July 23, 2021 Brethren Letter
Dear Brethren,
Recently, a Church member shared some news sources with me that he likes to listen to, and other ones he likes to read from. He definitely has a good understanding of world events in light of Bible prophecy. This person is very selective on what he watches and listens to (rightfully so), knowing the sources that have a good track record in presenting facts, and which sources cannot be trusted.
A few years ago, I was listening to a news program on the internet, when a vendor came into our place of business. The vendor noticed I was listening to something and asked, “Oh, what are you listening to?” I responded, “I was listening to some news.” She answered back, “How can you waste your time listening to the news, it’s all so negative. I don’t bother with the news.”
On the other hand, a delivery man also came into our store and began talking about “the world around us.” He made an interesting statement during the conversation. He said, “I don’t believe most people have even a clue about what goes on [in the world]. They just aren’t paying any attention.”
So, there we see two different opinions on the same overall subject. One person doesn’t listen to the news because it’s too negative, the other person believes most people don’t have a clue about what’s happening in the world since they aren’t paying attention. I can understand both of their viewpoints. However, when it comes to “looking at the world around us,” we should not be concerned with the opinions of people. We MUST be concerned with what Christ told us, when looking at world events.
(29) Then He spoke to them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. (30) When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. (31) So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. (32) Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all things take place. (33) Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. (34) “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.
(35) For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. (36) Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:29-36).
When we watch the news in the way that Christ expects of us, we’re not viewing it for entertainment. We as GOD’S PEOPLE WATCH what is happening in light of Bible prophecy! That’s the approach Christ expects of us!
In the world today, ESPECIALLY in the Middle East, God’s end-time apostle (Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong) stated many times, “Watch the Middle East.” Here’s what he wrote in a Brethren, Co-Worker Letter – May 16, 1985:
Keep your eyes on the Middle East, for the final world crisis will center on that area.
Granted, today’s news isn’t good. But, brethren there is good news just ahead that will eventually end all of today’s BAD news. The good news ahead is the gospel Jesus preached when He was here on this earth – the coming Kingdom of God!
…Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel [GOOD NEWS] of the kingdom of God”, (Mark 1:14).
And the LORD shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be — “The LORD is one,” And His name one (Zechariah 14:9).
…Thus the LORD my God will come, And all the saints with You (Zechariah 14:5).
That’s the kind of news the world desperately needs! Someday, VERY SOON, the earth will have it!
Have a good Sabbath, everyone!
Your Brother in Christ,
Gary Liebold