Greetings From Clarendon 

In August, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit our brethren and ministry in the Philippines. We were welcomed with sincere love and appreciation, and I am pleased to say that our members and the Work of God in the Philippines continues to be blessed. Through the support of HQ, we recently signed a contract to commence airing on TV A2Z, at 10:30pm every Sunday evening and, with the additional advertising on Facebook, we are excited to see how God will continue to open other doors in the country.

While there, we conducted a three-day ministerial conference with all the Filipino ministry in attendance. Nine ministers and their wives were edified by lectures delivered by Church Administration Director Dr Winnail (online), Regional Pastor Mr Joseph Gonzales, Area Pastors Mr Felipe Casing and Mr Basilo Osillos and myself. Nicole and I also had the privilege of meeting with our members in Davao, Naga City and Manila during our three-week visit. We have such fond memories!

It is now only weeks, perhaps days, by the time you read this ANU, before the Holy Days commence. I cannot believe we are nearing the end of another Holy Day Season and the end of 2023. But, of course, each day is a blessing and every day God gives us is precious. I saw this quote and wanted to share it with you all. “Yesterday’s the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” – Bil Keane. Yes, I agree that each day is a wonderful gift that God has given us to appreciate His creation and the awesome opportunity to one day join with Christ as His bride. But how do we use our time? What did you do today? Was it profitable? Did you consider your day as a “present”, as a gift from God? In the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul admonishes us to use every day with purpose, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15- 16).

There is no need to list all the evil that is going on in the world – certainly we all see that society is unravelling at an alarming rate. However, every day is a gift and God wants to see that we are growing in His grace and increasing in the fruits of His Spirit. As members of God’s Church, we must be a shining example in this dark world. Jesus said that we are to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Soon, most of us will be heading off to observe the Feast of Tabernacles. We will travel to destinations
where people will learn you are from “that Church”. Sure, not everything will always work out as you planned, but as Ambassadors for Christ, please consider how we conduct ourselves. Perhaps your meal takes too long to be served, your accommodation is a little dirty or perhaps it is a little too hot or a little cold. How you react is your choice, yet, if God’s Spirit is growing in us, if we are grateful for each day, then we will reflect the Spirit of Christ and reflect the attitude of the Apostle Paul who found a way to be content in every situation he faced – regardless of the disappointments!

Brethren, I hope that you are both physically and spiritually prepared for the Holy Days. “The night is far spent, the day is at hand” (Romans 13:12). Be safe and have an uplifting and profitable Holy Day Season. With sincere love and affection,

In Christ’s Service,

Robert Tyler
Regional Director