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The Year 2012; Our Chinese Brethren are still in celebration. Their New Years Day is on 23rd January and called the year of the water dragon

Let us keep in mind the word of our first Service in 2012, from Mica 7:7. Look out for the Lord in everything. In our decisions, in temptations, trials, cares and sorrows but especially for His return. “Serving the Lord with gladness” and the wish of the Chief Apostle that we shall all make experiences of faith and having our prayers heard were the topics in all divine services at the beginning of the year.

Serve the Lord – let us do so with gladness (Psalm 100: 2) and out of love toward the Lord as a motivating force. Thus: Serve the Lord – with gladness – out of love!

The question is justified: How can we serve the Lord?:

• By fostering fellowship in a divine sense.
• By making the Gospel and the value of fellowship visible through our attitude.

Fellowship can be fostered with quite simple means. By turning towards our neighbour, showing interest in him, having understanding, giving courage, supporting him in faith and praying for him – are this not magnificent services? A nice service is performed if we bring in our gifts in the fellowship. Making the gospel visible outwardly in word and deed – this is also a nice service. In doing so, we shall not forget to invite our fellow men to our divine services whenever occasion arises. This shows us that serving is an issue applying to us all – without exception! Thus, this is not just a topic for the ministers.

BLESSED AND HAPPY YEAR OF 2012 TO ALL