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Various Contributors | 2019 December Voice of Zion Angels are God’s messengers. There are many examples in the Bible of angels bringing messages to people, such as God’s promise to Abraham, to the virgin Mary, and to the shepherds caring for their flock by night. More than two thousand years ago, the angel Gabriel appeared before Mary, a young believing woman, with an astonishing proclamation. God had selected her for a very special role, unique in all the history of humankind. She, a virgin, would give birth to a son who “shall be called the Son of God,” of whose kingdom “there shall be no end.” Be Not Afraid Humans can be startled and even afraid when an angel appears. That is why the angel first says, “Do not be afraid.” But when the angel departs, the believer is reassured and comforted. Our daughter Katie was the bravest person I’ve ever known. She was diagnosed with cancer at seven years of age. She endured many surgeries, radiation treatments, medication and therapy in her short life. During the day she enjoyed lots of attention from family and friends, but at night she was lonely and fearful. An angel kept her company through the long nights, she reported. To her, congregational singing sounded like “the angels in heaven.” Angels exist not only in Bible stories; they also protect and guide us in our daily life. Martin Luther related that angels are truly around us in this life, providing for and guiding our affairs, if only we would believe it. “For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways” (Ps. 91:11). We can be assured that God’s angels are protecting us every moment, from that first spark of life in our mother’s womb to, indeed, “all thy ways.” This is so even beyond our last breath, when we finally reach our destination in heaven. Shining and Clad in White The stereotypical mental image I have of an angel is a tall, handsome figure clad in pure white, with a graceful aura of quiet majesty. A typical artist’s rendering would perhaps show the angel with wings, hovering above the ground. Wings or no, angels appearing in this way are mentioned in the Bible. When the women found Jesus’ grave empty on Easter morning, an angel dressed in white with a face shining like lightning was sitting on the stone that had once blocked the door. The angel relayed a message of hope to the women: “He is not here: for He is risen” (Matt. 28:6). At times, however, we may not recognize an angel for what they are. I think the Ethiopian eunuch would agree, puzzling over the book of Isaiah in his chariot by the side of the road. The Holy Spirit led Philip to talk to him, a conversation which led the seeking eunuch to see the way to heaven and believe. After the eunuch’s baptism, “when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:39). From the eunuch’s perspective, Philip certainly must have been an angel! “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Heb. 13:2). These angels on earth – our brothers and sisters in living faith – are escorts that help keep us on this narrow pathway to our mutual destination. With words of encouragement, comfort or rebuke, they bring the most comforting of all messages, that of the living gospel of Christ: “Believe all your sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and precious blood!” Angels of All Ages Human reason might lead us to think that a guiding angel would be an adult, perhaps an elder with advice formed from many decades of life experience. This may be the case, but just as often the angel comes as a little child with a simple comment or reminder. Perhaps it is your own child, or perhaps it is the youngster in the next bench over. Jesus reminds that a child is the most important in His kingdom on earth and has a special link to the Heavenly Father: “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 18:10). Our heavenly Father uses his angels in heaven and those angels that live among us to bring messages, support and comfort as we travel through our temporal life. We thank Him for this and all the gifts He bestows! Brent Huhta GOD CARES FOR HIS OWN THROUGH ANGEL ESCORTS The clay road was red and dusty under my feet. The tropical sun’s morning rays were already warming the earth, edging the day toward the hot afternoon ahead. I was not alone. My believing African escort, who had labeled himself my bodyguard, walked alongside me. As we ambled along, we visited. Sometimes we were trailed by laughing children, other times it was just the two of us. I was more than 7,000 miles from home in a country and culture that was strange and new. Yet in the midst of my worries and uncertainty, it was comforting to have my African escort nearby. We uplifted each other. Even though the label of “bodyguard” had been assigned lightheartedly, to me he felt like an angel. In his company, I was secure. Intermediaries between Heaven and Earth The Bible comforts us with the fact that angels do indeed exist both as intermediaries between the realms of heaven and earth, and also as earthly escorts on our journey (cf. Heb. 13:2). Although experiences in our time with angels of the “supernatural” type are exceedingly rare, there are numerous accounts of such throughout the Bible, from the book of Genesis to the Revelation of John. For example, many experiences with heavenly angels during the dawning moments of the New Covenant are described in the Gospels and in the Book of Acts. These confirm to us that God, in certain times and in certain places, has accomplished His work though heavenly angels according to His purposes. As travelers in faith, we often hear and sing about another kind of angel. These angels are our earthly companions who, through faith and mutual endeavor, take steps hand in hand with us on our journey. Have you, dear child of God, met such an angel? When doubts were heavy and sin pressed on you, were there angels nearby? Can we not rejoice that earthly angels were able to relate greetings from heaven? God Sent an Angel Escort Time passes, bringing a ceaseless flow of change to creation. Yet even after a decade, faded thoughts of that walk over reddish-clay earth still come to me. I lay on a hospital bed, hoping and praying for recovery after life-threatening, emergency surgery. My wife has been by my side every moment, day and night, but has finally taken a few hours to go home to see the children. In life, moments of worry, sorrow or despair occur along the way. This is one such moment: I’m alone now, and I’m down, way down. The room is so chilly. I close my eyes and try to doze. A moment later, I hear someone enter the room. I open my eyes, and though my vision is dim, I see a nurse approaching my bedside. The nurse gently and quietly spreads some heated blankets over my legs and feet, the warmth quickly penetrating. It feels good, but I’m still down. I look up at the nurse. His face lights with the joy of serving. In weakness, I beg the nurse to reassure me with the gospel, and vivid memories of the dusty road come flooding back. Through no strength of his own, the same angel who walked with me along those dusty African roads ten years earlier, preaches uplifting words: “All your sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood.” Joy and peace return. God cares for His own through angel escorts. Ignace Hounwanou, originally from Togo in west Africa, was granted a student visa in 2004 to study in the United States. He completed his Registered Nurse training and subsequently earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Washington. Ignace currently works at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, Washington. He and his wife Katie, née Niemela, live in Snohomish, Wash., with their four children. John Stewart DISCUSSION POINTS: 1.Psalm 103:20 says: “Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.” Whom do you suppose the angels are, in the writer’s eyes, and why? 2.The writer to the Hebrews speaks much of angels. Read the first two chapters. How does the writer compare Jesus with angels? 3.What other examples of angels are there in the Bible? 4.Have you ever experienced help or a message from an angel in your life?

Ross and Kayla Fredrickson | 2019 October-November Shepherd's Voice God gave Moses the task to go talk to Pharaoh about freeing the people of Israel and then after that to lead them back to the land of Canaan. Moses first said no. He said he was a poor speaker. But God promised to be with him and give him words to speak. Moses obeyed. Do you remember what the shepherd boy David said to Saul when he asked him to fight Goliath? Did he puff his chest and brag that he had killed a bear and a lion while caring for his father’s sheep? No, instead he said that God would deliver him from the hand of the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17). Of ourselves, we know that we are nothing. But God works in us and through us. God gave words and gifts for Moses to lead the people of Israel. He also helped David defeat Goliath. If someone at school asks how you believe, God will give words for you to speak. He gives as He sees fit. The devil may try to tempt us and make us think we’re better than other people. The only difference between us and the people around us is that we have the gift of faith. This doesn’t make us any better, but we’re the most fortunate to have this gift. We want to share this gift with our friends and neighbors. They too can believe their sins forgiven when the gospel is preached. Maybe you are good at riding bike or maybe you’ve done well in your classes at school. However, it is good to remember to be humble in such things. Being humble means accepting that all good things and good gifts are a blessing from God. We use these gifts not to emphasize how good we are, but rather to serve others and show honor to God. We accept that we are weak and faulty, and we need help and prayers and support from others. We need the gospel to help us in our life of faith. The opposite of being humble is being overly proud. We can take pride in accomplishments and at the same time humbly thank our Heavenly Father for all blessings. God’s Word teaches, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (James 4:6). We pray that God will help us to be humble and remain in faith. Let’s remember each other in our prayers. Ross and Kayla Fredrickson THINGS TO VISIT ABOUT: 1.Read about the shepherd boy David in LLC’s Illustrated Home Bible, page 128. How was David able to fight Goliath? 2.Why is it important to be humble and not proud? Why should we pray for this? 3.It is easier to be humble when our sins are forgiven. Why is this?

Mark Pikkarainen | 2017 August Voice of Zion Free from Sin Do you remember how good it felt as a child, when the forgiveness of sins in Jesus’ name and blood was preached by mom or dad for something that you had done that was wrong? Was it not a good feeling to know that you were free of that heavy burden of sin that weighed on your conscience? There was no question that the sin was washed away in Jesus’ name and blood. The burden and sin was gone, forgiven and forgotten! Throughout life, sin can accumulate and weigh us down on our journey of faith. We are bombarded every day with news from around the world of horrible atrocities, rumors of war, and the temptations of the world in all manner and form. We are exposed daily to temptations at school, work, and even with friends, as the devil works tirelessly to lure us away from living faith that offers so much comfort and security. It might feel unsettling if we hear our parents or others talking about troubling matters at church and with believers. It may at times feel hopeless, and we may begin to worry: Will I be able to remain believing in the safety and care of God’s kingdom? Will I make it to heaven? Do Not Fear Dear child of God, fear not! Jesus has died for our sins and has promised to provide a place in heaven for us if we keep faith and a clean conscience. It is that simple! “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). We don’t have to worry about what is happening in the world, at work, at school, with friends or family, or in other issues or troubling matters. We can turn our burdens to Him and be free. When sins are forgiven, we can believe as a child. Unchanging Doctrine The devil is always busy raising questions about the teachings of God’s Word, even the core doctrine that we have known since children, the forgiveness of sins. There is no better nor secure place to be than in the middle of the flock of believers, rather than out on the edge where the devil moves around seeking whom he can devour. What can be easier and more secure than to simply believe as a child, putting sin away? What a comforting feeling it is, knowing that if we were to die, we would be in heaven forever! Is there anything that you can think of that you would be willing to exchange for eternal life in heaven? Is this not the assurance that we believers all live and strife for? Is this assurance available through unbelieving friends at school, at work, or through anyone else in this sin-corrupt world? Do we with our own reason need to understand all of the mysteries of faith in order to make it to heaven? No, we do not. All that is required is that we simply believe, keeping faith and a clean conscience, nothing else. Escorts Preach Forgiveness Remember dear young, and also older child of God, when the worries and weight of sin beset you, put that sin, doubt, fear, and worry away through the simple gospel message, believing sins and doubts forgiven in the name and blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We have beautiful escorts in God’s kingdom who willingly preach the forgiveness of sins through the power of the Holy Spirit. “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). Freely offer this gospel, also to those who do not own this gift of faith. What better and more secure feeling is there than knowing that your sins are forgiven and that you are a child of God? This gospel message is preached openly and freely. In God’s kingdom, we do not travel alone but are united within a flock of believers who are together striving to make it to heaven one day. Jesus teaches in His Sermon on the Mount that we don’t have to worry about tomorrow because our Heavenly Father takes care of us (Matt. 6:25–32). If we keep faith and a clean conscience, our good and gracious God will care for us on the way to heaven. Mark Pikkarainen Discussion Points: 1. What can happen if one ignores the grace-gift of confession? 2. How can we encourage one struggling in faith, who may question the truth of God’s Word? 3. What does God’s Word say about our role as a confessor mother or father, a friend? 4. Share joys you’ve experienced, when God has given strength to care for your conscience and put sin away. 5. Sing song of Zion #306 and discuss its meaning in your life.

Various | 2017 April Voice of Zion There has been a considerable amount of chatter about the newly established girls’ home in Monticello, Minnesota. It has been positive and exciting! God answered many prayers and provided the necessary gifts to make this happen. The Building Hope home is not an LLC project, but it certainly captures the interest of many, including the LLC’s Home and Family committee. What a beautiful blessing. Betsy Simonson, Jessica Kallinen, and Kelsey Huhta have a home filled with faith, hope, and love! Could any of us ask for anything more in this life as we journey toward our eternal home in heaven? The establishment of this homes speaks of God’s love and the simplicity of living faith. These writers and photographers shared what they felt, saw, and experienced and allow us also to feel the joy of this new venture. Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever” (Phil. 4:19,20). Rod Nikula Building Hope, Inc.—Need becomes Reality Building Hope, Inc. is a private non-profit corporation established on May 5, 2016 with the mission of providing support services to believing adults and children with varying physical and cognitive abilities. Tarja Brown, of Litchfield, Minnesota, is its Executive Director. “I think that services for the children or loved ones of believers has been a need for many years in God’s kingdom,” she says. The need has now become a reality. The first such home, located in Monticello, Minn., provides services to three women who are renting the home. The Work Began Much work goes into the organization of such a venture. Three sets of parents initially got together and invited four others to assist them, forming the board. Brown, who is currently employed in this field, was asked to be on the board, bringing approximately 20 years of experience to the group. Building Hope also needed to be registered with the IRS and the State of Minnesota as a 501C3 charitable organization. It needed to be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services as an organization that would provide services either to adults living on their own or adults and children living with their families. A suitable home needed to be found, as well as believing staff. Brown says, “The home is the home of our clients and is a believing home. Staff are there to assist them in everyday matters of life. This is their home, and we are there to serve them with love.” Staff provides services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, thus enabling the women to live and work in the community, to have friends and family over, or to go to visit other believers. Future Plans Future plans for Building Hope are to ex­­pand services to include other believing brothers and sisters who may have need for these types of services in this area. A letter written by Curt Simonson, chairman of the board, went out to nearby congregations, expressing Building Hope’s mission and how it might help to provide a service and answer questions about the organization. “We believe every life is a blessing from God and should be valued, protected, and cherished. Our hope is that all who serve and are served by Building Hope can enjoy a pleasant atmosphere each day along the journey to heaven,” the letter states. God Has Blessed Brown says that being part of this endeavor has brought her much joy. Many prayers have also risen to the Heavenly Father to guide the footsteps of those involved. “God has richly blessed us, and all thanks go to God for the success we have had,” she says. Kathy Nevala A New Home, a New Life When we moved to Monticello almost two years ago, I had the pleasure to get to know Betsy Simonson. Betsy found out that we are related, and cousins are very important to her. Every Wednesday or Sunday at services, she seeks out her cousins and friends. She comes to greet, gives a hug, and lets us know how she is feeling. Faith is important to Betsy; she freely asks for the gospel. When her new home came to fruition, we heard something new about it every week. She was busy making plans and lists as to who could come to visit. Each week, she showed me who was on the list. Each week she had hope. Then the hope became true. The first week the girls were in their new home, Betsy invited me for coffee. I feel fortunate to live close by, and I was able to walk there. Betsy came running to the door to welcome me. She seemed a little shy. This was not the Betsy I had seen before. She told me she was nervous to have company. But in just a few minutes she relaxed and showed me around her new home. She had set the table, ready to serve coffee and cookies that she had baked. She introduced me to her new friends Jessica and Kelsey. Since the first visit, I eagerly wait to go to visit my new friends. I learn something new from them every time. Betsy and Jessica go to work Monday through Friday at Functional Industries in Buffalo. A bus picks them up every morning and drops them off in the afternoon. Kelsey will be starting a new job soon. The girls love to help with chores. Kelsey is good at cleaning. Betsy loves to bake. Jessica likes to wipe the table and counters. She is very detailed, and there is not a crumb in sight when she’s done. The girls are able to do their own laundry with some assistance. They also help plan menus. The girls have learned to work together. As with siblings, it isn’t easy to al­­ways get along. But the gos­­pel is most important. They take care of each other as believing friends do. Jessica loves to play with cards. She sorts them by color and number. The cards go everywhere with her. I have come to know Jessica as a happy-go-lucky girl. She is smiley, with a sense of humor. She loves to color, do puzzles, and play catch. She won’t let me forget anything. If I take my glasses off, she is worried about them until I put them back on. Kelsey has been teaching herself sign language. She likes to color and do word searches. She also loves to sing and play piano. She takes great care of her many dolls. Kelsey played a song for me that was in memory of her grandma Naemi Huhta. Kelsey says her grandma loved music. Weekend time feels good. Betsy says she can sleep in. The girls love to go on outings. Once a month they go to the library to take out books and CDs. Sometimes they go shopping and stop somewhere for tea. Sometimes they do crafts or bake. Kelsey says the best part about the weekend is that they can go to church on Sunday. The weekdays are routine: personal cares, getting ready for the work day, working, helping prepare supper, and favorite evening activities. An early bedtime is good. The girls like to go to Bible class or services on Wednesdays. Many evenings end with singing and saying the evening prayer together. All the girls love their new home. They look forward to each new day and like to know which staff will be on the next day. As night falls on this new home, we can be assured that tomorrow is a new day of grace and hope. Denise Nevala An Example of Faith Having the girls join our congregation has been a joy. As they’ve gotten to know us, they are sure to find us every church service to greet with “God’s Peace!” or give a welcoming hug. Our little kids keep tabs on them and whisper to us, “The girls are here!” One evening it was my husband’s turn to teach Bible Class. One of the girls came over and asked him if he was the teacher that evening. He confirmed, and she said, “I’m feeling tired tonight, can you forgive me in case I fall asleep in your lesson?” This freedom and simplicity of faith is a great example to our whole family. We feel blessed to have them be part of our congregation life. Ruth Kiviahde Girls Offer Important Connection It has been special to have the Building Hope girls attend our Monticello congregation events. We see them come with smiles on their faces, eager to connect with various people. They find their seats quickly and sing from their hearts. Sometimes at the beginning of Bible Class one of the girls has touched base with the Bible Class teacher, promising to listen and not fall asleep during the lesson. The small children as well as the older kids see and interact with the girls on a regular basis. Each of the girls has her own special way of connecting with different members of the congregation. Having them as part of our congregation reminds us that God has made us all a little different and has not made any mistakes. The girls come to church with the help of a staff member who works in their home. Many of the staff are familiar faces from our congregation and some are from neighboring congregations. It is important and fun to connect with the staff from other congregations, too. God has allowed the girls’ home to be in our congregation, and we are thankful for that. Perhaps Monticello or another congregation will be blessed with a boys’ home someday! Tim Kesti Parents Thankful for New Home, Too “I’m going to live here the rest of my life!” Betsy Simonson says to her mother Melba. The transition of three young women from their family homes and another group home into the Building Hope group home, in Monticello, Minn., has been very good. For over a year, parents Ron and Melba Simonson, Dean and Sharon Kallinen, and Ernest and Martha Huhta, along with the other Building Hope committee members, met to discuss and plan the opening of a group home for four girls. These meetings consisted of planning, organizing, and establishing Building Hope, Inc. All three parents alluded to the fact that the whole organization could not have moved forward without Tarja Brown’s professional assistance. Sharon Kallinen says, “It seemed to take forever.” A few years ago other parents met, but nothing materialized. “It just wasn’t meant to be at that time,” Melba explains. But in God’s time, the obstacles and hurdles resolved, and suddenly the group home was a go for November 1, 2016. “I was in denial,” Martha Huhta says, regarding her daughter’s need to live in a group home. The support from others, and Kelsey’s question, “How come I can’t move out and live with some girls?” helped her accept the idea of Kelsey moving into the home. For the first few days, Kelsey was quiet there. Then, she spread her wings and began to love it. The other housemates and staff members are now her “friends.” The Huhta family has relocated to Monticello from northern Minnesota. “It’s nice to live close by so we can stop there at a moment’s notice,” Martha says. “Jessica has really blossomed since she moved into her new place,” her mother Sharon says. Jessica had been living in another group home for ten years. After moving in, “it took me by surprise how easily she transitioned,” Sharon adds. Jessica seemed to sense the difference from the group home she was in to one where she is surrounded by believers. The parents all agree that the home is a wonderful, safe place where their girls can be independent. To be blessed with the gospel by the other girls in the home and from the staff members is a reassuring comfort. “It feels good to know that Betsy will have a place to live after we’re gone,” Melba says. Kayla Fredrickson

Paul Waaraniemi | 2017 January-February Shepherd's Voice A New Year—A New Start Have you ever heard a grown-up talk about making a New Year’s resolution? What do you think that big word resolution means? When used in this way, it actually means a promise. At the beginning of each new year lots of people make special promises to do, or not do, something for one whole year or longer. If, later in the year, you ask people who have made these resolutions whether or not they have kept their promises, they often admit that they have not. Some people have made important changes in their lives with a New Year’s resolution, though. Some of these kept promises are sticking to a healthy diet, getting more exercise, quitting smoking, saving money, and so on. Do you think you could keep a promise to yourself? A new year can be a good time to make a change, because when we’re saying goodbye to the old year, along with it, we can bid farewell to a bad habit, too. When we look at the calendar, we see that the new year has a new number. At Christmas time it was still 2016, now at the beginning of January it is 2017. A new year is a new start! If we have done something wrong, we can put it away by asking forgiveness and believing it forgiven in the name and blood of Jesus. What a wonderful thing! And we can have forgiveness at any time, not just at New Year’s. Sometimes, though, we do things that are not sin, but they are not good for us either. I think we can all think of something like that. How about eating too much candy, or not brushing our teeth every day? Now at the beginning of 2017, let’s think of some promises we could make to ourselves for the new year. I can think of a very important one—doing Sunday school, and regular school homework early when the teacher assigns it. We do a better job if we have enough time. Sunday school memory work is hard to remember if we don’t give ourselves time to practice. Another promise could be going on a candy strike—our dentists would like that! Mom, or the people who take care of us, would probably think promises to willingly take turns at dishes or housework would be a great New Year’s resolution. There are really fun resolutions kids can make too! How about playing piano every day or getting regular exercise? Writing in a journal or diary for 365 days in a row would give you quite a book at the end of the year. (Did you know that a year usually has 365 days?) Just think how much you would know if you read one poem or one page of a thick book every day! If you make a promise that lasts for a whole year, you have developed a new, good habit, one that you won’t have to break the next year. Like we said earlier, a new year can mean a new start! Make a New Year’s resolution and see how long you can keep a promise to yourself. Paul Waaraniemi Adapted from 1997 January/February Shepherds Voice

Janelle Huhta | 2016 November Voice of Zion “Thanks for Joy and Thanks for Tears” (SHZ 351) Thanksgiving is an official government holiday in both Canada and the U.S. with a variety of underpinnings, traditions, and meanings. For some, it’s a work-free day to prepare for Black Friday shopping deals or to focus on a football game, with or without a turkey dinner. For others, the tradition of “everyone coming home” for a home-cooked feast is the main event. In our mostly non-agrarian society, where food is ever-abundant at the grocery store, the post-harvest gathering to give thanks to the Creator is ever less-connected to crop results. In times past, feast and famine tumbled around each other in tandem, and post-harvest rituals were especially centered on food and its gathered abundance before the non-growing season took grip upon the land. Giving Thanks to God Nevertheless, we can celebrate Thanksgiving in many joyous and uplifting ways, gathered with loved ones around tables laden with good food. We may consciously pause to itemize and even share all we have to be thankful for. Our blessings may filter through our mind as we sing from the “Thanksgiving and Praise” section of our hymnal. We may find much joy in this day set aside for rest and thanksgiving, in spite of a current sorrow or trial we carry. I’ve asked a few of my siblings for thoughts, as they have been incorporated into new Thanksgiving families, as well as some insight from my own children on our own special family gathering in 2015 which was abundant with “thanks for joy and thanks for tears.” As the Canadian Thanksgiving happens sooner in the harvest calendar than the American, perhaps due to the earlier harvest dates, I asked my brother Ryan, currently living in Saskatoon, for some thoughts on his new Thanksgiving family traditions. He slipped the reporter’s pen over to his father-in-law Duane Pirness, grandfather to Ryan and Anniina’s three children: Arian, Sonnet, and new baby Ismay who will join the Pirness celebration this year. A Special Time for Family “Our Thanksgiving meal has always been a special time for our family,” Duane says. “Canadian Thanksgiving occurs on the second Monday in October, so each year we celebrate it with a turkey meal. Some years it has worked better to have the meal on Sunday; other times we’ve had it on Monday. Mirjami is Finnish, so the tradition was a new one for her, but she immediately embraced it as a special family event. When the children were small, it was a day that they enjoyed and looked forward to; usually their Aunt Myla came to share the meal with us.” Time doesn’t stand still for any of us, and now Duane and Mirjami have entered a new phase of Thanksgiving celebrations: “With two sons-in-law, and grandchildren, it has become even more special, when it’s possible for all of us to be together. When the children were little, they were excited over the special meal. Now it has become a time for visiting and playing games, with everyone enjoying the little ones. Other than the fellowship, nothing has been specially planned, although sometimes everyone shares what they are especially thankful for.” Duane shares a mutual and heartfelt hope: “that our celebration on Thanksgiving Day will help us remember to be thankful every day for all the gifts and blessings God gives to our family.” Celebrations Change with Circumstances Just as far away from my household is my sister Heather, who lives in Kalispell, Montana with her husband Conor and nine children. While extended families make reliable Thanksgiving guests, this family has had to forge new traditions: “The first couple of years in Montana, we were able to host a Thanksgiving feast at our trailer with all of the other Montana folk. Everyone brought a part of the meal, and we sang Thanksgiving songs.” Sometimes, they were able to host online services as part of their Thanksgiving gathering. Again, change is re-shaping their holidays, as their family grows and more believing families settle around them, too many for one household table. Heather feels blessed to have hosted long-distance company for the last three years of turkey dinners, followed by restorative fellowship, singing, and outdoor activities. Blending Traditions, Thanking Together Even farther to the west from me lives my sister Katie with her family. Like Duane, Katie is married to an immigrant who has different childhood experiences surrounding a Thanksgiving feast. Her husband Ignace hails from Togo in West Africa, where he didn’t celebrate any harvest festival growing up, but enjoyed many other types of family gatherings, with special meals, beverages, and traditions. Since he works as a nurse in the Seattle area, he sometimes has had to work over the Thanksgiving holiday. When possible, Katie, Ignace, and their children, including Fiam who will taste his first bite of Thanksgiving this year, have gathered with extended family for Thanksgiving dinner, as Katie explains: “We have enjoyed taking the whole day to visit, eat, play outdoors, and just be together. When Ignace is part of our Thanksgiving celebration, we bring an African dish for the table, such as tapioca porridge or plantains. Thanksgiving is celebrated with lunch and dessert, and when the men and young boys have done the dishes, the mood shifts to Christmas. Names are exchanged and the children visit excitedly about the upcoming season. Our little family too looks forward to Christmas, another festive time to spend, in part, with my dad’s Seattle family, who are special people in our lives.” Katie reflects on the tradition of setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, that “while it’s easy, even natural, to focus on blessings of abundance, (surplus food and material goods for example), we pause to give thanks for the numerous blessings we’ve received.” The Heavenly Thanksgiving Lastly, I want to share my family’s Thanksgiving experiences of last year, which my 12-year-old daughter Livie describes: “Last Thanksgiving is one I will remember all my life. My grandma (Naemi) was very sick with cancer and we knew it was going to be her last Thanksgiving with us. She came on a hospital bed. Once everyone had eaten, we stood around her bed and sang her favorite songs. I am thankful she got to be there. At past Thanksgivings, she was always the last one to eat because she was on her feet, making sure we all were fed.” It certainly was a time of joy and tears, to gather, eat and sing, knowing our dear Naemi awaited her eternal rest after a busy and productive life of serving her family. She passed away on the last day of 2015, to join that heavenly Thanksgiving feast. We will make our Thanksgiving plans this year, with special memories of years gone by, with joy welcoming new attendees, be they babies or new additions by marriage or friendship, and with thankfulness in our hearts for so much, “Thank you, Lord, for all your blessings!” Janelle Huhta Discussion Points: 1. How is Thanksgiving currently celebrated in your home/family? 2. What kinds of food do you eat? Do you think about how they got to your table? 3. What non-food traditions do you enjoy at Thanksgiving time? 4. Can you think of a time when you have personally experienced famine? If not famine, a trial so heavy that you have had difficulty giving thanks to God? What has helped you?

Various | 2016 October Voice of Zion At Peace with Singlehood Though aware of the many blessings I’ve received in life, how can I be at peace fully with my singlehood and find support as an unmarried person? This is a question that some might have, especially if they have desired to be married and God has not yet given them a spouse. In this Home and Family feature, which believers have requested, God’s children of different ages and stages of life discuss their experiences living as a “single” person. We hope that many readers, regardless of marital status or age, would read these articles. What does it mean to love our neighbor, of any marital status, and support them in their walk of faith? Everyone needs a close friend that they can talk to. The Old Testament Prophet Isaiah has written, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness” (Isa. 41:10). We are all in God’s good and loving care! Rod Nikula Contentment Comes from God “We lose contentment when we try to insert our own will into God’s plan.” God has not granted me a spouse, at least to this point in my life. He has not forgotten me either. I have lived a happy and full life. God answers my prayers for contentment and I have been able to live as a child of God in the care of His children. These are my beloved believing brothers and sisters in faith! There have been times in my life when I was sick and needed help. Believers prayed for me and visited me. When I had nowhere to go, believers took me into their home and became my very dear friends. I know I am not forgotten. A married couple re­­membered me when my unbelieving relative was very ill. They sent a card and invited me to their home. Believers stay in touch with me, whether at church, by email, or simply through an “old fashioned” phone call. They come to visit, and they invite me to visit and do things with them. They have remembered me at Christmas, and I have gone to their home. These are great blessings in my life. My joys are the same as many others I know. While I don’t have a spouse, I have good friends, many nieces and nephews, godchildren, and my married friends share their children. I have a good job that gives me the kind of work that I enjoy. I am able to travel to various places and often find special joy in attending Summer and Winter Services. Being single does have trials, too. There are times when I do feel lonely. I might wonder what it would be like to be married to someone and have my own children and grandchildren. I wonder if anyone will remember me and visit me when I am older. But then I think that I must trust and believe that God will take care of me, just as He has until now. I know that there are some single people who especially long for a spouse. I pray that God would bless them with a believing spouse, if that is His will. I also pray that they would not be tempted to find a spouse from this world and lose their gift of living faith. Whether married or single, I pray that everyone would be content with their life. God has His plan for each person. We lose contentment when we try to insert our own will into God’s plan. I hope that this writing would help everyone to remember each other – whether single or married. I think about the words in verse three of song 420 in our songbook. It is a song about Home and Family, and it reminds us about how blinded we become in our own selfishness and hurry. We scarcely even notice our dear ones’ needs at home. We are encouraged to share our burden and stress within the care of Christ. The gospel carries and uplifts. We find refreshment there for our life of faith. Another song especially touched me when it was sung at a dear friend’s birthday party. Sing to the Lord! Glory and praise— our Father on high, gives of His grace. He sent His Son! Vict’ry is won. Christ has redeemed all His brethren. Dear one, for you we pray, stay in His grace each day, always secure in the family of God (SHZ 226:1). A sister’s perspective (U.S.A.) On the Journey “Down here in the ravine, it looks as if the mountains will fall on us, it makes me dizzy when I try to look up.” I am sitting on a rock and look down at Sarah calling to me. Her voice echoes between the mountains with a hollow sound. The sun shines so warmly that it burns, but fortunately, the trees and the huge rocks provide protection. The sky is blue, with no clouds in sight. It’s hard to believe that there was a violent thunderstorm last night and the water just came pouring down. I awoke to the thunder and the lightning. The thunderclaps were deafening and they bounced back off the mountains. I pressed my hands together crossing my fingers. I became calm and waited peacefully for the end of the storm. I follow Sarah’s climb and admire at the same time the most marvelous designs on the surface of the mountains. The guide told us that this island is still “alive” and the mountains are rising with the passage of time, so new pieces of art continue to be born for people to admire. Sarah sits down next to me panting and leans on her backpack. “Here, on a trip, a person always realizes how good they’ve got it. Oh, if I only were so thankful at home, too.” Sarah’s words wake me up. Johanna, who is a mother of a family, once said that a person is never satisfied. She also yearned for her own time and peace once in a while and was sometimes envious of my lot. And I myself often look at my life through the lens of a single person. “Yes, you can be happy when you have a permanent job and regular income, even if the wages may not be great,” Sarah continues, “There is the opportunity to travel and to broaden horizons. And, for people like us, it is easy to go because we don’t need to worry about anyone but ourselves.” “Yes, that’s true,” I think. Although a single person could travel with a family, if one wanted to badly enough. We go deeper into the ravine accompanied by the chirping of the cicadas. I almost step on Sarah’s heels when she stops suddenly. “Do you hear that?” I listen and look down toward the rushing sound. Way down at the bottom of the ravine a brook is flowing. The water is clear, and all the different rocks are plainly visible through it. Next to the water, but in completely barren and rocky land, stands a flowering tree. I sit next to Sarah to watch the brook flow by. A branch in the brook disturbs the water’s flow, but soon it flows again without any o­­bstruc­­tions. It’s like my own life was years ago. How was I so blind back then that I didn’t notice the change in my “near one”? In the end, we sat side-by-side like two unconnected persons. I cried and took off the engagement ring from my finger. It felt as if life had stopped. All of our mutual plans and dreams became rubble. St. John’s Day Eve was the next day and there were services, but I had no desire to go with the others. Nevertheless, the Heavenly Father set a choice before me, He reminded me of the most important matter in life. “What are you thinking about?” I’m jolted back to the present—either by my own thoughts or Sarah’s question. “Somehow the flow of that brook is a picture of the course of life. My life goes forward like that brook. There have been difficult issues at times. Perhaps the most difficult was the break­­up of the engagement. At that time, my life didn’t look like it would flow anymore. But still, it didn’t stop.” “Yes, your life got another direction,” Sarah acknowledges, continuing, “I believe that difficult experience of yours has given you compassion to understand the difficulties of others. You have many friends—all different kinds, in different situations in life, and you’ve gotten to be with children in your sisters’ and brothers’ families.” “It was really hard in the beginning. Meeting a person of the opposite sex especially oppressed me almost to panic, and I tried to avoid such situations.” Sarah touched my hand. “Do you know that I marvel now, afterwards, how I pulled through it all. I’m so thankful that you were near and had the strength to listen.” “Isn’t it good that we don’t need to find the strength alone? The Heavenly Father gave you strength as well as supportive escorts.” “Yes, they put me back together piece by piece.” Pirjo Kanniainen Translated from Yksin Yhdessä (Single but Not Alone), SRK 2003 Marital Status—an Annoying Detail A while back there was a worthwhile writing published in the Päivämies that inspired me to add on to the thoughts expressed about single living. The official descriptor for that is “unmarried,” but it is sometimes casually referred to as being a “bachelor” or an “old maid.” “Too bad that no one was interested—must be something wrong there!” From such pronouncements, you can sense an undercurrent that a person’s worth as a human being might very well improve by getting married. Have you ever noticed that this kind of attitude does pop up now and then? This kind of thinking gives the understanding that God’s guidance couldn’t possibly reach into a single’s household. Even though God guides every individual’s life, we can, nevertheless, see temporal reasons for remaining single. One may stay single—unmarried—for many different reasons, and it is in no way a pitiable fate. There are many who do not necessarily want to get married, and that is not a sin. Some may be convinced that they are neither capable of rearing children nor could they shoulder the responsibility that goes with having a family. Of course, family life certainly brings immeasurable joy and happiness. Some may find their own lack of daring to commit themselves to a close relationship an obstacle to marrying, or there could be some other limitations as well. The past always influences one’s choices. Whatever the reasons for singlehood may be, the most im­­portant thing—aside from faith—is how one regards his or her own lot in life. God has intended that everyone can be happy. Happiness is satisfaction with one’s life here and now. It is being present in this moment, while still not forgetting one’s dreams. After all, it is said that one’s own portion in life is the best portion! There are a lot of single people who feel that they are living life to its fullest without suffering any deprivation syndrome. They are content, and their lives are pleasant. But there are also those who suffer terribly in their singlehood, and this condition casts a shadow over their lives in general. Every person’s life has things that they wish were different. One can get over these by grieving them and then accepting whatever they may be. Faith is a real and is the most important resource in life, and a child of God has reason for contentment even just from that. Faith also helps us to understand that our life is in God’s hands and everything is as it is for a purpose. Life is also made easier by knowing yourself and the acceptance of yourself just as you are, including your past. This helps us in our relations with other people and opens the way for personal development as a person. Taking good care of your health is also a part of liking yourself. Life moves along its track, and every individual’s life is of equal worth. We are all “in the same boat”: the single person, those married with family, the forgotten senior, and the manager moving up a career path. Anna-Leena Heikkilä Translated from Päivämies, no. 41, 2014 It Feels Good to Gather Together I’m very thankful that God has given me time with older singles and family members. Gathering each year on Labor Day weekend at the Peace Gardens has been terrific for me. In these occasions, I’m able to just be myself, with no pressures or expectations. Believing fellowship is valuable for all believers, and I feel lucky that I’m surrounded and uplifted by so many amazing people. It’s not always easy—but then, whose life is? Whether married or single, male or female, young or old, it seems that all have trials and need the support and encouragement offered by other believers. I find contentment from this support. I have been teased about being a single man. I think it’s easiest when the teasing has been “good-natured ribbing” from others in a situation similar to mine. We have a mutual understanding. Sometimes questions from others can be hurtful. For example, “Are you going to be like so-and-so your whole life?” Or, constantly dropping comments about someone being a “nice match.” Sadly, this can immediately put a rift between me and the commenter. The hardest part for me are the implications in the comments that I am somehow not “trying hard enough” to find a spouse. It was God’s plan that they should find one, and it would be nice for me to know God’s plan for myself. There are always hopes and prayers. For some reason God has not led me to be with anyone and I am content with His will. It can be frustrating to sense undertones in presentations, discussions, or sermons that seem to imply that being single is a sorry plight, and we must feel woe and receive much en­­couragement to plod onward. I have no such feelings, so it feels odd for me to have someone comforting me for yearning and sadness over my life’s situation when I am content and happy. Nevertheless, some may find their single state to be one of longing and trial. Perhaps surprising to others, most singles are very busy. There seems to be a misperception that single people have ample time on their hands, and waste it pursuing frivolous or fruitless endeavors. Unfortunately, this feeling has come to light when there have been assignments or duties in congregational work. I am thankful that for me it is different. I do feel that my time is respected, maybe because of the nature of my work and my eagerness to stay busy. Of course, I do get occasional thoughts comparing to friends of mine who are married and have children, but I am always comforted when noting the balance that life pre­­sents. What may be easy for a single person may be difficult as a married person, and vice versa. There are joys, trials, and temptations unique to both. I believe that every person has been given roles in society and life, and simply, this is mine. There is no need to dwell on the “what-ifs” and “what-might-haves” because my life is wonderful and fulfilling. My daily work is purposeful and rewarding. I have a close-knit family that includes me, and many nieces and nephews to love and take on outings. I’m always in pursuit of hobbies which constantly enrich and fulfil me intellectually. I travel and work at church camp events and meet many believers of all ages. My “believing family” is enormous, stretching over continents. I am convinced that no matter what one’s situation is, all that is required is that one strives to hold onto their small shred of faith, and live a full, positive life. Therein is happiness and contentment. My believing friends are a support, and it is good to gather together. A brother’s perspective (U.S.A.) It’s Good Either Way God’s Peace! It’s good to see you! It’s been a long time. You must still be a bachelor. By the way, how old are you? Do you plan to ever get married? You haven’t decided who to choose, eh? Hey, we can’t let you off too easily. Every so often I had to answer such questions and comments and try to smile understandingly when someone clearly enjoyed introducing the subject. But right off the bat the just-pick-someone style wasn’t easy to take even though someone said it to me. I once read an article in the paper, which was very humorous to me for some reason: “If someone asks a person who lives alone, Why aren’t you married? it is at least as offensive as if someone were to ask a married person, “Why did you get married and why with that type of person?” But joking around didn’t always feel bad; the opposite was true instead. To be sure, we discussed the subject among friends and good-naturedly goofed off. But if I was already tired and irritated, then my tolerance would be tested, especially if the subject was repeated several times in a day. Once, at the conclusion of services, an older brother came to speak to me and said that you and another brother tempt the sisters in faith when you don’t get married. However, I soon received consolation when another brother stated curtly, “You do not tempt anyone, and if someone is tempted, let them repent.” It so happened once that I won a large doll in a drawing at a bazaar. Other people appeared to enjoy my success in the drawing more than I did. The doll was the topic of conversation for the entire evening. There were plenty of congratulators. One brother asked me in good humor the next morning, “Did it let you sleep okay?” It got put into a closet to wait for better times. Sometimes I thought that the style of the humor was probably connected to the humorist’s own wedded bliss. In spite of everything, I understood that I don’t need to have to get married because of social pressure. I have the right to live as a bachelor, to get to know myself, my own thoughts, and to learn to get along with myself. My studies were still in progress in addition to my work, and many kinds of duties seemed to increase in quantity. In reality, marriage did not even fit into my thoughts very well at the time, even though in my childhood and early youth I had dreamed of my own family. But feelings of longing sometimes hit me, and a prayer was part of it, asking God to lead my life in these matters also. When I neared the age of 30 years, the thought sometimes arose, “Will I remain a bachelor? Is it as some have kidded me that I cannot make a decision? But finally, are these matters to be decided by me?” Sometime, I asked some trustworthy brothers seriously about what love is and how would I know it. One brother spoke well of the grace-gift of falling in love. Through faith I understood that God also directed these matters as He sees fit. No one will manage to get ahead and carry away the person intended for another. There was content and purpose in my life as a bachelor. I felt that I was happy even alone, even in my yearnings and expectations. The bachelors’ ranks thinned threateningly, but there were still some left with whom I would jog and discuss everything between heaven and earth. It saddened me when some people tried to arrange my marital affairs, just as if I were helpless myself. Also the sincere revelations of their interest by some sisters made me somewhat sad, as I did not have reciprocal feelings. Perhaps my relationship with the sisters became even more cautious. Then, I was able to purchase a two-bedroom condominium. I first sought a one-bedroom apartment, but the bank manager was of the opinion that I needed a bigger place. The smaller ones were most likely easier to sell. It bothered me a little bit how people would relate to this bigger place: Can a bachelor live in so much space? Is some plan connected to this purchase of a home? During my entire school, student, and work years I had lived very frugally, sometime in a room in someone else’s home. It was awesome that now I, too, also had my own home, my own kitchen, living room, bedroom, and workroom. I could invite guests whenever I wanted to. Sometime on a Sunday, when time seemed long, I also invited families to come. The guests came willingly and it was nice to discuss matters with people in different phases of life. Sometimes, a thoughtless remark by someone about a bachelor’s unnecessarily large dwelling felt bad. But the Christians were generally happy that I had finally acquired my own home. Even as a bachelor, I had the permission and the right to have it. But then it happened. One spring it felt that my own emotions had to be clarified. Even a man, who was considered a devoted bachelor, had to get moving because that is how it felt, but it wasn’t easy. But when I had expressed my feelings honestly, I felt good and at peace. No matter how it ended up, it wouldn’t go wrong. The will of God will take place. The matters took their time, and there were painful and difficult phases. Nevertheless, the emotions were clarified, love ripened on both sides, and we found that we were in love. It was interesting to watch how our dear friends related to the fact that a bachelor came to services with a girl. One brother asked some questions, “Are you here to study or for some other reason? Are you relatives?” Then, when we announced our engagement, I experienced a special warmth in the congratulations of the Christians. Many of them, who had teased me even wildly while I was a bachelor, now shared the joy that I felt. “Love requires marriage,” our wedding pastor stated in his wedding sermon, and we were ready for it age-wise too. Since then I have had to learn that marriage requires love. In the midst of my everyday rush and large family, I have acquired an answer to my pondering of bachelor days on what love could be in everyday life. Love is the desire to dedicate oneself to the other person’s lot. Emotions are controlled by one’s own desire and the desire to love each other as was asked of us at our wedding. To live happily, I need to also make my dear one happy. We need to understand and be understood. I want to share everything in my life with her. Her joys are my joys, and her problems are my problems. Since I had lived a “long youth” and came and went freely, I did not want to go anywhere away from my family at home. I wanted to go to services, of course, and the participatory lifestyle that I had adopted as a bachelor remained as a responsibility of sorts and a favorable pursuit. I kept contact with the friends of single days, though not under the former conditions. Through her, I got to know her friends—now also my friends. When our children were born, I felt that I lived also for them and, therefore, I was in a hurry to get home for I knew that my wife and children were waiting there. Life had acquired new dimensions. My human values did not change because of my change in marital status. Some characteristics of my personality were strengthened while others weakened, but in both single life and marriage, I felt that I am a whole human person. This is how God has wanted to guide our lives. The Giver of Life, and duties, has not made a mistake with me or anyone else. It is good that way, and it is good this way. Antti Paananen Translated from Yksin Yhdessä (Single but Not Alone), SRK 2003 “Behold, I Will Do a New Thing” The girl playing with dolls had dreams just like most little girls have: When I grow up I will get married to the perfect husband, I will have wonderful children, I will live in a beautiful home and life will be happy. Touchingly, the matter felt like a given. The girl grew up, and playing with dolls got left behind. Her time was consumed with going to school and various other interests—still now and again she would escape to her dreams. The time came for study and a life of independence. Her studies seemed like a priority and learning was pleasant. The young woman met many new people. There were infatuations and “interests” but they changed to disappointments. It felt bad when her hopes were not realized. Her construct from childhood began to sway. Perhaps no one, no family, has been set aside for me. The future that had seemed touchingly clear began to fade. In time the studies ended. The woman continued to live alone. Her friends got married—one after another. Loneliness brought tears. Her educational achievements weren’t sufficient content in life. Is it true that there’s no one to share this beautiful, difficult life with? Her very skin ached to be touched. No one had held her since childhood. Her heart ached that no one loved her, did not see her uniqueness, the beauty of her mind and soul. No one admired her as a woman; she had to live her best time for herself. Hopelessness began to overcome her: if not a believing spouse, there are many unbelievers around. It felt difficult to stand up straight when from co-workers she got the attention and appreciation she craved. The question arose, “Did God really say so?” When it was very difficult, God sent help, a friend in the same life-situation. The friend remembered to ask how she was managing—and blessed her. The friend cared, made her feel valued, warmed her heart. The adult woman experienced as truth what is said in Proverbs about a faithful friend: “He who finds such a person, finds a treasure.” Gradually the woman understood that God does not give the same kind of path to everyone. Even if one’s own path is not traditional, it is good and rich. Joy was found in one’s own privileges and the freedom to enjoy them. Now the woman, who has reached middle age, no longer expects anything. Life has evened out. God has openhandedly given good things to her. Nevertheless, it’s like a stinging wound that she has never been able to feel what it is to have been in love, to have been loved, and to be someone’s all in all. There are no arms into which she might take refuge when the world threatens or treats her badly. She is neither spouse nor mother to anyone. However, time has been merciful and taught her to see the uniqueness of her own life and the innumerable opportunities—all of which she can’t even fit in. One cannot find joy and happiness in another person, from material things, or from anything that you touch with your hand; it is just given without one’s own merits. One receives love and warmth from the people around you, if you are ready to receive it. It feels secure to live a day at a time just as God gives it to be lived. Earlier dreams have disappeared but joy and hope have been given to replace them. “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing” (Isa. 43:18,19). Sailaritta Vuorisalo Translated from Yksin Yhdessä (Single but Not Alone), SRK 2003 1. What does God’s Word say about marriage and single life? 2. “But godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Tim. 6:6). Single or married, what gives you contentment in your life? 3. How have you reached out to someone who’s not in your immediate circle of family or friends—single or married? 4. How can you respond to someone who teases you about your lot in life, perhaps encouraging you to “check out” so-and-so, especially at a time when this “advice” is not welcomed or appreciated. 5. If you are someone who hasn’t experienced lengthy singlehood, reflecting on some of the experiences related in these articles, how might you change your approach to teasing, ribbing, matchmaking, etc.? 6. Sing and then discuss the message in song of Zion #469. Why are believing escorts so important? How can we support each other, regardless of our station in life?

Various | 2016 September Voice of Zion On These Pages: We live a time when human reason fiercely battles against faith on many fronts. Accepting children is one front in which there is need to support and help one another. For that reason, LLC’s Home and Family Committee felt the need to draw on previous writings founded upon Scripture that would provide support, comfort, and instruction for all believers regarding the joys of family but also openly acknowledging its trials. The first article, “Accepting Children—A Matter of Faith” establishes the scriptural foundation for the spread extensively quoting older and newer writings. The other two articles written by believing mothers speak from a more personal point of view. The timelessness of the writings and speeches, reaching back to 1945, bring comfort and security. Accepting Children—A Matter of Faith We easily forget the innumerable joys that children bring! Once a young expectant mother pushed her baby in a stroller surrounded by little ones. A voice interrupted, “Oh, how God is blessing you so richly with these many children.” It was what she needed to hear. This grandpa’s joy and sermon of faith uplifted and carried this mother because the sermon of the enemy regarding size of family and birth control is close. Without living faith, we, too, would embrace the enemy’s message because believing parents of large families are also tired at times, even weary to the bone, and human reason battles against faith. Nonetheless, for the believer, accepting children, whether few or many, is not a carnal exercise of weighing the pros and cons, but it is ultimately a matter of faith and obedience to God’s Word. God, Our Creator The believer’s position on accepting children has not changed. It remains founded on God’s Word. The older and newer writings and speeches of believers bring comfort and security time and time again. At a 2009 summer services press conference in Finland, Seppo Lohi stated how God is the Lord of life. Do I truly believe that “God has made me and all other creatures, has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still preserves them?” (Small Catechism). If I believe this, it means that man is not born by chance (SL). God’s Word confirms that He is our Creator, He gives and upholds life (Ps. 127:3–5; Isa. 44:24; Jer. 1:4,5; Ps. 139:13–17). At a ministers and board members meeting in July 2010, Jon Bloomquist spoke of the purpose of marriage: One of the primary purposes of marriage is procreation. God created man, male and female, and then commanded them to “be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth” (Gen. 1:27,28). Luther says that this is “more than a command, namely a divine ordinance which it is not our prerogative to hinder or ignore” (JB). The Old Testament examples of Rachel, Hannah, and Ruth all show that it is God who gives conception and the fruit of the womb (Gen. 29:30–30:2,6; 1 Sam. 1:5,19,20). Of Ruth is said, “So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the Lord gave her conception, and she bare a son” (Ruth 4:13) – (JB). Erkki Reinikainen, in his 1980s speeches and writings, stated, however, that living Christianity has not “prescribed norms of conduct for Laestadian spouses. The rejection of birth control and abortion arises on the part of every believer as a personal matter on the basis of faith” (ER). Kullervo Hulkko stated at a speakers meeting in 1945, Controlling the birth of children is against God’s Word and good conscience, and the prevention of the birth of a child is in all situations sin. (SL). Love Bears All Things While children bring richness and immeasurable joy to our lives, we must acknowledge, especially for parents of large families, that childbirth does not happen without pain and burden, and raising a family includes many phases, ups and downs. The immeasurable joy, times of enthusiasm, work, and boundless energy are contrasted with tiredness, stress, sorrow, and trial. These common phases of life naturally affect the relationship of the couple, also intimate relations, which are a deep expression of love and strengthen emotional connectedness. Christ’s law of love and also nature guide our actions in mutual respect and love for one another. In more difficult situations when a mother experiences a serious mental or physical illness, is healing from childbirth, or injury and is not able to have sexual relations, the law of love and nature teach her husband to respect his wife’s need to heal, and at those times he does not initiate sexual intercourse. The reverse can also be true when the husband is ill. Often in such situations, there is little need for discussion, rather the husband and wife naturally show mutual love and respect for each other as Scripture teaches: Love is patient and kind…It does not insist on its own way…Love bears all things…endures all things (1 Cor. 13:4). In childbearing years, a couple in childlike faith must often entrust their cares and worries in the care of God because, as Bloomquist pointed out, Pregnancy and childbirth always entail some degree of risk for a mother. On occasion there are also health and medical issues that may substantially increase those risks. In such circumstances a couple may face painfully difficult questions caused by the conflict between God’s command to be fruitful and multiply and their own concern for the mother’s life. Her life, too, is God’s gift and undeniably precious. In the face of such difficult issues, we feel our smallness and inadequacy (JB). Reinikainen expounds on the same matter: The ill, whether physically or mentally ill, need expert medical help and rest. In addition, they need, as always, the supportive love of their spouse, children, and friends in faith. So it is in Laestadian Christianity. If there are exceptions, they arise from human reason and not faith. When a wife is ill, recovering, or is physically or mentally exhausted, the commandment of love teaches that during that period the couple mutually refrains from sexual intercourse. This means a period of fasting and prayer according to the Word of God and not birth control” (ER). Bloomquist explains the significance of faith and trust in God: Even in difficult situations, however, God’s children do not wish to abandon the perspective of faith for the perspective of science and reason. It does not mean that believing fathers and mothers do not take medical information and advice into account, but rather that they strive to consider it in the light of God’s Word, faith, and conscience so that they might hold “the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience” (1 Tim. 3:9) – (JB). God’s Word teaches us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding” (Prov. 9:10). Thus, faced with these kinds of difficult questions, we humbly pray for God’s guidance, turn to His Word, and seek counsel and support from God’s congregation, which Paul calls the “pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15). In the end, however, each must decide according to his or her own conscience (JB). Support and Understanding It is important that couples experiencing such trials are not left alone in battle but that they have the support and understanding of those who are close to them. Such matters are very personal and private and not coffee table talk among those who are not close to the situation. Each situation is unique. Difficult decisions made in one situation do not necessarily apply to another. Those struggling in these trials yet endeavoring to keep faith and good conscience have sometimes suffered from insensitive comments questioning their faith. Equally as hurtful are suggestions to a mother who has given birth to many children close together that she could take an easier path offered by the enemy. Insensitive comments and suggestions of both types erode childlike faith and trust in God. God Helps When older parents and grandparents of smaller and larger families visit about their lives, we hear comments like, “God protected; God helped; trust in God’s care; pray to God.” In the throes of much work and toil, even difficult trials, it is hard to remember to cast all our cares upon God. For that reason, let’s remember to preach one to another the sermon of faith and trust in God. Like the grandpa, let’s remember to express joy over what God has given. Encourage parents with a few or many children. Remember and support couples with no children. In faith trust in God’s plan regardless of what life may bring. He knows best and is with us. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). The life of the believer, even a struggling parent, is one of righteousness, joy, and peace in the Holy Spirit. The happiness and joy of a child of God is to be near the Lord, as the psalmist has written (Ps. 73:28). Reinikainen wrote of the joy and blessing of family and encourages parents: Mothers have joy not only over birth, but also over the entire gift of life. The duty of a Laestadian mother is not just to give birth. She, with her spouse, during days of grief as well as during days of good fortune, lives a rich life in the midst of growing and maturing children. Thus it is, all the way to old age, if God gives a long life. Mothers and fathers, our hearts quieten in prayer on your behalf. May God bless and protect you. May He give you strength to raise your children—together with your spouse—in faith so that they are preserved in the grace covenant of baptism. May He give you skill and wisdom to rear your children for the benefit of our country (ER). We have much reason for hope and joy. God will take care of us. His thoughts toward us are good and not evil and He promises to give us a future and a hope! (Jer. 29:11). Keith Waaraniemi Sources: ER, Mothers in Zion, Adapted from Päivämies editorial, “Rakkaat siionin äidit,” – Voice of Zion, August 1989, May 1993, by Erkki Reinikainen JB, “God is Lord over Life and Death” – 2010 LLC Minneapolis Summer Services - Ministers and Board Members Meeting. Adapted version of presentation – November 2012 Voice of Zion, by Jon Bloomquist SL, “I believe in God, the Father,” Introduction at SRK Summer Services press conference in Oripää, Finland, June 2009, by Seppo Lohi (In this introduction, Lohi quotes Kullervo Hulkko’s 1945 statement.) There Is Both Joy and Trial in Accepting Children I was young, married for perhaps a week. I still remember my thought clearly, “If only I wouldn’t immediately become pregnant!” It would be so easy and pleasant for just the two of us to live together. I could concentrate on my interesting work, which I was just beginning. My husband could advance in his studies, which would still continue for several years. Besides being tempting, the thought was surprising: does the pondering already begin about when would be the acceptable time to have children? I soon was expecting a baby and quickly found that out. The knowledge made me intensely happy; not even for a moment did I sigh after the easy life of only the two of us. Perhaps in my thoughts I had already imagined how difficult it would have been for me to be left without any children. When my firstborn was five months old, I became pregnant with twins. Then I had children a year and a half to two years apart, altogether eleven. A Large Family Demands Both Trust and Faith Marriage without contraception seems to be a natural way of life to us believers. We can’t really even understand why those on the outside are amazed and appalled by it. Still, once in a while I have comprehended the tremendous trust and almost senseless risk taking which is part of the life of a growing family. Without faith in God we wouldn’t accept children without considering our life situation. We would not accept yet a tenth or fifteenth child. On average, a Finnish woman gives birth to slightly fewer that two children. A higher birth rate would be desirable in our nation, but parents consider two or three children as a reasonable number for their family. More children are considered to be a threat to the family’s financial situation or to the parents’ ability to cope. It is likely considered beneficial, too, for a child to grow up in a small family. I have sometimes wondered why certain parents I know have wanted seven children, without having any religious conviction. I was giving birth at the same time as the mother of such a family, and I saw how happy she was to have her seventh child. Surely she and her husband had also felt much joy over their older children. They had found their family life to be worthwhile, along with its difficulties. There is joy over children also in believing families. On the refrigerator door of a certain family with twelve children was written in large letters, “Children are richness.” Still believing families aren’t large for these reasons. For me accepting children has been, above all, a question of faith. I have simply wanted to believe that God continues to be the Creator of life. He gives some families many children, others few or none at all. God Knows When our Children Should Be Born If children are born very close together, doubts awaken nonetheless. There is much work, there is worry about managing with the family. Is it even right to have a new baby very soon, considering the other children? “May believing couples control their family size using the so-called rhythm method of birth control?” a young opisto student asked us adults. The rhythm method wouldn’t seem to be the same kind of prevention of pregnancy as, for instance, using the birth control pill. Nevertheless, what else is it but controlling the beginning of life according to one’s own conditions? My conscience was tender in this matter, and I also thought that it would be emotionally difficult to live in marriage under this type of regimentation. Although a new pregnancy was sometimes hard to accept, it still felt easier and more right to trust that God knows when our children should be born. It Is Important to Speak of Our Fears and Worries Some mothers have told me of their fear of becoming pregnant. The reason for their fear has been previous problems during pregnancy or a difficult labor. A certain mother related how post-partum depression had left her with trauma. It is important to share such experiences with understanding people. At the prenatal clinic, a mother can receive professional help to overcome fears, as well as advice on preventing problems. It helps when considering the matter to remember that anyone at all can experience health problems and fears regardless of how many pregnancies they have. My last pregnancy was psychologically difficult for me. I had a feeling that this birth would be very risky. The Creator gave a healthy child, and I was able to continue my life after a critical situation. God’s intention was, nevertheless, that after this I would not have more children. Hearing this, I was in a way relieved, when the danger accompanying childbirth was over, but for a long time I also felt sadness because my time of having babies came to an end. After my experience, I have pondered much the significance of being open. We aren’t always able to trust in God’s protection, and that’s why it would be important for us to speak of our worries. Fears borne alone are reflected at home, even in the form of impatience and detachment. How Are Our Children Faring at Home? I have often discussed another kind of family concern with my husband. As working parents of a large family, we have often worried whether we notice each child sufficiently. We have also pondered how to deal with our own tiredness before it would begin to govern our home life. It’s clear that family size doesn’t determine what kind of fundamental security a child has or what kind of provisions he receives for life. Many matters in the home affect those things. A phrase has remained in my mind from a certain psychologist’s lecture, that the home’s atmosphere forms the child’s internal atmosphere. We see from a child’s face, speech, and behavior if things are well with him. Even though there are tears and arguments, even worries at home, it can still be a secure home, if its atmosphere is accepting and merciful. Surely the children of most believing homes are healthy. At my work and among my acquaintances, I have marveled how well balanced youth from large families can grow up to be. Often I have happily looked at my own children playing together. All the same, I could have used forgiveness as a source of strength and comfort even more for my children. The gospel of the forgiveness of sins is also fundamentally important between spouses. Through it, we care for the two most influential matters in having energy and in the home’s atmosphere: our marital relationship and and our faith life. We Want to Support Parenting Does my article reach some especially tired father or mother? You’re urged from the outside of God’s kingdom to take the size of your family into your own hands. In contrast, the believers want to support your parenting. I have received good instructions and supportive peers’ experience from Christian publications, married couples’ discussion evenings, and camps. Diaconal work in congregations supports families. Relatives and friends are able to help. Asking for help can feel humbling, but in difficult times of life it is the responsible thing to do. My own experience has been that trust and obedience have contained a blessing. I have received my precious family as a gift from God. Trusting in His guidance, I have certainly avoided many disappointments, guilt feelings, and dangers to faith. I am not even able to see or comprehend all the blessings which I have received. Tuuli Hintsala (mother, Opisto teacher) Translated from Päivämies, #40, 2011 God, the Master Planner At the time of this writing, the Tölli family, of Kajaani, Finland, consisted of Henna, her husband Pekka, and children Elena (8), Viena (7), Selja (6), Saga (4), Aate (3), twins Elja and Neela (22 mo.), and five-week-old twin boys “Aatu and Peetu” (names to be announced at baptism). In this writing, Henna shares thoughts on the blessing of being able to trust in the Heavenly Father’s will in her duties as a mother in God’s kingdom. The Heavenly Father has given us a great responsibility and task in raising our children. Though I have often felt overwhelmed, it has been comforting to trust that since my husband and I have been entrusted with this duty, we will also be given strength for each day. As our family has grown, I’ve felt that through the little ones and the weight of the work involved with caring for them, I’ve been kept as a child myself and have been able to see what’s essential in each moment. As a younger mother, I found it more difficult to accept the birth of the babies one after the other. I questioned: how will I find the strength to do this? How can we cope with the growing family? How can I care for one baby after another? How can I keep up with the chores and the children’s needs? Then, when we have been given a new baby, it gave strength and cleared the prospects for the future, showing us the wonderful blessings that children bring. More recently, accepting the babies itself has become easier, but I’ve had worries considering the health challenges I’ve faced, especially during the first twin pregnancy. It surprised even me, how after plowing through the first year with the twins, I felt delighted and fully trusting to hear of another twin pregnancy! It felt unbelievable, and I felt privileged to be able to again experience something as unique as pregnancy and the wonder of giving birth to two babies. When I told others about the second twin pregnancy, I felt as if they were more concerned about how I could cope than I was. God allowed me to trust, like a child, that all would be fine and would go as it is meant to go. Now, I can look back with a thankful mind and say that everything went better than I could have imagined. The support of family and friends in the difficult times has been priceless. I can’t find words to thank for the support network we’ve had around us! I’ve found it difficult to ask for help, but it has felt so good to be helped without asking. Those everyday angels cannot imagine how wonderful it has felt to receive a message: “You are in our thoughts,” for example. During difficult days, when I’ve been tired or ill, I’ve just sent a heavy sigh to the Heavenly Father. Often the next day has been brighter, or delightful helping hands have appeared from nowhere. It may have been a small task for the one offering help, but for a tired parent it can be the resource to overcome that difficult moment. I recall with great love when local grandmas brought treats when we came home with the twins; friends and neighbors took the babies for a stroll so we could get the other children tucked into bed; or the children’s godparents picked up one or several children to go outdoors or to visit with them. It has been heartwarming when neighbors and friends from work have offered their help and been sincerely interested in how everything is going. Even small moments of time on my own in silence have brought great joy. Other uplifting moments are time with my spouse, evenings with friends, or when I can give special time to just one child. My job outside the home has also brought a welcome change to our home’s daily routines. I like to plan ahead, both smaller and bigger things. But I trust in God having the master plan figured out and that my own plans can suddenly change. Often afterwards I can see that there was a huge blessing in God’s plans. It is comforting to know that my life is in the hands of the Almighty. Trusting and being content with the Heavenly Father’s will brings peace and the feeling that I can make it through difficult times. I have personally experienced that when trusting in God’s will, it is easier to see how adversities are a part of life, contrary to the picture in which one has trusted in self-planned paths. Translated and submitted by Nina Vanska Discussion Points 1. Please share any experiences you have had with the enemy of soul’s prompting to use human reason to question God’s Word regarding childbearing and family life. 2. What kind of help and support was especially meaningful in battling such attacks? 3. In what specific ways can we support parents struggling with trials and burdens of family? 4. How should a believer deal with the insensitive comments or non-supportive suggestions of others? 5. How might the enemy tempt believing couples who haven’t received any children? How can we comfort and support those in this situation? 6. Is there a specific Bible portion or verse in a song of Zion that has helped and comforted you in a time of questioning and doubt? 7. Amid and after raising children, how has God revealed what a blessing children are in life?

Elaine Nikula | 2016 September-October Shepherd's Voice A New Family Member This is baby Makenna, who was just born on June 20. She is special because she is the first girl after eight boys! Her mom and dad were excited to have a new baby, but super excited to have a girl! The oldest brother thought it was cool to be a family of only boys, but he says that Makenna is pretty cool, too. The family thinks she is adorable from the top of her head to her little toes. Have you ever looked at a baby’s toes? Makenna has ten cute toes that wiggle and will grow into bigger toes. Those toes are on feet that will soon be walking, running, and riding a bike. Makenna has already grown in just a few short weeks! It’s one of God’s amazing miracles that babies know how to grow and learn. Makenna will eventually learn to say words and do math problems. God has given each baby, each person, his or her own abilities. That means that they are not all the same, but some are better at some things and others are better at other things. Mom and dad may wonder if Makenna will be a carpenter like her dad or a baker like her mom. Her brothers hope she will like to play ball. Mom loves to see Makenna smile! “Hi, baby!” When Makenna smiles all the boys come and smile, too. Then there is competition to see who else can make her smile. They laugh at the funny faces she makes. One of the brothers noticed that Makenna got many gifts. “She has more clothes than I do!” he says. Many people come to see the new baby at church, and the six-year-old is proud that some say his baby sister looks just like him. The littlest brother loves to give kisses on the top of her head. Each of the boys want their turn to hold her. Sometimes a baby comes with extra challenges. Makenna often has an unsettled tummy and cries a lot. Mom and dad get tired and sometimes feel discouraged. Then Makenna is also a teacher. How can such a little person be a teacher? Mom and dad (and brothers) learn to be patient. They learn to trust God to help them and help baby. They learn to share and be helpful. The older boys take turns trying to soothe her when she is fussy. The five-year-old is a big helper and takes dirty diapers to the garbage. They learn what is important in life. Taking care of family is very important. Cleaning the house or riding bike are not nearly as important. They learn that nothing is more important than getting to heaven. God has given Makenna the wonderful gift of faith. She believes and trusts in God. That faith can take even the tiniest of babies to heaven! God also gave you faith when you were born. If you believe your sins forgiven and trust in God all your life just like Makenna, you will get to heaven, too. Makenna’s family feels very fortunate to have a miracle like her in their home. “My favorite part of the day is snuggling her after work,” dad says. “She brings so much happiness to our home,” mom adds. All the big brothers grin. Elaine Nikula

Lydia Hillukka (with Katie Hillukka) | 2016 July-August Shepherd's Voice A Special “Auntie” With a big yawn, Nora sits up in bed. “Mom!” she calls. No answer. She crawls out of bed and clomps down the stairs. “Mom?” Still no answer. She wanders into the kitchen and finds auntie Bernice standing at the stove putting a pile of steaming pancakes on a plate next to her. “Good morning, Nora! Did you sleep well?” Bernice asks with a hug. “Where is mom?” Nora asks. “She went to the hospital this morning to have her baby. I’ll be staying with you kids for a few days.” “Yay!” Nora says. “We’re going to have so much fun!” Soon the other children wake and discover that mom has gone to the hospital. Cries of joy erupt—both over the new baby and because auntie Bernice will be here for a few days. There is much discussion about baby names and what’s on the agenda for the day. Everyone has different ideas. The chores get done quickly when they decide that today will be a baking day. Everyone puts on an apron or dishtowel—even two-year-old Ava. The kitchen becomes quite a disaster with so many people and little fingers “helping out.” Through it all, Bernice chatters and hums. After everyone is done and tummies are filled with samples, the kids help to clean up. Bernice always says, “Many hands make light work!” In the evening, she reads a few books and tells stories about her childhood. Her stories are always interesting! When the kids are tucked in bed, she preaches the gospel. Nora’s sister Lydia wonders—what will tomorrow bring? Aunt Bernice isn’t really their aunt, but they call her aunt because she seems like part of their family. Many years ago, when mom was really sick in bed, Bernice showed up on the doorstep with a meal for the family. They all had a good visit, and she’s been a special “aunt” ever since. Many times she visits them, sometimes stays overnight, or takes the children on an adventure. Even though Bernice isn’t married and doesn’t have children of her own, she always says she “has lots of kids.” That’s because over the years, many families have been blessed by her spirit of love and desire to help anyone in need. “When Bernice is in charge, the kids and house are well taken care of!” Mom says. The children say they feel lucky to have such a special, caring “aunt.” Lydia Hillukka (with Katie Hillukka) Things to Visit About: 1. Do you have a special person in your life, like the “auntie” in this story? Why is she (or he) special to you? 2. Do you think that you are special in her (or his) life as well? How do you help her? 3. Sing song of Zion #431. Who are the escorts in our lives, that verse 4 speaks about? What important duty do our escorts in faith do? Why are they so important? My Special Friends From a little hand waving in church to a big smile or a hug, I feel blessed to have a large family of children in my life, even though God has not blessed me with my own. “When can we come to your house? Can we have a sleepover?” What blessed sights and sounds. Helping families has been something I learned from childhood. My family experienced the need and support of others due to family illness. God’s children came to help in many ways. Now I have time and find joy in helping others and through this have gained many special friends in God’s kingdom. God has given me a gift to love children, which is precious. A joy of spending time with them is seeing their eyes sparkle with delight. It can be from something as simple as a treat, or maybe they have come to ask for the gospel. I’m thankful that God has allowed many parents to share their blessings with me. Many thanks to God that He has given His kingdom many little escorts to be loved and cared for. May God keep you, dear children, in His kingdom. Bernice Hillukka