As you have noticed by now this is the December issue of the Beacon Lights. “Whatever happened to the November issue?” you ask. To which I reply, “Not enough copy to make an issue.” Rather than wait until there is enough copy at the last minute to make the November issue, I have decided to omit that issue and produce the December issue which has enough articles. Actually the staff and the Federation Board suggested I omit any issue that would come out late if I had to wait until there was enough copy to make an issue. We want the Beacon Lights to come out early each month, even a week before the month of the issue. In order to do this, the articles for each issue must be to me on time. If they are not on time, then you may see more issues omitted because of a lack of articles. We apologize to you the reader and hope you will understand our situation.
Do you want to know a SECRET? Prof. R. Decker’s speech that he gave at the Young People’s Convention this past summer is in this issue and you can read about the Christian’s secret in his speech “Contentment in Suffering.” Prof. Decker spoke about the suffering of God’s people and being content in that suffering. He also spoke about how that contentment is attained.
A special convention issue will be sent to all young people who attended the convention. The speeches of the convention will be spread throughout future issues of the Beacon Lights.
If you heard the expression, “Don’t ruin Uncle George’s socks,” you would be inclined to think this was about a relative who was borrowing Uncle George’s socks and being warned not to abuse the socks. The intended meaning of these words, however, has nothing to do with socks. To find out what this phrase is all about, read Gramps’ letter “A Habit Letter to My Grandchildren.” Mr. John Faber writes another interesting and encouraging letter from his heart to those whom he loves. Reading his article is a good habit to keep.
There are many things as young people that we must remember and not forget. Rev. J. Heys reminds us of what we, as well as our parents and grandparents, must remember and have daily in our mind. The article, “An Awesome Call to Our Young People,” in rubric From the Pastor’s Study, provides us with a practical study of Ecclesiastes 12:1. Though we must remember the birth of our Savior, His cross, resurrection, and ascension into heaven, there is also another profoundly important truth to keep in mind and heart.
Kristi Moelker from our Hope congregation in Walker, Michigan gives us another book review, this time on “A Land I Will Show Thee,” by Marian M. Schoolland. Those of you who live in Holland, Michigan will be especially interested in reading this book since it is the story of a young couple who travel from the Netherlands to America. Thanks, Kristi, for whetting our appetite for reading a great piece of literature.
Ruth Bleyenberg has produced her last issue of “What’s Happened” now that she has taken over the responsibilities of secretary. To take her place is Joan Buiter from Hope Church, Walker, MI. Joan has her work cut out for her and if her suggestions at our last staff meeting are any indication of her abilities, she will continue to provide us with interesting and exciting news. Welcome aboard, Joan, and may our Covenant God provide you with His strength. Bulletin clerks please note, her address is 1501 Maderia, SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.
We are also very pleased to tell you that Bruce Miedema will be writing for us as an associate editor. Bruce comes from our Hudsonville, Michigan church where he co-leads the Senior Young People’s Society. His enthusiasm for his new position is contagious, so look forward to reading his articles in the near future.