The Voice of Zion March 2025 - Editorial --
In the Laestadian Lutheran church, we find believers and member congregations in both the United States and Canada, united not only by faith, but by shared culture and history, family ties, and the call to serve one another in love. As the winds of international disputes blow across the continent, it can be easy to feel disheartened or concerned about where actions may lead. We may find ourselves on differing sides of high-level decisions. Yet as Christians in God’s kingdom, our perspective reaches beyond earthly matters and reminds us of what binds us eternally. The richest blessing is the opportunity for mutual gospel work that is beyond temporal borders.
When the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, he emphasized that love is the greatest of all virtues. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor. 13:13). This charity—the selfless love that comes from God—is what guides believers’ relationships, both within the congregation and across borders. While earthly storms may arise, they do not diminish the unity we have as fellow travelers on the road to heaven.
History offers examples of how the Christian church has endured and thrived in times of political or societal tension. Luther himself was no stranger to living amidst national and political upheaval, yet he focused not on the shifting landscape of alliances and conflicts but on what he called the “true treasure” of the church—the gospel of Christ. In his writings, Luther often reminded believers that earthly kingdoms will rise and fall, but God’s kingdom is eternal. He once wrote, “Even if the world were to collapse, faith would say: ‘I have Christ, and that is enough.’”
This perspective is particularly relevant as we navigate this season. While policies and political statements may impact daily life, they do not change the promises of God or the mission He has given us as His people. Christ’s words in the Sermon on the Mount remind us where our priorities lie: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33). When we place God’s kingdom above all else, the concerns of this world take their proper place—not ignored, but seen through the lens of faith.
Within our congregations, let us be vigilant to ensure that earthly matters do not create barriers to Christian love. It is natural for people to have differing views on political or economic issues, but these differences should never cause divisions among believers. They should also not keep us from sharing what weighs on our hearts and minds. We don’t want the enemy of souls to create a space in which we’re scared to ask about, share or discuss issues that impact daily life for fear of being judged or dismissed.
One way we can preserve unity is by looking on others with the mind of Christ. If we find ourselves frustrated or at odds with a fellow believer over earthly matters, let us remember Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matt. 5:9).
Luther understood that Christians are called to live in two kingdoms—the earthly and the heavenly. While we fulfill our responsibilities as citizens of our respective countries, our primary allegiance is to God’s kingdom. This dual responsibility can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to experience firsthand and share with others the peace and love that come from living as a child of God.
As we face this moment together, we take comfort in the knowledge that God remains in control. The psalmist writes, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea” (Ps. 46:1,2). In every era, God’s people have faced uncertainties, but they have also experienced His faithfulness.
Let us be steadfast in praying for our congregations and also our leaders and nations. Pray for wisdom and understanding to prevail in earthly matters, and pray for the continued strength of the bonds that unite us as believers. As we do so, we can trust in the promise found in Philippians 4:7: “The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
The most important transaction we partake in is ultimately not between countries but between heaven and earth. Christ has already paid the price, trading His life for our salvation. We yet reap the rewards of this, when our sins are forgiven in His holy name and blood. In this, we find our greatest comfort and our enduring mission—to love, to serve, and to trust that God will provide.
May we, as members of the body of Christ, continue to walk hand in hand, reflecting the light of His love in a world that needs it now and always.