EPUB Ebooks: Free ebook sample of "Theocratic Gems" by Judy Drysdale

SOMETHING TO CHEER YOU UP

You feeling kind of low? You say you were out witnessing in your heavy winter suit and it suddenly got warmer, and you were all sweaty and itchy? You say that when you got to the first door and rang the bell that it kept ringing because it was stuck? That it kept ringing and ringing until you heard a baby crying and a woman came to the door all dripping wet, wrapped in a bath towel and awfully mad? So, did you calmly go ahead and try to present your sermon, and then forgot the last Scripture? You finally reach in your bag to present your literature and discover that you sat your bag down in a puddle and the books, magazines and booklets have soaked up the muddy water, but you smile anyway and reach in your pocket for a handbill, then you remember you are still carrying last weeks? Has it got you a little worried? You say you have been trying to preach

the Good News to a man who thinks you have insulted his wife, and he is a 250 pound

Indian wrestler, who works as a bouncer at the local casino?

Did he kick your book bag over the fence and tell you if you disturbed him again,

he will break you in half?

Then he slams the door in your face and you go to walk away and find that your new coat is stuck in the door, so you pull it until a piece tears off and you fall flat on you face?

Now you say that a dog is trying to tear the seat off your pants and the wind is blowing your handbills all over the place and a gang of children have gathered around to laugh and throw stones at you, and the police are coming and you forgot your "Defending" booklet and left it at home? Is this what makes you so down-hearted?

You say that you have to be at the meeting in fifteen minutes but the car won't start,

your shoelace just broke and the laundry didn't come, so you haven't a shirt to wear?

Then you go to the Hall late and hear the chairman announce that you have a part on the program

and you forgot to prepare it?

Then you sit down and discover that

you have the wrong book?

You are next, so you turn to the person beside

you to borrow his copy and it is the Circuit Overseer, who just stopped in to see how things are going?

A cold nervous chill comes over you and

you hear your name called. You reach up to straighten your tie

and feel something wet on your suit?

Yes, your pen has been leaking. Does this all have you feeling discouraged? You say that your brother believes in evolution, your sister is going to marry a Buddhist, and your mother just subscribed to "Our Sunday Visitor" with the only dollar you had saved for your Watchtower renewal, and your father is trying levitation and clairvoyance on you? You haven't got troubles.

Think of the mess that you would be in if you weren't one of Jehovah's Witnesses!!!

THE TRINITY, A MYSTERY

Those who teach the doctrine of the Trinity

claim that it is a mystery. They claim that the Father is God, the Son is God and the Holy spirit is also God. How they can be three separate persons and yet not be three persons is something they cannot explain, yet they insist that any who want

to be saved must accept by faith because this is a mystery beyond our comprehension.

Could this be the reason they label it a mystery? Luke 1:36 says that Mary's cousin Elizabeth has conceived a son, John, six months before Jesus. This makes John and Jesus second cousins and John six months older than Jesus.

Luke 3: 23 says that Jesus was thirty years old when he was baptized by John...and here is where the mystery begins.

The trinity teachers claim that Jesus is God.This immediately makes John God's second cousin and makes

John six months older than...God! So man was here on earthsix thousand years before God was born.

This is ridiculous, but it gets more confusing when you read Luke 3:21, 23.

John had the unspeakable privilege of baptizing his creator, who was also his second cousin but the incredible thing is that John was six months old before his creator was even born.

The trinity advocates say that the Holy Spirit is also God. So now, get this!

While John is standing there, in the water, he sees God comes down

in the form of a dove and sit on top of his own head! And this is not all. He gets a good look at God. God is now either a bird sitting on top of what looks like a manor is it the other way around?

And then, he discovers that this God-Bird-Man is also a ventriloquist!

While he stands there in disbelief, God tells a deliberate lie to the people who are watching.

Obviously he doesn't want the people to know that he is really God, so he throws his voice to make

it appear like someone in heaven is speaking and saying,

"This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased."

Isn't it amazing? No wonder they call it a mystery and let it go at that!

Before me no god was formed,

nor shall there be any after me.

Isaiah 43:10

IF JESUS CAME TO YOUR HOUSE

If Jesus came to your house, to spend a day or two,

If he came unexpectedly, I wonder what you would do.

I know you would give your nicest room to such an honoured guest

And all the food that you would serve would be the very best.

And you would keep assuring him you are glad to have his there,

And serving him in your own home is joy beyond compare.

But when you saw him coming, would you meet him at the door?

With outstretched arms in welcome, to your heavenly visitor?

Or would you need to change your clothes before you let him in?

Or hide some worldly magazines and put Bibles where they had been?

Would you turn off the radio and hope he had not heard?

And would you wish you had not said that last, loud nasty word?

Would you hide your Rock and Roll Albums and put the songbook out?

Could you let Jesus walk right in? Or would you rush about?

And I wonder...If the saviour spent a day or two with you?

Would you go on doing the things you always do?

Would you keep right on saying the things you always say?

And would your life continue as it does from day to day?

Would you sing the songs you always sing and read the books your read?

And let him know the things on which your mind and heart do feed?

Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you planned to go?

Or would you, maybe change your plans for just a day or so?

Would you be glad to have him meet your very closest friends?Or hope that they would stay away until his visit ends?

Would you be glad to have him stay forever on and on,

Or would you sigh with great relief when he at last was gone?

It might be interesting to know the things that you would do?

If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you?

FOUR BROTHERS

I would like to introduce you to four brothers in the congregation. Brother Somebody, Brother Everybody, Brother Anybody and Brother Nobody.

All four brothers are very different from the rest of the congregation, it is too bad, but that is the way it is, Really, It is a shame that it is that way.

Here are some of the problems these brothers have:

Everybody failed to take advantage of the weekend time he had to go in the service.

He was always staying home from service on Sunday because he had some company or sometimes just because he had something else to do.

Now, as for Anybody, He wanted to go in service but he didn't because he was afraid

Somebody would not be there to work with him.

So do you know who went out?

Nobody

As it turns out, Nobody was the only active one in the group.

It was Nobody that always supported the meetings for service.

It was Nobody that always showed up to clean the Kingdom Hall.

It was Nobody that always made return visits on literature he place.

And why?

Because Nobody kept a house to house record.

One time at a meeting, the Theocratic School

Overseer needed a brother to give one of the talks on the school program,

Everybody thought Somebody would do it so he didn't offer to do it.

Somebody thought certainly Anybody could do it, so he didn't offer. Anybody thought Somebodywould do it. Do you know who offered to accept the assignment? That's right...Nobody.

There was an interested person that came to the meeting one Sunday.Everybody thought Somebody should

approach the new one and offer to study with them. Anybody could have done it. But, again guess who did it?...

Nobody.

Goals

To get to the meeting ahead of time

And at the book counter to wait in line

To be present and comment at every meeting

To welcome strangers with a greeting

To visit a sick one and encourage

To avoid wrong speech that will discourage

To strive to all the fruits display

To not neglect the need to pray

To help clean the Kingdom Hall

To cheer someone with a telephone call.

To place a book with the use of a scripture

To teach my child with the use of pictures

To come to the aid of those who lack

To read the magazines from front to back

To correctly fill out subscription blanks

To welcome the speaker and tell him thanks

To greet one another with a smile

To work on that great magazine pile

To put an end to a malicious story

To seek first the Kingdom and not to worry.

To answer mildly when someone mocks

To not forget the contribution box

To keep my Bible clean and neat

To occasionally take a front row seat

To really rehearse my student talk

To watch how we speak and how we walk

To forgive and forget the fault of a brother

To prove that we're Christians who love one another

To work house to house with the Circuit Overseer

To get the "seven times" prophesy clear.

To prepare my assignment well in advance

To show a quiet and mild spirit, the truth to enhance

To share an experience I had in the field

To study and build up a strong faith as a shield

To be at the Circuit Assembly each session

To strive to make true peace my possession

To speak consolingly to all those depressed

To actually apply what the Watchtower stressed

To offer transport to a brother without

To find out what our youth is about.

To use an illustration to make a point clearTo speak up loudly so that all can hear

To concentrate on the talk and not fall asleep

To turn your report in before someone asks

To willingly do a few menial tasks

To show an interest in the old and the young

To think of your words before using your tongue

To read all the chapters assigned for the week

And always the other's advantage to seek.

To auxiliary pioneer at least twice a year

To informal witness without any fear

To stay for the Service Meeting following the school

To remember to stress that God's Kingdom with rule

To give a fine witness by conduct alone

To submit as a wife to the head of the home

To remember the scripture and read the day's text

To consider your mate's viewpoint

and your own wishes next

To underline the answer in each paragraph

To hear a wrong comment and try not to laugh.

To stay out in service a little bit longer

To sing Kingdom songs a little bit stronger

To listen intently to the prayer said and then

Respond with a heartfelt Amen

PIONEER SCHOOL

It was only a year ago we started our new career,

A life of service, yes, a life of a pioneer.

We've had many blessings this whole year through

But the grandest blessing has been this pioneer school.

We recall our very first day,

Bright beaming faces, yet not much to say.

But the smiles and the look in our eyes a message did send,

Because somehow we knew in a few days we'd be friends.

As we settled in our assigned seats

Ready to be taught, pens in hand and deep in thought

We learned of Jehovah, his qualities and great power

His magnificence in a mountain and his love in a flower.

We learned Christ Jesus is the Way, the truth and the life.

And sisters show subjection and brothers, love your wife. We were taught how to change our personality

And to look to God's Kingdom which is a reality.

We learned so much as each day went by.

With heartfelt appreciation it at times made us cry.

Also the hands that prepared our meals showed they really cared,

And oh what blessings when experiences were shared.

Our hearts are full of kind expressions

For our instructors who taught with such love and affection.

All that we learned these two weeks we will always hold dear

Because of the strength it gives us to continue to pioneer.

WHY WICKEDNESS?

Adam and Eve were perfect when God created them from clay

He told them, "Be fruitful and multiply" to fill the earth someday.

Does this give us a clue to his purpose? to make this earth a delight.

Filled with perfect obedient people? Oh yes, What a beautiful sight.

He didn't want them as robots, so he gave them a choice you see.

It wasn't difficult, just a small test not to eat of a certain tree.

Now a beautiful covering cherub thought he would like to be worshipped as king,

So he tempted that lovely woman

he told her it won't hurt a thing.

To eat of the tree brings wisdom And you will be like God

Knowing for yourself good and bad, and which is the best path to trod.

So the couple chose disobedience and gave up their perfection that day

Telling God they didn't need his rules,

They would decide for themselves the best way.

Now the children brought forth were imperfect, and given to violence and sin.

Let's look now and see what's happened, since the earth has been ruled by men.

Murder reared its ugly head, when Cain killed his younger brother

Wars and crime down through the years prove that people hate one another.

Adultery is running rampant divorce is two out of four.

There's Venereal disease and broken homes, and suicides and more.

Babies are being aborted by the millions It's too sad. It's because men ignore God's guidance that things have got so bad.

Why this earth has become so polluted It's a wonder we aren't all dead. and now the stockpile of weapons, annihilation looms just ahead.

But there is hope, Our God made provision back there in that paradise garden.

For those who want his rulership through Christ's ransom he offers a pardon.

Yes, through Christ's blood we are forgiven, but there's more to it than that.

Each must accept Jehovah's rule for he is the Great Theocrat.

Advocate his rule and tell it to all with listening ears.

For under that perfect government there will be no more death or tears.

Each day that passes brings us closer to the predetermined end.

If you want to survive Armageddon then prove yourself God's friend.

God's purpose never fails, it was interrupted for a while.

Soon this earth will be a perfect place and each human will wear a smile.

Yes, the point will have been proven that man can't direct his own way.

They have tried all forms of government and just look at the mess today.

So study God's word, the Bible, get an accurate knowledge thereof.

And live happily on earth forever, subjecting yourself to God's love.

Yes, some will go to heaven to rule there with Christ the King.

Over an earth filled with loving subjects, what glory to Jehovah that will bring.

And just a little longer,

and the wicked one will be no more,

and you will certainly give attention

to his place and he will not be.

Psalm 37: 10

BEHIND THE SCENES...ANGELS ARE AT WORK

Here are some encouraging remarks heard recently on Jehovah's use of the angels. He could have them materialize to preach the Kingdom. They could do a better job.

More effectively and with discernment, tireless and without discouragement.

But Jehovah has given us the privilege to demonstrate how we feel about his Kingdom and the lives of others. How are we doing? Angels are as busy today as before. We can't always tell what is going on behind the scenes, but the angels can. Remember the charts that formally used to hang on the end of the hospital bed in order to check the patient's progress? Now imagine, the angels keeping a chart on each individual on earth.

Think back to a day when you went in service, but were discouraged. Maybe the first householder wasn't interested. At the second house no one was home. But after you have gone home and feeling discouraged, suppose you could look in on what is happening behind the scenes.

At the first house, the angel noted the response of the lady and put on her chart her heart condition and her apathy. The second house, you marked no one home. However, the angel noted the householder saw you, and recognized that you were one of Jehovah's

Witnesses and she didn't answer the door. And the angel put that on the householder's chart.

Then the next house was a not-at-home, (because both husband and wife work)

and you left a magazine at the door. Later the angel noted that the man came home from work, picked up the magazine and made a commented to his wife about Jehovah's Witnesses having been to their door while they were at work. The angel noted their response to the magazine and to your call.

So even after you are home, affects of your work is still going on. You may be busy at household activities or with the family, but the angel is still busy noting responses on individual charts in your territory from your work that day.

Now the angel makes further notes on the second house, while you are at the third house.

The householder not only didn't answer the door, but called the householder at the fourth house (she is a friend of hers) warning her not to answer the door, so the angel makes appropriate notes on heart conditions of both householders at the second and fourth houses.

Across the street a lady is working in her flower bed and notices you passing by and notices what well-behaved children Jehovah's Witnesses have and comments this to a friend.

On down the street, you didn't notice, but the angel noticed two men in a garbage truck and the passenger told the driver, "I have Jehovah's Witnesses living next door and they are fine neighbours." So the angel notes this response.

So now you have had a glimpse of what might happening as the angels carry out their part connection with the preaching activity. Does it not bring joy to you to be working with such zealous angelic co-workers in the preaching work? You are not so discouraged now, are you?

And you remember that while it gives the greatest joy to harvest fine fruits, the ground work has to be done and it requires long hours of what may seem to be just monotonous ploughing. It is a test of our faith and our love for Jehovah. But with the proper attitude and view, we can exert ourselves vigorously in Jehovah's service doing that ploughing.

Let's give the angels our full co-operation as they note the necessary responses on the charts as to the heart condition of the householders. Then under Jesus' direction we will have the opportunity to give forth a full and evident reaction.

A DREAM

I dreamed that Armageddon was fought the other night

With our God Jehovah using all his might.

As the battle ended Satan was abyssed

I was very thankful that here was one he missed.

Then just as God had promised,

the New World gates swung wide

Then appeared a graceful angel

who ushered each inside.

And at Jehovah's banquet

which all survivors share

were Brothers I judged unworthy

and others as unfair.

Angry words rose to my lips

But were never set free,

For every face showed stunned surprise

No one expected me!

THE KINGDOM HALL

No tongue have I,

nor mouth, nor lips

A speech I cannot make

But if I could,

the things I would say

Would long, long hours take

For I was born to fill a need

In answer to a call

And those who brought me forth to life

Have named me

"Kingdom Hall".

So I have a royal name, you see

And royal was my birth,

I am here for service to a king

I hope to prove my worth.

I want so much to be just right

To suit the need I fill

To aid in serving Kingdom truth

To people of good will

Oh, give me lips and mouth and tongue

And let me tell to all the reason

I am standing here

Why I am a Kingdom Hall.

But what is a Kingdom Hall, you ask

You mean you haven't heard

Why, I am the place where all may come

And freely learn God's word.

No, I am no "church" and don't get me wrong,

I have no pews nor steeple

And never will collection plates

Be used to milk the people

The things you will hear within my walls

Will not be false tradition

You will never hear that hell is hot

For that's a contradiction.

Nor will the pagan idea of

A God who's three-in-one,

Be preached beneath my roof

Such doctrine you should shun.

But rather here inside my doors

You will hear of things reliable

Because they well be taken from

A truthful source...The Bible.

You will learn Jehovah God intends

To rid the earth of woes,

Destroy its sorrows, sin and death,

All mankind deadly foes,

Then in their place will blossom forth

A world of truth and love.

An earth where God's will shall be done

Just as in heaven above.

There will be no sickness, pain nor death,

No tear to mar the smile

No more war will then bring grief and strife

No devil will beguile.

But all who live in that new world

Will humbly bow the knee

Before Jehovah God who reigns

In Grand supremacy.

This is just part of what you will hear

Within these walls of mine

But more than that, you will learn just how,

To make this light to shine

And that's the point I want to stress

Which may seem rather odd

That I am not built just as a place

In which to worship God.

No, here it is you will learn of God

To know what is His will

To learn what he requires of you,

His laws how to fulfil

To worship God means more than sit

it means to act, to serve, to preach

To preach to all who have not heard

Of Jehovah God's most precious word.

So that is why I said before

You worship not in me

But in your daily life you must

Jehovah's witness be outside my doors,

amidst the world You just apply

what you have learned

To worship God aright.

How great my joy...I want to shout

My privilege is so rare

You other buildings of the earth

Cannot with me compare.

If I could talk, I'd raise my voice

And make all buildings know

That my importance excels theirs

For from me truth will flow.

So listen, all you structures proud

You giants of steel and stone,

Your tops may scrape a passing cloud

Or soar where birds have flown.

Your cornerstone may have been laid

By worldly men of fame,

But you cannot boast

that you've been made,

To praise Jehovah's name.

And let us consider one another

to incite to love and fine works

not forsaking the gathering

of ourselves together,

as some have the custom,

but encouraging one another,

and all the more so as

YOU behold the day drawing near

Hebrews 10: 24, 25

THE BOOK BAG

I was sat on the shelf

For everyone to see

In hopes that some lady

Would come in and purchase me.

Then up came this lady

Looked at my price tag

Then said to her companion

“This would make a good book bag.”

And look at this room

And see here how wide

The straps will be sturdy

Hold the weight put inside.

What's a book bag?

say I to the purse at my right

What this lady says

Gives me a fright

The purse on my left

Said with disdain

This woman's a nut

Taken leave of her brain.

Folks, what I have been thru

From that day 'til now

Can't start to explain

I wouldn't know how.

The very first thing she did

That very same night

Was stuff me with things'

Til I was stuffed tight.

Books, Handbills, and Bibles,

One just can't believe

What she poked inside me'

Til I couldn't breathe.

Now, here comes the clincher

Don't think that I lie

In went some magazines

I thought I would die.

Each A.M. is the same

But I must confess

As the day wears on

The load gets much less.

We are all jammed together,

(Other book bags and me),

The group motoring

Along to the territory.

My strap once was chewed

As I sat on the floor

When some sister got in

And closed the car door.

I seen it was coming

As she started to pull

Not an inch could I move

I had been stuffed to the full.

She knocks on the door,

Tells them "Jehovah" about

Reaches into my mouth,

and pulls something out.

And when they do take it

I could do a tail spin,

It's then that I know

She will not cram it back in.

The times I can't count

Her Bible I saw

First in, then back out.

My rib cage is raw.

And there's something else

she uses me for

And as a result

My sides are quite sore.

When there's a dog,

That acts like it's mean

Down goes her arm

Putting me in between.

She takes me on studies

Oh, I've learned a lot,

How the righteous will live

But the wicked will not.

When we go in a house

There I sit on the floor

While she tells the person

What lies in store.

While they are talking

Some kids head my way,

They are so busy

No mind do they pay.

Since she is not looking

He opens my flap

While he is rummaging around

I'd like to give him a slap.

I remember the time

As in one house we sat

This dog came over...

Well, we won't go into that

She stops for a break

To get out of the heat

Leaving me there waiting,

Out on the car seat.

Boy, I'd like to tell her,

But what good would that do

Can't she see that I'm sitting out

here, melting too?

Well I could go on,

About what I have seen

Ranging from those receptive

To those who are mean

There's one thing I ponder

The resurrection to be,

Do you think there's a chance

For a book bag like me?

They say it's for people

Who are sleeping in Hell

Those who have been faithful

And have served God well.

Well, I have served long

But I'm on my last stitch

Will I be resurrected

Or thrown out in the ditch?

I guess I'll just wait,

See what there shall be,

But you ain't seen nothing'

Til you're a Book bag like me!

THE GATHERING CLOUDS

When storm clouds gather round us

Do trembles come from fear?

Is our faith badly shaken

For all that we hold dear?

Or can we hold our heads up

With hearts and minds steadfast

Facing such perils bravely

Until the trials are past?

This world is full of heartache

For this we know is true

We can't solve all our problems

Nor know just what to do.

We must first see the reason

For badness so

Love with strong faith for man's maker

And promised things will show.

This brings us all contentment

No fear can wipe away

And our faith will never leave us

Who cares what men may say.

So let us pull together

To stay on God's right way

Then we'll know hope's fulfilment

That joyous happy day.

NO TIME

I knelt to pray, but not for long

I had so much to do

Must hurry off and get to work

for bills would soon be due

And so I said a hurried prayer

Jumped up and off my knees

My Christian duty now was done,

My soul could be at ease.

All through the day, I had no time

To speak a word of cheer

No time to speak of the Kingdom to friends

They'd laugh at me, I feared

No time, no time, so much to do

That was my constant cry

No time to give to those in need

At last t'was time to die.

And when before Jehovah I came,

I stood with feelings of strive.

Within his hands he held a book

It was the Book of Life.

God looked into his book and said

"Your name I cannot find

I once was going to write it down,

But never found the time."

A REGULAR PIONEER

I've set upon an arduous course,

But, oh Joy, I will see,

Jehovah accepted, I'm a regular Pioneer

Lord, here I am, send me

Many prayers have I supplicated

Jehovah, can I see this through?

I made my vow and dedication

our will I want to do.

Notes and scriptures about Pioneering

Coincidence I would find

Those encouraging talks and experiences

Were indelibly on my mind.

My goal was set, a schedule, too

Boy, that was hard for me.

But Jehovah knows my weaknesses

He's pulled me through to be.

A good for nothing slave I am,

Only did what I was told

Declared the Kingdom Good News

Be courageous, firm and bold.

So, a point I make to work with those

Who chose the best career

Nowhere else would they rather be,

Than serving as a regular Pioneer.

We know the sheep are out there yet,

The Angels will direct

Please bless the ministry, my God,

From the wicked one he'll protect

Oh, what joy at heart we feel

When a meek one does agree,

That there has to be a better life,

And start a Bible Study.

What patience it does take for us,

So many not at home.

The listening ears are getting few

But remember we are not alone.

Encouragement from one another

Experiences to share

Such joyful praises and happy faces,

all God's true servant's wear.

So if you have the pioneer spirit

For a day, a month, a year

You will see how rich Jehovah blesses

In being a regular Pioneer

A WORLD WITHOUT TEARS

Just think of a world, a world without tears,

Where a man can live for a million years.

With never a grief, an ache or a pain

And never a thought of dying again.

Think of a world, when a man plants a vine

He can sit in its shade and say, "This is Mine!"

He will live in a house his own hand has made,

And naught shall molest or make him afraid.

Think of a world without bloodshed and strife.

Where no man dare take another man's life

Where man unto man will unite in peace

And malice and hatred forever cease.

Think of the earth as a global paradise,

Where mountain and desert will dazzle your eyes,

with beautiful shrubbery, flowers and trees

With gay butterflies, songbirds and bees.

Think! Just as sure as God's word is truth

A man shall return to the days of his youth

His friendship shall become as the friendship of a child

And the words that he speaks will be cheerful and mild.

Think of a world where a lame man will leap.

From crag to crag like a deer or a sheep

Where none will be deaf or none shall be blind,

And the mute shall sing and speak forth their mind.

Think of a world where each man is his brother

None esteeming himself above that of another.

Where man will be friend to friend.

In a world without tears, that will never end.

Think of a world where the dead have risen.

From their silent tombs that hold them in prison,

To forever live, to love and caress,

Their loved ones and friends in righteousness.

Now a "World without tears" is not just a dream

As many a person might make it seem

For just as sure as the Bible is true

A world without tears now lies before you.

And such a world before you now lies

Wouldn't you like to live in such a paradise.

And share all the blessings that God has in store

For all who would do His will evermore.

Good News of the Kingdom is still being sung,

Throughout every nation, kingdom and tongue,

And all who are thirsting the truth are invited

To join the New World society and be united.

In praising our God, our Saviour, our King

And giving to him all we have, everything.

That we might live through endless years,

In a world without sorrow, "A world Without Tears!"

And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes,

and death will be no more,

neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.

The former things have passed away.

Revelation 21: 3, 4

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES MAKE MEAN PARENTS

I have the meanest parents in the world. They are Jehovah's Witnesses. They have very, very strange ways and guidelines that they believe in despite any influence that this modern, updated world has to offer. My mother and father always insisted that they knew where I was. Not only that, they made special arrangements

to be with me wherever I would go. I couldn't go anywhere without them. When other children on the block would be playing in the streets or later, in their teen years, down at the local pool hall, I would be with my "mean" parents going from house to house. I was learning how to do different things around the house. When the other teenagers were out dragging in sports cars or smoking pot, my "mean" parents had me with them at the congregation meetings.

I never got to experience a night in jail. I never got to know what it was like to get drunk and get thrown in jail. I never got to know what it was like to get drunk and get thrown out of bars.

But no, my "mean" parents, "Jehovah's Witnesses" and I were busy going to New York, California, Kansas and other parts of the country to attend conventions.

My "mean" parents never let me be exposed to any of the worldly celebration. All I ever do is go to meet and get acquainted with the ones that Jesus Christ has selected to rule with him as Kings and Priests over all mankind.

I never can look back and recall the good old days, just sitting around doing nothing. That never happened with me having "mean" parents.

There was always too many things to be done. They never allowed me to date or to associate with others just my own age.

Instead, I had to associate with ones who were older in years spiritually. Ones that were in the service for many, many years.

My "mean" parents even went so far as to map out my future for

me. Instead of a college education they started making plans for me early in life. They even took it upon themselves to decide that they wanted me to live on this earth and share in the work of making it into a paradise.

They have done everything in their power to make that desire a reality. Imagine living in a beautiful paradise earth forever. Never having to know the thrills of men's wars, never having

experienced the thought of knowing that you have taken the lives of your fellowmen in war.

My "mean" parents were strict. They wouldn't permit any wrong doing on my part.

I don't know the experience of having to go to the doctor because of diseases common to persons indulging in immoral

conduct. I don't know the problem of having an unwanted child. Instead, they insisted that I wait until I was grown and strong

spiritually before they permitted me to date.

And then, only because it was someone of their liking, someone that would be the same disposition that they were.

So I married someone who met the high standards of my "mean" parents. He, too, was raised by "mean" parents, and together, we have decided that we intend to be the same kind of "mean parents ours were.

Train up a boy according to the way for him; even when he grows old he will not turn aside from it.

Proverbs 22: 6

ADVICE FROM A MOTHER TO A PIONEER

As you enter upon this new venture

Joy fills you, heart and soul

Your excitement is bubbling over

You have realized your goal

Jehovah heard you pray

You have often asked me questions

As you've looked for good advice

Now I am giving some unasked for

It will help you more than twice

Don't forget to pray.

When the morning sun is shining

You feel great, have lot's to do.

Your partner is your best friend

She's fun to be with too,

To begin the day, do pray.

While knocking on the door

And not sure what to say

If you partner to you is chatting

In such a friendly way,

It will help to pray.

At times you'll be discouraged

As things unplanned takes place

It could be your car, your health, the weather

Other problems that you face.

to cope, you'll need to pray.

If others have a thousand hours

Before the first of June

And you still need three hundred

Don't give up too soon

Not before you pray.

When money is in short supply

And shorter it is getting.

And there's a job! You could apply!

Before you think of quitting

You had better pray.

When one little thing, then another

Just whittles away your time

And your hours you add over and over

In hope you missed a line

It will help you if you pray

When you're late for the text and your partner

Calls to cancel before you get there

And everyone left there has studies

Don't cry! you can still be a pair

All you have to do is pray.

You can see what I'm trying to tell you.

As an aid to success you will find

That when planning and study

and people fail to do

all that you had in mind

You can still make it if you pray.

At the end of each day you can look back

And be glad that you did what you did

For you spent your time in the Lord's work,

You did the same thing Christ Jesus did.

You will say, "Thank You" when you pray

And you probably know that your mother,

Has looked forward to this day.

She wants you to be happy

And pioneering is the way

So pray and pray and pray!

THE CARPENTER'S TOOLS

The carpenter's tools had a conference. Brother Hammer was the chairman. Upon bringing the meeting to order, he said that he had heard there were some complaints among his fellow tools and thought it would be a good idea to discuss it openly and frankly together."So let's hear your complaints, Brother Tools.

Yes, Brother Saw, what is your complaint?"Brother saw stood up and said: "It's that little Brother pencil? He gets

on everyone's nerves. He is so small, he can hardly be found when he is needed and when he is found for service, he is always so blunt that he makes a bad impression. He certainly needs to be sharpened up a bit if he expects to be of any use."Then little Brother Pencil slowly rose to his feet and spoke "Alright, I may be blunt at times, but its when I spend too long in service when I am like that. But at least I am not like big Brother Drill and his family of bits. It seems to me that they are always going around in circles and really to me, Brother Drill is a bit boring."So Brother Drill and all his family of little bits stood up and he

replied, "Yes, I know I have a reputation of going around in circles, but at least my family is not like Brother Plane. You have to push his to get him to do anything. And then all of his work is on the surface. There is no depth to his work, like that of ours."Well, all the tools agreed that Brother Drill had a good point about Brother Plane. All eyes turned to Brother Plane to see what he would say.

"Well Brothers." spoke up Brother Plane, "I guess I'm not the only one around here that has to be pushed to do anything or who has no depth in service. Brother Sandpaper is worse than I am. He is new in our midst and look how rough he is?

I can't stand to be beside him, he just rubs me the wrong way. How he can accomplish anything in his service, I will never know.

He is so... irritating."Well, up jumped Brother Sandpaper and he was really mad!!! "Brother Plane is just jealous!"He shouted,

"He knows I have better success in service than he does," Raising his voice even louder, he yelled, "While everyone is complaining, how about Brother Rule?”

He makes me boil by always measuring others by his standards, as though Brother Rule is the only one right around here."

Well, all the tools seemed to have legitimate complaints against one another. Some suggested that a committee be formed to hear all the complaints and try to settle them.

Brother Level was suggested, but he was turned down because he was so exacting. Brother Square was turned down

because he was too old-fashioned. Brother Chisel could be so cutting and everyone

was afraid of Brother Punch. In the midst of the heated discussion and some were about to walk out, (thinking they were not needed), who should walk in but their master, the carpenter from Nazareth. His father had asked him to build a house they could dwell in, and now he was almost finished with it. He put on his work clothes and started to finish the work that his father had given him to do.

And he used the saw, the hammer, the pencil, the drill and the plane. He also used the sandpaper, the ruler and the level,

the punch and the other tools. But now, someone else appeared on the scene. It was the carpenter's father. How pleased and thrilled he was to see what his son had accomplished."How did you do it, my son? asked the father."Well, I put to use all the tools I bought and how I love everyone of them. I paid a high price for them, father, but they are really worth it. See Brother Hammer there, he is so useful for the work of both tearing down and building up. He is really effective in the service because he really hits the nail on the head. He is a very solid worker

I must say. And Brother Saw, he is really a good worker, he is really sharp and puts teeth into his work.

Constantly going back and forth in one area at a time for a very effective service. I am sure glad to have Brother Pencil too, although he is not very big and I have to sharpen him up a bit from time to time like the other tools, he is very useful in the correcting and marking work.

And father, here is another one that I just couldn't be without. Big Brother Drill and all those little bits in his family. They are so good at reaching down deep into the heart and they are always leaving a way for a follow-up.

And look at this Brother Plane, he is so handy to have around in the service. He is a very smooth worker and never bites off more than he can chew at one time.

He is so good at overcoming obstacles as well.""And how did you find this tool, my son?" asked his father."You mean Brother Level?" Questioned the son, "He is another one that is very useful to me. He has a good eye for balance and he is so level-headed. I can use him often, for he does a good job for me""I am so thankful," said the carpenter, "for even the very small tools I

bought. They are so essential for my work. Take little Brother Punch, for example. Although he is quite small, with the assistance of Brother

hammer, he does a fine job of driving his point home. And there is tiny Brother Rule, although he is small in size, he is always extending himself to meet various circumstance, and is accurate in his service. Even my new tools, like Brother Sandpaper, I don't know how I could get along without him. Although there is a certain roughness about him, he does well in producing smooth results through his service.""So, you see, father," said the carpenter, "it is because of having a variety of good tools that I am able to accomplish so much.

I am so thankful that I have all of these tools, so that with their help I can finish your house you have asked me to build. Let me show you around the rest of the building, father."Well upon their leaving, all the carpenters tools started rejoicing because of hearing the carpenter's commendation and seeing how pleased the father was with what they had accomplished together. Brother Hammer arose again and said, "Brothers, I perceive that all of us are needed, although all of us may have our faults or not do things the same as other things we should, whether old or new, young or old, large or small, all of us are labourers together in pleasing our Master and his Father."

A Grand Career

Some of you who are here tonight

Are beginning new careers

You've planned and worked toward this goal.

And now you are pioneers.

And the rest of us would like to ask

Perhaps it sounds absurd

Would you investigate for us

The stories that we've heard?

We have heard some amazing claims!

We wonder if they're true?

Of benefits received by those

Who share this work with you.

Is your conscience really clearer

Than it was before you started?

Do you feel closer to Jehovah

And from worldly goals safeguarded?

Are you thinking more of others?

Not so often of just you?

Are there blessings from Jehovah

For you family members, too?

Can you defend the truth more ably?

Are you comfortable at the doors?

Are you really better organized

To deal with all your chores?

Is your thinking more in balanced?

Do you worry less and less?

Are the goals you 're reaching for each month

Worthwhile? The very best?

And do you always have before you

How we need the Kingdom rule?

Is your mind kept on the "real life"?

Valued as a precious Jewel?

Do you keep abreast of Kingdom truths?

Draw close to sisters and brothers?

Find joy in doing Jehovah's work?

Feel good about helping others?

Are you happy to help Jehovah this way?

In this important time in history?

How one career could do all this

Does seem to be a mystery!

Yet many have called it a vital work

A privilege in which to share

Spiritually upbuilding

And Proof of Jehovah's care.

If you find these claims are valid

That this work brings satisfaction

Please come and tell us the results

On your investigative action.

If one career can do all this,

If the stories we've heard are true,

Perhaps there are more of us here tonight

Who will take up this work with you.

FOR A PIONEER'S HUSBAND

When a young man gets married

He gets much advice

From friends who

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