Gospel News — Jun-Aug 2012

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become the life-long work of humanitarian groups. For the sake of many of the advances in technology that we observe and enjoy, great sacrifices have been made, even to the point of loss of life. The list could go on and on into varied fields that modern man is interested in promoting. While many of these causes are worthwhile, most of them are void of the Truth. Jesus Christ and his kingdom are cast aside as something to be discussed or observed on Sundays, or maybe at special times of the year or, in many cases, not at all.

Brothers, sisters and friends, what causes are we promoting today? Is it our businesses or farms, our families, our hobbies or are we may be busy just trying to make ourselves a little more well thought of, or comfortable? We are responsible people, and have been called from darkness to light. We have been saved!

Let us look at the writings of the apostle Paul on the road to Damascus. While on a mission of persecuting Christian people, he saw the light. Within a few days he was promoting Christ and his kingdom as zealously as he had been persecuting the church. His talents or abilities had not changed, as he was a man of determination, vision and the new life, he was determined to share the good news.

Today we are faced with the challenge of sharing our experiences of salvation. As we make genuine experiences with the Lord, there is humility in our hearts. It is then that we realize how much the Lord has done for us and how little we can do for him. Today there is a real need in the ecclesia to be a consecrated, self- denying people. There is no excuse. God gives all His children a place to fill. All have access to the throne of grace and divine guidance through the spirit. A humble spirit is of utmost importance. While God has called all His children to fill their

own particular places, not everyone is called to fill noticeable positions. Some are called to a work of more responsibility than others. The scriptures do not emphasize the importance of our own particular calling, but rather encourage each one to faithful service in the kingdom.

When there is discord or a lack of unity and love amongst an ecclesia, it is difficult to reach out to the needy around us. We need to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might, not fussing and fretting amongst ourselves which could give rise to ill feelings and offences.

We are to serve in the army of the Lord and should expect to suffer a little affliction, misunderstanding, or criticism. We need to find our places in the work of the kingdom. It is only reasonable that we give of our time and talents to the glory of God. The Truth must be preserved and the gospel of Jesus Christ be spread. Surely this is the highest, most worthwhile vocation that any man, woman or child could be called to. We who have accepted this call, who have been released from the bondage of sin and set free, know the way, the truth and the light.

Are we walking worthy of our calling?

CUBA

We're pleased to report the first baptisms by our community in Cuba- a family of three, the father `A', wife `M' and 17 year old son `G'. Communication is a major problem- internet is only allowed in the higher range tourist hotels