"LET THERE BE LIGHT" Ministries
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April - June, 2005

     "There are many precious truths contained in the Word of God, but it is 'PRESENT TRUTH' that the flock needs now." Early Writings, p 63.


Elder: robert sessler
E-mail address:  lightmin@terragon.com

THE  CURSE  OF  THE  LAW

     “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse...” Galatians 3:10.

     Many people stop right here and do not want to read any further.  If these words were the complete thought brought forth by the apostle Paul, one might be excused for believing that those who seek to render obedience to God’s ten commandments are under a curse.  But these would miss the real point that the apostle was seeking to make.  Notice that the verse goes on to say:
     “...for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.”

     The fact of the matter is, the curse comes upon men, not because they keep the Law, but because they failed to do so.  Closer observation reveals that the curse is actually the curse which comes because of disobedience.
     Disobedience to God’s Law is itself the curse, and the curse it brings is death.  Sin has death wrapped up in it, for “by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin” Romans 5:12.  Without sin, death would not exist, for “the sting of death is sin” 1 Corinthians 15:56.  Why did the apostle then say that “as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse”?  Is it because the Law is a curse?  No, the apostle himself acknowledges that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” Romans 7:12.
     If there was something wrong with the Law, we may know with confidence that Christ would not have fulfilled it in every respect (see John 15:10).  Why, then, would as many who were of the works of the law under the curse?  Because “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23.  All have failed to fulfill the works of the Law in their lives.  Thus anyone who seeks by good works to remove the curse from themselves of having broken that Law will still remain under that curse.

     We see this same principle in the application of human laws.  The laws which prohibit an individual from defrauding or committing violence against his neighbor are not a curse, or a type of bondage.  In fact, we would have to agree that they are laws which insure liberty, and there are certain penalties given to those who would break them.  Therefore, while these laws speak liberty to the law-abiding citizen, they speak bondage to the one convicted of having violated them.  This principle is also seen in the area of the laws which govern traffic, and once convicted of breaking the speed law, one’s future good driving will not remove from him the obligation of having to pay the penalty.
     In this respect, God’s Law of ten commandments is no different.  James refers to it as the “perfect law of liberty” James 1:25.  This Law can be divided into two great parts: the first four commandments addresses our relation to God, showing how we are to live in harmony with our Creator--the Source of our life.  The second, or last six commandments, addresses our relation to other human beings, showing how we are to live in harmony with our neighbors.  And for one to break any part of this Law would place them under its curse.
     When God brought His chosen people out of the bondage of Egypt, He set before them two types of promises.  One set were based upon a course of obedience, the other upon a course of disobedience (see Deuteronomy 11:26-28).  As long as they obeyed God, they received blessings, but when they chose to disobey, they received the curse.  God did not speak these words for Israel alone.  But these ten precepts apply equally to all mankind.  It was not just the rights of the children of Israel which God sought to protect, but for all peoples.  Neither were the people of Israel the only segment of society that God desired to have live in harmony with the principles of His government.
     You will never find in any of Paul’s writings any hint or suggestion that the Law was not to be obeyed, or that it had been abolished or changed.  The question is not if the Law should be kept, but how it is to be kept.

     Since “all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God” (Romans 3:23) having broken His Law, there would be no possibility that any could remove this debt of sin by the keeping of this Law in the future--no matter how good and perfect they would be.  This is because the Law has no way of removing past guilt.  There is no remedy in the Law to remove or pardon our past sins and make us innocent.  The Law only condemns and brings the curse of death upon those who break it.
     Then how can anyone have their past sins forgiven and thereby be enabled to live?
     “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin....Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare...his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.  Where is boasting then?  It is excluded.  By what law? of works?  Nay: but by the law of faith.  Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.” Romans 3:20, 24-28.

     Thus it is through faith alone in the shed blood of Christ that we can have our past sins forgiven, our debt of guilt paid, the curse of death removed, and can be declared innocent and righteous through the grace and righteousness of Christ Jesus!
     But this gift of justification through faith is only for “the remission of sins that are past” and does not include any future sins.  So once we are justified by faith and are made righteous through Christ, do we continue to break and make void God’s Law?  Paul states:
     “But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin?  God forbid.  For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.” Galatians 2:17-18.

     So once we are justified, and we should then choose to break God’s Law and commit sin, we would no longer be justified because we made ourselves a transgressor once again.  Christ has not redeemed us from the necessity of having to keep the ten commandments, but “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us...” Galatians 3:13.
     Christ has made a way for all who accept Him as their Saviour to have their past sins, along with the curse of death, removed that they may become justified and holy in God’s sight!  But this only became possible because Christ became sin for us and suffered our penalty of death.  What love is here manifested toward every human being by Jesus!  Christ has taken away the curse of the Law from us by placing the curse upon Himself so that we can be justified or declared just.
     When we read the statement that “No man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, the just shall live by faith” (Galatians 3:11), it is important the we have a clear idea of the meaning of the word “justified” and “just.”  “Justified” means “to render just or innocent” (see Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, Greek word #1344).  While “just” means a person who is “holy” or “righteous” (Strong’s, #1342).  So the just, or those who are holy and righteous, “shall live by faith.”
     As “all unrighteousness is sin” (1 John 5:17), and all “sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4), therefore all unrighteousness is the transgression of the Law.  It would naturally follow that all righteousness must be obedience to that Law.  And thus for one to be declared righteous, they must not be knowingly disregarding any precept of God’s Law.  Paul clearly declares:
     “For not the hearers of the law are just (or are righteous) before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified (or be righteous).” Romans 2:13.

     So once we are justified, we must be more than hearers of God’s Law, but doers of it.  But how?  How are we to live?
     “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

     This process of allowing Christ to live in you is called being a“live unto God” (Galatians 2:19) and being “dead to sin” (Romans 6:2).  It is also referred to as putting “on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof” (Romans 13:14).  It also means that we would be choosing to follow God’s will at all times and in all places.  Thus we would be imitating the life of Christ, our great Example.  “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth” 1 Peter 2:21-22 (see also Ephesians 5:1-8; Colossians 3:5-17).  And since Christ kept all of His Father’s commandments, if we allow Him to live in us by faith, then we would also be keeping all of God’s commandments.
     This keeping of God’s Law through faith that Christ is living in you is also called being sanctified through the Spirit, and is the hope and goal of every true Christian.
     “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he (Christ) reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel...Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” Colossians 1:21-23, 26-29.

     This keeping of all ten of God’s commandments cannot be accomplished in our own strength.  This law can be kept only through the One who alone is good--and that is God.  If there is ever to be any good in us, it is because we have God working in us.  And if God is working in us, then every one of the commandments can be kept perfectly!
     “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13.

     “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory forever and ever Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21.

     When we allow God to work in us through Jesus, there will be no sin that together we could not overcome!
     “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13.

     When the shed blood of Christ covers us, our sins are forgiven, and Christ’s righteousness is by faith imputed to us making us justified or righteous before God.  Then, as we choose to allow Christ to live in and work through us, His righteousness is by faith imparted to us and we can work the works of Him “who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).  So Christ’s righteousness is imputed to us because we broke God’s Law, and is imparted to us so that we can now keep it.  Thus Jesus is “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jeremiah 23:6) because “he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness” (Isaiah 61:10).
     It is by faith in God working in us, and our moment by moment choice to work in harmony with His will, or combining faith and works together, that we become doers of His Law and remain righteous.  The Law is so holy that the standard it holds out to us is greater than anyone can attain to in his own strength.  Perfect obedience can only be accomplished through God’s divine power.  But divine power alone, without our choice to act in harmony with it, will accomplish nothing.
     “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone....Seest thou how faith wrought with his (Abraham’s) works, and by works was faith made perfect?...For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” James 2:17, 22, 26.

     God will not overcome sin for us without our help!  We can exercise all the faith in the world, but faith alone will not enable us to keep all of God’s commandments.  We must act in harmony with our faith.  Our faith must become active and alive, not remain inactive and dead.  We must choose to be a follower of God and no longer yield ourselves to break God’s law and commit sin.
     “What shall we say then?  Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?  God forbid.  How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?...Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him (Christ), that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin....Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.  Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.  For sin shall not have dominion over you...Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?  But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.  Being made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness....for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.  For when ye were servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.  What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed?  for the end of those things is death.  But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end eternal life.  For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:1-2, 6, 11-14, 16-23.

     So as by faith we receive the Lord Jesus, He lives out His perfect Law in us, and we become doers of righteousness and bear fruits of holiness.
     “But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterward be revealed.  Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.  But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.” Galatians 3:23-25.

     In other words, we were under the curse of the Law for having broken it and sinned.  The Law could not pardon us, but as a tutor plainly showed us that Christ is the only way to be freed from being under it’s curse by being cleansed and justified through faith in His shed blood.  Thus, after faith is come, we no longer need this tutor to point us to Christ for cleansing--because we are already justified from sin.

     Some have supposed that this text was teaching that there was a definite time for faith to come and that men needed to keep the Law until this certain time.  It is then commonly believed that once faith came, they were from then on free from the Law.  This coming of faith is generally considered to be synonymous with the manifestation of Christ on earth.  But when does faith come?
     “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17.

     When we receive the Word of God--the word of promise into our hearts, it brings with it the fullness of God’s Law, and when we no longer fight against this truth, but yield to it, then a faith that is alive comes to us and we are free indeed.

     Christ did not come to save us in our sins, but from our sins (see Matthew 1:21).  The salvation He brings to us is not just release from the penalty of sin, but victory over sin itself.  “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law” (Galatians 3:13), from sin and death.  This He has done by “being made a curse for us,” and thus we are freed from all necessity of sinning--not from the necessity of keeping God’s Law.  Sin can have no more dominion over us if we will only accept Christ in truth as our Saviour, allowing Him to live in and through us.  Then we can be a real follower of God and a true child of the heavenly King.
     But if we sin, then we are not followers of God, but followers of Satan and children of the devil!
     “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.  Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.  And ye know that he (Jesus) was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.  Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.  Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.  He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.  For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.  Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed (Christ) remaineth in him, and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.  In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” 1 John 3:3-10.


     So the choice is yours:
     “...choose you this day whom ye will serve...” Joshua 24:15.

     “How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him.” 1 Kings 18:21.


     May you choose to yield yourself completely unto God, allowing Christ to dwell and rule within you, and thus be “a doer of his word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22).  May you then continue to choose to serve and obey Him instead of self each moment of each day.  In doing so, you show by your actions or fruits that you are not ashamed to be follower of God and a child of the heavenly King.  And if you should remain faithful unto the end, you will gain eternal life.

     But if by your actions or fruits you show yourself to be a follower of Satan and a child of the devil, then you will gain everlasting death and destruction.  May you instead reveal Christ in your life every moment of the day, and thereby give glory to God.  Then you can be effective in leading others to embrace Jesus and to also follow His truth faithfully to the end, so that they too can receive the crown of life.
     “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.…For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels....(because) he (Christ) became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.” Luke 9:23, 26; Hebrews 5:9.

     “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to them that love him.” James 1:12.

     “Fear none of those things which thou shall suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation...be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Revelation 2:10.

     “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.  Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” Revelation 3:10-11.




MINISTRY NEWS

     As we mentioned earlier, brother Nicholas of Presents of God Ministry has invited me to be on his one hour radio broadcast every 2nd Sunday of each month dealing with various subjects of present truth.  These broadcasts have the potential to reach several million listeners since it is broadcasted over Satellite, AM/FM radio, Micro, and even the internet.  Copies of these broadcasts can be found at www.RemnantofGod.org/tpb-archives.htm or www.LightMinistries.com/id14.htm.  Your continued prayers are appreciated, and are working! The radio station manager is re-broadcasting these interviews at different times throughout the week, and has now himself begun to preach over the airways about the necessity of keeping the 7th day Sabbath!  May God be praised!

     The Lord is continuing to bless our TrueChurchofGod.info Web Site.  In the month of January we had 15,577 hits, which were generated by 4,092 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, over 8,156 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 754 million bits of information were downloaded.
       In the month of February we had 14,291 hits, which were generated by 4,001 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 6,982 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 547 million bits of information were downloaded!
     In the month of March we had our best month yet.  We had 16,986 hits, which were generated by 4,454 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 9,684 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 1 billion bits of information were downloaded! So for these 3 months alone, over 2.3 billion bits of information were downloaded from our Gospel Truth Web Site by over 12,500 visitors!

     The Lord is also abundantly blessing our LightMinistries.com Web Site!  In the month of January we had 120,454 hits, which were generated by 20,064 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 52,544 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 6.38 billion bits of information were downloaded.
     In the month of February we had 118,729 hits, which were generated by 22,486 visitors.  In these Visitor Sessions, 50,962 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 6.9 billion bits of information were downloaded!
     The month of March was our best month yet!  We had 150,659 hits, which were generated by 26,261 visitors!  In these Visitor Sessions, 57,068 documents of Present Truth were viewed, and over 7.77 billion bits of information were downloaded! So for these 3 months alone, over 21 billion bits of information were downloaded from our Present Truth Web Site by over 68,800 visitors!  MAY GOD'S HOLY NAME BE PRAISED FOR EVER!!

     For those who are not able to have a home church to attend and who miss the benefit of fellowshipping together with others of like faith, there is an on-line present truth home church which meets every Sabbath at 12:00 noon Central Time.  This is a live broadcast of one of our separated Home Churches in Indiana which is pastored by brother Nicholas.  Please feel free to come and fellowship with others of like faith and enjoy the spiritual uplifting experience, and also be able to chat with them after church!  If you would like to fellowship, go to www.RemnantofGod.org/pogmchat.htm.

     TO OUR READERS AND SUPPORTERS: Please know that "Let There Be Light" Ministries is not concerned with using your prayers and donations to build itself into a kingdom, but is concerned with getting the Present Truth into the hands of the common people quickly, effectively, and wisely.  Instead of working towards acquiring expensive video and T.V. production equipment, satellite or shortwave facilities, we would rather use the Lord's money in publishing and distributing materials which give the full present truth gospel, as well as supporting many full-time foreign ministers and workers in various countries around the world who have proven themselves to be reliable and stable.  With their monthly support and present truth materials supplied them, these ministers and workers then have the ability to more effectively spread the spoken and printed truth, establish the people in it, and carry this precious truth into the very homes of those who sit in darkness.  This is how the Loud Cry of the third angel will be spread, and is now being spread!  If the Lord so impresses you to help in these endeavors, your donations will be greatly appreciated--not just by this Ministry, but by many others as well!  MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU!




MINISTRY NEEDS

     "Let There Be Light" Ministries is devoted to the spreading of the full present truth gospel message worldwide, and has been doing so since 1986.  This Ministry has operating expenses covering the areas of: printing, publishing, and writing of present truth books, booklets, tracts, and other literature; video and audio taping, production, and distribution; supporting several ministers and workers in foreign Countries; mail order--both domestic and foreign; traveling to hold meetings--both locally, nationally, and internationally; answering correspondence and questions regarding the message of truth; offering National and International Bible studies; sending free present truth literature to contacts in many poor Countries; etc.
     Your gracious prayers and support is greatly appreciated and needed.  Without the Lord's guidance and blessings and without your support, this Ministry could not continue to reach out worldwide with the precious message of Revelation 14:6-12 & 18:1-5.

     May our God and Saviour continue to lead and guide all those who have helped this Ministry reach out to souls who sit in darkness with the precious light of gospel truth.  May our supporters remember that they share in each and every soul who has been reached by this Ministry and converted to the Lord and His present truth!


GENERAL FOREIGN MISSION WORK NEEDS

     We are currently supporting several workers in many different Countries on a monthly basis.  We check into the economy of each area and supply a base support which is adequate depending on their situation, but not extravagant.  This base support is to ensure that the monthly needs of each worker and family is met for that month so that the worker may devote full time to the ministry work.  In addition to this, we are sending extra materials for evangelism, and money for printing, publishing, holding meetings, traveling, and other necessary areas in spreading the Present Truth in their Country.  And as the work extends, especially will the expenses for evangelism expand.  Whatever you can send to help in this necessary and vital area is greatly appreciated.
     The work of spreading God's present truth is not to be limited, but must extend world-wide to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people before our Saviour can come (Matthew 24:14).  What better way of spreading the present truth gospel than by having workers who speak the native language, who reside in that particular Country, who can live and preach the truth, visit the interests in their homes, and spread the printed truth translated into their common language!
     "Our publications should be printed in other languages, that foreign nations may be reached.  Much can be done through the medium of the press, but still more can be accomplished if the influence of the living preacher goes with our publications....The Lord has moved upon men of other tongues and has brought them under the influence of the truth, that they might be qualified to labor in His cause." Testimonies, vol 3, p 204-205.

     Please financially help us to continue supporting our current ministers and workers on a consistent basis, so that the spreading of the truth will not be interrupted but can quickly lighten this dark world with the glory of God.
     "Every opportunity should be improved to extend the truth to other nations.  This will be attended with considerable expense, but expense should in no case hinder the performance of this work.  Means are of value only as they are used to advance the interest of the kingdom of God.  The Lord has lent men means for this very purpose, to use in sending the truth to their fellow men."  Testimonies, vol 3, p 208.


SPECIFIC MONTHLY FOREIGN MISSION WORK NEEDS

FIJI Islands:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Fiji.
     -- Printing our booklets in Fiji.

KENYA, East Africa:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Kenya.
     -- Printing our booklets in Kenya.
     -- Projector, screen, and evangelistic film for non-SDA outreach.
     -- 2 good used PA Systems for evangelistic meetings--$300 each.

MALAYSIA:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Malaysia.
     -- Purchasing of Chinese Great Controversy and Steps to Christ--$5. each.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to PNG.
     -- A small portable speaker system for street preaching.
     -- Cartons of KJV Bibles and Study Bibles for workers.
     -- Used SOP books.
     -- Clothes to pass out to naked villagers.
PHILIPPINE Islands:
     -- Boxes of 1884 Great Controversy books for non-SDA outreach.
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Philippines.
     -- Printing 100,000 tracts in Philippines--$1,450.

UGANDA, East Africa:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets to Uganda.
     -- Printing of booklets in Uganda.
     -- A good used PA System for meetings--$300.
     -- Bibles and Spirit of Prophecy books to purchase and mail.
     -- Printing 100,000 tracts in Uganda--$1,600.

ZAMBIA, Central Africa:
     -- Printing and mailing expenses for booklets and tracts to Zambia.
     -- Portable generator for evangelistic meetings--$650.
     -- Computer for translation work--$600.
     -- A printing press or Risograph Duplicator to spread the printed truth throughout all of Africa.


     Please be sure to mark all donated monies for any of the above Ministry or Foreign Mission needs.  100% of all donated monies will go where specified.  Unspecified donations will go where needed.  Thank you very much for making this evangelistic work possible, and may God's richest blessings attend you and yours.




LETTERS to "LET THERE BE LIGHT" Ministries

Greetings in Jesus Christ.
     I have been an ardent Catholic faithful for thirty years now, since I was born.  I have always considered myself a staunch Christian, considering my degree of devout(ion).  But recently...I found out that the Catholic doctrine ostensibly and deliberately omits (the second, and most of) the fourth commandment and instead splits the ninth commandment into two....
     I do hereby request you to send me a copy of The Great Controversy and any other literature, print or electronic, which may help me build my faith to run in the law.
     God bless you abundantly for your support.
     Your brother, M.O., Kenya.

Dear bro Bob,
     Thank you for the Newsletter on Mt. Zion & other topics.  We look forward to receiving these letters & pray our Heavenly Father continue to keep you well & faithful to do His work.
     Please include us in your prayers that we do not fail to do our Father’s will.  We are nearing home.
     May God help us all to remain faithful.
     Your sister and brother in Christ, A. & L.M., FL.

Dear elder Bob,
     I am truly grateful that despite my silence, you and the ministry continues to feed me spiritually.  Please use this offering to aid whoever (& wherever) needs it.  Thank you.
     In Jesus, C.B., NJ.

Dear bro. Bob,
     Greetings to you in Jesus’ precious name....
     (Sister) ____ and I have shared the booklet, “The Abomination of Desolation Stands”, “Last Message of Mercy”, also the videos, “History of Separation”, Part #1 and “Christ versus the Churches”, and “Last Message of Mercy”, Part 1&2 with bro. ____.  This brother has been studying with our group for about three months now....
     Well, it was the Holy Spirit that led him to the information you provided through these booklets and videos.  He says if it was only “The Last Message of Mercy” booklet that he read, that would have been enough light for his salvation.  He is going to write to you bro. Bob.  He says he wants to order all the books you have available. (Editor’s Note: Praise God!)
     It’s just wonderful to share the truth with brethren, and they don’t fight against it.
     May the good Lord bless and keep you and your Ministry always.
     Your sister in Christ, J.V., Canada.

Dear bro Bob,
     I pray you and your family are fine.  Please say a small prayer for ____ & ____ & ____.
     Thank you for the “News”letter - I enjoy seeing/hearing from around the world what the Lord is doing via His workers in the field.  Amen.
     God bless, R. & family, FL.

Dear pastor Sessler,
     May the Lord bless you and your workers as we near the soon return of our Lord Jesus Christ....We appreciate the way God is using you to spread the Everlasting Gospel to a dying world....
     Our prayer is that God will encourage you to continue to be faithful until our task on earth is done.  May God richly bless your work and your staff.  We are so thankful to the Lord for your ministry.  We love you, dear brother, in the Lord!
P.S. God’s Promises: Proverbs 3:5,6; Romans 8:37; Isaiah 41:10, 13, 43:1-5; Philippians 1:6.
     Love always in Christ, L., P., & J., NH.

     Thanks for the good information.  Keep up the blessed work.  May you have continued new and inspiring words to share about TRUTH.
     J.S., PA.

Dear pastor Sessler,
     Every day, more and more I fall in love with God’s word presented by your humble presentations.  May the Lord be praised!...
     I so enjoy listening to the sermons from Presents of God Ministries with brother Nicholas Patula’s website, and enjoy reading and listening to your sermons and Newsletters as well from your website - Let There Be Light Ministries.
     God bless you as you continue to cry loudly in this 11th hour before it will be forever too late and as stated in John 9:4, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”
     Sincerely, I wish to remain in Christ’s service, C.K., FL.




CORRESPONDENCE FROM FOREIGN WORKERS


FROM FIJI ISLANDS

Dear Bob,
     1 John 3:1
     Please note that I have been sick for the past 1 month and now recuperating at home. I have not send you any report and any other correspondence.  Please note that I have been very sick, and I will forward you anything regarding the above.
     The work is going on now (and) everything will depend upon God.
     Yours faithfully, A., Fiji.


FROM KENYA, EAST AFRICA

Dear Elder Bob,
     General Christian greetings in Jesus' name. “Blessed be God, even the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of all mercies and God of comfort: who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may comfort them which are in any trouble by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3–4.
     "The history for the children of Israel is written for the instruction and admonition of all Christians. When the Israelites were overtaken by dangers and difficulties and their way seemed hedged up, their faith forsook them, and murmured against the leader whom God appointed for them.
     "The divine command was, 'Go forward'. They were not to wait until the way was made plain and they could comprehend the entire plan of their deliverance. God’s cause is onward and He will open a part before this people. God speaks clearly above all discouragements: 'Go forward' we should obey this command, let the result be what it may." God's Amazing Grace, p 38.
     The magazine SDR (Seventh-day Remnant): I need the remain portions (next issues) very much....Pray for us here in Kenya for that name must raise a controversy and it has already done.
     Your brother, N.G., Kenya.


(Combination of 2 letters) Your grand mother probably said it first, and it is still true today; An ounce of prevention is far better than spending a week in bed with the flu...Developing strong immune system is your absolute best defence against viral, bacterial and all allergy, invasions. Immune boosting herbs such as echinesia, goldenseal, and garlic will not only prevent many infections and allergy attacks, they’ll also shorten the duration of the ones that sneak by you. You also need to get plenty of vitamins C,A and B complex together with the minerals zinc and copper. These are the super supplements that work hand and hand with a healthy diet to help the body ward off attacks. Drink lots of water, get plenty of rest, and, selfish as it sounds, avoid infected or allergy triggering people, places and things.
     Treated cases: Angina - 4 people; Anxiety - 1 person; Allergy - 1; Bruises - 1; Diarrhea - 2; Fever -1; Itchy and Irritated Eyes - 4; Lactation - 1; Muscle Cramps - 4; Stress - 1; Ulcers - 1.
     The severity of the trial through which Christ passed was proportionate to the value of the object gained or lost by his success or his failure.  We are almost home!...
     Since ____ camp-meeting ended we have been constantly moving from a meeting to another meeting. For example, when we finished the camp, we went down to ____ youth seminar which took us a week. Then from there we held a business meeting which also took us four sundays whereby, it was resolved that brother ____ should be censured because he applied an abusive language to his father. He refused to administer church ordinances like baptism, Lord's supper and hindered the church nominating new year workers; and other three church members were also censured over different issues. After that ____, ____, ____ and I ____ traveled to ____ taking the support (for food) which you sent them which was worthy (of) 8 sacks of maize. They were thankful and I too. May the LORD bless you....
     From ____ we held a one day seminar with ____ believers at South ____ Center. The following night we traveled to ____ at ____ home for the supported workers meeting which also took us five days. We worshiped and prayed together and shared together over the SDA and SDR name. EW 61 last paragraph which says that shepherds should consult those in whom they have reason to have confidence. After this we traveled down to ____, where it was resolved after the camp-meeting that a seminar be planned and held over the issue of a name of the movement, (and the issue of) SDA Babylon falling, and signing a pledge. After 4 days study, the believers saw a necessity of having a new name. Together we agreed that SDR should be our new name. (Editor's Note: Praise God!)
     After ____ meeting then we traveled to meet all the believers of ____ at ____ Center. Here is where brother ____ censure was confirmed on 13th of Feb 2005. Then ____, ____ and ____ traveled to ____ - ____ - ____ where we met with the SDA members and discussed over the present condition of the church and what they should do. We stayed there three days and proceeded to ____ - ____, for two weeks effort which will end on fifth of March 2005. Pray for us.
     To report concerning medical: Tonsillitis - two people; Constipation - 3; Stomach Cramps - 3; Ear problem - 3; Fever - 3; Diarrhea - 1; Coughing - 2; Loss of Appetite - 2; Skin Itching - 4; Fatigue - 2; Muscle Cramps and Pains - 3; Sore Throat - 2; Gas and Fermentation - 3; Epilepsy - 1; Malaria - 1; Enema - 1....
     May God bless you and yours in service.
     P.N., Kenya.


Dear Beloved Bob,
     We have began another new year in service for our Lord, after the great conflict which we faced in our last camp-meeting when Pastor Bill and Becky who were once of Hope International but know of Advent Hope came to our meeting. They were invited secretly to our camp-meeting by some people among us, without consulting other ministers. We received information the day we arrived at the camp, that these visitors will be with us during the camp. Before they (Bill and Becky) came, we met together as minsters and elders and resolved that we should follow gospel order as to these visitors, that we should not allow them to the pulpit without discussing with them first. Though some refused because they were for these visitors. Never-the-less we continued with the camp until the day that these visitors came.
     In arriving, they found the Sanctuary message going on by pastor ____ and after finishing, it was my turn, and I stepped to the pulpit with the prophecy message. We knelt in prayer together and after that I continued with the message of Rev 18 of the falling of Babylon. On that day, I was teaching on how Babel of Nimrod started (step by step to that building of babel), how that tower was a monument of unbelief, how they did not follow what God said, and how this Babel builders rejected the Spirit of Prophecy as given through Noah -- the man of God's appointment.
     After ending my subject, the man (Bill) became crazy and stormed the pulpit in soldier like stature. And he began to ask me if the SDA, the Laodicean church of Rev. 3 in rejecting the Spirit of Prophecy, is Babylon. And because I was teaching the steps in building of Babel, I told him yes, the church can be in a Laodicean condition, but her position be in Babylon. He became crazy and went (away) with his squad who came with him.
     In short the victory was gained, but the camp was divided into two. Many were in favour of this man's doctrine - that the SDA church will never become Babylon. And the reason why their judgement was perverted is because of the reward and promises that this man came with (for all those who would not call the SDA Babylon). Never-the-less we will have a seminar over this issue in February.
     Since the New Year has begun we do as the Apostles mentions in Philippians 3:13-14: "Forgetting those things that are behind and reaching forth unto those things that are before." I do not know what this new year of 2005 will bring to us, but I know Him who will hold the future. We are assured that all things work together for good to them that love God and are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28). Finally read 9T 219-220.
     Yours in His love and in the blessed hope, S., Kenya.


Dear Elder Sessler,
     May the grace of God be unto you as it flows to the rest of His children at this momentous fulfillment of end time prophecies.
     I thank and praise God for His unlimited loving care. Thank you also for the support increase though not yet sufficient especially in my present needy situation; yet I gratefully appreciate whatever the Lord in His mercy tenders me. By His grace I’ve learned to cast all my crushing cares on Him, for His plans and provisions are the most safe, sure and reliable. Praise and honor be to Him.
     From last month to date has been a very busy time for me. Early days of this period were devoted in preparing a quarterly Sabbath School Study guide; followed by visits to Centres in ____ to lead them to elect this year’s officials, and set up work plans for the year. And also lead them in the signing up of the pledge of unity and conducting studies on the name issue for this movement. Our work plans are mature. Everything for ____ Town effort is set up. All we need now is the funds to help us prosecute these plans. Please we pray that the effort shall be funded that it may not delay any longer. We are doing our best, but we need your support brethren from over there. Send me also enough tracts for this endeavor as I had previously e-mailed you.
     For nearly a fortnight now I have been in the South Kenya ____ in cooperation with the other ministers. These centers are undergoing a trying crisis. Satan has succeeded in some extent that some members are rising themselves against the ministers and the advancing truth, especially the points related to the name. It is absurdly sorrowful. However God’s truth is always victorious.
     We have had two sessions of very successful meetings. One for the supported workers and the other for the ____ Center, which suffered serious attacks of the archenemy in the last December Camp. After very humble and yet bold presentations of the truth, and earnest prayers offered by some lonely ministers privately together in early hours before 5 AM daily, this Center saw it's mistakes. Last Sabbath was a day of confessions with many of us there. I thank God for that work, though much more remains to be done for the members to start again to flourish and restore the former good relations with us as leaders following our Divine Head. Pray for these poor souls. I deem that a visit from you brothers shall be of great help in a number of ways to the cause here again.
     May God bless you. M.M., Kenya.


(Combination of 2 letters) Dear bro. Sessler,
     1 Jn. 3:1
     I keep praising God always for His goodness to me, and all. Thanks be to Him who is our life. This we read for our devotion, Heb. 13:5 and Lk 12:5 not knowing that I would get this kind of comfort at this time. I just praise God.
     However, things here are not so good as I had intimated in my last mail. The confusion brought about by the Advent Hope during camp has not settled down, but resentment can still be seen. There are a few issues coming up, and we want to find out about them. The six ministers will meet from 4th thru' 8th February ahead of the major meeting scheduled for 8th thru' 12th to consider these matters. Pray us still because there seems to be one vending rumours.....
     Thanks for your quick response on our brother's plight (of starvation). Indeed we carry on our bodies death always and it comes glory be to God.
     We here embarked on day to day house to house work, and by God's grace we look forward to placing the Bible in as many families as possible. Very few people have this precious Word and to encourage (them to) read what they don't have sometimes is challenging. But never-the-less the message is getting a fair attention. We humbly request here for assistance to purchase Bibles as the few we had last time are now depleted.
     Secondly we look forward to having a bigger effort in ____. With God's blessings we request for more of the "Why Protestants" booklets for the same. Also if you can extend your hands in this endeavour we shall greatly appreciate.
     As we go down to ____ for camp in April, we solicit for your prayers.
     I., Kenya.


(Combination of 2 letters) Dear fellow worker,
     Our God and Father is good to us, because we are enabled through Him to be in this year also. The year has started in a good mood, for new members have joined the movement. Last Sabbath with brothers ____ and ____ we joined the people of God who called on us to go and officiate the opening of their centre. ____ home church has started with 30 members.
     ____ camp-meeting which was conducted from 12-19 December 2004 ended with burying souls into water in Jesus name. Brother, the team of workers here needs prayers and more seminars, something is hiking. My request is: send me Spirit of Prophecy library. (Editor's Note: Will be happy to do so)....
     Since last year things are changing not as it has been. It seems that God's hand in the work is working mightily, at the same time devils is trying bring in obstacles. For this hinderance I am (personally) requesting prayers from sisters and brethrens. Why? Because when I had my mind in ____ camp-meeting, my mother, who was on the way to the destination, was passed (run) over with a pickup vehicle. The Lord helped her. She is alive, (but) nursing her left leg and arm which were bone broken. From 11th December up to now she is in hospital. She needs prayers and means for drugs which are expensive.
     Despite that the work of searching souls is now high, in the ____ I thank God that a man and his wife have joined the movement and others are promising.
     Soon as land for constructing a structure is provided then as many are going to join. For the ____ to receive this new light is impossible to them, but praise God His Spirit has worked. The bad news from the ____ centre, young as it is, and one member passed away and soon be buried. That is a loss to that centre, young as it is, and multiplication of problems to my side as the inciator of that centre.
     Thank you brother sessler for the increasement of the support I received few days back. It helped very much for travelling far and near. When I finished ____ camp centre where eight souls were immersed I went to ____ general hospital to know the condition of my mother. Then I moved to ____, then to ____ center, then back to ____ after two days. These centres need devoted ministers to be assisted. From ____ (I) traveled back to ____ hospital, then to ____ where I stayed for three days.
     Brother ____ and ____ came, (and) we traveled to ____ where we distributed the donation from Let be there Light ministries where eight sacks of corn was shared among the believers who are stricken (with) draught. From Eastern we came back to ____ where I stayed for few days....
     In Nairobi, I had been having meeting with members of "SDA" who are following closely the movement of their structure. Now they are convinced that the structure has gone. They requested me to give them the booklet dealing with church history, but I don't have them. These brethren when we had our last meeting, they vowed to dismantle false walls (barriers) they had raised, then they separate after also shaking ____. So remember them in prayers. Whatever needful to them please send it.
     Yours in the Lord.
     11th hour servant, S., Kenya.


FROM MALAYSIA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dearest Elder Bob,
     Greetings from Malaysia. I'm back to my country now. I had some trouble printing out the booklet "God's Character", but thanks God that I had it solved finally after prayer. I will send you the printed copy either this afternoon or Monday, meanwhile I send you the booklet as attachment....
     Thanks for the support also....I'm sorry for my late report. I have to make photocopy of this booklet plus other things, so please excuse me and I will write you more next week....
     I think you should have received the printed out copy of the booklet "God's Character" by now. It was sent on last Friday, i.e. Feb 18. Meanwhile I'm busy inputting another booklet "Golden Calf Apostasy" the first part of which I had finished using a new program...
     I had finished the translation of another booklet, "Bible History of Separation" Part 1, and now (am) moving on to Part II. I can't promise you when I would finish the input as you will know later why.
     I'm going to visit and have Bible studies with two sisters of another denomination, possibly in two weeks time. They live far away and it is about 5 hrs drive from my home. May God bless them and open their eyes that they may know the Sabbath and present truth then. Please remember them in your prayers.
     Thanks to the generosity of our brethren that I'm able to buy 42 Chinese Bibles and 3 KJV Bibles. One sister is interested to enroll in the Bible Studies Corr. Course. I will send you the name and address later.
     Here comes the bad news. After using computer for inputting and other uses for at least 7 years, maybe owing to my bad postures and ignorances, that now my right hand suffers from possibly called RSI which is "Repetitive Strain Injury". I feel on and off pain in my palm and hand. I think I should quit this inputting for certain period of time until full recovery. I don't know how long it will take but meanwhile I will continue with the translation. (Editor's Note: We will keep you in our prayers for a quick recovery.)
     May His love and guidance continue to bestow upon your ministry!
     With Christian love, (Phi 4:13), V., Malaysia.


FROM PAPUA NEW GUINEA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Elder Bob,
     Greetings from Papua New Guinea.
     On 2nd September, 2004, we had an important conversation with J. in ____ town. ____, ____, ____, and myself, we went into the ____ to lodge in our application for the land to build our church and Evangelism Center in town.  J. was there and interrupted us with questions that led us into a religious discussion....During our discussion J. touched sensitive points which has put us on our knees....J. said he was a member of the Catholic Jesuit Order.
     During his teenage years he was undertaking the training to become a high ranking Jesuit.  During that time he attended conferences, where they discussed mainly secret plans for the “Ecumenism” and “Globalization” of society.
     The infiltration was carried out in five major institutions to over take PNG economy.  Namely - 1. Privatization of Air New Guinea Airlines.  2. Privatization of Post and Telecommunications.  3. Take over the Education and Health Institutions.  4.  Privatization of PNG Banking Corporation.  5.  To take over all the Communication Systems, including TV and Radio Stations.  (Sound familiar?).
     J. said that once all these institutions are under control by the Jesuits, then the whole PNG economy will come under Catholic sovereignty.  J. says, all that we planned in those days has now been implemented and are already under Jesuit control, except the Communication system, especially the Radio Stations.
     J. says, “When the things became clear where the Catholicism was heading, the Lord intervened and led me out to join...the mainstream SDA church.  When I joined this church I thought it would lead me away from all that I’ve been involved in, such as Candle lighting, secret prayer houses, celebrations, Marian worship, the cross and relic worship.  But the (SDA church) is heading back step by step to Rome.  I can see in mainstream Adventism the familiar things that are practiced in Catholicism, so that made me sick.  So I left the church and went into the world.
     “While I was out there, a voice kept on coming in my ears, ‘someone has to expose these evil plans.  Someone has to speak up’.  Until when the self-supporting...or Independent Ministry started preaching and bravely exposing these evil plans, I said ‘This is it!  I know this is God appointed group.  I must be part of it.’  So I joined this movement.”
     He is now an excited man.  He goes around telling his friends and work-mates frankly, that he is an Independent SDA....
     ____ is ____’s brother and he is a Medical Missionary, and our street Evangelist in ____.  A month ago he was preaching in his hometown market.  The mainstream SDA church elder, who was the enemy of (present) truth, mobilized his group and attacked him and damaged all his sound systems.  He didn’t take revenge or say anything; he just sat down before them and wept for what they’ve done to his sound system, for he has no money to buy another one.
     That same night he went home and prayed and said, “Lord forgive them for they know not what they’ve done to me.”  Few days passed, later a big cyclone hit that particular village of the mob who attacked him, starting with the elder’s costly expensive buildings, homes and gardens were destroyed completely.
     As people sat back to acknowledge of the disaster, they realized that the cyclone did not reach out to the other surrounding villages.  The elder’s father realized of what his son and the mob had done few days ago.  He recanted and gathered the villagers and told them that truly the Lord had repaid us of our evil action to the man of God who came and preached here.  Everybody admitted this was true, so they apologized to ____ for what they’ve done and contributed and bought another bigger and better sound system for him.
     ____ is a small township along the ____ inbetween ____ and ____.  Since 1995, when the Self-Supportive Ministry was found, after being kicked out of the mainstream SDA church, the mainstream Adventists prohibited the movement from coming in that region.
     But the Lord raised (up) a young man called ____ from that area who is also a talented spokesman for that region.  After attending one of our Nature Training Camps (a informal Laymen training school in (the) bush), he went to his small township preaching in the villages and that small township.  He faced a bitter opposition from the mainstream Adventists: they threw stones at him, pulled him and strike him down.  Even told him to move to the other region.
     But he faithfully offered Stephen...prayer saying, “Lord, forgive them for they know not what they are doing to me; open their eyes to the truth.”  He defended himself with the Scripture every time they opposed him.
     After almost five years later, people realized that this young man was unmoved by their reviling; he was mean to his stand.
     Later many came and apologized for what they’ve done to him and how they treated him.  They told him to build his own church; so he came and asked help from the Ministry and we gave nails and some money for the building.  And now he has a small church built with more than 10 members regularly attending that church.  He has invited us to dedicate that church and baptized them next month....
     ____ is the ____ largest city in PNG.  According to the yearly planner (of ours) we (were scheduled to) run 5 days street evangelistic program as of 28th February - 4th March based on the subject “Birth and the History of the Pagan Cross”, and also seven nights of outreach program in church.
     The pagan cross message was uprooted (exposed) from its birth date to its present standing position right now, and also I explained its future above how it is going to affect the end time Christians as the clear banner of Satan which will combine the earthly force to attack God’s people....
     As we begin our first message on Monday during lunch period, more crowds been attracted.  Next day and onwards (the) number of attendance increased.  The message preached all through the week come with God’s mighty touching power and the street was too crowded with people from different denominations from far and near.  According to the public comments: “This subject was said to be the first of its kind ever preached since the establishment of S.D.A. Conference in the ____.”
     Most of the S.D.A. Conference (members who were listening) been doubted (began to doubt) and wondered: “When, why, and who did change this three angel’s banner (logo which the SDA church used to use) and replacing (it with) the new apostate logo sign banner (of the cross)?  Those questions fill the minds of many godly people...
     Finally they were blessed with the message from the street.  It’s a real remedy for them.  They were satisfied with the message and said truly from their heart that the newly changed apostate logo sign is Satan’s banner.  They said “Our higher rank leaders, without our notice, they removed God’s true banner which contain His everlasting Gospel.  Our birthright were removed (from the SDA church) and (now is) given to (the) Home Church group with everlasting message.”...
     After the preaching on Friday, many people satisfied and blessed with God’s end time truth.  Many unknown faces were walked in front of us and greet us warmly with smiling faces.  They gave us their contacts and booked me one by one to certain different provinces and areas to run the same program.  Most of the gentiles and conference (members) made their stand to be part of our home church group....
     More than eight cartons of tracts, booklets, plus 1000 copies of Pidgin papers about (the) Sabbath were distributed (all over the region).  Booklets like: “Why Protestants Bowing to Pope”,...etc....
     Your prayers and support to boost God’s work here in PNG will be rewarded.
     Your fellow servants in His service, P.K., Papua New Guinea.


FROM THE PHILIPPINES

(Combination of 3 letters) Dear Bro Bob,
     1 John 3:1.
     Hi! How are you? Just want to greet you a very blessed new year. Another year has passed again and now we could see with our eyes that it is true that the coming of Christ is nearer now than ever before through the signs of the times that are now happening around the world. We'd been praying that we could all be ready and fitted for the soon translation of those faithful. May God continue use us in this another year in spreading His good news to those who are still in darkness.
     Also, I thank the Lord for His continued guidance and blessing especially for the past year. I want to take this opportunity also to thank you bro Bob and your supporters for the helped and support you've been sharing to your fellow brethren here and around the world for the spreading of His kingdom. I'd been praying always that God may continue bless you and your ministries so that more souls will be won for God.
     By the way, I finished already the booklet "Will You Answer Christ's Prayer?" and I will send it to you now. Just want to request to please let me know once you received it...
     God's hand is still in His work here. We just came back from ____ and thank God that we were able to labor and give some striking message to our family there and also to share our faith with a lady. This lady is very open for our message especially about the Sabbath. We are looking forward to go back there and meet again this lady. Also this coming end of the month we will be having a fellowship in ____. We are hoping and praying that all the brethren here in ____ will come and attend in this gathering....
     I'd started already the translation of the booklet "Fires and Plagues of Fanaticism." I am doing it, though we are so very busy in our missionary effort here. Last week, we held our fellowship in ____. We went there early Friday morning, and we went home on Sunday. We spent our Sabbath there with our brethren who came from other home churches....
     After our tent effort in ____, we also held tent effort or crusade in ____. Through the cooperation of all the brethren here, and especially through the help and blessing of our dear Lord, it was made possible. We did house to house first, distributing tracts and giving invitations to the people to attend for the tent effort. The truths were presented to the people very clearly, and the people were very interested to hear it. A lady convicted of the truth she hears and decided to follow the Lord and the truth we have. She is joining us now in worshipping on Sabbath with her three kids. Last Sabbath, her husband also come with her and spend Sabbath with us. Her husband is working in ____, and he went back again there. But we shared also with him what we believe and he believe and accept it also. Not only that, the Lord also open a lot of work for us here. We met a lot of people who are open for Bible studies, and we've been sharing with them now. We'd been praying that the Lord will convicts the hearts of these people and will also accept the truth. The people are now really open and ready to hear and accept the truth. Let us pray for these souls....
     Hope to hear from you soon! May God richly bless you, your ministry and your family.
     Your's in Christ, S.B., Philippines.


FROM UGANDA, EAST AFRICA

(Combination of 2 letters) Dear Elder Sessler,
     Greetings in the loving name of our blessed Saviour. Thanks a lot for the support and work monies. May the Almighty God bless the pockets that have offered to support his work in Africa and the rest of the world. It is not an easy thing in our demanding times. Spirit of Prophecy calls for such as Nicodemus who spent earnings to sustain the brethrens in Jerusalem and where so ever there was need to the uttermost of the world, “After the Lords ascension, when the disciples were scattered by persecution, Nicodemus came boldly to the front. He employed his wealth in sustaining the infant Church.” Desire of Ages, p 177.
     The Bible speaks of the generosity of the Churches in Macedonia though they had suffered an earthquake, which greatly damaged most of their things and left them in want, but they were determined to stand with God’s people in Jerusalem, who too were being persecuted by the established Church then.
     Africa has been run down with many troubles that we find ourselves almost born beggars and depending on others. It is a painful experience, brothers, oh!...
     Inspiration hath this: “The greatest want of the world is the want of men - men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inner most souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.” Education, p 57. “The Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people.” Psalms 87:6.
     Made several visitations to different parts of our country. Shared we with the homes which welcomed me. Moved to ____, to ____ and other parts with purpose of sharing Him who died on the cross of Calvary in my stead. Thanks be to God who enables us to do the few things which is in our power, to bring people to the knowledge of Christ. It is our prayer that at least every day a soul is told about the love of Jesus or some tracts are given, the rest we leave to the all knowing Father to take care, for the rains and sunshine are His, the agents of growth.
     I have the impressions that you people are passing through difficult moments, but the one who blesses Jacob shall bless you mightily, even “Give and it shall be given unto thee: good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” Luke 6:38. Our Father cares: He who encouraged Joshua saying, "prepare the victuals; for within three days ye shall pass the Jordan", (so) we stand in the shadow of the eternal day, we at threshold of the promised Land. So, (as) the sentry of Lord, (I say) "lose not hope, we can see heavenly Canaan standing out yonder, He that has promised cannot deceive for He is faithful, even Jehovah Jireh."...
     Elder, (we) have started building. I have so far reached Dump Course (DPC level) and few bricks have gone up on the sides to almost widow level, it is a small house of 22ft x 39ft. The Lord has helped me greatly. There is no way I (can) demonstrate, but all gratitude is His, that I who has nothing in the things of this world He is putting up shelter for many poor souls, the wayfaring persons and God's peoples at large, for many will find a home in this place when finished.
     It is my prayer that He can buy me an iron sheet or two is welcome. It costs from 18,000= Ushs to 24,000= Ushs (1,500 Ushs equals $1.00 US) depending on the gauge and other descriptions. 44 pieces of iron sheets are required (30 pieces= 1 meter by 10 feet and 14 pcs of 1 meter by 8 feet). A bag cement or two, any help is most welcome. A bag goes for 18,000 Ushs (50 bags are needed, 20 for making the floor, 20 for building the walls and 10 for plastering). Timber of 600,000 to 800,000 Ushs depending on the type. Windows 2 pcs (of 75,000 Ushs and 5 pcs 55,000 Ushs). Whosoever can purchase one or any number I will praise the Father of all flesh. Doors 9 pcs. (one of 200,000 Ushs another of 120,000 Ushs, the rest at 90,000 Ushs). These are the most important, the others can be brought in later when some one is already using the building. Issues like ceiling, electricity, etc., can come later. Whosoever can come to my help I will be grateful; whosoever has no physical help let him/her pray that the Lord may impress others. Thanks.
     Wish you a happy moment in the service the Lord.
     Yours faithfully, H.K., Uganda.


FROM ZAMBIA, CENTRAL AFRICA

(Combination of 3 letters) Elder Bob,
     Ps 46:1
     I write to report to you for the work that is going on here in Zambia and other countries where (I) am visiting.
     In this month a lot has been going on in the work here and outside. After the Zimbabwe trip in October 2004, I was home for few weeks to prepare for another trip. Whilest home distributions of the last materials we had in the house were going on and some people came for Bible studies with us. We praise God a sister from the SDA church joined us in the home church in ____. Pray for this sister since her husband is Sunday keeper.
     By the grace of God br. ____ revisited Zimbabwe again...where he had more work with brethren there. His time (is) very busy conducting Bible studies with many who wanted to hear more about the present truth messages. When he left the place we praise God that those who he had time with still need these truths.
     Moreover, I received another call from the brethren in Namibia were I was told to go and attend a family retreat programme and the schedule was already drawn and was one of the facilitates. We praise God though things were so hard in our sight on the finances, but time came when the great Lord opened a way...We left Zambia and arrived in ____ on Sunday where we waited for the brethren to pick us as they had already gone to the camping place....
     This was a good time and at the very nice country place. Brethren from Zimbabwe were already in and br. ____ from South Africa. Elder Bob we experienced a very good spirit that the Lord wanted us to receive as we meet from different countries. Most of us were couples, and so the lessons were so specific to help us prepare for the second coming of Christ as families. After a week (at) camp, we had a soul ready for baptism, and so we gave chance to a br. ____ from Zimbabwe to begin the work of baptism as to continue in their country. My dear Elder we were blessed that with showers of rains for the first time in that area immediately after baptism. We also had our Lord's Supper after the whole programme. A lot was reviewed that is hindering unity in our families.
     After this programme, we all left the place. Our friends from Zimbabwe and South Africa were released, but us, me and my wife, we were told to remain behind in ____ town, Namibia to go around some brethren's families to encourage them and study with them for another week. During this time br. ____'s wife and child were sick, especially for the child very sick. So we again had good experience with the medical work. I praise God they were all fine in two days time. A lot was done with some families who had some frictions. I also request you to include them in your special prayers (br. and sr. ____). On Sabbath we again meet with some families from ____ and within ____. On this Sabbath the Lord blessed us with very strong testimonies from the SOP and the Bible to show each one's problem in the faith.
     Then on Sunday the 9th Jan. 2005 we were escourted by the ____ family up to our Zambian boundary....When we reached home we found our two girls sick. We tried (to heal them) with the little herbs we had. One, the last born 6 yrs old, responded well, but the second born 9 yrs old was very sick till was taken to hospital where the discovery (was) that she had a bad malaria and the liver was swelling. We praise God (that) after some enemas, she, with little treatment at the hospital, is fine now.
     I am requesting you brethren to continue with your special prayers because I can not stop the movements when the Lord demands me to do so....
     I am (currently) with Elder ____ in ____ of Zambia for few things. The Elder came here to visit, but praise God a lot of work in the spreading of this truths has been done. He has preached to some former friends - members of the SDA - about this message, and they have accepted it. I was with him to these houses yesterday and we talked on the same with these brethren who are presently looking for the materials....
     Moreover, Elder ____ was also given time and chance to preach on ZNBC media programmes for three months, from now to April. I have also been given the same opportunity to present health massages on radio as the man in charge of the programmes is Elder ____'s nephew. (Editor's Note: Praise God, and will keep this in my prayers)....
     I got the mail bag and also a small parcel which sr. Michele sent for me. May God's name be glorified for this parcel. Tell Michele that I am very thankful and may God bless her more for the great work....
     Will be with you always in prayers.
     Yours in the blessed name, W., Zambia.