FAMILY UPDATE NEWS #18 -- APRIL, 1994. DO
"March on to victory!... Fight! Fight! Fight! And never give up till we've won the battle & won the World, which we shall by the help of God! We'll make it His, in Jesus' name!" (ML#2879:18,19.)
April, 1994, Home Services, Zurich, Switzerland.
(Required reading for JETTs on up. Selected portions may be shared with children younger than JETTs at the discretion of their teachers, parents or Shepherds.)
NEW UPCOMING "VARIETY" AUDIO TAPES
By WS Staff
Dear Family,
God bless you! We love you and are so very thankful for each of you and your dedication and faithfulness to continue to be such tremendous on-fire witnesses for Jesus! "How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"--Rom.10:15.
We are thankful that the music counsel and guidelines in the "Getting Back on Track for Jesus" GN series (GNs 575-577), and in Hope Mags 41-43, have been a blessing to you and have helped form a more united standard in our music listening. The wonderful testimonies from you teens and YAs, guidance and counsel from Mama, and lessons, testimonies and tips from our musicians all contribute to a refreshing new start in music listening and appreciation.
It has been the desire of our hearts to give you more music, and we are doing the best we can to do so in these very busy times. Although music is an important part of our culture, there are so many other important ministries the Lord has given all of us in our reaching out to others with the commission to "go into all the World and preach the Gospel to every creature."--Mk.16:15. Thanks so much for your continued prayers for our WS Studios who are very busy doing their best to finish up a multitude of audio and video projects for the Family, friends and GP. More music is on the way, and our Studios are doing all they can to produce for the needy World and for our music-loving Family!
It has been a concern that some of our Family have developed a habit of resorting to System music and experimenting with radio listening, and delving into music that was not edifying, and which ultimately became a source of division, discontentment and confusion in many of our Homes. It has been inspiring to read the sincere confessions and honest accounts of those who have been delivered from the snares of System music.
Upon reading about and understanding your burden and desire for more variety in music, an idea has been considered extensively to introduce to the Family good music from other sources--namely other Christians. After hearing a wide variety of opinions both for and against the idea, and since music is a very subjective topic, and opinions, reactions, tastes and preferences vary greatly from person to person, Home to Home and even country to country, Mama asked a WS Unit to desperately pray and ask the Lord to reveal His Will and to specifically speak concerning the distribution of this new music to the Family.
(From Mama to WS Teamwork:) Dear Ones, what would you think about asking your Home if they would like to unitedly pray and ask the Lord whether or not we should open the door to listen to selected contemporary Christian music? Will it hurt the Family or will it help them? There are pros, but there are also cons, so we would like to hear what the Lord has to say to us about it.
Before you pray, it should be stressed that no matter what personal opinions your Home members may have, they should try to forget them and just ask the Lord to make them open channels that His Words can flow through, so that what they get will not be tainted or influenced in any way by their own ideas. This is something you will have to desperately pray for beforehand, that the Lord will come through, and that you will yield any of your own opinions to the Lord and present to Him a blank slate so that He can write on it what He wills. (End of comments from Mama.)
Prayer
(WS Shepherdess prays:) Thank You, Lord! Mama told us that it should be stressed that no matter what opinion we have, we should try to forget it, and cast our ideas aside and just ask You to help us to have an open channel with You. We pray Your Words can flow through us and that we can get what we need from You without it being influenced or tainted in any way by our own thoughts. So we claim the verse, "Your thoughts are not our thoughts, neither are Your ways our ways. For as the Heavens are high above the Earth, so are Your thoughts higher than our thoughts and Your ways than our ways."
Help us to lay aside our thoughts, our opinions, our personal feelings, and get them out of the way. We desperately pray that You will come through, that we will yield any of our opinions to You, and that You will give us a blank slate and a blank sheet of paper right now, so You can write on it what You will. Not our will but Thy Will be done!
Lord, You said, "Where two or three are gathered together in Your Name, You are in our midst," and "If we ask anything in Your Name, You will give it." And, "If we abide in You and Your Word abides in us, we shall ask what we will and it shall be done unto us." We come before You, Jesus, and we ask these questions: Should we open the door to some selected contemporary Christian System music? Will such music hurt or help the Family? We ask You to answer these questions for us because we don't know. Help us now, as we hear from You.
Prophecies
(Following are the prophecies that were received:)
Every good and perfect gift cometh down from Above, from the Father of Lights, with Whom there is no variableness nor shadow of turning. Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also must I bring. There shall be one Shepherd and one fold. In My Father's House there are many mansions. The Words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit and they are Life. Search the Scriptures to see if these things be so.
* * *
I have said unto you before, "The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth more labourers into the harvest." From whence can come these labourers? From your own folds, but also from other folds. Other Christians can help you to gather the harvest, for time is short and labourers are few and there is so much to be done. But in this way it can be done and it can lighten your load and make your job easier. For thus have I provided labourers to reach many people and help many people. Try the spirits, whether they be of Me. For there are many false Christs which have gone out into the World. Therefore, prayerfully and with great wisdom try the spirits and test them to be sure they are of Me.
* * *
My Word which goeth out of My mouth shall accomplish the purpose wherein I have sent it. For on the Master's shelf are many vessels, some to honour and some to dishonour. Consider the nourishment that I have set before you. Are there not many facets and portions to your table? Strong meat is for them who need My strength, and I have provided also fruit, grain and bread for the needs of Man. But the Word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than a two-edged sword, piercing even unto the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and is a discerner of the thoughts and the intents of the heart. As with many things in life, ye must choose the good and eschew the evil.
Have not I said that there are many sheep that are not of this fold? For have I not said there are many concentric circles of discipleship? Ye are blessed to live ever so close to the Master, to follow closely, to know much Truth and to know a life of dedication, a life of suffering, a life of persecution. For ye are My called-out ones who lead My Christian Army into battle and are highly blessed on all counts.
Yet I have those who, though they may be weak, are sincere. Their love for Me is genuine. Their relationship may be shallow, but their motives and their desires are genuine. They can be co-workers with you in this great battle. Ye can rejoice in melodies which I have given them. Ye can sing a song of joy together. Have I not said, "Go to the churches?" Are not these songs yet a sample of their love and their dedication and their desire to love Me? Is this not an opportunity for you to show your tolerance and your mercy, patience, acceptance and love of your fellow labourers in Me?
In the multitude of counsellors there is safety. Choose the good and eschew the evil. In the multitude of counsellors, choose the diet which you would give unto your young people. For I know that there are dangers, there are stumbling blocks and there are pitfalls, but I shall lead you through these, that ye may pick the good fruit from the tree; that ye may enjoy and fill your need; that it shall satisfy you; that it might be a source of joy and comfort and encouragement and inspiration.
Fear not, but look to Me and I will give you wisdom in your choice. I will give you wisdom in your timing. For I know the need and it is My desire to fill it, and I shall pull from many sources to fill this need. I shall give you variety in many ways--variety of theme, melody and artists.
For many of these are co-labourers which ye know not, but ye shall know them one day. Ye shall rejoice together with them in the Heavenly City and ye shall both receive the reward which I have prepared for you, ye My special ones, who follow ever so closely, and even those who are weak, those who are immature, those who cannot pay the price of giving all. Yet they have a place and they shall be rewarded. They are not to be cast off or shunned, nor despised or looked down upon. For there are those, not all, but there are those who are sincere and dedicated, and long to serve Me, and are doing what they can to promote My Message.
It is yet another example of concentric circles of discipleship, of other sheep. This is another example wherein in these Last Days ye reach out your hands to anti-Antichrists, and work together and bond together, wherein in times past ye have not. Fear not, but look to Me and I will lead and guide you. I will show you the way that this can be profitable and a blessing, and ye can avoid the dangers and the pitfalls, and it can be a source of joy and not of cursing.
* * *
Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees! I have given you wisdom and discernment to know what is good and what is not of Me. And I shall supply all your need according to My riches in glory. The gifts and callings of God are without repentance, and I bestow My gifts on whom I will.
* * *
In the Last Days, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh. Every good gift cometh down from Above, from the Father of Lights. Therefore, discern ye the gifts; for in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
* * *
No good thing will I withhold from them that walk uprightly, and as ye look to Me and seek Me, I will lead and guide you in the way that ye should go.
Verses and Visions
"Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it."--Pro.3:27.
* * *
"A false balance is an abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is His delight."--Pro.11:1.
* * *
"I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh."--Acts 2:17a.
* * *
"What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common."--Acts 10:15b.
* * *
I got the verse for these Christian musicians: "Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost."--1Cor.12:3. Of course, there are some Christians that say "Jesus is Lord" and they don't have the Spirit of God, but the application was that these people whose music we have auditioned and gotten a good witness on, those who are really glorifying the Lord and singing about the Lord, they do so by the Spirit of God.
* * *
"Choose the good and eschew the evil."--1Pet.3:11. (Several people received this verse.)
* * *
I had a vision of a multi-faceted crystal ball, similar to what you see in discos hanging from the ceiling. All the different facets were scintillating and reflecting light as it turned. The Lord shines His light on different facets and we're all a part of it, and other Christian musicians can shine with His Light too.
* * *
"Sing unto the Lord a new song" and "withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to give it."--Isa.42:10a; Pro.3:27.
* * *
"Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of Man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."--1Cor.2:9. So there are things we haven't heard yet, that He has prepared for us!
* * *
I got that in the early days of the Family we didn't have that many songs, so we took System songs such as "Love Is But a Song We Sing" and Bob Dylan's "I Shall Be Released" and we incorporated Salvation message lyrics into them. Several popular folk songs of the late '60s were taken and modified for Family use.
* * *
I got the verse, "For if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought. But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it."--Acts 5:38,39. The inspired songs will live on and the uninspired songs will fall by the wayside!
[End of prophecies.]
Comments from Mama Regarding the Prophecies
(Mama:) Before your prayer and prophecy, I had been praying that the Lord would come through clearly and give us a definite answer regarding this music. I was sort of trying to second guess the Lord and see if I could figure out what He was going to tell us, and I thought, "Well, on one hand He could very well say, `A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump'--1Cor.5:6b. But on the other hand," I surmised, "He might come through with verses like `Every good and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning' (Jam.1:17a), and `other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring.'"--Jn.10:16a. And so I said to the Lord, "Lord, I don't know what You're going to say, but I have a feeling You're going to go in the direction of approving this music."
When I received the prophecies and verses, and started listening to them, lo and behold, the first two verses that were given were the same verses that I had thought the Lord might give us! I was so encouraged with the outcome!
I feel that these other Christian musicians have their place. Music is a ministry that the Lord has given them, and they've been able to reach many young people with the Lord's Message and a real witness. I don't have the feeling that these songs are any threat to us. The other Christians are simply doing what they have been called to, just like we're doing what we have been called to do. Their ministry is just as important in their realm as ours is in our realm, and the Lord has to have both.
Regarding the use of other Christians' music within the Family, the Lord said it would have to be handled wisely, and to "choose the good and eschew the evil," which does not only mean at the compilation stage, but it also means that when the Family gets this music, they will need to have the proper balance, and the right attitude, and not go overboard with it. (End of comments from Mama.)
More on Other Christian Music
By WS Staff
It was encouraging to hear the Lord indicating that the use of some modern music written by other Christians can have its place in our Family. However, unlike the time-tested and faith-building, founded-on-the-Word classical hymns and Gospel songs that we have sung for years, a lot of songs on the albums of the modern Christian singers are somewhat off the track or very worldly in style and message, or lack of message. Therefore, a lot of prayer, counsel, auditioning, deciphering and discerning must go into the selecting of the songs on the Variety tapes.
Our Family-written songs are outstanding, powerful, clear and Spirit-filled, and contain the Words of David that have been tremendously effective in drawing many of us to the Lord, and have echoed around the World in helping to win millions to Jesus. "By their fruits ye shall know them," and our Family music is still the best, and nothing can ever take its place. Praise the Lord! And, as already mentioned, our WS studios are busy fulltime in the music ministry and are producing all they can to feed His sheep and inspire all of you, our precious Family. Our WS musicians are dedicated and committed masters of their trade and have a big job to do in piping the Lord's music to us and the World!--Please keep them in your prayers!
Positive Points to Prayerfully Ponder
1. To help answer the heartcry for more music and variety in music, which has been a burden on our hearts as well, some of our WS musicians have been auditioning music from other Christian musicians. In order to maintain a united standard at an approved level, our WS musicians will be compiling such songs for you, our dear Family. We have found that not every song written by these other Christian musicians is a "hit." In fact, our auditioners had to wade through and weed out a lot of chaff in order to find the songs best suited for the Family. These compilations contain what we consider to be the best songs from a number of different albums with a wide variety of musical styles. We hope everyone will find something amongst this music which appeals to their musical tastes and preferences.
We do not want to encourage indiscriminate listening to any Christian music that may be available in countries around the World, since many Christian entertainers have very differing doctrines and slants on the Scriptures--some of which are contrary to our basic views and teachings.
As an example of indiscriminate listening, some years back, it was published in a GN that Grandpa liked the song "Through the Years" by Kenny Rogers (a popular country singer). This was interpreted by some to mean that everything that Kenny Rogers had ever sung or recorded was therefore approved listening! This, of course, is not the case, and as the Lord pointed out in the prophecies, we need to "choose the good and eschew the evil." We don't want to go to the extreme and open the door to just any Christian music and leave ourselves open to false doctrines and questionable lyrics that could cause us harm or be an inroad for the Enemy. Please pray for those who are in the process of selecting songs for the compilation of this variety music, which, DV, will be available very soon!
2. Moderation should also be emphasised in listening to the new tapes. "A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight"--Pro.11:1. As Mama pointed out, it's not only a responsibility for those involved in the compiling stages of this music, but it's also a responsibility on you, the Family, to maintain a balanced diet in your music listening. We have a lot of good Family music already available and more is coming soon, so this new Christian music should not become the main staple in your music-listening diet.
3. For our children, Family music Tapes should be the main music listened to, and, of course, the main songs performed. Though the teens who often care for the children may like to listen to these variety tapes, we suggest these tapes not become a major part of the music diet of our children, who need their music diet to be based on a good foundation of songs from the Words of David.
4. Consideration should also be encouraged in the Homes when listening to these new tapes. For example, it would not be appropriate for this music to be blaring away in the nursery when babies or toddlers are sleeping, or while schooling or Word time is taking place. It would, of course, be out of place to be playing these songs in a place where others are trying to get quiet time or are resting.
5. These compilations are DO, for disciples only, and under no circumstances should they be sold. We also request that you do not boast about or advertise the use of such music by non-Family artists. We offer this music to you, our dear Family missionaries, free of charge, in order to supply you with musical variety, musical appreciation for the styles used by other Christians and solely for non-profit, inspirational and educational purposes.
We love you and pray for each one of you as we serve the Lord together in these Last Days. It's a privilege and blessing to have such a wonderful and dedicated Family working fulltime for the Lord. We pray this new music will be a blessing and an inspiration to you, and that you will have fun enjoying it.
Lots of love and prayers,
Your WS Family
NEW MOVIE RATINGS:
Note about ratings: System movie ratings vary from country to country. Where local System ratings indicate an older viewing audience than this listing, please follow the local ratings.
For OCs & Up
KING OF THE WIND
Richard Harris, Glenda Jackson
Historical fiction about the Godolphin Arabian, the first Arabian horse exported to England in the 1700s. The story follows the adventures of a mute Berber boy from Tunisia to Europe. Lessons on love, dedication & perseverance, with a happy ending. A bit slow moving for some. (1989)
For JETTs & Up
DAVE
Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver
Political comedy about an ordinary guy who doubles for the U.S. president & the surprising developments that follow. Movie features cameos by celebrities, real reporters, & actual U.S. senators. Lessons on sincerity, fighting for a righteous cause & the cost of leadership. (1993)
WIND
Matthew Modine, Cliff Robertson
Fictionalised account of America's Cup yacht races featuring the American & Australian teams. Lessons on stick-to-it-iveness, teamwork & sportsmanship. Pro-American slant throughout the movie. Those not familiar with sailing terms will need some pre-showtime explanation. (This can be found in the movie itself, during previewing: An Australian sportscaster narrates some of the action, & he also uses computer simulations to explain sailing terms & tactics.) Some bad language & a few tense scenes should be fast-forwarded for younger audiences. (1992)
For Teens & Up
ARTICLE 99
Ray Liotta, Kiefer Sutherland
Expos of U.S. Veterans Administration hospital abuse. Realistic, if somewhat disheartening scenario. Lessons on fighting System bureaucracy & standing up for your convictions despite retribution. Some violence & realistic medical procedures. (1992)
LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN, A
Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna
Entertaining comedy about the girls' baseball league that sprang up when most male ballplayers were off fighting in WW2. Lessons on comparing, commitment & overcoming personal weaknesses. Some foolishness & lots of foul language, especially in the beginning. (1992)
SOMMERSBY
Richard Gere, Jodie Foster
Thought-provoking drama set in the economically-ruined South shortly after the end of the U.S. Civil War. Title character returns to his home after six years' imprisonment. Lessons on repentance, conviction & self-sacrifice. Beware of unsavoury portrayal of one "Christian" character. Lots to pow-wow. (1993)
STRANGER AMONG US, A
Melanie Griffith, Eric Thal
A tough New York City policewoman temporarily lives in Brooklyn's community of Hasidic Jews in order to find out who murdered one of them. Interesting & educational, though perhaps rosy, portrayal of a "dropped-out" religious sect which is considered by some to be a "cult." Lessons on standing up for your convictions & not being conformed to this World. Watch out for some violent scenes. (1992)
STRICTLY BALLROOM
Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice
Spirited, allegorical story about a young, competitive ballroom dancer in Australia who outrages the ballroom "establishment" by insisting on dancing his own innovative steps. The movie is done in an exaggerated, tongue-in-cheek style that takes getting used to. Good parallels of the Family taking on the System. (1992)
For Adults & YAs
ALIVE!
Ethan Hawke, Vincent Spano
True story of an Argentine rugby team's fight for survival when their plane crashes in a remote area of the Andes Mountains. This high-intensity movie may not be for some, as crash & other scenes are quite graphic. Clips of the actual survivors appear at end. Lots to pow-wow. (1993)
--------------------------------
SOUTH AMERICA
* GREAT NEWS FLASH FROM ARGENTINA! The last 100 Family Members received permission to leave Argentina! (After the Dec. 13th verdict, some Family Members were able to leave the country immediately, but these 100 were required to remain while the case was being resolved.) This is an outstanding miracle, as the final papers needed to be signed by Marquevich himself! The Argentine Family testifies: "What a victory of the Lord's Love, mercy & power!--The fulfilment of all that He promised us! Like He told Dad when things looked darkest, `Wait until you see the end!' Well, we're seeing it! You can't imagine how much all of us are rejoicing for this final victory! He's so good to us & always there to hear & answer our prayers! PTL!"
* JUDGEMENTS FALL ON TV STATION. TELEFE, a major Buenos Aires TV station which aired the "dance videos" & led the September smear campaign against the Family, had a fire which resulted in millions of dollars of damage. "It is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you.... In flaming fire taking vengeance on them" (2Th.1:6,8).
* ARGENTINE JUDGES HONOUR RUIZ NUEZ: Journalist Hector Ruiz Nuez, who wrote articles in our defence during the persecution, recently attended a party with about 30 judges.--And once again, the Family was the main topic of discussion! Apparently this gathering was the judges' way of giving Ruiz Nuez due recognition for having been right about our case from the very beginning. He later said that this was the first time in his career as an investigative journalist that he had been honoured in such a way.
* PERU "CONSIDER THE POOR" MINISTRY: When whole sections of the port area of Lima, Peru, were virtually destroyed during recent flooding, the Catholic Church & government appealed to organisations throughout the country for help. The Family offered their services, & a team was soon busy helping to distribute food & clothing at the relief shelter. They also sang for the flood victims, & prayed with many of them to receive the Lord.
* NUNS APPRECIATE OUR TOOLS & FIGHTING SPIRIT. From the Family in Chile: "While on a road trip, we visited a Catholic school which is run by nuns. We talked to the Mother Superior, & offered her our material. She invited us back the next day so that we could talk with another nun. When we returned, the first thing they asked was if we were part of the Family. When we said yes, they commended us for our honesty & conviction in the face of religious persecution. They took our whole collection of 10 children's videos, plus cassettes, & asked for more. `Keep up the good work!' they encouraged us."
* "I WILL BLESS THEM THAT BLESS THEE" (Gen.12:3). From the Brazilian Family: "A year ago a team visited a sweet couple who sometimes put us up in a relative's extra apartment, right next to their own. Their only child had died, & they wanted another very badly. The team prayed with them for a baby, & received the story about the Shunammite couple who helped Elisha (2Ki.4:8-17). Just recently, another team visited this couple & learned that they have a one-month-old son! It was a marvellous testimony to them of the power of prayer, & of the Lord's rewards to those who help His Work."
EUROPE
* OPEN-DOOR POLICY BEARS GOOD FRUIT. Since the Polish School Home moved into their new house, their openness has helped them win many new friends, & turned a flood of negative publicity into a wave of favourable media coverage which is reaching the whole country!
Many neighbours are now coming for Bible & DF classes, & some have even asked how they can join the Family! Groups of as many as 20-30 students have come from a nearby dormitory. Soldiers from a local army camp come for classes. The parents of many of our Nationals have also visited, & were delighted.
The Home organised one Christmas party especially for their supporters, & another for their neighbours. In all, over 150 people attended.
Radio & television stations have visited for interviews, & their neighbours have staunchly defended them to reporters. One reporter who was particularly antagonistic when she arrived, changed her point of view completely after hearing good reports from neighbours. As a result, she wrote a positive article!
* INSPECTOR RECOGNISES VALUE OF FAMILY'S HOME SCHOOLING. "You, with your home school & way of life, have found the answers to many of the problems that we are struggling with in the public school system."--So said a school inspector who was sent to investigate the home schooling of the Family in Sweden. He also said that he was pleased to see we teach Christian faith & values to our children. The public school system, in his opinion, is being weakened by being so "objective." At the end of his visit he thanked the Home for giving him "valuable new ideas & thoughts to take back to the public school system."
* UPDATE ON FAMILY'S EFFORTS TO GET FOOD AID TO NEEDY RUSSIANS. A Family team, headed by Faithy & Peter, had a hand in providing another 600 tons of humanitarian food aid to the destitute people of the former Soviet Union. In helping to organise this relief project, the Family worked with Russian & American aid agencies in both governmental & private sectors, & made many new friends.
At one point, when they needed to find sponsors to pay the $100,000 shipping costs involved in getting the 29-car train to its destination, the Lord raised up a local aid agency to foot the bill.
* SIGN OF THE TIMES: HUNGARY MOVES TO RESTRICT RELIGION. Last November, the Hungarian parliament passed legislation that targets churches which are not receiving government support, by requiring them to pay income tax. More legislation has been proposed that would allow churches to register only if they have a minimum of 10,000 members or were established at least one hundred years ago. The Jehovah's Witnesses, who were declared a "destructive cult" last year, have started a court case to try to get that judgement reversed.
The government also seems bent on regaining control of the Hungarian media. In one instance, they fired 129 "liberals" from the state-operated radio.
NORTH AMERICA
* MORE PROGRAMS ON THE JIM NICHOLLS SHOW: A team of Family YAs did four more shows. The first two mostly consisted of music. One show's musical highpoint was a Memory Book medley, which the YAs had put together. After they explained our Scripture-based music, then Jim put in a plug for the whole Songs of Life Tape collection.
On the third show, Jim broadcast our Family Outreach Video. In this & each of the other shows, Jim humorously reminded the audience that we are accused of being a "dangerous & destructive cult." He emphasised the contrast between the wholesome, inspired sample of our teens and this ridiculous accusation, & chided the churches for their self-righteousness.
On the fourth & final show of the series, two YAs spoke about their lives in the Family & their reaction to the persecution in Argentina. They also brought out a good point about socialisation, making a well-rounded show & leaving the viewing audience with a very good impression of the Family--just beautiful!
* FAMILY HELPS AT FOOD DEPOSITORY. Family teens in the Northeastern U.S. have volunteered their services several times each month to help prepare food for the hungry at a large Food Bank. The first night, they worked alongside other Christian groups from the city, one of which has also been targeted by many of the same anti-religious organisations which attack us, so they had good fellowship & lots to talk about. The man in charge of the operation told the teens he was particularly happy that they had come, as the work pace doubled as soon as our teens pitched in!
PACIFIC
* OUTREACH VIDEO WINS SUPPORTERS. From the Japanese Family: "We have recently begun showing the Family Outreach Video to each of our new provisioning contacts.
"When we met the branch manager of one manufacturing company, we only had time to show him 10 minutes of the Family Outreach Video & give him a tract. A week later, he drove all the way to our Home to personally take measurements for accordion doors which he offered to have custom made for us.
"We also showed the entire Family Outreach Video to the top manager of a large clothing store. This company has been helping us for some time, but this was the first time that we met the manager. He was very receptive to our message, helped with a donation of goods, & encouraged us to contact him when we need his help again."
ASIA
* "GREAT WAS THE COMPANY OF THEM THAT PUBLISHED THE WORD"--Psa.68:11. R.K. Karanjia, a newspaper editor & long-time friend of the Family in India published the full Letter "The Lover of All Lovers!" (ML#1954), complete with a Salvation prayer, in the March 26th edition of his paper. (Circulation: three million, in three languages.) The article, which appeared in the "Hotline to God" section of the paper, was headlined "An Easter-eve Tribute to Jesus Christ," & closed with "Courtesy of The Family."
A sequel called "The Truth about the First Easter," appeared in the next week's edition. Following the Salvation invitation in this second article, our friend added, "Having gone through the experience, your Editor bears witness to this Truth & of Jesus' miraculous grace & divine power."--Quite a testimony, coming from one of India's most famous & respected journalists, who was raised in an Eastern religion!
* "THE PEOPLE WHO SAT IN DARKNESS SAW A GREAT LIGHT" (Mat.4:16). From Prem & Aaron, India: "For the past six months or more, we have been visiting the adolescent section of India's largest top-security prison. We conduct weekly programs for the nearly 400 teenage inmates serving time for crimes ranging from theft to murder. After praying about how we could penetrate these boys' tough facades, the Lord showed us that Word-based skits would be the answer. Our skits cover themes such as communication, friendship, unity, resolving conflicts, overcoming discouragement, & cleanliness. We are not allowed to preach openly, but the boys have all now gotten the point that we're Christians. Although it's been a slow process, seeing lives changed through this `Consider the Poor' ministry is touching & heart-warming.
"One of the inmates, a Muslim boy, said, `You people from the Family talk so nicely with us. If everyone from the outside World would treat us like you do, we would gladly lay down our lives for them.'
"Another boy said, `Ever since the Family started visiting us, the fights here have decreased.'
"Yet another said, `Since you guys started coming, we have stopped swearing & cussing.'
"The Lord's love & concern for the poor, lonely & lost has so changed many of these boys that they will never be the same again! PTL!"
* MIRACLES OF SUPPLY: One Home in India felt that everyone needed a little "vacation" break from their busy routine, so they claimed it in prayer & their provisioner went to work. "This was the first time I tried to provision food, accommodation, & transport for 50 people, & it really got me praying!" reports Abigail. "The owner of the first hotel I called agreed to sponsor three dinners. The biggest victory, though, came when the owner of a beautiful resort graciously agreed to put up our whole Home for three days, free of charge." This was a tremendous encouragement to all & helped this Home appreciate just how good the Lord wants to be to us. We're God's pets!
* "BEFORE THEY CALL, I WILL ANSWER" (Isa.65:24). From the DF Home, Thailand: "Recently we had prayer for increased monthly support, & the Lord answered wonderfully!
"One night we witnessed to a precious lady, who received the Lord with her entire family. Then she said, `You know, you need someone to help you every month. Would you mind if I began giving to your Work?'
"Another man whom we planned to ask for regular support also offered before we had a chance to ask. `You people need to get organised,' he said. `You need to get people to help you each month!'--Then he made a monthly pledge & said he hopes to increase the amount when he can.
"Yet another couple we had planned to ask for regular support responded before we could say a word. `We want to give you this every month,' the wife said, handing us an envelope with a generous donation. `We hope it will be enough!'"
* OUR MUSIC HAS HEALING POWER! From Paul, Thailand: "While visiting my family in Europe, I witnessed to a group of university students, & retold the story of crippled Tommy. One of the students made a special point of thanking me for that story. Then she told me how her own life was changed forever by some unknown `Tommy.'
"Years ago, she explained, she had a malignant tumour in one of her legs, & was sent to Vienna for an operation. One day the Family Tape `On Love We'll Sail' appeared on her bedside table. She understands very little English, so she didn't even know what the songs were about. But as she listened to that Tape as she lay there in the hospital, she felt the Spirit of the Lord come down on her. Beyond anyone's expectations, she was wonderfully healed from the cancer & almost certain death. There was no jacket with the Tape, & with no address she had no way of contacting us for more information.
"Five years later, she still remembered Maria's invitation at the end of the Tape, & asked me to translate it for her. She & her sister were in tears by the time I finished, & both were wonderfully saved! Finally she was able to understand what that beautiful voice was saying. I gave her some more Tapes & we promised to stay in touch."
ANSWERED PRAYER
Good news concerning baby Brunella of YAs Miguel & Cherish in Japan: As was explained in earlier prayer requests, due to Brunella being very premature & receiving oxygen in an incubator for such a long time, the doctors diagnosed there was a chance that her eyes & brain might have been damaged. During Brunella's recent visit to the hospital, where the doctors have been checking her regularly, the eye doctor said her eyesight is perfect! The brain specialist said there's absolutely no problem with her brain! And the therapist said that she's an average child as far as her motor development, & she should start walking soon! PTL! What a wonderful answer to prayer! TYJ!
PRAYER REQUESTS
CRITICAL OR LIFE-&-DEATH SITUATIONS: (For age 14 & over.)
1. For Faith of Philip (formerly Dora & Habakkuk 2:4), who has a lump which appears to be breast cancer; that the Lord will honour Faith's personal decision to take a stand of faith & heal her, & that He will continue to strengthen & encourage Faith & those around her during this trying time.
DAD & MAMA:
2. For the health, safety & security of Dad, Mama, & their staff.
WORLDWIDE:
3. For continued progress in every Home as we all get back on track & go on for Jesus.
4. For new avenues of supply so that our Homes will have more time to devote to the training of our young people, & to pioneer witnessing projects.
COURT CASES:
5. Pearl's case:
>> For our expert witnesses, who are now on the witness stand, whose testimonies will be crucial to the case.
>> For the QC who is preparing our written arguments, our other lawyers & legal team.
>> That the judge will be satisfied that Sammy should be allowed to remain with his mommy in the Family.
>> That the judge will accept that Pearl is genuinely willing to be reconciled with her mother, despite the hardship & trauma the mother has caused Pearl & Sammy by pursuing this case to such lengths.
>> For ample funds to pay for the best possible legal representation & the expenses of expert witnesses.
6. Melbourne case:
>> For the judge to rule that our lawyers may have access to certain H&CS (formerly CSV) documents which are crucial to our case.
>> For our lawyers & Family Members involved in the case.
7. French court case: That the judge investigating the criminal case will close the case altogether.
8. Barcelona case: For the appeal which the prosecutor has filed with the Supreme Court in Madrid to be rejected; for our lawyers' wisdom in countering this appeal.
9. Lawsuits in Argentina against those who falsified evidence, & Baamonde & others who slandered us in the media: that the cases made by our lawyers will be successful, & that the court will award damages to the Family.
SOUTH AMERICA:
10. For complete recovery of those injured in the Colombia traffic accident.
11. For an official investigation in one country to come to a speedy conclusion, & that it will result in better understanding between the government & our Family there.
EUROPE:
12. For the social services investigation of the Family in one country to come to a close; that it will result in yet another vindication of the Family, & win new friends & supporters.
13. For JETT David (of Dawn), who is recovering from a very serious flu & experiences severe head pains daily.
NORTH AMERICA:
14. For the team witnessing at a large fair in Mexico, where they will have a booth.
15. For our contact with academics, professionals, lawyers & others who have been helping & advising us.
16. For the widespread distribution of a very favourable book on the Family, written by top experts in the field, which is now going to press.
ASIA:
17. For Muslim ministries which are being pioneered in several Eastern countries.
18. For "Consider the Poor" ministries which are opening new doors & bearing wonderful fruit.
Copyright (c) 1998 by The Family