Greetings Brethren! So much happening in the Work, as time marches on and so does prophecy.
Betty and I have returned from our trip through San Diego on our way to the central coast of California. I decided to take Betty back (first) to one our favorite places, San Diego.
It was delightful, to visit with the San Diego Brethren, who are also very on fire for the Work. They reminded me of you all! I spoke on the Preachers of Righteousness; and it was very well received, as it has been over here. I hope to continue that theme in Albuquerque and Santa Fe tomorrow.
Then we went up to San Luis Obispo or “SLO” as some say; and stayed very near there, in a beautiful area right on the beach. It was nice to just “do nothing” for a few days, to walk along the beach on our 40th anniversary. Of course we did “check out” the new Feast site in San Luis Obispo, which is just beautiful.
This site, by far is one of the nicest sites we have had the Feast at, yet. The hotel is perfect for all sorts of entertaining in our rooms or on-site, with our activities. The nightly rate of $124 plus tax is an exceptional value for families; as all 17 and under, are free in the room, which includes a pull out sleeper bed in the living room and 2 queens or one king in the bedroom area. Your two room suite at the Embassy also includes double sinks (one in the hall and one in the bathroom), a free cooked to order breakfast and nightly free refreshments (including food and drinks — inc. wine) from 5 to 7 PM. The main meeting hall is very comfortable; and there will be no problems with viewing the stage from anywhere in the room. Yes, also, no parking problems, either. Can it get any better?
The hotel also includes an indoor pool; and all the rooms have a view of the beautiful inside atrium. I was very encouraged, when we “tested out” the beds too. These are very comfortable!
SLO will be a great feast site for activities. We at present plan to have a whale watching trip, a day at the beach with canoes and a “sub sea” boat for under-water viewing, etc., a Fiesta Dance and talent show, a singles mixer possibly on a harbor cruise boat and tours to Hearst Castle and or Solvang and maybe a vineyard tour, once again. That last tour was very popular in Glenwood Springs.
“Back at the ranch” we have had several new people return from the TWSPs and our growth seems to be steady and upward overall. Phoenix is now broadcasting on a conference line to scattered brethren; and we are setting the next Las Cruces Bible Study, probably March 10 Friday evening. If you are in the area stop in!
As well, Albuquerque and Santa Fe will be switching times on Feb 11th, with Santa Fe probably beginning at 11 or 11:30 AM and Albuquerque beginning in the later afternoon. I will advise on the exact times and new location of Albuquerque shortly.
Brethren, doors are opening to us. As example, all of sudden we have three hall possibilities that “just” opened up in Albuquerque and two hall locations in Las Cruces. This was great! God knows the right timing on things. We, as His people, however, have to be good followers, with willing hearts and rights attitudes.
As example, this new hall will save even more money than previous halls. Plus, it is more centrally located; and will also allow us a lot of flexibility.
What a wonderful blessing to have another quality type meeting hall at an additional savings and a place for our storage too. The change will also help those in Santa Fe with the winter driving back home during the day, instead of at night.
So as soon as the contracts are fully executed, I will announce the new location. Till then stay tuned!
One scripture that comes to mind with any change, is that of the story of Ruth. Today we have many trials going on, right before Passover. Many health trials especially, for whom we all need to be praying, that God is merciful to all those suffering.
The righteous lady Ruth had experienced the loss of her husband and her brother-in-law. Her whole family had gone through many changes because of that. She could have been bitter but she understood she had a choice. She chose a different path and in doing so, ended up in the very linage of King David for her responsive attitude.
Notice what she said: “But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.” (Ruth 1:16-17 NIB)
These words are so beautiful and when changes occur in our lives, do we reflect a giving responsive way, resolved to continue in God’s ways? Or do we choose our own words, ways or ideas?
“When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders [interesting statement: Christ was not a weak leader] to cross to the other side of the lake. 19 Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” 20 Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” 21 Another disciple said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” 22 But Jesus told him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” (Matthew 8:18-22 NIB)
These individuals offered excuses. Sad, when you consider that so many could be helping to finish this Work. The good news is that many in the Living Church of God are on fire for God’s Work and thank you Brethren for being so motivated here in the Southwest. Let’s follow God and Christ to finish that job!
Tomorrow, Church services will be in all the usual locations and times — Albuquerque at 11:00 AM and Santa Fe at 3 PM; Tucson and Prescott at 10:30 AM and Phoenix at 3:00 PM.
Have a peaceful Sabbath evening!
Sincerely,
Rodger L. Bardo
Area Pastor AZ-NM
602-910-1086
rlbardo@aol.com
