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The Voice of Zion January 2026 - Home and Family Articles -- In every believing heart and home, life in faith is learned not only from sermons and Sunday School lessons, but through the quiet, ordinary rhythms of family life. Parents teach and guide; adolescents test boundaries while learning to step into adulthood; siblings – especially the older ones – shape one another through example. These three articles by writers from the Seattle, Wash., congregation explore how God works within these everyday relationships. From establishing a “church within the home,” to gently guiding teens, to recognizing the influence of older siblings, each writer points to the same experience: faith is nurtured in love, forgiveness, and the shared gospel that softens hearts and binds families together. Together, these writings form a portrait of faith shared across the family system: Parents, through marriage, prayer, Scripture, instruction, and forgiveness Teens, through guided independence and faith conversations Older siblings, through example, patience, and daily choices All contribute to a home where faith is lived, taught, and shared – imperfectly but sustained by the Spirit. Our Calling – and God’s Work As parents, siblings, and caregivers, we teach, guide, pray, and set boundaries because God has called us to this work. Yet Scripture reminds us that faith and growth are God’s gifts, not our achievements. St. Paul writes, “I planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (1 Cor. 3:6,7). This frees us from believing that everything depends on our strength or skill. We carry out our duties in love, trusting the Holy Spirit to work when and how He wills. Luther comforts parents in the Catechism with the truth that “we cannot by our own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ… but the Holy Spirit has called us by the Gospel.” The same Spirit who calls us also calls our children. So we keep doing what we are called to do – imperfectly, yet in faith – trusting that our labor in the Lord is not in vain, and also not dependent solely on us. This is a deep comfort to those of us who know our own weaknesses, limits, and failings so well. Our role: faithfully nurture. God’s role: create and sustain faith. This brings deep peace: we walk in our calling, and God Himself tends the heart. The Church within Our Home Sara Westerinen “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20). This verse of the Bible came to mind when I heard the phrase “the church within our house.” Being blessed with my husband Bruce began our shared home congregation three years ago. It is something special indeed to be able to talk and share everything – the good and the hard. The joys and sorrows are both multiplied, but we carry the loads together, and the burdens that are hard to bear are eased. The gospel makes marriage so beautiful. God is always with us in our own little congregation, and His Spirit also teaches through us now as parents. Since becoming a mother, I have realized how easy it is to get caught up in the minutiae of motherhood and forget what is most important – where to draw strength, and also to remember thankfulness when things are good. I often find myself whispering prayers to God when my day is tough and I struggle with worries about health and prosperity. I think that contentment and thankfulness are a huge part of the church within our home. Song of Zion 374, verse 3 says, “Contentment, Lord, I find in Thee; my heart in blessed peace can be. In all the woe and pain I bear, Thou art my helper – Thou art there.” I would liken contentment to peacefulness, and as such, it brings great joy and a happy home. The gift of living faith is exactly that – a gift. We can teach our children to learn about and praise our Heavenly Father through His Word in the Bible as well as the hymns that we sing. We pray that our children would always remain in faith and be tenderhearted. Singing is truly the simplest form of worship, and it gives so much peace. We have been blessed with a wide variety of beautiful songs in our hymnal. God has also given us His guidance, instruction, comfort, and loving rebuke throughout the Bible. In Deuteronomy 6:7 it says, “And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” We have a duty to our children to teach and guide them in God’s kingdom. God is a God of love, grace, mercy, truth, and forgiveness. Jesus suffered and died on the cross and arose victorious for us and our sins so that we never need to die in unbelief. His love for all humankind is unending, and God sent Him to save us. We plant seeds of living faith in our sweet babies by teaching them about our Creator, our Savior, and the preaching of the forgiveness of sins. We plant, and God gives the increase. We teach our children that we have freedom from our sins. We all fall into temptation, yet we can have freedom from our failings and be given the strength to continue on our way to Heaven. When troubles come, we are instructed to teach our loved ones about right and wrong. God’s grace allows hearts to change. May God instill a desire to follow His Word and hunger for the Gospel. Watching Mom and Dad exchange the message gives peace to the family and teaches our children through example. Ending the day with the gospel creates the softest pillow for us all to sleep on. May we always depend on God the way our babies depend on us.  Adolescents Need Parental Guidance Joy Huotari  What does “adolescent” mean? The Oxford Languages Dictionary states that an adolescent is “a young person in the process of developing from a child to an adult.” According to the National Institutes of Health, this spans from puberty to the mid-twenties. It is important for adolescents to be allowed a level of independence and given the opportunity to both succeed and fail in their efforts. However, this can be confusing and difficult to navigate alone. As parents, it is our Christian duty to give guidance through these years. The Sacrament of Baptism exhorts parents: “Rear your children in love and truth in God’s Kingdom; carry them in your prayers that they would be protected as children of God their entire lifetime. Remember also that the source of power for your own faith-life, as well as for the care and rearing of your children, is in that gospel.” The gospel comforts both parent and child. The Bible instructs, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4, NIV). This is a reminder to guide gently and lovingly. As believing parents, the best we can do is raise our children in faith – bringing them to church, Sunday School, and keeping our home Zion a haven of love, forgiveness, and clear instruction. We can prayerfully continue the work of planting the seeds of faith firmly within our children’s hearts while remembering that God gives the increase, even as they continue the road to adulthood. “O Shepherd, guide our children with gentle hands of love; and keep our loved ones near You, protect them from above” (Song of Zion 428, verse 4). As a mother of grown children as well as adolescents, I can say I have at times been faulty – harsh, watchful, controlling, and conversely, wearily lenient. I have been a weak parent who has needed to hear the gospel repeatedly. The forgiveness of sins is something we never outgrow, no matter what age! This forgiveness daily restores us and allows us to keep parenting in hope. The ABCs of faith do not end when our children are little. Adolescence opens a whole new chapter of life with complex questions and a testing of boundaries once easily accepted by our little ones. “When can I get my own cell phone? Why do I need to be home by 10 o’clock? What’s wrong with this skirt? It is not too short! Why do I need to go to haps when none of my friends are going?” And so on. It is humbling to recognize that as our children grow and their independence reaches new levels, we cannot prevent them from making bad choices and mistakes. But we can control how we respond to these moments. Do we create an environment that welcomes open conversation in our home? Do our children feel the consequences for “coming clean” are too severe? Are we approachable as parents who also sin and humbly need to have sins washed away? Are we quick to assume the worst of our teens? Or do we swing to the opposite extreme and feel, “OUR kids surely would never do something like that?” Perhaps you, along with me, have experienced times of much worry for your teens – wanting so badly to guide and instruct in the right ways, even suffering sleepless nights and tearful days. When our fears become bigger than our faith, it is a comfort to be reminded that “So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase” (1 Cor. 3:7). This promise frees us from believing everything solely depends on us.   A Visit with My Adult Son Having experienced and matured beyond the adolescent years, how did you feel about being parented as a teen? I definitely thought some of the rules and guidance were too much at times. I didn’t always understand why things had to be a certain way or why there was so much focus on doing the “right” thing. At the time, it felt like it limited my freedom. Did you feel the instruction and guidance at the time was too much, unappreciated, or overbearing? Honestly, all the above. It’s difficult as a teen to look forward when immediately surrounded by so much change and worldly influence. I saw it as overbearing at the time, but looking back, I realize it came from love and a desire to protect me and keep me grounded in faith. Now in retrospect, how have those feelings changed? They’ve changed completely. As I’ve grown older, I see that the structure and morals you instilled gave me direction when life got confusing. It’s that foundation that’s helped me make good choices and stay steady through challenges. Being a father yourself now, what do you feel is important guidance for your own children as they grow into adolescence? Now that I’m a dad, I see how important it is to give my kids the same kind of grounding – teaching them faith, morals, and respect for others. I want to guide them with love but also give them room to learn and grow. The goal isn’t to control them, but to help them build a strong enough foundation that they can go out and experience the world with confidence, carrying those values with them and knowing the difference between right and wrong.   The Role of an Older Sibling Claire Niemela, age 14 “Stop!” the high-pitched voice of my younger sister tears through the house, reaching my ears as she continues, “Claire doesn’t like it when you do that!” I sigh, closing my eyes. It sounds like someone didn’t get the exact shade of crayon they wanted. While it can be annoying, moments like this remind me what an impact I have on my siblings as the oldest. It’s both a compliment and a reminder that my actions and words mean a lot. Being the oldest of a family of nine (or any number!) can be hard. The responsibility placed upon a person in that position is generally large and can be demanding. And while it may not seem like my mom or dad sees all I am doing, it helps them out in ways I can’t always imagine. I may not be thanked for every little job I do, but there are times when my parents take the time to tell me how helpful it is to have me there. Many times in my life, when I’ve been told to do a job or watch the kids, I’ve grumbled and unenthusiastically gone off to do it while the younger ones watch. While I don’t realize it at the time, my actions shape what my younger siblings do in a similar situation. Watching a younger kid grumble about having to do a job – and feeling annoyed that they won’t just simply listen – is normal now, but a lot of times I have to stop and think about what I was doing at their age. And no, it isn’t okay to not listen to Mom or Dad, kids, but I do need to be more thoughtful about the ways to get the kids to listen and do their job in less than forty-eight hours. Just the other day, while I was speaking to my younger sister about getting her job done, she told me, “You were like this at my age.” And while I would like to deny this, I can’t…because she’s right. Most people at that age don’t like to listen, especially if they see an older sibling doing the same. Even now, while I try to do my jobs without complaint, sometimes I feel myself beginning to grumble when I’m called down to do dishes right in the middle of a book. Alongside this, when my parents see me or another child doing a job or task without complaint, this is noted, and eventually it can lead to them giving me more freedom. I know that when my mom is faced with a disobedient child, her first instinct is to discipline them and give them more jobs to complete. However, when she sees a kid repeatedly do jobs well and without complaint, she is more inclined to reward them with something like a small treat or thanks. And when I, as the oldest child, am rude or do not listen, my parents see me differently and are therefore stricter on me, which reduces my freedoms. Another impact I think about more often now as I get older is the respect my younger siblings have for me. Often, I find myself angry and yelling at whoever is doing something that annoys me, and the impacts of that anger are soon shown when whoever was the target of my yelling is less likely to listen because their respect for me has dwindled in the face of my anger. But when I keep my anger in and speak in a gentler way, explaining what needs to be done and how to do it, that kid is more likely to respond positively because they aren’t as defensive. And even further on in life, that child may be more likely to come to me when needing help because they can trust that I won’t just blow up at them. So, while it may not seem like that big of a deal to me when I do something that isn’t exactly nice or necessary, it really is. My actions make a significant impact on how my parents and siblings see me as a person, and those actions can influence how others act in similar situations. Being the oldest can be hard, but seeing the impact I can have on my siblings and parents is a reward that many don’t have the opportunity to see.  Discussion questions What does “the church within our home” mean to you, and how have you seen faith lived out in ordinary daily moments? How do parents, older siblings, and even young children influence the spiritual and emotional tone of a home through their example – both in strengths and in struggles? The Baptismal Covenant calls parents to rear their children in love and truth. How does this calling take shape in different seasons of childhood and adolescence, and what support does the gospel give for this work? Adolescence brings new freedoms and questions. What kinds of guidance seem most helpful during this stage, and how can parents offer it in a way that builds trust rather than tension? Many homes try to balance structure with independence. What approaches have helped maintain that balance in your family or experience, and what tends to disrupt it? The writers spoke about “planting seeds of faith.” When have you noticed moments – whether quickly or years later – when those seeds seemed to grow, and what does this suggest about God’s timing and the Spirit’s work? Forgiveness exchanged within the home – between parents, siblings, or across generations – can be powerful. How does witnessing this shape a child’s or teen’s understanding of God’s grace? Scripture reminds us that “God gives the increase.” How does this promise bring comfort when we feel our limits as parents, siblings, or caregivers trying to nurture faith?

Walt Lampi  |  The Voice of Zion January 2026 - The Sabbath Word 4 Article --  Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! People of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” – Isaiah 30:18–21, NIV Isaiah was a prophet during the reigns of four kings of Judah: Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah. His ministry began around 740 BC, the year Uzziah died, and lasted through the reigns of the others. Isaiah’s relationship with King Hezekiah was especially important, as he served as his top advisor. The text was written during a siege of Jerusalem, and its message of hope contrasts with the earlier part of the chapter, which declares woe unto those who have fallen away. Chapter 30 is part of the Woe Oracles (Chapters 28–33), declarations of divine judgment and lamentation that often begin with the word “woe” and warn individuals or nations for their wrongdoing and defiance of God’s commandments. It was a time of fear for the people of Jerusalem and Judah, marked by political unrest. The Assyrians, known as the first major world power, terrorized the ancient Near East through a brutal campaign of conquest. The Assyrian king Sennacherib’s invasion of Judah in 701 BC occurred because Hezekiah joined an anti-Assyrian coalition with Egypt. A Cry to God for Help During great distress, the future becomes uncertain, especially when war threatens from a powerful neighbor. Israel’s history is filled with warfare, and such uncertainty exposes human fragility and our lack of trust in God. Undoubtedly, all the inhabitants of Jerusalem lived in fear during the siege. Among them were believers who also doubted that God is always in control. Their weak faith needed Isaiah’s encouraging words. Throughout history, believers have faced similar desperate situations – war, famine, and pandemics. Feelings of fear, hopelessness, and helplessness have overwhelmed both hearts and minds. When no immediate solution is available, individuals and even entire nations cry out to God for help. A gracious God hears the prayers and cries of His people and responds in His time. He desires His children to bring Him all their cares and promises to hear them as a loving father hears his children. The passage calls blessed those who patiently wait in faith for God’s help. Even in national or global crises, God has often used distress to draw people to His kingdom, leading them to repentance and forgiveness. He has kindled living faith and hope for eternal life in their hearts. Bread of Adversity and the Water of Affliction Isaiah uses the metaphor “bread of adversity and water of affliction” to describe the severe situation in Jerusalem. The bread of adversity is sometimes compared to the rations given to a prisoner. Isaiah recognized that God permitted the siege and the suffering that all inhabitants – believers and unbelievers – experienced. Its purpose was to soften unbelieving hearts and to test the faith of His children. Death and destruction brought by warfare near one’s own home stretch the limits of faith. Doubts may arise about whether God exists or why He allows such calamities to fall on His own children. Our country has not experienced warfare on its soil since the Civil War, but threats of war still trouble Europe, the Middle East, and other regions where believers live. Times of warfare are allowed by God but are caused by Satan (Rev. 20:7,8). Jesus taught that wars and rumors of wars signal the last days, yet we are not to be alarmed (Matt. 24:6,7). This Is the Way, Walk in It Times of distress create doubt and uncertainty about what to do or where to turn. Isaiah reassured the people that in their moment of greatest need, teachers would suddenly appear and guide them, showing them the path. The Good Shepherd’s voice is sometimes a guiding voice leading from the front, and sometimes a tending voice from behind, ensuring that none stray to the left or right of the path. God reveals the way to heaven from His kingdom – through His Spirit and through His servants – who teach, “This is the way; walk in it.”

The Voice of Zion January 2026 - The Book of Books -- The Bible is unlike any other book. While libraries contain countless volumes written by human minds, the Bible is God’s own Word to His people. It is a collection of many writings from different times and places, yet it speaks with one voice. The apostle Paul reminded Timothy that all Scripture is God-breathed. This means it is not only human words but the living Word of God, inspired by His Spirit. It teaches, rebukes, corrects and trains us so that we may live as God’s children. From the very beginning, God intended that His Word would be our guide and comfort. For generations it has shaped the lives of believers, from children learning simple verses to elders drawing strength from familiar passages. The Bible does not merely tell us about God; the Bible is more than information. It is God’s Word that points us to Christ, strengthens faith, and guides us in life. It strengthens and affirms faith in our hearts and shows us His plan of salvation in Christ Jesus. In 2026, we will present various aspects of this book. This is where our journey begins: with the Word itself. The Bible is the foundation for all that follows in the Book of Books. As we move from promises to creation, law, prophecy, psalms, and wisdom, and finally to Christ and the hope of eternity, we will see how the entire story is bound together by this enduring Word.   What is the Bible? The Bible is one book made up of many.  It contains 66 writings: 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament.  Written over about 1,500 years by more than 40 human authors, it is inspired by God’s Spirit and tells one unified story: salvation through Christ.

Jim Jurmu  |  The Voice of Zion January 2026 - Editorial -- In a world where success is often measured by likes, titles, money and recognition, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Yet God’s Word calls us to a higher standard: faithfulness to Him. In Colossians 3, we are called to let every task we undertake become an act of love toward God. Apostle Paul reminds us that our purpose is not found in who notices our work, but in for whom we do it. Every task – every responsibility, every small act of obedience – becomes sacred when done for the Lord. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” The believer’s life is not divided between “sacred” and “secular.” Every action, every job, every moment can glorify God when done with sincerity and dedication. The labor of our hands is right when it springs from a heart devoted to Him. Even ordinary tasks – washing dishes, caring for children, helping a neighbor, or showing up faithfully at work or school – are significant when offered as service to the Lord. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” The world craves attention and praise, but God delights in quiet faithfulness. Jesus warned, “Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them.” God values faithfulness more than fame. He sees the unseen efforts, the quiet sacrifices, and the steadfast hearts that labor in love. Paul encourages us, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Every good thing we have and every ability we use is a gift of God. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” God distributes His gifts throughout His congregation, and with those gifts we serve one another. When we serve “as unto the Lord,” we use the gifts He has given us and shift our focus from pleasing ourselves or others to serving Christ Himself. Paul writes, “With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men.” This truth frees us from resentment and comparison. We serve with joy because we serve Christ. Whether the world applauds or overlooks us, we can serve with gladness, knowing our labor is for the Lord, whose reward is eternal. Our efforts may go unnoticed by others, but they are never unnoticed by God. Every act of obedience, every honest day’s work, every service done in love is seen by Him. “Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Whatever your task – whether at home, in the classroom, among your neighbors, on the job, or in the church – do it heartily, as unto the Lord. “So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.” When we look honestly at our service, we also see how poor and incomplete it is. Yet even this drives us back to the Lord we serve. In the gospel we hear again that Christ has served us perfectly and forgives all our shortcomings. Resting in His grace, we can continue our work “as unto the Lord,” trusting that He blesses and increases what we offer in faith. Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as unto God.   Scripture References Colossians 3:23 – ”And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord” 1 Corinthians 10:31 – Do all to the glory of God. Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do…” Matthew 6:1 – Do not do good works to be seen of men. Galatians 6:9 – “Be not weary in well doing…” James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift comes from above. Ephesians 6:7 – Serve with good will, as unto the Lord. Colossians 3:24 – The Lord will reward those who serve Christ. Luke 17:10 – “We are unprofitable servants…we have done our duty.”

Arvin Pirness  |  The Voice of Zion January 2026 - News & Notes -- As a New Year begins, we often pause to look back and remember the events and blessings of the past year. We also look ahead, making plans and preparations for the work that lies before us. Reflecting on the year behind us, it is heart-warming to see the support and generosity of believers in aiding the work of God’s kingdom. Without this support, our efforts would fall short of the needs. Looking forward, we also wonder what plans God is preparing for us. We see growing needs at our camp centers and the possibility of expanding facilities to regionally support camp work. In all of this, we prayerfully ask for God’s continued guidance and blessing, trusting that He will provide what is needed for the work of His kingdom. Updates on LLC Activities Publications You now have in your hands a reformatted Voice of Zion.  The new format contains a similar amount of content, but now in a 40-page magazine instead of a 20-page tabloid format. We hope you find these changes nice and functional and that they enhance your reading experience.  As a reminder, beginning this year the Easter Messenger  (March) and Christmas in Zion  (December) will no longer be separate seasonal magazines alongside the Voice of Zion.  Instead, each of these publications will serve as the Voice of Zion issue for its respective month. A new music book for guitar, Hymns Ascending – Songs and Hymns of Zion for Classical Guitar,  is available on the website and possibly in your congregation book store. It is our hope that many will experience joy in playing and singing songs of Zion from this book.  Facilities We will be looking to fill core staff positions at camp centers for the 2026 season. If you’re interested in spending the summer at camp, watch for more information soon. Camp enrollment begins this month and takes place in four stages: – January 12–16:  Confirmation enrollment open for geographical areas – January 19:  Confirmation enrollment opens for all participants – January 26:  Pre-Confirmation enrollment opens – February 2:  Enrollment opens for all remaining camps To enroll, visit llchurch.org/camps and select “Enroll in Camp.”   Global Mission Work Mission trips have already resumed after the Christmas hiatus. There are plans for 32 trips in 2026, which will involve over 60 speakers from North America, Finland, Sweden and various African countries. If God allows, trips will be made to India and possibly Pakistan during this year. Additionally, there are increasing local activities where God’s children gather throughout the year to hear His Word and to receive support and encouragement in faith. Weekly WhatsApp sermons are sent to numerous locations in Africa, and a weekly online service is arranged for believers in Ecuador. Remember this work – and all the work of God’s kingdom – in your prayers. Pastoral We are looking forward to the LLC Winter Services in Phoenix, Ariz., which will be held in February this year rather than March, as in the past six years. The dates for these services are February 19–22, 2026. As we begin a new year, much planning is already underway for scheduling services and events for the following year, 2027. We thank God for giving many willing hearts to serve in many capacities in supporting the work of His kingdom.

Lynnae Ylioja  |  The Shepherd’s Voice  December 2025/January 2026 - Home and Family Article –   Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial – James 1:12 (NIV) Blessed is the man that endureth temptation – James 1:12 (KJV)   When you read this Bible verse in two different versions, you may notice different words being used. One version uses the word   trial and the other uses the word temptation. The Bible was written in other languages long ago, so when it is translated into English, people choose words that help us understand the meaning. In this verse, both words describe hard times that test our faith – things that happen to us and times when we feel pulled to do wrong.   We as children of God sometimes face trials and temptations. Trials  can be something like being sick, or when someone we love passes away. Temptations  are when we really want to do something that we know we shouldn’t do. But even if we fall into temptations, we can ask for forgiveness.   God allows trials in our life to make our faith stronger. Even in the middle of these situations, we can trust that God will protect us. We can ask our parents, siblings, or friends for forgiveness if we have done wrong or when we feel down. The gospel provides us strength to continue among trials. Through every trial and temptation, God stays close to us.   Things to visit about: 1.     Tell about a time when you faced a trial or temptation and God helped you. 2.     What are some ways we can stay close to God when life feels hard?

The Voice of Zion December 2025 - Home and Family Articles --  Music shapes our lives in ways words alone cannot. A melody can carry memories, comfort the weary heart, or awaken gratitude and praise. In homes, cars, choirs, and sanctuaries, believers turn to song as a gift from God – whether in moments of joy or sorrow. Our Songs and Hymns of Zion become prayers on our lips and sermons that travel with us wherever we go.  At Christmastime especially, music gathers us. Children sing with bright voices. Choirs rehearse with anticipation. Families pause to remember the story of a Savior who came to earth. As we listen, sing, and choose the music that fills our homes, we also ask what helps us stay close to the gospel and to peace. May these writings by believers from the Williston, N.D., congregation encourage conversation and reflection – and above all, thanksgiving to our heavenly Father, who gives us songs for the journey. What Christmas Music Do We Listen To?  Blaine and Lydia Simonson  Christmas is an important event in a believer’s life of faith. As in many other parts of Christian life, music is a large part of Christmas. While there are many Christmas songs in the songs and hymns of Zion that are good to listen to, many other Christmas songs and folk tunes are produced outside of the church. Some of this music is not suitable for a believer to listen to, and it is usually quite evident to the believing conscience when this is the case.  If the composition of the music has a worldly feeling to it, using fast-paced melodies, drums, and creating restlessness or an urge to move to the music, then it is something to avoid. This is also the case when the music has lyrics that are about the joys of the world. Conversely if the music creates a peaceful feeling in the heart, and the lyrics are about the birth of Christ, the message of Christmas, and the glory of God, then this is something that is good to listen to.  There are lots of renditions by various artists of songs which appear in the songs and hymns of Zion that would fit in the first category. Although the words they sing are the same as the believers sing in church, the way the song is arranged may create a restless feeling. Other songs are produced for the glory of the artist, to show off their talent and creativity. Still others focus on themes of self-indulgence or lust. Although they may carry the label of a Christmas song, they often have little or nothing to do with the Christmas message. These are all types of songs that a believer should avoid listening to.  In the world’s Christmas music, the focus often shifts to things only loosely related to Christ – whether it is the season of winter, the feelings of goodwill and love, or even Santa Claus. Songs like this have become the core of American culture’s Christmas music. Quite often, there is nothing inherently wrong with these songs. They may be simple and pleasant to hear. However, even these songs pose a danger to a believer. The risk is that they replace the true message of Christmas with a more secular one. Even where the theme is Christmas love and joy, Christ’s birth – the fulfillment of God’s promise – is missing. While the songs may not be bad, they could create a distance between a believer and the teachings of Christ by shifting the focus of Christmas in the believer’s mind.  While many songs produced in the world are the kind a believer should avoid listening to, there are also those that are fine. A believer should be careful about selecting music. Music is a gift from God but is also a very effective tool of the devil. One place we can always be sure of a safe refuge is in the music produced by the church. The reason that Christmas is celebrated is because of the birth of Jesus Christ, and that should be the main focus of the songs we sing and hear.   Music Is a Gift from God   Travis and Rebecca Rintamaki  It is a cold, dark evening in Grenora, but inside the house all is warm and bright. The scent of Christmas Eve Dinner lingers. Our family gathers in the living room around the Christmas tree and sing. With the familiar melody and words of song of Zion 42 come feelings of festivity, as well as gratitude that God gave His only Son so we could inherit eternal life.  It is a hot, sunny morning in Ishpeming, and the thankful words to song of Zion 344 swell in the crowded church. It thanks God for His love and mercy for us, sinful and full of hope of heaven. We are bidding farewell to our dear Granny with her favorite song. She has reached her heavenly home, and verse four expresses that gratitude for “peace and life eternally.”  Music, especially in the form of our Songs and Hymns of Zion, is an integral part of a believer’s life. We sing at services, special occasions, and haps gatherings. We listen to music in our homes and cars. Thanks to technology, we are never out of reach of the familiar tunes and comforting words from the songbook. We are able to turn to these in times of trial, joy, and uncertainty; they are mini-sermons and prayers. The words to these songs, given by God, may help us find words that we may have been unable to form ourselves. The melodies lend additional beauty to the words.  In song, we are able to thank and praise God for abundant blessings or ask for relief amid heavy trial and burden. These songs are a gift from God; we may tend to take them for granted but we can remind ourselves to be very grateful for them.  Here in Williston, Rebecca and I are involved in music in our congregation. We are both on the music committee, I am an organist, Rebecca directs our choir, and I accompany. It is a good, healthy way to use our gifts to serve our congregation and God’s kingdom. Choir evenings are a highlight of our week. We gather at church to sing songs. We have time for fellowship with our believing friends who have a common interest in music. Perhaps we are even lucky enough to have some freshly baked sourdough for a snack, courtesy of a choir member. After months of practice, we perform for the congregation, typically on festive occasions.  At Christmas, we have a choir evening, which will be a fundraiser with a meal for the first time this year. It makes for a festive start to a festive time of year. We dedicated our new church building this past summer and the choir sang several songs during the dedication program, thanking God for the blessing of our own church building. As King David, who was a musician, wrote, we “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord” and “come before His presence with singing” (Psalm 100:1,2).  A gift from God and a fundamental part of a believer’s life, music is important. In it, the weary find strength, the seeking find solace, and the troubled find peace. Our Songs and Hymns of Zion are truly from God – let us turn to them in all occasions. They will aid us in our journey here, helping keep the goal of heaven and our thankfulness to God at the forefront of our minds. “Thank You, God, that Thou hast shown me my dear Savior’s glorious face, dost fulfill the hope of heaven to this sinner saved by grace” (Song of Zion 344:5).   My Favorite Christmas Song  Coordinated by Lydia G. Simonson  What is your favorite Christmas song and why? Do you play any musical instruments, or would you love to learn to play an instrument?  How does singing in our new church sound or make you feel?  Devin Bratt, age 10  My favorite Christmas song to sing during the Sunday school program is song 11, “A Candle We are Lighting Now.” It’s pretty and peaceful. I know how to play the piano and I take lessons with my grandma Susan. I like to play the piano anywhere I can find one. We got a new piano in our church and it is so fun to play. The singing in our new church is peaceful. It sounds like we are close to heaven.   Malou Lampi, age 8  “O Little Star of Christmas,” the melody of the song is really pretty! I also like “A candle we are lighting now.” I play the violin, I started when I was 7 but didn’t start lessons until I was 8. It would be fun to learn piano too – I play by ear right now. I sang in Christmas choir last year, it was really fun to sing in our new church!   Nora Rintamaki, age 8  My favorite Christmas songs are “O Little Star of Christmas” and “Away in a Manger.” I love the words of the song. I just started piano lessons a month ago, and I love it. Someday, I want to learn the guitar. I love how loud the music is in our church and I like all the songs that we sing in Sunday school.   What Is Worldly Music?  Peter Huhta  Worldly music is generally seen as being secular, meaning it has no religious or spiritual basis or intent. Most classical, folk, and patriotic music would be considered secular, along with many genres we may hear on the radio or other music platforms we use. There are so many genres of secular or “worldly” music available today that it would be difficult to say that worldly music is simply good or bad. We understand that it can be both. Apostle Paul writes in 1 Cor. 10:23 (NIV), “I have the right to do anything, you say – but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything – but not everything is constructive.” Paul also writes in verse 31, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”  These instructions from God’s Word help us discern what music is appropriate for believers to listen to or to play. A few questions to ask could be, “What is the intent of the music? What is the content – the lyrics and message the composer or writer is trying to convey?” “Does this music worship God, or promote good patriotic or cultural concepts? Or does it promote selfish, sensual, or immoral themes?” God’s Word instructs us in Phil. 4:8 (NIV), “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” This verse applies to the music we listen to, just as it applies to our work, entertainment, how we treat each other, and all of our daily activities.  With these questions in mind, we can be confident that the music produced and used in God’s Kingdom is good for us. I’ve recently noticed several new songs have been added to the LLC digital songbook. The songs and hymns we use have gone through a careful review to ensure that the message reflects the true nature of God’s Word and that the melodies are appropriate.  Music can be a powerful influence on how we feel and behave, so other questions to ask are, “What is the effect of the music that I listen to and play? Do I feel uplifted in mind and spirit? Does it appeal to my flesh? If so, is it the lyrics, or the music – or both? Does this music encourage me in faith and life, or does it lead me toward sin and darkness?” We want to choose music that is uplifting and edifying in both lyrics and composition. There are many examples of worship or patriotic music in the world that may have appropriate lyrics, but the composition mainly appeals to the flesh. There are also many examples where the composition is good, but the lyrics are not. In either case, neither is edifying and, at best, can be confusing.  We want to be selective in what music we choose to play and listen to, especially when our families or friends are present. We want to be a good example in this area, especially for our children. It is good to ask other believers what music they listen to and hear their thoughts on the music we choose.  I personally listen to music every day – while driving, working, or relaxing at home. It is important to consider what I am listening to, as I have found that music has a profound influence on how I feel. Some music can make me feel restless or agitated, while other music can be uplifting, energizing, or calming. We all make these choices in music every day. God has given each of us a conscience, and we are instructed to listen to it. The choices we make in the music we consume will reflect what is in our hearts. We pray that God will guide and teach us in this matter, just as He does in all other matters.  Discussion Points  Share a memory connected to a particular song or hymn of Zion. Why does that moment stand out?   When do you most naturally turn to music? (e.g., joy, stress, quiet time, travel)   What helps you recognize when a song feeds your faith versus when it draws your heart toward the world?   Christmas and other seasonal music surrounds us everywhere we go. How do you discern what supports the true message of Christmas?   God gives each believer gifts – including musical ones. How have you or someone you know been able to serve with the gift of music?

Arvin Pirness  |  The Voice of Zion December 2025 - News & Notes --  “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – Luke 2:14  The peace of Christmas is not found in earthly calm, but in the heavenly gift of faith. The child of God rejoices in the peace that comes when hearts rest in Christ, not in the things of this world. I pray that this peace can bring you comfort and joy this Christmas time.  Updates on LLC Activities Global Mission Work  The work to support mission trips and other facets of global mission work is done on a daily basis between the mission department staff and respective colleagues at the SRK office, The opportunity for Adrian Pirness to spend a week at the SRK office in early November was beneficial to discuss the day-today work and a broader look at the global mission work.  Brothers and sisters in faith in the countries we travel to pause as we do during the Christmas season. They have shared their greeting with you in this issue of the Voice of Zion.  We have begun the initial planning for mission trips that will happen in 2027. Plans for 2026 include about 30 mission trips including a ministers’ camp in Gambia. Various countries will also host conformation schools in 2026.  Pastoral  A ministers’ webinar was held on November 6 and included a presentation titled “Difficult Conversations in Our Homes and Families.” This was also the topic presented at the September Home and Family webinar. It is good to gather and visit about these timely topics, not only as servants of the Word or as committee members but also in our home congregations.  The 2026 Lectionary is available to view or download on the LLC Website. llchurch.org/lectionary   Publications  Three new LLC publications were introduced at the October board meeting:   – Time for Words  – a YA novel by Heli Jurmu, edited by Sandra Pylvainen; this marks the first long-form work of fiction published by LLC.  – Hymnal Supplement – 13 newly released hymns added to the Songbook app, including translations from Finnish and German and several original lyrics and melodies by North American believers.  – A Morn of Song  – a youth congregational-singing album recorded at the Elk River, Minn., church, featuring 16 well-loved songs accompanied by volunteer musicians. Content Creator Workshops have been held this fall at Stony Lake Camp and the Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church. Winter and Summer Services broadcasts have become a fixture of service events and many depend on these broadcasts to participate in the event. As this work grows, it becomes increasingly important to incorporate the workflows into the Publication Department’s regular work. The Broadcast subcommittee is developing a formal structure for this added development.  Facilities  As this year ends, we are looking forward to the 2026 camp season. Youth in the Southwest can look forward to joining the Finnish Language Camp group for Language Camp at Kipa, July 7–13. Nine confirmation camps are being planned for 2026 – including the first to be held in Colorado. An International Music Camp will be held in 2026 at Hasscib Lake Camp.  We will be looking to fill core staff positions at all our camps for the 2026 season. Watch for postings in the new year.  Camp enrollment will begin in January and take place in four stages:   – January 12–16:  Confirmation enrollment open for geographical areas  – January 19:  Confirmation enrollment opens for all participants   – January 26:  Pre-Confirmation enrollment opens   – February 2:  Enrollment opens for all remaining camps  To enroll, visit llchurch.org/camps and select “Enroll in Camp.”  Even as we prepare for 2026, planning for the 2027 camp season is already underway. Work on next year’s schedules and staffing will begin in the first months of the year.  LLC Home and Family Committee  A work group has been assembled by the LLC Home and Family Committee to develop materials to support teaching on sexuality and associated topics for our homes. The work thus far has been to define the scope and goals of this work. The primary goal is to have age- appropriate printable materials, drawing upon secular resources, and discussing these matters in the light of God’s Word. Daren Hendrickson is chairing this work group ( darenhendrickson@gmail.com ). In Closing  As this year draws to a close, we pause with gratitude for the many ways God has blessed His kingdom’s work. Thank you for your prayers, participation, contributions, and support – each has been a needed gift.   We look ahead to the coming year trusting that, whatever it brings, God will continue to guide and provide. May His peace rest in our hearts and homes. We wish you God’s rich blessings in the new year!

Jim Frantti  |  The Voice of Zion December 2025 - The Sabbath Word 4 Article --  Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. But Zion said, The Lord hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me. – Isaiah 49:13–16  Isaiah lived during the 8th century B.C. in Jerusalem. He heard the call of God asking, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Isaiah answered, “Here am I, send me” (Isa. 6:8). The book of Isaiah contains sobering warnings of Israel’s rebellion against God and of sin, along with warnings about the coming judgement. Yet Isaiah’s writings also contain a message of promise and hope.  The Promise of a Savior  The difficult prophecies about God’s judgement are balanced by the promise of redemption and the sending of a Messiah. In the book of Isaiah, we find a message about the birth of the Savior. Isaiah wrote, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign, Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (7:14).  Isaiah’s writings also contain this promise, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (9:6).  A Suffering Savior  The book of Isaiah also contains a message about the suffering of the promised Savior for the sins of the people. “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isa. 53:5,6).  The Fulfillment of the Promise  When Jesus began His public ministry, He was in the synagogue in Nazareth, where He had been raised. There He read from the book of Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18,19; Isa. 61:1,2).  A Call to the Family of God  As in Isaiah’s time, God yet calls to the people in our time. While His Word contains clear warnings and chastisement about sin, it also promises God’s grace and forgiveness to the penitent. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matt. 7:7). In Isaiah’s time, people wondered if God had forsaken them. Isaiah’s message was, “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee” (Isa. 49:15).  God calls into His family. His call is a personal calling, “But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine” (Isa. 43:1). When a person heeds this call of grace, he or she is adopted into God’s family, a holy family. “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named” (Eph. 3:14,15).  When we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we too have reason to bow our knees in thanks to our heavenly Father that we can be a part of this family. In His care, we can fully trust. We are graven upon the palms of His hands. The walls of His kingdom are ever before Him. Here in His kingdom, God daily and richly forgives all believers. In the power of the name and blood of Jesus, sins are forgiven, and this gospel gives strength to the journey that ends one day with eternal Christmas in heaven.

The Voice of Zion December 2025 - Editorial --  Christmas brings people together who may not sit around the same table any other time of year. Some relatives share our faith; others do not. We may sit across from someone who once believed and no longer does, or someone carrying wounds we cannot see. Quiet tension may rise in moments like these. We feel pressure to say something – to defend what we believe, to “speak truth,” or to rescue a drifting soul in one conversation.  Is that what love looks like?  Scripture describes Jesus as “full of grace and truth.” In Him, grace and truth are not two poles we must balance between. They are perfectly united – truth that never loses compassion, and grace that never abandons truth. Paul writes, “Speak the truth in love.” Not speak the truth and hope love follows. Not speak the truth instead of love. Speak truth in love. Love is the tone; truth is the content; Christ is the example.  At Christmas, we remember how God delivered truth – not as a speech, but as a child. Jesus entered the world quietly, vulnerably, in a manger. He invited rather than argued. He asked questions, listened, shared meals, and showed truth through presence.  Sometimes we assume that if we don’t say enough, we’re not being faithful. Yet love is not weakness – love is evidence. Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Kindness does not dilute truth. It creates space for truth to be received.  We may be tempted to speak words to ease our own anxiety – to feel like we’ve done our part. But faith does not grow by pressure; “faith cometh by hearing.” Often the most powerful testimony is not a lecture but a life that quietly bears Christ’s fruit: patience when others are short, forgiveness when others are harsh, kindness when others protect themselves. Light does not argue with darkness. It simply shines.  Our light shines through the lives we live and the things we hold dear. Jesus says the greatest commandments are first to love God and second to love our neighbor. Everyone we meet – believing or not – is made by God and needs His love just as we do. We may see only what’s on the surface, but Jesus reminds us that faith takes root in ways unseen. In His parable of the growing seed, the seed sprouts and grows “though he does not know how.” We cannot see into another’s heart. We cannot judge whether the soil is ready. We are simply asked to sow seeds.  We see on mission fields how God opens hearts to receive the gospel – entirely His work. The same grace is at work in our own homes, where love sows seeds in quiet ways. At this time of year, including hymns, scripture readings, and simple traditions such as meal songs or Christmas recitations allows gatherings to center gently around the true meaning of the season. Even in mixed company, these shared moments of faith can speak truth in love – often reaching hearts more deeply than words alone. The music and message of Christmas can quietly touch unbelieving loved ones and open the way for meaningful conversation.  Anything loving or good that others see in us is only by God’s grace. When we meet loved ones who are distant from faith, we don’t need speeches or a list of wrongs. If a conversation opens, a simple invitation may be enough – like Philip said to Nathanael: “Come and see.”  We are not responsible to change a heart.  Only God can do that.  We are responsible to love. And when the Spirit opens a moment, He gives words.  So when conversation flows around your holiday table and the urge rises to “say something bold,” remember: the Christ-child came full of grace and truth – truth held within grace. May our voices, our faces, and our actions reflect Him. Sometimes the most Christlike thing we can do at Christmas is soften our words, open our arms, and make room.  May the Christ-child fill your home with peace this holiday season. May His light shine on you and through you in every gathering.   Scripture References:  John 1:14  – Jesus came “full of grace and truth.”  Ephesians 4:15  – “Speak the truth in love.”  John 13:35  – “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”  Romans 10:17  – “Faith cometh by hearing…”  Matthew 22:36-40  – The greatest commandments: love God; love your neighbor.  Mark 4:27  – The parable of the growing seed: it grows “though he does not know how.”  John 1:46  – Philip says to Nathanael, “Come and see.”