Ten years ago I attended the General Conference Session in St. Louis. It was a thrilling time to be surrounded by fellow believers, who belonged to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We sang songs together and exchanged smiles that were not limited by language. Sabbath was amazing. We worshiped together in a grand stadium. We spoke to ministry leaders in their booths. I met many who had spoken God’s truth throughout my life and was able to express my appreciation.
This year I am unable to be there in person but, thanks to 3ABN and Hope Channel and their corresponding apps, I will able to participate to a certain extent. I did not expect it to be as satisfying, but let me tell you the thrill that I felt watching the first meeting.
Morning worship began predictably. Music, multilingual prayer, and then Scripture. Pastor Derek Morris led the responsive reading of Revelation 5. He directed the attendees to read the portion “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb.” They have their Bibles with them! They really are Adventists, I exulted. Tears sprang up as my next thought was of the reach of the Gospel before Jesus returns: “…Every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.” These were represented right there. Together they said
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing. v. 12
Just like in Heaven.
We will someday gather round His throne, all like-minded redeemed. To think, we get a taste of that right now. As they spanned the camera across the stadium, delegates were mainly gathered at the floor seating anticipating morning meetings to follow. A few people were sprinkled across the stadium, but not like it will be on Sabbath when I expect a full house. Still the effect was meaningful. God’s message of love and redemption, the truth of His character has gone out in the four corners of the earth. And here, representatives were together worshiping God and validating His character in joyful praise. And I, another voice for the Master, joined in the song.
