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Tommi and Liisa Kinnunen | Shepherd's Voice 2021 February/March - Home and Family Article -- In life, we take many things for granted. We expect tomorrow to come as usual. We may not give much thought to the things that God does for us. He loves us so much that He wants us to have everything we need for our daily lives. In this time we are living, we might wonder whether God is still caring for us. We may wonder if we or a loved one might get sick, or how long the pandemic might last. Maybe you’ve wondered when life will go back to normal, or does God remember our country’s leaders. So many questions can weigh on our minds that we may become fearful. Especially in times like this, we are encouraged to turn to God’s Word to find comfort and peace. He knows the worries we have. He knew what we would experience in life even before the world was formed (Isaiah 46:10). The Bible reminds us of how there is a purpose for all things (Eccl. 3:1–8). This includes this time of pandemic and other current issues in our countries. We can simply trust that God’s ways and understanding are far above ours. Often, we want answers, and in looking for them we easily forget what the Bible teaches us. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” (Prov. 3:5). The wilderness journey is a good picture of our life of faith here in this world. That journey happened when long ago the Israelites left Egypt and set out for the promised land. Just as we experience today, the Israelites were faced with many difficulties along the way. There were times when they felt that God had forgotten them. We can read about how their trials were for a purpose, known only to God. They had to be reminded to simply trust in God’s wisdom. We can read about how God did not forget them. He cared for them to the end of the journey and gave them the promised land of Canaan, just as He had promised. God always cares for His children, even today. The believers from biblical times were no different than we are today. We don’t always understand current events and happenings, but God does, and He has allowed them. He wants us to trust in Him even when we do not understand. He will care for us through every trial and worry. We can trust in God’s Word and in His care. Even when we don’t understand everything, we can feel the joy of believing! God’s gospel message gives us strength to believe in His grace, truth and undying love for us. ‍ Things to Visit About: 1. How did Jesus remind His disciples about God’s care? (Matt. 6) 2. What things do we often take for granted? 3. God’s grace contains His given gifts that we do not deserve. To whom does God extend His grace? (Matt. 5:45) What is our greatest gift of grace? (Matt. 1:21) 4. How does God care for you? ‍

The Voice of Zion October 2021 - Home and Family Articles -- If you close your eyes and imagine heaven, what do you see? Do you see roads paved with gold and serene landscapes? Do you see mansions and angels? The Bible refers to heaven in several places and we sing of heaven in our songs and hymns of Zion, but none of us really know the full extent of its beauty and peace! Thoughts of Heaven James Moll | The Voice of Zion October 2021 - Home and Family Article -- Stop! Before you read past this first paragraph, look away or close your eyes. Visualize heaven. Take your time. Each one of us has some perception of heaven. Of course, we have been influenced by scripture portions, songs, artists and discussions. Yet, the fact of the matter is that we simply don’t know. Why do we not know? Apostle Paul writes: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Cor. 2:9). Juhani Uljas repeats this in a different way: “Scripture speaks much about the reality of eternal life, but little about what eternal life is like” (The Treasure Hidden in a Field, LLC, 2003). In John 14:2, Jesus tells His disciples, “In my Father’s house are many mansions.” However, He did not describe the mansions, nor did He give other descriptions even though He had come to earth from heaven and would have been the perfect authority. When I was given the task to create a summer services presentation on “Heaven,” I had no idea how to proceed. In fact, even now years later, I do not feel any more prepared to write about heaven. I suspect most can relate to my sentiments. How well did you visualize heaven and what would you have to say about the topic? Over the years I have occasionally been asked to repeat the presentation. When I ask people to describe heaven, most audiences relate more of how they expect to feel in heaven: they are joyful, serene, calm and happy as they sing praises, without sorrow or tears. Most descriptions include clouds, streets of gold, musical instruments, green pastures and the like. Some people picture being in a setting associated with their memories of beautiful places, such as a seaside or mountain scene. Of course, no human who died and went to heaven has returned to describe it. The poet Niilo Rauhala comments, “So little we speak of heaven.” The verses of one song relate about the indescribable wonder of heaven. “No tongue its beauty tells” and the verses speak about eternal life, no tears, and “God has a joy prepared which mortal ear has never heard nor mortal vision shared, which never pierced a mortal breast, by mortal lips was ne’er expressed” (SHZ 586). However, the children’s song 448 speaks specifically of treasures in heaven. The song relates of golden crowns, white robes, harps, and streets made of gold. There is a fountain of life with streams of comfort flowing. In heaven there is eternal light and anthems of praise. We are also familiar with song of Zion 587, which enthusiastically resounds with, “Joy, joy, joy” bursting forth from an innumerable throng of singers! I imagine that all angels will be granted perfect singing voices, voices that will never tire. Do you now have a clearer picture of heaven? Personally, after thinking about this subject, it feels as though the more I learn, the more I realize how little I know. Most discussions have centered around the desire of people one day to be able to rejoice eternally in heaven. I never hear of the alternative, of a desire for eternal torment. Moreover, I have never met anyone who didn’t express the expectation of arriving one day on heaven’s shores. And I have heard stories from both believers and others who relate of angels coming to take a loved one at the moment of death, and of being drawn towards a bright light. The martyr Stephen saw “the heavens opened, and the son of man standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56) but not heaven itself. How can our limited human understanding begin to grasp something that is far beyond human experience: something that is so perfect, and something that begins but never ends? Who can grasp eternity or infinity? How did our God create everything from nothing with His Word only? Reason is limited. We can only see faintly with eyes of faith. Apostle Paul says, “For now we see through a glass, darkly” (1 Cor. 13:12). We have often been reassured of the pathway to the destination. The bloody footprints of our Redeemer mark the way. Former saints have traveled that narrow way; our escorts today help us keep our feet on the old paths, the tried-and-true way. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Heaven waits for all who remain believing and endeavoring in faith to the destination. Even if we neither understand nor see, by faith we have a sure hope of one day experiencing the bliss of heaven. Our vision will be clear. Heaven of Grace, Heaven of Glory Matthew Keranen | The Voice of Zion October 2021 - Home and Family Article -- In sermons and in writings I have encountered the phrases “heaven of grace” and “heaven of glory.” I wanted to know more about what these terms mean, especially when juxtaposed. So I turned to my friend, our congregation’s pastor Jouko Haapsaari for insight. Here is an excerpt from our text message exchange. Matt: Jouko, we sometimes hear people speak of a heaven of grace. What do we mean when we speak of this? Jouko: Isn’t it interesting that the Bible says Apostle Paul was “caught up to the third heaven,” as he writes in 2 Cor. 12:2. And in the Lord’s Prayer in Finnish we read “Our Father, who are in heavens.” Note the plural. So, the concept of heaven is deeper than we think. Matt: That is interesting. Also, in English we sometimes say “the heavens,” and maybe to some that’s a poetic way of saying the sky or “the skies.” But in the King James version of the Bible it mentions “heavens” such as in Deut. 10:14. “Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the Lord’s thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is.” Jouko: God is mightier than we think. And why wouldn’t He be? Matt: Yes, He is. I ponder the heaven of glory. What is that exactly? Jouko: I remember some old ministers preached about heaven on earth – in God’s kingdom. They said that the descriptions of heaven, for example in Revelations, refer to God’s kingdom as the heaven of glory. The beauty of God’s kingdom can only be seen by one who is already therein. Also, I think that the heaven of glory is the goal of faith, eternity there where God is. It is those mansions that Jesus promised to prepare for His own, in John 14:2. Matt: It will indeed be glorious. Grace will no longer be needed in eternity, right? Jouko: I remember hearing about faith, hope and love, that in heaven faith will change to seeing, and hope to eternal bliss; neither faith nor hope will any longer be needed. Only love will make it all the way to heaven. Grace won’t be needed either because there we will no longer have temptations or sin! What a wonderful place. Matt: That is such a wonderful thought to hold on to: no more temptations or sin. Jouko: Indeed. Here we are tempted and must battle daily for our crown. Matt: But while grace is yet needed, we are – or we can be – in the heaven of grace. I’m not sure if this is a saying that everyone knows about. How would you explain this concept to, for example, a confirmation student? Or to someone who has just received the grace to repent of unbelief? Jouko: Grace as a concept means unmerited goodness from God. When a person is in the heaven of grace, he or she is under the protection of God’s grace. The most wonderful gift from God is the forgiveness of all sins that we can enjoy every day; it is unlimited even to the biggest sinner. God is good! Matt: So, thinking of what a young one might wonder about this, are we in the heaven of grace at all times? Jouko: The Bible mentions “standing in God’s grace” only twice (Rom. 5:2 and 1 Pet. 5:12), but it is enough. Every Word from God’s mouth will stand forever. Matt: Who is standing in God’s grace? Is that us? Jouko: Yes, it is us. God’s children sure have a reason to wonder and be thankful for it. Sometimes we try to think in our human way what the heaven of glory will be like. Have you ever thought about it and how do you imagine it will be? Or have you heard others describing it? Matt: It will be like an unending dream, complete rest and happiness. Nothing uncomfortable or pressing. No worrisome thoughts. But even these words feel lacking in capturing what I wish to express. One thing I think of is how Finnish people write in death announcements, “jälleennäkemisen ihanassa toivossa,” which means “clinging to the wonderful hope of seeing each other again.” That makes me think maybe we’ll know our loved ones who also inherit heaven’s home. Wouldn’t that be wonderful? My grandparents for example. Or my sister who only lived a short moment. Oh, how I’d love to see them and know them. Jouko: I agree. How good it will be to meet those, who we have missed here after their time was over. It also feels so comforting to think that I won’t feel temptations of sin, and only love prevails. Matt: So, while we await our eternal life in heaven, in the heaven of glory, we have this wonderful gift of the heaven of grace here on earth. When through God’s goodness, we taste God’s grace and a foretaste of heaven. That is what heaven of grace means: through grace we are given a foretaste of heaven. Jouko: Exactly so, and that is why believers in biblical times compared this heaven of grace – God’s kingdom – to a golden candlestick, without any fault or blemish. God’s grace is so wonderful and perfect that it is the closest we can come to heaven while yet here on earth. ‍ So Little We Speak of Heaven Niilo Rauhala, ‍Translation: Editors | The Voice of Zion October 2021 - Home and Family Poem -- So little we speak of heaven. Our eyes press shut, darkness fills the room. Children of prayers lie yet awake, not playing together – night’s blanket enfolds unbearably warm. So little we speak of heaven, though the glow of evening is like the arm of daylight yet extended toward us. ‍ Niin vähän me puhumme taivaasta. Silmämme painuvat kiinni, pimeä täyttää huoneen. Huokauksen lapset valvovat, eivät leiki keskenään – yön peitto kääriytyy tuskanlämmin. Niin vähän me puhumme taivaasta, vaikka illan kajo on kuin päivän käsivarsi yhä ojentunut meitä kohti. ‍ ‍Discussion Points 1. What is your idea of heaven? What is the basis of this idea? 2. We learn that in heaven “faith will be changed to seeing.” What will we see? 3. What in your personal experience prepares you for heaven? What causes you to yearn for heaven? 4. If it happens as people say, that we will have a joyous reunion on heaven’s shore, who will you see first? Or will we recognize loved ones that have gone before? 5. What is the rest of the righteous? 6. Will we become angels when we die? 7. Read 1 Thess. 4:16,17. Discuss. 8. What can we learn about heaven from the story of Lazarus’ death?

The Voice of Zion November 2021 - Home and Family Articles -- Most of us will admit that we are tired and forgetful when it comes to prayer. But isn’t prayer an expression and exercise of our personal faith, that brings with it comfort and calm? Prayer is in itself a worship practice and an acknowledgement that God truly is the Giver and Creator of all things. This month’s theme and the articles on this page seek to remind us that God hears the prayers of His children and He will answer them in His time and way. A Father’s Lord’s Prayer Brent Herrala | The Voice of Zion November 2021 - Home and Family Article -- Perhaps you are a busy mother or father as I am, with hectic days and chaotic evenings. Home life is busy, work is endless, and the days seem to end just as fast as they have started. Perhaps the children’s energy has exceeded yours, and you were left at the end of the day feeling grumpy and short-tempered. Does this picture describe your situation? Has the daily toil of life left you feeling tired and exhausted? Soon the day has come to an end, and the children have gathered on our laps and around us to pause and fold their little hands. ‍ Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. ‍ Dear father, give me a moment to pause. Give me a moment to consider You, from whom these blessings come. Help me to teach my young ones to hold You close and cherish Your holy name. ‍ Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. ‍ God, You know how busy a parent’s life is. Keep us close to Your kingdom. Keep our children close to Your kingdom as well. Guide them through childhood according to Your will. Let me trust in Your guidance and wisdom with raising our children. ‍ Give us this day our daily bread. ‍ The days are long, the work can be hard. Inspire me to do what Your will is to provide, and give that which You find necessary in the task of upbringing my children. Help me remind that all these things in life which You have given have come from Your loving hands. ‍ Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. ‍ It seems the day did not slip by without my becoming short with the kids. It seems I spent much time prodding them to help with chores around the house, breaking up spats over silly things, or getting after them for doing this or doing that. Help me to forgive, and give me the wisdom to teach to forgive and to ask for forgiveness as well, remembering that I am the example which is set before them. Keep the desire for the gospel close to our hearts. ‍ Lead us not into temptation. ‍ Father, satan works tirelessly to entice us all into sin. Give us strength to shield ourselves from the temptations that press upon us. Help me teach the children to utilize the power of prayer and of the gospel to help protect them from those specific temptations that press on them. ‍ Deliver us from evil. ‍ Keep the often-appearing evil thoughts and deeds away. Give me the strength I need to face the evil in my daily calling. Protect these children from the wickedness we see and hear in the world around us. ‍ After evening prayers, the kids’ minds turn to the next step in bedtime routine. Sometimes one recounts something of the day which they wish to share prior to sleep. Sometimes, the post-prayer conversation turns immediately to wandering thoughts, or some temporal item that has lingered in their mind. Nevertheless, they are left with an impression that Mom or Dad wants to pause with them in prayer. The gospel is preached with each child, and a peace falls over the bedroom as kids crawl into beds and drift off to sleep. As difficult as it can be to take the time to pause around the Lord’s Prayer and Benediction for a few moments with the kids each night, it is good to use these powerful, God-provided prayers to teach and reinforce the most important matter in life – to put sin away and keep faith and a clean conscience. We remember that the Lord’s Prayer is referred to as the “perfect prayer” and contains everything that we ought to pray for. I encourage you, as we’ve tried to do as parents, to end the day with the children in prayer and preaching the gospel! Even in this effort we can turn to our Father in prayer and ask for renewed strength and resolve. ‍ ‍ For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen. ‍ God, you are most powerful. You are in control and know exactly what I can and cannot handle. You know just what I need, and you provide strength for each day. Let me remember this as I provide for and raise these children. Amen. ‍ ‍ Prayer Carries Me Sandra Hall | The Voice of Zion November 2021 - Home and Family Article -- Prayer has always been a part of a believer’s life of faith. For some reason, we tend to turn to prayer in times of trial. I remember praying to God as a little girl, that my mom would be happy and that my dad would repent and come back into our lives. I kept that prayer in my heart when my parents were alive. God doesn’t always grant every wish we pray for. Life experiences have helped me learn that living in sin will eventually cause one to lose their precious faith and much unhappiness will befall you. My mother was an obedient servant and strived to keep faith as the most important matter in her life. Despite her heavy burdens, she remained faithful, and God blessed her life. She was blessed with believing children, good health, a strong mind, a good work ethic and an outgoing personality. She lived a long life and had a happy retirement. For that, I will be forever grateful. As I grew into adulthood God gave me various trials, and I recognized that some were similar to my mother’s trials. Mother often told me, “Don’t depend just on one friend; have many friends. You never know when you might lose that one friend.” Throughout her life, I witnessed how she lost friends to natural death and to heresy. She was able to pick herself up and make new friends. Another time in my life, I was faced with a difficult pregnancy. At first, I prayed to God, that if this baby were to be born severely handicapped, please take him home. My baby was born full-term looking beautiful and healthy! But inside, he was severely handicapped. I told God, I changed my mind! I want this baby! But that was not to be. The doctors could not save our baby. Sometimes, we don’t know what to pray for. In time, I learned to accept God’s plan. The doctor had told me that as long as my baby is attached to the umbilical cord, he will grow and thrive. But as soon as the umbilical cord is cut off, he cannot breathe and cannot live. The lesson I learned from that trial is this: if we remain attached to God’s kingdom, we will be loved and cared for and thrive. When we remove ourselves and go a different path, faith withers and dies, just like a branch removed from its tree. Another painful trial came after the passing of my father. It dredged up painful memories that I thought I had buried. I realized that as much as I yearned for that fatherly figure in my life, I never got it. I had to fervently pray to God to help me out of this black hole. Again, God saw fit to answer my prayers. My believing spouse was there for me, I had precious believing friends to lean on, and God gave me many children to keep my life full and happy. The dark clouds lifted, and life felt busy and fun. But then storm clouds started brewing. Spiritual confusion descended upon us. My footsteps became heavy and my eyes of faith began to dim. I felt lost and deserted. Why couldn’t I see clearly and hear the voice of the Good Shepherd? Many nights I cried out in anguish, “Dear God, show me the right path! I need to hear and feel the Holy Spirit, and to know that I am still a child of God.” I began listening to online sermons. I poured out my heart to a friend and asked for that precious gospel for all my doubts, fears, and wrong understandings. I felt great comfort, but still many questions, doubts and fears lingered. I continued to pray for peace for my troubled heart. On a beautiful sunny day, basking in God’s nature and listening to an online sermon, God answered my prayer! He opened my heart to the beautiful soothing Word of God revealed through the Holy Spirit in that sermon! I cried out to my husband, “I get it! I can hear!” The whole way home, I listened to sermons and rejoiced when my spirit said, “Amen!” Despite the blessings I can see along my life’s path, at times my anguish has been great. When loved ones have struggled or denied faith, my pleas to God have become almost unbearable. I cried out to a dear elderly friend, “This pain in my heart! Oh, I pray to God to take away this pain!” She reassured me, “In time, God will ease that pain in your heart.” I had to learn to cling to the meaning of the saying, “Where there’s life, there’s hope.” I look around in God’s kingdom and I see these beautiful escorts that have been there to help fill the holes and missing gaps in my life. Now I look further and I see these battle-worn soldiers, who have lost much but still thrive and survive. And I ponder: how did they do it? How did they get this far? Deep down I know. God has helped me understand this: when we keep our gaze towards heaven, when we strive to keep faith and a clean conscience, when we remain in the love of God’s kingdom, God will carry us to the end of our journey. We have much to be thankful for! I have learned to count my many blessings! I have learned to grasp the goodness of life, yet my utmost prayer remains that I will be granted eternal life in heaven. ‍ My Prayer for Understanding Karen Fuller | The Voice of Zion November 2021 - Home and Family Article -- I have a vivid memory from 6th grade. One day I got off the school bus and broke down in tears on my short walk to the house. I had just learned that a loved one had left faith and I prayed to God, “Even though I am struggling with friendships now, I hope I can always stay believing.” Shortly after my husband and I were married, differences over a certain matter began to appear among believers, and there was much discussion; many were concerned and others were in support of the matter. I didn’t know what was correct or what I should think of all the discussion. My husband and I had many conversations with friends, family members and ministers about faith. During this time my husband understood where the truth was, while I remained confused as to how I believed. After many conversations and hearing one side from my husband and another from some family and loved ones, it came time for me to really recognize how I believe, I could no longer just listen to or follow what my husband had to say or anyone else. Following other people will not get me to heaven. I broke down and realized that I cannot just ignore this matter that has caused such division within God’s kingdom. I needed to go to church and listen to God’s Word. And I needed to pray that I would hear the Spirit and be obedient. I fully realized that faith is personal and I had to believe for myself. I turned to God and prayed again that He would show me where the truth is. It was not long after this that I was having a conversation with a loved one and I turned to her and said, “I just cannot agree with you.” Instantly a weight was lifted off my shoulders, and I then understood how I believe, that I was securely believing as I did when I was a child. I am at peace. God answered the prayer I remember making in 6th grade, a prayer that I had forgotten about for so long. ‍ ‍Questions for Discussion: 1. How has prayer helped you in your life and faith? 2. How can parents teach their children to pray? 3. What can we say to those who feel that God has not answered a prayer? 4. What does the verse on the front cover of this issue mean to you? 5. How can it be true that God will give believers whatever they ask for? ‍

Timo and Minna Hotari | The Voice of Zion January 2022 - Home and Family Article -- For this feature, Timo and Minna Hotari visited with Timo’s parents Mauri and Irmeli Hotari. All are members of the Toronto, Ont., congregation. As we slow the vehicle and turn into the familiar driveway, we reflect on the thoughts that had occupied the whole one-hour drive. Arriving together, we are eager to step out of the car and scurry up to the front door of Timo’s childhood home. It always feels good to come home, return to the safe haven of our parents, Irmeli and Mauri Hotari. The door opens and the joyous gaze and outstretched arms of parents with that comforting, familiar greeting of “God’s peace” quickly banish the worries of why this world can seem filled with confusion and evil. The simple greeting of “God’s peace” actually brings instant peace, we marvel. The warmth of the home, the smell of baking, the table set and the sound of coffee brewing tell us they waited for our company with welcoming hearts. As we settle down to coffee, we find our discussion drifting from everyday topics to our comforting family memories and the old paths. We ask, “Dad, Mom, what comes to mind when we consider “the old paths”? Dad picks up his glasses and opens his Bible. He begins to read from Jeremiah 6:16. “Thus, saith the lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.” He instructed us that it is important to travel on the pathway on which the previous saints traveled, because it leads to heaven’s home. It is comforting to know that the same pathway today remains unchanged and it yet leads to heaven. Mom looks up and adds, “Only the gospel keeps us on this narrow way.” We ask Dad and Mom many questions. Here are some of the thoughts they shared with us. How are things different now? When we were young, we had no phones or computers. Perhaps there was more time to visit and share fellowship, life felt much simpler and spare time was used more effectively. People seemed closer to nature and kids spent more time outdoors playing. The rapid advancements in technology have brought good and bad. The good is that online service broadcasts and God’s Word can be spread throughout the world. The bad is that the number of temptations seems drastically grown and more available. Society as a whole has changed; sin is prevalent, and everything appears to be acceptable. Are there things that haven’t changed? While it seems there isn’t anything in this world that has not changed, the life of believers on the old path hasn’t changed. We can still, under the protection of the law, hold services. We have the freedom to believe. How do you see young people’s lives now? As parents of a large family, we carry our children and their families in prayer every day. They face many trials and temptations on the front lines of God’s kingdom. Cell phones and social media seem to take up much of their day. Pressures from the world and its ways press down on them. But nevertheless, our hearts rejoice to see them sitting willingly at services and singing. What advice would you pass onto the young? Put sin away and keep faith. Remember us elders and share some of your spare time with us. What advice would you pass onto the newly married? Use the gospel. Trust in God’s guidance in all matters. Don’t allow a “his or her master spirit” into your homes but allow Jesus into your homes. What advice would you pass onto parents? Root your children in living faith and suffer to bring the little ones before Jesus. Be content with your portion in life; it will bring you joy. Discuss spiritual matters at home – not just temporal matters with your kids. Spend time with your children; it breeds comfort. Stay on the old paths; you will receive peace and rest. It is important to live our lives according to our faith, which the Holy Spirit reveals in the kingdom of God. As the evening draws to a close, we leave Mom and Dad with hearts full of peace and joy. What a blessing it is to have a believing home, we say. We pray that, with God’s help, our own children may feel the same. An Interview with Wilfred and Estelle Jennifer Waaraniemi | The Voice of Zion January 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Tara Simonson of the Outlook, Sask., congregation visited with her grandparents Wilfred and Estelle Haapala from the Dunblane, Sask., congregation. In this article, Tara’s sister Jennifer Waaraniemi from Monticello, Minn., shares parts of the conversation based on Tara’s notes. Tara visited our grandparents Wilfred and Estelle about the theme of this Voice of Zion issue, “The Old Paths.” Grandparents have a wealth of life experience, and we can learn a lot from them. They are a great blessing! Tara asks what comes to her grandparents’ minds when they consider the old paths. “The old path is the one we’ve always followed. There seem to be new paths that come up, but we want to stay on the same path,” they say. When asked how things are different now, Estelle comments that life used to have a slower pace. Travel wasn’t a big thing and everyone stayed closer to home. There weren’t so many services, and visiting others’ homes brought much happiness. “The world is so busy now!” Estelle exclaims. Worldly things seem closer and more accessible than they used to, which is a danger. But it is a blessing to have so many service events and camps to attend. One thing Wilfred and Estelle have noticed is that there is more emphasis on hearing the gospel daily than there used to be. “This is a good thing with the world being that much closer,” Estelle says. Tara wonders aloud whether there are things in life that haven’t changed. Both grandparents reply that the basics of faith have not changed. The closeness and love of the congregation have always been there. It seems that thoughts about COVID and restrictions have tried to divide us, but we all have the same goal. We should always try to stay childlike and believe. “Trust in God; He has promised to look after us,” Wilfred reminds. How nice it is, we realize, to hear advice from our elders. They can look back over years of experience. Here Wilfred and Estelle share thoughts on different stages of life. To a young person: Keep faith and a good conscience. Stay in the love of the congregation as everything we need is found here. To a newlywed couple: Remember to communicate and forgive one another. Nothing is perfect. Marriage needs continual care and work. To new parents: Enjoy your little ones! It can seem there aren’t enough hours in the day to do all you need to do, but as you get older you realize that some of those things aren’t so important. When kids are small, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and not know how you will manage. Now that we are older, we see what a huge blessing our kids and grandkids are. What you wish for: In life there is so much you can wish for, but we have more than we need. God has blessed each of us, and it’s good to be content. Nothing comes from our own hands, and that’s easier to see as we get older. We are so fortunate to be in God’s kingdom. As the world grows evil and restless, we don’t need to be scared. Let us follow the old paths. We have a secure foundation. Questions for Thought and Discussion In your own words, what is meant by “the old paths”? The adjective “old” suggests what about the paths? The phrase comes from Jeremiah 6:6, “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” Who is being spoken to? Who might say, “We will not walk therein”? To what extent is this instruction counterintuitive? To what extent is this instruction logical?

Keith and Karen Hillstrom | The Voice of Zion March 2022 - Home and Family Article -- When considering the topic of humility, we first paused over the meaning of this word. The first Sunday in Advent carries the theme, “Our King Comes in Humility.” This is when we hear how Christ entered Jerusalem on a lowly donkey, not on a grand horse as we would expect a king to enter. Christ, the Prince of Peace, is also a model of humility. Humility means humbleness; a modest view of one’s own importance. It does not mean low self-esteem, but rather that one would see their worth in the broad view of all of God’s creation. A person might humble themselves to acknowledge they are not always right. They are good listeners, admit they don’t know everything and are willing to learn from others. Humility allows us to acknowledge that God is the Giver of all gifts and He deserves all praise. Humility Is Recognizing God’s power In our life of faith, we find that humility connects to recognizing God’s great power over us. We submit to His will. We are small, unworthy, powerless beings. We believe God is our Creator and He directs and guides our lives. All our personalities are different. We all have trials in life, and arrogance may be a trial for some, while many people seem to be naturally humble. Still when we think about it, how can we ever know another person’s feelings? One might have the appearance of being proud or arrogant yet be truly down-to-earth. Another may act humble in speech and demeanor yet cannot see that he or she needs God’s grace and forgiveness. God knows our hearts. Karen’s Story I, Karen, have had lessons in humility through trials in life. Fifteen years ago, I learned I had a degenerative eye disease and was slowly losing my vision. While I am thankful I am still able to care for my family, there are many tasks I am now unable to do. Needing to ask for help humbles a person. This experience, however, has also made me more thankful. I’ve learned to appreciate the important things in life, and worry less about the small, unimportant, materialistic things. I’ve learned I must turn to God in prayer for strength and lean on those around me for help. Teaching Children It is important to teach our children humility. This lesson may be taught better by our actions rather than with words. Nevertheless, we worry whether we are setting a good example for our children. Admitting our mistakes, confessing our sins, and seeking forgiveness are valuable lessons in humility for our children. Often, that’s all we can do. We have also learned that having a large family can be humbling. Every child is different, and when we think we have all the parenting answers, we’re given a new and different challenge. With each child comes an increased awareness of how little we know as parents. Also, we as parents feel personal responsibility or even embarrassment if our child makes a poor decision. With a large family, it may be apparent to others that there isn’t money for a fancy house, new cars, or extravagant vacations. These facets of life can remind us along with our children what truly matters in this lifetime. Small, Humble and At Peace We feel God’s greatness amid nature. As we admire God’s creation and see how large this world is, we feel small and humble. Acknowledging that God is in control of our lives can make us feel at peace. As humans, we tend to worry about our future and the future of our children and grandchildren. Praying to God and placing our trust in Him takes this worry away. When we are able to trust that God will take care of us, it is easier to be humble and thankful. We have a good God and we are blessed to be part of His loving kingdom. Lessons in Humility Maaret Petaisto | The Voice of Zion May 2022 - Home and Family Article -- I feel that in many ways the world is at odds with humility. There has been a “Be bold, be brave, be confident” movement over half of my life. While it may be a useful lesson to be appropriately assertive especially when learning a new skill or when facing a challenge, we want to remember that loving our neighbor requires us to be at their level and approachable, not better or worse. As a teacher, I am ever conscious of how people are treated and how societal jargon may impact behaviors. As an individual, I want to maintain my friendships in a constructive and positive way. As a believer, I wish to endeavor in childlike faith, with humility. I recently moved and gained employment with a very large urban school district in Minnesota. In the initial educator training in August, most everyone introduced themselves with a statement about how they work with students and strive to help students of color succeed in school. When it came my turn to speak, I simply stated my truth: “I have only worked with students who are white like myself and with Latino students, so I don’t have much experience with every background, such as Black students and other people of color. However, by nature, I am down-to-earth. I want to respect and know more about other people.” I have learned in the months of working in Brooklyn Park that both the toughest and shyest kids need me to make eye contact, remember their names, and occasionally give hugs. I am least effective as a teacher when I approach a volatile situation with boldness and bossiness. I have found that humbleness and calm have an incredible ability to diffuse angry outbursts. As someone who has social anxiety, I approach most initial interactions with humility, bordering on a feeling of inefficacy. My current treatment has allowed me to accept who I am, and I spend less time overthinking my social interactions. God has granted me parents, siblings, and close friends who support my anxious nature. I have learned that every single person I have met has their own trials. It takes a lot of courage to speak up about mental health and speaking about it puts me in a place of humility. My personal growth has started with being comfortable with my own vulnerability. As I share my mental health situation, I hope that my own openness might help other believers to accept others for who they are. I pray that those struggling with anxiety and depression find peace. It is not meant that we carry our burdens alone. Maybe my trials draw me closer to God; they certainly provide a lesson in humility. A minister recently preached in a sermon about wanting to be humble because when we are meek we need our Savior the most. He explained further that proud people may not feel that they need to be helped. It is through God’s grace that we can remain believing. James 4:6 says, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” The Bible tells about many believers, like Job, who experienced insurmountable losses and trials. Maybe trials kept those believers of long ago on the pathway to heaven. When Jesus was on earth, He healed the sick and weary. Jesus told us that the greatest in the kingdom of God is a little child. Hymn 301 in Songs and Hymns of Zion scribes: “O dear Redeemer, King of Grace, You lead the weak to heaven. The gospel keeps them on Your Way; their sins are all forgiven. With patience and humility Your mercy guides with charity, persuading them with kindness.” The message of the world is to be loud and proud of who you are. The message in God’s Kingdom is to remain as a grace beggar. Don’t be ashamed to be humble and kind, and don’t be ashamed of the gospel. Discussion Questions Share a life experience that has taught you about humility. The balance between self-esteem and humility seems elusive. How can we manage this on a personal level? How does this balance parallel the paradox of being entirely sinful yet righteous simultaneously? There is a saying, “Humility: as soon as you think you got it, you lost it.” How does this reflect a believer’s life?

Randy Haapala | The Voice of Zion May 2022 - Home and Family Article -- When I consider the topic of respect, many thoughts come to my mind, especially in this present time. Respect is an especially important trait that we should have for one another and which we should teach our children. Exodus 2:25 tells us about God having respect upon the children of Israel. “God looked upon the children of Israel, and God had respect unto them.” In like manner, we as children of God desire to have respect, one to another. In the times we are living, it seems respect for others has become diminished, particularly when we note how language is used on the internet. Respect, one to another, includes love for one another and love is shown in how we speak to and about others. God’s Word teaches much about love for one another; in fact, God’s Word reminds us that love is the first fruit of the spirit when one is believing: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith” (Gal. 5:22). If we look at these fruits of the Spirit, we could say they all go along with this topic of respect. Today’s society is self-centered and often there is little accountability for what we say and do. This too can become an obstacle for us, burdening our conscience. It is easy to use words that break love, whether it be visiting with someone in person or through posting on social media. The songwriter teaches, “Our tongue is one, it is quite small, yet what it does surpasses all: A little word can be so great and cause such pain, unrest, and hate” (SHZ 463). So, whether we verbalize hurtful words or type them, they are both just as damaging to the one hearing or reading them. Paul to Galatians admonishes, “if we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (5:25). This is God’s Spirit we own in our hearts and God is Love. We want to remember Jesus’ words, “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” A question we need to ask ourselves and keep in the forefront of our minds is this: Is my opinion always correct and are other opinions always wrong? Or is my opinion so important that it’s worth breaking the love over it? It is important that we have a heart and mind to listen and to be considerate of what others are saying. Even if one’s opinion does not necessarily agree with what another opinion is, it does not mean that it is wrong because we do not agree with what they are saying. We do not want to become that kind of person that is so close-minded that we do not want to hear or acknowledge that there could be another perspective on a situation at hand. Luther in the Small Catechism reminds us to “think and speak well of him and put the best construction on all he does.” When reminded and rebuked for what we have said or written that has not shown respect, may we have the heart to hear the rebuke and correct our way. We as parents, elders, grandparents, brothers, or sisters need to pause around this topic of respect. Questions to ask ourselves are such: Am I instructing my children at home to respect one another? Am I teaching respect for authority in my home? Am I teaching respect for government leaders in my home? Have I been a good example on social media showing respect for leaders in our lands? These are all important questions, especially when we see a lack of respect today. God’s Word reminds us: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. There is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God” (Rom. 13:1). May we always remember this and strive to teach this kind of respect for each other and for our leaders to our children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. This is God’s will for us even today – that we have respect and love for our fellow humans. We all battle our own corruption in this area. In these times, God has taught me especially that what my carnal mind may think and desire does not matter one iota but He has reminded me through His precious Word to, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). We are such fortunate people when we can own faith in our hearts, and we can put our full trust in God. He is almighty! He is omnipotent! He is in total control! We have no need to worry! May He give us hearts and minds to obey His Word and to teach respect and love which is according to His Word. Jesus says, “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15). Multicultural Experiences Teach Respect for Others Simon and Colleen Tauriainen | The Voice of Zion May 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Navigating multicultural life experiences and relationships can be challenging and confusing – but so rewarding. Since we became a couple, we have come to appreciate the many ways in which our lives have been impacted by the three nationalities that exist within our marriage. Some effects have been positive, some challenging. We met in Finland, arriving at Reisjärvi Opisto from what seemed like similar North American cultures – Ontario and Minnesota. As our relationship deepened through many discussions, we realized that we had differences in background despite having lived within a day’s travel of each other. Our faith was the same, yet our congregation lives varied and our family dynamics were curiously different. Even the way that we experienced Finland’s traditions, culture, and lifestyle differed, Simon having been born and raised in Finland for seven years, and Colleen having only visited Finland once. Being submersed in another culture changed both of us. For Colleen, it was many little things, like learning how to open Finnish doors and windows, tasting mämmi and porokeitto, and deciphering language and Finnish political opinions, all things that instilled a newfound curiosity, openness, and sensitivity. For Simon, it was more of a rediscovering of his roots and a sense of patriotism for the country of his birth. That said, we both retained our North American foundations, realizing that fact while in discussion with Finns on varied subjects, from style, food choices, sports and much more. Sometimes we felt like complete foreigners, and at other times, not so different at all. We learned quickly that it doesn’t matter how different the opinions or ways of living life – there is no one country that is better, the reason being that different systems and customs are in place to serve the people who live there. We all respected differences in order to live together peaceably at opisto. Indeed, we are allowed to be different. Our countries follow God’s good plans, not our own reason or agenda. Living in Finland, separate from family and North American daily life, promoted personal growth and respect for others’ traditions and contrasting ways of life. Opisto even gave us the opportunity to get to know each other so well that we married the next fall, ultimately beginning our life as newlyweds in White Rock, British Columbia, where Simon was able to secure a job. Living away from congregation life and friends and family is lonely and isolating, yet we also see just how much we value the homes we have around the world, different as they are. We love them, no matter their imperfections, because each country holds memories for us. God has given us the blessing of a believing spouse, which has carried us. Having learned to cope with differences of background and opinion, we are each other’s closest supporter in faith – listening and learning from each other and forgiving often. Communication and forgiveness are intensely crucial in all relationships, at home and far away. When those two things are our continually maintained foundation, respect and love blossom, and many blessings overshadow the trials and hardships. Letter to a Friend Eric Mattila | The Voice of Zion May 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Dear friend in faith, We conversed recently about respect for our neighbors and those in positions of leadership. I wish to continue our conversation with a few thoughts. We certainly live during a time when the concerns of the world come close. The heated debates and mockery of government officials and those with a different opinion than our own have taken their toll. It is close to us to get caught up in the blowing doctrines and opinions of the world. The first fruit – love – is easily broken and cast aside in order to defend our position. Is this right for a believer, we could ask? James especially addresses this matter when he writes, “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell…But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?” (3:5–11) Of course, we agree that we live in a country where we as individuals and as a society in general have been given ways to address things we feel are wrong. We have the right to vote for those who we think best, we can certainly write and visit with our representatives, and we can run for office or school boards or other governing bodies. In a democracy these are rights; let us remember to use our rights responsibly, in a way that doesn’t offend our conscience or other believers. It is important that we also pray about these matters of governance. As believers we understand that we are members of two kingdoms, or as Luther called it, two realms. One is spiritual and one is earthly. We believe as did Luther that both are ordained, maintained and under God’s control. Luther stated, “God is the righteous judge of Nations. World powers are in his hand. He permits powers that oppose him to grow to a predetermined boundary. Then God allows judgment. God does not look at matters through his fingers. Justice is confirmed as he rules the world.” In addition, we can consider the wisdom from the 21st chapter of Proverbs: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.” Because we understand and believe that God rules all things, we children of God can be at peace and respectful even when we have different points of view on policy. In the book By Faith, we find this passage: “Maintenance of the order of law has been entrusted by God to the State. All of what the State needs to maintain order of law and life which builds the fatherland is included in the word, government. Thus, government consists of earthly and spiritual administrations with many different names, beginning with the leader of the country. The Word of God instructs us to honor order, justice and the inviolability of every person as well as to resist disorder and violence. The citizen has responsibilities which he has to fulfill. One must be subject to the government and pray, appeal and praise on its behalf.” Luther teaches in the same way: “However great the treasure is which we possess in Christ and however truly we are masters even of the devil, it is nonetheless God’s will that we humble ourselves before those who are something in this world, namely, government authorities and officials, even though we were as holy as Jacob. God certainly wants government, princes, and lords to exist, no matter who they are and how they are. And we are not to ask whether they have and occupy the rulership and government justly or unjustly. One must only consider power and government as such; these are good, for they are ordained and established by God. You dare not berate government when you are oppressed at times by princes and tyrants and because they misuse the power which they have of God. They will certainly have to give an account of their actions. The misuse of a thing that is in itself good does not make it bad. A golden necklace is good and does not become worse because some harlot is wearing it about her neck. Or should I blame the necklace if someone were to ruin one of my eyes with it? Certainly not. So we must also bear the power of the prince. If he misuses his power, I should for this reason not bear him ill will or avenge the misuse on him or actually punish it. One must obey him for God’s sake, for he stands in the place of God. No matter how intolerably they may tax, they are to be obeyed, and everything is to be borne for God’s sake. Whether they are doing right or wrong will no doubt appear in due time. Therefore if the government takes your possessions, your life and limb, and whatever you have, say: I gladly give it to you. I recognize you as my masters. I shall gladly obey you. See whether you are using well or ill the power which God has given you. Even if the government does injustice, as did the king in Babylon to the children of Israel. God nevertheless would have it obeyed without treachery.” In Apostle Peter’s second epistle he warns us about false prophets and their teachings. One of the things he warns us about is this: “But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities” (2:10). Luther has also written in his Small Catechism under the heading “Of Civil Government”: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation” (Rom. 13:1,2). Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek.” Sometimes this thought of meekness gets confused for weakness. It is not so. We are not meek because we live in fear or don’t understand the situation. We are meek because that is how Jesus instructed us to be by His teaching and examples. We in no way are weak if any man including those in high places would try to compel us to do sin, something contrary to God’s Word. We in that case obey God rather than man. We can firmly trust that if ever we face that situation, God will give us strength to stand firm. Regardless of the time period, the understanding of the believers has remained consistent. It is for this reason: it is founded on God’s Word and the teaching of the Holy Spirit. So, I leave you with this thought, to avoid the extremes and endeavor to remain in the center of the flock. “Hold that fast which thy hast, that no man take thy crown.” God’s peace, your friend Eric Mattila Questions for Discussion: Define respect in your own words. Then check the dictionary definition. What would you add to your initial definition? Explain how respect is tied to humility. How do we show respect for others at school? At work? At services? How can we model respect for authorities before our children? What will this look and sound like? How do we show respect for God and for God’s Word at services? What experiences in your life have helped you learn the value of respecting others? When have you felt respected? What can others learn about me based on how I speak of others?

David Edwards | Shepherd's Voice April/May 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Let’s speak with words that kindle joy, that strengthen love, and edify, and through the gospel Word, increase the ties of unity and peace. (SHZ 463:6) In this song, we are reminded to use the kinds of words that show respect. Respect means to regard something highly. Being respectful is showing honor. The Bible teaches, “Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise” (Eph. 6:2). By honoring parents, God promises a whole life with blessings in return. Respecting is honoring. Showing respect is how we act. We can show respect by using polite words in every situation, sharing, waiting for a turn, and saying please and thank you. We can show respect by trying to be polite, kind and thoughtful of others’ feelings. When we make mistakes, we apologize to show respect. We show respect to God when we obey those whom God has placed to guide us in life – our parents, our teachers, our leaders at work and in the government. We do our best for them as if we are doing it for God Himself. The golden rule is: “Do to others as you would want them to do to you.” If we are kind to someone, we hope they will be kind in return. If we show respect, they might also respect us. Whether or not they treat us with respect, we still want to follow the golden rule which is from God’s Word (Matt. 7:12). Because we respect God and our parents and ourselves whom God has made, we want to keep faith and a clean conscience. Therefore, when we have been disrespectful or unkind, we want to put the sin away by asking for forgiveness. Things to Visit About: How do we show respect to others? How do we show our respect to God? Tell an example of when you have used the Golden Rule in your life. Look up the Fourth Commandment in your catechism. Why is this Commandment important?

Joe and Deanna Ojalehto | The Voice of Zion June/July 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Believers are unified by the Holy Spirit, the third person of God: Creator, Redeemer, Sanctifier. When realized, this unity makes temporal differences seem insignificant. However, it cannot ignore spiritual differences. This is where it is so important for believers to have the freedom to lovingly discuss and rebuke when needed to preserve this unity. It is important to note that this unity is not simply a social network of like-minded individuals who may, at times, negotiate a common understanding. The Holy Spirit unites us with God and His Word. John 14:26 says, “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things.” If a group of individuals would come to an agreement through discussion on a matter which is contrary to what God’s Word teaches, this understanding would not be of the Spirit; the Holy Spirit answers to the Word of God. We know that the enemy of souls does not like the unity which exists between believers and is always trying to deceive and create division and doubts. God’s Word reminds us in Ephesians 4:2,3 “With all lowliness and meekness, with long suffering forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace.” We want to encourage each other with patience and love, praying that God, through His Spirit, would reveal matters in His time. The Holy Spirit speaks to us individually and in the congregation, and we pray that we would hear when it speaks and be obedient. As God’s children, we gather around the Word of God often with that prayer in our hearts that God would feed us with His Word. We find that of our own, we are weak and poor, and need God’s grace often as we endeavor to believe. When we visit with fellow believers, we find how the Holy Spirit unites us and we feel the bond of faith. We also find that when the spirit is not the same, there is not the bond of faith, but difference. Then spiritual unity is missing. We pray that we would remain attached to the true living vine, the Lord Jesus, where the blood of Christ flows freely from member to member. “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself except it abide in the vine; no more can ye except ye abide in me” (John 15:4). When we travel in this way, the Holy Spirit speaks to us, we feel the peace of God, we see the beauty of His kingdom and feel the unity of the Spirit. Unity in Our Midst Stan and Lori Ylioja | The Voice of Zion June/July 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Throughout our years, we have experienced unity in God’s kingdom. Unity is the state of being united or joined as a whole and being in harmony with one another. Unity is having the same understanding and love between God’s children because we believe the same way. It is that deep inner conviction that comes from the Holy Spirit within us that answers amen when our spirit agrees with what we have heard regarding matters of faith. The Holy Spirit, God in the third person, lives and dwells in the believers on earth and reveals His will to us through the congregation (John 14:26). This joins the believers in one understanding. This unity is not from the consensus of our temporal minds but is rather the clear revelation that is given by and through the Holy Spirit. When God’s children speak and share with one another in the congregation on how they understand matters and our spirit answers to it, then unity of faith and understanding is preserved. If our spirit does not answer it is important that we speak and share how we feel so that the Holy Spirit can guide us. In this way, God cares for us and preserves unity among us. We can be comforted that the Holy Spirit will direct us in all things. Let us remain as humble children of God so that we can be taken care of (1 Pet. 5:5) and be preserved in faith. We experience the unity in God’s kingdom when attending services and other gatherings. In 2013, we had the opportunity to travel to Finland and meet believers. We greeted them with God’s Peace and in just a few moments, though we had never met before, we could feel that oneness of spirit and were able to talk like dear friends. This type of unity is not experienced on the outside of God’s kingdom since it comes from mutual living faith. We had the same experience at the summer services in Finland when sitting in the big tent with many believers around us who spoke a different language. We could feel the oneness and the unity of the Holy Spirit. During pandemic restrictions we were not able to meet as a whole congregation. After the initial shutdown, we were able to gather in smaller groups as mandates allowed, with no refreshments afterwards. Although some were together, we felt lonely for the whole congregation and to be able to visit and enjoy the unity of all our brothers and sisters in faith. When the restrictions were lifted, it felt good to finally gather again and feel the oneness and unity of faith. Especially in times of trial, we doubt and feel our unworthiness. When we experience the unity of spirit it gives us the warm assurance that we are part of the precious flock of God’s children and are traveling together to heaven. It unifies us to contribute willingly to the work and instills in us the desire to support the work an any way we can. When there is strife in the congregation it can diminish our desire to do or contribute to the work. The kingdom of God is a unified kingdom of different gifts, but the same spirit (1 Cor. 12:4–6). God distributes gifts to His children as He sees best and then uses those gifts for the work in His kingdom. God has created each one of us as unique individuals with our own way of doing things. We can embrace this uniqueness and not let temporal differences break love and unity among us. Our focus is to preserve faith and a clean conscience which in turn preserves unity among us. May we remember to thank our heavenly Father for this gift of unity that we have and pray that it would continue in our midst. Discussion Questions: The Spirit unifies, yet believers are all so different. Explain. How is unity preserved in a congregation? If we personally do not feel unity with the congregation, what might that indicate? How can we explain what unity is without using the word unity? How can we teach our children and one another about unity? Tell about a time when you have especially experienced the joy of unity between believers.

Jared Muhonen | The Voice of Zion August 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Articles in this issue of The Voice of Zion note how in the Bible, the word “conversation” is used to mean how we conduct ourselves. This article focuses on the more modern use of the word. Conversations, visits and discussions among believers are an important way to learn about our mutual faith and to encourage each other on our way to heaven. A conversation occurs when two or more people visit to exchange news or ideas or thoughts of the heart. The topics can be endless, just as news and ideas are continuously evolving. Usually, conversations gravitate towards common interests of those participating. The weather, for example, is something that everyone experiences and therefore is a popular topic of conversation, at least in the Upper Midwest where I live. One friend recently pointed out that we must be transitioning into middle age. Our conversations have now more frequently included topics such as what grill/smoker combo is a good buy, the plusses and minuses of a gas-powered versus electric chain saw, how the maple syrup boiling is going, plans for the garden and so on. Through the years, we come to know others within comfortable relationships where conversation topics revolve around common interests. Why then is it sometimes difficult to discuss matters that are most central to our lives, matters of living faith? Is it because we feel that others will think that we are trying in some way to enhance our position in God’s kingdom, that we want to promote our own understanding? Maybe we feel that with our own failures, we are not qualified to discuss faith matters. Perhaps we fear that we will understand things differently than those friends we are discussing with and this would bring conflict to a treasured relationship. The enemy of souls surely has numerous reasons ready for us as to why we should keep our mouths closed. Although spiritual turmoil in our midst is a difficult topic to bring up, it seems that this has caused us to have more frequent conversations about faith in recent years. These discussions have overall been a great blessing to my life. When the unity of Spirit makes itself evident, joyful feelings follow. Several years ago, during a time of spiritual unrest, I received a phone call from my friend. His first question was, “How do you believe?” This was a friend I was close to, particularly through my teenage years. Yet seldom, if ever, had we discussed matters of faith. At the time of this phone call, the battle in God’s kingdom was in the open in Minnesota. Congregational discussions often included comments that brought uneasiness and distress. Some families and longtime friendships began to fracture. We sometimes wondered who our believing escorts were. I thank God that He gave this friend the strength to call me and ask me that question at that time. Our conversation and the ensuing confirmation that my dear childhood friend and I still believed the same made my heart rejoice. This discussion gave me a sense of permission and strength to then discuss with other friends how they believe. These conversations fostered deep and close friendships. I am reminded of the verse in Ecclesiastes, where it is written (4:12) “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” When the Holy Spirit through the name and blood of Christ binds two believers together, the bond isn’t easily broken. Discussion Questions Why might it be hard to bring up matters of faith at a gathering of believers outside of services? What obstacles have you felt to discussing faith? How can we begin a discussion of faith? What are some starter sentences? How should a believer talk about those who are different than us, whether in looks, religious beliefs or lifestyle? Things we joke about reveal our attitudes and beliefs. What do the jokes you tell say about you? The editorial points out that we should not just talk lovingly, but also act and share our resources as we can. What might this look like in your family’s life?

Krista Simonson | The Shepherd's Voice August/September 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Dear Creator, Lord of grace, well You know my life and ways; I was shielded in Your keeping while within my mother sleeping. There You sealed me, God above, with your vow of perfect love. In the womb, where none could see, there Your grace was guarding me. There did bounteous love enfold me though none yet could touch or hold me; You knew when my life began why I am the way I am. You beheld, before my birth, all my moments here on earth. In Your book, my Maker, caring, there You wrote them all, unerring. Deep into my heart You see and you always care for me. (SHZ 227) Did you know that even before you were born, God knew everything about you? God has wonderfully made you according to His perfect plan. Think for a moment about something you enjoy, something you are good at. Maybe you like to bake or to draw. Do you love to sing or play an instrument? Do you enjoy hiking or reading or making crafts? Maybe you have a special way of cheering others up when they are sad. God has given you your very own special ways and gifts. God has made you special and you are special to God. Have you ever heard the words: “I love you to the moon and back”? God loves you even more! His love is too great to measure. When our sins are forgiven we are held and carried in this love of God. To be a child of God is the best gift we can own. Things to visit about: God made each of us different. In what ways are you different from your siblings? What is a special skill or interest that you have? Because we have different strengths, we can help each other. How can you help your siblings or your parents? How can your siblings help you? What is the most important way to help each other?