Kathy Waaraniemi | The Voice of Zion September 2023 - What Does the Bible Say Article -- Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. – 3 John 1:11 Do I follow that which is good and not that which is evil? This passage causes me to pause. It seems that I can readily relate to what Paul writes to the Romans: “For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do” (Rom. 7:19). What is this third letter of John teaching us? The writer of the letter, the elder mentioned at the beginning of the text, is the Apostle John. He is writing to a specific individual named Gaius who seems to be a worker in the congregation in Asia Minor. John greets Gaius and testifies that he and Gaius travel in the same understanding of faith. John expresses joy that he has received testimony of Gaius’ faith from the other brothers who have visited the congregation: “For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee…I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 John 1:1–4). Even today it brings great joy when we hear that a dear friend is still endeavoring in faith! When we visit one another, it doesn’t take long to know that this brother or sister believes the same way that I do. “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Rom. 8:16). John writes that it has brought him great joy that Gaius shows love and hospitality to the brothers who have traveled to his congregation spreading the gospel of Christ. He says, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. John expresses how the brothers felt Gaius’ love and hospitality towards them and felt how he lovingly sent them on to the next place of mission work. John exhorts the believers to show hospitality and to support the brothers, and in this way they also do the work of God in spreading the gospel (3 John 1:5–8). There also appeared to be one who was not in unity. As John writes, Deiotrefes seemed to have “preeminence among them” (v. 9), or great self-importance. Deiotrefes did not want to welcome the brothers who visited the congregation, and rather than showing them hospitality and love, he gossiped and spoke maliciously about them. He also tried to prevent other congregation members from showing them hospitality. John writes to Gaius that when he comes to visit the congregation he will call attention to what Deiotrefes is doing (v. 9,10). This is familiar to the child of God and to the living congregation of God today. As believers we want to care for another when we see a brother or sister going astray or growing in themselves. We also want to care for those who serve the congregation. This kind of care is a service of love done in the hope of restoring the fallen one into the fellowship and love of the congregation. John, at this point in the letter, instructs Gaius and others with the words of our text: “Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God” (v. 11). When we consider John’s words to Gaius and his warning about what Deiotrefes was doing, what can we consider about this text for us in our day? We can ponder: Do I carry the work of God’s kingdom with love and in prayer? Do I speak maliciously about the work, about board members or servants of the Word? Do I speak well of my neighbor and put the best construction on all he or she does? Do I gossip about the difficulties of others? Do I serve others with Christian hospitality and love? Do I keep the mind of Christ in all my interactions? While our flesh would more readily follow that which is evil, John instructs us to follow that which is good. Goodness follows faith and is a fruit of the Spirit. Paul writes to Timothy, “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12). At the end of the letter John names another brother, Demetrius, who walks in the truth. John gives a good testimony of his faith. John writes that he hopes to visit the congregation soon and that he has many other things to write about but he will wait until they can visit in person (3 John 1:13,14). He concludes the letter wishing Gaius the peace of God. He sends Gaius personal greetings from the brothers he is with and wishes Gaius to personally greet friends that he is with by name. Even today we send greetings of love and peace to one another in congregations around the country and around the world. It is heartwarming to receive greetings by name from friends in faith. God’s children want to remember and serve one another with love. Yet, we often find that the good we would desire to do, that we don’t do, and the evil we don’t want to do, that we do. How good it is that even these errors and offenses can be cared for freely with the gospel! Reference: Soronen, Mauno (2017). Johanneksen kirjeet. In Se sana seisoo vahvana – Raamatun historiaa ja sanomaa, Ed. Olli Lohi. SRK.

Elizabeth Juntunen and Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion September 2023 1. What are dues? Dues are the money you give to an organization that you are a member of. In our organizations, there are congregation dues and LLC dues. Congregation dues are paid by individual members to their congregation. The recommended congregation dues are typically set at a congregation’s annual meeting. LLC dues are paid to LLC by the congregations, as only congregations are members of LLC. LLC dues are set at the LLC’s Annual Meeting and approved by the congregation delegates. In addition to LLC dues, there are the camp support dues for Hasscib Lake, Kamp Kipa, and Stony Lake camp facilities. The camp support area dues help fund the camp facility expenses. Additionally, there are some individuals that live remotely and send donations to LLC on a monthly basis. The financial support from the congregations and these individuals is much appreciated. 2. What portion of the LLC budget is funded by dues? LLC dues support 50% of the annual budget. Camp support dues support 10% of the annual budget. Total LLC and camp support dues pay for 60% of the annual budget The remaining 40% of our budget is provided through donations, camp fees and publication sales revenue. 3. How does a person start paying dues? Each congregation has their own approach to how individuals begin paying dues and becoming a member. If an individual is not a dues-paying member and wishes to be, the best place to start is to contact a congregation board members. 4. What is the benefit of someone becoming a member and paying dues instead of someone donating the same amount of money? When an individual becomes a member and pays dues, they are making a commitment to the congregation that they will support the congregation financially as well as voluntarily. The commitment to pay assists the board treasurer and other board members to prepare and manage their annual budget as well as to work on short and long-term financial planning. 5. How much are dues? How is this amount decided? At the 2023 LLC Annual Meeting, the member congregation delegates approved $38/member/month dues amount. The congregations report their membership numbers to the LLC Annual Meeting, and then they pay LLC the monthly obligation according to their reported membership. In addition to the LLC dues, the congregations in camp support areas provide dues as follows: Hasscib Lake: $15/member/month Kamp Kipa: $15/member/month Stony Lake: $20/member/month Camp support dues for Stony Lake also cover an SLC expansion loan and the Silver Springs land purchase loan. 6. How is the money used? Personnel/Travel 60% (which includes all personnel for office staff, camp staff/workers, and foreign and domestic workers) Publications 6% Services/Mission Work/Opisto 14% Office Expense 8% Camps 12% (less Personnel/Travel)

The Voice of Zion September 2023 - Editorial -- In our everchanging world, everything has its time. Generations pass, and new children are born. Each child is born at the precise time God has intended. It is no accident that those who are children now are meant to live as children in this very moment. It is as God intended. God has given each of us the gift of life, a span of years in which to live on this earth. God knows what kind of time we are born into. He means for us to be here now, to do our work and His work and to live through the phases of our lives. In the span of a person’s life, each phase has its place – everything happens in its own time (Eccl. 3:1). We each are given roles and tasks and the gifts with which to fulfill them. Our Lord, in whose kingdom we dwell, leads us and shows us our place and our duties. His kingdom is our refuge in this world at all stages of our lives. Throughout all our experiences, the light of God’s Word shines. The light of His Spirit shines even from within us. Children, too, shine this light as they go about daily life, at school and at play. Being a light unto the world means living in a way that reflects the teachings and example of Jesus, spreading goodness and love and compassion through one’s actions and attitudes. It means having a positive influence in one’s surroundings, perhaps showing others God’s truth and where God’s kingdom is. At school, children and young ones can model kindness among their peers: helping others, including others and supporting those with challenges are all ways to practice kindness. Respecting others is also important. Schoolchildren show respect to schoolteachers and staff and also toward peers. We want to follow rules as well and show respect to authority. We can show respect toward the class and its activities by participating fully, setting a good example and being a good sport. In all our conduct at school, we want to do what’s right and good. Goodness is a fruit of the Spirit that dwells in the heart of a believer. A believing schoolchild exhibits this goodness in speech and actions and thoughts. It is good and right to be honest and fair. We strive to be forgiving toward those who do not treat us with love. In our school day, we may encounter those children and adults who live in ways that are contrary to what God’s Word teaches. God has given us the duty of treating all people, including the ones we encounter at school, with compassion and gentleness. These qualities are part of the light that shines from within us. In the light of God’s Spirit, God can reveal His truth and His Word to any human. With eyes of faith, we view the world we live in. This is our time, our world. Around us, we see beauty and we can also see suffering, the suffering that is caused by sin and turning away from God’s Word. The light of God’s Spirit, our words and our actions proclaim the word of peace: there is yet time to find grace and the key to eternal life. Jesus still saves. Dear schoolchild, wherever you are, the light of your faith shows. You don’t have to do anything special for this to happen. When you are a believer and conduct yourself as a believer, others notice. They notice the fruits of the Spirit, which include gentleness and goodness. On some occasions, we can explain to others how we believe. Being a believer doesn’t place you above your schoolmates. You don’t have to feel that you need to be anything other than what you are. When a person tries extra hard to be or do something to set themselves apart, that is called self-righteousness. Instead, the light shines from you even through your own faults and imperfections. God allows this to happen. This serves a double purpose: it helps protect against falling into sin, and also it calls the world by example. As a believer, you may feel separate from the world in some ways. Perhaps there are school activities you cannot participate in because they might damage your conscience. It is okay if you feel separate in some way. This can help remind you that you are a believer and it might remind you of why you want to remain a believer. You can see a blessing even in this. May God bless your school year!

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion September 2023 - News and Notes -- Fall is now around the corner. I am reflecting on the busy summer of camps and the teaching that God has allowed. May God bless the instruction received during this important time in a young one’s faith life. Father dear, to You we pray as our children leave today and return to school and study. You have given them this duty; be with them and bless them! Father dear, You hear our prayers, You know all our hopes and cares, all our dreams and expectations, all our fears and tribulations. Father, help our children! (SHZ 447:1,2) Updates on LLC Activities Facilities Last winter Kamp Kipa sustained damage from snow that accumulated over the winter. The most expensive damage was to the condensing units for the freezer and coolers. Due to delays in repairs, kitchen staff have worked through an exceedingly difficult camp season. The freezer and cooler should be in service by September 1. Education Third grade Sunday school teaching material was distributed to congregations in August. The curriculum was updated to include the Illustrated Home Bible as a resource and the objectives were consolidated into an explanatory paragraph of the lesson topic. Practical activities and ideas for teachers to use in their lessons were also developed. The committee worked on this project with an overarching premise of escort building. A video that accompanies the third grade teaching materials can also be used as a guide for local congregations to hold local teachers’ workshops. Mission Department LLC Ministers 2023 Webinar 3 was held August 24. Servants of the Word discussed Communion-related issues at this session. LLC Ministers 2023 Webinar 4 will be held at the LLC office on the morning of October 21. SRK Mission Speaker Matti Kontkanen will keep two sessions on pastoral counseling. Ministers and Wives Camp will be held at Stony Lake Camp September 22–24. The theme for the camp is from Psalm 103: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” The biennial meeting of the LLC Area Mission Committees will be held October 10. At this fall meeting we will discuss area budgeting relating to scheduled events. SLC Bible Course will be held October 6–8. The course will cover Passion Week through Pentecost. Bible Courses allow for a more in-depth study of selected topics. Ministers and Bible Class teachers and those who are interested in Bible study are especially encouraged to enroll. Please sign up if you would like to attend. The 2024 events have been added to the LLC Service and Events Calendar. Rotation and special congregation services, mission trips and camps are some of the events that are found on this calendar. An interesting note – the calendar contains nearly 350 entries for the 2024 calendar year. God has blessed with many opportunities to be in the hearing of His Word and in the fellowship of brothers and sisters in faith. Communication Department The LLC Music Committee met in August for its annual in-person meeting. There was much discussion on selecting appropriate music for church and family functions. The discussion touched on questions of what music believers listen to and what the mission and purpose of music is in the life of a believer. The committee discussed the question of what church music is appropriate for believers. God blessed the discussion. These discussions will continue with the hopes that these questions would be discussed on the local level as well. In August, 15 students from North America traveled to Finland to begin their opisto year. We wish them and all opisto students and staff a blessed opisto year! Opisto Scholarship recipients for the 2024–25 opisto year were selected at the end of August. The list of recipients will be published as soon as all recipients have confirmed their acceptance of the scholarship offered. Material and slides from the 50-year history exhibit will soon be available to view on the LLC website. Watch for more information soon. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your knowledge of LLC history. Our second annual Content Creators Workshop will be held at Stony Lake Camp September 15–17. We welcome all who create content or who are interested in creating content for LLC print and digital publications. At the workshop, writers and visual artists will have lessons and work sessions along with opportunities to brainstorm and workshop creations with others. It’s time to submit your Christmas greetings to be published in the December Voice of Zion. See our website for more information.

Jean Simonson | The Shepherd’s Voice August/September 2023 - Home and Family Article -- Gentleness is the quality of being kind, tender or mild-mannered. It can also be softness or lightness in action. What comes to mind when you think of gentleness? In our homes we may experience gentleness in many ways. I often marvel at the gentleness that comes into a home with a precious new baby. Last year we were blessed with a baby girl after four boys. With so much energy and the nature of boys, I am amazed again and again at the gentleness they show to their baby sister. In nature there are many examples of gentleness through the seasons. In summer we feel the gentle warm breeze blowing through our hair. Colorful leaves fall from trees in autumn, and snowflakes gently fall from the sky in the winter months. In spring many animals give birth to their young. Even there we can see gentleness toward smaller ones. Gentleness brings peace. In the Bible it says, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Prov. 15:1). We often want to respond to tense situations with harsh words and actions. Yet, the Bible instructs us to be gentle to others. A gentle heart comes from having love for others. When love is broken, we can ask for forgiveness and hear that our sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood. In this way, Jesus, our gentle Shepherd, continues to care for us. Things to visit about: How do we show gentleness to people of all ages? What does it make us feel like when others treat us with gentleness? What helps us remember to be gentle and kind?

Allen Pirness | The Voice of Zion August 2023 - Bilingual -- The 11th chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews begins with an explanation of what faith is. Faith is described as a substance or confidence in something hoped for in the future and as evidence or assurance of something that remains yet unseen. We most often think about physical things, so trying to understand the reality of faith can be difficult. It’s more important to understand what faith does, rather than what it is. The picture of faith being a staff or a shield is apt when we consider their attributes as they relate to faith. For example, faith must be leaned on for the journey of life (Mark 6:8), or faith is our defense tool against the attacks of the enemy (Eph, 6:16). Regardless of our ability to conceptualize it, faith is very real and powerful. Faith is not the opposite of knowledge; saving faith is nonetheless not born based on what a person knows. Faith comes solely as a gift from God. Faith is also not the opposite of reason. Reason cannot bring faith, but faith can give reason direction and meaning. Faith can open or deepen understanding when we find ourselves before seemingly incomprehensible mysteries. Faith guides understanding and reason and puts what we know and learn into perspective. A young person needs to have hope that what they are doing now in life will have a payoff in the future, especially when it feels like the goal is so far away. Without an expectation of a future reward, it becomes impossible to stay the course. The goal of a child of God is to make it to heaven. We are only heaven-acceptable through faith. Faith guides our footsteps on our journey. Therefore, the life of a child of God is a journey of faith. Living faith is a faith that is alive in the heart of a person who possesses the Holy Spirit as their guide in life. It is a gift from God. We cannot do anything of our own to preserve faith. God reveals to us that only sin can separate us from Him. Our endeavor in faith is God’s work in us. As long as we have faith given by God, it affects in us the desire to fight against sin and maintain a good conscience. When we hear and believe the gospel of forgiveness of sins, God grants us His peace. One day faith will no longer be necessary. What we have not fully understood in time, we will see in eternity. God’s Word promises the faithful an eternity of only peace and joy. Usko Allen Pirness Heprealaiskirjeen 11. luku alkaa selityksellä siitä, mitä usko on. Uskoa kuvataan toivotun asian ilmenemisenä tai luottamuksena sellaiseen, jota toivotaan tulevaisuudessa. Uskoa kuvataan myös todisteena tai vakuutuksena jostakin vielä näkymättömästä. Useimmiten ajattelemme aineellisia asioita, joten uskon todellisuuden ymmärtäminen voi olla vaikeaa. On tärkeämpää ymmärtää mitä usko tekee, kuin mitä se on. Uskon kuvaaminen sauvana tai kilpenä sopii hyvin, kun tarkastelemme niiden ominaisuuksia uskon näkökulmasta. Esimerkiksi niin, että uskoon täytyy nojata elämänmatkalla (Mark. 6:8), tai että usko on puolustusvälineemme vihollisen hyökkäystä vastaan (Ef. 6:16). Huolimatta kyvystämme hahmottaa sitä, usko on hyvin todellinen ja voimallinen. Usko ei ole tiedon vastakohta. Pelastava usko ei kuitenkaan synny sen perusteella, mitä ihminen tietää. Usko tulee ainoastaan lahjana Jumalalta. Usko ei ole myöskään järjen vastakohta. Järki ei voi tuoda uskoa, mutta usko voi antaa järjelle suunnan ja merkityksen. Usko voi avata tai syventää ymmärrystä, kun löydämme itsemme käsittämättömiltä vaikuttavien tilanteiden ääreltä. Usko ohjaa ymmärrystä ja järkeä ja antaa perspektiivin sille, mitä tiedämme ja opimme. Nuorella ihmisellä täytyy olla toivo siitä, että se mitä hän tekee nyt elämällään, tuottaa tulosta tulevaisuudessa, vaikka tavoite tuntuu olevan hyvin kaukana. Ilman odotusta tulevasta palkkiosta on mahdotonta pysyä lujana. Jumalan lapsen tavoite on päästä taivaaseen. Olemme taivaskelpoisia ainoastaan uskon kautta. Usko ohjaa askeleemme matkallamme. Elämämme on siis uskon matka. Elävä usko on usko, joka elää sellaisen ihmisen sydämessä, jolla on Pyhä Henki oppaanaan elämässä. Se on lahja Jumalalta. Emme voi tehdä mitään itse säilyttääksemme uskon. Jumala osoittaa meille, että vain synti voi erottaa meidät Hänestä. Uskonkilvoituksemme on Jumalan työ meissä. Niin kauan kuin meillä on Jumalan antama usko, se vaikuttaa meissä halun taistella syntiä vastaan ja säilyttää hyvä omatunto. Kun kuulemme ja uskomme syntien anteeksiannon evankeliumin, Jumala suo meille rauhansa. Jonain päivänä uskoa ei enää tarvita. Sen, mitä emme ole täysin ymmärtäneet ajassa, näemme iankaikkisuudessa. Jumalan sana lupaa uskovaisille ikuisuuden, jossa vallitsee ainoastaan rauha ja ilo. Translation: Matthew Keranen

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion August 2023 - News and Notes -- An estimated 8,300 guests gathered for Summer Services where the Monticello congregation hosted at the LLC property at Silver Springs. We thank the diligent work of the host congregation and the many volunteers who served so the service event could go so smoothly. I still find myself replaying those special moments in my mind – the peaceful and productive annual meeting, unity of faith and understanding at the speakers and board members meeting, meeting new people from North America and abroad, the large continent-wide choir of all ages filing in to sing during the 50-year commemorative celebration, the nostalgia of 50 years of work of our church while visiting the exhibit booth, on and on. Above all we thank the Heavenly Father whose blessings we experienced most abundantly. The motto, “Upon this rock I will build my church” (Matt. 16:18) was referred to in many sermons. Weary travelers were comforted and refreshed. LLC Board Meeting July 6 Visiting ministers Valde Palola, Matti Niemelä and Mauno Soronen from Finland and Timo Löppönen from Sweden attended the meeting and brought greetings from LLC’s sister organizations, SRK and SFC. Many comments expressed appreciation of the numerous occasions we have been able to connect in-person and virtually to discuss the work of our organizations in serving the believers and those seeking God’s kingdom. Board members reviewed planning updates for the current Summer Services and future Winter and Summer services. The 2024 Phoenix Winter Services will be held March 14–17. The motto for those services is “Let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:1). 2024 Summer Services will be in Kelso, Washington, July 4–7, 2024, hosted by the Longview congregation. The motto for those services is “I will be glad and rejoice in thee” (Psalms 9:2). LLC Annual Meeting July 7 LLC delegates reviewed and gave support for the proposed 2024 LLC Operating Plan and supported a dues increase of $4 per member per month. Delegates re-elected Carey Simonson, Dean Simonson (Northwest Area), Sam Roiko, Rick Nevala (East-Central) and Lauri Nevala (Southwest Area) to another three-year term on the LLC Board. Delegates will be prepared to give a detailed report to congregations when the meeting minutes have been finalized. This August, there are still many camps to attend and also opportunities to serve in the kitchens and as camp counselors. Whether your footsteps are taking you to a new school year or to spend another day of summer vacation, may they be blessed. We join with the prayer expressed in song 528, verse 7: Oh, pour on me Your gospel show’r; revive me by Your Spirit’s pow’r and by Your Word of pardon, that fruits of living faith would grow, and I would thrive on earth below, within Your summer garden. Updates on LLC Activities Mission Department The fall foreign mission trips resume in August, following the July hiatus for Summer Services. We continue to monitor travel and on-ground costs for the remainder of this year and as we plan for 2024. The LLC Ministers and Wives Camp will be at Stony Lake Camp September 22–24. Please enroll for this event if you will attend so we can adequately accommodate participants. Communications Department In July, 69 youth from three countries gathered along with an international staff at Hasscib Lake Camp. Language skills were practiced as friendships were formed in a beautiful camp setting. Following the camp, the Finnish language camp group traveled through Eastern Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and North Dakota before returning to the Midwest for the final leg of their journey in North America. We thank the group of 56 travelers for their visit, and we thank the group leaders Marko Niskanen and Hannu Kinnunen for serving with God’s Word in the locations the group visited. At Summer Services, there was a fundraiser for the LLC’s Opisto Fund, which was established earlier this year to help offset opisto tuition costs for scholarship recipients. A small amount per recipient was already awarded for the 2023–24 opisto year, and we will disburse funds again next spring for the following opisto year. Please consider supporting this area of work! You can make a donation at https://www.llchurch.org/donate, where you can select Opisto Fund as the target of your gift. The LLC Opisto Scholarship Committee meets later this month to select opisto scholarship recipients for the 2024–25 opisto year. We are happy to note that there was wide interest in scholarships for that year; the committee will award 14 scholarships to some of the nearly 30 that applied. It’s not too early to consider applying next spring for opisto scholarships for the 2025–26 opisto year! If you are a high school junior, now is the time to begin pondering applying if you wish to go to opisto directly after high school. We welcome applications from any applicants ages 17–22. The Opisto Meet-and-Greet at Summer Services shows how important an opisto year is to many. It can have a lasting impact on the opisto student’s life and friendships. We will hold our second annual Content Creators Workshop at Stony Lake Camp the weekend of September 15–17. Sessions will be devoted to writing, visual arts, music composition and LLC services broadcast content planning. We had planned to record an album of congregational singing at Peace Garden Youth Days. Now that those Youth Days are canceled, we are making alternate plans to record an awaited new album of congregation singing this fall. We are planning a second LLC International Choir Camp for August 2024. This time the camp will be held in Reisjärvi, Finland. We will issue more information and details on this camp opportunity soon. Education At the time of this writing I am sitting in on a confirmation lesson on Creation at Stony Lake Confirmation 3, the last week of 2023 confirmation camps. Camp season continues to go well. 2023 camps have been well attended. Camp work is Gospel work and brings refreshment to the believers. Camp Boards for each area continue to look for additional ways to serve LLC membership. Facilities The site setup, the use of temporary and permanent structures served very well. All RV camp sites were reserved and used. We now see Summer Services in the rear-view mirror. An estimated 8300 people attended the services on Saturday. This festive time was met with an immense amount of joy in being reminded how good it is to dwell within the congregation of God.

Darren Moll | The Voice of Zion August 2023 - Home and Family Article -- Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. – James 3:10 It is interesting how out of the same mouth can come kind words or unkind words. In this temporal life we use words to explain ourselves. For example: We ask someone to help us We explain to someone if we are happy or sad We say positive things to family, friends, and coworkers We might say unkind words if we have a goal of self-gain We might say things that are not so nice to or about others, though perhaps subconsciously it feels like it’s building us up, such as “I’m glad I’m not like that person” In our spiritual life we use words to express what is on our heart. When in the correct spirit the words will come out as kind words. When our temporal selves get in the way, unkind words can flow. For example, if a spirit of self-righteousness is in the way, words most likely will come out as condescending. In a spirit of leniency, the words we speak can be devious and lead one astray. The correct spirit will bring us to realize our own corruption and to use words of comfort and care to those that have gone astray. What is temporal and what is spiritual? If we remember to say words such as “I love you” or “I’m so glad you’re a part of my life”, these are words that help us in this temporal life, and perhaps our spiritual life. At services, we might hear one say, “It’s good to see you!” or “How are things going?” At times I have remembered to tell my children that “God made you beautifully the way you are! God made you perfectly and remember to take care of yourself.” This is a good temporal reminder for our mental health, and is a good reminder for us spiritually that we are created by God. We remember in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount He taught us to do unto others what we would like others to do unto us. This is a great thing to remember to practice in our daily life. I’ve thought that when taking care of something for my spouse or children: I remember the nice things that they have done, or the kind words that they have spoken to me and I wish to do the same for them! When I look back over my life, I can remember those moments from many years ago when family or friends have said kind words or done special things for me. I desire to do the same for those I interact with today. We may not even always realize that those caring remarks and thoughtful actions can have a lasting impact! Others know us by our conduct. In the business world, or in school life, others see how the Spirit is working gentleness in us. I am an insurance agent, and I remember meetings with other agents in which there would sometimes be swearing. Others would apologize to me even though I never told them that I don’t swear or that they shouldn’t swear. Also, as a student in school, some classmates would often note that I didn’t participate in certain worldly activities. Others know us by our conduct, the Spirit is working in us and shining a light into this darkening world. As a believer, it is comforting to know that we can turn to the gospel of the forgiveness of sins when we have spoken harshly to or about our family or friends. The living waters refresh our souls and bring peace, joy and thoughts of gentleness. May we remember to be loving and caring to our travel companions as we are reminded in Galatians 6:10, “Let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Φ Parenting with Gentleness Dean and Keilah Johnson Keilah: Hewitt comes running inside, telling me excitedly about the lizard he saw sunning itself in the yard. I have a hard time concentrating on his words as he dances around, because I am struck by a memory of his older brother Connor, from 15 years ago, since both boys wore this blue flannel shirt from Target, size 2T. The blue hue perfectly accentuates Hewitt’s expressive eyes and the downy flannel matched the softness of his blond hair. I remember how Connor’s eyes seemed just as blue, his hair just as blond when he wore this, and how he too was a sweet and sensitive boy whose delight was infectious. Dean: In the early days of raising our family, I found it could be difficult to handle my children’s emotions when they came to me. It felt overwhelming to deal with their strong feelings. As their dad, I felt like I had to solve their problems. But I didn’t know how to solve emotions. Dean and Keilah: Just when we thought we were starting to figure out parenting, we were thrown for a loop with the arrival and preschool years of our third child. He was so very different from our first two that we were left bewildered and confused when our parenting tactics did not work. We sought out professional guidance because the entire household was impacted both morning and night. The events of pouring milk into the cereal bowl, and the transition to bedtime caused loud, drawn-out crying. From the specialist, we relearned the basics of effective, timely, and relevant discipline. We also learned that change was hard for our child and found some ways to help him transition. Lastly, we discovered that hunger was a very difficult sensation for him to deal with, and we began implementing protein into his bedtime snack to tide him over until morning. We didn’t become perfect parents overnight by any means, but we got back on track to a peaceful home. Keilah: Because Dean was studying for his bachelor’s degree while working full-time, I found myself parenting solo at bedtime quite often. This third child of mine was a challenge. I hate to admit that I raised my voice as well as my hand on more than one occasion. Why couldn’t he just do what he was asked? Why did he resist and fight the very things that his siblings had no problem doing? I remember one night we were attempting to get ready for bed. It wasn’t going very well and I was exhausted and frustrated. I sat on the bed and prayed, “Please God, help me to raise this child.” When I opened my eyes, instead of seeing a stubborn and defiant child, I saw my small boy with tear-rimmed eyes desperately in need of love. I did the only thing there was to do; I gathered him in my arms. Dean: Eventually, I realized that emotions are not a problem to be solved and that acknowledging a child’s emotions does not mean one has to internalize the emotions. Acknowledging their emotion and gently comforting them with a hug is sometimes all that’s needed. This gentler approach may help a child handle their own emotions better, and in turn be more gentle toward others. Dean and Keilah: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger (Prov. 15:1). Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath (James 1:19). Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit. Discussion Points Gentleness is a fruit of the spirit. Why is gentleness important for a believer? What examples from Jesus’ life show gentleness? How can a parent show gentleness when dealing with a child experiencing difficulties, whether a toddler, a teenager or an adult child? How do we embody gentleness in interactions with our elders? Gentleness is often portrayed wordlessly. How is gentleness evident in others’ actions and attitudes? Share ideas of how gentleness can be shown to unbelieving family members or neighbors.

Kathy Waaraniemi and Lynnea Moll | The Voice of Zion August 2023 - Summer Services -- This year marks the 50-year anniversary of the LLC since it was organized in 1973 after a spiritual schism. The milestone was celebrated at Summer Services with a 50-year anniversary program. Former board chair Jim Frantti held the opening devotion and LLC employee and board member Keith Waaraniemi presented a historical snapshot of the 50-year history of the LLC. The believers at that time, with little funds and much faith, moved forward with the work of God’s kingdom in North America. “God has given unity of Spirit and a mind to work and God has given the increase,” Waaraniemi reflected. The benefit of pausing to look back is that we can see the hand of God and how He has helped. It gives comfort and strength to look forward and to keep doing the work with hope and joy when we see how God has helped unto this day and given abundant increase. SRK board chairman Valde Palola brought greetings to the LLC fifty-year anniversary celebration. Palola read from Psalm 36 to bring the SRK’s greetings: “How excellent is thy loving kindness, O God.” Palola expressed joy at the collaborative work between the organizations and marveled at God’s great blessing. “God has protected us until this moment, and we can securely believe that God will protect us in the future,” he said. Speaking from Acts 17:26, Timo Löppönen brought greetings from the believers in Sweden to the celebration. “The history of the LLC is a history of immigrants,” he said. “God had a plan, and now God’s plan has come to fruition to this day. We don’t know the future. That is in God’s hands. We trust in God’s blessings for the future.” Löppönen expressed deep and heartfelt thankfulness for the spirit of cooperation that exists between our organizations. The LLC’s fifty-year program included singing. From across the United States and Canada 230 singers answered the call to “Come and sing!” It was moving to see the singers of all ages walking into the service tent. They sang four selections from the LLC anniversary album to commemorate fifty years. The children’s singing was touching. “It was amazing to see and hear,” Lynnea Moll said. “It was so festive and joyous!” Peggy Glynn from Park Rapids, Minn., read a touching poem she wrote for the fifty-year celebration. “We are not orphans alone on this river,” the poem begins. “We travel in boats crafted by forefathers.” In closing LLC board member Michael Kumpula from the Roaring Fork Valley, Colo., congregation summed up the feeling of the program with these fitting words: “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever” (Heb. 13:8). “God has kept us to this day. We can be thankful we have this firm foundation of faith that does not change,” he said. “God has promised a future and a hope. God’s promises are not empty. We can look to the future and do the work before us with joy.” We are grateful God allows moments to celebrate among the long stretches of work and daily life. We are grateful for a central organization that focuses on many aspects of work in God’s kingdom, work that God has blessed throughout time. Above all, we are grateful that until this day we have been preserved in living faith.

Allen Pirness | The Voice of Zion August 2023 - Column -- I had all but forgotten how enjoyable summer holidays away from school are, since the break between my final years of school and the first years of school for my children has been thirty years. Quickly the memories of carefree summers on the farm have returned as I observe my children cycle between boredom and adventure. Life consisted of seemingly endless days without ever leaving home, except for church on Sunday and the occasional trip to town. Throw in a few overnight stays at friends’ houses, a few days at Youth Camp and the occasional adventure to the beach or Moose Jaw’s “Wild Animal Park,” and that pretty well completed summer. They are good memories that time has polished to a warm luster. I remember one phrase that my father told us when he was teaching a lesson at Youth Camp: “Summer vacation is not a vacation from the endeavor of faith.” In saying it he was reminding us how the enemy finds us even when we are away from the world, and we need to put sin away even in the midst of believers. It was secure to spend a summer away from the pressures of the world that found a young lad at school, yet it was true how peace of conscience could be taken away by falls into sin wherever I was. This phrase of my father’s has come to mind often when considering how we teach our young about endeavoring in faith. At our Youth Day Camp in Rockford this summer, the theme was “Escorts,” which pertains to how we rely on each other on life’s pathway to heaven. I was given a Bible verse, John 15:12, on which to base my introduction. “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” My thoughts when preparing this were about how this teaching is applied to the relationships among the audience I was presenting to, children aged 7–13 who live in a large congregation. They came to the camp from a variety of home settings and family dynamics. Each child wanted to be there and the people who sent them wanted them to be there also. It presented a nice picture of the care and love in God’s congregation ensuring that our young would be raised in the fear of God. It’s natural to think of presenting this topic as children begin to co-exist mostly with other believing children in the summer, away from school, attending large services, family gatherings and youth camps. It’s also important to consider at the end of summer when we’re approaching the return to school, because this instruction is for our interactions with all people in our life. I remember how the return to school always brought some anxiety and trepidation of having to resume our place in the world. In school and often in the workplace we cannot choose our interactions, rather we are in an open environment that facilitates multiple and varied conversations. God has placed His kingdom in the midst of the world in such a way that the contact would be in everyday life. His desire is that all would be drawn to the kingdom of God, enter in through the door and make the journey of following His son in life, suffering and doctrine. This happens in the daily life around the world through the interactions with believers. It often feels like it would be easier to face these interactions if we didn’t feel so sinful and lacking in understanding in matters of faith, but this is not true. God does His work through the ones who don’t have anything of themselves to offer. They can only offer what God gives them. The effect of the confession of faith is God’s doing. It would be tempting to try to avoid the question that others might ask: “Do you think I’m a Child of God?” Love of the undying souls of people compels God to use the mouths of His children to make known the separation from the family of God and to give simple, loving instruction to come unto repentance. When the heart is hard, this is met with defensiveness and ridicule. Then the Child of God is accused of judging and being exclusive. These are hard accusations to face because they don’t recognize the love that is being shown by speaking the truth. We’re not able to compromise with this truth. Apostle Paul wrote about the conjunction of love and truth where he stated that love “rejoices in the truth.” God doesn’t elevate the person speaking the truth above the person receiving the message of truth. Both are sinners and have fallen short of the glory of God, yet God, who has created each of them, has the same hope of eternal life for each of them. I’ve often considered what it means that God has created each person uniquely in His own image. It seems so fundamentally important to how God has intended for people to behave. This glimpse into God’s workings needs to be held dear so that it can shape us and ground us with humanity in humility. I think it means, at least in part, that God has given each person a creative spirit, that when fostered and directed in obedience to God’s will, serves all people. It’s required of us to not only do our best but to help others do their best, supporting and encouraging to serve with God-given gifts. This is consistent with Jesus’ commandment that we love one another as He loved us. Jesus loved us so completely that He laid down His life as the sacrifice for human sin. He has left this power to forgive sins in His kingdom on earth. This gospel is carried on the feet of the believers as God’s Word tells us. We don’t discriminate where God sends us to preach the gospel. We marvel at its course in our lifetime and are thankful that it still remains with us. Jesus’ commandment to “love one another, as I have loved you,” reminds us that God has created each person with the desire that they would be with Him in eternity. He has given us His Word – His Son – who taught us in truth. This truth is yet opened securely by His Holy Spirit in the hearts and gatherings of His children. This, and only this, allows us to love one another as He has loved us: in truth. As we return from a summer of togetherness where hopefully lasting friendships have been made and renewed, may we remember to pray that God will preserve us as His children at our workplace, our school, in the gatherings of believers and in the security of our home. Allen Pirness, along with his wife Jessica and four children, recently moved to Minnesota. A former commodities trader in Lethbridge, Alberta, he is now full-time pastor for the Rockford congregation and also serves the LLC Communications and Mission departments.