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Higher Use of Money
Thank God for money ! Of course we've been cogently forbidden to serve
money; but rather to use money in a manner that makes it count in the
kingdom of God (Matthew 6:19 - 21; Luke 16:1 - 9). However, when one
observes the non-economic purposes that money is used for, among the
children of this world, he can become extremely suspicious about money
itself. "Money is used as a weapon to bully people and keep them in line.
Money is used to buy prestige and honor. Money is used to enlist the
allegiance of others. Money is used to corrupt people. Money is used for
many things: it is one of the greatest powers in human society. (Richard J.
Foster 1985 p. 54). Now, the world uses money in non-economic ways that are
both selfish and greedy. Nevertheless, we ought not to disregard money, but
use it for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Jesus said, "...use
worldly wealth (unrighteous mammon) to gain friends for yourself, so that
when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings" (Luke 16:9 NIV).
Too often money tends to isolate,
instead of bringing people together. It took a crisis for the unjust
steward, in Luke 16:1 - 9, to act quickly and secure meaningful friendship
for the future. Before this crisis, he never reached out to build
friendship. A lot of people don't realize that money can be wiped out in one
crisis. The unjust steward was about to be terminated, and his lavished
lifestyle would end. So, he peered into the future and realized that, no one
would be there to take care of him, neither would he be able to take care of
himself. Without the permission of his boss, he called the debtors in and
generously reduced their debts. Such a desperate plan of action guaranteed
him friends who would receive him after his termination.
"When life’s journey ends, will it
be well with you? Will you be ready for a welcome at the end by being
generous in your life now? "Jesus taught that the resources of this life
were already passing away. An eternal dwelling could be secured only by a
wise use of those things that will fail " (Norman H. Young 1985 p. 51).
Ellen White (1941) says, "Alas, how many are appropriating to themselves the
gifts of God! How many are adding house to house and land to land? How many
are spending their money for pleasure, for the gratification of appetite,
for extravagant houses, furniture and dress? Their fellow beings are left to
misery and crime, to disease and death. Multitudes are perishing without one
pitying look, one word or deed of sympathy. Men are guilty of robbery toward
God. Their selfish use of means robs the Lord of the glory that should be
reflected back to Him in the relief of suffering humanity and the Salvation
of souls. They are embezzling His entrusted goods (Christ Object Lessons p.
371; Malachi 3:5,8,9; James 5:1; Isaiah 2:20,21; Mark 8:36).
Finally, "The proper use of money is not for living high down here; that
would be a very poor investment indeed. No, the proper use of money is for
investing as much of it as possible in the lives of people, so that we will
have treasure in heaven. Of course, we need to keep a certain amount of
money in order to carry on the day to day business of life, but we want to
free up as much as we possible can in order to place it where the return is
eternal " (Richard J. Foster 1985 p. 55; Matthew 6:19 - 21). It's far better
to gain friends and lose money, than to lose friends and gain money.
Whatever God has communicated to us, we are responsible for declaring that
message to others even if that requires money that God has entrusted into
our care. -Pastor Peter Joseph, Ministerial, Personal Ministries and Sabbath
School Director
Cat Island Advancement Society Homecoming #17
“How good and blessed for brethren to travel and live together in love and
unity.” Under cloudy skies, and scattered rain-drops, members of the Cat
Island Advancement Society along with family members boarded Bahamasair
flight for Arthur's Town Cat Island. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the
President of our conference, Dr. Leonard Johnson and his family, and Elder
Henry Moncur, under sunny skies. About 5:45 Friday afternoon, the brethren
boarded a bus, and they sang songs until the bus arrived at the Devil's
Point church. Pastor Leroy Sewell (non-resident pastor for the district)
gave the charge "The way of the Cross Leads Home", which was in harmonywith
the theme "Nearing Home." Sabbath morning the sermon came from our beloved
president, Pastor Leonard Johnson. He gave us food for thought about Jairus'
daughter being raised from the dead. At the end of the service, a fellowship
lunch was held, and all dined sumptuously. The Sabbath services
concluded with AY, when a Question and Answer period was enjoyed by all.
-Martha Lady Rolle, Assistant Secretary, Cat Island Advancement Society
Sneaker Sabbath The little church in Gambier
just keeps moving! Every third Sabbath of the month, we head out into the
village with our "Sneaker Sabbath" as a part of our community outreach
program. What is "Sneaker Sabbath"? Do we really wear sneakers? Yes, we do!
Arrayed in yellow, red and white Gambier SDA T-shirts, we hit the streets
with the message of Jesus Christ through the printed word, prayers and words
of encouragement. The community has been quite receptive to our monthly
visits and have been responding favorably. Continue to pray for us as we
impact Gambier village for Christ! -Anastacia Ferguson
“Don’t Miss The Boat” -Women’s Ministries A fun
afternoon is planned for all family members with the Women’s Ministries
Pre-Mothers’ Day Boat Cruise. Tickets are available from your local WM
Leader for the cruise on April 29, 2007, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Dinners will
be available for a small donation. There will be lots of fun, laughter, food
and fellowship. Don’t let the boat leave you, get your boarding pass early!
-Miriam Knowles, Women’s Ministries Director, BC
Jesus or "Nuttin" Children's Bible Study Club
It is becoming more evident that though most of our children may know some
Bible stories, they really don't understand what we believe, or do they dive
directly into the word of God? Why? Simply put, our regular Bible study
classes do not cater to children. At Gambier we have established a
children’s Bible study club which is directed towards helping children
understand doctrinal truths, memorize scriptures, and actually get into the
habit of reading their Bibles. The creative methods coupled with
incentives used by Sisters Eunice Butler and Anastacia Ferguson have
captivated the interest and aroused the enthusiasm of the young people. Some
of our special features include The Psalm Corner, Direct Dive (1 Samuel) and
Bible Directory. Since the Bible study club was established on March 22,
2007, we have experienced a tremendous growth in attendance. Attendance has
actually tripled, this growth has been actualized due to the excited
children sharing their experience with others in the community. Presently,
the majority of the children in attendance are non-Adventists. We encourage
all interested parents and children to support us at Gambier each Thursday
from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with your presence and prayers. -Anastacia Ferguson
Bethany Conducts YouthAGLOW The youth
department of the The Bethany Seventh-day Adventist Church conducted a week
of spiritual revival under the labeling, YouthAGLOW. Adults and youth joined
hands in creating an energetic and spirit-filled revival.
The eight-day spiritual emphasis was held from March 31 to April 8, 2007.
Under the theme, "Sold out to Jesus," the initial service had its exciting
and powerful presentations done by Rashawn Gardiner and Dillette Miller.
On Monday evening, our youth had
the opportunity to express themselves in a youth forum. Wednesday night was
truly a blessing as Ramona Lewis and Don Kemp presented thought-provoking
messages at our Prayer, Power and Praise service. Elder Brian Evans led our
youth into a special dedicatory prayer.
On Friday, April 6, our youth
Sabbath School Teachers, Jackie Smith and Marcia Hamilton, began a retreat
at the Adventure Learning Camp. It was dubbed "Youth Quake." The objective
of this concept is to "shake up a generation of youth for the cause of God."
Over 30 persons attended this invigorated experience.
The adults enjoyed a Praise and
Worship workshop vesper service entitled “Joy in the Evening.” Our
presenters for this session were Ida Stuart and John Bonamy. This was a
transforming experience as we were led to realize the sanctity of Praise and
Worship in our services. A resolution was made to make praise and worship a
lifestyle and not just a part of our formal services.
On Sabbath, April 7, we concluded our services with our youth being featured
at the Divine Service. Ramonne Gardiner and Elder Harvey Braithwaite were
the speakers. As a result of the week's activities, two precious souls
deepened their relationship with God and were baptized. To God be the glory!
In the afternoon, the church family joined for AY Service at the camp site.
The singing was "off-the-chain." It was truly an indication of what can be
done when all unite their efforts for the glory of God.
Sunday morning, April 8 climaxed
the historical occasion. A prayer breakfast was held in which Sis Shenique
Smith, Prayer Coordinator for the Bethany Church, brought the devotional
thought admonishing us to develop a prayer life. Sis Dillette Miller, Youth
Leader, focused her remarks on Matt 6:33 which reminded us that we should
"seek first the kingdom of God." When this is done we can get out of the
boat and "walk on the water" of life's issues, like Peter did.
The week's activities could not have been such a success without the support
and spiritual guidance of Pastor Kent Price, our pastor, and our first
Elder, Brother Raymond Antonio. Mention must be made of Bro Randy Forbes on
the bass guitar, Bro Gavin Duncanson on the lead guitar, Sis Dolce Rolle on
the violin and Elder Raymond, on the keyboard. As music laced our services,
it was a great testament to what can happen when the church of God uses the
'team approach' for the cause of Christ. Undoubtedly, the Bethany Church is
"Sold out to Christ." God is good to us, how can we let Him down? -Dillette
Brown-Miller, AY Leader
Evangelism School Evangelism School will
continue on Sunday, April 15, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hillview Church.
Pastor Peter Joseph will teach on Discipleship, Spiritual Growth and
Spiritual Formation. All persons who began the class are encouraged to be
present. All newly baptized members are encouraged to attend.
New Providence Church Sanctuary Choir Says
Thank you The Pastor and Sanctuary Choir members of the New Providence
Church, express their sincere appreciation and thanks for the support of
their concert held on Sabbath past for Elder Arthur Maycock (who is
recuperating at home). A gigantic thanks to the master of ceremonies Bro.
Vernal Rolle for a job well done. -E. Pintard
Mortgage Burning Ceremony Pastor Paul A.
Scavella, Sr., the Elders, officers and members of the Living Faith
Adventist Church, Old Trail Road, invite you to their church “Mortgage
Burning Ceremony” on Sunday, April 15, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. -Vesta Williams
Sale! Sale! Lebert McBean, our full-time
Literature Evangelist is pleased to announce an incredible Book Sale for the
month of April while stock lasts for members of the Seventh-day Adventist
Church, on the following catagories of Books: Health Food Encyclopedia,
Medical Plant Encycolopedia, Medical and Relationship Books, Character
Building Story Books for children, books for Teenagers and other religious
books. Call Brother McBean at 426-2279 for more information. This incredible
sale is not available at the ABNC only from McBean!.
Tell the World Your Church is making a
difference. Tell the entire conference, the Bahamas and the world what you
are doing to shed the light of the gospel in your local church. This
information is to be submitted to the Conference by the communication
secretary of the church by Tuesday at 12:00 noon. The information may be
used in the Logos and/or the Adventist Page.
✽All church officers having served forty years or more, are asked to submit
their names to their church clerk urgently.
Publishing Ministry Weekend Next Weekend, April
20-22, 2007, the Publishing Ministry will be promoted in all churches in the
Bahamas Conference. Special services will be held at the New Englerston
church as follows: Friday, April 20th, 7:30 p.m., Sabbath, April 21, 11:00
a.m. and 5:30 p,m., Sunday, April 22, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Training for
colporteurs). 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. training and commitment service. Dr. Joseph
Barrett, Publishing Director of West Indies Union, will be the guest speaker
for the weekend. Persons who are interested in participating in the
Publishing Ministry are invited to contact Pastor Carey at 341-4021 or
324-0470.
Children's Ministries Upcoming Events Vacation
Bible School workshop (VBS workshop) - Sunday, April 29 at Hillview church
from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon.
Adventist Book Centre Open Tomorrow The ABNC
will be open tomorrow, Sunday, April 15, from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Come
check out our new stock of canned and frozen Vegetarian meats. -C.
Blackmore, ABNC Manager
Hour of Gospel Music The Hour of Gospel Music
at the Mary Ingraham Home continues weekly on Sabbaths from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Today, April 14, the Johnson Park Church is expected. Next week Sabbath,
April 21, Living Faith Church is scheduled.
Youth Announcements
✽Pathfinders Camp - (August 7-12, 2007) -Persons interested in
working as counselors or volunteers in the up-coming camp are asked to
register their names at the Conference Office Youth Department.
✽Adventist Volleyball Season begins on April 21st. Teams can begin
registration for volleyball by contacting their local AY Leaders for the
registration form or coming to the Office. All teams should be registered by
April 13th with registration fees paid. Games begin Saturday, April 21st,
8:30pm at the Bahamas Academy Gym.
✽The Listen Up Jingles and Logo Competition will be postponed to Sunday, May
27, 2007 at Nirvana Beach, when we will be having our grand Listen Up Fun
Day! The new deadline to have your submissions in is Thursday, May 17, 2007.
Complete the appropriate form found on the Listen Up website
www.bahamasconference.org/listenup and check out the prizes! Send
your names in to listenupyouthministries @gmail.com.
✽Sports Council to meet Saturday April 14th, 2007 at BA Gym at 8:30 p.m. All
coaches of Basketball, Softball, Volleyball and Track & Field are asked to
be in attendance.
✽IAD Local Bible Bowl competition to be held on Friday April 20, 2007 at
Bahamas Academy at 8 p.m.
✽Uniform Inspection April 22 at Grant’s Town Church, all clubs are to be in
attendance if they will be on the May 6th parade. There should be no club at
your local church on this date, all roads lead to Grant’s Town, this
includes our Master-guides, Master-guides in Training and persons who would
like to march with us. Parents of Pathfinders and Adventurers are asked to
also be at this inspection beginning 9:00 a.m. so that we may address
concerns you have. -Curtis Bryan, Assosciate Youth Director, Bahamas
Conference
Upcoming Events Marriage Standards Committee Meeting will be
on Wednesday, April 25, 2007, at 2:00 p.m. in the Board Room, Conference
Headquarters
Music Standards Committee Meeting will be on Sunday, April 22, 2007, at
10:30 a.m. The Lounge, Conference Headquarters.
Sun sets today at 7:32 p.m.
Sun sets next Sabbath at 7:35 p.m.
