This is a sermon given by myself, Tim Rittenour, which was inspired by the Cantada, "Watch the Lamb", performed at the Open Arms Christian Fellowship Church in Thief River Falls, MN on 04/13/20204 and 04/14/2024.  It is a dramatic musical production written by Ray Boltz and Steve Millikan. Open Arms is a Seventh-Day Adventist  Ministry that has, over the years, used a variety of bridging programs to reach our community. We have a strong fruit program, have put on CHIP programs over 2 dozen times, offered dramatic musical productions with heavy participation of the public. We have also streamed evangelistic meetings, had booths at the fair and home shows and a variety of other programs and we continue to explore other creative ways to reach out to the community. Our next offering will be "MindFit" from the Voice of Prophecy which will begin April 25th, 2024.  Many friends in the community have been made who have blessed us in immeasurable ways. We recognize that Jesus is coming soon and earnestly desire to be used of God in proclaiming this message and the need for all to be ready for our Savior's return. I am blessed to be a part of this community of believers and function in a "lay pastor" capacity. I hope you are blessed by this message

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

So many have sustained and suffered abuse in one form or another. Joslynn certainly did and yet in spite of this she is not bitter, angry or resentful towards her abusers or God. She has found serenity in spite of this history by turning to God in her "prayer closet". If you have suffered some form of abuse in your life, I trust you will find this episode helpful and  healing. God can give gives us "beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning". 

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

This is a sermon I gave at the Open Arms Christian Fellowship Church in Thief River Falls, MN on 03/16/2024. I love to read and study my Bible. It satisfies my heart yearnings for peace and contentment like no other Book or activity. Thousands have given their lives for the Word of God and it's truths. It is like no other book. It is precious and Holy...
There is a minute or two of delay before it begins. Sorry for the slight buzz in the background. 

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

Today I got to sit down with a new friend, Guirleine Versailles. I have known her for just a few months and have been impressed with her spirituality and witness. Originally from Haiti, she now lives in Thief River Falls, MN and works at DigiKey here in town. 

By the way, I am sorry I have not published any podcasts for awhile. The Lord led me to make a move to Thief River Falls where I am assisting with the work and mission of the Open Arms Christian Fellowship Church which is a supporting ministry of the SDA Church, and really home for me. I have a burden for all of NorthWest Minnesota and hoping and praying the Lord will bless as we seek to do our part in the work of this area that is near and dear to my heart. Jesus is coming so very soon I believe and we must be ready and also help others to ready themselves, by God's forgiving and transforming grace, for His soon return in the clouds of glory! 

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

This is a continuation of our study on the Sabbath. We covered OT texts in our last episode. This episode covers NT texts. 

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

I am experimenting with a new idea and that is to provide you with reviews of various Bible subjects that are vital for us to know well as we come to the close of this world's history. We may be called upon someday, to give a defence of our beliefs. I feel I need to be better prepared to do so if I am faced with such a scenario and I suspect I am not alone. I am beginning with the Sabbath which of course, as Seventh-Day Adventists, we should know "backwards and forwards". I plan to continue to do interviews as well. The summer has been busy for all of us but I think things are starting to slow down now so I will endeavor to put out more material. I am experimenting with some software tools to aid me so forgive me if something doesn't seem quite right in this recording. I want to improve and continue to learn how I can produce higher quality content without "breaking the bank".  Thank-you for your support!

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

My son-in-law Jonathan Dietrich presented an update on the work that Desert Tree Ministries is doing in Chad Africa. My daughter Melody and he have been in Chad for the last 14 years. The Lord has greatly blessed their work there. This was a slide presentation so unfortunately right now this is an audio podcast but I think you will still be blessed. Also there was a buzz in the recording I am hoping will be cleaned up by my podcasting host. God does multiply our efforts beyond our expectations as we give to Him what we have, even if it is ever so small! Praise Him for His love and mercy to us and for the privilege we have of working with Him.

I am very humbled to learn that some of you would like to support this podcast as well as support me in general as I devote myself completely to working for the Lord in whatever capacity He leads. This has prompted me to explore means by which this can be accomplished. If the Lord puts it in your heart to help, I will be most grateful! Below is a paypal link one can use to do so, and I hope to discover other ways by which support can be directed. Thank-you so much for any assistance you can give and may the Lord richly bless you and all who are striving to do their part in finishing the blessed work God has entrusted to us!

https://www.paypal.me/DonateToTheMAP

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

Why does God permit suffering? An age old question that I have wondered about in my own life. I have at times asked why I was born into the home I had with all it's pain, abuse and suffering. There have been times I have, through blinding tears, asked God why He could not have given me a different home, with loving parents. The Lord in His mercy and kindness helped to answer that question for me this morning as I stumbled upon this YouTube interview this morning. I need to be hear the voice of God speaking to me with this question, "Can you thank Me for trusting you with this experience, even if I never tell you why"? Dear friend, have you had some traumatic, painful, dark experiences you have passed through in your life? Perhaps you are carrying them all by yourself, not daring to tell anyone about them? Have you wondered why God allowed you to suffer so? I trust this episode will bring some answers and comfort to your soul. I pray that it will. Jesus understands suffering and wishes for you to trust Him and bring to Him all that pain. He is preparing a home for us now, where there will be no more death or suffering or pain. If you have not surrendered you heart and life to Him and experienced the comfort and relief He can give, why not give Him your heart today...

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

I have been busy helping install a new AV system for the Dodge Center SDA church for the last several days.  Calvin Runji, the owner of "Scene Alive", a consulting and installing business out of Texas, has come up to do the instillation here in Dodge Center. It has been grueling work with long hours and many hurdles and obstacles and decisions to make but by God's enabling grace, the work is about 90% done! I had a chance to ride with him one day and decided to do a podcast during the trip so this episode is pretty raw but still has interesting and helpful content. If you are a member of a communication or evangelism committee in your church or a member of the AV team, you will especially enjoy this episode. It was such a pleasure to work with Calvin and his associate, Hevert! They demonstrated optimism and cheerfulness, professionalism and patience with all of us who pitched in and always took time to answer our endless questions. It reminded me of Nehemiah building the wall! We all got along well as Jesus was in our hearts as we worked! Now we pray that the Lord well bless our efforts to reach a broader audience with Bible-based quality messages and material as we plan to publish our services and special events to the "Dodge Center SDA Church" YouTube channel. So be sure to check that channel out and please refer your friends and neighbors as well! We want to do our part in hastening our Lord's soon return!

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast

I have been able to observe Jonathan & Melody for a few days in the parenting of their children. They will be the first to admit that they are not "perfect" but as I have observed them, I can not but think they do a very good job, better than I did,  and so I invited them to sit down and discuss parenting. If you are a parent or a grandparent or have anything to do with children, you will enjoy their thoughts and advice. If you enjoy this podcast, please pass it on and let others be blessed by it as well. I would very much appreciate it!

As host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast I want to give praise and honor to my Lord and Savior and Dearest Friend, Jesus Christ, as being the inspiration behind and producer of this podcast. With His oversight and blessing, I want to offer to Seventh-Day Adventists across the state of Minnesota and beyond, news and inspiration, testimonies, interviews, sermons, music and whatever else I believe can be a help and blessing to our ever growing Adventist family. At this time, when the crescendoing judgements of God are falling upon the land and the signs of Christ's soon return are more evident everyday, we need each other. We need to band together and "press together" that we may be "one" in Christ and answer His earnest prayer to "love one another" as He has loved us. It is only in doing so, that we can help one another and others to be fully committed and ready for His soon return. "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near...." Joel 3:14.

I, who am less than the least of His,

Timothy Rittenour
Host of the Minnesota Adventist Podcast