By Jeff Larson – The Back Pew
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“Do you remember what it was like when the teacher called the roll? If someone was absent, the teacher might call their name twice and even a third time. Can you imagine what a sad thing it would be when our names are called from the Lamb’s Book of Life if someone you know and love is absent? That’s what James Black thought about when he wrote that famous hymn, ‘When the Roll is Called up Yonder.’ He was president of his church’s young people’s society and was responsible for calling the roll. I can’t think of anything sadder than standing there and listening to the names called and never hearing the name of the persons nearest your heart. Pray earnestly for their salvation. Make sure you witness to them of Christ. Always maintain a good testimony in front of them so they can see Christ’s transforming power is real.”
-Rev. Mark Creech