Search Results

Juhani Uljas | 2000 Treasure Hidden in a Field -- God's Congregation Finland is said to be the promised land of associations, for nowhere else do so many exist. It is no wonder if many people think that a congregation, too, is some kind of society formed by people, members who have common values and who think in the same manner, at least in matters concerning faith. However, this congregation is not such. It has been founded by God as part of His plan of salvation. Paul calls the congregation of God the house of God, the pillar and foundation of truth (1 Tim. 3:15) and the body of Christ (Eph. 1:22,23). In the Large Catechism Luther explains, in connection with the Third Article of the Creed, the nature of the congregation. He would change the phrase, “communion of saints,” to the “community” of saints, for the original Greek word meaning, the congregation, “ecclesia,” means an assembly of people. The word, community, would depict more deeply the nature of the congregation. The congregation is the community of those people whom the Holy Spirit has sanctified. Holy means separated for someone. The members of the congregation of God are not holy of themselves or saints. On their own part, they are participants in original sin and feel the influence of its corruption in themselves. But God has called them and has forgiven their sins through the gospel preached of the Holy Spirit. Thus, He has separated them from the world and put them in unity with Christ, where they can own His holiness. They have the holiness and righteousness of Christ in the fellowship of the congregation. If this fellowship breaks, they are like a vine's dry and dead branches, which do not bear fruit. The work of the Holy Spirit must continue in us for our corrupt nature wants to separate us from Christ and His congregation. The congregation of God cannot be seen with the eyes. The Pharisees once came to Jesus and asked, “When is the kingdom of God coming?” Jesus answered them, “The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: neither shall they say, Look here, or look there! For, behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst” (Luke 17:20,21) [Translation corresponds with the Finnish Bible]. Jesus said to Nicodemus, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). New birth means receiving faith and becoming a child of God. Only faith opens one's understanding to see the congregation of God in the midst of people here in time. Luther explains the nature of the congregation in his preface to the book of Revelation, “The mind does not comprehend the one holy Christian congregation on earth.” Man cannot see it with the aid of reason, even if he put on “all of the [world's] spectacles,” for the enemy of souls has covered it with faults and heresies. The congregation of God can be seen only through faith, when the Holy Spirit opens the eyes. Through faith we see as John did, “And I, John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God” (Rev. 21:2,3). [Translation corresponds with the Finnish Bible.] The Work of the Holy Spirit Luther teaches in the Large Catechism that the work of God must continue without interruption. Creation has concluded, and the redemption work of Jesus has taken place, but the work of the Holy Spirit will continue until the last day. The Holy Spirit acts through the congregation. Christendom is not yet numerically full, for that reason the Holy Spirit must still dispense forgiveness. According to Luther, we believe on the Holy Ghost, which draws us daily into fellowship with the congregation by God's Word. The Holy Spirit does His sanctifying work in His congregation and through the mediation of His congregation. As the Creator, God is near all people, just as Paul preached at the Areopagus in Athens, “He is not far from every one of us: for in him we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:27,28). God calls and awakens a person in many ways, but He justifies a person in only one way. The justifying God can be found only in His congregation, in which the Holy Spirit does His justifying and sanctifying work. Before His suffering and death, Christ prepared His disciples for the change ahead of them. He said, “For if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.…Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:7,13). The resurrected Christ sent a message to the congregations of Asia Minor, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches!” (Rev. 2:7). We also ask that God would keep our ears open to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit in His congregation. The Communion of Saints According to Scripture, the communion of saints is realized in the congregation. Paul writes, “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular” (1 Cor. 12:27). The members live and act only together with the body. They do not have life separate from the body. “Whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it” (1 Cor. 12:26). Jesus' parable about the vine and its branches is familiar and meaningful. The branches can bear fruit only if they remain attached to the trunk (John 15:1-8). A song of Zion depicts the fellowship of the children of God: The mark of recognition, grant we this love preserve! For known by this distinction, the kingdom dwells on earth. The Spirit's power holds us the love of Christ within - unbroken cord that binds us together, brings us home (SHZ 464:5). Luther would have gladly changed “communion” to “community,” but he did not dispute that the congregation also is a communion of saints. In the Large Catechism, he describes the congregation and the unity of spirit that rules there in this manner, “I believe that there is on earth a little flock or community of pure saints under one head, Christ. It is called together by the Holy Spirit in one faith, mind, and understanding. It possesses a variety of gifts, yet it is united in love without sect or schism. Of this community I also am a part and member, a participant and co-partner in all the blessings it possesses. I was brought to it by the Holy Spirit and incorporated into it through the fact that I have heard and still hear God's Word.” The communion of saints is communion of spirit and of love, but above all, it is communion with Christ. We live and experience this to be true already here in time in the midst of the battling congregation. This communion does not recognize the boundaries of time, but passes over them. When we read about the people in Scripture, it is easy to identify with them. Their experiences and endeavors and ours have been the same. This becomes especially evident in the Epistle to the Hebrews, which depicts the congregation as God's people on a journey. A portion has already arrived at the destination, but a portion is still on the way. The travelers who have reached glory support us with their examples, so that we would not tire. “Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us set aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race which is set before us” (Heb. 12:1).

Erik and Kyra Wuollet | 2020 December Voice of Zion | The Christmas season is a time of advent when we await the birth of Jesus Christ, the greatest gift, who redeemed us of all sin. We remember and celebrate this time of year by attending services, spending time with family, and giving and receiving gifts. Apostle Paul’s words in Acts 20:35 tell us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Jesus also instructs, “Freely ye have received, freely give” (Matt. 10:8). We visited with elders Roy and Mary Skoog and Eva Wuollet from our home congregation of Cokato, Minnesota. They reflected on gifts they have received in their lives. They grew up in the time of the Great Depression. Their parents were not able to provide substantial gifts. Yet they remember feeling blessed. Eva Wuollet remembers receiving an orange, peanuts, or an apple for Christmas. “We never expected much. People were satisfied and never felt like they missed out,” she says. Even when the family had little themselves, they would notice others in need, and it was nice to be able to help however they could. Often help was given in the form of a meal. After Eva married Donald and they had a large family of their own, Eva was able to enjoy giving gifts to their kids, although she felt there was not much to give. Eva says, “It was always nice to be able to bring the kids to church services.” Roy and Mary Skoog also remember receiving few material gifts at Christmas when they were children. Mary reflects that they never had a Christmas tree, and she rarely received gifts from her parents but was overjoyed to receive a package from her aunts and uncles. Although Mary’s parents were unable to give presents, Mary said, “I am thankful my parents thought about my undying soul.” They brought her to services and preached the gospel in their home. The message then and now is that Jesus’ birth is the true reason we celebrate Christmas. Through believing sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood we will be able to make it to heaven one day. When we think of a gift, often the first image that comes to mind is a package nicely wrapped in festive paper with an object inside. It is important to remember that the gifts Jesus spoke of are not of this kind. We possess the most precious gift, the gift of faith. As believers, we can also freely offer this gift to anyone who is searching for peace for their undying soul. We pray that we would be given strength to speak of the joy that is in us, and thus be able to offer this gift to our unbelieving neighbors in our Christmas giving. The gifts we receive are blessings from God. Likewise, the gifts we give are also His blessings. Erik and Kyra Wuollet Discussion questions: 1. “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). What does this mean to you? 2. When have you realized it was a greater blessing to give rather than receive? What were the circumstances? 3. What does instruction in Acts 20:35 teach us especially about helping the less fortunate? How might we do this today? 4. How can we teach children about the blessing of giving, rather than receiving? How can parents model this? 5. When you think back to Christmases past, which is easier to remember: gifts you’ve given or gifts you’ve received? Why is this so?

Ben and Jen Waaraniemi | 2020 November Voice of Zion | “Think and speak well of him and put the best construction on all he does.” – Martin Luther, Small Catechism With the simple instruction above, Martin Luther summarizes the eighth commandment in his Small Catechism. It is a message that is consistent with the teachings of Jesus that are recorded for us in the Bible. From a young age, children can grasp the truth and simplicity of Jesus’ teaching of the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It is a lesson that we need to teach and learn again and again throughout our lives. Kind behavior is described in the Bible: Apostle Paul teaches that as we have opportunity, we are to “do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10). Thus, believers have a special responsibility to help and support brothers and sisters in faith. God’s kingdom is made up of many individuals who have differing perspectives and personalities. The enemy of God’s kingdom works to use these differences to create contention and strife between believers. John especially instructs about the importance of preserving love between believers: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7). We need to fight against the instinct of our flesh to see those with a different perspective or opinion as opponents but rather as those for whom Christ died. When differing opinions in matters of faith or doctrine arise, we can trust that when we approach each other with love and humility God reveals the way forward in His time. Bear One Another’s Burdens God has also created all His children with varying abilities and disabilities. This does not change the fact that each of His created children has an undying soul of equal worth. Christian love teaches us to help and serve those with particular needs or conditions: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2). Paul also instructs every person “not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think” and “Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate” (Rom. 12). This passage instructs us to strive to be helpful, rather than superior to others, offering our individual abilities to serve Him and all humankind. The eighth commandment speaks of our neighbor: “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.” In addition to not lying about others, we should also extend love to all people. Jesus teaches in the parable of the Good Samaritan that ‘neighbor’ applies to all of humankind who are created in God’s image. It may seem easy to not spread lies and to think well of those we love or respect. It is much more difficult to apply the commandment and this message of love to those with whom we disagree or who live and speak contrary to God’s Word. Yet the teaching of Jesus is clear: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:43,44). Apostle Paul also instructs that “as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” A Christian has the responsibility to work for temporal peace. Disparaging or harming others with our words or actions is sin. We pray for the mind of Christ in confessing our faith and preaching sin as sin. The Golden Rule In his Large Catechism, Martin Luther expands on his explanation of the eighth commandment: “Now we have the summary and substance of this commandment: No one shall use the tongue to harm a neighbor, whether friend or foe. No one shall say anything evil of a neighbor, whether true or false, unless it is done with proper authority or for that person’s improvement. Rather, we should use our tongue to speak only the best about all people, to cover the sins and infirmities of our neighbors, to justify their actions, and to cloak and veil them with our own honor. Our chief reason for doing this is the one Christ has given in the gospel, and in which he means to encompass all the commandments concerning our neighbor, ‘In everything do to others as you would have them do to you.’” Luther’s words here highlight the Golden Rule. This rule is so simple, yet it is necessary for us to think deeply about how to apply it in everyday life. Ben and Jen Waaraniemi A Forest of Kindness Our new home is nestled in a birch grove. When we arrive, the summer is at its finest. Gentle, slender birch trees shine day and night, green and silver branches rustle as if to whisper their welcome. As summer wanes and autumn approaches, the lush green deepens, and suddenly we see that this is not just a birch grove we live in. We notice that in a corner of the yard grow bushes of black and red currants. Their berries will soon be ripe for the picking. Beside the shed, a tall old pine stands high. Birds flock to the yard to feast on the ruddy orange berries of the winter ash. And later, when the greens turn to brown and yellow, I see it. A little maple, right outside the window. Unlike the sociable birches, the maple stands bravely alone. It dazzles with its large golden leaves. If God’s congregation on earth were a forest, would we all be birch trees? Clustered together, safe and secure? Whispering when the maple shows its splendor, that “he is not one of us?” And what about the poor winter ash that is picked clean in September? Would we wave our branch arms in protection? God’s congregation is a group of individuals. We are human and all so different. Some of us – it might be a majority of us – have grown up in an area where we are surrounded by believers and relatives. Yet, there are some believers who might feel that they do not fit in because of personal life situations, such as having repented from the world, having lost family to the world, having moved from a different country or continent, or just having a different perspective on life because of life’s circumstances and experiences. How can we show kindness to such individuals? How can we show them that their uniqueness is valued, and that they and their different perspectives are welcome? Kindness does not stem from obligation, but from the true desire to care. The Bible says, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18). What sort of deed is kind? It is a genuine gesture, unassuming. It is showing the love God has for us to our neighbor. It is trying to accept others and their differences even though we can’t completely understand them. If God’s congregation on earth were a forest, we would stand, some like the birches, in clusters, safe and secure. Some of us would be like the tall pines, strong and confident and a little aloof. Some like the brave, lonely maple. Some smaller, unassuming. All exposed to the storms and winds of life but experiencing them differently depending on where we stand. And all thirsting for and thriving on the water that gives life. Like the trees of the forest, we are indeed, all different. We have different needs, experiences, and feelings but are united by the gospel message. Jesus died for all our sins, and in God’s kingdom the refreshing gospel flows freely. May we have the strength to always support each other by showing kindness. Katriina Edoh When Teasing is Bullying Is it bullying or just bad behavior? Should we be concerned about kids’ taunting chants of “fatty-fatty two-by-four?” It’s just kids being kids, right? What’s a little teasing? But are the kids who are teased and bullied able to rise above being continually or even occasionally hurt by others? A group of boys constantly muttered humiliating comments to a teenaged girl when she walked by. Day after day they tormented her. One boy sat with a group of boys at the lunch table – they walked away. He wasn’t called to play hockey at the neighborhood rink and was ridiculed for his inability to pronounce the letter “s.” Another boy was jeered for his weight. Showering at camp was deeply humiliating. His underwear was strewn on the lawn, and his bunk was filled with grass and suitcase littered with garbage. Did he want to go to camp next year? It happens more than we want to admit. It happens at church services and at camps. How would you feel if these things happened to you or to your child? These young people battled feelings of shame and worthlessness. Some cut their bodies to dull the pain of rejection. Some had thoughts of ending a life that felt not worth living. They may carry scars into adulthood – low self-esteem, anxiety or depression. Some denied faith, overcome by temptations and doubts. “The devil whispers loudest to the victim,” says Brett Nikula, Minnesota licensed Associate Marriage and Family therapist, “planting lies and seeds of bitterness, saying, ‘God has forgotten you. They can’t be believers when they act like that. This can’t be God’s kingdom.’” The heart aches for victims and may feel animosity towards the bully. But what about the bully? Don’t bullies want to get to heaven too? The enemy of souls also tempts the bully. He may be struggling after being mistreated himself. This may be his misguided way to try fit into a group. Or he may be unaware of his bullying, thinking that he is just teasing and people should just “lighten up.” The bully needs to be stopped, even by removal if necessary. And the victims need to understand that nothing they did caused the bullying – no matter what they may have done. It may take time before the victim is able to encounter the bully, and any encounters should only be arranged when the victim is ready. Ultimately, both bullies and victims need loving encouragement to come to the grace altar to put away bitterness, doubts, pride and sinful actions. When a penitent heart believes sins forgiven, then miracles happen. Parents whose son was bullying other boys called the boys and parents together. This matter was discussed in love, and all wished to believe sins forgiven. The boys played together from then on. The enemy of souls wants to break love between believers and cause turmoil in homes and congregations. The most powerful tool against this is the forgiving gospel which can heal a bitter heart and broken relationships. Even after the blessing, victims may need professional help to repair PTSD, low self-worth and depression. It’s important to make clear that bullying is never okay. If we make excuses for it, then the misunderstandings about bullying continue. Bullying isn’t simply a harmless part of growing up. Wouldn’t we wish to do our part to stop it? Kindness is a learned behavior. Let’s teach our children to include everyone and to invite a newcomer into the group. Let’s take a seat next to anyone sitting alone and get to know them. Let’s celebrate that we both love soccer instead of ridiculing the other’s shoes. Everyone has faults and sins. And perhaps most of us can remember a time when we left someone out or went overboard with teasing. Maybe we even bullied. As ugly as the sins may be, the beauty of God’s kingdom is that no one needs to be condemned for these transgressions. Both bully and bullied can freely believe all sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood. Elaine Nikula Show Kindness Be nice! We often tell children this, but how can we encourage them to show goodness to others? We can start teaching kindness by asking: what is kindness? Why do we want to be kind? Kindness is showing goodness to others, being friendly, helpful, patient, gentle and considering the feelings of others. Showing kindness through our actions makes others feel comforted and happy, may solve conflicts and problems and moves others to be kind in return. There are many Bible passages that remind us how important kindness is. The Bible reminds us that the most important thing is charity, the love that is deep care for others (1 Cor. 13:4–7,13). The Bible instructs us, “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18). We are reminded to show love to all people, even complete strangers (Lev. 19:34). Kindness is a fruit of faith; our love for God and thankfulness that our sins are forgiven moves our heart to show kindness to all people (Gal. 5:22). We can teach children to show kindness in simple ways, such as by saying hello, smiling at others and using nice words. We can also instruct them to help someone who has fallen down or to notice peers who are alone and to go have a friendly chat with that person. Children notice when adults show kindness toward others and can see how these actions make others happy. As an example, we can tell Jesus’ story of the Good Samaritan who helped a wounded stranger. Jesus, the perfect teacher, was an example when He met the scorned Samaritan woman at the well. He shared with her the kindest thing of all: the forgiveness of all sins in the name and blood of Jesus. It is good to learn the Golden Rule, which says to treat others the same way you wish to be treated. This refers to what Jesus taught in Luke 6:31: “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” When we think about our feelings when we are treated a certain way, it helps us to understand how our own actions make others feel. We can ponder whether we are always kind to everyone, and whether this is an easy task. Sometimes it isn’t easy and sometimes we aren’t as nice as we should be. Jesus reminds us we should try when he admonishes, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). He teaches us that this pleases God and that He will stay close to us. If we are unkind, we want to apologize. If the person we hurt is a believer, we can ask for forgiveness in Jesus’ name and blood. This uplifts us, and we can make a promise to again show love one to another. I am a preschool teacher at Sunday school, and it is always uplifting to see what forgiving and open hearts four-year-olds have. This was evident the day of our Sunday School Christmas Program. One little boy was in tears of nervousness waiting for our class’ turn to sing. I asked if he would feel happier if he had a friend to hold his hand. He nodded through his tears. Every student in the class raised their hand when I asked for a volunteer to hold the boy’s hand. He dried his tears and went to sing happily, surrounded by kindness and holding the warm hand of a friend! May God help us to keep an open heart like a young child, feeling love for others and showing kindness to all people in truth and deed. Sonja Ojala Kindness in the Home and among Siblings “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Prov. 18:24). I reflect on my childhood and the people with whom I spent my young years, those tender years of growing up, learning about life and faith and preparing for the future. How has it come to be that those with whom I often clashed are now my best friends, angels that God has given me as escorts on the narrow pathway to heaven? They are my mother, my father, my sisters and brothers – not only parents but also friends in living faith. We often say, “To have friends, one must be a friend.” We find this teaching in the Bible (Prov. 18:24). I recall being sad once when I was left out of my circle of friends. My parents lovingly reminded and encouraged me to be patient. They told me that this will pass, that my friends will still be there. Dad often instructed, kill with kindness: the meaner someone is to you, the nicer you be to them. I recall becoming upset with a brother as we struggled for the same toy. Now these memories are happy! The recollections of some fights and battles are lighthearted and funny. How happy I am for these people in my life! How can we have remained close into adulthood after those experiences of growing up together? We were taught to care for offenses. As each day ended, we sang a song and said a prayer and preached the gospel of forgiveness in Jesus’ name and blood. The instruction was simple and clear. It was the same for all of us living under the same roof. And this instruction is still the same in my adulthood: take care of offenses as they arise. Use the gospel of forgiveness of sins freely. It is a gift! Put away by name those sins of which you are aware and which trouble your conscience. Kindness and the bond of living faith have kept my parents and siblings close in adult years. As a fruit of faith, siblings and parents have desired to counsel and support each other in life’s questions and challenges. Now I am the mother of a large family of my own. God has blessed me richly. I hope the instructions from my childhood carry over into my life as a mother – that my children can grow with the same home teachings I have been given. I hope that my children too will experience kindness in the home and be loving, believing escorts to each other as they travel through life toward their heavenly home. Laura Laho Bullying – a Threat to Young Believers? Is bullying a reality in God's kingdom? What about cyberbullying? Some may believe that it isn’t an issue, or that one who falls victim to it needs to “buck up,” “develop a thick skin,” “stand up for yourself” or some other platitude. Many, myself included, have been victims of bullying at some time or other and have been told things like this. In Phoenix’s Youth Presentation "Friendships, Bullies, and Social Media," however, we heard that you don’t know the mindset of those to whom you are telling to buck up, or of those you yourself are bullying. What you say or write can be incredibly hurtful, and you must think before you post, said presenter Andy Kesti. Then and Now Kesti started his presentation with a description of his experience with the quintessential bully at his school as a kid. He went through how it happened and was handled. Then, he discussed how this might have been if they all had been handed smartphones and social media accounts. What Experts Say Kesti showed a video about how social media influences teenagers and affects the rise of depression and anxiety in teens and the resultant suicide rate. An issue emphasized in the video was the impact of phones on teens’ and pre-teens’ psyche. We heard how “Giving a phone with access to social media without education or training to an 11-year-old is equivalent to giving them a car with no driver’s ed.” Some teens are so dependent on their phones that a simple phone confiscation can result in self-harm. What the Bible Says Kesti referenced a few verses on friendship from the Bible regarding how we should treat one another, as shown in this example from Galatians 6:1,2: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself. Lest thou be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Simply put, we need to care for our friends and treat them with kindness, as Jesus teaches. Bullies as Friends How do we make friends? A friendship can be formed by greeting someone, showing them kindness, and finding common ground. However, a friendship could also be formed between a person being drawn to someone who bullies others. This type of magnet is someone who is mean to others and puts others down. So why are people friends with them? Well, because many of us, somewhere in that human part of us, like that the person is mean, and we want to be mean too. Maybe we’re not the one actually being mean, but secretly, or not so secretly, we like to watch the person be mean to others. Another component of friendship is sharing. We share fun, beliefs and values. Beliefs and values are only shared between true friends. If these are not discussed between friends, the friendship doesn’t last. A true friend would never leave you for rebuking them because you share values. Cyberbullying Has Impact The clincher of this presentation was a true story (with fictional names) of cyberbullying that happened among the youth in Phoenix. After reading the narrative, Kesti referenced this verse from Paul’s guidance to the Colossians 3:8: “But now ye put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth,” and asked the listeners: “What part of Paul’s guidance in Colossians are the people in this story not following?” Kesti concluded his presentation with the gospel, then reviewed the gravity of cyberbullying and the harm it can cause. Although we can believe sins forgiven, we have to be accountable for our actions – what we say, do and post. If we have posted something that bullies another, we must take it down and speak to that person and take care of matters. Like many other aspects of being a believer in today's times, social media is a place of watching. It may feel like a safe place to vent one's anger or to say something mean or nasty because you are not face-to-face with the other person. However, an online environment is no different in terms of sin: offense, wrath, anger, and a host of other negative experiences are found there as anywhere else. Bullying – and cyberbullying – do occur in God’s kingdom. Awareness can help prevention efforts. Ask for Help If you are being bullied, reach out to an adult. Sometimes the first person you reach out to may not be able to help but keep trying to tell someone.If you are a parent or adult, listen to and believe the victim. Remind them that although we all have faults, they did not cause the bullying and they are not being too sensitive. Ask how you can help, or what would be helpful right now. If you are the bully, you too can reach out for both forgiveness and help. You too can learn to find kindness and empathy in yourself and show these qualities to others. Find a comprehensive list of ways to ask for help at PacerTeensAgainstBullying.org. Rachelle Kurtti Discussion Points 1. Read and discuss the 12th chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans. How can you apply this to your relationships with other believers? 2. How can you apply this instruction to your relationships with those who do not have this faith-gift? 3. Who comes to mind when you think of kindness? Why? Who deserves your kindness? 4. How can we spread kindness and teach kindness to young ones in our lives? 5. How often do you do something for others without expecting something in return?

Darren Hendrickson | 2020 October/November Shepherd's Voice | I remember a time when I was a boy in elementary school. An argument had happened on the playground and bad words slipped from my mouth. This bothered me for the rest of the school day. I came home with a heavy heart. Slowly I walked into the room where my mom was sewing. She looked up and asked what was wrong. The tears came and I told her what had happened. I can still see her sitting by her sewing machine in the afternoon sunlight, preaching the words of the gospel, “Believe all sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and precious blood.” I felt so happy and all my troubles were gone! Jesus spoke to the people of His time and to us about the power to forgive sins. The Bible talks how Jesus once held services in a house. In that place was a man who could not walk. Because of this, his friends opened a hole in the roof of the house and lowered the man down next to Jesus! What was the first thing Jesus did? He immediately did the greatest thing He could do: he forgave the man’s sins. The people that were watching began to question this in their minds. They wondered how someone could have the power to forgive sins. Jesus knew what they were thinking and answered in this way: He asked whether it is harder to forgive sins or to make a person walk who could not walk before. Jesus then answered the question by performing a miracle! He healed the man who could not walk, and the man stood up and walked! What did the man do then? He praised God (Luke 5:23–25). You have also had your sins forgiven, this has happened many times in your life. You have felt happy and free to know that your sins are forgiven. That is how that sick man felt when Jesus healed him. You children can also preach forgiveness to your mother, father, sisters and brothers. You have the power to preach forgiveness to anyone in this world who wants to have their sins forgiven. The forgiveness of sins is the greatest gift anyone can receive. Daren Hendrickson Things to visit about: Why do we say that the gospel of the forgiveness of sins are the most powerful words? In the article we read how Jesus healed a lame man. How does the gospel message heal us? How do we feel after hearing the message that our sins are forgiven? Think about the words of the gospel message. Why do we say that sins are forgiven in Jesus’ blood? How did the lame man feel when he could walk again?

Various Contributors | 2020 October Voice of Zion | Brett Nikula, Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) We live in a world of emotions. God has given us this gift. Emotions are feelings of joy, pleasure and peace that are often so intense they can’t be described. To try to explain the emotions I have as my children run toward me after a long day away, or the peace I feel as I rest into the arms of my wife, seems impossible. Likewise, the gift of faith and the peace of conscience bring about a warmth that is deep and often indescribable. We all have experienced painful emotions in our life. This earth gives us many reasons to yearn for heaven, many reminders to cling to the faith that will bring us to eternal joy. Around us are individuals experiencing difficult hardship and trials. Often we experience emotional pain that feels unbearable. We Are Given Hope It can seem difficult to understand why God allows these things to happen, but He does. May it be that such trials turn us closer to God. My thoughts turn to words from the songwriter of SHZ 382: Now I may know both joy and woe, my flesh shall have to suffer, my soul shall sing thereafter. What God ordains is ever good. My soul, oh, be thou patient: This cup, which tastes of bitterness, at heaven’s feast is absent. For after grief God grants relief, my heart with laughter filling, my ev’ry sorrow stilling (v. 2,3). When John, the writer of Revelations, describes heaven in chapter 24, verse 4, we are given hope of the peace that awaits us there: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. There is hope of relief from our earthly pain. We trust and believe that God allows for our trials and keeping a simple, childlike faith will carry us to the shores of heaven. A sense of peace washes over me for this moment. I feel grateful for the gift of faith. A Response to Loss Grief is one of the strongest and most complex emotions we might face here on this earth. It can be explained with many different sub-emotions. It can change from moment to moment and over time. I can only imagine the grief I would feel if the little feet of my children running to greet me, or my wife and best friend who has added so much to my life, became a memory. Simply imagining it brings strong, painful feelings. Is there a way we can explain grief? A simple search online provides the following as a definition: Grief is the response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something that has died, to which a bond or affection was formed. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, it also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, cultural, spiritual and philosophical dimensions (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grief). A sense of loss is experienced many ways. I remember talking with a woman who was in tears as she felt the pain of a life that could have been if she wouldn’t have spent 25 years supporting a loved one who battled an addiction. I have sat beside individuals as they learn that their hopes and dreams have been dashed. The tears pour out from a spot deep within. Different forms of loss come with many different responses. How to Measure Its Severity A simple way to express how a person responds to this loss would be through an equation. Event + Resources + Meaning = Response It is easy to understand, for example, that the loss of a favorite shirt would differ from the loss of a best friend. Likewise, it is easy to understand how someone who can easily replace that shirt might feel the impact less than the person who has less opportunity and fewer resources. Yet if the shirt was given to you from a sister who died, all the resources in the world would not be able to replace the shirt. Such is the nature of any loss. We have a scale by which we measure the severity of the loss. Our access to emotional resources can provide some protection from the pain, and the meaning we find around the loss (they don’t have to suffer here on earth vs. they were taken too soon) will determine much of our inner response. How others perceive it is another matter. In the field of mental health services, professionals acknowledge how much value a human connection can mean in a time of grief. A clear example of this is found in Job, chapter 2, verses 11–13: “Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted up their voice, and wept; and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven. So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.” Supporting Others Who Grieve We see here that no words were required from Job’s friends, just a simple presence. We see, also, the ability each one of us has to support people who grieve difficult losses. I have often worried about what to say to someone who is experiencing grief. The Bible portion above has provided direction. Along with that has been advice to be curious. Each trial is unique, each person has their own personality. Seek to understand how that trial is affecting them and what it means to them, and meet them in those places. Simply ask, how can I help? Perhaps it is you who is looking for support in a time of loss. This loss may be a death or another type of loss. The hardest days of your life seem to be ahead of you. May you especially feel the gentle warmth of God’s love. Communicate Your Need If God gives the strength, reach out to those around you and clearly communicate your need for support. Freely contact the Home and Family Committee in your home congregation. In some cases, they may advise you to seek professional support. Share with that professional what you are looking for, and often they can connect you with a suitable therapist or counselor. Find someone in the helping profession that is focused in grief and loss and learn from them. Watch for the people in your life who have gone through something similar and who may be in a place that you want to get to. Ask them how they got to that place. Most importantly, trust in God. Continue to put away doubts and sin that attach so quickly, especially when we are facing trials. In closing I return to song 382: What God ordains is ever good. This truth remains unshaken. Though sorrow, need, or death be mine, I shall not be forsaken. I fear no harm, for with his arm in fields of green He hides me, to heaven’s home He guides me (v. 6). A Life of Service and Love Janelle Muhonen My mother gave her all for her children. She taught us the most important matters of life. First and foremost, she taught us matters of faith. She knew the importance of bringing her children to church to hear God’s Word. Even as a single mother she made sure we went to services. She taught us by example and through instruction. She was strict with us and tried to teach us right from wrong. She always told us: “If I don’t teach you, who will?” She taught us to respect our elders and teachers, and she taught us the value of hard work. In addition, she allowed us to learn responsibility. If we did something wrong, we had to pay the consequences. She didn’t defend our bad behavior or irresponsibility. Her life example inspired us to try to live a life according to God’s will. The most significant example from her life was that Mother wanted to serve God’s kingdom. Her income was so low that it was hard for her to pay her church dues. So she started fundraising by putting on dinners in our home. People would pay for the home-cooked meal, and she would give the money to the church. She also checked every Sunday that we had change to put in the Sunday school collection. Even in her old age, she would ask her grown kids as they brought her to church, “Do you have money for collection?” Mother served her family and community by keeping the door of her home open to everyone. She welcomed our friends and was like a second mother to many of them. She served meals, and she hosted overnight visitors passing through and local families. I see now that it was beneficial for us kids to frequently be around families with a mother and a father. Mom made our holidays special even on a tight budget. Christmas and Thanksgiving were always festive. We would wake in the morning to the delicious smell of turkey in the oven and her wonderful cooking. Our home would be decorated, and we always got a $5.00 tree from the Farmers Market in Minneapolis. One year, long after all of us children had reached adulthood, I received my annual Christmas card in the mail. In the card that year was also a five-dollar bill. She always gave a gift or money, and that year it was $5.00, probably the least of any Christmas. I sat there in the hall looking at that $5.00 and thought to myself, money must be tight this year, but she wanted to give us something. I knew every one of my siblings received the same $5.00. I then thought of the widow who gave her last mite. And that is how I think of my mother. My mother’s spending reflected her values. She gave her all to her children and the church. She never complained “poor me” to her children. In spite of all her hardships, she kept her faith most precious. She was obedient and God blessed her. That $5.00 was the most precious present I have ever received. It was a reminder to me of my dear mother, how she kept the faith, walked through life needing the gospel, endeavoring to believe and to teach her children about living faith. That was the most important to her. Years later, my husband Nathan and I had the opportunity to visit Israel. I found a shop in Old Jerusalem where they sold “The widow’s mite.” I wanted to purchase one in memory of my mother. When I told the store owner my story, he gave it to me. He said, “Your story of your mother means more to me than what money could ever buy. I want you to have it.” I put that widow’s mite in Mother’s casket this last February when she passed away. Phillip’s Writings Speak to Us Doug and Sharon Forstie It will soon be thirty years since December 26, 1990. On that day, our son Phillip was killed suddenly in a tragic accident. He was our second child. At the time, we had 11 children – our 12th was born three years later. Phillip had just turned 18 years old on December 20. Six days later, the day after Christmas, he passed away. That Christmas, he had gotten hockey socks for a gift. He washed them right away and hung them up – but he never got to wear them. In an English class that fall, Phillip wrote assignments that especially spoke to us and to his other loved ones and friends. These writings, given to us by his teacher after he passed away, were a great comfort. Phillip wrote how he loved God, and also his family: The person I love the most in this world is God. After that comes my mom and dad, my family and grandparents. I love my mom because she treats me and all of my brothers and sisters with loveÉ she has a lot of patience in everything she doesÉ my mom makes me feel good on the inside. This spoke to me, as his mother, how he had a forgiving heart for my many failings. He also wrote about death and loss and said that he felt thankful he had never lost a family member or cousin or someone really close to him; yet he acknowledged that loss is very hard. Some people in our church have died that I knew, and it was sad, he wrote. He also remembered when a friend’s baby had died at one month old. The living faith that Phillip had in his heart came through in his writings. He wrote that he didn’t need to fear death: I do not think death is something to really be scared of. When I die, if I have faith, I will go to heaven. Some people that believe in reincarnation probably are not scared of dyingÉ they believe they will come back to earth as another person. I do not think this is true. I will have another life, but it will be my soul in heaven. The people that should be scared of dying are those who worship the devil or some other false idol. If I love God when I die and have a clean conscience and soul, I will go to heavenÉ I have all faith in God. He promises us we will go to heaven if we have faith when we die. Hearing and believing the gospel was important to Phillip. After he died, a minister shared with us of a time when Phillip had gone to his grandmother, feeling he had offended her and wanted to have the matter cared for. We received letters that testified of the faith Phillip shared with his believing friends. His death especially spoke to them, and some said: If I had been called that day, would I have been ready? The love that his friends showed to us after his death meant so much. His cousin Keith Moll wrote a poem in his memory. The poem’s last lines revealed the prayer of this dear friend’s heart: In this faith I endeavor to stay until God calls me to be with thee for aye. Phillip’s friends, the young believers in Arizona, sang a song in his memory at the 1991 Phoenix Winter Services. One young girl sent us a card and wrote that she’d been given the gift of life – she hoped that she could remain in faith and serve God. We were comforted by the many messages we received and by the love of the believers. When it would have been Phil’s 20th birthday, youth in our congregation came to our home with 20 roses and sang to us. The love of the young believers touched our hearts very deeply. It was and still is today a great comfort to know that our son was heaven-acceptable, we do not need to doubt. Phillip has achieved his heavenly victory, and we hope and pray we will see him one day in heaven. Discussion Points 1.Grief is often associated with the loss of a loved one, yet one can experience grief from a loss other than death. How have you experienced this? 2.Explain the circumstances of a grieving experience in your life. How did you react? What did you try do to work through your grief? 3.What has been especially helpful to you during a time of grief? What has been the least helpful? Which people have been most supportive? 4.How should we approach one who is in a time of grieving and loss? How can you use your own experiences to assist that person? 5.Some suggest a grief journal, writing letters or poems, or the use of artwork or photograph collages as ways to express one’s loss and grief. Share experiences you may have with these. 6.Many experience grief over a loved one who died not in faith. Share your experience. What helped you attain acceptance of this? 7.Some people advise that it isn’t necessary to say anything to one who is grieving – your presence is enough. Discuss.

Various Contributors | 2020 September Voice of Zion | Marguerite Ojala “And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?” (Exod. 4:11) There are many blessings to having children and adults with special needs in our lives – in our homes, in our families and in our congregations. Each of us probably knows someone who was born with a disability. Uncle Tim My uncle Tim Lever is one of these special people. When he was born with Down syndrome, in 1964, my grandparents were advised that it would be best to put him in an institution for the disabled. God guided them to instead raise him alongside the rest of their children. As God’s Word reminds us, we can trust in the Lord and He will guide our lives (Prov. 3:5,6). How different our family would be if they had done as the doctors advised. Uncle Tim was born with bright red hair and a gentle and happy disposition. He is affectionate with his family and loves everyone. He always tries to connect with people, but due to his disability it’s sometimes difficult for others to understand him. Yet this doesn’t stop him from trying. Tim doesn’t like it if he thinks someone might be upset with him, so much that he is quick to say he’s sorry and even apologize for things he didn’t do. Tim will hold a grudge if he feels like he has been wronged by someone, but he’s also easily talked out of it and wants to take care of matters. A Joy and Blessing to Us All Tim loves excitement, drama and the chaos of large gatherings. When our family gathers, Tim often becomes a source of entertainment as he acts out happenings from the past. He binds us together with the common joy of knowing him and our shared love for him. It has been special to watch how my own children now also benefit from interactions with their great-uncle. They have learned to accept those who are different from us, who cannot do all the things others can do. We all have fun Tim stories to share. One such story my mother recalls was from many years ago during a sermon by visiting minister, Elmer Alajoki. Tim got up to use the restroom. In the meantime, Elmer finished his sermon and sat down in Tim’s vacant seat. When Tim returned, he tapped Elmer on the shoulder, “My spot, my spot,” he said. Elmer promptly got up and found another place to sit. Tim has also been a blessing to our Seattle congregation. Everybody knows him. He loves to be helpful and often clears tables after snack or meals. He enjoys passing the microphone at Bible class and discussions and has enjoyed washing dishes at camps over the years. Some who have lost loved ones tell of how Tim comforted them at their loved one’s funeral with a pat on the shoulder and the simple words, “That’s okay, it’s okay.” His Simple Faith My grandma always reminded us that Tim was born one of God’s children and that he doesn’t need to do anything special to make it to heaven. “He’s on his way to heaven,” she would say. She and my grandpa worried what Tim’s life would be like when they passed away or could no longer care for him. Even in this God has guided and protected uncle Tim, who needs help with tasks of daily living. He has lived for the past ten years with my parents and is able to spend time with his siblings, nieces and nephews and friends. As he has aged, Tim has had disability-related struggles. He has had to spend time in the hospital with health concerns. In every phase of his life, uncle Tim has retained a child-like innocence and with such simple faith remains one of God’s own. His faith is an example to all who know him. He will continue to be cared for in this life until the day God calls him to his heavenly home. Heather, Our Sunshine Girl Joel and Shelly Martin How excited we were when we found out we were going to have a new baby. During one of the early doctor appointments we learned that our unborn child had a heart defect and that a large percentage of babies with that defect also have Down syndrome. Naturally we were a little apprehensive and even a bit upset with the information. We put our trust in God that He would guide us according to His will. After our baby Heather was born, she had a number of surgeries and many doctor appointments, including a successful open-heart surgery at six months of age. Happy Energy Heather is a very happy child, a nonstop ball of energy who has a way of involving others. She attracts attention – sometimes a bit too much – and isn’t shy even with those she doesn’t know. She feels the need to say “Hi!” to people in passing, especially has a liking for babies and wants to hug every one of them. We have been taking many walks in these times of coronavirus, bringing the neighbor ladies yellow daisy bouquets! Heather has received a lot of help from many in our local congregation, both adults and children, which is very much appreciated. She especially loves and remembers her Sunday school teachers and points them out at church. Heather loves to play outside, ride her trike and her yellow car. She loves when children want to play with her. At a recent graduation party, she was preparing “food” for a couple girls a few years older than her – they were all having a good time! A Joy to Her Siblings Heather is a joy to have in our household. Since her siblings are all older than her, they have been able to enjoy and share the quirky little things that only Heather does. When someone comes home, we can almost guarantee that Heather is waiting close by the door to greet them. Tiffany and Diane, her two older sisters who live away from home, love getting unexpected phone calls from Heather. Her phone calls can turn a bad day into a good one, putting her sisters in a positive mood. She tells them about her day and what she is going to do. Since Heather has difficulty with speech, she has learned some sign language. She has made some of her own signs for words, some for certain people, some for places she likes to go and others that we don’t even recognize at first. She continues to progress in many areas of learning typical to most children. We are reminded by God’s Word that He has made each one of us a unique individual in His own way: “So God created man in his own image” (Gen. 1:27). Our family is thankful for the blessing we received from God – our sunshine child and sister, Heather. Perfect in God’s Eyes Natalie Kiviahde When our fifth child, Lewis Daniel, arrived in our lives on an August day nine years ago, we didn’t expect the journey we would have with him. Often on this journey, I have remembered the words from Matthew: “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him and set him in the midst of them” (18:1,2). Lewis seemed to be a normal baby at first, but at six months of age began three and a half years of doctor visits and testing. Lewis was finally given a diagnosis: his GNB1 gene was mutated. There were only three other known cases in the world at that time, and the doctors told us that he would have to write his own story. I told our other children about Lewis’s diagnosis – that he might never be able to walk or talk or do things like others do, but that God made him how he is and that Lewis is perfect in God’s eyes. We will love him still. The kids replied, “Of course we will love him – he’s our brother!” They have never questioned why we have a child with handicaps and why God made him the way he is. Daily Challenges Having a child with handicaps can be challenging. Since Lewis is nonverbal, we are constantly trying to guess what he wants or needs. He needs constant eyes on him since he gets into plenty of “mischief.” We also spoon-feed him – it is like taking care of an infant. Our life in most ways revolves around Lewis. We need to consider him and his needs in our home, our vehicle, our travel, our visiting and our free time. I have questioned many times why God made Lewis the way he is. Why did He give him to us? I might never know these answers, but I trust that in heaven God gives all answers. One particular song of Zion expresses the ache that is sometimes in my heart: “All trials are then like a dream that is past, forgotten all trouble and sorrow. All questions and doubts have been answered at last; then dawneth eternity’s morrow. Have mercy upon us, O Jesus!” (SHZ 405:6). Trust in God’s Will The Bible tells me to trust God: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths” (Prov. 3:5,6). I can trust completely in God’s will and plan. I can be happy and rejoice in what God has blessed me with. It helps when Lewis has such loving and caring schoolteachers, therapy teachers and caregivers, who have such a special gift to care for children with special needs. Lewis currently can walk with a gait trainer, scoots on his bottom and communicates with gestures and a PODD book. He laughs, cries, yells, recognizes people, loves attention and loves being outside. Daily Contentment Lewis reminds me daily that we can be happy and content with whatever is put before us. Most importantly he has reminded me that being a child of God in His precious kingdom is so simple – to simply have childlike faith and take care of matters that weigh on the conscience with the precious gospel. Lewis and our family need prayers. We want to remain in God’s precious kingdom until we reach heaven’s home. I pray that I can one day see Lewis in heaven running, walking and talking. Life with Bennett Leila Jurmu “The world needs more Bennetts” is a phrase I’ve found myself using often. This is said jokingly – but also seriously. Time has a way of illuminating the many blessings that come with raising a child with special needs. Bennett helps us see what truly matters in life a little more clearly. When everything feels broken and chaotic and we realize how little control we have in life, all that is left is to trust in God. We know that His will will be done, and it will be good. Bennett Teaches Us As time passes and Bennett’s needs become a way of life, we are able to see and understand how blessed we are to have Bennett as our own. It’s incredible to watch his siblings grow up in a world where feeding tubes, treatments, hospitalizations and appointments are normal. They quickly become in-tune to his neurological fragility and know how to respond to him. Without hesitation they leap into action. Taking care of Bennett has taught us many things, such as kindness, compassion, patience and empathy. We can see and know that in spite of outward appearances and abilities there is so much love and worthiness underneath.We have learned to not assume things, but to freely give grace because we often cannot know or see what is going on behind the scenes. This reminds us to speak kindly of others and show empathy more often. God’s Plan Is Good Before Bennett, it would have been incomprehensible to choose this life. We could not have fathomed how a family would cope and would have been even fearful. But here we so clearly can see how God knows best. Happiness and contentment have become our goals – for Bennett and for us. We understand that tomorrow is unknown and not guaranteed. Therefore, today we appreciate and enjoy Bennett and his presence in our lives. Life has changed for sure; we’ve all had to make adjustments to our own hopes and expectations. But these adjustments are easier when we can see the blessings we’ve been given, like time spent as a family, at home. We have found that we visit more and appreciate each other’s company. We are incredibly thankful to God for our son Bennett and the blessings that help make our day-to-day life so much more beautiful. Discussion Points 1.Sing Song of Zion 394, which is based on Psalm 139:13–16. How do the words in this song relate to people with special needs? 2.Read Bible portions John 9:2–4 and Proverbs 3:5–6. What do they teach us? 3.What have been your personal experiences with those with special needs? 4.How or where have you found comfort when faced with struggles or needs, those of your own or of your loved ones?

Adrian Pirness | 2020 June/July Shepherd's Voice | Do you remember the first time you went to camp? How did you feel? I remember the first time I went. I was in 4th grade, 10 years old. The camp was held on a weekend for children in grades 3 through 9. Before this, we didn’t have youth camps. I was happy to go but was also a little nervous about being away from home overnight. Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesian believers. He instructed them about many things, including about being kind. “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Eph. 4:32). When we’re kind, our friends and others around us feel good and safe and are happy to be with us. Jesus teaches the same in the Golden Rule (Luke 6:31). We want to treat others as we would like to be treated. Everyone wants to belong and feel that others notice and appreciate them. When my children go to camp, I have a challenge for them. I ask them to meet and talk to one person they haven’t known before. I know this can be hard to do because it’s something that can be uncomfortable for me even as an adult. But from these little visits, we may find a new friend! Showing kindness can happen in little ways. We can smile at someone we meet or pass by. We can say hi and greet with God’s Peace. We can hold the door open for another person, take someone’s tray after a camp or church meal or invite someone to join our visit or activity. Sometimes we may notice that somebody needs help and we can ask, “How can I help you?” I remember a sad time at camp when I was young. It happened to a dear friend, although at that time I didn’t realize this person would be such a dear friend later on. We were at camp together and he was not treated nicely by others. I was also treated unkindly, but I even said mean things to this person to avoid the unkind things that were happening to me. I thought that those who were mean might leave me alone. Many years later I was able to visit with this person. We remembered this sad time and most importantly were able to preach the gospel to each other. When you’re at camp or church and see someone being treated wrongly, say something. If you feel you can’t say something to the person who is being mean, tell your mom or dad or tell a staff member at camp. Apostle Paul reminds us to forgive each other. It is precious and important that we can ask for and believe our sins forgiven. We are weak, we make mistakes and we offend others. It is good that we care for offenses with the gospel. When we go to church or camp, we can pray that God will bless this time together! Adrian Pirness Things to visit about: 1.Song of Zion 463 speaks about our speech. What does it remind us to do? Or not to do? Sing this song and visit about it. 2.Challenge yourself next time you go to camp or church: visit with someone who you haven’t visited with before.

Change in Plans for 2020 LLC Summer Services, July 2–5 The 2020 LLC Summer Services will not be held in Marquette, Michigan. Due to the restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Summer Services this year will be changed from a large, in-person assembly of service guests to an online format. Although we will miss the fellowship of gathering together, we remember the core purpose for which all services are arranged, the preaching and hearing of God’s Word. Due to this change, the Ishpeming congregation and the Eastern Area will host their long planned-for Summer Services in Marquette, Michigan, one year later, July 1-4, 2021, if God so wills. A decision on changing the arrangements for this year’s Summer Services has been pending since LLC Winter Services in Phoenix were canceled. Those involved with planning these services have anticipated that large gatherings may not be possible in July. Nonetheless, all have hoped that things would somehow be different. In light of so many uncertainties, the LLC Board’s decision to change services is deemed as the right and responsible decision to make at this time. The Annual Meeting of the LLC is held yearly in conjunction with Summer Services. Notice of the plans for holding the LLC Annual Meeting will be sent to LLC congregations in early May. Currently plans are being made for an online meeting format. The agenda for the meetings, along with the 2021 LLC Draft Operating Plan and an Operating Plan video, will also be provided in May. Amidst disappointment, joy comes knowing that there is yet possibility to preach the Word of God. At the core of the sermon is the freeing message of the gospel, the forgiveness of sins. It may be possible this year that listeners will be able to gather with friends and family to hold small-scale Summer Services in the security of their own homes and yards. As we transition to an online format, our plan is to join with the Summer Services Radio (Kesäseuraradio) programming in Finland, in cooperation with our sister organization, SRK. The online programming will be in English and originate from the LLC office. Programming will be accessible on the LLC website and will include continuous broadcasts between scheduled service times. More information will follow as work continues. Refocusing our planning will require much effort. We pray for God’s blessings! Eric Jurmu, LLC Executive Director, ejurmu@llchurch.org Jim Frantti, LLC Board Chairman, jfrantti@llchurch.org

Motherhood is a labor of love and a gift to each of us. It may seem that mother’s work goes unnoticed and is unappreciated. This Mother’s Day – and all days of the year – we can take time to celebrate and remember our mother’s selfless acts of love, show her our appreciation and thank her for all she does. Remember mother in prayer: In all her joy and weeping hold mother in Your keeping. Increase her faith, we pray. Oh, strengthen her and guide her, Your wisdom, Lord, provide her to teach her children every day. O gracious Heav’nly Father, our mother gently gather to Jesus’ heart of love. Through all of our tomorrows we cast on Him our sorrows and yearn for heaven’s home above. (SHZ 423:5,6) Happy Mother’s Day and God’s abundant blessings to you, dear mothers. Updates on LLC Activities Although the LLC office was closed for the month of April, staff were able to work remotely from their homes. Due to COVID-19, Northern Michigan University (NMU) has closed all its buildings through the end of the school year and gone to online classes. As I write this, we are preparing a contingency plan for Summer Services if they need to be canceled. An announcement about services will have been made by the time you receive this issue of the Voice of Zion. Regular updates on Summer Services planning can also be found on the LLC website. Contingency planning will be prepared as well for the LLC Annual Meeting, how a virtual meeting might be organized if this is needed. We will look into meeting apps that can be used for such things as virtual voting. To prepare our congregations and their delegates for the LLC Annual Meeting, a video outlining the main points of the 2021 draft LLC Operating Plan will be sent to congregations by May 15. The meeting notice, agenda and related information will be included. All foreign mission trips are on hold as the COVID-19 situation remains closely monitored. This includes LLC’s summer mission trips to Finland. We will continue to monitor plans for the SRK and SFC mission trips scheduled to North America this summer, with prayerful hopes that they happen as planned. All LLC-sponsored camps are canceled through May. We will continue to monitor the situation with our camp directors and make adjustments as necessary. A contingency plan is being worked on in case LLC confirmation schools in July and August need to be altered. We will make any announcements regarding changes by June 1. The HLC Language Camp scheduled for July has been canceled, due to the significant amount of planning required and the uncertainty of international travel. The Humanitarian Aid Committee (HAC) sent a larger than normal quarterly grant to our foreign mission areas. Many in those countries are experiencing an interruption in daily life that also affects their daily bread. It is good to remember them in prayer. Because of the uncertainties due to COVID-19, we will wait to see how this situation unfolds before posting for LLC office positions being vacated by employee retirements this summer and fall. The current situation has also brought positives and blessings. It seems that God is giving opportunity to consider other ways of doing the work and is preparing us for the future. The short evening devotions that started due to the request of those confined and lonely have been very positively received. Plans are to continue them at least for the near-term. Congregations have requested Sunday school support. Staff will continue to develop digital lessons to assist in this, similar to the first more broadly distributed lesson on Easter Sunday. Jon Bloomquist and Jim Frantti served Ecuadorean believers with online services on Easter weekend. The brothers served from their respective homes and Maria Wuollet translated from her home in Phoenix to listeners in Ecuador. It is one small way we can support those in faraway lands during this time of uncertainty. God has graced us with a time to work. May He continue to guide the efforts in His kingdom. Eric Jurmu ‍

The evening devotions have been warmly received and will continue as an LLC effort. We thank the Phoenix and Menahga congregations for the work they have done. In the next few weeks, we will add additional ministers to this work and also consolidate the broadcasts under a single LLC-based feed. The LLC website listen page will reflect these changes as they happen.