Letter to the Congregations: 13th September 2025

Our Dear Brethren,

“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness” (2 Peter 3:10-11).

The apostle Peter, a man who was often quick to give a response without thinking, had matured in his old age. God had worked with him and he had grown to be a steady and reliable servant both of God and of his own brethren. He left us with this great wisdom in seeking proper perspective even in the face of troubling times. Have we heeded this all-important advice?

Peter’s advice can be coupled with the urging from Jesus Christ Himself: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:33-34). How are we doing in seeking first the Kingdom of God? While all those around us are making wars and rumors of wars, and while many are arguing over political and interpersonal disagreements, and while the love of many is growing colder all the time, is this (the Kingdom) our focus?

While seeking first God’s Kingdom is a very big ask for us, the divinely inspired reminder from Peter about the coming of the day of the Lord is a gift from God, a peek into the future to help us stay focused on what is to come rather than the discouragement around us. “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:17-18).

Let’s continue to refocus ourselves on the Kingdom of God and on the return of our Savior because His return is the only solution.

Our love is with you,

Lewis VanAusdle

Pastor, United Church of God

NYC, NJ, CT, Malawi, Zimbabwe