disservice

I don't feel like I am being done a disservice spiritually. I have so many incredible resources: the words of life, the HS, a supportive and edifying husband, a meat-feeding ministry. This is not to mention that I have the commandments and statutes. What else could I ask for or expect?

What if you were a young person, our age or younger, who did not have a number of those things? Your parents, at least at some point in their life, certainly did, but you don't have all the components to truly prepare for what's ahead.

The question in my mind is, "Whose responsibility is it to see to it that you are given the opportunity to truly fulfill your sanctification, calling, and the responsibility you perhaps accepted at baptism?" Is it my job to reach out to others in other churches and somehow convince them to be a part of the Work?

Let's say the hypothetical-me says it is my responsibility, at least within my own realm and social circle. How do I go about it? How do I go about convincing others that the Work and being fed spiritually are vital to preparing for not only the coming Tribulation but eternal life? Keep in mind the target audience is 2nd generation Sabbath & HD observers. Should I go above and beyond to see this group of people?

A number of good friends are struggling with this. These are people I care about and I really want to empathize and understand fully not only their thought process, but be appropriately supportive of their stance.

Mark and I have been discussing it over the course of the past few weeks. Tonight we had a breakthrough conversation which, to me, just made sense. Here are a few things we've been tossing around. These thoughts are more chronological in nature, not significance and poignance.

1) If the ministry frowns on congregating with other churches of God, it's for a good reason. As a general principle, if a minister tells me something and it doesn't sit right or I just don't like it, I suck it up and usually figure out their thought process later. A number of ministers in Living have mentioned that they have disagreed with a concept the leading men put forth, even to the point of considering leaving the ministry. But they didn't because they recognized their place and recalled the vision. If there is a doctrinal issue, I've heard of people submitting papers. You may get told you're wrong and need to review your stance, but at least you were heard. There is a proper attitude, proper channels.

2) If we tried to save everyone to whom we thought a disservice had been done, we'd be accountable for every human that has ever lived. All we can do is the make the resources available to them, re. the old adage: "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink."

3) We are to be an example. Two scriptures: Phil. 3:17 -- Brethren join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. And Heb. 4:11 -- Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same pattern of disobedience.

4) Awhile back Mr. B. was telling us about an opportunity he had to speak often at one of the Church of God Seventh Day congregations. They *loved* him, educated and well-versed. He offered them meat. He could have come to see them once a month and possibly have acquired 10 or 12 members. However, he's only ever spoken once. Why? You don't steal other shepherds' sheep.

Finally, God takes care of His own. God will do with all what He wills.