Greetings brethren! I am amazed at how fast July and August had passed. By the time you read this short article we will only be a few weeks away from the Fall Festivals. I hope your preparation for the Feast days has already begun.

As we read or watch the news we are reminded of the many trials and troubles of this world. Warfare, disease, rising rates of crime, calamities of increasing magnitude and economic uncertainties are a regular feature of most newspapers, magazines and newscasts. We read or hear of peoples lives shattered by such forces on a daily basis. Sadly, many people undergoing these trials have little hope for the future.

Each year we experience the wonderful blessing of observing the Fall Festivals and in doing so we are reminded of God’s plan of salvation for all mankind. God desires that all mankind be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). There is hope for all mankind. Although the immediate future may appear bleak for so many in this world, a better, brighter future awaits us all.

During the Feast of Trumpets we are reminded of the imminent return of Jesus Christ and the resurrection of the saints. A system referred to as Babylon in scripture that has brought about so much suffering and heartache will be destroyed and never allowed to flourish again. On the Day of Atonement we are reminded that the author of that system, Satan the Devil, will be bound for a thousand years and will ultimately be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-10). But these events are just the beginning of a better future for mankind.

As we observe the Feast of Tabernacles, we will review many scriptures detailing the glorious kingdom of God—the wonderful world of tomorrow! A world regulated by the law of love which will allow mankind to enjoy peace and prosperity. A world in which the nature of man and beast will be changed (Isaiah 11). Immoral behavior, hatred and murder will be replaced with self-control, love, peace and joy. Starvation and disease will be replaced with an abundant food supply and the blessing of good health. On the eighth day of the Feast, we are reminded that all who have lived and died and never had an opportunity to experience God’s way of life will be resurrected and given the opportunity to enjoy life according to God’s law.

Even though the news of this world appears bleak for the moment, a much brighter future awaits us all. This is the precious truth contained in the gospel of the kingdom of God. Let’s use these Fall Festivals to sharpen our vision and hope of that kingdom. Let’s also be united in our efforts to share that wonderful message of hope with others.

In the last issue of the United News Asia we mentioned that we hope to reach our goal of 10,000 Good News subscribers in the Philippines by the end of this year. Through God’s blessing and the efforts of the GN mall exhibits we have already surpassed the 10,000 mark. Thank you so much for your continued prayers in our efforts to preach the gospel and I hope you have a wonderfully inspiring Feast.

© 2007 United Church of God, AIA - Pilipinas