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

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

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

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

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

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

Kim Kuopus, Sara Pirness, Troy Riutta | The Voice of Zion October 2022 - Home and Family Article -- Humans are physical, mental and spiritual beings. Over the course of our lives, we may struggle or have hardships in any of these areas of lives. Diseases and illnesses can come. We learn in God’s kingdom how to care for spiritual distress. In addition, God has blessed us in our time with resources to address those things that compromise physical and mental health. In this Home and Family feature, three healthcare professionals share their thoughts on mental health, treatment of mental illness and how these topics relate to our faith. Kim Kuopus, Troy Riutta and Sara Pirness are siblings who are all nurse practitioners in the field of psychiatric mental health. How important is mental health to our life of faith? Anyone can have a mental illness – how might faith life be impacted? Troy: Mental health is important to our life of faith. Sara: Faith and spirituality are widely considered to be a positive influence on psychological well-being. Kim: When we are mentally healthy, we can be free, joyful and happy in our day-to-day life. When mentally healthy, it is easier to manage the stressors and demands of everyday life with patience, love, and tolerance. It is easier to be a willing worker in God’s kingdom when we are mentally healthy. Sara: The reverse is interesting to ponder. If one is struggling with depression, anxiety or even psychosis, thoughts can become skewed and clouded, perceptions may be more negative than what is reality. Kim: If we suffer with social anxiety, going to services, attending church camps and visiting others’ homes becomes difficult. One can make excuses to stay home and avoid these social activities. Troy: A person may find it difficult to attend services and have fellowship with believers due to symptoms that accompany mental illness. This can lead to isolation, temptation, and falling away from faith. Sara: A person may even struggle to feel the freedom and joy that comes with forgiveness of sins if they are often burdened with feelings of sadness or angst that persist for no apparent reason. Kim: Whether we are single or have a spouse and children, we do not want our social anxiety to interfere with bringing our families to church, gathering in others’ homes and attending camps. Some people are introverts and prefer smaller gatherings and quiet time at home. This is normal for their personality. Social anxiety is different than being an introvert, however. Social anxiety causes distress and can be disabling when a person leaves the familiar surroundings and comfort of their home. Why might depression or anxiety cause a believer to stay away from services? Troy: Depression and anxiety can make it difficult for a believer to attend services in different ways. Sara: A common symptom of depression and anxiety is to withdraw, or self-isolate. For those who are struggling mentally, it is not uncommon to even withdraw from close friends and family. Troy: An individual with depression often has low energy, low motivation, lack of joy, hopelessness, sadness, feelings of guilt and worthlessness. Kim: They may feel weighed down and have difficulty functioning. Everyday tasks may become immense and overwhelming. When our mood is at a low point and very few things bring joy, even the task of going to services may become a burden. Sara: For the depressed or anxious these events can be excruciating even when there is a desire to be there. Troy: Those who have anxiety feel nervous and on edge. Anxiety is an uncomfortable feeling that is often worse in social situations. For these individuals, being in crowded areas may trigger heightened levels of anxiety and a sense of fear or impending doom. To minimize their anxious feelings, many people will try to avoid crowds or large gatherings. It is important to seek treatment if mental illness is a barrier to attending services and having fellowship with the believers. How could mental health impact relationships and home life? Kim: As explained above, depression and anxiety can keep us from attending services, visiting with others and attending camps. In the home, if we suffer from depression or anxiety, small stressors can become big problems. The busyness of caring for a family may feel overwhelming and we can become impatient with our loved ones. Sara: Mental health massively impacts the quality of daily life and interaction with others. Poor sleep, high stress, emotional fatigue, apathy and irritability can influence a person’s speech and behavior towards others. Left untreated, the atmosphere of the home can become tense and feel less like a place of refuge. Kim: Our children and loved ones can suffer from our depression and anxiety, as it may manifest itself in intolerance and impatience. Troy: For example, a parent suffering from depression or anxiety may find it difficult to focus on or spend quality time with their children. They may be consumed with internal pain and anguish. Sara: Children sense angst keenly and might even blame themselves for a parent’s unhappiness. Troy: It can be difficult for a parent with mental illness to fulfill parental duties or put in effort to maintain a healthy relationship with their spouse. This can result in one person having to take on extra duties within the family, leading to frustration, hardship, and strained relationships. Kim: We can wonder if this is how life was meant to be and may question God’s plan for our future. What about postpartum depression? Kim: After having a baby, a mother may experience feelings and moods that are unfamiliar to her. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, irritability and increased anxiety may be common. Troy: Postpartum depression is often confused with the “baby blues” that many mothers experience as their bodies are going through hormonal changes after giving birth. The baby blues typically begins within a few days after delivery and resolves within a couple of weeks. Kim: Some mothers are on “high alert” and worry about the new baby’s safety and the safety of their other children so much, they start to lose the joy of caring for little children. Their focus may turn to the many tasks of raising little ones, and the wonder and joy that children bring to our lives may become lost. Sara: Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety can interfere with the critical early months of an infant’s development, having a lifelong impact. Troy: While anyone can experience postpartum depression, those with a history of depression prior or during pregnancy are at higher risk of having postpartum depression. Kim: In all, symptoms can become distressing and disabling. Sara: Fortunately, these conditions are highly treatable with therapy or medication. Do people know when they need help? Where should a believer go for help? Sara: Mental illness can manifest in different ways. Some people may overcompensate with a bright mood to hide emotional pain or they may seem dismissive and uninterested. Kim: Sometimes the person suffering from a mental illness is not aware that their symptoms are creating conflict and tension in the home and workplace. Troy: Most people know something is wrong because they feel bad, but they often do not know what it is or why they are feeling bad. As a result, too many people wait a long time, often years, before they seek treatment. Some may not realize how badly it is affecting them – but loved ones such as family and friends might notice. Kim: Sometimes the loved ones around the person suffering with mental illness are the ones to encourage the loved one to seek help. Troy: Depending on what a person is experiencing, there are different avenues to seeking care. Sara: A believer can always talk to a trusted loved one and others who have struggled in similar ways. In some cases, professional help is also recommended and there are a variety of treatment options. Kim: When we talk to someone who may be depressed, remind the loved one that God wants us to be happy and joyful, and if mental illness is taking away from our happiness, it would be good to seek professional help for our symptoms. Troy: If one is severely depressed and having thoughts of suicide, this is an urgent matter, and they should go to the emergency room. In less severe cases, people can go to their family doctor and explain what they are experiencing, and the condition can sometimes be treated by the family doctor, or it can be referred to a specialist. Kim: A believer can seek help by seeing their primary care provider or a mental health provider (psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner). These professionals will evaluate and refer as necessary. Sometimes bloodwork is ordered to rule out another medical condition that may affect our mood. A psychotherapist or psychologist may be part of a treatment plan. Often the quickest and most robust response to treatment is a combination of medication and talk therapy. When the feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness and anxiety are alleviated, patience and happiness may be restored. Professional help is worthwhile. Does mental health therapy conflict with faith? Kim: There is no conflict between faith and mental health care. Conversely, as mentioned, mental illness and a suffering mood can eat away at the joy of believing. Troy: Therapists are trained to respect people’s beliefs so it would be unethical for them to try to dissuade someone from believing. Sara: An ethical and professional therapist will not try to dissuade their client from believing. If an individual is experiencing some conflict with their spouse, for example, suggesting divorce would be considered unethical. Unfortunately, as in any profession, not all therapists heed best practice, and such an experience is possible. But there is still much to be gained from quality therapy: actual physiological changes in the brain can occur, and most people will benefit. Troy: Research indicates that religion is a protective factor against drug and alcohol abuse and suicide and has other mental health benefits. Kim: Sometimes unforgiven sin, perhaps tied to a trial we are struggling with can cause depression, anxiety or irritability – similar symptoms of a mental illness. A therapist may not understand that our mental anguish is due to struggles in our faith life. The therapist who is not believing does not understand how a pricked conscience can cause angst. When we are in battle with our conscience, our mood is not happy. The therapist’s role is to help alleviate negative thoughts and beliefs. The therapist may encourage a believer to avoid activities or people that are causing grief – and in doing this, the believer may hear: I need to stay away from church, stay away from people reminding me of my sin. When faith is most important, we know this type of advice is wrong. Troy: It is important to be open about our beliefs if something is said or recommended that is contrary to our faith. Sara: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is one example of a potentially useful approach for those who want to better manage their stressors, as it does not promote avoidance. Kim: Having talk therapy or psychotherapy may help us see what we are battling with internally, but a faith matter should be dealt with through confession with a believer so forgiveness, and peace and contentment can once again be ours. Why are so many people who are addicted to drugs also suffering from mental illness? What is the connection? Troy: This is a topic of much research. There are multiple factors involved in addiction and mental illness. Kim: When people struggle mentally, they may turn to alcohol, marijuana and other substances to alleviate and uplift their mood. The drugs and alcohol can cause a false sense of euphoria. Worries, anxieties and insecurities are forgotten for a brief time. Sara: Individuals who are addicted to drugs may be self-medicating a mental illness that may or may not have been diagnosed. Troy: This form of “self-medicating” is usually short lived and then the person finds themselves struggling with both mental illness and addiction. In other cases, people who are addicted to drugs can develop mental illness from the effects of the drug itself. Kim: The substance abuse may worsen their mood and mental illness over time, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. Sara: Most clients I’ve treated with substance use disorders also have a history of complex trauma. For many, the unmatched strength of illicit drugs on the suffering brain brings the greatest relief but is never sustainable. Troy: Both mental illness and addiction have a partial genetic basis in that certain genetic traits increase a person’s risk of mental illness or addiction. However, unlike mental illness, addiction is preventable in every case if a person does not use drugs or alcohol. What can I do if I think that a family member is depressed or overly anxious? Is there a good way to approach family members about seeking help? Troy: Approach them with love and let them know that depression or anxiety is common, and many suffer from it. Sara: If a family member is depressed or overly anxious, it might help to bring one’s own experience into light. Mental health is on a sliding scale, and all of us will experience some degree of struggle at different times in life. Troy: Mental illness is not something someone should be ashamed of or hide. People can seek treatment for mental illness just like someone with another illness can seek treatment. Kim: With love and patience, one can encourage someone struggling with their mood to seek professional help. You can help in finding a mental health professional or therapist for them, making the appointments for them or even accompanying them to the appointments. Remind your loved one that they do not have to struggle with their low mood or anxieties. Sara: Normalizing mental health care is critical. There is no shame in caring for your physical or mental health, and your loved ones will be better off for it. Troy: It is important to minimize the stigma that has long been associated with mental illness. Kim: And if you are the person struggling with mental angst, listen to your loved one’s concerns and entreaties. Seek professional help. Discussion Questions 1. How are a clean conscience and mental health intertwined? How can our faith support our mental health? 2. In what ways can a congregation support its members’ mental health? 3. Discuss appropriate ways to discuss a person’s mental health with the person in question. 4. Besides mental illness, what other obstacles could impact a believer’s faith life? 5. What portions of the Bible help us understand mental illness?

Janell Wuollet | The Shepherd's Voice October/November 2022 - Home and Family Article -- My gracious God! How I rejoice! You gave a robe so pure, acceptable in heaven’s home toward which I sojourn here. I cannot fully see its worth nor praise it perfectly; but when through faith I see this robe, it shines in purity. Song of Zion 289, verses 1 and 2 Songs can teach us a lot! Read aloud each verse of this beautiful song of Zion. The first two verses are printed on this page. Ask an adult or an older sibling to help you find the rest of the verses in the hymnal or in the Songbook app. The theme of grace appears throughout song 289. As we put the thoughts together, we get a picture of what grace is and does for us. First, already in verse one this song speaks of being given a “robe so pure.”The words compare the cleanliness and purity of the robe to the perfectness of God’s grace that He extends to us. The verse describes the purity and perfectness of the robe that covers us. The second verse relates that we with all our faults “cannot fully see [the robe’s] worth.” Said in another way, we cannot fully understand the depth of God’s grace. In the fifth verse, the song describes the familiar feeling of a believer that without this robe, or God’s grace, we could never make it to heaven due to sin.Finally, in the sixth verse, the song connects the robe to grace in a direct way. This song teaches us about how beautiful and perfect God’s grace is. It reassures us that we can make it home to heaven when we keep faith and a clean conscience. Things to Visit About: What is grace? What are some words we can use to describe grace? Why is grace important in our lives? How can we keep our conscience clean? How can we help another believer keep their conscience clean?

Matthew Keranen | The Shepherd's Voice December 2022/January 2023 - Home and Family Article -- Little children, sing a song; sing a joyous Christmas hymn. Unto us a Savior’s born, sent to save us from our sin. Father’s goodness do recall, also mother’s tender care; Jesus is unto His own always precious and more dear. In His arms our Savior still gathers children, guides them too; lovingly He blesses them. Dearest Jesus, bless us, too. Our fathers, mothers dear, our brothers, sisters, too, dearest Savior who is born, now bless all our souls anew. Song of Zion 52 W: Aatu Laitinen 1881/SLW 1916/rev. SRK 1961, 1976 E: SHZ 1975 In our home congregation we can see adults who are mothers and fathers. We can see boys and girls that are children of those mothers and fathers. But did you remember that adults are someone’s children? Even our elders have or have had a mother and a father. In God’s kingdom, we are all members of one family, the family of God. This is our congregation. Song of Zion 52 reminds us that Jesus cares for us in our congregation just like mothers and fathers care for their families at home. Verse three of that song tells us that our Savior, who is Jesus, gathers all His children into His arms. Jesus lives in heaven, but He still holds us and cares for us through His Holy Spirit. Look at the words of song 52 and find the verses that tell how Jesus cares for us! At Christmastime we remember that Jesus was born. Do you see the word Savior in this song? It is mentioned twice. Jesus is our Savior; He saved us from sin by dying on the cross. We are thankful God sent His Son to save us, and we long for Jesus to come again and take us to heaven. Some people pass away from this life as elders, and others may pass away as a tiny child. One such child is Eliana Joy, the precious infant daughter of Shari and Justin Byman. Shari shares that it is comforting to know that their baby is safe in the arms of Jesus. Eliana will never have to suffer any trials or sadness on earth. A special song that was sung when Eliana died is song of Zion 448. You can look at the words of that song in your songbook. Those words also tell how children are cared for by God and Jesus, just like the words of our song 52. Song 52 encourages us all to sing a joyous Christmas hymn! This Christmastime, I hope you sing many Christmas songs with your family at home and with God’s family at church. When we sing, we can remember those dear ones who, like Eliana Joy, are already at the eternal Christmas in heaven! Things to Visit About: All believers are members of God’s family. What unites believers together? Song 52 encourages us to sing a joyous Christmas hymn. What is your favorite Christmas hymn? Why is it your favorite? Why do we sing hymns and songs of Zion? How does singing help us on our way to heaven?

Laura Laho | The Voice of Zion January 2023 - Home and Family Article -- To be a citizen in God’s kingdom is an immeasurable gift. As believers, we have a secure group of solid support, the congregation of God! At times it may feel that we are on this pathway to heaven alone. It may take a trial or significant happening in our lives to feel the support from our congregation and other believers. Let us remember that we are not alone in this endeavor and the abundant support of our fellow believers is closer than we often allow ourselves to receive! “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God” (Eph. 2:19). We can be comforted with these words written in the holy Scriptures, reassuring us that what we have in common through our mutual faith is more meaningful than whatever earthly differences we may experience. No matter our origins, our culture, language or appearance, we are walking alongside our escorts in the same household, journeying together towards our mutual destination, the shores of heaven! Family of Three Sarah Muhonen | The Voice of Zion January 2023 - Home and Family Article -- Being parents of an only child is somewhat uncommon in Zion, yet we are so thankful for our 5-year-old son Elliot! Like many couples, we were hopeful as newlyweds that God would bless us with children. Yet due to health issues, we were somewhat prepared that it might not happen. We were blessed with our first and only child after almost seven years of marriage. In our parenting journey, there have been times when I, Sarah, have felt I’m not really a mom, since my role seems quite different from moms of large families or moms with multiple young kids and growing families. I’m thankful I have been able to share this struggle with others, and it no longer troubles me like it did. Often, a simple shift in perspective or visiting with others can brighten the difficult moments. Amid these various stages it has been a blessing to be involved in church work, such as music and camps, which help us feel connected with believers in all ages and stages of life. We appreciate noticing and learning things in Elliot’s development and life. As he gets older, we enjoy playing games, disc golf and family time together. It’s a joy to observe his interest, his skills and his developing friendships. Even one child makes us parents, and it is nice to visit with other families of all sizes. We can learn from others’ experiences and receive advice for situations we encounter. It may seem that with one child, the parents would have more time to themselves. However juggling the housework, careers and other duties with meeting Elliot’s needs is often challenging. Finding a good balance in life is an ongoing endeavor. In a world that values individuality and control over such things as family size and number of children, it is a comfort to be able to trust God in this matter. He allots our portion, according to His will. Children are a gift from God. They remind us of the simplicity of life, and they teach us so much. They need our love and care to feel safe and secure in this world. Our own poor qualities can sometimes keep us from seeing our children as they are and from understanding their developmental needs. We may unknowingly expect more than the child is capable of. A child’s development is not always linear, which can cause us parents to reconsider our expectations. For those with children, parenting is one of their most important roles. Despite our weaknesses, God gives us the experiences and resources we need. In parenting as in all areas of life, we are faulty and it’s important to recognize when actions are inappropriate and when there is need to apologize to our child. The gospel is so important in daily life! Asking for and preaching the gospel helps renew our relationship, and it can comfort our child when he is sad, remorseful or acting out. We marvel at the peace that comes from the preached gospel, even at such a young age. Through challenges and joys, this gift of parenthood and a child has blessed our life in countless ways. We are so thankful to be part of God’s family just as we are, a family of three. We often pray that someday Elliot could have siblings. But whatever God wills, whether our family is large or small, we can trust we and Elliot will be given the escorts we need in God’s house, amidst brothers and sisters in faith. The Most Important Family Susan Kiviahde | The Voice of Zion January 2023 - Home and Family Article -- God’s family is the most important family in my life. Of course, my husband, children, parents and siblings are also important, and if this family is also a part of God’s Family – that is a wonderful blessing. Once, I had to choose which family was the most important. This happened during the heresy of 1973. Yet it wasn’t my decision. By the grace of God, the true kingdom of God was revealed to me. It was a time of many questions, and also a time of seeking the truth, so along with many others, I also had to study the Bible to find answers to the many doctrinal questions. For example, one of the controversial questions was “sins unto death,” whether committing name sins caused one to fall into unbelief. But when a dear speaker brother attended haps one evening and read from the Bible, “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” (James 1:15). I had to believe that certain sins may bring unbelief with them. I also attended several meetings where it was apparent that there were two groups. The voice of the Holy Spirit was heard as a loving call to repentance to those that were straying, and the strange voice showed anger and bitterness toward that call. As my temporal family was straying and trying to pull me along, one of the Bible passages that spoke to me was Jesus’ words: “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Matt. 10:37). I knew that I needed to stay with the believers no matter what my family did. When God revealed to me the true kingdom of God, my inward battle of confusion was lifted, and I felt peace and happiness. I attended the Cokato meeting and again saw the difference in the two groups. So when the believers walked out of the Cokato church, I had to follow, as I knew that the Holy Spirit was leaving. Later, I found truth in the words of Jesus, “And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life” (Matt. 19:29). After this difficult time, I moved to Finland where I met my husband. I have been blessed with a large family and a wonderful life amid the family of God. Discussion Questions 1. What aspects of family life come to mind when you think of the family of God? 2. Describe a time when you felt “secure in the family of God” (SHZ 226). 3. Explain how God’s family can help during times of spiritual unrest. 4. How does a spirit of heresy impact God’s family? 5. What story in the Bible reminds you of the importance of unity in God’s family?