The Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) opened its Week of Prayer under the theme “Identity of the Remnants,” emphasizing the hope of Christ’s return and the church’s responsibility to share that message with the world.
Speaking on “The Second Coming of Jesus,” Pastor Lowell Domocmat, an Adventist pastor and educator from Adventist University of the Philippines, encouraged church workers to reflect on a belief that has shaped Adventist identity and inspired generations of missionaries.
Domocmat explained that while many Christian denominations believe in Christ’s return, Adventists emphasize His literal, personal, visible, and worldwide coming, the resurrection of believers who have died, and the promise of eternal reunion with Christ.
He stressed that the Second Coming is more than a future event. It is a living hope that should influence how believers live and fulfill their mission.
A Hope That Inspired Generations
Drawing from Adventist history in the Philippines, Domocmat recalled the sacrifices of early Filipino ministers Emilio Manalaysay and Leon Roda, who continued sharing the gospel despite opposition and illness.
Manalaysay led evangelistic efforts in Tayabas, where 86 people were baptized, while Roda continued preaching in Nueva Ecija despite suffering from tuberculosis, contributing to 62 baptisms. Both died in their early 30s.
Their sacrifices, Domocmat explained, reflected a deep conviction that salvation comes through Jesus Christ and that His return was near.
A Promise That Makes Hope Personal
Domocmat also shared how the promise of Christ’s return became personal following the death of his mother.
He recalled preparing to travel home to North Philippines after learning of her mother’s critical condition, only to receive news that she had died before he could arrive.
“I was hoping that I would be able to see her alive on that Friday, but I was late,” he narrated.
During her wake, he committed himself to remaining faithful, holding on to the biblical promise of the resurrection and the hope of reuniting with his parents when Jesus returns.
Citing John 14:1-3 and Revelation 22, Domocmat reminded the congregation that Christ’s promise to return offers comfort amid grief and uncertainty.
A Continuing Call to Mission
Concluding his message, Domocmat challenged church workers to examine whether their belief in Christ’s return continues to influence their lives.
“Are we still looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ?” he asked.
He followed with another question: “Are we sharing this message with others so that they too may be among the blessed ones when Jesus comes again?”
Reflecting on his own plans for retirement, Domocmat acknowledged that he once considered spending more time gardening and hiking. However, he said he had come to recognize that sharing the hope of Christ’s return remains a lifelong calling.
As the Week of Prayer continues, his message serves as a reminder that Adventist identity is not defined by beliefs alone but also by a commitment to live and share the hope of Jesus’ soon return.