Looking Forward to the Imperishable

The “almond tree has blossomed¹” since I studied the book of Ecclesiastes for the first time during a trip to Zimbabwe in 1983. I keep the commentary I bought from Word of Life Bookshop in Harare as a souvenir.

I knew more then about grasshoppers than almond trees; the message to me from the book of Ecclesiastes was in those days: time is coming when arthritis will slow you down. I knew that would not be fun. I was young, fresh from medical school, the metaphors of physical and mental decline were somewhat abstract. Fortunately, nothing has slowed me down, or so I think.

More importantly, I became aware that having a relatable Creator offered endless opportunity for purpose when one still has pleasure in their days.

The duty of mankind, or reverence for God, and obedience to His commandments, forms the foundation of well- being, fulfillment and Divine approval. This means doing and being what you are made for.

To aim to please our Creator, to win His prize, is exciting and motivational. His reward must be imperishable.

At EMAS Canada, many hours and much prayer went into preparing our strategic plan, and we are still working on it. So many of our leaders sacrificed time, effort, and money. More like you will give and serve to implement the plan.

At the time of our recent strategic plan retreat, the real almond trees were blooming, reminding us of God’s perennial faithfulness to renew, rejuvenate, and sustain.

A faithfulness we see almost daily.

Changes on the board, and team leadership, and staff promise a bright future. We have a team that will win the prize; now as in the past the gospel is in good hands.

Recently six young Haitians from Gambade became followers of Christ, because of our collaboration with another Canadian organization.

And the café in Asia is spreading its wings to serve more and more people, making the good news available to seniors through a community-based outreach.

I have pleasure in my days; I continue my duty of reverence and obedience.

I am confident that you and I will be rewarded, in a crowning moment of pride when Jesus hosts His faithful servants.²