President's Post
March 2020
The Coronavirus has all of us adjusting and rethinking all that we do. I’ve sent out a video that I hope you’ve had an opportunity to see. Of course, as things change and they seem to do almost daily, I’ll be updating the information through video and online at www.gscsda.org/coronavirus
COVID-19 and the resulting restrictions placed by the CDC and other entities have also led to the cancellation of some GSC events, like Alamisco Camp Meeting, and the extension of spring break for Bass Memorial Academy. See more about event cancellations at www.gscsda.org/coronaviruscancellations
Some thoughts I’ve had regarding this virus and what we can do; We can wash our hands, not touch our face, and stay away from big crowds. I know that sometimes it seems like there should be more to do, but right now, I can’t think of anything else that I can do to defeat this invisible virus.
In reflection, I’ve had a lot of experience fighting an invisible virus. All my life, I’ve fought Satan’s temptations and his direction that he put in front of me. All I could ever do was to allow Jesus to wash me with His disinfectant that makes me whiter than snow. (Psalm 51:7) We can try to avoid COVID-19, do our due diligence, and offer prayers each day for our health. But in the end, the Lord is in charge of everything I experience, and He knows how to get me through whatever the results may be.
There is one more thing we can do to fight this invisible virus called Satan. When Jesus began to wash the disciple’s feet, Peter protested, “No way!” Jesus said, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” (John 13:8) Baptism has a huge place to play in our walk with Jesus. Its symbolism of death and new life is extraordinary and essential. But in that little book in the new testament, Titus, in chapter 3:5 it goes deeper; “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.” This phrase “washing of regeneration” literally means a “new birth.” Baptism is the gateway to this birth and life in Jesus. We wash each other’s feet symbolically of our baptism as well as Jesus’s instructions to do this each quarter. Here is a beautiful thought: The Greek word for regeneration is palingenesis, and it’s used by classical writers with reference to the changes produced by the return of spring. Now that is a thought to hang on to during all of this turmoil and unrest.
Let’s visit for a little bit about other things that I experienced last month.
Youth Director
Brian and I sat down with Todd and Shelly Ward. He is our Ranger, and Shelly is the best camp cook ever! They work tirelessly together up at Camp Alamisco all year long. The difference this couple has made is incredible. It was a good visit and discussion on the direction of Camp with Todd and December Casey transitioning out of our conference. Todd and December have made a real impact in our Youth Ministries department, and they will be missed. But as you know we belong to the “Great Advent Movement.” So, after a good visit, Brian and I began to look for replacements for the Casey’s. We have four great names, and just yesterday, we interviewed all four of them with Todd and Shelly, Cary and Tracy, Gwen, Brian, and myself. I’m happy to share that we are all excited as we cut that number down to two. We are connecting with them now to set up times when they can come to the office and camp to interview. I think we are going to be happy with either of these Youth Leaders. God will continue to lead.
Travel
I spoke at Gulfport Hispanic last Sabbath and was blessed. Pastor Christophe and his dear wife are leading a church there that has unlimited potential. What a thrill it is to be with a pastor and his leadership that are all on fire for Jesus. After church, I enjoyed their Spanish lunch immensely. They are so full of love and family that they always put a smile on my face. Kids running around all over, I just love it!
I attended Southern’s Board of Trustee’s meeting and love to sit at the feet of President Dave’s leadership. Always lots of challenges at the University, but they are in great hands by their spiritual leadership.
I pray that in the months ahead we will be past the virus, and life will become normal again.
Until next month,
Dave
Bass Camp Meeting
Jim Davidson, and Dr. Ron C. Smith, will present at Bass Memorial Academy and Charles Haugarbooks will provide a spiritual concert.
Also, Micki Glenn, who was featured on Animal Planet’s I Was Prey television show in 2018 following her shark attack in Turks and Caicos will be sharing her survival story and its effect on her spirituality.
Learn more at www.gscsda.org/campmeeting
Wednesday, May 20, 2020, 06:00 PM
Bass Memorial Academy, U.S. 11, Lumberton, MS, USA
Office of the President
Email: admin@gscsda.org
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