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LLC Music Committee | The Voice of Zion March 2024 - Music Notes Article -- Rick Nevala (Chairman), Ross Byman, David Edwards, Mandy Frantti, Ian Hendrickson, Liisa Keranen, Matthew Keranen, Andrea Lahti, Ingrid Ojala, Sarina Siljander, John Stewart, Lea Waaraniemi, Janna Ylioja and Jessica Ylioja. “Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise. The gift of language combined with the gift of song was given to man that he should proclaim the Word of God through Music.” These words are attributed to our forefather in faith, Martin Luther. Found in his 1538 preface to George Rhau’s Symphoniaie iucunde, the sentiment expressed reflects his views on the role of music in praising God and in the proclamation of God’s Word. We might ponder: what kind of music is such that can be thought of as second only to God’s Word? What kind of music deserves this comparison? Music is an integral part of our worship life. Furthermore, music is part of many believers’ personal life as well. It pays to think about the music we hear in worship services and other events where believers gather, and it pays to pay attention to what music we choose to listen to when we’re on our own. In our worship services, we open services with a song. Sometimes a pre-service song serves as a call to gather. We sing after we hear a sermon. We sing together before we scatter. Why do we sing in these contexts? And what do we sing in these contexts? The songs and hymns of believers open our hearts to focus on where we are and why. They let us leave our earthly worries at the door. They open our ears to hear the Word of God. After a sermon, they can serve to gather the thoughts expressed in the sermon. And in a closing song of praise, we together pour out our thanks for how God again served us. At festive, seasonal programs and in sacred acts that are viewed as family events such as baptisms, weddings and funerals, we may additionally hear music that is suitable for church events and services. Sometimes this music is sung or other times it is instrumental music. In our personal life, we also partake of music produced by and for believers. This can serve to bring joy into daily moments, or perhaps it comforts and uplifts in a time of trial or sorrow. Some play these familiar melodies on instruments at home or sing the well-known words of Zion’s songs as they go about daily chores. This music fits into our everyday life in numerous ways. Other kinds of music – art music, children’s songs, patriotic selections – are also familiar music choices to many believers. In one’s own life, it is up to the individual to select music that leaves the listener uplifted in thought and emotion. Such music aligns with our values. We could say it feeds the human soul whether the music is religious in nature or not. After all, most would not purposely select music that makes them distraught or distressed after they’ve listened to it. Whatever you choose to listen to, you can certainly feel in yourself what the music does to you, how it affects you. Does the music we engage in lead us to temptation? Is it at odds with that which God’s kingdom teaches? Or does it draw us closer to God and keep us close to our values? If we’re honest with ourselves, the answer to this question is clear. Musical elements, such as melody, rhythm and the composition or structure of the music can have effects on our mood and on our body. Music can make us relaxed, tense, edgy or emotional, and it can have many other kinds of effects as well. In selecting music and engaging in music in any way, the Holy Spirit guides. What we do, what we’re drawn to, what we read and listen to shapes and adjusts our habits and values and priorities (Gal. 6:7,8). Over time that which may have once sounded foreign to a child of God can become dear and desired. Along with our habits, a change may also occur in our attitudes toward what God’s kingdom teaches. Ultimately we may begin to wonder whether God really intended matters to be as they are taught in God’s kingdom. In real time and in the wealth of music choices we have readily available we may encounter selections that raise questions. In such situations, it is secure to ask other believers for opinions and advice. If someone cautions against something, listen to them. Pray for a mind of acceptance, even if understanding isn’t immediately forthcoming. In questions of what music we invite into our personal life and congregational life, we wish to listen to what our conscience says – to what the congregation and the Spirit teaches. Remaining obedient in these questions protects our consciences from harm and danger. Listening to these teachings can keep us from being led to other pastures, away from God’s kingdom. It can feel like our personal life and our worship life in the form of church services are separate things, and it can feel clear which types of music belong to which area of life. However, what if there are events in which both elements are present? In events such as weddings, it can feel like these are personal and family events – places of personal expression – but in actuality these are sacred acts – church services. There may be more of a tendency to exert personal wishes and views than is necessary or advisable in worship services. Perhaps a wedding reception is a place that better accommodates personal touches and choices. It is important to remember that in the case of a wedding, the two believers who are joining in marriage have chosen to come together to sanctify their marriage with God’s Word and prayer. The couple, with God’s congregation, ask God for His blessing and guidance. It is therefore good that we in such contexts show reverence and humility before God’s holy face in every aspect of the service, music included. Holiness separates that which is sacred from the everyday aspects of life, and so the music selections we make for such church services should reflect the appropriate level of holy reverence as well. “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6). In all areas of our life, let us engage in that which keeps us in the fellowship of God and draws us closer to heaven, one day at a time. Things to visit about: What kind of music do you want to place in a position that is second only to God’s Word? Where does music lead your thoughts and your heart? What is the mission and purpose of music for a believer? What music is appropriate for a believer’s life? What music is appropriate for believers’ functions? How do we explain what church music is, i.e. what music belongs in a church? Who decides what is appropriate? How do we spread awareness about these matters?

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion March 2024 - News & Notes Article -- We live a time of Lent, and spring is coming. At the end of the month, we celebrate Easter. Before that comes Mary’s Day, marking the time when the angel of the Lord announced to Mary that she would bear the Son of God. She questioned, “How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?” (Luke 1:34). Hearing the angel’s answer, Mary left a beautiful example of living faith, replying, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (v. 38). On behalf of the LLC Board and staff, I wish to extend a heartfelt message of thanks for all the messages and prayers expressed on our behalf as we navigated the legal action brought against the LLC. This legal matter has been dismissed. May God protect and preserve us as children in His kingdom. Plans are well underway for joint SRK-SFC-LLC meetings in early April. The brothers coming will also join North American ministers at LLC Ministers Camp. We look forward to Winter Services as well as Easter festivities in our congregation with special services. These services remind us of the comfort we experience when we are able to gather around God’s Word in unity of faith and understanding. Update on LLC Activities Facilities Camp season is set to begin. All camp centers will be up and operational. The new season brings a lot of work both in preparation for the season and requests for volunteers to serve at the camps in directing, teaching, support as staff counselors and kitchen workers. Speaking directly to kitchen workers, we strongly encourage men of all ages to sign up for shifts. Great joy is often experienced while serving at camp. Education Sunday School curriculum review continues to additional grades. Currently, 3rd grade is complete and 8th grade is nearing completion. Groups in congregations around North America continue to accept the request to update additional grades. The goal is to have three additional grades completed for the 2024–25 Sunday School year. In prior years, March has been designated as camp work–youth work month. With the thought of the 2024 Operating Plan theme, “They that wait up the Lord shall renew their strength,” youth and camp committees are encouraged to make known the need for workers and volunteers for this camp season, for in so doing, more people can feel the joy of serving God in this way. Pastoral and Education A catechism review committee has been formed and is meeting weekly to modernize language in Luther’s Small Catechism. The goal is to have this update complete prior to the need for the next printing, 2025–2026 Sunday School year. Print Publications Work continues on the book detailing LLC history during the years 1973–1999. The book will be published this year. Note the advertisement elsewhere in this issue of The Voice of Zion that shows details on our LLC Publications Easter Sale. Place your order today! As part of our Easter Sale and to otherwise observe Easter, we are hosting an Easter Open House at the office the week leading up to Easter. More details will be shared with congregations and on social media. Our special Easter magazine, Easter Messenger, is on its way to subscribers’ mailboxes. It will also soon be posted on Hearken! We will host an online Content Creators Workshop April 19–20. More details to follow. Sometimes we receive feedback on our publications without asking for feedback, but other times we ask for specific input and feedback. Such was the case when we published our LLC Periodicals Survey in January. The survey was open for one month, and we received over 350 responses. We are very thankful to all who took time to respond. We will publish results from this survey after we’ve taken time to analyze the data. In the feedback we receive, one question that is occasionally asked concerns the aims or goals of The Voice of Zion. Why do we publish this newspaper? One answer to this is found in our Voice of Zion Charter, which was approved by the LLC Board of Directors in October 2022: The Voice of Zion is the flagship periodical of the Laestadian Lutheran Church (LLC). It serves to inform, encourage and enlighten with the good news of personal salvation to people across the globe. The content in The Voice of Zion serves to advance the LLC Mission Statement. It supports and reports on all areas of work done in God’s Kingdom, under the auspices of LLC, its member congregations and sister organizations. The paper presents the believers’ life experience and point of view on our mutual endeavor, such as it is in the time and place in which we live. Throughout, The Voice of Zion espouses the belief that God’s Word is the ultimate authority in faith and life. Digital Communications Our publications app Hearken is turning two this month. We are very grateful that this service has answered a need. At this time we have 1800 unique subscriptions, and since some of those are family subscriptions, we have over 2500 individual users. We continue to work to improve usability of the app. If you are ever experiencing difficulties with it, please let us know. Also, it pays to make sure you have the latest version for either Android or Apple devices. Newer versions have fixes for bugs or glitches that older versions may continue to exhibit. On Hearken, we have two new podcasts. Look for them monthly. One is titled Ye That Labor. In this podcast, believers discuss their career and their working life and how that career is for a believer. The other new podcast is titled Gospel of Peace, and in this podcast ministers visit about mission trips they have recently been on. We welcome your feedback on this and all Hearken content. International Exchanges Nearly 40 musicians from North America will travel to Finland this summer for the International Choir Camp, to be held at Reisjärvi Opisto at the beginning of August. Following a week-long camp, the group of singers from four countries will record a choral album in Espoo. The theme of the album and camp is Songs of the Journey. Planning for 2024 Language Camp is underway. The group from Finland, to be led by Pekka and Heidi Tuomikoski and Jukka and Sirpa Kolmonen, will begin their journey at LLC Summer Services in Longview, Wash. From there they will travel to Hasscib Lake Camp in Michigan for the camp portion of their trip. Following the camp, the group will travel through Southern Minnesota congregations, on to Colorado and then Prescott Valley. Over twenty young people plan to attend opistos in Finland this coming fall. Fourteen of them have received LLC Opisto Scholarships, and some have opted to pay their own way. Now is the time these applicants are navigating applying for residence visas. The requirements for this visa have recently changed, which has created challenges for some. We wish all the applicants God’s blessings now already during this time of preparation and on into their opisto year! You can support the opisto program by donating to the Opisto Fund. Go to llchurch.org/donate to make your gift. Any donations made before the end of April will benefit this coming year’s scholarship recipients. Now is also the time to apply for scholarships for the 2025–2026 opisto year! We are now accepting applications, for which the due date is May 15, 2024. You can find the application at llchurch.org/opisto-scholarship-program

Keith Kariniemi | The Voice of Zion March 2024 - Home & Family Article -- Citizenship refers to the behavior that is exhibited by people who are citizens, often in terms of the duties, obligations, and responsibilities that come with being a citizen. God’s children are unique among the peoples of the world in that we are citizens of two kingdoms. We share the citizenship of our temporal kingdom, or our home country and its government, with those around us. However, we are also, and much more importantly, citizens of God’s kingdom, and we share that spiritual citizenship with all of God’s children, wherever they may reside. While we cannot separate these two, we are in the world but not of the world (John 17:14), the focus here is on the believer as a citizen of the world. Temporal Kingdoms Are Subject to God In approaching temporal citizenship as believers, it is good to begin by considering that all governments are subject to God. God’s Word is clear on this matter, as the following portion of Colossians relates: “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist” (Col. 1:16,17). Therefore, all citizens need to remember that our governments have been instituted by God and for His purposes, including to provide order and security in our societies. While we may not understand why certain types of governments exist, why actions or inactions by our governments take place or do not take place, which we may find agreeable or disagreeable, we as God’s children find comfort in trusting that God is ultimately in control of all things, including our governments. We are reminded of the smallness of our thoughts and our understandings in Isaiah: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (55:8,9). Therefore, we are instructed, in the end, to put aside our own ways, thoughts and understandings and simply trust in our dear heavenly Father, praying that His will is done. God’s Word shows how various governments and authorities of this world have been used by God for His purposes. We see this in countless examples in Scripture: the Pharoah and the children of Israel enslaved in Egypt, the story of Joseph and his role in government, the anointing of King Saul, King Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian captivity, Herod, Pontius Pilate and the Roman Empire and their roles during Jesus’ life, etc. Throughout human history, God has instituted various governments to serve His purposes, some we may understand, and many we do not. However, it is not important that we understand, but rather that we simply believe God’s Word in this. While we here in North America live under governments much different than those of these examples, we still, as God’s children always have followed God’s Word. Even today, we believe that our governments, no matter our personal opinions concerning their policies or actions, have been instituted for God’s purposes. A portion of Scripture that relates to this point is found in Isaiah, where God encourages the children of Israel enslaved during the Babylonian captivity to trust that His purposes will be served. “And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their face toward the earth and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me” (49:23). And, continuing, “But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children” (v. 25). What great comfort is found here, where God reminds that He is in control and that His purposes, in this case the Babylonian captivity, are for the good of His children. In approaching our temporal citizenship and the responsibilities that come with it, we affirm that God knows all, and God sees all. God knows that we live under governments that are democratic in nature, wherein some powers and responsibilities lie with the citizens, perhaps most evident through voting. These types of governments require citizens to engage and work together, something that can be difficult for a believer, even a great trial, especially during these highly politicized and polarized times. The trials and tribulations that may rise from being a citizen in this world are known to our dear heavenly Father, and He has promised to always care for us, even to the end. All things are for His purpose, even governments built and administered by humans: “For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God” (Heb. 3:4). How comforting it is to trust that temporal authority must always yield before God; indeed, it is always subject to Him. Responsibilities of Believers to Society and the World around Us In considering the responsibilities of the believer in today’s democratic societies, perhaps it is best to start with love. We remember how Jesus simplified the law into two commandments, with the first, and the greatest, being “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind” (Matt. 22:37). He followed that with the second, saying, “And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (v.39). We understand that the neighbor Jesus speaks to is any person that we interact with, in whatever way that interaction takes place, whether a fellow citizen in God’s kingdom or a fellow citizen in the society around us. While God’s Word provides us much instruction and encouragement concerning the special and holy relationship between His children, God’s Word also speaks to the relationship between His children and the world around them. Love is the starting point for that relationship. The love that Jesus refers to is that love that comes from God; it is not a love derived from man. It is the love that is born of the Holy Spirit, whereby God’s love for each of His created people resides in the heart of the believer. It is God’s love that encourages and instructs us to “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt. 5:44). We understand that each of God’s created people has an undying soul, and each will one day need to stand before God to be judged. It is our heart’s desire, from God’s Holy Spirit that resides there, that all people would believe, so that they would one day hear, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matt. 25:34). Our unbelieving neighbors, including those citizens of society around us, are only a repentance away from citizenship in God’s kingdom. God’s love for the undying soul of mankind causes us to approach others in society around us in such a way that God’s love shines through. This same idea is encapsulated in the Golden Rule where Jesus says, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” (Matt. 7:12). When we consider what is the paramount desire we have from others, we simply want others to preach that Gospel message to us, forgiving us our many sins and journey faults. Our heart’s desire is that we are then able to believe that wondrous message, that all sins and offenses caused or taken are forgiven in Jesus’ name and precious, atoning blood. We certainly want to preach this gospel message to all; it is a responsibility that we have as citizens of God’s kingdom (the Baptismal Command). However, it is nonetheless essential for the child of God that they are able to forgive even those who do not believe for trespasses committed. Jesus makes this clear to us, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matt. 6:14,15). We want to endeavor to love others as God loves us, where we forgive even our enemies and those who harm us by their trespasses against us. We want to love those around us in society, those who we share temporal citizenship with, and our greatest love for them is found in forgiving them, as God forgives us. It is then this foundation of love, which comes from our citizenship in God’s kingdom, which leads and guides our temporal citizenship. In our interactions with others, even concerning politics (the organizing of society, including government), we want to always approach others in love, and we also want to always approach in truth as well. God’s love and God’s truth. The most important matter in our lives is living faith, keeping faith and good conscience, and we cannot forget this when we engage with our temporal citizenship. We are reminded, “Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth” (Col. 3:2). We also cannot set faith aside when we practice our temporal citizenship; our citizenship in God’s kingdom, and the responsibilities therein, always come before, and guide, our temporal responsibilities. We need to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). For example, we are instructed to “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). We are reminded here that all our interactions with those in society around us, including regarding our governments and those in our governments, ought to reflect our spiritual citizenship. We have the responsibility as citizens in this world to be that light onto the world, that light which may draw those in unbelief unto living faith. The good works that are spoken of here are not of us, but they are of God’s Holy Spirit. It is also, in approaching temporal citizenship in this manner, that the truth of God’s Word may become manifest: “walk as children of the light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth:) proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them” (Eph. 5:8). When we keep faith and good conscience, as children of God within two kingdoms, our actions (and inactions) provide the rebuke those around us need, and that exhortation to repentance. This call to God’s kingdom is the greatest love we can show to those in unbelief around us. God knows all the difficulties that His children face, including those that arise from being citizens of both kingdoms, and His Word provides us comfort in the face of such difficulties, most often by reminding us of that which is most important: our citizenship in His kingdom. “And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled…For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing” (1 Pet. 3:13,14,17). We are reminded here that the only thing that matters, in the end, is keeping faith and good conscience. We cannot be so troubled by the things happening in society around us, the harms that are inflicted upon us, that our worries, doubts, and fears end up causing us to give up the gift of faith. It is good that we place all our cares, doubts, worries and fears into the hands of our loving and merciful heavenly Father; He has promised to care for each one of His children, no matter what we face in this world, no matter what type of society or government around us. While our temporal citizenship is important, it is nothing compared to our citizenship in God’s kingdom. May we all keep faith and good conscience, holding dear to that hope of heaven! Citizenship Is Serving Carl Harju We hear that we are citizens of two realms, God’s kingdom and the world. Both realms depend on the labor of citizens to move forward. In addition to serving our families and close neighbors, believers serve in different capacities within the congregation. We are encouraged and happy to do so. We also can serve in different capacities in our communities. This is good citizenship. We may serve by volunteering for an organization that has touched our lives in some way. We may have an interest or even a passion for their cause. Some of these organizations may include various charities, emergency services, or government. Some of the most well-known examples of believers from the Bible serving in these capacities would include Joseph and Daniel and his three friends. In God’s kingdom we rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit speaking through the congregation for many decisions. When serving in society we rely on logic and knowledge to make decisions. Serving in these capacities may come with personal benefits. We may learn new skills. For instance, my years as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician on my city’s ambulance led me to a career in nursing. Serving on the city council and as mayor taught me to listen and to seek to understand others’ viewpoints before making decisions. Community service can also be used to combat loneliness or too much idle time. There are moments in my service where I may have to withhold my personal beliefs. For example, I personally believe drinking alcohol would jeopardize my faith. However, my community has decided they want alcohol available to them and have established limits and criteria for a business to be able to sell alcohol. If a retailer has met those criteria, as mayor, I am obligated to sign their permit. I do not feel I need to speak on the dangers of alcohol at each council meeting or to each retailer. I hope that God’s Word and the Holy Spirit would enlighten my conscience and guide my actions, even when I am serving my community. I pray that my words and actions would reflect positively on God’s kingdom. I serve with the desire to help my neighbors and with the hope that future generations will continue to find my community a safe place to live and work. Discussion Question: What does it mean to you personally to be a citizen of your nation? What are some of the duties and responsibilities of your temporal citizenship? What actions do you take because of these? What experiences do you have in keeping faith and good conscience as a citizen of the kingdom of heaven while also engaged in activities as a citizen of this world? How do you let your light shine unto the world? How has it been for you in trusting that governments and persons of authority are subject to God? What things make it easier or more difficult to keep this trust? How has it been for you in remembering to love your neighbor, including those who serve in government? How do we keep our spiritual citizenship as the most important matter in our lives? Read John 17:15. What does this Bible passage mean for believers?

Carey Simonson | The Voice of Zion March 2024 - What Does the Bible Say Article -- Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. – Matthew 5:4 When and where were these words spoken or written? On a hill near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus spoke these words, now referred to as His Sermon on the Mount. This particular verse comes from the beginning portion of the sermon, known as the Beatitudes, in which Jesus describes nine types of blessed people, e.g., “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (Matt 5:3). The verse for our study explains that those that mourn are blessed because they will be comforted. What kind of mourning was Jesus talking about? People who were listening to Jesus’ sermon would have been familiar with the Jewish ritual of mourning. The Jews would usually bury their dead on the day they died (Deut. 21:23, Lev. 10:4, and Act 5:5–10), and the family and loved ones of the deceased would then observe a period of mourning, which was typically seven days. For example, Joseph mourned for his father Jacob for seven days (Gen. 50:10), Job’s friends mourned with him for seven days (Job 2:11–13), and the Children of Israel mourned for Moses for 30 days (Deut. 34:8). What did that period of mourning look like? During the period of mourning, there would be much weeping and outward show of emotion. Mourners might tear their clothes, put on sackcloth, shave their heads, sprinkle their heads with ashes or dust, fast and wail (e.g., Gen. 37:34, Job 1:20, Ecc. 4:1–3). Sometimes professional mourners were hired to enhance the mourning and may have been present when Jesus awoke Jairus’ 12-year-old daughter from the dead “And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly” (Mk. 5:38). The purpose of this mourning was to comfort the family and loved ones of the deceased. Many neighbors and loved ones would gather at their home and not leave their side while they mourned. Did Jesus mourn? This is evident in the events surrounding Lazarus’ death: “And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother”; “The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there;” “When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled” and “Jesus wept” (John 11:19,31,33,35). We see that Jesus, as true man, also felt sorrow over the loss of His dear friend Lazarus. Therefore, Jesus is able to empathize and help us when we are grieving (Heb. 4:15). In fact, Jesus could remove all sorrow and grieving from our life and heal all sickness and diseases (Matt. 4:23–24), even raise a person from the dead (John 11:43–44). Rather than end all difficulties, Jesus often sends His dear children, fellow believers, to be with us and to comfort us when we are mourning. We are fortunate to have this love and support here in God’s kingdom. What did Jesus hope His listeners would learn from this Beatitude? Jesus wanted to use this temporal image of mourning to teach a spiritual lesson. The Jews knew that a person who was mourning would receive comfort from their neighbors and loved ones. In the same way, one who is mourning over committed sin can receive help and comfort from Jesus. Jesus wanted to teach the listeners that a person grieving over sin can receive comfort when they believe their sins forgiven. Isaiah wrote, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the  Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified” (61:1–3). When the Holy Spirit reveals to a person their sin, it causes sorrow. This sorrow is replaced by joy when the sinner hears and believes the preaching of the gospel of the forgiveness of sins from God’s kingdom (2 Cor. 7:10). The sinner then joins in the words of Hezekiah king of Judah: “Thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back” (Isa. 38:17). What is the message of this for believers today? When we remain believing in this way, holding faith and a good conscience (1 Tim. 1:19), one day our temporal and spiritual sorrows will end when eternity dawns. In faith, we wait for that day. This writing tells how mourners acted in Jesus’ time. How can we today know or see that someone is in mourning? What are the outward signs of this? What reasons do people today have to mourn? In what way do we or should we mourn over our sins? What comfort is available when we mourn in this way? What image of eternity is found in SHZ 600? What kinds of comfort are offered to those who mourned here on earth?

The Voice of Zion March 2024 - Editorial -- As we journey through life, we encounter trials, losses, death and disappointment that evoke deep sorrow and grief. Yet mourning is not a burden, nor is it an obstacle to faith. Mourning is not in contrast with Christian life, but rather central to it. Ecclesiastes teaches us that there are times in life set aside for mourning. God has planned these seasons for our benefit. As we mourn, we express our emotions and thoughts that rise from grief. We have customs that indicate we are expressing such feelings, and our expression also enables others to feel and show their grief and loss. These customs have evolved around symbols, cultural and biblical. In Old Testament times, the town of Nineveh repented. The king of Nineveh wore sackcloth and sat in ashes to demonstrate his sorrow over sin (Jonah 3:6). Yet today we humans are slow to comprehend our sinfulness and incapable of completely understanding death and resurrection. Jesus’ own sorrow and pain is remembered at the time of Lent, and His suffering is reflected in the ashes, dark colors and minor key in music we see and hear at events during this season. These same symbols repeat when mourning a loved one. We humans need this outward signaling to help us comprehend death, sin and Jesus’ suffering for human salvation. This time of Lent is a time of solemn reflection and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. The words of Jesus in the Beatitudes take on added significance: “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted” (Matt. 5:4). During Lent, we are called to examine our hearts, acknowledge our sins and repent of them. It is a time when we confront the brokenness and imperfections within ourselves and the world around us, and we find ourselves mourning over our own failings and the effects of sin. Yet even in the midst of our mourning, we are reminded we are blessed. Our mourning does not go unnoticed by our heavenly Father. He sees our tears and hears our cries, and in His infinite mercy, He promises comfort to those who mourn. What, then, is the comfort that is promised? It is not merely the temporary solace offered by earthly comforts but the deep, abiding consolation that comes from God Himself. As believers, we find comfort in the promises of God’s Word, particularly in the gospel message of Jesus Christ. This comfort sustains us in our darkest moments; nothing can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Mourning teaches us humility and dependence on God. It reminds us of our fragility as human beings. It humbles us before the Almighty and draws us into deeper reliance on His strength and grace. It also teaches us empathy and compassion for others who are suffering, enabling us to bear one another’s burdens and fulfill the commandments of Christ. Our mourning is never in vain. It is a sign of humanity, our capacity to love deeply and our longing for wholeness. As believers, we are called to bring our sorrows and burdens to Christ, who bore the weight of our sins and suffered on our behalf. In His suffering, we find solidarity with our own suffering, knowing that He understands our pain and promises to walk with us through it. This season of the church year and those seasons of mourning in our life are important gifts from God because they awaken us to our own sinfulness, promote within us reflection and guide us to rely on God’s mercy. These seasons can also awaken those outside God’s kingdom to realize their sinful state and to seek God’s grace.

February 14, 2024 Every month, tens of thousands of people search the internet for information on where to find the kingdom of God, what repentance means, and how to find forgiveness for their sins. A new website answers this need. The new website, dedicated to international mission work of Laestadian Christianity, is now live at https://kingdomofpeace.net. The project is supported by the central organizations SRK (Suomen Rauhanyhdistysten Keskusyhdistys, Central Association of Finnish Associations of Peace), LLC (Laestadian Lutheran Church), and SFC (Sveriges Fridsföreningars Centralorganisation, Central Organization of Sweden’s Associations of Peace). The purpose of the website is to make instruction according to God’s Word accessible to people around the world interested in matters of faith and to invite them to hear the Word and to personal repentance. The project stems from the observation that people around the world turn to the internet for answers to fundamental questions of faith. SRK and LLC also regularly receive inquiries. The increasing number of people seeking peace is evidenced by the rapid expansion of mission work in recent years into new countries and regions, especially in Africa and Asia. The Website Needs Visitors SRK’s Mission Work Director Miika Kopperoinen describes the content of the site: “The site contains both doctrinal content and personal narratives in the form of images, texts, audio and videos. The goal is that in the future, the site will also offer real-time sermons in different languages. In the initial phase, the site and its content are only in English, but in the future, it will also serve visitors in other languages.” The aim is to add pages in the near future in French and Spanish, among other languages. The more language versions the site has, the more seeking individuals it can reach. Website visibility will be improved through search engine optimization. This will aim to raise the kingdomofpeace.net site to be among the first search results for certain keywords entered by those looking for information. Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube accounts have also been set up to support the purpose of the site with posted content that will guide peace seekers to the website. “To attract the attention of search engine algorithms and to offer its content to as many people interested in matters of faith as possible, the site needs visitors, and therefore it’s worth sharing the link,” adds Kopperoinen. A Long but Rewarding Project The development of the website is managed by a group consisting mainly of volunteers. “It feels fantastic now. A three-year effort is behind us,” enthuses Annika Impiö, who has been involved in the project since the beginning. According to Annika, the idea for the site came from multiple sources simultaneously. Impiö took action and designed the structure and content of the site. A significant portion of the work put into developing the website, such as its graphic design, has been donated. “The goal was to create a bright, hopeful color palette.” The logo of the website was created by graphic designer Ossi Gustafsson. “We wanted a moderate, message-supporting logo. It features a crossroads and a cross. The color scheme reflects global diversity, representing different continents and cultures,” explains Antti Halonen. Everyone Can Participate Halonen joined the project during the content-production phase about a year ago. He emphasizes that with the website, believers can now better participate in international mission work: “Previously, people perhaps prayed on behalf of mission work. Going forward, they can also participate by sharing the website link or a social media update, for example.” Halonen highlights the service aspect: “We want to avoid the impression that the website is a distant project of central organizations. In the working group, we see this as a platform serving individual people, through which anyone interested in matters of faith anywhere in the world can find an ordinary believer to talk to. If a visitor is from Tanzania, for example, they can find a conversation partner who is a believing person from somewhere like Kenya. Contact can be made either through the website or social media channels.” Mission Work via Digital Means Impiö points out that the project reinforces previous mission work done in digital channels. “We aim, through digital means, to help those seeking forgiveness find the joyous message of the gospel and fellowship with believers. That’s aided by having users visit the site. Go visit the website, like it and share it in your networks—it’s digital mission work.” Impiö is delighted that even through this project, the work of the Kingdom of God expands worldwide according to the mission command. Halonen sums it up: “The most important project on earth.” Website: https://kingdomofpeace.net YouTube: @kingdomofpeaceonearth Facebook: Kingdom of Peace on Earth Instagram: Kingdom of Peace on Earth For more information: - SRK Mission Work Director Miika Kopperoinen, miika.kopperoinen@srk.fi, +358 50 3309986 - LLC Mission Work Director Adrian Pirness, adrian.pirness@llchurch.org, +1 763 3600820

Auli Niemi | The Voice of Zion February 2024 - Home & Family Article -- It is with a heavy, yet thankful heart that I reminisce of our sweet niece’s passing, and of how our congregation helped get us through. One’s home congregation has a special spot in everyone’s heart. For many it is a place of comfort and solace when life’s trials come. It is a place where we share each other’s joys when blessings are given. We, too, in Toronto have experienced the love and support of God’s kingdom. Evelyn Mae Koski was born August 12, 2014, a much loved and awaited child. She was the eighth child born to Matt and Liisa Koski. She loved nature and the outdoors and loved making crafts or drawings for her parents and dear ones. She was a little mother to her older sister Lidia, who has Down syndrome, always caring for her and making sure Lidia’s needs were met. She also played often with her younger brother Orrin. In her short life, she was sunshine in their home, a beam that shone love. I remember getting a text message from my sister-in-law Liisa, asking for prayers. She said she had an awful suspicion and fear that something is not right with Evelyn. She had started having issues with her balance, eyesight and had been falling behind in school. They had taken her to the eye doctor, who confirmed that something wasn’t right. The family doctor had ordered an expedited MRI; however in our impatience and concern, we encouraged them to just go to emergency, which would fast-track medical care. On Good Friday of 2022, they took Evelyn to Barrie Hospital to get her an MRI. I’m sure it took accepting for Matt and Liisa to hear the news. They shared with us only that they had to take her to a children’s hospital in Toronto to confirm the diagnosis. But we suspected something was very wrong. We got texts like, “We’re not ready to give up our little Evelyn.” We were all so fearful. That Saturday seemed so long. Evelyn spent the day in the hospital, undergoing test after test. On Easter Sunday we got confirmation of our fears. Evelyn was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer, DIPG, or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. There was no cure, the doctors said, but treatments could perhaps prolong her life by months. It all seemed unbelievable. We had, it seemed, a constant prayer to our heavenly Father, to spare their family – our extended family – of this grief, and to find some sort of miracle cure. At our Easter services, Dean Simonson from Saskatchewan encouraged us in his sermon to not ask why, but to pray for acceptance of God’s will. The next days and weeks were a blur of treatment arranged for Evelyn, to try to shrink the tumor. Matt and Liisa went downtown weekly, for her treatments, and to arrange doctors’ and nurses’ visits and other necessary items so Evelyn could come home. We arranged a Go Fund Me, in hopes that Matt could stay home and help care for Evelyn during her last few months. God blessed this effort, and we were so thankful that it materialized. We were shown much kindness. The following months were heavy emotionally. The whole family got together to care for Evelyn, read her books and keep her happy. She didn’t know of her condition; her parents chose not to tell her just yet. Their son Orrin sensed something wasn’t right. He knew she was sick. He asked, “Mom, is Evelyn going to die?” Evelyn heard and, in her innocence, piped up, “No, I’m not gonna die, I’m only 7 years old!” In her thoughts, only old people died. Treatments and trips to the hospital downtown continued, and they were exhausting. God gave strength and hope, and when the trips ended, we waited for a respite period, where Evelyn may have a few months symptom-free before the cancer came back in a more aggressive form. Her older brother bought her a brand-new bike for her birthday, which hung in the garage for her to ride when she felt better. She was so excited to try it out. She also wished to play soccer. However, this was not to be. During treatment, the tumor shrank, but unfortunately the radiation went too deep and affected her right side. She was weak, almost as if paralyzed on that side. She had beautiful days too, spent in the yard in her wheelchair. Our home congregation was so very supportive and kind! Meals were arranged to be delivered to the family’s house and many prayers were said on their behalf and kind messages were sent! Members of the community showed much kindness as well. Matt has worked for over 30 years in the same facility as a diesel mechanic and knows many clients. The diesel truck community wanted to help in some way, so they organized a drive-by with their trucks. I remember that day: Evelyn eagerly waited for them in her wheelchair. She waved to them as they went by in their polished and decorated trucks. There must have been 100 trucks. It was so touching! They had gifts for her, as well as get-well wishes and balloons on the side of their trailers and dump boxes. The local fire department also arranged a drive-by, with their sirens and lights flashing. The fire fighters stopped to talk to Evelyn and then continued. Many people helped in innumerable ways – this touched the hearts of all of us. Neighbors dressed up in different costumes every morning as they went outside to put their other children on the bus, to cheer them up. Paramedics collected fishing gear and a tackle box for Evelyn, as she loved to spend time at the cottage and fish. Her school bus driver attached a big orange ribbon onto her bus, and the teachers tied orange ribbons on trees from their house to the school, showing their support. Orange and blue were Evelyn’s favorite colors. The school arranged a special assembly for Evelyn which was video recorded and played for Evelyn. In the local area, people unknown to the family tied orange ribbons to trees in their front yards. Little Evelyn touched the hearts of so many! Children’s Make-a-Wish foundation also was involved, and she wished for a puppy. She got an Irish setter and she named it Shadow. Shadow brought a lot of smiles. He was a calm puppy that got to spend some time on her bed with her, and she loved to pet his head. In the fall when school started, Evelyn was weak. She had whispered to her mom, “I don’t think I’ll go to school yet, I don’t even have my white board markers!” Evelyn lived in hope that she would get better. She was looking forward to Christmas and wanted to choose Christmas gifts to give her family. As she was too weak to go shopping, her older sister Martha helped her choose gifts online. When they were delivered to their home, Evelyn clutched them to her chest and excitedly waited for Martha to come home so they could hide them away. Cold and flus hit, and Evelyn’s siblings got sick. She constantly asked about them, concerned for them. She had such a kind and caring heart! Evelyn weakened, lost eyesight in one eye and developed other complications as well, but her pain was controlled. She continued to become more tired. In November, it became clear that Evelyn’s earthly journey wouldn’t be very long anymore, and we began preparing for the inevitable. I’m sure, as a parent, it’s the hardest thing we have to do. It’s difficult to accept that this is how this child’s life will go, despite fervent prayers. But as in everything, we can only humbly pray, “Thy will be done.” Throughout Evelyn’s illness, many family and congregation members visited her, each hoping their visits would give strength to Matt and Liisa and their family, as well as to Evelyn herself. Many prayers were said on their behalf. We are truly blessed to have escorts on our journey, to have so many dear travel friends! When we go through these trials in life, God helps us to get though them by sending escorts. It is a gift of value we can’t fathom. Often in trying times, we feel that we are at the end of our rope, feeling hopeless, and then God sends someone – earthly angels show that He hasn’t forgotten us. They lift us and carry us when we feel weak. On November 24, we read on our family chat, “Evelyn’s earthly journey is almost over. She is at peace, surrounded by her family.” Our hearts lurched: now the time is here. Instantly our chat was filled with heartfelt support and prayers. Some families sang songs for her. How comforting they all are, these sweet songs of Zion, with such precious words: “There are treasures for children in heaven above,” and “Cast all your care and sorrow,” “Safe in the arms of Jesus,” and also “Heav’nly Father, God of all”. Also, “Lord, as I close my eyes to rest,” such a familiar evening song and prayer that so many of us sing to our kids in the evening. Singing in this way was very emotional, it helped us feel like we were at Evelyn’s bedside with her immediate family. We strongly felt the need to be with Matt and Liisa and their family in their time of deep sorrow. We wished to comfort them as best as we could, each from wherever we happened to be. Through our family chat we were able to share messages, songs and read Bible verses. It was truly so precious! So it was that on November 26, early in the morning, angels came for dear sweet Evelyn and she didn’t resist their call. Heaven gained a sweet new angel! Our hearts were so heavy, and yet also grateful that Evelyn no longer suffered here with illness. We prayed, “Dear Father, please take good care of our precious Evelyn! Keep her in your tenderest care until we can get there. Grant her parents and family peace and acceptance, and strength to get though their darkest times.” We held Evelyn’s funeral on December 1, 2022. The church was filled with our dear congregation members and believers from other congregations. Also, many community members came, from Matt’s workplace, Evelyn’s older brothers’ work friends, and neighbors. Many marveled at the beautiful singing and at the large group of children. We tried to make little Evelyn’s last celebration as beautiful as we could. At Christmas, we all hung little angels on our trees, in memory of Evelyn. We will use these ornaments every year. Dear Evelyn, We hope you are kicking your soccer ball so high and running and biking with the gentle heavenly breezes in your hair. And fishing! May you be catching the biggest ones on heaven’s beautiful shores! May you be picking heaven’s beautiful flowers along golden paths, with so many cousins and dear ones that have gone before you! We miss you terribly Evelyn, and as November 26 comes closer, we can’t help but think of those precious songs and prayers that gave us comfort, and of you with your kind, sweet, caring heart. We have an anchor in heaven that gives us even more reason to endeavor here on earth! Some day we too, will reach heaven’s shores, if we keep putting our sins away, washing them in Jesus’ name and blood! We trust God has you in His perfect care, and long to see you again! Till we meet again, Sweetheart! Auli-täti Questions for Discussion A child’s death is difficult for our human minds to comprehend; why is this? For parents, a child’s death can be especially trying, even with the assurance of heaven. What factors might contribute to their grief? Think of a child’s death in the Bible; what parallels can we make to a child’s death today? How can a congregation help parents who lose a child suddenly and often privately through stillbirth or miscarriage? A child’s death that becomes known community-wide may serve to awaken and call those seeking to God’s kingdom. Discuss. What shapes and colors can grief take? How does grief shift over time?

Alexandra Glynn | The Voice of Zion February 2024 - Round the Table Article -- The word “Beatitudes” comes from a Latin root meaning “blessed,” and this is why the verses in Matthew 5:3–12 are called the Beatitudes. The things our flesh considers blessings are not the same as the things God calls blessed. For example, our flesh does not like torment and persecution, and yet in the Beatitudes we read that God considers these to be blessings. Proverbs 10:22 reminds us that “The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” In Philippians 1:12 we read how things intended as persecution turned into blessings. We can also recall how Balaam’s curses were blessings in Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. Sometimes one reads in the Bible sentence after sentence of blessing. For example, Deuteronomy 28, which Joshua is said to have also repeated (Josh. 8:34). The Psalms also begin with describing what it is to be blessed (Ps. 1). In Psalm 68:19, the Psalmist says God weighs us down with blessings constantly being poured out on us from His rich hands. How has your life been blessed? May God always bless us and keep us and make His face shine upon us! Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount Martin Pylvainen At a time God ordained, Jesus began His public ministry. Not all listeners were pleased when Jesus announced what He was called to do (Luke 4:18). Jesus began preaching and healing people. As John the Baptist preached before Him, His message was one of repentance: “Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt. 4:17). Jesus spoke about the need for an inner righteousness through personal repentance and hearing the gospel. Word of Jesus’ ministry spread, and soon great crowds of people followed Jesus, waiting to hear Him speak. Matthew 5:1 tells of this first great sermon: “And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them.” With this teaching, the old way of righteousness is turned on its head. Jesus begins this sermon with nine verses we know as the Beatitudes. He speaks of those being blessed or happy in a different way, a way contrary to human understanding. The blessings of believers were not wealth or authority and position among one’s community. Instead, Jesus spoke of the trials, weakness and shortcomings one has – but is yet blessed through the redemption work of Christ. The poor and hungry aren’t blessed because of these trials; they have joy and peace in the Holy Spirit and receive comfort and strength from the gospel of the kingdom. The Sermon on the Mount then describes how the law cannot be fulfilled by humankind, and then it tells of our duty to our neighbor. It instructs on giving of alms, prayer and fasting. It speaks about our relation to money and trusting God in our daily life. It ends with a warning about false prophets. Matthew (7:28,29) tells us the reaction to this sermon: “When Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”

The Voice of Zion February 2024 - Editorial -- What is sacred? Sacred refers to something – a place, an object, an event or text – that is set apart from the everyday, the common and secular. We approach and we treat sacred things with reverence and respect. In our belief system, they are of highest importance. What separates sacred things from the everyday? We believe things are made sacred by God and His Word. Things that God instituted, places to where God is summoned – these are sacred to us. In the sacred, we sense God’s presence, even when we can’t express with words what makes it sacred or holy. In our worship life, we occasionally are witness to or partakers in sacred acts. These are religious ceremonies that hold particular divine significance. One sacred act in our church’s Manual of Sacred Acts is marriage. Whether or not the wedding happens at a church, whatever number of guests are present in addition to the wedding couple, their witnesses and the minister, we always see this act as something instituted by God. Holiness is present there in the spoken Word of God, in prayers, readings and the recitation of vows, and through music and song. At a wedding, we witness the joining of two believers in holy matrimony. Matrimony means a commitment to one another, accompanied by a vow. In matrimony, a new family unit is formed, a new home congregation. All gathered ask God to bless this new family and new home congregation, its comings and goings, so it would adhere to the larger community of believers, which is God’s kingdom. We ask that this new family stay rooted in the communion of saints. What makes a wedding unique among other worship gatherings of God’s children is that it is planned by individuals and families. Even teenagers, very young believing adults, may be part of this planning effort. It is quite special that an individual family or an individual couple plans a church service. A wedding is often seen as a family or individual event, a place of personal expression. The couple and their families may want to express their personal tastes and heritage. Above all, we wish to express personal faith. How, then, do the believing wedding planners proceed? How should the event express its participants’ personal faith? This is realized when the attitude of the planners is that they are serving God’s kingdom and wish to please God in doing so. During the planning, we can ask for God’s blessings. We can visit with near ones and ministers and ask for advice. We take steps to ensure that bride and groom are given information and time to thoughtfully express wishes for the wedding. In a wedding, we serve God by coming to the sacred space where His children gather, participating in prayer, song and supplication. We bow our heads in acknowledgment that we need these elements in our lives to support and nourish us on our journey. At a wedding service, we above all are served by God, our rich Father in heaven. He provides the gifts of the Spirit that sustain us, who in ourselves are poor in spirit. From this, we learn to serve others with the gifts that God provides. The wedding couple also learns to serve one another and their near ones, constructing a model of how they will lead their lives in their home congregation. We can approach the task of planning a wedding service – and other services where God’s children gather – as we find ourselves, poor in spirit. We can allow the Holy Spirit to lead us to decisions that please God and thereby please us and our loved ones. Appropriate humility allows room to learn what God’s will is and what pleases Him. A humble spirit is a listening spirit. With joy, we can enter God’s portals as His free children and open our hearts to serve and be served.

Marty Wuollet | The Voice of Zion February 2024 - The Sabbath Word 4 Article -- Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O Lord, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old. Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake, O Lord. Good and upright is the Lord: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. – Psalm 25:1–10 Prayer has been part of the child of God’s life from the beginning. Throughout Scripture, many prayers and supplications have been recorded and they still sound relevant in our time. Perhaps this reinforces the idea that though the times and world have changed our human nature and place before God has not. David was likely going through a difficult time when he wrote this psalm. Many of David’s struggles are written about in Scripture, though we don’t know exactly what his trial was when he wrote this. He does, however, sound like he’s exhausted his strength and ability to deal with the concerns that he’s having. He then prays to God in faith, believing God not only can but will answer in love and truth, and restore his soul to peace through God’s mercy. As James reminds, “But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering” (1:6). From the Heart of a Child David’s prayer is personal, from him to God. From a child of God to the God who provides for the needs of his body and soul. Only onto God does he “lift up” his soul, or bear or expose the anguish of his soul. He confesses his trust and personal belief in “my God” showing ownership in the place as God’s child on the endeavor to heaven. And as a child he pours out his heart asking for strength to face his enemies, so he can confess his faith freely. He doesn’t want to be an offense unto God and has a reverent fear of God. Therefore, he asks God to show him and teach him, to lead him in the right way, the way of truth. In asking for guidance, he also feels his own unworthiness and begs God to remember the mercy that God had already bestowed on him. And remember not the sins of old, perhaps for the fear that now he may be left alone before the enemy because of the sins of his youth. Lastly he reflects again on the goodness of God toward pardoned sinners who humbly continue to live of God’s mercy and grace. We Fight the Same Battles David’s prayer sounds like it could have been the prayer of one of us today. We fight the same battle with the enemy of souls, even our own flesh. When confronted by this world, has it been easy for you to confess your faith? Have you felt ashamed to be a child of God before the eyes of the world? Does the evil of this world look like an unbeatable enemy? God wants us to pray, to turn to Him when our own fears and doubts prevail. He is your heavenly Father, your God who has promised to hear the prayers of His own. “This is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: and if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him” (1 John 5:14,15). In our prayers we ask for God’s guidance and teaching. We ask for strength to fight the enemy in our time and strength to do that which is right. We ask that God would reveal His righteousness unto this world that they would be ashamed for their own transgressions. Even though we are sinful we still thank God for His abundant mercy He has had for each of us, and much like David, the memories of our own sinfulness even bring doubts that God will care for us again. But by faith, even weak faith, we humbly plead and believe that God can and will answer our prayers. We Don’t Need to Know All the Answers Through Jesus, God gave us the gospel for the life and sustenance of our undying soul, so we could be freed from the anguish and torment that comes upon us as we travel to heaven. The gospel is also the spiritual food we need for living faith. When we believe like a little child, we can trust that God knows us by name, and cares for each one of us in our own place here on earth. We don’t know how God’s salvation plan for each of us will unfold, and many times our own understanding gets in the way and causes us to wonder and doubt as did David. Just as David reached out to God in prayer, we also have this blessing to unload our worries and fears to God in prayer. It allows us to “give up” or turn over the responsibility of knowing the right answer to all our questions. We ask that God would continue to lead and guide through His spirit and give us a heart to simply trust and believe, so we could make it to that promised home in heaven.