2025

Is it really biblical to want our enemies vanquished?

Sometimes I just want God to vanquish my enemies.

23/05/2025

The headline, "American Pope Elected!" created a wave of intrigue a little over two weeks ago.. As a Seventh-day Adventist, I immediately recognized this as a potentially prophetic event, aligning with Revelation's prophecies of a powerful figure uniting the world. This development, from a nation of global influence, demands our attention. My heart turned to Revelation 13:12, where a commanding figure is described, making this ancient prophecy feel chillingly current. The verse states, "And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed." This passage, once a distant theological concept, now resonates with a striking immediacy, prompting deep reflection on its implications for our present reality.

Our response must be rooted in prayer for wisdom and discernment (James 1:5), seeking divine guidance to navigate these complex times. Alongside prayer, diligent study of prophecies is paramount to truly understand the unfolding events and their significance. We are called to vigorously share the gospel's hope, not to judge or condemn, but to lovingly warn others of what is to come and offer the enduring peace found in Christ (1 Peter 3:15). Vigilance is key; this global religious shift, particularly the rise of a figure from a nation historically associated with religious freedom, is profoundly significant. Our allegiance remains solely with Christ, rooted firmly in His infallible Word (1 Peter 5:8). This improbable election signals that final events are indeed unfolding rapidly, setting the stage for the culmination of history and urging us to live with urgency and unwavering hope as the dawn of Christ's return approaches (Matthew 24:33, Revelation 22:20).

In light of these developments, certain priorities become even more crucial for us as Seventh-day Adventists:

Upholding the Three Angels' Messages: Our core gospel message, found in Revelation 14:6-12, serves as a final warning against false worship and a glorious proclamation of the everlasting gospel. We are compelled to share this message with utmost clarity, urgency, and compassion, inviting all to worship the Creator. "Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.”" (Revelation 14:6-7)

Observing the Sabbath: The seventh-day Sabbath is more than just a day of rest; it is a profound sign of our allegiance to God as both Creator and Redeemer. In a world increasingly prone to shifting allegiances, honoring the Sabbath faithfully becomes a powerful testimony to God's enduring law and His creative power. We must not only observe it ourselves but also lovingly present its timeless significance to others. "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God." (Exodus 20:8-10)

Proclaiming the Second Coming: Our ultimate hope is firmly anchored in the glorious, soon return of Jesus Christ. This blessed hope should permeate every aspect of our lives, motivating us to live intentionally and actively share this promise with everyone around us. It is the grand climax of all prophecy, offering relief from suffering and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord." (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

Standing for Biblical Truth: In an age characterized by shifting moral sands and widespread deception, it is imperative that we remain immovably grounded in the Bible as the ultimate, infallible authority. Upholding its teachings on all matters of faith, doctrine, and practice provides an unshakeable foundation for our lives and our witness. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105)

Fostering Unity in Christ: While remaining true to our distinctive prophetic message, we should actively seek to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with other Christians. Our shared love for Christ and His Word should inspire unity, even amidst doctrinal differences, so that the world may see the unifying power of God's Spirit. "May they all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I am in you; may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you sent me." (John 17:21)

Engaging in Compassionate Ministry: Our faith calls us to more than just belief; it calls us to action. We are to reflect the selfless love of Jesus through tangible acts of service and compassion, diligently working to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those around us, just as Christ did. "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Maintaining Focus on Our Work: While we diligently watch for the signs of the times and anticipate Christ's return, we must never become so engrossed in speculative discussions or theoretical debates that we neglect our practical responsibilities. We are called to be faithful stewards of the time, talents, and resources God has entrusted to us, working diligently to spread the gospel, nurture our families, and contribute positively to our communities. Our approach must be balanced: both watchful of prophetic fulfillment and actively engaged in God's work. "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

In this critical moment, history holds its breath. The world watches, and we, as Seventh-day Adventists, must watch with even greater discernment and purpose. This is not a time for paralyzing fear, but for a clear-eyed, unwavering commitment to the sacred mission we have been given. With our eyes fixed on the glorious, soon return of our Savior, let us proclaim His truth boldly, extend His love unconditionally, and live in unwavering obedience to His Word. Even as the shadows of these last days gather around us, may our lives shine brightly with the hope of the eternal dawn.

PC:https://digital.library.cornell.edu/catalog/ss:3293832