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00:00:01 We warmly welcome all of you 00:00:04 to this month’s broadcast. 00:00:08 Here is just a taste 00:00:10 of what we can look forward to on the program. 00:00:14 A life spent in the full-time ministry 00:00:18 is both exciting and challenging. 00:00:20 We’ll meet a brother and his wife 00:00:22 who have spent decades in various forms of this service. 00:00:26 What lessons can we learn from their experiences? 00:00:31 Then we’ll hear the story of a woman 00:00:33 who struggled for years with severe drug addiction. 00:00:38 What would help her eventually break free? 00:00:42 And our new music video 00:00:44 will help us feel the brotherly love we enjoy 00:00:49 as a part of Jehovah’s organization. 00:00:53 There’s certainly plenty to enjoy 00:00:55 on this August 2018 edition 00:01:00 of JW Broadcasting. 00:01:21 The theme for this month’s program is 00:01:25 “Appreciating Our ‘Gifts in Men.’” 00:01:31 Who of us does not enjoy being given 00:01:34 a fine, well-chosen gift? 00:01:37 For example, you brothers, 00:01:39 do you not take pleasure in receiving 00:01:42 a colorful but tasteful, 00:01:45 100 percent silk tie? 00:01:48 Or, you sisters, do you not delight in being given 00:01:51 an exquisite, charming silk scarf? 00:01:55 But what if you took that silk tie 00:01:58 or silk scarf 00:02:01 and used it to polish your shoes? 00:02:04 How do you think the giver of your gift would feel 00:02:08 if he saw you using his gift in that way? 00:02:12 Obviously, it would be misuse 00:02:15 and disrespect for the gift and would insult the giver. 00:02:20 What is the point of our illustration? 00:02:24 Well, Jehovah and Jesus have given us 00:02:28 a fine, well-chosen gift in the form of the elders. 00:02:33 But as we will discuss, 00:02:36 all of us must make sure 00:02:38 that we always show appreciation and respect 00:02:43 for this divine provision. 00:02:46 Please turn to Ephesians 4:8, 00:02:51 and let’s read about this gift 00:02:55 that Jehovah and Jesus have given us. 00:02:59 It reads: 00:03:01 “For it says: 00:03:03 “‘When he ascended on high 00:03:06 “‘he carried away captives; 00:03:09 he gave gifts in men.’” 00:03:12 You notice, by means of Jesus’ perfect integrity, 00:03:17 Jesus conquered Satan and his world. 00:03:21 As a world conqueror, 00:03:23 figuratively He has plundered captives 00:03:27 and has given them as gifts to the congregations. 00:03:32 How useful are these “gifts in men”? 00:03:35 Well, please look at verses 11 and 12 for the answer: 00:03:40 “And he gave some as apostles, 00:03:42 “some as prophets, 00:03:45 “some as evangelizers, 00:03:47 “some as shepherds and teachers, 00:03:50 “with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, 00:03:55 “for ministerial work, 00:03:57 to build up the body of the Christ.” 00:04:01 Notice, they would be “evangelizers” 00:04:05 —taking the lead 00:04:07 in the all-important preaching and disciple-making work. 00:04:11 They do not simply say to the publishers, 00:04:13 “Go in the preaching work.” 00:04:17 They say: “Come. Come with us. 00:04:21 Let’s work together in this never-to-be-repeated work.” 00:04:26 They’re also “shepherds” 00:04:28 —protecting the flock from Satan 00:04:31 the “murderer,” “serpent,” “dragon,” and “lion.” 00:04:35 Additionally, they are “teachers” 00:04:38 —feeding the flock with nourishing spiritual food. 00:04:43 But now we ask, 00:04:45 How does Jehovah tell us 00:04:47 that we should feel about these hardworking “gifts in men”? 00:04:51 Let’s go to 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, 00:04:55 and let’s get the answer. 00:04:58 At 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, 00:05:00 beginning in verse number 12, 00:05:04 notice what Jehovah says: 00:05:06 “Now we request you, brothers, 00:05:09 “to show respect 00:05:12 “for those who are working hard among you 00:05:15 “and presiding over you in the Lord 00:05:18 “and admonishing you; 00:05:21 “and to give them extraordinary consideration 00:05:25 “in love because of their work. 00:05:28 Be peaceable with one another.” 00:05:33 Notice, we’re told to “show respect” 00:05:37 for these dear brothers. 00:05:39 But now, let’s move to a vital question, 00:05:43 How can we show, demonstrate, 00:05:47 that we do deeply respect 00:05:50 and appreciate these dear brothers? 00:05:53 The first way: 00:05:55 by wholeheartedly cooperating with them. 00:05:59 Please turn to Hebrews 13:17, 00:06:05 and this scripture describes how deep 00:06:08 our cooperation should be, verse 17: 00:06:13 “Be obedient 00:06:15 “to those who are taking the lead among you 00:06:19 “and be submissive, 00:06:22 “for they are keeping watch over you 00:06:25 “as those who will render an account, 00:06:28 “so that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, 00:06:32 for this would be damaging to you.” 00:06:36 Notice, we are told to “be obedient.” 00:06:41 Clearly, this means that we’re supposed to comply with, 00:06:44 or obey, what they tell us. 00:06:47 Of course, that would be with the proviso: 00:06:50 unless they tell us to do something that is unscriptural. 00:06:53 And, of course, that would be extremely rare. 00:06:57 We’re also told to “be submissive.” 00:07:01 This includes the attitude 00:07:04 with which we’re to be obedient 00:07:06 —doing so with a yielding, positive attitude. 00:07:12 Would it be possible to be obedient 00:07:15 but not submissive? 00:07:17 Well, what if we said: 00:07:19 “OK. I’ll do what the elders suggest. 00:07:24 I don’t want to do it, but I’ll do it.” 00:07:29 We would be obedient but not submissive. 00:07:33 However, Jehovah tells us 00:07:36 to display both of these qualities. 00:07:39 We should be obedient and submissive 00:07:42 even if what the elders are asking us to do 00:07:46 is not the best, most efficient way to do something. 00:07:50 Permit me to illustrate this point. 00:07:53 Admittedly, the illustration is somewhat exaggerated, 00:07:58 but hopefully it will make the point. 00:08:01 Please imagine that the elders decide 00:08:05 that the outside of the Kingdom Hall 00:08:07 needs to be painted and that all the publishers 00:08:11 will be given a small two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush 00:08:15 with which to paint. 00:08:17 Now, what could happen? 00:08:19 The publishers could get all upset 00:08:22 concerning this request of the elders, 00:08:24 saying, “It is ridiculous that the elders want us 00:08:29 to paint with a small two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush!” 00:08:32 Consequently, some could start campaigning 00:08:36 for the right for everyone to use a six-inch (15 cm) paintbrush. 00:08:41 Others might campaign for using paint rollers 00:08:46 to roll the paint on the Kingdom Hall. 00:08:49 Still others might start trying to build support 00:08:53 for renting and using a paint sprayer 00:08:57 to spray the paint on the Kingdom Hall. 00:09:00 In another camp, ones might champion the idea 00:09:04 of hiring out to a contractor 00:09:06 the painting of the Kingdom Hall, 00:09:09 while another group is promoting the idea 00:09:13 that the Kingdom Hall doesn’t even need to be painted. 00:09:17 Now, what would be the outcome? 00:09:20 The congregation would be divided, 00:09:23 the Kingdom Hall would never get painted, 00:09:26 publishers could end up stumbled right out of the truth, 00:09:30 the elders would be very discouraged, 00:09:33 Jehovah would be sad, 00:09:35 and Satan would be made very happy. 00:09:40 On the other hand, 00:09:42 what if everyone humbly supported the elders, perhaps thinking: 00:09:47 ‘There’s no scripture 00:09:49 ‘that says we can’t paint with a two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush. 00:09:53 ‘In fact, Hebrews 13:17 tells us 00:09:57 ‘to “be obedient” and “submissive” to the elders. 00:10:01 So why don’t we go ahead and support the elders?’ 00:10:04 Now what would be the outcome? 00:10:08 The Kingdom Hall would get painted, 00:10:11 the publishers would get to enjoy 00:10:13 a lot of good association 00:10:15 because they’d be working together for a long time, 00:10:20 the elders would be very encouraged, 00:10:23 Satan would be sad, 00:10:26 and Jehovah’s heart would be made glad. 00:10:31 Well, what is the point of this hyperbole illustration? 00:10:36 Being obedient and submissive to those taking the lead 00:10:41 is much more important than how something is done. 00:10:45 That is the attitude 00:10:47 that Jehovah will richly bless. 00:10:50 But, now, a second way we can demonstrate 00:10:54 that we deeply appreciate these dear brothers 00:10:57 is to pray for them. 00:11:00 Please note what the elder Paul urged 00:11:04 the brothers to do for him 00:11:06 at Romans 15:30. 00:11:11 Here Paul said: 00:11:13 “Now I urge you, brothers, 00:11:17 “through our Lord Jesus Christ 00:11:20 “and through the love of the spirit, 00:11:23 “that you exert yourselves with me 00:11:26 in prayers to God for me.” 00:11:31 Paul recognized 00:11:34 the power that he would derive 00:11:36 as a result of others praying for him, 00:11:40 and your local elders feel the same way. 00:11:44 But the question is, 00:11:46 In your personal, private prayers, 00:11:49 do you regularly thank Jehovah 00:11:52 for your “gifts in men” and entreat Jehovah 00:11:54 to richly supply them with his powerful holy spirit? 00:11:59 Our answer to that question can reveal much 00:12:04 about our appreciation for these hardworking elders. 00:12:09 Now let’s move to a third way 00:12:12 that we can demonstrate deep appreciation: 00:12:16 We can do so by commending the elders. 00:12:21 Here is a soul-searching question: 00:12:24 Do you periodically go up 00:12:26 to various elders and say something like, 00:12:30 “Brother Elder, 00:12:32 “we just want to thank you for your hard work. 00:12:35 Please be assured that we appreciate it”? 00:12:39 However, it seems 00:12:42 that some publishers never ever commend the elders 00:12:46 or express appreciation. 00:12:49 Might this not indicate that we are taking them 00:12:53 and their hard work for granted? 00:12:55 Of course, they will not quit if you do not give them commendation; 00:12:59 they primarily do their work for Jehovah. 00:13:03 But if you do express appreciation, 00:13:06 believe me, it will be most encouraging to them. 00:13:11 And even though it may really surprise the elder 00:13:15 the very first time you do this, 00:13:17 please do not hold back 00:13:19 this “good from those to whom it is owing.” 00:13:24 Appropriately, 00:13:26 Jehovah tells us at Proverbs 3:27: 00:13:30 “Do not withhold good from those to whom you should give it 00:13:35 if it is within your power to help.” 00:13:40 And one thing that will move us to be more aware 00:13:43 of commending the elders is to remember all the good work they are doing. 00:13:48 Many elders are family men 00:13:51 who must work secularly to provide for their families. 00:13:55 If he has children, 00:13:57 these young ones need time and attention from their father. 00:14:02 He may need to help them with their schoolwork 00:14:05 as well as schedule time for them 00:14:07 to enjoy wholesome recreation. 00:14:11 Most important, he cares for the spiritual needs of his family 00:14:16 —regularly conducting family worship, 00:14:19 working with them in the ministry, 00:14:21 and taking them to meetings. 00:14:24 But in addition to these numerous responsibilities 00:14:27 common to many of us, 00:14:30 they have voluminous additional responsibilities 00:14:33 as elders. 00:14:35 And much of the elders’ hard work 00:14:37 in our behalf is not seen by the congregation. 00:14:42 For example, you may see 00:14:44 an elder giving a part on the meeting. 00:14:46 What you didn’t see 00:14:48 are the hours he spent preparing that part. 00:14:52 How long does it take you 00:14:55 to prepare a student assignment 00:14:58 on the midweek meeting? 00:15:00 Some elders have a part every week, 00:15:03 sometimes more than one. 00:15:05 While gaining experience in speaking is certainly helpful, 00:15:10 the fact remains 00:15:12 that good talks require hard work. 00:15:17 But that is not all that the elders do. 00:15:20 They have shepherding calls to make 00:15:23 and judicial cases to handle. 00:15:26 Some elders are also busy helping to build Kingdom Halls 00:15:30 and branch facilities, 00:15:32 serving on Hospital Liaison Committees, 00:15:35 volunteering at assemblies and conventions 00:15:38 —and elders do many other things 00:15:41 that are too numerous to recount. 00:15:45 What we see is often only the tip of the iceberg 00:15:50 —90 percent of an iceberg 00:15:53 is unseen underwater. 00:15:56 At 2 Timothy 4:6, 00:16:00 the apostle Paul referred to himself 00:16:03 as “being poured out like a drink offering.” 00:16:08 A drink offering 00:16:10 was poured on the altar and went up in smoke. 00:16:14 That well describes how the elders likewise 00:16:18 expend themselves. 00:16:21 Remembering all of this should move us 00:16:25 to regularly offer sincere commendation 00:16:29 to our hardworking elders. 00:16:32 Now we have discussed ways 00:16:35 that we can demonstrate 00:16:37 that we deeply appreciate our “gifts in men.” 00:16:42 We should (1) wholeheartedly cooperate with them, 00:16:48 (2) pray for them, 00:16:51 and (3) commend them. 00:16:54 Thereby we will prove 00:16:56 that we are not even slightly like 00:16:59 an unappreciative recipient of a silk tie or a silk scarf, 00:17:04 who uses that gift to polish his shoes. 00:17:08 To the contrary, 00:17:10 we will prove to Jehovah and Jesus 00:17:13 that we love, respect, 00:17:16 and appreciate 00:17:18 the divine gifts —our “gifts in men”— 00:17:21 that they have so generously given to us! 00:17:28 But, now, what effect can these “gifts in men” 00:17:32 have on individuals who have strayed from Jehovah 00:17:36 and his organization? 00:17:39 What actions show that they are loving shepherds 00:17:42 who want to assist these ones to return to Jehovah 00:17:47 despite serious struggles or even addictions? 00:17:52 Let’s look for those answers in the following story. 00:17:58 ‘Turn your life around, 00:18:01 ‘so that seasons of refreshing 00:18:03 may come from Jehovah himself.’ 00:18:07 Those words changed my life, 00:18:09 and they saved the life of my little girl. 00:18:13 I was raised in a Witness family. 00:18:19 But I chose 00:18:23 a dark underworld 00:18:26 of practically everything that Jehovah hates. 00:18:30 After about 15 years, 00:18:33 although financially secure, 00:18:36 I was confronted with the failure that my life had become. 00:18:45 I was trying to raise a child while addicted to drugs. 00:18:51 I just didn’t want to live like that anymore, 00:18:54 and I wanted to be a good mother. 00:18:57 So for the first time in years, 00:19:00 I prayed to Jehovah. 00:19:04 The knock came on my door the very next day. 00:19:12 I began studying with a vengeance. 00:19:17 I had 15 years to catch up on. 00:19:21 I had a lot of help. 00:19:25 I progressively changed my lifestyle, 00:19:27 I changed my associates, 00:19:30 and I conquered my addiction. 00:19:32 I slowly began to overcome 00:19:35 feelings of worthlessness. 00:19:39 So none of these changes were easy to make, 00:19:42 but it made me feel 00:19:44 clean and happy 00:19:45 knowing that Jehovah was pleased. 00:19:48 My burning desire at that point really was to begin sharing 00:19:51 with other people what I was learning, 00:19:54 but I didn’t qualify to engage in the public ministry 00:19:58 because I was still living with my boyfriend at the time. 00:20:02 And he didn’t understand some of the changes I was making. 00:20:05 I was determined 00:20:07 to turn my life around and overcome this last hurdle 00:20:11 that was preventing me from serving Jehovah fully. 00:20:17 Two weeks later, 00:20:19 I found out I was pregnant. 00:20:22 I was devastated. 00:20:25 I didn’t know what all those people who had helped me would think 00:20:29 and how Jehovah felt about what was happening. 00:20:35 I was so ashamed. 00:20:38 I actually blamed Jehovah for letting it happen. 00:20:42 I was so confused. 00:20:45 My first inclination 00:20:47 was just to get an abortion. 00:20:51 But deep down, I knew that was wrong. 00:20:54 I thought, ‘Now everyone will know 00:20:57 ‘that I’m still the worthless person 00:20:59 that I always knew I was.’ 00:21:03 At that point, I just felt like giving up. 00:21:07 I told my aunt and uncle, 00:21:10 who are Jehovah’s Witnesses, about my situation. 00:21:14 They didn’t judge me at all, 00:21:16 but they did offer a curious suggestion: 00:21:19 They invited me up to Bethel for a visit. 00:21:23 They introduced me to an elder who was very kind, 00:21:26 and I talked to him about my situation. 00:21:29 I was shocked 00:21:31 by how loving he was. 00:21:34 So he shared with me Acts 3:19. 00:21:38 “Repent, therefore, and turn around 00:21:42 “so as to get your sins blotted out, 00:21:45 “that seasons of refreshing 00:21:47 may come from the person of Jehovah.” 00:21:51 Well, he told me 00:21:53 I had already sinned, but why should I sin a second time? 00:21:57 Why should this innocent child pay 00:21:59 for what I had done wrong? 00:22:01 He suggested I teach my baby 00:22:04 about Jehovah and raise the child up 00:22:07 to know Him and have a friendship with Him. 00:22:11 I loved that he took something that was 00:22:15 sad and depressing for me 00:22:18 and turned it into something beautiful. 00:22:20 Well, I had a new plan now. 00:22:22 I was really determined to do everything I had to do 00:22:25 to turn my life around in order to please Jehovah. 00:22:28 So eventually I qualified to become an unbaptized publisher, 00:22:32 and later I was baptized in 2010. 00:22:36 I gave birth to a healthy baby girl. 00:22:40 I already dedicated my life to Jehovah. 00:22:43 So two of my goals are to get baptized and pioneer. 00:22:47 I’m as determined as ever to raise Jolie up to love Jehovah 00:22:52 and to avoid the traps that almost cost us our lives. 00:23:01 Describing our elders, 00:23:04 Isaiah 32:2 reads: 00:23:08 “And each one will be like a hiding place from the wind, 00:23:13 “a place of concealment from the rainstorm, 00:23:18 “like streams of water in a waterless land, 00:23:22 “like the shadow of a massive crag 00:23:26 in a parched land.” 00:23:29 Did you note two key ways our “gifts in men” did that? 00:23:35 One, the elder she met at Bethel 00:23:39 was kind and approachable. 00:23:42 He made her feel comfortable to express herself. 00:23:46 Two, he lovingly used the Bible 00:23:51 to help her make a wise decision and avoid further calamity. 00:23:56 This is an excellent example 00:23:59 of how elders can help ones who are struggling spiritually. 00:24:06 But in what other ways can elders be an example? 00:24:11 In their zeal for the ministry. 00:24:14 But what if weather conditions in our territory make this difficult? 00:24:19 When the elders take the lead, 00:24:22 the rest of the congregation responds in the same way. 00:24:28 The example of those preaching in the Faroe Islands 00:24:32 will offer some encouraging tips. 00:24:47 The Faroe Islands are also called the Land of Maybe. 00:24:51 The weather is very diverse and can rapidly change. 00:24:57 So when you begin in the ministry, the weather can be sunny. 00:25:00 And then ten minutes later, you find yourself 00:25:03 in a massive rain shower and everything gets wet. 00:25:07 Wind is another challenge. 00:25:09 We have some severe winter storms. 00:25:11 So you have to be careful that your service partner or the car door 00:25:15 doesn’t blow away while you’re getting out of the car. 00:25:20 We make sure to wear clothes appropriate for the weather. 00:25:25 And also to stay updated on the weather situation 00:25:29 and see where in our territory the weather is most suitable, and then adapt. 00:25:34 If the weather is nice, then we try to go from house to house. 00:25:38 And if the weather is bad, 00:25:40 then you can go on calls where you can go inside, 00:25:42 meaning where they will invite you in 00:25:45 or where the entrance is covered. 00:25:48 And you can plan your ministry so that if the weather gets bad, 00:25:50 you can make visits that you know will be at home that time of day. 00:25:56 When the weather is poor, it’s good to adjust. 00:25:59 Maybe you can do some telephone witnessing or letter writing. 00:26:03 At a meeting for pioneers, 00:26:05 an elder reminded us that when the weather is bad, 00:26:08 try not to think: ‘The weather is bad again,’ 00:26:11 but instead, ‘Yay! Now people are actually at home.’ 00:26:16 It is a good idea to have a plan for whom you’d like to visit 00:26:20 and what you’d like to talk to them about 00:26:22 because then when it rains or the weather isn’t ideal, 00:26:25 you focus on your plan 00:26:27 instead of thinking that now I have been out preaching 00:26:30 for five hours in stormy weather. 00:26:33 I think Ecclesiastes 11:4 applies quite well to our territory: 00:26:38 “The one who watches the wind will not sow seed, 00:26:42 and the one who looks at the clouds will not reap.” 00:26:45 If we have to wait for the perfect weather conditions to preach, 00:26:50 then we wouldn’t be out that often. 00:26:52 Something else that helps us to endure bad weather 00:26:54 is to think of the first publishers in the Faroe Islands. 00:26:58 They fought with seasickness, bad weather, 00:27:01 and they had to hike over the mountains to visit remote settlements. 00:27:04 They overcame these obstacles, 00:27:07 and it motivates me to overcome the challenges I am facing today. 00:27:11 I remember when we came to the Faroe Islands, 00:27:14 I looked out the window and thought,‘Is it even possible 00:27:17 to go out in the ministry in this kind of weather?’ 00:27:20 And then we arrived at the meeting for field service, 00:27:23 and the friends with children and strollers were there 00:27:26 and were positive and ready for field service. 00:27:28 It made me think that if they can do it, then I can too. 00:27:34 So we are a team of publishers, and we have the weather as our challenge. 00:27:39 And especially when the weather is bad, we encourage one another. 00:27:45 We really like the song “The Life of a Pioneer.” 00:27:49 It’s an amazing song. 00:27:51 It says: “In the work we endure, whether sunshine or rain.” 00:27:55 It’s because we love Jehovah. 00:27:59 We really want people to get to know Jehovah. 00:28:02 They need to know the truth. 00:28:05 When Jesus said that we should preach, 00:28:07 I think that he also would have put on a raincoat 00:28:10 and gone out to preach the good news. 00:28:13 We experience how Jehovah blesses our efforts when we go in the ministry. 00:28:18 And you especially feel it when you persist in your efforts 00:28:21 to preach when the weather isn’t good. 00:28:23 It may be that one day you have a really nice conversation 00:28:27 with a person about the Bible. 00:28:29 I also feel it gives me great joy. 00:28:32 Paul said that the one who “sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” 00:28:36 So if you want to sow bountifully in the Faroe Islands, 00:28:40 you need to preach also when the weather is bad. 00:28:42 And we feel that we have reaped bountifully 00:28:45 with nice return visits and Bible studies. 00:28:47 I feel it’s worth all the effort 00:28:49 because we see that people in the territory 00:28:52 really appreciate what they are learning. 00:28:54 All that we do in our ministry 00:28:56 is motivated by love for Jehovah 00:29:00 and the people in the territory, and it won’t be changed by bad weather. 00:29:04 It’s an opportunity to show that our worship is wholehearted. 00:29:08 You don’t just go in the ministry when everything is good 00:29:11 and the sun is shining. 00:29:15 I think we have become more enduring 00:29:17 and flexible in our ministry. 00:29:23 We saw that the publishers were fully supporting 00:29:27 the spirit that the elders showed 00:29:30 in sharing the good news 00:29:32 despite inclement weather. 00:29:36 Around the world, 00:29:38 many of our brothers face severe opposition 00:29:42 because of remaining loyal to Jehovah 00:29:46 and maintaining their Christian neutrality. 00:29:50 Let’s travel to Spain 00:29:52 and hear how some of our brothers 00:29:55 have dealt with these challenges firsthand. 00:30:01 Spain is a land of castles. 00:30:05 From the mountains of central Spain 00:30:07 to the Mediterranean coast, castles dominate the landscape. 00:30:13 But there is one castle —the Castle of Santa Catalina— 00:30:18 that played a unique part in the history of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Spain. 00:30:23 This castle that guards the entrance 00:30:27 to the harbor of Cádiz, in southern Spain, 00:30:29 became a military prison over two centuries ago. 00:30:33 And this fortress 00:30:35 tested the faith of around 300 Spanish Witnesses. 00:30:41 The battle began in the 1960’s when Spain was ruled 00:30:46 by General Franco, a military dictator. 00:30:49 Franco wanted all Spanish men to serve the fatherland, 00:30:54 and this meant military service. 00:30:58 But in Spain, there were Jehovah’s Witnesses 00:31:01 whose conscience said no. 00:31:03 So this castle became a battleground 00:31:06 where Franco’s military regime fought 00:31:09 to stamp out the Christian consciences of those young Witnesses. 00:31:16 But times have changed in Spain. 00:31:20 The city of Cádiz has organized an exhibition 00:31:22 to salute the sacrifice made by those valiant Witnesses. 00:31:28 Over 40 years after their release, 00:31:31 some of those conscientious objectors have returned to Cádiz 00:31:35 to attend this exhibition. 00:31:39 At the inauguration, 00:31:41 the mayor described them as citizens who spoke up 00:31:44 and who presented arguments against the injustice 00:31:47 —arguments based on peace, freedom, 00:31:50 and, above all, their conscience. 00:31:54 Those who spent years of their lives behind bars 00:31:57 have vivid memories 00:31:59 of the times when this castle was their prison. 00:32:05 I think one of the greatest challenges 00:32:07 was never knowing 00:32:09 if we would be granted our freedom. 00:32:13 Our first sentence 00:32:15 was for three years. 00:32:17 And since we still refused to enlist in the military, 00:32:21 we were then sentenced again for another lengthy period. 00:32:24 So it seemed as if we had a life sentence. 00:32:29 We organized daily activities 00:32:31 to keep us busy. 00:32:34 Mornings, we worked at our trades 00:32:38 to earn a little money. 00:32:40 Afternoons, we set aside for spiritual activities. 00:32:45 Our preaching was done mainly by writing letters. 00:32:51 And in this way, some of us could even pioneer. 00:32:55 A few people did reply to our letters, 00:32:58 and we were thrilled to hear that some of them accepted the truth. 00:33:04 Of course, we also preached to other prisoners, 00:33:08 and a few of them became baptized Witnesses. 00:33:12 We also studied the Bible thoroughly, 00:33:14 both individually and as a group, 00:33:16 which proved vital in building us up spiritually. 00:33:21 At first, we had to study our literature secretly, 00:33:24 but later the guards 00:33:27 allowed us to have the Bible and other publications. 00:33:31 As our numbers grew, 00:33:33 all the Witnesses were kept together 00:33:36 in the same place —in the same barracks— 00:33:38 so we could organize meetings. 00:33:43 We even held assemblies, including the Biblical dramas. 00:33:48 And we loved 00:33:50 singing Kingdom songs. 00:33:53 These songs really lifted up our spirits. 00:33:58 We really felt Jehovah’s loving care when the brothers came to visit us. 00:34:04 We even had a special visit from Brother Grant Suiter 00:34:08 of the Governing Body, 00:34:12 but there were also other visits that we really looked forward to. 00:34:17 Many of the brothers endured years of separation from their families 00:34:21 and fiancées. 00:34:23 This was a real test. 00:34:26 But these faithful sisters 00:34:27 wholeheartedly supported their neutral stand. 00:34:31 Those were years that molded me spiritually. 00:34:35 I studied the Bible as I had never done before. 00:34:39 I developed skills as a public speaker and as an overseer. 00:34:44 Above all, it was a time in my life 00:34:47 when I learned to rely totally on Jehovah. 00:34:51 Thanks to my fervent prayers, he became my closest friend 00:34:57 and he never let me down. 00:34:59 That was priceless. 00:35:02 The firm stand of those Witnesses 00:35:05 gave a powerful testimony in Cádiz and throughout Spain. 00:35:09 The run-down military prison 00:35:12 that once tested their faith 00:35:14 has been restored. 00:35:16 It is now a tourist attraction 00:35:18 and a cultural center. 00:35:21 But while the castle has changed, 00:35:23 the faith of those valiant Witnesses has not. 00:35:28 The castle certainly tested them, 00:35:30 but they fought a fine fight for the faith. 00:35:34 And with Jehovah’s help, they won the battle. 00:35:38 Forty years later, 00:35:40 their victory is still giving a witness 00:35:43 to Jehovah’s name. 00:35:49 As we noted earlier, 00:35:51 the apostle Paul said 00:35:54 that he was “being poured out like a drink offering.” 00:35:58 Similarly, by remaining neutral, 00:36:03 these brothers offered up a great sacrifice 00:36:06 of praise to Jehovah despite resistance. 00:36:10 And as we learned, by loyal endurance, 00:36:15 they went on to be “gifts in men” 00:36:17 to those in the congregations and circuits that they later served. 00:36:24 Other examples of “gifts in men” 00:36:27 are those who serve as headquarters representatives 00:36:31 visiting branch offices 00:36:34 and encouraging members of the Bethel families. 00:36:38 Brother Daniel Molchan had the privilege 00:36:42 to visit the countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. 00:36:47 They have had some exciting spiritual developments 00:36:51 in those lands. 00:36:55 On Sunday, February the 26th, 00:36:57 I traveled to Port-au-Prince for the branch visit 00:37:01 and was warmly welcomed by many of the Bethel family of 54 members. 00:37:06 The branch office supervises the preaching work 00:37:09 for more than 20,000 publishers. 00:37:13 Although Haiti has faced economic challenges 00:37:15 and suffered recent natural disasters, 00:37:17 our brothers are positive 00:37:20 and focus their attention on helping others to identify our Scriptural hope. 00:37:25 The Haitian people show a keen interest in the Word of God. 00:37:29 Our brothers average more than 42,000 Bible studies each month, 00:37:34 and Haiti enjoyed a Memorial attendance 00:37:36 of more than 86,000 in 2016. 00:37:39 This was four times more than the number of publishers in the branch territory. 00:37:44 The brothers love to use the videos in the ministry. 00:37:49 This is made possible by the Haiti audio/video team 00:37:51 translating the videos into their native language. 00:37:55 While many in Haiti speak French, 00:37:57 the common language of the people in general is Haitian Creole. 00:38:01 Creole is said to be 00:38:03 an expressive language that combines French words 00:38:06 with the grammar of West African languages. 00:38:09 The number of publishers in Haiti has quadrupled since the start 00:38:13 of Creole translation back in 1987. 00:38:17 The complete New World Translation Bible 00:38:20 was released in Creole in 2015. 00:38:23 We met with the translation team to commend them for the good work they do. 00:38:27 We reminded them of the many positive results 00:38:30 in the field ministry that have taken place 00:38:32 since translating the Bible and our literature into Creole. 00:38:36 As an example, Mirlène is a vendor of fruits and vegetables who was asked 00:38:41 if she would supply some of her produce to Bethel. 00:38:44 Although she was very impressed 00:38:46 the first time she arrived at the Bethel property, 00:38:49 she said she found the large steel gate to be intimidating. 00:38:54 So she prayed to God to protect her 00:38:56 while in the yard at Bethel. 00:38:58 The brothers dealt kindly with her when she made 00:39:00 her deliveries on Monday each week. 00:39:02 One of the brothers from the kitchen told her that maybe someday 00:39:05 she too would become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:39:08 She accepted an invitation to the Memorial, 00:39:11 and despite some personal challenges, such as not being able to read well, 00:39:14 she began to attend some congregation meetings. 00:39:17 Mirlène could see the difference 00:39:20 between Jehovah’s loving people and those in her church. 00:39:23 A study was started with her, 00:39:25 and she progressed to the point of baptism in 2009. 00:39:28 Since then, she has worked diligently 00:39:31 to teach the truth to her children with good results. 00:39:34 Her oldest son graduated from the School for Kingdom Evangelizers 00:39:39 and serves as an elder and temporary special pioneer. 00:39:42 Recently, another of her sons was appointed a ministerial servant, 00:39:47 and the four other children are unbaptized publishers. 00:39:52 Having our literature in Creole 00:39:54 and with the help of her children, she has improved her reading. 00:39:57 She now benefits from reading the Bible in Creole, 00:40:01 the language of her heart. 00:40:04 Good results are beginning to be seen 00:40:07 in the field of American Sign Language, which is now used in Haiti. 00:40:10 There are now 87 deaf publishers 00:40:14 in 4 ASL congregations and 8 groups. 00:40:17 The congregation here is singing praises to Jehovah. 00:40:22 Even our little sister is learning to do this. 00:40:28 This brother showed us the effort he puts forth 00:40:31 to prepare for a Bible reading. 00:40:34 A special program for Haiti was held 00:40:37 on Saturday morning at the open-air Assembly Hall 00:40:39 on the branch property. 00:40:41 A total of 1,405 were in attendance. 00:40:45 We were very encouraged to see 00:40:47 the group of our brothers who benefited from the program 00:40:49 in American Sign Language. 00:40:52 The program was recorded and presented at Kingdom Halls throughout the country 00:40:56 later that same day and also on Sunday 00:40:59 to a combined audience of 34,812. 00:41:04 We felt a little sad to leave the brothers on Sunday morning 00:41:07 for a drive of about six hours or so 00:41:09 to the Dominican Republic 00:41:11 for the second branch visit. 00:41:15 En route, we traveled through some semiarid areas 00:41:18 to the border between the two countries. 00:41:21 The terrain varied greatly as we drove through small mountains, 00:41:24 rich agricultural regions, and along the Caribbean Sea. 00:41:29 We took the opportunity to witness to some individuals at the border 00:41:33 and at various checkpoints, leaving literature along the way. 00:41:39 Upon entering the city of Santo Domingo, 00:41:41 we quickly identified the large JW.ORG sign at the branch office. 00:41:46 We were enthusiastically greeted 00:41:49 by many of the 73 Bethel family members. 00:41:53 Although the preaching work is done primarily in Spanish, 00:41:56 our brothers are expanding their ministry 00:41:59 to reach the language of the hearts of many peoples and cultures. 00:42:03 There are now 5 Haitian Creole circuits in the branch territory, 00:42:06 26 American Sign Language congregations, 00:42:09 and other congregations or groups 00:42:11 in Russian, Chinese, Italian and French. 00:42:15 We joined a group of brothers and sisters in the field ministry 00:42:18 in the Chinatown district of Santo Domingo. 00:42:22 Our group gave a witness to both Spanish- 00:42:24 and Chinese-speaking people on the streets 00:42:26 —most of whom respectfully listened to our message. 00:42:32 A Bethel brother, Evan, told us of the challenge 00:42:35 he faced when learning the truth. 00:42:39 I was finishing medical school 00:42:41 while serving in the Dominican army. 00:42:43 By then I had been serving for six years. 00:42:46 At my aunt’s home, I found the Revelation book. 00:42:51 It made such an impact on me, 00:42:54 that I stole it and read it all on my own. 00:42:58 There’s a vision in chapter 6 of Revelation, 00:43:01 where the sixth seal is opened 00:43:03 and the skies darken and the army commanders hide in caves. 00:43:08 That vision impressed me so much 00:43:10 that I decided to serve Jehovah. 00:43:13 That meant that I would have to leave the army 00:43:16 because Witnesses are neutral. 00:43:20 I quickly decided to talk to my immediate commander 00:43:22 to ask him to please discharge me from the army. 00:43:26 However, he rejected my request and said: 00:43:29 “No, you have served in the army for six years. 00:43:33 You have to stay in the army.” 00:43:35 I was not concerned because I could still appeal 00:43:38 to the colonel in charge of personnel. 00:43:40 However, my request for resignation was rejected again. 00:43:43 I left and went into the hallway. 00:43:45 I prayed to Jehovah: 00:43:47 “I want to serve you. 00:43:48 “What should I do? 00:43:50 Help me find a way out of this!” 00:43:52 When I opened my eyes, another army officer approached 00:43:55 and greeted me using my name. 00:43:57 I still don’t know who he was. 00:43:59 He asked me, “What do you need?” 00:44:02 I explained that I wanted to resign in order to become a Jehovah’s Witness. 00:44:06 He said: “Don’t worry, give me your papers. 00:44:09 I’m the colonel’s assistant.” 00:44:11 Within 20 minutes, my discharge papers were ready and approved. 00:44:16 In a short period of time, I became a publisher 00:44:18 and I got baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:44:21 At this time, I have been serving happily in Bethel 00:44:23 for over 11 years with my wife, Jael. 00:44:29 Without a doubt, Jehovah helps those who put their complete trust in him. 00:44:34 The branch is blessed to have as part of their Bethel family 00:44:37 some who had been longtime missionaries. 00:44:40 I enjoyed a very pleasant visit 00:44:42 with five of the senior members of this group 00:44:45 —three of whom are 98 years of age. 00:44:48 Brother William Dingman is of the first class of Gilead. 00:44:52 His wife, Estelle, attended the 12th class. 00:44:55 Thelma Critz is also of the 12th class. 00:44:58 Barbara Parker is of the 42nd class, 00:45:02 and Helen Ferrari attended the 2nd class of Gilead. 00:45:05 To illustrate the length of their full-time service 00:45:08 is the fact that Sister Ferrari 00:45:10 is among those who stood up to identify themselves 00:45:13 as part of the great multitude 00:45:16 at the 1935 convention in Washington, D.C. 00:45:20 The average age of this group is 94. 00:45:24 Even more impressive 00:45:26 is that their average years of full-time service is 73. 00:45:29 These faithful ones set a fine example 00:45:32 continuing to be active in the ministry 00:45:35 —taking into account their ages and health limitations. 00:45:38 Such loyal servants of Jehovah are considered 00:45:40 spiritual treasures wherever they may serve. 00:45:43 I still have one study so far, 00:45:46 although my eyesight doesn’t allow 00:45:48 me to do too much. 00:45:49 But I try. 00:45:51 My legs aren’t so good for walking, 00:45:54 so they wheel me around. 00:45:58 In all of my life, I would consider 00:46:01 the life that I have spent as a missionary 00:46:05 and in Dominican Republic as well 00:46:08 —it’s a wonderful life. 00:46:12 I couldn’t have chosen 00:46:15 a better companion 00:46:18 and also a better life 00:46:21 than to be preaching 00:46:23 the message of the good news of the Kingdom. 00:46:26 The Dominican Republic Bethel family 00:46:28 considers it a privilege to have a share in providing 00:46:31 care for such faithful ones. 00:46:34 On Sunday, March the 12th, a special program was held 00:46:38 at the open-air Assembly Hall adjacent to the branch office. 00:46:42 A total of 3,050 benefited 00:46:45 from the spiritual program and Christian association. 00:46:48 The visits to the Dominican Republic and Haiti branches 00:46:52 proved to be an encouragement and a spiritual blessing 00:46:54 to all who participated in them. 00:46:58 We thank Brother Molchan for that report 00:47:02 and for sharing those motivating experiences 00:47:06 of longtime servants of Jehovah. 00:47:10 Another example of this are Richard and Peggy Kelsey. 00:47:16 How has he, with the support of his dear wife, 00:47:21 proved to be one of the “gifts in men” 00:47:23 throughout his decades of full-time service? 00:47:31 I was born in a little town 00:47:34 called Adair, Iowa 00:47:36 —actually out on the farm— 00:47:38 and that was in 1930. 00:47:42 I was born in 1931, 00:47:44 also in a small town in Iowa. 00:47:47 My father wanted to be a farmer. 00:47:50 So we moved to a farm, and I grew up on a farm. 00:47:53 And then the Watchtower Study of a little group, 00:47:56 and then a little congregation was in our home. 00:47:59 And happily, when Peggy’s father came into the truth, 00:48:04 the family came to our place to the Watchtower Study. 00:48:08 I was—I guess at that time— eight or nine, 00:48:13 and Peggy was one year younger. 00:48:16 But the thing was, they moved away just after about one year. 00:48:22 Well, I started pioneering in September 1948. 00:48:27 Gilead was what I wanted. 00:48:29 I didn’t apply for Bethel 00:48:32 because I liked the field service, 00:48:34 and I thought South America, Africa, 00:48:36 countries where there is still so much to do 00:48:39 —that’s what I wanted. 00:48:42 I was called to Gilead 00:48:45 in 1951, in February. 00:48:50 The assignment after attending Gilead 00:48:54 was a great surprise. 00:48:56 Brother Schroeder, one of the instructors, 00:49:00 he said: “You will have 00:49:02 “a very wonderful opportunity, 00:49:05 “being assigned to the German Bethel. 00:49:08 “There are brothers there 00:49:09 “who have been in concentration camps for up to nine years, 00:49:14 and you can learn very much from these brothers.” 00:49:18 And that was very true. 00:49:23 In 1953, at the convention in New York, 00:49:26 I saw a beautiful young sister 00:49:30 standing in the cafeteria line next to my cafeteria line. 00:49:34 And I looked twice, 00:49:36 and it was Peggy. 00:49:38 So we were together for the rest of the convention 00:49:41 and decided that we would correspond and think about serving together. 00:49:45 In 1955 we married. 00:49:51 I had received the assignment to circuit work. 00:49:55 We were assigned to northern Germany. 00:49:58 When we began circuit work, I was 24. 00:50:01 I felt completely inadequate 00:50:04 because I’d been serving in Bethel 00:50:07 and had no training 00:50:10 that would qualify me to serve as a circuit overseer 00:50:15 —that was my feeling. 00:50:17 In the first place, the sisters with me always got nervous 00:50:21 with me not being able to speak correctly. 00:50:24 So they would take over the conversation, 00:50:27 and I stood there and didn’t understand anything. 00:50:30 But with time, you pick it up. 00:50:33 After two years, I could understand everything 00:50:36 in the theocratic language, 00:50:38 but in the kitchen I was still lost. 00:50:41 It was nine years for circuit work and, at the conclusion, district work. 00:50:46 And then we were called back into Bethel. 00:50:52 The biggest shock for me 00:50:55 was when Brother Knorr asked me 00:50:58 if I would be branch overseer. 00:51:02 And that was at the convention 00:51:05 of 1969 in Nuremberg. 00:51:08 And despite different arguments that I presented, 00:51:12 I got a letter later saying that I’d have that assignment. 00:51:17 For about 40 years, 00:51:19 we had the wonderful privilege of doing zone work or, 00:51:23 as it’s now stated, being representative of headquarters. 00:51:28 So it was wonderful to visit 00:51:31 somewhat over 90 different countries. 00:51:34 We became acquainted with Jehovah’s lovely family 00:51:39 —the worldwide brotherhood, the unity, 00:51:41 and seeing how the brothers everywhere 00:51:44 are devoted to Jehovah 00:51:46 and want to serve him faithfully 00:51:49 under sometimes very difficult conditions. 00:51:52 I would say, sometimes we benefited more 00:51:56 from the visit than the brothers we were visiting 00:52:00 because it was so faith-strengthening. 00:52:04 When we got this privilege 00:52:07 of traveling to many branches in the zone work, 00:52:11 we were able to engage in the field ministry 00:52:15 in numerous countries, 00:52:18 which I never would have had, of course, 00:52:21 if I would have just gone into missionary service. 00:52:23 So I said to myself, 00:52:26 ‘Accept every assignment Jehovah gives you 00:52:30 and you’ll find that you have the greatest blessings possible.’ 00:52:34 Since the 1st of January 1952, 00:52:38 I’ve been able to keep full-time service as my career. 00:52:42 And it’s something I certainly wouldn’t have changed 00:52:44 for anything else. 00:52:46 We have often said, 00:52:48 “Where would we be today if we hadn’t taken up full-time service?” 00:52:53 Certainly, we would not have enjoyed 00:52:55 so many things as we have in our lifetime. 00:53:00 There are so many young, talented brothers and sisters 00:53:05 who are working and helping. 00:53:07 We encourage them to make full-time service 00:53:11 in Jehovah’s organization their goal in life. 00:53:18 Are you one of those young, talented brothers or sisters 00:53:22 who Brother Kelsey mentioned could make full-time service a goal? 00:53:28 If so, keep it in your prayers. 00:53:34 Yes, as we look back at our program 00:53:37 and the examples of various “gifts in men,” 00:53:41 their wives, 00:53:43 and numerous others doing all they can for Jehovah, 00:53:47 what is it that motivates them 00:53:51 to live such self-sacrificing lives? 00:53:55 Love. 00:53:57 And that’s the theme of this month’s music video 00:54:01 entitled Brotherly Love. 00:54:18 Wherever you go, you will have fam’ly near. 00:54:23 Because wherever you go, Jehovah’s people are there. 00:54:29 And you’ll feel love. 00:54:32 You’ll feel love, A brotherly love. 00:54:40 So feel the love. 00:54:47 Brothers and sisters all over the world Unite with Jehovah and follow his Son 00:54:58 To bring you love— A nation of, 00:55:03 Of brotherly love. So feel the love. 00:55:21 Our Father provides for us all— No one left over. 00:55:39 Deep in the jungle or on mountains high, 00:55:44 In big, modern cities or on islands afar, 00:55:50 You belong. You belong to the people of God. 00:56:01 So feel the love. 00:56:13 Our Father provides for us all— No, no one left over. 00:56:31 But in the world, it can be cold— A scary place, truth to be told. 00:56:42 So how wonderful it is to know The one true God and his people! 00:56:57 Jesus, he taught his disciples to love. 00:57:02 So millions of people, as a nation, they show 00:57:08 Jehovah’s love— And you belong among all of them. 00:57:19 So feel the love. 00:57:31 So feel the love. 00:57:41 What a beautiful song 00:57:44 and a good reminder that one way 00:57:48 we can show our love to Jehovah and Jesus 00:57:51 is by showing love, respect, and appreciation 00:57:56 for the “gifts in men” they have generously given us. 00:58:02 Now, before we end the program, 00:58:06 we have a special treat. 00:58:09 Our postcard this month comes from right here 00:58:14 at our JW Broadcasting studio. 00:58:17 Yes, you get a sneak peek behind the scenes 00:58:21 of how our broadcast is produced. 00:58:24 First, a group of brothers and sisters 00:58:27 set aside their regular Bethel work for parts of three days. 00:58:32 Early on the first day, 00:58:34 the director reviews the “shot list” with crew members. 00:58:38 The “shot list” is a series of photographs 00:58:41 showing how the cameras will record each scene. 00:58:46 In the control room, media is prepared for display 00:58:50 on the studio’s video screen. 00:58:53 The microphones and cameras are all properly adjusted. 00:58:58 Then the crew rehearses the entire program several times 00:59:02 while a stand-in substitutes for the program host. 00:59:07 This allows the real host to concentrate on his other work 00:59:11 during these technical rehearsals. 00:59:14 On the third day, the actual host reports 00:59:17 to the studio’s makeup room, 00:59:20 where wardrobe makes sure that he looks his best. 00:59:24 Before recording begins, 00:59:27 the crew assembles for a brief meeting. 00:59:30 The host often gives a few brief comments, 00:59:33 and the floor director gives any final instruction to the crew. 00:59:38 After a prayer, everyone takes their positions. 00:59:41 Within a few hours, 00:59:44 the entire recording for that month’s program is completed. 00:59:49 Yes, our hardworking brothers and sisters that work in the studio 00:59:54 happily send you their warm love and greetings. 01:00:00 This is JW Broadcasting 01:00:05 from the world headquarters 01:00:07 of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
00:00:01 We warmly welcome all of you 00:00:04 to this month’s broadcast. 00:00:08 Here is just a taste 00:00:10 of what we can look forward to on the program. 00:00:14 A life spent in the full-time ministry 00:00:18 is both exciting and challenging. 00:00:20 We’ll meet a brother and his wife 00:00:22 who have spent decades in various forms of this service. 00:00:26 What lessons can we learn from their experiences? 00:00:31 Then we’ll hear the story of a woman 00:00:33 who struggled for years with severe drug addiction. 00:00:38 What would help her eventually break free? 00:00:42 And our new music video 00:00:44 will help us feel the brotherly love we enjoy 00:00:49 as a part of Jehovah’s organization. 00:00:53 There’s certainly plenty to enjoy 00:00:55 on this August 2018 edition 00:01:00 of JW Broadcasting. 00:01:21 The theme for this month’s program is 00:01:25 “Appreciating Our ‘Gifts in Men.’” 00:01:31 Who of us does not enjoy being given 00:01:34 a fine, well-chosen gift? 00:01:37 For example, you brothers, 00:01:39 do you not take pleasure in receiving 00:01:42 a colorful but tasteful, 00:01:45 100 percent silk tie? 00:01:48 Or, you sisters, do you not delight in being given 00:01:51 an exquisite, charming silk scarf? 00:01:55 But what if you took that silk tie 00:01:58 or silk scarf 00:02:01 and used it to polish your shoes? 00:02:04 How do you think the giver of your gift would feel 00:02:08 if he saw you using his gift in that way? 00:02:12 Obviously, it would be misuse 00:02:15 and disrespect for the gift and would insult the giver. 00:02:20 What is the point of our illustration? 00:02:24 Well, Jehovah and Jesus have given us 00:02:28 a fine, well-chosen gift in the form of the elders. 00:02:33 But as we will discuss, 00:02:36 all of us must make sure 00:02:38 that we always show appreciation and respect 00:02:43 for this divine provision. 00:02:46 Please turn to Ephesians 4:8, 00:02:51 and let’s read about this gift 00:02:55 that Jehovah and Jesus have given us. 00:02:59 It reads: 00:03:01 “For it says: 00:03:03 “‘When he ascended on high 00:03:06 “‘he carried away captives; 00:03:09 he gave gifts in men.’” 00:03:12 You notice, by means of Jesus’ perfect integrity, 00:03:17 Jesus conquered Satan and his world. 00:03:21 As a world conqueror, 00:03:23 figuratively He has plundered captives 00:03:27 and has given them as gifts to the congregations. 00:03:32 How useful are these “gifts in men”? 00:03:35 Well, please look at verses 11 and 12 for the answer: 00:03:40 “And he gave some as apostles, 00:03:42 “some as prophets, 00:03:45 “some as evangelizers, 00:03:47 “some as shepherds and teachers, 00:03:50 “with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, 00:03:55 “for ministerial work, 00:03:57 to build up the body of the Christ.” 00:04:01 Notice, they would be “evangelizers” 00:04:05 —taking the lead 00:04:07 in the all-important preaching and disciple-making work. 00:04:11 They do not simply say to the publishers, 00:04:13 “Go in the preaching work.” 00:04:17 They say: “Come. Come with us. 00:04:21 Let’s work together in this never-to-be-repeated work.” 00:04:26 They’re also “shepherds” 00:04:28 —protecting the flock from Satan 00:04:31 the “murderer,” “serpent,” “dragon,” and “lion.” 00:04:35 Additionally, they are “teachers” 00:04:38 —feeding the flock with nourishing spiritual food. 00:04:43 But now we ask, 00:04:45 How does Jehovah tell us 00:04:47 that we should feel about these hardworking “gifts in men”? 00:04:51 Let’s go to 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, 00:04:55 and let’s get the answer. 00:04:58 At 1 Thessalonians chapter 5, 00:05:00 beginning in verse number 12, 00:05:04 notice what Jehovah says: 00:05:06 “Now we request you, brothers, 00:05:09 “to show respect 00:05:12 “for those who are working hard among you 00:05:15 “and presiding over you in the Lord 00:05:18 “and admonishing you; 00:05:21 “and to give them extraordinary consideration 00:05:25 “in love because of their work. 00:05:28 Be peaceable with one another.” 00:05:33 Notice, we’re told to “show respect” 00:05:37 for these dear brothers. 00:05:39 But now, let’s move to a vital question, 00:05:43 How can we show, demonstrate, 00:05:47 that we do deeply respect 00:05:50 and appreciate these dear brothers? 00:05:53 The first way: 00:05:55 by wholeheartedly cooperating with them. 00:05:59 Please turn to Hebrews 13:17, 00:06:05 and this scripture describes how deep 00:06:08 our cooperation should be, verse 17: 00:06:13 “Be obedient 00:06:15 “to those who are taking the lead among you 00:06:19 “and be submissive, 00:06:22 “for they are keeping watch over you 00:06:25 “as those who will render an account, 00:06:28 “so that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, 00:06:32 for this would be damaging to you.” 00:06:36 Notice, we are told to “be obedient.” 00:06:41 Clearly, this means that we’re supposed to comply with, 00:06:44 or obey, what they tell us. 00:06:47 Of course, that would be with the proviso: 00:06:50 unless they tell us to do something that is unscriptural. 00:06:53 And, of course, that would be extremely rare. 00:06:57 We’re also told to “be submissive.” 00:07:01 This includes the attitude 00:07:04 with which we’re to be obedient 00:07:06 —doing so with a yielding, positive attitude. 00:07:12 Would it be possible to be obedient 00:07:15 but not submissive? 00:07:17 Well, what if we said: 00:07:19 “OK. I’ll do what the elders suggest. 00:07:24 I don’t want to do it, but I’ll do it.” 00:07:29 We would be obedient but not submissive. 00:07:33 However, Jehovah tells us 00:07:36 to display both of these qualities. 00:07:39 We should be obedient and submissive 00:07:42 even if what the elders are asking us to do 00:07:46 is not the best, most efficient way to do something. 00:07:50 Permit me to illustrate this point. 00:07:53 Admittedly, the illustration is somewhat exaggerated, 00:07:58 but hopefully it will make the point. 00:08:01 Please imagine that the elders decide 00:08:05 that the outside of the Kingdom Hall 00:08:07 needs to be painted and that all the publishers 00:08:11 will be given a small two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush 00:08:15 with which to paint. 00:08:17 Now, what could happen? 00:08:19 The publishers could get all upset 00:08:22 concerning this request of the elders, 00:08:24 saying, “It is ridiculous that the elders want us 00:08:29 to paint with a small two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush!” 00:08:32 Consequently, some could start campaigning 00:08:36 for the right for everyone to use a six-inch (15 cm) paintbrush. 00:08:41 Others might campaign for using paint rollers 00:08:46 to roll the paint on the Kingdom Hall. 00:08:49 Still others might start trying to build support 00:08:53 for renting and using a paint sprayer 00:08:57 to spray the paint on the Kingdom Hall. 00:09:00 In another camp, ones might champion the idea 00:09:04 of hiring out to a contractor 00:09:06 the painting of the Kingdom Hall, 00:09:09 while another group is promoting the idea 00:09:13 that the Kingdom Hall doesn’t even need to be painted. 00:09:17 Now, what would be the outcome? 00:09:20 The congregation would be divided, 00:09:23 the Kingdom Hall would never get painted, 00:09:26 publishers could end up stumbled right out of the truth, 00:09:30 the elders would be very discouraged, 00:09:33 Jehovah would be sad, 00:09:35 and Satan would be made very happy. 00:09:40 On the other hand, 00:09:42 what if everyone humbly supported the elders, perhaps thinking: 00:09:47 ‘There’s no scripture 00:09:49 ‘that says we can’t paint with a two-inch (5 cm) paintbrush. 00:09:53 ‘In fact, Hebrews 13:17 tells us 00:09:57 ‘to “be obedient” and “submissive” to the elders. 00:10:01 So why don’t we go ahead and support the elders?’ 00:10:04 Now what would be the outcome? 00:10:08 The Kingdom Hall would get painted, 00:10:11 the publishers would get to enjoy 00:10:13 a lot of good association 00:10:15 because they’d be working together for a long time, 00:10:20 the elders would be very encouraged, 00:10:23 Satan would be sad, 00:10:26 and Jehovah’s heart would be made glad. 00:10:31 Well, what is the point of this hyperbole illustration? 00:10:36 Being obedient and submissive to those taking the lead 00:10:41 is much more important than how something is done. 00:10:45 That is the attitude 00:10:47 that Jehovah will richly bless. 00:10:50 But, now, a second way we can demonstrate 00:10:54 that we deeply appreciate these dear brothers 00:10:57 is to pray for them. 00:11:00 Please note what the elder Paul urged 00:11:04 the brothers to do for him 00:11:06 at Romans 15:30. 00:11:11 Here Paul said: 00:11:13 “Now I urge you, brothers, 00:11:17 “through our Lord Jesus Christ 00:11:20 “and through the love of the spirit, 00:11:23 “that you exert yourselves with me 00:11:26 in prayers to God for me.” 00:11:31 Paul recognized 00:11:34 the power that he would derive 00:11:36 as a result of others praying for him, 00:11:40 and your local elders feel the same way. 00:11:44 But the question is, 00:11:46 In your personal, private prayers, 00:11:49 do you regularly thank Jehovah 00:11:52 for your “gifts in men” and entreat Jehovah 00:11:54 to richly supply them with his powerful holy spirit? 00:11:59 Our answer to that question can reveal much 00:12:04 about our appreciation for these hardworking elders. 00:12:09 Now let’s move to a third way 00:12:12 that we can demonstrate deep appreciation: 00:12:16 We can do so by commending the elders. 00:12:21 Here is a soul-searching question: 00:12:24 Do you periodically go up 00:12:26 to various elders and say something like, 00:12:30 “Brother Elder, 00:12:32 “we just want to thank you for your hard work. 00:12:35 Please be assured that we appreciate it”? 00:12:39 However, it seems 00:12:42 that some publishers never ever commend the elders 00:12:46 or express appreciation. 00:12:49 Might this not indicate that we are taking them 00:12:53 and their hard work for granted? 00:12:55 Of course, they will not quit if you do not give them commendation; 00:12:59 they primarily do their work for Jehovah. 00:13:03 But if you do express appreciation, 00:13:06 believe me, it will be most encouraging to them. 00:13:11 And even though it may really surprise the elder 00:13:15 the very first time you do this, 00:13:17 please do not hold back 00:13:19 this “good from those to whom it is owing.” 00:13:24 Appropriately, 00:13:26 Jehovah tells us at Proverbs 3:27: 00:13:30 “Do not withhold good from those to whom you should give it 00:13:35 if it is within your power to help.” 00:13:40 And one thing that will move us to be more aware 00:13:43 of commending the elders is to remember all the good work they are doing. 00:13:48 Many elders are family men 00:13:51 who must work secularly to provide for their families. 00:13:55 If he has children, 00:13:57 these young ones need time and attention from their father. 00:14:02 He may need to help them with their schoolwork 00:14:05 as well as schedule time for them 00:14:07 to enjoy wholesome recreation. 00:14:11 Most important, he cares for the spiritual needs of his family 00:14:16 —regularly conducting family worship, 00:14:19 working with them in the ministry, 00:14:21 and taking them to meetings. 00:14:24 But in addition to these numerous responsibilities 00:14:27 common to many of us, 00:14:30 they have voluminous additional responsibilities 00:14:33 as elders. 00:14:35 And much of the elders’ hard work 00:14:37 in our behalf is not seen by the congregation. 00:14:42 For example, you may see 00:14:44 an elder giving a part on the meeting. 00:14:46 What you didn’t see 00:14:48 are the hours he spent preparing that part. 00:14:52 How long does it take you 00:14:55 to prepare a student assignment 00:14:58 on the midweek meeting? 00:15:00 Some elders have a part every week, 00:15:03 sometimes more than one. 00:15:05 While gaining experience in speaking is certainly helpful, 00:15:10 the fact remains 00:15:12 that good talks require hard work. 00:15:17 But that is not all that the elders do. 00:15:20 They have shepherding calls to make 00:15:23 and judicial cases to handle. 00:15:26 Some elders are also busy helping to build Kingdom Halls 00:15:30 and branch facilities, 00:15:32 serving on Hospital Liaison Committees, 00:15:35 volunteering at assemblies and conventions 00:15:38 —and elders do many other things 00:15:41 that are too numerous to recount. 00:15:45 What we see is often only the tip of the iceberg 00:15:50 —90 percent of an iceberg 00:15:53 is unseen underwater. 00:15:56 At 2 Timothy 4:6, 00:16:00 the apostle Paul referred to himself 00:16:03 as “being poured out like a drink offering.” 00:16:08 A drink offering 00:16:10 was poured on the altar and went up in smoke. 00:16:14 That well describes how the elders likewise 00:16:18 expend themselves. 00:16:21 Remembering all of this should move us 00:16:25 to regularly offer sincere commendation 00:16:29 to our hardworking elders. 00:16:32 Now we have discussed ways 00:16:35 that we can demonstrate 00:16:37 that we deeply appreciate our “gifts in men.” 00:16:42 We should (1) wholeheartedly cooperate with them, 00:16:48 (2) pray for them, 00:16:51 and (3) commend them. 00:16:54 Thereby we will prove 00:16:56 that we are not even slightly like 00:16:59 an unappreciative recipient of a silk tie or a silk scarf, 00:17:04 who uses that gift to polish his shoes. 00:17:08 To the contrary, 00:17:10 we will prove to Jehovah and Jesus 00:17:13 that we love, respect, 00:17:16 and appreciate 00:17:18 the divine gifts —our “gifts in men”— 00:17:21 that they have so generously given to us! 00:17:28 But, now, what effect can these “gifts in men” 00:17:32 have on individuals who have strayed from Jehovah 00:17:36 and his organization? 00:17:39 What actions show that they are loving shepherds 00:17:42 who want to assist these ones to return to Jehovah 00:17:47 despite serious struggles or even addictions? 00:17:52 Let’s look for those answers in the following story. 00:17:58 ‘Turn your life around, 00:18:01 ‘so that seasons of refreshing 00:18:03 may come from Jehovah himself.’ 00:18:07 Those words changed my life, 00:18:09 and they saved the life of my little girl. 00:18:13 I was raised in a Witness family. 00:18:19 But I chose 00:18:23 a dark underworld 00:18:26 of practically everything that Jehovah hates. 00:18:30 After about 15 years, 00:18:33 although financially secure, 00:18:36 I was confronted with the failure that my life had become. 00:18:45 I was trying to raise a child while addicted to drugs. 00:18:51 I just didn’t want to live like that anymore, 00:18:54 and I wanted to be a good mother. 00:18:57 So for the first time in years, 00:19:00 I prayed to Jehovah. 00:19:04 The knock came on my door the very next day. 00:19:12 I began studying with a vengeance. 00:19:17 I had 15 years to catch up on. 00:19:21 I had a lot of help. 00:19:25 I progressively changed my lifestyle, 00:19:27 I changed my associates, 00:19:30 and I conquered my addiction. 00:19:32 I slowly began to overcome 00:19:35 feelings of worthlessness. 00:19:39 So none of these changes were easy to make, 00:19:42 but it made me feel 00:19:44 clean and happy 00:19:45 knowing that Jehovah was pleased. 00:19:48 My burning desire at that point really was to begin sharing 00:19:51 with other people what I was learning, 00:19:54 but I didn’t qualify to engage in the public ministry 00:19:58 because I was still living with my boyfriend at the time. 00:20:02 And he didn’t understand some of the changes I was making. 00:20:05 I was determined 00:20:07 to turn my life around and overcome this last hurdle 00:20:11 that was preventing me from serving Jehovah fully. 00:20:17 Two weeks later, 00:20:19 I found out I was pregnant. 00:20:22 I was devastated. 00:20:25 I didn’t know what all those people who had helped me would think 00:20:29 and how Jehovah felt about what was happening. 00:20:35 I was so ashamed. 00:20:38 I actually blamed Jehovah for letting it happen. 00:20:42 I was so confused. 00:20:45 My first inclination 00:20:47 was just to get an abortion. 00:20:51 But deep down, I knew that was wrong. 00:20:54 I thought, ‘Now everyone will know 00:20:57 ‘that I’m still the worthless person 00:20:59 that I always knew I was.’ 00:21:03 At that point, I just felt like giving up. 00:21:07 I told my aunt and uncle, 00:21:10 who are Jehovah’s Witnesses, about my situation. 00:21:14 They didn’t judge me at all, 00:21:16 but they did offer a curious suggestion: 00:21:19 They invited me up to Bethel for a visit. 00:21:23 They introduced me to an elder who was very kind, 00:21:26 and I talked to him about my situation. 00:21:29 I was shocked 00:21:31 by how loving he was. 00:21:34 So he shared with me Acts 3:19. 00:21:38 “Repent, therefore, and turn around 00:21:42 “so as to get your sins blotted out, 00:21:45 “that seasons of refreshing 00:21:47 may come from the person of Jehovah.” 00:21:51 Well, he told me 00:21:53 I had already sinned, but why should I sin a second time? 00:21:57 Why should this innocent child pay 00:21:59 for what I had done wrong? 00:22:01 He suggested I teach my baby 00:22:04 about Jehovah and raise the child up 00:22:07 to know Him and have a friendship with Him. 00:22:11 I loved that he took something that was 00:22:15 sad and depressing for me 00:22:18 and turned it into something beautiful. 00:22:20 Well, I had a new plan now. 00:22:22 I was really determined to do everything I had to do 00:22:25 to turn my life around in order to please Jehovah. 00:22:28 So eventually I qualified to become an unbaptized publisher, 00:22:32 and later I was baptized in 2010. 00:22:36 I gave birth to a healthy baby girl. 00:22:40 I already dedicated my life to Jehovah. 00:22:43 So two of my goals are to get baptized and pioneer. 00:22:47 I’m as determined as ever to raise Jolie up to love Jehovah 00:22:52 and to avoid the traps that almost cost us our lives. 00:23:01 Describing our elders, 00:23:04 Isaiah 32:2 reads: 00:23:08 “And each one will be like a hiding place from the wind, 00:23:13 “a place of concealment from the rainstorm, 00:23:18 “like streams of water in a waterless land, 00:23:22 “like the shadow of a massive crag 00:23:26 in a parched land.” 00:23:29 Did you note two key ways our “gifts in men” did that? 00:23:35 One, the elder she met at Bethel 00:23:39 was kind and approachable. 00:23:42 He made her feel comfortable to express herself. 00:23:46 Two, he lovingly used the Bible 00:23:51 to help her make a wise decision and avoid further calamity. 00:23:56 This is an excellent example 00:23:59 of how elders can help ones who are struggling spiritually. 00:24:06 But in what other ways can elders be an example? 00:24:11 In their zeal for the ministry. 00:24:14 But what if weather conditions in our territory make this difficult? 00:24:19 When the elders take the lead, 00:24:22 the rest of the congregation responds in the same way. 00:24:28 The example of those preaching in the Faroe Islands 00:24:32 will offer some encouraging tips. 00:24:47 The Faroe Islands are also called the Land of Maybe. 00:24:51 The weather is very diverse and can rapidly change. 00:24:57 So when you begin in the ministry, the weather can be sunny. 00:25:00 And then ten minutes later, you find yourself 00:25:03 in a massive rain shower and everything gets wet. 00:25:07 Wind is another challenge. 00:25:09 We have some severe winter storms. 00:25:11 So you have to be careful that your service partner or the car door 00:25:15 doesn’t blow away while you’re getting out of the car. 00:25:20 We make sure to wear clothes appropriate for the weather. 00:25:25 And also to stay updated on the weather situation 00:25:29 and see where in our territory the weather is most suitable, and then adapt. 00:25:34 If the weather is nice, then we try to go from house to house. 00:25:38 And if the weather is bad, 00:25:40 then you can go on calls where you can go inside, 00:25:42 meaning where they will invite you in 00:25:45 or where the entrance is covered. 00:25:48 And you can plan your ministry so that if the weather gets bad, 00:25:50 you can make visits that you know will be at home that time of day. 00:25:56 When the weather is poor, it’s good to adjust. 00:25:59 Maybe you can do some telephone witnessing or letter writing. 00:26:03 At a meeting for pioneers, 00:26:05 an elder reminded us that when the weather is bad, 00:26:08 try not to think: ‘The weather is bad again,’ 00:26:11 but instead, ‘Yay! Now people are actually at home.’ 00:26:16 It is a good idea to have a plan for whom you’d like to visit 00:26:20 and what you’d like to talk to them about 00:26:22 because then when it rains or the weather isn’t ideal, 00:26:25 you focus on your plan 00:26:27 instead of thinking that now I have been out preaching 00:26:30 for five hours in stormy weather. 00:26:33 I think Ecclesiastes 11:4 applies quite well to our territory: 00:26:38 “The one who watches the wind will not sow seed, 00:26:42 and the one who looks at the clouds will not reap.” 00:26:45 If we have to wait for the perfect weather conditions to preach, 00:26:50 then we wouldn’t be out that often. 00:26:52 Something else that helps us to endure bad weather 00:26:54 is to think of the first publishers in the Faroe Islands. 00:26:58 They fought with seasickness, bad weather, 00:27:01 and they had to hike over the mountains to visit remote settlements. 00:27:04 They overcame these obstacles, 00:27:07 and it motivates me to overcome the challenges I am facing today. 00:27:11 I remember when we came to the Faroe Islands, 00:27:14 I looked out the window and thought,‘Is it even possible 00:27:17 to go out in the ministry in this kind of weather?’ 00:27:20 And then we arrived at the meeting for field service, 00:27:23 and the friends with children and strollers were there 00:27:26 and were positive and ready for field service. 00:27:28 It made me think that if they can do it, then I can too. 00:27:34 So we are a team of publishers, and we have the weather as our challenge. 00:27:39 And especially when the weather is bad, we encourage one another. 00:27:45 We really like the song “The Life of a Pioneer.” 00:27:49 It’s an amazing song. 00:27:51 It says: “In the work we endure, whether sunshine or rain.” 00:27:55 It’s because we love Jehovah. 00:27:59 We really want people to get to know Jehovah. 00:28:02 They need to know the truth. 00:28:05 When Jesus said that we should preach, 00:28:07 I think that he also would have put on a raincoat 00:28:10 and gone out to preach the good news. 00:28:13 We experience how Jehovah blesses our efforts when we go in the ministry. 00:28:18 And you especially feel it when you persist in your efforts 00:28:21 to preach when the weather isn’t good. 00:28:23 It may be that one day you have a really nice conversation 00:28:27 with a person about the Bible. 00:28:29 I also feel it gives me great joy. 00:28:32 Paul said that the one who “sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” 00:28:36 So if you want to sow bountifully in the Faroe Islands, 00:28:40 you need to preach also when the weather is bad. 00:28:42 And we feel that we have reaped bountifully 00:28:45 with nice return visits and Bible studies. 00:28:47 I feel it’s worth all the effort 00:28:49 because we see that people in the territory 00:28:52 really appreciate what they are learning. 00:28:54 All that we do in our ministry 00:28:56 is motivated by love for Jehovah 00:29:00 and the people in the territory, and it won’t be changed by bad weather. 00:29:04 It’s an opportunity to show that our worship is wholehearted. 00:29:08 You don’t just go in the ministry when everything is good 00:29:11 and the sun is shining. 00:29:15 I think we have become more enduring 00:29:17 and flexible in our ministry. 00:29:23 We saw that the publishers were fully supporting 00:29:27 the spirit that the elders showed 00:29:30 in sharing the good news 00:29:32 despite inclement weather. 00:29:36 Around the world, 00:29:38 many of our brothers face severe opposition 00:29:42 because of remaining loyal to Jehovah 00:29:46 and maintaining their Christian neutrality. 00:29:50 Let’s travel to Spain 00:29:52 and hear how some of our brothers 00:29:55 have dealt with these challenges firsthand. 00:30:01 Spain is a land of castles. 00:30:05 From the mountains of central Spain 00:30:07 to the Mediterranean coast, castles dominate the landscape. 00:30:13 But there is one castle —the Castle of Santa Catalina— 00:30:18 that played a unique part in the history of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Spain. 00:30:23 This castle that guards the entrance 00:30:27 to the harbor of Cádiz, in southern Spain, 00:30:29 became a military prison over two centuries ago. 00:30:33 And this fortress 00:30:35 tested the faith of around 300 Spanish Witnesses. 00:30:41 The battle began in the 1960’s when Spain was ruled 00:30:46 by General Franco, a military dictator. 00:30:49 Franco wanted all Spanish men to serve the fatherland, 00:30:54 and this meant military service. 00:30:58 But in Spain, there were Jehovah’s Witnesses 00:31:01 whose conscience said no. 00:31:03 So this castle became a battleground 00:31:06 where Franco’s military regime fought 00:31:09 to stamp out the Christian consciences of those young Witnesses. 00:31:16 But times have changed in Spain. 00:31:20 The city of Cádiz has organized an exhibition 00:31:22 to salute the sacrifice made by those valiant Witnesses. 00:31:28 Over 40 years after their release, 00:31:31 some of those conscientious objectors have returned to Cádiz 00:31:35 to attend this exhibition. 00:31:39 At the inauguration, 00:31:41 the mayor described them as citizens who spoke up 00:31:44 and who presented arguments against the injustice 00:31:47 —arguments based on peace, freedom, 00:31:50 and, above all, their conscience. 00:31:54 Those who spent years of their lives behind bars 00:31:57 have vivid memories 00:31:59 of the times when this castle was their prison. 00:32:05 I think one of the greatest challenges 00:32:07 was never knowing 00:32:09 if we would be granted our freedom. 00:32:13 Our first sentence 00:32:15 was for three years. 00:32:17 And since we still refused to enlist in the military, 00:32:21 we were then sentenced again for another lengthy period. 00:32:24 So it seemed as if we had a life sentence. 00:32:29 We organized daily activities 00:32:31 to keep us busy. 00:32:34 Mornings, we worked at our trades 00:32:38 to earn a little money. 00:32:40 Afternoons, we set aside for spiritual activities. 00:32:45 Our preaching was done mainly by writing letters. 00:32:51 And in this way, some of us could even pioneer. 00:32:55 A few people did reply to our letters, 00:32:58 and we were thrilled to hear that some of them accepted the truth. 00:33:04 Of course, we also preached to other prisoners, 00:33:08 and a few of them became baptized Witnesses. 00:33:12 We also studied the Bible thoroughly, 00:33:14 both individually and as a group, 00:33:16 which proved vital in building us up spiritually. 00:33:21 At first, we had to study our literature secretly, 00:33:24 but later the guards 00:33:27 allowed us to have the Bible and other publications. 00:33:31 As our numbers grew, 00:33:33 all the Witnesses were kept together 00:33:36 in the same place —in the same barracks— 00:33:38 so we could organize meetings. 00:33:43 We even held assemblies, including the Biblical dramas. 00:33:48 And we loved 00:33:50 singing Kingdom songs. 00:33:53 These songs really lifted up our spirits. 00:33:58 We really felt Jehovah’s loving care when the brothers came to visit us. 00:34:04 We even had a special visit from Brother Grant Suiter 00:34:08 of the Governing Body, 00:34:12 but there were also other visits that we really looked forward to. 00:34:17 Many of the brothers endured years of separation from their families 00:34:21 and fiancées. 00:34:23 This was a real test. 00:34:26 But these faithful sisters 00:34:27 wholeheartedly supported their neutral stand. 00:34:31 Those were years that molded me spiritually. 00:34:35 I studied the Bible as I had never done before. 00:34:39 I developed skills as a public speaker and as an overseer. 00:34:44 Above all, it was a time in my life 00:34:47 when I learned to rely totally on Jehovah. 00:34:51 Thanks to my fervent prayers, he became my closest friend 00:34:57 and he never let me down. 00:34:59 That was priceless. 00:35:02 The firm stand of those Witnesses 00:35:05 gave a powerful testimony in Cádiz and throughout Spain. 00:35:09 The run-down military prison 00:35:12 that once tested their faith 00:35:14 has been restored. 00:35:16 It is now a tourist attraction 00:35:18 and a cultural center. 00:35:21 But while the castle has changed, 00:35:23 the faith of those valiant Witnesses has not. 00:35:28 The castle certainly tested them, 00:35:30 but they fought a fine fight for the faith. 00:35:34 And with Jehovah’s help, they won the battle. 00:35:38 Forty years later, 00:35:40 their victory is still giving a witness 00:35:43 to Jehovah’s name. 00:35:49 As we noted earlier, 00:35:51 the apostle Paul said 00:35:54 that he was “being poured out like a drink offering.” 00:35:58 Similarly, by remaining neutral, 00:36:03 these brothers offered up a great sacrifice 00:36:06 of praise to Jehovah despite resistance. 00:36:10 And as we learned, by loyal endurance, 00:36:15 they went on to be “gifts in men” 00:36:17 to those in the congregations and circuits that they later served. 00:36:24 Other examples of “gifts in men” 00:36:27 are those who serve as headquarters representatives 00:36:31 visiting branch offices 00:36:34 and encouraging members of the Bethel families. 00:36:38 Brother Daniel Molchan had the privilege 00:36:42 to visit the countries of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. 00:36:47 They have had some exciting spiritual developments 00:36:51 in those lands. 00:36:55 On Sunday, February the 26th, 00:36:57 I traveled to Port-au-Prince for the branch visit 00:37:01 and was warmly welcomed by many of the Bethel family of 54 members. 00:37:06 The branch office supervises the preaching work 00:37:09 for more than 20,000 publishers. 00:37:13 Although Haiti has faced economic challenges 00:37:15 and suffered recent natural disasters, 00:37:17 our brothers are positive 00:37:20 and focus their attention on helping others to identify our Scriptural hope. 00:37:25 The Haitian people show a keen interest in the Word of God. 00:37:29 Our brothers average more than 42,000 Bible studies each month, 00:37:34 and Haiti enjoyed a Memorial attendance 00:37:36 of more than 86,000 in 2016. 00:37:39 This was four times more than the number of publishers in the branch territory. 00:37:44 The brothers love to use the videos in the ministry. 00:37:49 This is made possible by the Haiti audio/video team 00:37:51 translating the videos into their native language. 00:37:55 While many in Haiti speak French, 00:37:57 the common language of the people in general is Haitian Creole. 00:38:01 Creole is said to be 00:38:03 an expressive language that combines French words 00:38:06 with the grammar of West African languages. 00:38:09 The number of publishers in Haiti has quadrupled since the start 00:38:13 of Creole translation back in 1987. 00:38:17 The complete New World Translation Bible 00:38:20 was released in Creole in 2015. 00:38:23 We met with the translation team to commend them for the good work they do. 00:38:27 We reminded them of the many positive results 00:38:30 in the field ministry that have taken place 00:38:32 since translating the Bible and our literature into Creole. 00:38:36 As an example, Mirlène is a vendor of fruits and vegetables who was asked 00:38:41 if she would supply some of her produce to Bethel. 00:38:44 Although she was very impressed 00:38:46 the first time she arrived at the Bethel property, 00:38:49 she said she found the large steel gate to be intimidating. 00:38:54 So she prayed to God to protect her 00:38:56 while in the yard at Bethel. 00:38:58 The brothers dealt kindly with her when she made 00:39:00 her deliveries on Monday each week. 00:39:02 One of the brothers from the kitchen told her that maybe someday 00:39:05 she too would become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:39:08 She accepted an invitation to the Memorial, 00:39:11 and despite some personal challenges, such as not being able to read well, 00:39:14 she began to attend some congregation meetings. 00:39:17 Mirlène could see the difference 00:39:20 between Jehovah’s loving people and those in her church. 00:39:23 A study was started with her, 00:39:25 and she progressed to the point of baptism in 2009. 00:39:28 Since then, she has worked diligently 00:39:31 to teach the truth to her children with good results. 00:39:34 Her oldest son graduated from the School for Kingdom Evangelizers 00:39:39 and serves as an elder and temporary special pioneer. 00:39:42 Recently, another of her sons was appointed a ministerial servant, 00:39:47 and the four other children are unbaptized publishers. 00:39:52 Having our literature in Creole 00:39:54 and with the help of her children, she has improved her reading. 00:39:57 She now benefits from reading the Bible in Creole, 00:40:01 the language of her heart. 00:40:04 Good results are beginning to be seen 00:40:07 in the field of American Sign Language, which is now used in Haiti. 00:40:10 There are now 87 deaf publishers 00:40:14 in 4 ASL congregations and 8 groups. 00:40:17 The congregation here is singing praises to Jehovah. 00:40:22 Even our little sister is learning to do this. 00:40:28 This brother showed us the effort he puts forth 00:40:31 to prepare for a Bible reading. 00:40:34 A special program for Haiti was held 00:40:37 on Saturday morning at the open-air Assembly Hall 00:40:39 on the branch property. 00:40:41 A total of 1,405 were in attendance. 00:40:45 We were very encouraged to see 00:40:47 the group of our brothers who benefited from the program 00:40:49 in American Sign Language. 00:40:52 The program was recorded and presented at Kingdom Halls throughout the country 00:40:56 later that same day and also on Sunday 00:40:59 to a combined audience of 34,812. 00:41:04 We felt a little sad to leave the brothers on Sunday morning 00:41:07 for a drive of about six hours or so 00:41:09 to the Dominican Republic 00:41:11 for the second branch visit. 00:41:15 En route, we traveled through some semiarid areas 00:41:18 to the border between the two countries. 00:41:21 The terrain varied greatly as we drove through small mountains, 00:41:24 rich agricultural regions, and along the Caribbean Sea. 00:41:29 We took the opportunity to witness to some individuals at the border 00:41:33 and at various checkpoints, leaving literature along the way. 00:41:39 Upon entering the city of Santo Domingo, 00:41:41 we quickly identified the large JW.ORG sign at the branch office. 00:41:46 We were enthusiastically greeted 00:41:49 by many of the 73 Bethel family members. 00:41:53 Although the preaching work is done primarily in Spanish, 00:41:56 our brothers are expanding their ministry 00:41:59 to reach the language of the hearts of many peoples and cultures. 00:42:03 There are now 5 Haitian Creole circuits in the branch territory, 00:42:06 26 American Sign Language congregations, 00:42:09 and other congregations or groups 00:42:11 in Russian, Chinese, Italian and French. 00:42:15 We joined a group of brothers and sisters in the field ministry 00:42:18 in the Chinatown district of Santo Domingo. 00:42:22 Our group gave a witness to both Spanish- 00:42:24 and Chinese-speaking people on the streets 00:42:26 —most of whom respectfully listened to our message. 00:42:32 A Bethel brother, Evan, told us of the challenge 00:42:35 he faced when learning the truth. 00:42:39 I was finishing medical school 00:42:41 while serving in the Dominican army. 00:42:43 By then I had been serving for six years. 00:42:46 At my aunt’s home, I found the Revelation book. 00:42:51 It made such an impact on me, 00:42:54 that I stole it and read it all on my own. 00:42:58 There’s a vision in chapter 6 of Revelation, 00:43:01 where the sixth seal is opened 00:43:03 and the skies darken and the army commanders hide in caves. 00:43:08 That vision impressed me so much 00:43:10 that I decided to serve Jehovah. 00:43:13 That meant that I would have to leave the army 00:43:16 because Witnesses are neutral. 00:43:20 I quickly decided to talk to my immediate commander 00:43:22 to ask him to please discharge me from the army. 00:43:26 However, he rejected my request and said: 00:43:29 “No, you have served in the army for six years. 00:43:33 You have to stay in the army.” 00:43:35 I was not concerned because I could still appeal 00:43:38 to the colonel in charge of personnel. 00:43:40 However, my request for resignation was rejected again. 00:43:43 I left and went into the hallway. 00:43:45 I prayed to Jehovah: 00:43:47 “I want to serve you. 00:43:48 “What should I do? 00:43:50 Help me find a way out of this!” 00:43:52 When I opened my eyes, another army officer approached 00:43:55 and greeted me using my name. 00:43:57 I still don’t know who he was. 00:43:59 He asked me, “What do you need?” 00:44:02 I explained that I wanted to resign in order to become a Jehovah’s Witness. 00:44:06 He said: “Don’t worry, give me your papers. 00:44:09 I’m the colonel’s assistant.” 00:44:11 Within 20 minutes, my discharge papers were ready and approved. 00:44:16 In a short period of time, I became a publisher 00:44:18 and I got baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:44:21 At this time, I have been serving happily in Bethel 00:44:23 for over 11 years with my wife, Jael. 00:44:29 Without a doubt, Jehovah helps those who put their complete trust in him. 00:44:34 The branch is blessed to have as part of their Bethel family 00:44:37 some who had been longtime missionaries. 00:44:40 I enjoyed a very pleasant visit 00:44:42 with five of the senior members of this group 00:44:45 —three of whom are 98 years of age. 00:44:48 Brother William Dingman is of the first class of Gilead. 00:44:52 His wife, Estelle, attended the 12th class. 00:44:55 Thelma Critz is also of the 12th class. 00:44:58 Barbara Parker is of the 42nd class, 00:45:02 and Helen Ferrari attended the 2nd class of Gilead. 00:45:05 To illustrate the length of their full-time service 00:45:08 is the fact that Sister Ferrari 00:45:10 is among those who stood up to identify themselves 00:45:13 as part of the great multitude 00:45:16 at the 1935 convention in Washington, D.C. 00:45:20 The average age of this group is 94. 00:45:24 Even more impressive 00:45:26 is that their average years of full-time service is 73. 00:45:29 These faithful ones set a fine example 00:45:32 continuing to be active in the ministry 00:45:35 —taking into account their ages and health limitations. 00:45:38 Such loyal servants of Jehovah are considered 00:45:40 spiritual treasures wherever they may serve. 00:45:43 I still have one study so far, 00:45:46 although my eyesight doesn’t allow 00:45:48 me to do too much. 00:45:49 But I try. 00:45:51 My legs aren’t so good for walking, 00:45:54 so they wheel me around. 00:45:58 In all of my life, I would consider 00:46:01 the life that I have spent as a missionary 00:46:05 and in Dominican Republic as well 00:46:08 —it’s a wonderful life. 00:46:12 I couldn’t have chosen 00:46:15 a better companion 00:46:18 and also a better life 00:46:21 than to be preaching 00:46:23 the message of the good news of the Kingdom. 00:46:26 The Dominican Republic Bethel family 00:46:28 considers it a privilege to have a share in providing 00:46:31 care for such faithful ones. 00:46:34 On Sunday, March the 12th, a special program was held 00:46:38 at the open-air Assembly Hall adjacent to the branch office. 00:46:42 A total of 3,050 benefited 00:46:45 from the spiritual program and Christian association. 00:46:48 The visits to the Dominican Republic and Haiti branches 00:46:52 proved to be an encouragement and a spiritual blessing 00:46:54 to all who participated in them. 00:46:58 We thank Brother Molchan for that report 00:47:02 and for sharing those motivating experiences 00:47:06 of longtime servants of Jehovah. 00:47:10 Another example of this are Richard and Peggy Kelsey. 00:47:16 How has he, with the support of his dear wife, 00:47:21 proved to be one of the “gifts in men” 00:47:23 throughout his decades of full-time service? 00:47:31 I was born in a little town 00:47:34 called Adair, Iowa 00:47:36 —actually out on the farm— 00:47:38 and that was in 1930. 00:47:42 I was born in 1931, 00:47:44 also in a small town in Iowa. 00:47:47 My father wanted to be a farmer. 00:47:50 So we moved to a farm, and I grew up on a farm. 00:47:53 And then the Watchtower Study of a little group, 00:47:56 and then a little congregation was in our home. 00:47:59 And happily, when Peggy’s father came into the truth, 00:48:04 the family came to our place to the Watchtower Study. 00:48:08 I was—I guess at that time— eight or nine, 00:48:13 and Peggy was one year younger. 00:48:16 But the thing was, they moved away just after about one year. 00:48:22 Well, I started pioneering in September 1948. 00:48:27 Gilead was what I wanted. 00:48:29 I didn’t apply for Bethel 00:48:32 because I liked the field service, 00:48:34 and I thought South America, Africa, 00:48:36 countries where there is still so much to do 00:48:39 —that’s what I wanted. 00:48:42 I was called to Gilead 00:48:45 in 1951, in February. 00:48:50 The assignment after attending Gilead 00:48:54 was a great surprise. 00:48:56 Brother Schroeder, one of the instructors, 00:49:00 he said: “You will have 00:49:02 “a very wonderful opportunity, 00:49:05 “being assigned to the German Bethel. 00:49:08 “There are brothers there 00:49:09 “who have been in concentration camps for up to nine years, 00:49:14 and you can learn very much from these brothers.” 00:49:18 And that was very true. 00:49:23 In 1953, at the convention in New York, 00:49:26 I saw a beautiful young sister 00:49:30 standing in the cafeteria line next to my cafeteria line. 00:49:34 And I looked twice, 00:49:36 and it was Peggy. 00:49:38 So we were together for the rest of the convention 00:49:41 and decided that we would correspond and think about serving together. 00:49:45 In 1955 we married. 00:49:51 I had received the assignment to circuit work. 00:49:55 We were assigned to northern Germany. 00:49:58 When we began circuit work, I was 24. 00:50:01 I felt completely inadequate 00:50:04 because I’d been serving in Bethel 00:50:07 and had no training 00:50:10 that would qualify me to serve as a circuit overseer 00:50:15 —that was my feeling. 00:50:17 In the first place, the sisters with me always got nervous 00:50:21 with me not being able to speak correctly. 00:50:24 So they would take over the conversation, 00:50:27 and I stood there and didn’t understand anything. 00:50:30 But with time, you pick it up. 00:50:33 After two years, I could understand everything 00:50:36 in the theocratic language, 00:50:38 but in the kitchen I was still lost. 00:50:41 It was nine years for circuit work and, at the conclusion, district work. 00:50:46 And then we were called back into Bethel. 00:50:52 The biggest shock for me 00:50:55 was when Brother Knorr asked me 00:50:58 if I would be branch overseer. 00:51:02 And that was at the convention 00:51:05 of 1969 in Nuremberg. 00:51:08 And despite different arguments that I presented, 00:51:12 I got a letter later saying that I’d have that assignment. 00:51:17 For about 40 years, 00:51:19 we had the wonderful privilege of doing zone work or, 00:51:23 as it’s now stated, being representative of headquarters. 00:51:28 So it was wonderful to visit 00:51:31 somewhat over 90 different countries. 00:51:34 We became acquainted with Jehovah’s lovely family 00:51:39 —the worldwide brotherhood, the unity, 00:51:41 and seeing how the brothers everywhere 00:51:44 are devoted to Jehovah 00:51:46 and want to serve him faithfully 00:51:49 under sometimes very difficult conditions. 00:51:52 I would say, sometimes we benefited more 00:51:56 from the visit than the brothers we were visiting 00:52:00 because it was so faith-strengthening. 00:52:04 When we got this privilege 00:52:07 of traveling to many branches in the zone work, 00:52:11 we were able to engage in the field ministry 00:52:15 in numerous countries, 00:52:18 which I never would have had, of course, 00:52:21 if I would have just gone into missionary service. 00:52:23 So I said to myself, 00:52:26 ‘Accept every assignment Jehovah gives you 00:52:30 and you’ll find that you have the greatest blessings possible.’ 00:52:34 Since the 1st of January 1952, 00:52:38 I’ve been able to keep full-time service as my career. 00:52:42 And it’s something I certainly wouldn’t have changed 00:52:44 for anything else. 00:52:46 We have often said, 00:52:48 “Where would we be today if we hadn’t taken up full-time service?” 00:52:53 Certainly, we would not have enjoyed 00:52:55 so many things as we have in our lifetime. 00:53:00 There are so many young, talented brothers and sisters 00:53:05 who are working and helping. 00:53:07 We encourage them to make full-time service 00:53:11 in Jehovah’s organization their goal in life. 00:53:18 Are you one of those young, talented brothers or sisters 00:53:22 who Brother Kelsey mentioned could make full-time service a goal? 00:53:28 If so, keep it in your prayers. 00:53:34 Yes, as we look back at our program 00:53:37 and the examples of various “gifts in men,” 00:53:41 their wives, 00:53:43 and numerous others doing all they can for Jehovah, 00:53:47 what is it that motivates them 00:53:51 to live such self-sacrificing lives? 00:53:55 Love. 00:53:57 And that’s the theme of this month’s music video 00:54:01 entitled Brotherly Love. 00:54:18 Wherever you go, you will have fam’ly near. 00:54:23 Because wherever you go, Jehovah’s people are there. 00:54:29 And you’ll feel love. 00:54:32 You’ll feel love, A brotherly love. 00:54:40 So feel the love. 00:54:47 Brothers and sisters all over the world Unite with Jehovah and follow his Son 00:54:58 To bring you love— A nation of, 00:55:03 Of brotherly love. So feel the love. 00:55:21 Our Father provides for us all— No one left over. 00:55:39 Deep in the jungle or on mountains high, 00:55:44 In big, modern cities or on islands afar, 00:55:50 You belong. You belong to the people of God. 00:56:01 So feel the love. 00:56:13 Our Father provides for us all— No, no one left over. 00:56:31 But in the world, it can be cold— A scary place, truth to be told. 00:56:42 So how wonderful it is to know The one true God and his people! 00:56:57 Jesus, he taught his disciples to love. 00:57:02 So millions of people, as a nation, they show 00:57:08 Jehovah’s love— And you belong among all of them. 00:57:19 So feel the love. 00:57:31 So feel the love. 00:57:41 What a beautiful song 00:57:44 and a good reminder that one way 00:57:48 we can show our love to Jehovah and Jesus 00:57:51 is by showing love, respect, and appreciation 00:57:56 for the “gifts in men” they have generously given us. 00:58:02 Now, before we end the program, 00:58:06 we have a special treat. 00:58:09 Our postcard this month comes from right here 00:58:14 at our JW Broadcasting studio. 00:58:17 Yes, you get a sneak peek behind the scenes 00:58:21 of how our broadcast is produced. 00:58:24 First, a group of brothers and sisters 00:58:27 set aside their regular Bethel work for parts of three days. 00:58:32 Early on the first day, 00:58:34 the director reviews the “shot list” with crew members. 00:58:38 The “shot list” is a series of photographs 00:58:41 showing how the cameras will record each scene. 00:58:46 In the control room, media is prepared for display 00:58:50 on the studio’s video screen. 00:58:53 The microphones and cameras are all properly adjusted. 00:58:58 Then the crew rehearses the entire program several times 00:59:02 while a stand-in substitutes for the program host. 00:59:07 This allows the real host to concentrate on his other work 00:59:11 during these technical rehearsals. 00:59:14 On the third day, the actual host reports 00:59:17 to the studio’s makeup room, 00:59:20 where wardrobe makes sure that he looks his best. 00:59:24 Before recording begins, 00:59:27 the crew assembles for a brief meeting. 00:59:30 The host often gives a few brief comments, 00:59:33 and the floor director gives any final instruction to the crew. 00:59:38 After a prayer, everyone takes their positions. 00:59:41 Within a few hours, 00:59:44 the entire recording for that month’s program is completed. 00:59:49 Yes, our hardworking brothers and sisters that work in the studio 00:59:54 happily send you their warm love and greetings. 01:00:00 This is JW Broadcasting 01:00:05 from the world headquarters 01:00:07 of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
