Adrian Pirness | The Voice of Zion February 2021 -- At the close of a year and the beginning of a new one, we reflect on the past and look ahead, wondering what lies before us. This is also the case as we begin 2021. The news with its often negative focus can create a bleak image of the future. Do we lose hope? Is it always easy to trust in God’s guidance? Can we patiently live in hope, trusting, one day at a time? With the pandemic that still affects, coupled with our recent American election and tumultuous aftermath we may ponder, “what is God wishing to teach us?” Paul wrote to the Roman believers, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope” (Rom. 5:3–4). While we cannot fully understand the unfathomable depths and ways of God, the reminder to be patient and hopeful is always important. We live in a time where we expect things to happen immediately. If we need to wait a few seconds for the screen to refresh, we wonder if the internet service is down. It is not easy to be patient with every day and mundane things. When difficulties in our life situation drag on, we long for a resolution. We become weary and tired, and certainly impatience can be close. The songwriter aptly describes how we often are: “I’ve often held the sickle while I’ve been sowing seed” (SHZ 560:3). We can remind and encourage one another with patience and allow time for God to work rather than demand immediate results. It is good that we remember one another during this time with much love and patience. Some may come to their conclusions based on their own experiences, and their perspectives based on what they have read and studied. On the other hand, some are left uneasy and restless because they do not know what to think or which perspectives to believe. When we consider the pandemic and the varying approaches, some may feel that the mandates have been too restrictive while others feel they have not restricted enough. We personally should consider if our hearts have remained correct in these matters. Our conscience enlightened by God’s Word teaches correctly and we travel in the care of the Holy Spirit in God’s kingdom. The enemy of souls is happy when love is tried and broken. May we strive for this goal that these differences would not strain or break the love between us and our brothers and sisters in faith. Love and patience with each other is certainly needed, but this never gives license to ignore the truths contained in God’s Word which teaches us to obey those in authority (Rom. 13:1–5). A knowledge of history brings perspective to our challenges today. Paul encouraged the believers in Rome: “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). Bible history informs us of the hardships that were experienced. The Israelites suffered under the bondage of the Egyptians (Exod. 1:8–14). Paul recalled how he suffered in doing God’s work (2 Cor. 11:24–27). Despite these difficult circumstances they desired to trust in God’s care. We can also look back to the influenza pandemic in 1918–19. This can bring perspective for today as citizens of our country then were also asked to limit public gatherings and to isolate. We can see images of people wearing masks and lining up outside the stores waiting for their turn to enter. When we experience difficulty, we often feel that no one has ever needed to deal with what we have been dealt. When we can pause and consider what others are experiencing or past generations have endured, it can give us patience and hope in our own difficulties. Isn’t it good that we, the often impatient, weary and at times, despairing are cared for by a patient and loving heavenly Father? “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Pet. 3:9). We are cared for in His kingdom where we experience forgiveness when our impatience has broken the love and we have fallen into sin. The gospel lifts the tired one, the weak one, the one who despairs. God, in His infinite ways, teaches us to trust in His good care. He lovingly reminds us that He is God. He gives us hope in this life and the hope of heaven by faith!

Lori Loukusa | The Voice of Zion February 2021 -- The author of a popular book series for children has written a story specifically about envy. It describes one of the book’s main characters, Sister Bear, as a “green-eyed monster” who is jealous of her brother when he gets a new bike for his birthday. I can’t read this story to little ones without it also touching me. Even now in my seventh decade in life, I feel this temptation closely. Sometimes envy comes in fleeting thoughts, but other times it remains as a battle. It is not realistic, however, to think that we would never wish for something another person has. Longing for something, or working to get something more, doesn’t mean it is sin or wrong. But when we begin to look at another’s gifts with greed in our heart, it can cause strife and bitterness. These are traits that come from our flesh, and we need to battle against this, with God’s help. We know how sin works in each of us and how we need and desire to have even these sins forgiven. Already in the Old Testament days, God’s commandment warned His people to not covet or lust for something that another person has, but “be ready to assist and serve him in keeping it” (Tenth Commandment). This instruction is just as important for us today. We too can envy or begrudge another person for what they have, or we can also try to gather more and more for ourselves. We see already in little ones the effect of the enemy of souls when we watch toddlers fight over toys. Does this change as we get older? No, we all carry that inherited, sinful portion that began with Adam and Eve’s fall in Paradise. There, everything was perfect and all was provided, but God commanded His first people to not eat the fruit of one certain tree. The serpent tempted Eve to taste of this fruit, saying they would become like God. Eve wanted what she didn’t have, so she took the enticing fruit, ate and also gave some to Adam. The enemy of souls works in the same way today. When we want and take what God has not given us, just as Adam and Eve fell in Paradise, the enemy has gained a victory. If I think of something in my life that has surely hindered happiness, it is envy. Sometimes it is easy for me to want what another person has. I remember coming home from a ladies’ shower gathering, thinking about the home I had visited. Why is my house so plain? And how can someone be so fortunate to have such a beautiful home? Their furniture looked new, the décor like I’d see in a magazine, not like my assortment of garage sale finds and other used items. And how did they know how to put everything together so nicely? As I did after the shower, we often compare ourselves to others, and we can also begin to envy another’s gifts or talents. Perhaps he or she is more organized, works quickly, is creative and can paint or draw, is a good writer, or maybe learning comes easily. We can want another person’s nature or situation. We might notice that someone has many friends, the ability to connect well and communicate with others, and we wish we were that way. Others along with me might know how it is to envy another for their appearance and how they carry themselves. Or perhaps we envy another for his or her job or career, for earning a higher salary or position, or for not having to work so hard to make ends meet. Envy can even extend to a person’s life-situation. Perhaps our friends have married, but God hasn’t given us a spouse. Perhaps our siblings and friends have children, yet we haven’t any. Or maybe it feels that God has given so many children, that we envy someone whom we perceive to have more free time, whose days aren’t all spent in caring for their family. Could there even be people whose spouse has passed away and they envy others who still have a loving helpmate? Or might one envy another person’s good health or stamina if they have struggled in that way? Scripture includes many examples about envy. Joseph’s brothers were jealous that he was one of their father Jacob’s favorite sons. Jacob gave him a special coat of many colors. Then, Joseph’s brothers became angry when he told them about his dream. Joseph had dreamed that he was with them in the field binding sheaves when his sheaf suddenly stood up, and his brothers’ sheaves bowed down to it. We can understand how envious the brothers were. Some of his brothers even wanted to kill him, but instead, they sold him as a slave. This Bible story later portrays a precious example of God’s grace and forgiveness. The brothers’ hearts were humbled and penitent, and Joseph was able to forgive the evil that his brothers did to him. God’s love does not envy, as His Word reminds: “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up” (1 Cor. 13:4). We know that God gives unique gifts to each person and promises to give His children everything they need. “And having food and raiment let us be therewith content” (1 Tim. 6:8). A contented mind is central to happiness in life and helps us to also be happy for our fellow brothers and sisters when we see how God has richly blessed them. I often forget to be thankful for all God has given me, so much more than I can comprehend, and much more than I deserve. Most of all, He has given me the greatest gift any person can own: the gift of living faith and the forgiveness of sins. So then, why would I envy another when God has given me so much? We can pray for God’s help to battle envy, bitterness and all sin. Believing Christ’s gospel gives strength to see the joy and blessing in all that God has given, also to me.

Jim Frantti | The Voice of Zion January 2021 -- Prophet Isaiah depicted the kingdom of God as a sheepfold whose shepherd is the Lord who feeds His flock (Isa. 40:11). It is a familiar picture in the Bible. Jesus himself used the same illustration: “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine” (John 10:14). This image of the kingdom of God teaches us that the Lord is the shepherd of the flock. He knows His sheep and their needs and feeds them accordingly. He is the one who guides the flock along the good and everlasting way. For that reason the psalmist writes, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake” (Ps. 23:1–3). The Lord is always with His flock, even today. His Holy Spirit teaches and guides the flock. When God’s Spirit speaks to us, we hear the voice of the Good Shepherd. Jesus said, “When he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice” (John 10:4). In this flock we have an unerring guide who knows our needs. We can trust in our Good Shepherd. God has given us a secure dwelling place. “Fear not, little flock;” Jesus said, “for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). The Good Shepherd, our Lord Jesus Christ, knows His sheep and what they need. He feeds His sheep heavenly manna. On the wilderness journey, the people of Israel were fed each day with manna from heaven. This simple and unchanging diet sustained them each day on the journey. Also in our time the Lord feeds His flock with the simple manna of His Word. This Word is unchanging and sustains the child of God on the journey to the promised land. It is good to be in the care of the Good Shepherd! We can say as the psalmist David did: when the Lord is our shepherd, we lack nothing (Ps. 23). The word of the gospel is our food and in it is the power of God (Rom. 1:16). This food was the source of power for the Old Testament wilderness travelers. It was the source of strength for our forefathers in faith who have finished their journey and reached their destination. It remains the same source of strength that will bring us – and generations to come – to our eternal home. In 2020, we experienced a time unlike any that most of us have seen in our lives. This affected our daily lives and the work of God’s kingdom. Yet we experienced that the Good Shepherd still cares for His flock. As we begin a new year and wonder what 2021 will bring, we yet remain in the security of God’s kingdom and His unchanging Word. As God has guided and blessed His kingdom in years past, may He bless us and the work of His kingdom in the coming year as well.

Matthew Keranen, Sandra Pylvainen and Anne Servin | The Voice of Zion January 2021 -- LLC Publications Online Workshop Fall 2020 The first LLC Publications Online Workshop was held on October 31, 2020, via the Zoom communication platform. Participants from across the continent gathered in an online space to learn and be encouraged in prose, poetry and photojournalism both for their personal development and for the future of LLC publications. LLC Publications staff view the expansion of communications capacity as important to mission work both here on the American continent and to mission work in Africa and South America. To that end, the online workshop was conceived during the era of COVID-19 restrictions. LLC workshop organizers found that they were unable to convene at Stony Lake Camp as planned, so in place of the in-person workshop, an online workshop plan emerged. Over thirty participants from across the United States and Canada met for four hours, an hour for each subject session, with instructors Matt Keranen, Sandra Pylvainen and Anne Servin. Presentations included mini-lessons, panelist commentary from across the continent, writing activities and small group discussions. While the foundational elements of each subject area comprised much of each lesson, the instructional plans developed with the central idea of encouraging current and future contributors to LLC publications – the Voice of Zion, Shepherd’s Voice, Christmas in Zion and Easter Messenger. Session I: Prose Matt Keranen began his lesson by reviewing some good writing axioms for prose of any genre. Significantly, he highlighted the need for fresh language and avoiding tropes that first come to mind. Prose is writing that tends to follow natural patterns of everyday speech (as opposed to rigid, predetermined structure) for the purpose of expressing oneself, educating, entertaining or providing information or instructions. Then, he presented a unique short fiction form – the Japanese Haibun – as his structural framework for developing a tight descriptive prose piece. The genre may include one or a few descriptive paragraphs, then ends in a haiku, the 5-7-5 syllable poem form. This is Matt Keranen’s Haibun, read as a model: The hands, no longer mobile, lay on the bedcover, under which the rest of him is also still. The tired eyes follow me as I gather the albums from the shelf in the corner and carry them to the bedside table. I move pill bottles aside, a drinking glass and a blood pressure cuff. I switch on the lamp and open the shades. Outside the summer day shines brightly, grass waving in the sun on the river bank. A boat floats by, the girl rowing it throws her head back in laughter. I lift an album and open it, nestle it between his still arms. His fishing boat in the photograph is also still, frozen in time fifty years later. The steelhead, the salmon, caught in the net, spill over the hull to the slick boat floor gleaming in the flash of the camera. That boat moved and it moves now, in our minds. Lived life flows, a lively stream in grandpa’s eyes. His strong hands pulled nets Lifting, wrestling writhing fish Slippery livelihood. Writers tried the form in a ten-minute “storm,” then shared in breakout groups. Results were rich. Here is an example written by Allen Pirness: The determined, monotonous purr of a John Deere diesel engine is the same whether pulling a plow or leaving the bay out to sea in the pre-dawn light. The warm soft sea air feels much better than the chilly, dry air of the farm. The prospect of landing a sporting fish is much more appealing than considering how to till the field most efficiently. The open galley door conveys the welcoming smell of bacon and coffee versus the tractor cab waft of old spilled coffee and grease. This excites my appetite to make yet another stimulating contrast to the differences vacation brings when work is left behind. The hurried, half-asleep routine of the captain and crew reminds me that this is their mundane. They shiver in the breezy chill as we get up to speed on the open glassy water of the calm morning sea. The hooks are baited, the captain glides to a stop at a promising patch of seaweed floating on the endless shimmer of sunrise on the water. Fishing lines are cast. An instant strike on the bait. The fight has begun. Session II: Poetry The poetry session focused on freeverse poetry, its origins and some elements typical to this poetic type. Freeverse poetry is written by contemporary poets here and in Europe, also among believers who write poetry. While we continue to write and enjoy the rhyming and particular rhythms found throughout the long history of poetic types (such as epic poetry of Homer or The Kalevala), we note that contemporary poetry has shifted from tight forms to more open styles. Around the turn of the 20th century, as society progressed further into the Industrial Age, art forms shifted to modernism. Poets began working with imagistic poetry without adherence to a prescribed rhyme and rhythm. In this freeverse style, rhythms felt increasingly conversational. Sound devices shifted to subtle repetitions and the poetic focus moved to supporting the message in the image. After reviewing elements common to imagistic poetry, the poetry session examined poetic examples from Teuvo Aho, illustrating a freeverse, imagistic form. Panelists Peggy Glynn, Krista Simonson, Karl Haapala and Aaron Wuollet commented on their personal poetry writing practices: Why do I write poetry? Where do poems hide? How do I begin? How do I revise? Panelists’ answers were poems in themselves – so often, as poets discuss their craft, they play with images. Aaron Wuollet, in his remark, supported the poet's goal: he likened the revision of a poem to a sculptor cutting away stone to reveal the essence of the image, exposing some truth about human existence. For the freewrite activity, writers chose one of two topics, grief or Christmas. Products of the freewrite reflect the study of imagery in freeverse form. Writers who chose to write about grief saw the topic through personal reflection: Emptied parents gaze through arranged flowers covering freshly disturbed mounds dry eyes, all tears cried out twittering birds gaily flit above silent headstones translating sorrow to angels’ songs Lisa Wuollet It’s been two years but sometimes I stop in my step and recall the cardamom smell of your kitchen and your soft wrinkled hand with stubby fingernails serving pulla spread with the butter from the Blue Bonnet tub on the counter and the rounded wooden knife that fits perfectly in my hand Keilah Johnson Other poets wrote about Christmas during the 15-minute freewrite, drawing perhaps from past reflections or memories: The walk is crisp, a smell of snow in the air. A bus scurries by, studs claw the moist road. Doors open to a muted hush, warm light fills the sanctuary. The story of Christmas is told. Karl Haapala Under the Father’s Table This poor sheep dog Crawls under the grace table And finds Christmas table crumbs. Father’s gentle hand Reaches down to caress Little boy slips me a prized morsel. Oh….how good it feels here Safe and secure Under the Father’s table. Jim Moll These artifacts provide a glance of what transpired over the hours of workshopping. Follow-up comments on the workshop ranged from “not enough time in the break-out rooms” to “how can we form online workshop groups?” These comments reflect the engagement in writing and in this online workshop model. The writers were committed to honing their skills for work with language, imagery and message. Most of all, it was evident that believers find writing to be therapeutic and edifying for their journey, whether or not their work was published or even finished. Session III: Photography and Photojournalism This session briefly presented the history of photojournalism in America and outlined the objective of creating narrative from imagery. In essence, photojournalism is a news story told through pictures with little or no text. It began with pictures in newspapers during the Crimean War and the American Civil War when camera technology was growing as a means of reporting. Photojournalism tells a story through photographs, ones that can make a person stop and think, “Wow. That’s a great image.” Photojournalists’ images are candid yet informative images, taken with intention and purpose. These images are commonly black and white, giving a timeless feel. The absence of color overall facilitates focus on the subject in the image rather than the hues of the subject matter. Black and white is a good choice when the color in a photo may serve only as a distraction from the intended message. In addition to background review, the session looked at other elements to consider when photographing an image, such as the rule of thirds, lighting and composition. This online photojournalism workshop intended to provide general tips for photos used for the Voice of Zion, Shepherd’s Voice and other publications. Typically, these periodicals need the mood of the photo to convey safety, warmth and peace. Sometimes a symbolic picture can have a neutral mood but suggest a theme. In general, photos are needed to illustrate, inform and inspire. During this session, participants were asked to do a photo activity to help recognize how lighting can impact an image and how lighting and placement is of central importance in photography. The aim was to help participants learn what all goes into photographing and creating a final image for use in LLC publications. In Summary In part, what is lost by not having an in-person workshop is known to us. We know we were not able to assemble together in a camp setting, face to face, with long, relaxing dialogues about the writing process and the product. We missed that opportunity. Meanwhile, what may have been gained by using this new online format is unknown to us. New opportunities within this online model seemed likely: participants could join from thousands of miles away, writers with young children were able to join in even with children nearby, perhaps some curious ones Zoomed with us for even a short time – just to listen. All of this may expand capacity for LLC Publications; the Voice of Zion and Shepherd’s Voice staff may find new writers and photographers who are willing to share their gifts. But what did this online gathering mean for each of us? What about readers, somewhere in the future, who read what these writers write, and in reading the pieces feel encouraged, less alone, or moved to share their joy of believing with another? In this, we pray and trust that God will bless this online workshop effort and all publications efforts as He sees best.

Ilari Kinnunen, Translation: M. Keranen | The Voice of Zion January 2021 -- In 2021 Doctrine and Life will feature translations of articles from previous SRK Yearbooks. It has traditionally been thought that the world’s future is made better by children and youth. They will build society with knowledge and skills that were not available to previous generations. Are we now at some sort of turning point when an ordinary young person might say in all earnestness that the future is already ruined? Have we failed at cultivating and protecting the earth so miserably that today’s youth will become embittered toward the generations that came before them? Previous generations’ decisions inevitably affect the lives of future generations. It’s an indisputable fact that humanity has made mistakes. Instead of giving up, however, it is a better option to take a moment to ponder together what might be worthwhile to do in this situation. Adults can support youth by joining them in creating a trusting outlook on life. Adults have life experience which helps put things in perspective. Youth are best encouraged by doing things together. An effort can and should be made to continue building the future. For a young person, things may seem grimmer than they actually are. In the past too people have feared an unknown future. I recall my own time of youth, how hard it was at times to trust that I would find my own place in the world and that a path forward would open before me. However, all was well. In the army I learned one important thing: a situation is what it is, and on those terms one does what one can. I also remember from my time of youth that faith provided security and confidence that the heavenly Father would arrange things as was meant. The youth of today can trust in this as well. A Happy Country without Children? When Finland’s President Sauli Niinistö launched the Common Responsibility Campaign on February 2, 2020, he stated his position on the declining birth rate in Finland: “In the country that is evaluated to be the world’s happiest, it shouldn’t be so that uncertainty about the future causes young people to give up on starting a family.” The President’s statement is a good description of today's situation for youth and young adults: the future of our affluent society is threatened if children are not born. On the other hand, no one wants to have children just because society needs them. There are many reasons for not having children. Some want to seek self-fulfillment in peace, advance in their careers and pursue their dreams. Economic realities may cause some to calculate the costs associated with having children. It has also been argued that not having a child is the best way to counteract climate change. There are many people whose circle of close human contacts includes few children, and this might make them doubt their own abilities to be a parent. Meanwhile, in the year 2015 it was estimated that in Finland there were 60,000 couples suffering from unintentional infertility. A believing young person knows that getting married is likely to mean a future as a family with children, since believers for reasons of conscience do not want to prevent the birth of children. Commitment to marriage and a family may seem difficult nowadays. A life that is well planned and controlled appeals to believers as well. Many parents have a hard inward struggle over whether they feel able to accept more children. Child-Friendly Atmosphere Where would we be able to obtain strength and trust in the future for ourselves, our youth and our families? We would certainly have opportunities to transform the atmosphere around us in a way that young people could get married trusting in the future and be able to accept children if God sees fit to give children to them. My wife’s immigrant students are often surprised when they find out we have five children. Amazed and delighted, they have stated that you are like us. Starting a family at a young age and having several children requires courage in modern Finnish culture to depart from the prevailing lifestyle. It requires good self-esteem to be different. But happiness is ultimately not dependent on striving for the same things as most other people. Now and then I think of the fact that God has created all people. If this is so, doesn’t a believing person then represent the way of life that God desires? There is little we can do about the fact that the world is becoming more and more estranged from the will of God. As believers we can nonetheless turn our thoughts to see that humans are supposed to live life trusting in God. In modern times it is good, on the one hand, that differing lifestyles are becoming more widely accepted. A believing family is ultimately just one part of a multi-faceted world. I am confident that as far as others are concerned, we can continue to live according to our values in the future as well. If only the views that faith opens before us would remain clear to us. In the midst of this all we can say as the psalmist does: “It is good for me to draw near to God” (Ps. 73:28). The Media Shapes Perceptions The media is like a funnel that in essence pours bad news into our innermost being. The media performs the role that belongs to it of relaying information. I don’t believe media professionals are purposely trying to create despair in people. But that can still happen because we are incapable of taking in all the negative information. The media is also not unbiased. Individual journalists and entire media companies have their own objectives and ideals that they attempt to promote. The media is not without cause called the fourth estate or power. It strongly affects public opinion and affects my thinking and yours in ways that are hard to recognize. In order not to be buffeted by the winds of the world and too easily influenced, we should have strong roots in God’s Word and in the congregation. Paul exhorted the Christians of his day, “Prove [meaning “test”] all things; hold fast that which is good” (1 Thess. 5:21). The writer to the Hebrews also recognized the danger of going astray when he said that we must pay careful attention to that which we have heard so we do not drift away (Heb. 2:1). God’s written Word has remained the same through the centuries. How is it possible that its instruction and values can be relevant and appropriate in all times? I think it is because it is not only the human-written word, but rather effected by the Holy Spirit. Its correct interpretation opens at different times in God’s congregation by the same Spirit (2 Pet. 1:20,21). As individual believers, we are supported by God’s care in the fellowship of the congregation. This does not mean obeying human authorities but rather a desire to settle on, along with other believers, a way of life that is suitable to the Holy Spirit in this time. On the basis of the values that stem from our faith, we can serve as a light and as salt in our society. In our places of work and study as well as in various positions of trust, a believer’s conduct serves as a reminder that it is possible yet today to attempt to live preserving faith and a good conscience. A believer, however, should not attempt to rise above others, because we all fall and we remain believers only by grace. The book of Jeremiah instructs, “Seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace” (Jer. 29:7). A constructive and God-trusting outlook on life given by faith is the best way to look to the future. We can use our God-given gifts for the benefit of our communities. The Security of a Child of God Even believers from time to time can fear many things. We may fear on our own behalf or for others such things as serious illness, death or perhaps economic collapse. Nonetheless we can always recall that God knows all and guides our lives (Ps. 139). Our fears may come true sometimes, but in that case they are allowed by God. He has good will toward us even in trials: I have my own plans for you, says the Lord. My thoughts are of peace and not of evil: I will give you a future and hope (Jer. 29:11). A believer, nonetheless, must fear sin (Matt. 10:28). Falling into sin removes peace from the heart and shakes one’s sense of security. If sin begins to rule one’s life, the person’s image of a bright future begins to crumble as well. To counter this, we have the gospel, which frees us from sin and restores peace to our hearts. A believer can live in peace and die peacefully. We cannot even fathom how great a gift the hope of heaven is. Amidst everyday life heaven often feels so far away. Yet that is precisely the reason we want to live as believers, despite hardships and the current prevailing trends. Originally published in Finnish in the SRK’s yearbook Yhteyttä rakentamassa. Ajankohtaista 2020 (SRK, 2020). Translated and published with permission.

Paul Waaraniemi | The Voice of Zion March 2022 -- Can we have a rich life, even on a limited income or modest means? It may look daunting to plan a living arrangement on a fixed or modest income, but it’s good to remember that throughout life, what we have has been given by God. It has been our experience that the main ingredient to both getting by and enjoying life is to live within your blessings. It must be acknowledged that it is a common trial of elders and those reaching retirement – and others too – to wonder whether I will have enough to live on. We may even be very worried about expensive late-life care. Financial planning firms and advisors, though a valuable resource, are good at sowing seeds of doubt: “Don’t run out of money before you run out of time.” Additionally, it’s natural to be concerned about saving, planning, and budgeting for retirement, healthcare coverage, housing, paying down mortgage, and so forth. Nevertheless, even after careful planning and saving, we may face situations where it’s clear that God decides our portion and path in a different direction. How do we deal with that? First, we need to truly heed what God’s Word says: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content” (1 Tim. 6:6–8). We can be content with affordable dwellings, economical cars, lower-cost clothes and no-cost pastimes. Even modest possessions ably serve our needs, and we may well find that less is often more – less worry and more simple enjoyment. To manage within our comfort zone, it’s important to view with gratitude what we’ve been given as a blessing and not compare our situation and belongings to others’ possessions. Envy and fulfilling material desires can deprive us of joy, drive us to impulsive purchases and even into debt. Our experience has been that it’s good to be happy with our own lifestyle and not look at the neighbor’s new boat. Instead, it’s a joy to realize that “the best things in life are free” – or, we might add, not necessarily expensive. Among the most pleasurable gifts are people and experiences – services of God’s Word, fellowship, and the gatherings of believers give social enjoyment, but more importantly spiritual sustenance, for we cannot “live by bread alone” (Matt. 4:4). Spending leisure time with family and friends is also one of the great blessings of life. Going to see near ones or hosting them in our homes are precious, memory-making activities. Car travel, going to services, visiting and camping are all quite affordable, interesting, and enjoyable. Travel doesn’t have to be far-flung, exotic, and costly. In today’s world of rapid communication, we can also maintain precious friendships across the miles by phone, mail or email, messaging and video calls. Though we didn’t get cards sent out this past Christmas season, we sure enjoyed receiving them (and promise to send cards again soon). Closeness and fellowship do not cost much, but they sure pay dividends. Other things that enrich life and give pleasure but aren’t costly are art, photography, song, music, reading, observing nature, walking, biking, swimming, fishing, cooking, baking, gardening, even writing. It is also both challenging and fun to bargain shop. Thrift stores are double-blessings. We’ve discovered that you can find much of what you need affordably in secondhand stores, and it feels good that useful items are finding extended life, rather than being sent to the landfill. While material things are not enduring, they really should last longer and see more use than is typical in today’s throw-away culture. We may also feel cultural pressure to have bigger and higher-end housing, cars, clothes, and consumer goods, but those of us on fixed incomes find it’s good to tailor lifestyle to income. Financial pressure robs peace of mind. Housing options exist in our communities that are affordable and comfortable. We found an affordable 55-plus RV and mobile home community in Arizona where we have enjoyed spending about half of the year. At first, we were the only residents here from our LLC congregations; now this year we have the company of eight other believing couples. This has provided precious fellowship, mutual support and ride-sharing. It has been nice to escape cold northern climes and be warmed by the love and services of the Arizona congregations and the Southwestern sunshine. After five years of retirement, we realize that we can trust that God provides. We have lacked for nothing and have often discussed how those out-of-budget items could never add real enrichment. It’s good to know that God gives what we need both temporally and spiritually. While scripture doesn’t speak of temporal poverty in the quote, “to the poor the gospel is preached” (Luke 7:22), it is comforting for us to know that in God’s kingdom, even amid our weaknesses, doubting, and human tendency to seek after and worry about earthly treasures, we can hear and believe the gospel of the forgiveness of sins in Jesus’ name and blood. A song of Zion also asks a question that brings us to the crux of this writing endeavor: “Believe on the Lord in His kingdom and lay up your treasure in heaven – then how shall you ever be poor?” (SHZ 489:2).

Ray Waaraniemi | The Voice of Zion March 2022 -- Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. — 1 Peter 5:6 God’s Word instructs people to be humble. In his first epistle, Apostle Peter exhorts to be “clothed with humility.” Other words for humility include lowliness and meekness. Those are familiar to us from the Bible. Words that are opposite to humility include arrogance, pride and conceit. These qualities dwell in our flesh, and in living faith we battle against them. Humility does not typically come naturally to humans; arrogance and pride seem to come more naturally. Yet, life experiences can humble us all, removing pride and self-exultation. We can understand this to be God’s work, keeping us in childlike faith. The example of Jesus is our best lesson in humility. What does it mean to be “clothed with humility?” We understand that to be clothed is to be covered, altering our appearance. Our speech, attitude, countenance, and actions can create impressions, perhaps making us approachable and down-to-earth or distant and above others. For one to be clothed in humility, one must put down the effects of the flesh that cause us to think ourselves better than another. Paul exhorts, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering” (Col. 3:12). Instructions of the Holy Spirit Peter writes, “Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder” (1 Pet. 5:5). As we come of age, we are increasingly exposed to the ideals of the world. Naturally, humans have many questions about life and its purpose. Questions of living faith and the teachings of God’s kingdom often contrast with the teachings in the world. Philosophical teachings often promote self-reliance and independence, sometimes rejecting obedience to elders and those in authority. Doubts easily beset us and we may question the instructions from God’s kingdom. When this happens, it is important to put away sin and doubts and to humbly submit to instruction of the Holy Spirit. This respect for the Word of God is for all of us, at any age. Peter writes also, “Yea, all of you be subject one to another” (1 Pet. 5:6). We can understand the importance of this exhortation in that the Holy Spirit dwells in God’s children and the Spirit moves collectively through the believers to reveal the will of God. Jesus Teaches Humility Jesus teaches humility by His example and His words. The theme for the first Advent Sunday is “Your King comes in humility.” From one of the gospel texts we learn how Jesus entered into Jerusalem: “They brought [the colt] to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon. And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way” (Luke 19:36,37). Jesus chose to ride on the colt of an ass, a lowly beast of burden, not on a beautiful horse that would have been much more fitting for a king. He came in a lowly manner so that the weakest sinner, the sick and the poor could approach Him. Jesus had no interest in an earthly kingship. He told Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews” (John 18:36). Jesus’ battle was not against kings or temporal governments, even though there would have been good reason to oppose them; His purpose, in coming to earth from heaven, was so much higher than temporal power and honor: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18). These examples of Jesus are good for us to remember. We live in a time when there is unrest in the world and our communities. Political battles and critics of our governments are prevalent. We’ve been richly blessed to live in free countries where we have individual rights and freedoms. Especially precious is the freedom of religion, to worship and live as the Holy Spirit teaches. Most of us have never experienced oppression in our lifetime. Our freedoms are so normal to us that we expect to always have them – we even demand them. But we don’t know how long God will bless our nations with freedom. Today, we enjoy more freedom and prosperity than many believers have had throughout the history of the world. God has allowed His children to live under the rule of oppressive kings and governments and even suffer slavery, e.g., the children of Israel in Egypt and Babylon. God allowed the children of Israel to lose their independence to foreign nations at different times because of their disobedience. God’s Word Teaches Obedience In our republic and parliamentary forms of government, we have numerous peaceful ways to voice our opinions on laws, regulations and policies. We have the right to disagree and to be critical of the actions of our governments without fear for our safety. As children of God, we should do so respectfully, in a spirit of meekness – asking the Holy Spirit to guide our activities – not in arrogance and pride. Even when we disagree with laws or regulations, we should obey them if doing so is not sin. God’s Word teaches us to be obedient to the laws of our land: “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” (Rom. 13:1). Paul exhorts us to follow the example of Jesus, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Phil. 2:5–8). A Secure Dwelling Place Jesus in His invitation to the tired and weary traveler described Himself as meek and lowly: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matt. 11:29). When Jesus comes the second time, it will not be in the lowly manner of His first coming. Instead, “Then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27). May God help us to put down pride and keep us in childlike faith. May each of us accept the humble status that Jesus has given us: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves” (Matt. 10:16). Sheep are not able to protect themselves from wolves, they rely on the shepherd’s protection and the security of the flock. We also, as humble sheep, are secure in the care of the Good Shepherd in His little flock. Come what may in this world, we have a secure dwelling place as God’s children.

Martin Pylvainen | The Voice of Zion March 2022 -- Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord’s name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth! He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill; that he may set him with princes, even with the princes of his people. — Psalms 113:1–8 Psalm 113 is a song of praise and was used as the Hallelujah or Halleh song to begin the three Jewish pilgrim festivals: Passover, Pentecost and the Festival of Booths. Today we also open services with hymns of praise, such as song 202 “Praise God, O Zion! Offer Him Thanksgiving,” and we close special services by singing song 353 “To Our Blest Creator Thankful Praises Flow.” But we might ask why this psalm appears on the church calendar on a day called Mary’s day. And why does the church calendar pause to speak of Christmas on the Fourth Sunday of Lent, nearing Easter? A Message from Angel Gabriel Let’s consider the second question first. On Mary’s day, we remember the announcement from the angel Gabriel to Mary, telling her she would give birth to a son who would be named Jesus. Gabriel’s message was the first of many pronouncements Mary would hear about Jesus throughout her life. Gabriel came to tell of God’s plans and to Mary he said: “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever and of his kingdom thee shall be no end” (Luke 1:32,33). Gabriel went on to tell Mary how the Holy Ghost would come upon her and she would give birth to one called the Son of God and her cousin Elizabeth, though childless and elderly was then six months into pregnancy. Mary’s response was one of simple faith.: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). The church calendar gets its theme “the handmaid of the Lord” from Mary’s response and then places Mary’s Day around nine months prior to Christmas to mark the conception of Jesus. Soon after Gabriel’s appearance announcing the upcoming birth of Jesus, Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth. She heard a second pronouncement then about Jesus from Elizabeth. Luke tells us Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost when she heard Mary’s voice. God gave Elizabeth these words: “Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.” Mary’s response to Elizabeth recorded in Luke 1:46–55 was one of praise to God. This poem of praise contains allusions to many parts of the Old Testament, including our text, Psalm 113. A Song of Praise Psalm 113 begins with three exhortations to praise the Lord and to praise Him now and forever more. The Psalmist instructs us that praises be made from the rising of the sun until it sets. By this example, he wishes to illustrate for us our need to praise God at all times. When life is peaceful and in times of prosperity we may find it easy to offer praises to God. But the Psalmist reminds us to praise “from this time forth” without any regard for what is happening in our lives. For we always have reason to praise God for the gift of faith and hope of everlasting life in heaven. Faith is the greatest blessing we have from God. David tells us, “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered” (Ps. 32:1). In the very opening of his letter to the Ephesians, Paul says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (verse 3). Often, we forget to praise God for these heavenly blessings. The psalmist in Psalm 107 repeats four times the admonition: “Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” And not only praise Him, but Psalm 113 also reminds that we will continue this praise “for evermore” – when we reach heaven. He Raises Up the Poor Our heavenly Father regards the humble things of this world. In verse 8, the psalmist tells us what kind of God we have who can make everything out of nothing. “He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill,” or ash heap. The prophet Samuel’s mother Hannah spoke these words of verse 8 when offering thanks for Samuel’s birth as an answer to her prayers. Jesus spoke in the sermon on the mount that “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:3). God does not lift up those who feel themselves in high standing before Him. Rather it is those who feel themselves poor and needy who receive His grace gift of the forgiveness of their sins. That He May Set Him with Princes Our text concludes with the reason God raises up the poor and needy. One does not receive grace for themselves only, but also for their service to others. Redeemed believers can share their gift of faith with seeking or lost ones and provide physical and spiritual help to their brothers and sisters in faith. Paul writes, “The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal” (1 Cor. 12:7). We do this work, this “manifestation of the Spirit,” not with our own strength. It is through the power of the gospel that we are given a mind to serve. Believing our sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood, let us remember to offer our praises to the heavenly Father that He remembers and lifts up weak ones, gives His good and perfect gifts, so we may one day reach heaven.

MariJoy Andersen | The Voice of Zion April 2022 -- Life is busy. It is full of distractions. Work can fill our minds, long after we’ve left the office. The kids’ constant desire to be entertained, the house in need of repairs, even our own dreams and plans – all of it can occupy the space of our hearts and minds. Have you ever noticed that when everything is going right, your heart and mind become occupied by these things, but the second things go awry your heart and mind begin to seek God? I have found that seeking Him, praying to Him, loving Him and confessing faith to others brings me closer to God. And when I live in that place even trials become great blessings because they drew me closer to Him in ways nothing else ever could. I look back and think about how we may not in the moment see the goodness that comes with trials, but it is there. A passage from Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians has in a way become my own over the years. During the constant ups and downs and the endless healing cycles of brain injury recovery, I have read them over and over until memorized. Maybe these words have also become close to you, as it seems to be a place God wants us all to be in, where we realize that in our weakness, He is made strong. “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor. 12:7–10 NKJV). God has ways of getting our attention, of drawing us back to Him, of teaching us where our focus needs to be kept. May these trials strengthen our faith and become our greatest blessings! Think about how many of our blessings every day of our lives come through rain – rain that causes plants to grow, so we can eat and live another day. Or another kind of rain that brings healing in many ways – the tears we cry of which His Word says He will wipe away each one. For a believer the trials of this life are God’s mercies in disguise. It is this simple understanding that so confounds the wise and yet is one of our greatest treasures.

Rory Sorvala | The Voice of Zion April 2022 -- Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. — 1 Corinthians 13:1 Would we wish to speak in tongues? This portion of scripture comes from Paul’s first letter to the new congregation of believers in Corinth because he heard of various troubles that developed there concerning the desire to speak in tongues. One trouble is that they began to look at the God-given spiritual gifts within themselves. They took pride in their work and they began to make comparisons, desiring gifts that might be admired by others. This type of wrong desire wouldn’t help build up this congregation. Paul has a godly love for these struggling believers and was compelled by the Holy Spirit to instruct and correct this wrong understanding. In our text, Paul offers instruction regarding love in the congregation. He also addresses another gift and that is of speaking with tongues. The entire thirteenth chapter speaks of this brotherly love that must exist within the kingdom. Then, in the fourteenth chapter Paul writes on speaking with human tongues. With regard to speaking in unknown tongues, Paul does not wish to diminish this gift and in fact speaks highly of it. Paul says, “I wish that all men speak in tongues” (14:5). And he furthermore states that he “speaks in tongues more” than the others (14:18). But he still has a word of caution: “Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue” (1 Cor. 14:19). So then, what exactly is the gift of speaking with tongues? I myself previously misunderstood this gift, thinking “speaking with tongues of men” is the translating of spoken Word of God from one language into another, a language that the listener understands. This is, of course, a necessary gift used today as it probably was then. An example of this is found in Acts. During Pentecost when many peoples of many languages came together in one place (Acts 2:1) and all people heard the joyous message of the Word of God in their own language. Many believed it with joy and were baptized. The gift of speaking with tongues is not that type of gift. Rather, speaking with tongues is inspired speech to express the praise of God or other deeply felt emotion. When one is speaking with tongues their utterances may be indiscernible. There are sounds like words but without a meaning to the human listener, although, an interpreter may be able to translate such speech. This phenomenon, appearing in those days, does not happen today to believers. Some believers in decades past have been given to rejoice, also an act of speech given by God. That mysterious gift is not commonly witnessed today. We can consider these speech phenomena as spiritual gifts, given for the time. Paul here says, “Though I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” Could it be that the culture of this immoral city of Corinth looked with admiration on speaking in tongues? The individual who speaks in tongues is thought to be moved by the spirit and could be viewed as pious by others who do not understand that God gives gifts as He will. A similar piety could be displayed in the giving of alms or praying in public. Jesus instructs regarding these as well. “Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward” (Matt. 6:2,5). Paul wishes that the Corinthians would understand what spiritual gifts are and to strive for those that edify the whole body of Christ. “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant” (1 Cor. 12:1). In this whole twelfth chapter of this first letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul explains that there are many gifts God has given to the believers. They are God-given and all are necessary and important. No one gift is above another. He deepens their understanding of spiritual gifts by providing a picture of the body of Christ. Gifts within the congregation are like the members of the body of Christ. All members are necessary. In this chapter he enumerates many gifts which include wisdom and understanding, gifts of healing and working of miracles, gifts of prophecy, and of discerning of spirits, diverse kind of tongues and interpretation of tongues. Later in chapter 13, Paul addresses faith, hope and charity as he writes, “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor. 13:13). For without charity we are nothing. Charity is that which edifies the body of Christ. It is true brotherly love. That kind of love is not selfish, it does not look for a return, it is constant in season and out of season, it is patient, kind, longsuffering. Thus charity, or brotherly love, is ready to care for a distressed one, one who is faltering in faith, or one who becomes wounded by sin. It is also a ready preacher of the gospel of the forgiveness of sins. We experience with wonder when a brother or sister in faith comes to us when we are downcast, distressed, weary, doubting, or wounded by sin. God through His loving mercy sends to us an angel. Is this not the kingdom of God where loving care is found? How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace and bring good tidings! We too are exhorted to have charity. This is a bond of perfection found in God’s kingdom. Is it not the hallmark of God’s kingdom? We are instructed to use this gift freely. Jesus’ words are recorded in the writings of St. John: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have Love one to another” (John 13:34,35). The kingdom of God is that golden candlestick that is before the world, a light that shines in a dark place. Jesus also instructs: “Let your light so shine before the men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). Allow this charity to reign in the heart to care for one another that we may fulfill the law of love. “Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (Rom. 13:10). The Holy Spirit that dwells within a believer teaches us to cherish these good gifts that edify the body of Christ. Even as Paul writes in the end of the twelfth chapter: “But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way” (1 Cor. 12:31). Thus we see that all gifts are necessary in God’s kingdom. We do not begin to say that one is greater or lesser than the other. We being many, are one body: for we are all partakers of the body of Christ.