JEHOVAH IS AN APPRECIATIVE GOD - Conclusion of "A Merciful and Faithful High Priest"

"A Merciful and Faithful High Priest"

The letters to the seven congregations are filled with expressions that reflect Jesus' full awareness of his disciples' challenges and his genuine appreciation for their life of integrity.  (Revelation 2:1-3:22) Keep in mind that those whom Jesus addressed were anointed Christians with the hope of ruling alongside him in heaven.  In the footsteps of their Lord, they were being prepared for their lofty role of helping to administer with the greatest compassion the benefits of Christ's ransom sacrifice to ailing humankind. -Revelation 5:9, 10; 22:1-5.

Of course, Jesus' love for his anointed followers is also extended toward his loyal "other sheep,"  millions of whom now make up the prospective   "great crowd . . .out of all nations," who will survive the coming "great tribulation."  (John 10:16; Revelation 7:9, 14)  These ones are flocking to Jesus' side out of appreciation for his ransom sacrifice and for their hope of everlasting life.  How do they show their appreciation?  They do so by "rendering [God] sacred service day and night." -Revelation 7:15-17.

The worldwide report for the 2006 service year, set out on pages 27 to 30, gives clear evidence that these faithful ministers are truly rendering Jehovah "sacred service day and night."  In fact, during that one year, they along with the relatively small remaining body of anointed Christians devoted a total of 1,333, 966,199 hours to the public ministry-equivalent to well over 150,000 years!

Next time: Continue to Show Appreciation!

The Watchtower, 2007