Why We Attend the Memorial - WHY THE OTHER SHEEP ATTEND

 The other sheep attend the Memorial, not as partakers, but as observers.  In 1938, th ose with the earthly hope were the for the first time specifically invited to attend the Memoral.  The Watchtower of March 1, 1938, stated:  "It will be entirely right and proper for the [other sheep] to be present at such a meeting and observe what is done. . . .It should be and is a timeof rejoicing for them also."  Like invited guests who are happy to obeserv a wedding ceremony, the other sheep are happy to be present at the Memorial.

The other sheep too contemplate their hope. They look forward to the Memorial discourse, for much of it focuses on what Christ and his 144,000 corulers will do for faithful humans during the Thousand Year  Reign.  Under the leadership of their King Jesus Christ, those heavenly rulers will help transform the earth into a paradise and lift obedient humankind to perfection.  How thrilling it is for the millions of observers at the Memorial to imagine the future fulfillment of Bible prophecieas, such as those found at Isaiah 35:5,6; 65:21-23; and Revelation 21:3, 4.  By picturing  themselves and their loved ones in that new world, they strengthen their hope for the future and their determination never to stop serving Jehovah. - MATTHEW 24:13; GALATIANS 6:9. 

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