Article

Director’s Message

The 2016 NAD Health Summit ended yesterday but I am still here in the town of Hope, British Columbia, Canada. It was a remarkable event. Although there were set-backs, trials and difficulties just prior to the event, all went better than expected. Some things were perhaps not as we planned, but reflecting back, I can truly say that the blessings overtook us.

It’s not always easy to see past the struggles and disappointments that meet us in this life. Even after the “incident” has become a part of history, the effects can remain with us for weeks, months, and even years. Perhaps you can recall some of these that have impacted your own life. I certainly have had my share. And yet, though some of those memories remain painful, I can also see how God somehow made good come out of the situation. I don’t understand how He did it. But I know only He could have done so.

Contemplating on the power and the promises of God can be an abstract process. But recounting the ways in which He brought victories and blessings to me, in spite of impossibilities, makes Him a lot more real – a lot more precious – to me.

But what if there really is nothing good that came from a situation? What if there really were no blessings? Not a single one. What if God Himself were to say “There is nothing I can do to change this. But I am with you.” Would only having His presence be enough?

That was the topic of one of the plenary talks at the Health Summit. I encourage you to prayerfully consider your response. Then visit the Adventist Learning Community website (adventistlearningcommunity.com) to view this presentation as well as many of the others from the Summit. I know you will not regret the time spent in hearing these informative and inspirational messages..

Angeline B. David, DrPH, MHS, RDN

Health Ministries / ARMin Director
North American Division