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Rick Nevala | The Voice of Zion April 2025 - Round the Table Article -- I sometimes see a fellow traveler of the way sitting alone at services and my heart goes out to them. I wonder what brought them there to sit alone. I seldom find strength to go talk to them. Imagine arriving at services and no one notices you; no one speaks to you. I admit that as a pastor in a large congregation I have sometimes felt loneliness. My circle of immediate relatives and close friends is small. Sunday morning after services I hear people openly say, “I am going here,” or “I am doing this.” Large social circles provide them with many opportunities to attend festive occasions and events. Most times, exclusion is unintentional. Social structures facilitate our needs. Large family trees connect people from birth. There is no need to join a group – it is automatic. Family social structures help meet needs that arise in celebrating life events, and for some it’s easy to fill a house through family ties. I find that I have to wait for an invitation, or make an effort to include myself.  In congregation life, we can review organizational structure and policies to discover who is included and who is excluded. We can compare lists of duties with the member list. A pastor can list all the elders and then visit them. What about when new members join the congregation? How are they noticed? Do they know how to become a member? How do we welcome them? Some may be overlooked if they don’t have a helpful relative to usher them in. What does the Bible say about this? Hebrews 10:24,25 encourages us to support one another in love and to gather together regularly. Scripture does not encourage us to believe on our own, but to gather to protect our mutual faith in the fellowship of believers. To an individual, exclusion may feel intentional. One’s nature may be such that it is hard for them to approach others without a clear reason. Some may be timid by nature and may require support to find the bravery to connect and join groups. Those who already belong to the group can authentically include others by coming to where the newcomer is, greeting them and treating them like they belong. Authenticity is about being real; there is no single perfect way to reach out and include another. We can do away with exclusion when we, as Paul exhorts, “outdo one another in showing honor [to the other]” (Rom. 12:10, ESV). In some cases, exclusion is intentional. This can dramatically affect those who are excluded. If we walk by without acknowledging another, it emphasizes to the ignored one that they are alone. Jesus explains how the good Samaritan stopped to help. The pastor, the learned, the connected person who knew everyone passed by. It feels good to include others. Paul encouraged the Galatian believers, “Let us not grow weary of doing good” (Gal. 6:9, ESV). He reminded them that in well-doing there is a blessing. Both the giver and receiver benefit. God’s kingdom benefits when all are included in the work and all walk in unity of Spirit and love. We can all take a part in this.   Discussion Questions: Tell about a time you joined a new group. How did you feel? What helped?  How can we make others feel included at church or in school? Who are the people that are marginalized today, in our lives and in society at large? What can we learn from God’s Word, such as the parable of the Good Samaritan, about noticing and including others?

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion April 2025 - News & Notes Article --  Jesus said, “It is finished.” Then He bowed His head, and temporal life ended (John 19:30). In that moment a promise was fulfilled and atonement for sin was completely paid. Today, by faith, the child of God rejoices in the eternal hope promised to one who is believing on the work finished by the Lord Jesus. As we gather in services and with family this Easter season, marvel at this matter, that our hope rests on eternal matters and the rest awaiting in heaven one day. Update on LLC Activities  Pastoral A new ministers’ workshop, held at the LLC office in February, welcomed 15 attendees. We experienced the blessing of gathering to discuss the responsibilities and duties that have been entrusted by the congregations with this calling.  Minister’s camp is held at Stony Lake Camp in early April. This annual event is a camp where servants of the Word gather to visit around timely topics, receive encouragement and enjoy fellowship with one another. The scheduling of 2026 services and events continues. The LLC core event scheduling is completed and we are currently in a phase of scheduling congregation special services, rotation services, and services in locations where believers live but do not have a formal congregation. Education The first education-focused video was distributed to congregational Sunday School contacts at the beginning of March. The topic of the video is “Introduction to the Bible.” Those who’ve viewed the video have provided helpful and positive feedback and support production of additional teaching videos. Facilities The Stony Lake Camp Board has completed west dorm renovations. The renovations included updated bunks, replaced old flooring and cleaning and sealing interior wall surfaces. Planning is ongoing for a pavilion concept at Silver Springs. The purpose of a pavilion is to support summer services, regional service events, workshops, seminars and other day-use events.  Mission Work The April mission trip to Togo and Benin will be the first time services have been arranged in Benin. In previous years, there have been believers from Benin who have traveled to Togo for services.  Communications The broadcast studio at the recent Phoenix Winter Services was full of activity all weekend. Many hours of pre-recorded programs combined with in-studio live interviews complemented the focus of the broadcast, the services of God’s children. We appreciate the many local believers who worked in the studio in a variety of roles and supported this area of work.  Pre-recorded content that was broadcast at services will soon be available on Hearken,  our publications app, so you can listen in to what you may have missed during the services weekend. We will hold an online Content Creators Workshop on April 26. Contact us for more information if the details on this workshop have not reached you otherwise. It is time for young people who are interested in studying at an opisto in Finland to apply for an LLC opisto scholarship! Applications can be found on the LLC website and are due May 15. We are currently accepting applications for the 2026–27 opisto year. The season of graduations and summer weddings is soon upon us once again. Consider gift subscriptions to LLC periodicals or our Hearken  app as you select gifts to give in honor of these milestones.

Aaron Anderson | The Voice of Zion April 2025 - The Sabbath Word 2 Article -- Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God. –  Isaiah 43:10–12 The English word witness comes from the Old English witnes,  meaning “attestation of fact, event, or statement.” It is related to the verb wit,  meaning “to know.” In many languages, the term for witness includes elements of seeing, knowing, and testifying. The theme for this Sunday’s Old Testament text points to God’s chosen people as being witnesses of the resurrected Christ, which was yet to come and is described in Isaiah’s prophetical book. In our text the children of Israel were once again being gently called by our loving Father. They had found themselves in a dark place. They were under Babylonian captivity. God had allowed them to be conquered and taken away from their beloved homeland, because of their disobedience and unfaithfulness. This was a wake-up call to many of the children of Israel. We recall how the Psalmist described their feelings during this time in Psalms 137, verses 1–4: “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?”  The unbelieving people in Babylon worshipped many different gods. God reminded the children of Israel through the prophet how He is the only one, true God. Only He has the power to save. This was in stark contrast to the powerless idols of the Babylonians. Despite the Israelites’ sins and even unbelief, God still loved them. Through the prophet, He called them back to Him. In this calling He gave them a duty to be witnesses of Him.  Today, Christian believers are charged with the same duty as the children of Israel so many years ago. While we have not witnessed the miracles of the Old Testament nor have we seen Jesus in the flesh, through faith and by the power of the Holy Spirit we have witnessed His resurrection. How have we witnessed His resurrection? It is through the heavenly love of our Father that we have experienced when a fellow believer has preached unto us the freeing words of the gospel. As Juhani Uljas writes in “The Treasure Hidden in a Field,” “When the spear of the Roman soldier pierced the side of Christ, the holy atoning blood that flowed from it extinguished God’s anger and fulfilled the demands of His righteousness. Christ’s blood did not flow to dry on the rock of Golgotha and merely be a historic fact within our reach. God preserved its sermon of atonement, so that the purity and forgiveness that it provides would be therein offered to the penitent sinner” (LLC, 2003). When we believe our sins forgiven our light can shine brightly into this ever-darkening world. The unbelievers around us notice and might even ask of us: what is different about you? When we are witnesses of our resurrected Lord and Savior, it is important that our memory remains clear on that of which we are called to testify. This is done by “holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience” (1 Tim. 3:9). Our conscience can only remain pure through believing the preached gospel. Luther emphasized the proclaiming of the gospel as a means of sustaining faith. He wrote, “Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times.” The confidence of the gospel equips believers to boldly testify of what God has done in our lives - how He has redeemed us - just as Israel was called to testify of God’s grace so many years ago. The power of witnessing, or our testimony, lies not in us but in the message we proclaim. The gospel itself, through the power of the Holy Spirit, carries the power to awaken faith; it is not the words by themselves but God’s Spirit that works through the proclamation of forgiveness. God will work through our testimony, no matter how weak or inadequate we may feel. Jesus teaches us in Luke 12, verses 11 and 12, “And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.” The message in our text reminds us that it is God who saves, declares, and shows—we are simply called to testify of His works. Dear child of God, be of good cheer! We are encouraged to trust in God’s power and faithfulness as we bear witness to His grace in our lives. Let us join the Psalmist in declaring, “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord” (Ps. 118:17). As witnesses of the resurrected Christ through faith, we have the joyful privilege of sharing with the world the hope and salvation found in Him.

Last year, the LLC Periodicals Survey was conducted to better understand how believers in North America use LLC periodicals and publications, to gain insight into the types of content believers especially value, and to identify areas of opportunity for improving LLC publications. The survey results were analyzed and presented to the LLC Print Publications Committee last spring. The survey responses generally indicate that believers find meaningful content for their walk of faith in LLC publications, and most express strong support for LLC publications. Respondents especially appreciate personal stories about the experiences of individual believers. They also value faith-based articles and devotional content, and pieces about interesting historical events and people. Survey responses indicated areas of opportunity as well. These include resolving technical issues with the Hearken  app; improving LLC website navigation; alleviating the perception of political bias around certain issues; continuing to emphasize print publications while rolling out a more varied array of digital experiences and content; and increasing the amount of content centered around personal stories and experiences of believers. The free-form text responses from the survey were also analyzed. Respondents express gratitude and appreciation towards the people who work on producing and editing periodicals, and thank LLC staff for their hard work and dedication in putting them together.  Some respondents provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. For example, one respondent mentioned that they would like to see more articles on mental health, marriage issues, and raising kids, and how these tie into being a believer. Another suggested that there should be more focus on youth and that articles should be easier to comprehend. Yet another expressed appreciation for the variety of periodicals and the different ways they can access the materials. Overall, respondents seem to value the work put into the periodicals and appreciate the efforts of the people who produce and edit them. Many suggestions were also received, which include: fix glitches in the Hearken  app to improve user experience; provide more personal stories and experiences of believers; avoid political or controversial topics; provide more content for youth, especially articles written by young believers. The LLC Communications Department has already acted on many of the suggestions and insights gathered from the survey. For example, in recent months much work has been done in cooperation with the Hearken  app developer to make usability improvements, particularly in the audio player function on Android devices. We have also incorporated more content about believers’ experiences in both print and audio format. Last year we had a fiction writing contest with a call for long fiction for young adults; the books that will result from the manuscript selected from those submitted are just one of the types of content intended for youth. We welcome your feedback on all LLC publications. Be in touch! Meanwhile, we continue to do the work set before us with the prayer that God will give the increase.   LLC Print Publications Committee LLC Board representatives: Sam Roiko (chairman), Petri Hotari, Steve Laiho, Lauri Nevala, Marv Wittenberg Committee members: Keith Kariniemi, Kevin Moll, Mary Ann Wikman, Aaron Wuollet,  LLC Staff: Ruth DeLacey, Annette Johnson, Matthew Keranen, Shanna Pirness, Sandra Pylvainen A Note on Survey Methodology KPI (Key Performance Indicator):  A metric used to evaluate success. In this survey, the KPI is based on the NPS. NPS (Net Promoter Score):  A Customer Experience industry standard metric that measures a respondent’s likelihood to recommend a product or service to others. It is statistically tied to organizational effectiveness and performance across industries and time. The overall LLC Periodicals NPS score is 50, which appears to be equivalent to ‘good’ or ‘satisfactory’ for this population. However, more data gathered across a broader time frame is required to understand any trends for this score. The survey included driver questions,  which are designed to uncover the main factors influencing the KPI. Correlation analysis indicates that the factor most closely correlated to overall NPS is satisfaction with publications content, with a correlation coefficient of about 0.65, indicating a positive relationship. The survey also asked about the ease of accessing publications, satisfaction with the design and layout of publications, and the usefulness of publications. However, these factors are not correlated to the KPI. The LLC Periodicals Survey employed a variety of questions using a 9-point scale (0–8), with an open-ended text box accompanying nearly every question. Invitations were open to all and allowed for the same individual to submit multiple responses, which complicates the data’s representativeness. The response volume suggests the data is sufficient to offer valuable insights that are directionally sound. However, the inherent bias of self-selection, where individuals with strong opinions—particularly negative ones—are more likely to respond, must be carefully considered. Despite the survey’s limitations, its results are considered a valuable “temperature check” of consumer sentiment. These results should not be viewed as a definitive assessment of all publications. Nonetheless, the data provides important insights into how individuals interact with LLC publications and what respondents prioritize. This information will continue to inform the development of LLC publications.

Elida Holmstrom | The Voice of Zion April 2025 - Home & Family Article -- In this article, members of small families from Saskatchewan congregations share their experiences—how family size shaped their upbringing, their sense of belonging in the congregation, and the blessings and challenges they encountered. Each family, regardless of size, comes to be as God wills. Good and gracious Lord, thank You for our home, for our family, and our loved ones, for the life which Thou hast given, all those dear to me, precious gifts from Thee. – SHZ 431:1 A family is a precious gift. Many believers in God’s kingdom grow up in and later raise large families. Many assume they will have a large family. However, what if God has other plans? What if you have no children or one child? Many questions may arise as we ponder small and large families. Tell about your family, childhood or current. Caroline Ylioja:  There are four in our family. We farmed and were part of the Dunblane congregation for many years. Our parents retired a few years ago and moved to Outlook. Although John and I have lived elsewhere since finishing high school, the flexibility of remote work has allowed us both to recently move to the Outlook area. We are lucky to be close enough to spend time together as a family. Twila Simonson:  Both Henry and I grew up in large families. We assumed when we first were married that we would be blessed with many children. After seven years of marriage God blessed us with one daughter. We felt great joy when she was born! We will celebrate our thirtieth wedding anniversary, and twenty-three years of having our precious Samantha in our lives. We live on a cattle farm outside Outlook. Leslie and Audrey Holmstrom:  There is a five year age gap between our first two children, and three years between our second and third children. This age difference fragmented the closeness during their childhood. Forgiveness is what drew us closer together as a family. If there wasn’t forgiveness, the fragmented relationship would still exist. Elida Holmstrom:  Growing up as the oldest daughter, I was the one who looked out for my brothers, since they were much younger. As we grew older the closeness grew, and now that we are adults the bond is great! David Holmstrom:  I grew up in a small family with two siblings. I was the second oldest. Now I am married with thirteen, soon to be fourteen, children. I can say I have experienced both small and large family life. How is your family different from other families in your congregation? Edward and Maria Ylioja:  Activities are different. In a large family, duties are spread out among many. In our family, Caroline helped with outside chores, and John helped inside due to his blindness. In smaller families, jobs may be more consistent. In our family, Maria tended to do more as help didn’t come as readily. John Ylioja:  There are less people around for activities. We have visited our neighbors through the years and had many visits with relatives. Friendships and bonds from childhood are strong, so visiting is easier. Caroline:  I guess ours is a small family, but, it seems that today believers belong to families and homes of all kinds. Some have many children with large extended families, some have a single parent, some have no children, or few children like ours. Some homes consist of one person. No matter what kind of home we come from, each of us has unique experiences, challenges and perspectives on life. Henry and Twila Simonson:  Being such a small family, we have been able to take many family vacations and spend a lot of time together. Samantha Simonson:  You could say that we are different from many believing families because I am an only child. However, we aren’t different in the ways that matter. I was raised in a believing home, where the gospel was the most important aspect in our family. Leslie and Audrey:  In a small family you don’t learn how to defend yourself among your peers. Elida:  In a larger family, it seems the children always have someone to visit and play with. They learn to compromise by working out differences between them. David:  All my close friends came from large families. At the time, I didn’t think too much about it being a barrier. I felt similar to others because I had extended family members, and we were so close. Jonathan Holmstrom:  It was different due to the age gap and not having as many siblings. In order to hang out and have fun with kids close to our age, we had to get permission to go to a friend’s house instead of playing at home with siblings. How has family size difference made you feel? Maria:  Large families seem to have companions at all times. All the relations in our area tend to visit each other more and exclusion happens. As families and extended families grow, so can the exclusion. People from smaller families can be forgotten. John:  I felt a little excluded at times, due to my disability, rather than left out otherwise. I never felt excluded at church and Sunday school, just more so because we lived in an isolated area in the country. Caroline:  When I was younger, it was easier to see the things we didn’t have, like enough siblings to play board games. I wanted younger siblings, but at the same time I was glad I didn’t have siblings wrecking my things. I enjoyed listening to adult conversations and not being told to “go play” and “be noisy elsewhere.” I think I learned at an early age to appreciate visiting with people of all ages. Samantha:  There have been times throughout my life when I have wished for siblings. For the most part, though, I feel like it hasn’t affected me much. God has blessed me with many, many cousins and close friends. I never felt very lonely growing up and I didn’t miss out on anything. I also have a close relationship with my parents, which is a huge blessing. I consider my parents to be my closest friends and my biggest support in my life of faith. Elida:  I tended to feel a bit excluded and defenseless in dealing and visiting with my peers. The assumption was sometimes made that we got everything we wanted, we were spoiled and wealthy. This couldn’t have been further from the truth. Our family had its struggles temporally and financially. David:  I didn’t feel as if we were missing anything. Looking back now, I would say we were very blessed. No chaos in the house, my own bedroom, quiet time whenever I wanted. When I needed a more lively atmosphere, over to my friends’ places I would go. Jonathan:  Sometimes I felt like an outcast, due to the larger families having their inside jokes. On the other hand, it was fun to hang out with different people and different personalities more often. I had to spread my visits, so one family wouldn’t get sick of me. What would you like other people to be aware of? Maria:  Be aware of those around you and check to see how they are doing. John:  Inclusion goes both ways. It would be good if members of larger families would be aware of those from a small family to include and welcome them to join their activities. In the same way, members from a small family should feel free to reach out to be included. Maria and John:  Believers with disabilities are a blessing. They are people like everyone else and we don’t have to be afraid of them. Also, not all disabilities are visible. Including everyone makes even those with hidden disabilities feel included. It also breeds tolerance and acceptance. We don’t want to make fun or ridicule them. Caroline:  The more we get to know each other as individuals, the more we can understand when and how others might need support on their journey of faith. We can receive this support from others as well. Sometimes a person who is not related to you but is a sister or brother in faith can be just as much or more of a support to you than biological family members. Making an effort to spend time with believers outside one’s biological family is rewarding and enriching and likely means a lot to those who don’t have a lot of family around. Samantha:  Include people who don’t have siblings or not many siblings and welcome them into your family, if you have the chance. I got to feel what it is like to have siblings as I was welcomed so warmly to share in my cousins’ lives. Elida:  It is important to be aware and try to include everyone. Don’t be quick to assume or judge. David:  Remember to include friends that are in smaller families and bring them in close. Jonathan:  Families need to remember to be inclusive and not shun the advances of others, regardless of family size, as you don’t know the struggles they are going through. How have you felt the congregation’s support and care? Maria:  When our kids were young, they were included in their peer groups at Sunday school, day circle and church. The availability of camps has given the opportunity to learn much, to share experiences, and to be uplifted and strengthened in faith. Our home congregation becomes our extended family, and we care for each other. Caroline:  People visited back and forth a lot when I was growing up. We would visit other families and families would come over for an afternoon or evening visit. Getting to know other families, both adults and children, made it feel more that I belonged at church too. Henry and Twila:  We have had support from friends and family in so many ways. Being included and remembered during special holidays and other times throughout the year has been a great blessing. We feel that when we don’t have a big family, it has been easier to help out others when they have been going through trials. Blessings and trials go with small families and large ones. Although there were times that we questioned why God didn’t give us even a few more children, we always come back to “Thy will be done!” Samantha:  I was included. I haven’t felt any different than someone in a large family, even though they may not relate to my personal situation. Elida:  Going to camp was always nice because there were many more people to visit with. Discussions reminded and encouraged me in faith. No matter our differences, we all have the Holy Spirit and the gospel belongs to all. David:  Dunblane congregation was small, very close, and loaded with relatives. With that environment, it didn’t seem that there were ever any gaps. I can see if you were a small family and members of a large congregation, how you might fall through the cracks more easily. Jonathan:  For the most part I felt welcome everywhere, in homes and at church. It was always a nice feeling, the warmth of the Holy Spirit wherever I went, knowing we are on the same journey, and I could turn to anyone for help in any way. As parents of a small family in God’s kingdom, what are some of the questions and concerns you may have had when raising your children? Edward and Maria:  As parents you don’t always know what you need or how to reach out and ask for help. We don’t always feel that we should or can ask for help. Henry and Twila:  As parents of a small family in God’s kingdom our greatest concern was that Samantha would have believing friends. She has cousins that have included her and loved her. She has almost a sibling bond with some. Leslie and Audrey:  The worry always was that they might deny faith. We hoped and prayed they would have close friends to confide in. Conclusion Families of all sizes experience seasons of trial and sorrow and seasons of joy and fulfilment. Everyone experiences times when support is needed and other times when they can offer support to others. Friendliness and awareness are very key things to remember in one’s own family and between families of all sizes. There are so many ways to reach out to others. No matter the size of our families, each one is known and cherished by God. He sees the joys and challenges of every home, whether bustling with many voices or quiet with only a few. In His eyes, no family is too small, no heart is overlooked, and no life is without purpose. His love surrounds us all. As His children, we can trust that He has placed us exactly where we belong, blessing us with what we need for our journey. In every home, the most precious gift we own is faith. Bless and shield us all, each and ev’ry home. Grant us escorts in Thy kingdom. Lord, we ask for guiding wisdom; may we always be in Thy unity. – SHZ 431:4   Discussion Questions: 1. How does family size impact the way responsibilities, chores, and relationships are structured within the home? 2. What challenges might individuals from small families face in congregational life, and how can congregations ensure that all feel included? 3. How does one’s family structure shape their experience of friendships and social connections? 4. What role does personal faith play in shaping your perspective on family size and in finding contentment in the blessings God has given? 5. How can individuals in any size family be more intentional about reaching out to those who may feel isolated or excluded?

Dean Simonson | 2025 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening – March 14 --   “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7 KJV)   This verse from 1 John speaks to us about the fellowship that we have among believers in God's Kingdom. First, it addresses the need to have one's sins forgiven so that one has the name of a child of God. (“If we walk in the light, as he is in the light”) We are unable to “walk in the light” on our own. We can only do so through the merits of our Lord Jesus. Having the name of a child of God, through believing our sins forgiven, we then enjoy the benefit of having “fellowship one with another.” This special fellowship that exists in God's kingdom is not found anywhere else in this world. We are continually renewed in faith through the power of the gospel. Traveling as a child of God in His kingdom, we enjoy the blessing of fellowship with our mutual travelers in faith to the end of our lives.   In God's kingdom, we often use the word fellowship in connection with the gatherings of God's children. In this presentation I will look at how fellowship is a gift from God, and therefore special to us, what fellowship means to a child of God, and how we want to keep this fellowship within God's kingdom and not join in fellowship with the world.   Defining fellowship In the beginning I felt it would be good to define the word “fellowship.” Fellowship can be characterized in several ways that relate to interaction between believers: −      companionship −      a friendly relationship −      an association of similar interests −      communion, as between members of the same church I think that all these definitions in some way illustrate the interactions we have as God's children in His congregation.   The gift of faith Most communities and groups of people are brought together through human efforts and needs – such things as common goals, interests, etc. God's congregation is a unique collection of people. We are ordinary people who have no outwardly special traits that set us apart from the people of our communities. What is different and unique is how we are united together. We are joined together through the Holy Spirit, which comes as a gift of faith. God has called us to be partakers of this gift. In his Large Catechism, Luther describes the congregation and the unity of spirit that exists there in this manner: “I believe that there is on earth a little flock or community of pure saints under one head, Christ. It is called together by the Holy Spirit in one faith, mind, and understanding. It possesses a variety of gifts, yet it is united in love without sect or schism. Of this community I also am a part and member, a participant and co-partner in all the blessings it possesses. I was brought to it by the Holy Spirit and incorporated into it through the fact that I have heard and still hear God's Word.”   We consider our membership in God's Kingdom in the same way that Luther did. We are not just joined together by common ancestry, culture, race or other outward markers that would indicate a natural bond. Above all, it is the love of God that has called us to be members of this kingdom. It is God who has awakened the conscience to sin and leads one to the fountains of grace where sins can be washed away in Jesus name and blood. Through the power of the Holy Spirit we are then able to understand that we can only be together with God if we have our sins forgiven. Joined together through the power of the gospel, we can enjoy fellowship through the Holy Spirit.   Fellowship in the Lord Jesus In his first letter to the Corinthians, apostle Paul wrote in this way: “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Cor. 1:9 KJV) This fellowship that he writes of here is where one is joined together with our Lord Jesus Christ.   This is a fellowship of communion with our Lord together with our brothers and sisters in faith. It is a common pathway leading to heaven where the traveler experiences many trials of faith. These trials which may cause doubt and can lead to sin, are shared with fellow travelers experiencing the same trials. In a presentation to the youth at Summer Services several years ago, our departed brother Dave Anderson stated it this way: “ God's Kingdom is made up of pardoned sinners. We share those things that are most important in life. We are united in that goal to reach Heaven's home. We care for one another as we travel this narrow road of life.”   Our entire journey of faith is built around fellowship in our Lord Jesus. We gather together around God's word which teaches and reminds us of His sacrificial work on the cross. There is the blessing message of the gospel which washes away all the filth of the journey in Jesus name and blood. Even in our daily life we know and feel the presence of our Lord.   The central activity in our faith life is gathering around the spoken word of God, most often at services, but also at smaller gatherings such as weddings, baptisms, graduations, milestone celebrations and so on. It is here that we look for the serving minister to preach about God's love for us, how He sent His Son to die for our sins. The Word warms our hearts and also reminds us that we need to care for sin. Many times we find that the word speaks directly to us of our own personal journey to Heaven. One does not find themselves alone before the condemning message of the Word because we feel ourselves to be in the presence of other sinners who feel likewise. We have felt the presence of our Lord Jesus. God's grace belongs to me! Each one of us feels the need to hear the words of the gospel - “Believe your sins forgiven in Jesus name and blood!”   There are times when we are able to feel especially close to our Lord Jesus, such as during the sacrament of Holy Communion. During this service the whole congregation joins together in remembering how Jesus died for our sins. When we eat the bread and drink the wine, we are reminded that this is the body and blood of our Lord and Savior. It has been given to us for the strengthening our faith. During this time, we can, and do, turn to our brother or sister in faith and ask for the gospel. This is a special time of fellowship, when the congregation is in unity under the pastoral care of our Lord Jesus.   The children of God experience fellowship with our Lord Jesus in our daily life as well. His presence can be felt when we are feeling low, when we feel alone, or when we are confronted with situations that are uncomfortable to us in our faith life. Together with these difficult times, there are also times when we experience joy and feelings of contentment. It is especially so, when we are able to accept that God is with us and blessing our life here on earth.   Fellowship in the Holy Spirit Being members in God's congregation is not meant to be a passive association with other believers. In an editorial in the 2020 Voice of Zion, fellowship is written of in this way: “Fellowship is not just belonging to a church as a member and participating in group activities. Rather, it is unity with God and His congregation. In other words, we don't want to only show up at Sunday services. The congregation is a living and active group of people. There are many activities that take place outside of our Sunday services: bible class and song services, weddings, and baptisms to name a few. I personally have been able to feel a special closeness with other believers when I have been asked to conduct weddings and baptisms, or when I have been asked to speak at a special event such as a graduation or a milestone birthday or anniversary. The congregation members joyfully gather to celebrate the occasion and share in the joy that other members are feeling.   In the same 2020 editorial it says: “The Holy Spirit does not direct us to isolate ourselves from church fellowship or to avoid children of God.” In the letter to the Hebrews, the writer warns in this way: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Heb. 10:25 KJV) Our faith-life is strengthened by frequently gathering with God's children. We need this fellowship with our brothers and sisters in faith.   We can also enjoy fellowship through serving. As it has been said, we are called to serve. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul writes: “...serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Gal. 5:13,14 NIV) I am sure that we have all experienced the joy of serving. There are many ways that we can do so. We may have duties in the congregation, we can serve at camps, we can help and visit those in need, etc. It is so often said by those who have served, that they feel they have been served much more and have received much more than they felt they contributed. Through serving we also enjoy fellowship with our brothers and sisters in faith.   This fellowship is also present and important when there is sadness and sorrow in the congregation. We reach out to those who are mourning the loss of a loved one, to those dealing with sickness and health issues, or to those who are struggling with the departure of a dear friend or family member into the darkness of unbelief. The loving care of the family of God reaches out to comfort and console those who are feeling sadness or grief. As the apostle writes in the letter to the Galatians, “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal. 6:2 KJV)   Fellowship is something that we wish to seek. God's children find many blessings in gathering together. Unfortunately, for some, this fellowship is not such an easy thing to take part in. There are some who, because of physical limitations or mental illness, or even the frailty of old age, are unable to gather together with God's children. It is well that we could remember those who are isolated in this way. Perhaps we can take time to go for a visit, or even a phone call. It can also happen, that because of life's circumstances, a person is prevented from being together with the children of God. I recall the example of an elderly woman whose husband was not a believer. He was not supportive of her going to church or gathering with believers in any way. She patiently lived in this isolation, but whenever she happened to meet believers, she would still confess her faith and ask for the gospel. When her husband passed away, she started coming to church and enjoying the fellowship with God's children. God protects people who travel in difficult situations.   The importance of fellowship Fellowship in God's kingdom has always played a critical role in the life of God's children. In the beginning of the Bible, God recognized man's need for companionship and He gave Adam a helpmate. Eve was not only meant to be the wife of Adam and a companion in his daily journey through life, but she was also his companion in faith. Their relationship allowed for them to share the journey of faith together, and to support each other in both times of joy and times of sadness.   The scriptures relate of former believers who were able to experience Christian fellowship and how they rejoiced of this. Prior to becoming king of Israel, David had a strong friendship with Jonathan that was enriched by their bond of faith. Jonathan helped to protect David from the anger of his father, King Saul. He also provided critical support to David in this dark hour: “And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God.” (1 Sam. 23:16 NIV) After the death of Jonathan David wrote: “I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women.” (2 Sam. 1:26 NIV) Here we see an example of a relationship that was bound by the love that our Lord Jesus taught: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” (John 13:34 KJV) We can only imagine the faith discussions that these two brothers must have had with each other!   The apostle Paul had a close relationship with the congregation in Philippi. He wrote to them from Rome where he was in prison. “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now” (Phil. 1:3-5 KJV) He speaks here of that fellowship that he had experienced when he was with them - “fellowship in the gospel.” Not only were they able to share about the work of spreading the gospel, but also the joy that came with this and rejoice in that they shared the common desire to reach Heaven.   In his letter to the Romans, the apostle reveals how he longed for the precious fellowship with that congregation as well. In the first chapter of Romans he writes: “For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.” (Rom. 1:11-12 KJV)   In our respective lives of faith we also know the same type of fellowship experienced by David and Jonathan and the apostle Paul with the congregations that he visited. We too have felt how we have been supported through visits with our brothers and sisters in faith. We have been strengthened in our faith. We need this closeness and fellowship. This can become especially clear when we have been separated from our family of God for extended periods of time. I recall a time in my life when I had attended a week-long course that related to my life work as a farmer. During this time I was away from my family and only had contact with other farmers. It was an enjoyable time for me to connect with others who were like-minded and doing similar work. After the course was finished, and before I drove home, I met up with a couple of believing men in that same city to visit over a cup of coffee. I remember vividly the joy that I felt when I met these brothers and greeted them with “God's Peace!” It was brought home to me how we cannot function alone in faith, but that we need the fellowship that we have in God's kingdom.   A sorrowful consequence of those who have drifted away from God's kingdom is how they no longer desire to join in the fellowship of God's children. This is often one of the first signs that we see when one no longer feels close to the believers. It has been something that I have noticed, especially with close ones who have left God's kingdom. The first troubling signs that I noticed were that they seemed to have other commitments or chose to be elsewhere when God's children were gathered at services or other events. We cannot remain on the way to Heaven if we only rely on our own strength and understanding. The writer to the Hebrews warns of the need to gather together and how important it is for our journey of faith: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Heb. 10:25 KJV)   The sacrament of fellowship Sometimes Christian fellowship has been referred to as the “sacrament of fellowship.” In an introduction to a congregation discussion titled “Soul Care and Confession”, Keijo Nissila wrote of it in this way: “In the hearing of God’s Word, each time we receive in some hidden way care for our soul. This happens when we pray and thank God, when we sing and when we hear God’s Word and meet other believers and exchange tidings on the way and journey. Services offer good opportunities for visiting, when hearts have warmed and opened in the hearing of God’s Word. Visiting has sometimes been called the sacrament of fellowship.” This does not place fellowship on the same level as the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion. These sacraments have been ordained by God to be good and necessary for believers to participate in for the strengthening of faith. It does, however, emphasize how important fellowship is to a believer in their journey of faith toward Heaven. Comparing fellowship to a sacrament shows that it has an important place in our lives. It would be good that we do not ignore fellowship with God's children.   Fellowship with the world As I am writing this presentation, I pause to take a phone call from a dear brother in faith. He asks me what I am up to and I reply that I am working on a presentation about fellowship. We visit for a while and our conversation turns to a time when he traveled in unbelief. He tells me that he has no desire to go back to the life of an unbeliever. He says how he is thankful that he no longer wishes to take part in those activities that at one time were so important to him. He has told me several times in previous visits how it feels good to be sitting in the church with the believers. We discuss how we have our friends and neighbors who we interact with on a day-to-day basis. They are decent people, and they hold a place of value in our lives. I bring up this verse from the 2nd letter to the Corinthians: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?” We both agree that there is a good reminder in these words - for us, and for all God's children.   The world that we live in is a very tempting place for a child of God. There is much about it that draws our interest towards it. It is a familiar battle where we are challenged daily by the three-fold enemy: our flesh, the devil and the sinful world. It is very easy to get drawn into the misplaced  happiness that exists where God's Word is not obeyed, and where there is no concern over sin. In the quote which we read from Corinthians the question is asked, “what communion hath light with darkness?” God's word teaches that it is dangerous to our faith if we have too close relations and interactions with unbelievers, especially if it keeps us away from those relations with other believers.   For one who may be faltering in their faith-life and attracted to the temptations of this life, it can become easy to make excuses for traveling in close association with those traveling in darkness. The lonely single person may seek companionship. Struggling and tired parents may consider birth control. A young person may be tempted to pursue higher achievements in sports. Work friends may seem to live more exciting lives in their leisure pursuits. No matter what sort of temptation is close to our flesh, if we allow the enemy of souls to convince us that it is a small matter, we can then easily be drawn away from God's Kingdom by it.   In my work life I sometimes encounter people who I find it easy to be with and visit with. We do not have the connection of faith, but we have common interests, especially through work. Often we will have similar philosophies about life. It is easy for me to want to keep this person in my circle of close friends. I find myself having these kinds of thoughts, that it would sure be wonderful if this person could share in this gift of faith. I have to remind myself that I can pray for this. God will lead a seeking one to His kingdom. Also, I have to remember that I have believing friends and family who share the same interests and philosophies of life as I have. I don't need to actively seek this interaction outside of God's kingdom.   It is good to be moderate in our relationships with people outside of God's kingdom. We need to keep a safe distance between us. We can have good and wholesome relations with them, but they are relations that are only beneficial for the matters of this life. If we seek out fellowship with our brothers and sisters in faith, we find support for the most important matter in our lives – our life of faith.   Fellowship in God's Kingdom is unique In my duties as a servant of God's word, I have had the opportunity to travel several times to serve in Ecuador. I have found that the small group of believers in that country experience faith in the same way as I do. They have their joys and their sorrows. Sometimes it's easy to travel on the way to heaven, other times the way is more difficult. I have had several discussions with believers in Ecuador about the way and the journey. We have needed to encourage each other and we have shared the gospel. I have enjoyed many visits with precious fellowship.   There is one instance that I recall from the first trip I made there. The brother that I was traveling with was eager to help the Ecuadorian believers find material that they could read and use in Bible class and Sunday school lessons. In one city, as we were doing some sight seeing, we came across a Lutheran church. We stopped to visit with the pastor of that church with the hope that perhaps they would have what we were looking for. Visiting with the pastor through our interpreter, we found out that this church held services in 3 different languages, one of them being English. As it was, the English-speaking pastor was away, but we were told that he would be preaching at the Sunday service the next day. We decided to go there for that service, as it was before our service and it would give us a chance to visit with this English-speaking pastor. After the service the next day we visited with the pastor but found that they didn't have any materials such as we were seeking. What got left in my memory was a very vivid impression of fellowship among believers. As I sat in the bench listening to the sermon of that Lutheran pastor, I felt very much out of place among the congregants. I was surrounded by English-speaking people, many who were from my own country and similar culture, but they did not believe the same as I did. After that service, we traveled to our own service site, held in the home of an Ecuadorian believer, and we had services there. Here I found myself in the midst of people who were of a different nationality and culture, people who I had only recently met, but I felt at home. I was in the midst of believers. It didn't matter if we were of a different nationality and spoke a different language.   This experience taught me that in God's Kingdom there are no barriers. I realized that the fellowship which we enjoy is uniquely tied to being a believer in God's Kingdom. This fellowship cannot be found outside of God's Kingdom.     Do we have time for fellowship? When I think of friendships that are written of in the Bible, I think of the relationship that Jesus had with his good friends, Mary, Martha and Lazarus. The Bible relates of a time when Jesus stopped at their house to visit with them. No doubt they were pleased to have Him stay with them and to serve Him. We are told how Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and visited with him. Martha, on the other hand, was more focused on serving – perhaps preparing a meal and making sure that everything was in order. Martha was feeling burdened by this and came to Jesus with her complaint: “Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.” Jesus reply to her was: “Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:40-42 KJV)   To me, this narrative makes several important points. Two matters that I wish to focus on are: the friendship that they had and they fellowship they shared. There was a deep friendship between Jesus, these women and their brother Lazarus. In another place in the Bible it tells us that “Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.” Jesus felt comfortable visiting in their home and they were likewise comfortable with him. They were happy to have him in their home, to serve him and to sit down and visit with him. Martha was even free enough to speak of the matter she was struggling with – her annoyance at her sister Mary. This friendship was made possible because both Mary and Martha believed that Jesus was their Lord and Savior.   An important part of their friendship was the fellowship that they also enjoyed. Because Jesus was their Lord, they could easily visit about matters of faith. I have often wondered what Jesus and Mary visited about while Martha was busy serving. I imagine that it would have been a visit, that for Mary would have been uplifting for her faith. The text implies that Mary would not have spoken so much as she was listening to Jesus: “... [she] sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.” She was enjoying the most perfect fellowship one could experience.   When Jesus gently admonished Martha about her focus on her temporal duties, he also reminded her what was most important. He pointed out to her how Mary had chosen “that good part”, or in another translation it says that she had “chosen what is better.” Mary had taken time to sit at the feet of Jesus and visit about faith.   A good question to ask ourselves is this: “Do we take time to sit at the feet of Jesus, like Mary did?” First, we could ask, what does it mean to sit at the feet of Jesus? It is simply this: that whenever we gather to hear God's Word, or when we visit about the way and the journey, we are, like Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus. Do we take time for this important fellowship? Is it important to attend Sunday services? Do we make a point of attending Bible class, or showing up for congregation meetings and discussions? Do we try to visit friends and other congregation members in their homes, or is seeing them at church “good enough?”   Fellowship is certainly something that “just happens” when we are an active congregation member, but it also requires effort on our part to make something more of it, to enrich it. I can recall many pleasant visits that I have had over the years, with elders when I was young, with young people now that I am an older member of our congregation, and visits with my peers throughout my life. I can also, with regret, recall times when I neglected opportunities to be with other believers or was too lazy to try arrange a visit with family or friends.   This story of Mary and Martha so clearly shows how we can become lost in our own personal pursuits in life. It also leaves us with precious instructions from our Lord Jesus as to where our primary focus in life should be.   Fellowship and technology It is good to pause and consider how the technology that is available and in use today affects God's children. God has blessed this world with advanced technology in so many ways that make our life simpler, ease physical burdens and that make our world a smaller place. We have seen how technology has allowed for the work of the gospel to spread to many places on the globe. People in far away lands are logging into the internet and discovering that there is a place where peace can be found for a troubled conscience. The Kingdom of Peace website has had a staggering number of visits to the various articles and videos that have been posted there.   In the North American Zion we have seen how God has used technology to bless us with more options for listening to His word and more convenience to do so. During the Covid lock downs we had online service events. It was during this time that the online evening devotions were started. Our new Hearken app gives us access to sermons, evening devotions and music albums. When we are away from our home congregations we can log in and listen to Sunday sermons and many other events that are regularly broadcast online. Families have realized great blessings when they are able to have face to face interactions over the internet with loved ones who live far away.   In many ways this technology has opened up new and convenient avenues for more interactions between God's children. Quick and simple messages can be shared through various apps. Chat groups can be arranged for more widespread communication among larger groups of people. It is very easy to take a few seconds and send someone a quick message – “How are you?” or “I am remembering you.”   The challenge that comes with technology is that it can take a hold in our life and push aside other priorities and values. I think that the ease of accessing services online can also be a danger in a person's life, that they would forsake the in-person gathering of God's children at services in favor of staying at home and listening. We need to be aware that the tendency of our flesh is to sin. It is easy to become complacent about the need to be watchful. We remember how Jesus warned: “And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” (Mark 13:37 KJV)   The blessing of fellowship In the Bible it is stated how the greatest gift is love. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (1Cor. 13:13 KJV) This charity, or love, is a blessing from God. Through faith we are able to understand that we receive many blessings from God. All the needs of this life have been provided. We have our families and our friends. We are members in the congregation of God's children. With this membership comes the fellowship that we share in God's congregation. When we think of fellowship in connection with God's love, we have to admit that it also is a great blessing.   It is good to pause and consider if we appreciate this matter. Ask yourself, “Has fellowship with God's congregation been a benefit in my life? Do I understand and appreciate how this fellowship has helped me in my faith life?” Like so much of our life of faith, we need to be conscious of what God gives to us and make an effort to appreciate it and allow it benefit in our lives. It can be easy to have that kind of an approach to life that we don't put much effort into getting out for church functions or visiting. We can make the excuse that it is easier to stay home and listen to services online rather than traveling to church for services. It's easy to make excuses that we are encroaching into other people's lives if we try to arrange a visit in their home. As with all good things that benefit us in our life of faith, the enemy of souls wants to take these precious interactions away from us. Even in these matters of attending services and visiting, we need to battle against our lazy and reluctant flesh as well as push away Satan with his lies.   As I come to the conclusion of this presentation, I am reminded of the words that the apostle Paul ended his second letter to the Corinthians with: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Cor. 13:14 NIV) Paul had written this letter to a congregation that was dear to him. He had visited with them several times and shared of the way and the journey. Not only had they shared in the pleasant visits about faith but there were difficult conversations about the struggles in the congregation. Ultimately the gospel had been shared and sins washed away in the blood of Christ. Paul leaves them with his hopeful prayer that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ would be among them, that God's love could be shed upon them and shared among them, and that they would be able to partake of, and be uplifted through the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. It was his desire that they would not drift apart, but that they could remain united through God's gift of fellowship.   We also have this same hope and prayer for each other in our day. When we leave from services and greet with “God's Peace!”, the often unsaid, but underlying message is that God would allow that we could be together again sometime in the future and share in the gift of fellowship with each other. When we realize how precious this matter is to us, we desire to be together with our brothers and sisters in faith. It is fitting that we end with the words of the apostle: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”     Thoughts for discussion:   What does Christian fellowship mean to you? How have you benefited from Christian fellowship? Do you take time to “sit at the feet of Jesus? Do you feel a strong pull from the world? Have you had times in your life when you yearned for the fellowship of God's congregation? Do you feel that visiting and fellowship are suffering because of technology?

Will Jurmu | The Voice of Zion March 2025 - Home & Family Article -- In 1 Corinthians 8, verses 1 through 4, we read, “Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. But if any man love God, the same is known of him. As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.” Throughout our lives, we have often heard and read stories of idols. Some of these stories are very familiar to us, while others may not be. We can pause for a moment and ponder: what is an idol? Do we still have idols today? If so, how do they take shape in our lives? Do we, in our own poor walk of faith, find ourselves following idols? These are all timely questions to ask. For a moment, let us reflect on the presence of idols in our daily lives. In our society, we are surrounded by many important and influential people. At the click of a button, we can stay up to date on their every move. Often, our phones will even notify us of the latest news about celebrities, athletes, or politicians. These figures are well-known, and many of us follow at least one of them. The world constantly feeds us updates, encouraging us to invest our time, attention, and even admiration in these individuals. Yet, in this constant flow of information, we should be cautious. Even in our own political views, we must ensure that our beliefs do not come between us and our fellow believers, breaking the love that binds us together. We can securely trust that even in the functions of our government, God has allowed and ordained public servants to work in their roles. Athletes and celebrities can be entertaining to follow. There is nothing inherently sinful about enjoying their achievements. Yet, even in this area, we should ask ourselves: Are we simply consuming entertainment, or have we placed these figures in a position of influence over our hearts? Have we given them authority over our thoughts, emotions, and values? Beyond public figures, we may unknowingly place importance on other idols in our lives. How many of us spend hours each week listening to podcasts? There are many that are good—offering financial advice, personal confidence, health and fitness guidance, and more. These can be beneficial and fruitful in our daily lives. Scripture itself encourages us to live a clean, healthy, and pure life. Yet, even in this, we must be watchful. Do we become so enamored with those we follow that we forget where our daily bread and health truly come from? When we prioritize the instruction or teachings of humans above the instruction of God, we can slowly begin to reshape our understanding. With this new outlook, is there still room for faith in our hearts? Do we begin to search for new paths, only to find ourselves wandering from the old, true path? With newfound freedom, do we spend more time looking in the mirror, trying to refine our outward image? This reflection is not only about our appearance but also about what lies in our hearts. Are we satisfied with what God has given us, or do we crave something more? Do we become dissatisfied with how we look, with what we know? Does God’s kingdom begin to seem dull in comparison to the world’s endless array of exciting ideas? These are all fruits of the heart. We know that Satan will find any way to slip into a believer’s heart. When we turn our backs on God’s kingdom or seek new and exciting paths outside of it, Satan has won our hearts. But in God’s kingdom, there are many gifts and blessings to be found. He has abundantly blessed us with intelligence, talents, and resources—not to serve ourselves, but to serve Him and His kingdom here on earth. The first commandment instructs, “I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt have no other gods beside me.” We are also taught that God is a jealous God. The gifts He has given us are not our own, and He can take them away at any moment. It is human nature to seek more—more knowledge, more wealth, more health. God has blessed many in our society with wisdom in these areas. Yet, we are reminded in our Bible passage, “If any man think he knoweth anything, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.” Our understanding and knowledge cannot begin to comprehend the wisdom of God. As believers, we recognize that our talents are gifts from Him. This understanding should bring us to humility, not pride. As a fruit of faith we give all glory and thanks to God. In Matthew 6:24, we are given clear instruction: “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” (Mammon refers to worldly wealth and possessions.) When we try to serve two masters, they war against each other, consuming our faith. Why does this happen? Because there are two opposing forces at work—good and evil, God’s kingdom and Satan’s. We cannot serve both. Satan does not want us to forgive one another. He wants us to believe that we can live by our own wisdom and understanding. He knows that if we follow this path, we cannot serve God. Instead, sin and self-reliance take possession of our hearts, replacing love and forgiveness. Knowing that God is a jealous God, our first love should be placed in Him above everything else. We read in our Bible text, “As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one” (v. 4). This verse gives us good instruction. When we consume the things of this world, do they glorify God? When we find ourselves caught up in politics, celebrities, athletes, or the many voices in media, we should pause and ask: Does this strengthen my faith? Much of the instruction given in this world promotes individualism. Is our faith enriched when we become captivated by the teachings of the world? The child of God should turn to the congregation of God for instruction. As believers, we look out for one another. The picture of Jesus going to gather the one lost sheep and bringing it back to the flock is a reminder of how we, too, should care for one another. God has blessed His flock with many gifts, and these gifts are given not for self-glory, but to help and support believers, the flock of God on earth. Dear child of God, many of these things are not sinful in themselves. Yet, they are areas of watching. Be mindful of what takes root in your heart. When seeking instruction, turn first to the believers. Jesus teaches that the greatest in the kingdom of heaven is the little child. This simple instruction reminds us that while we may strive for knowledge and success, these are not what make us heaven-acceptable. Children do not search for these things. Instead, they simply look to their parent for nourishment, love, and care. So it is with us. As children of God, we should look to our heavenly Father for our nourishment and care. Let us strive to live our lives in obedience so that when our time on earth is over, our names may be written in the Book of Life in heaven.   Discussion questions: 1. What are some modern-day idols that can subtly take priority in our lives, even if they are not inherently sinful? How can we recognize when something has become an idol? 2. In what ways does individualism conflict with the biblical call to preserving fellowship among believers? How can we balance personal growth with a spirit of humility and service? 3. How do we ensure that the knowledge and wisdom we gain—whether through education, self-improvement, or media consumption—do not lead us away from faith but instead strengthen it? 4. Jesus teaches that a little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. What qualities of a child’s faith should we strive to cultivate in our own walk of faith? 5. Reflecting on Matthew 6:24 (no one can serve two masters) what are some practical ways we can guard our hearts against divided loyalties and keep God as our first love?

Natasha Warwaruk interviewed Dean Simonson | The Voice of Zion March 2025 - Along Life’s Way Article -- Off the beaten track, following a remote road, one comes to a hill. Nestled at the bottom of the hill is a country church graced with lofty poplars and a tidy gravel parking lot. At the top of the hill sprawls a farmyard, with a farmhouse, barns, bins, cattle, corrals, fences, shops and machinery. Saskatchewan has named this a Century Farm, which means it has been in the same family for 100 years. Dean and Charlene Simonson own and farm this land with their son Christopher. Chris is the fifth generation of the family to work the land. The homestead was established in 1909 by Heikki Simontaival. Some 60 years later, his grandson August Simonson donated a piece of this land to believers in the area to provide a site for a church. Dean remembers, “I always wanted to farm. It was my dream from when I was a young boy.” After high school graduation in 1984, Dean bought a piece of his father’s land and started farming with him. One year later, due to his father’s failing health, Dean started renting the rest of the land and was on his own. In 1989, Charlene joined him in this adventure when they married. They farmed Dean’s family farm near Hawarden for nine years. In 1998, when Charlene’s parents retired to Outlook, Dean and Charlene moved their young family to the farm at the top of the hill by Dunblane. “We have lived and farmed here ever since.” The Simonsons have a mixed farm, growing grain on about 5300 acres and raising around 120 beef cattle. “Our farm is not large by Canadian prairie standards, but it is above average. We hire part-time help in the busy seasons, but there is more than enough work at other times to keep us very busy.” The crops grown are primarily wheat, canola and lentils, and they have also planted peas, flax, barley, mustard, soybeans and chickpeas. About ten percent of their semi-arid prairie land is irrigated, which supports higher-value crops and ensures a steadier income. “Farmers wear many hats, so to speak-- farmer, rancher, mechanic, welder, marketer, agrologist, truck driver--just to name a few. We have found that it is valuable to us to hire professional consultants and some custom work to help us navigate the complexities of our farm operation and to take some of the workload burden.” Besides the daily chores of feeding and watering livestock, a typical year on the farm includes calving season which starts in late winter and goes until early spring. Machinery is tuned up so everything is ready for spring seeding. As the crops grow, spraying for weeds and diseases happens and summer also brings on the haying. Hay is stored up for the cattle to feed on when the pastures are frozen and covered in snow. Fall is harvest where the crops are taken in and stored for shipping out according to the markets and plans. The 8-month-old calves along with any cows that are not pregnant, have health issues or are too old, are sold in the fall. Some heifers are kept for the herd and bred heifers and cows are bought to keep up the stock. The winter months allow for things to slow down on the farm as the Simonsons rest up, contemplate the year gone by and plan for the new one ahead. Dean was called to be a servant of the Word when he was 24 years old and his farming lifestyle has lent well to this duty. “My biggest joy is having a believing wife who supports me in my daily work and the work of God’s kingdom.” Dean and Charlene have eight children who, as they grew up, were often nearby playing, watching and working. When called to serve in other congregations or on longer mission trips, believing neighbors have been willing to do the chores and help out with difficult tasks. Every time Dean steps outside his house or exits the driveway, he has a view of the church. He is reminded, “That’s my church, that’s my life, it’s always right there.” Over the years, this church, at the bottom of the hill, has undergone additions and renovations to fit the needs of its rural congregation. May God continue to bless and keep congregation it serves.   You can listen to Natasha’s visit with Dean on our Hearken  app!

Phil Jurmu | The Voice of Zion March 2025 - Camp Matters Article -- Camp operations at Laestadian Lutheran Church (LLC) facilities play a vital role in supporting believers in their life of faith. Behind the scenes, LLC Camp Boards work diligently to ensure that these facilities function smoothly, providing a place of rest, fellowship, and spiritual growth through various camp events. Strengthening Camp Board Collaboration In October 2024, the LLC hosted a workshop for Camp Board members. Over two days, participants engaged in discussions about best practices, exchanging insights on what works well for different Camp Boards and how others can adapt these ideas to meet their own needs. The workshop provided an opportunity to clarify the responsibilities of board members and explore how Camp Boards can best serve the membership. The Dual Role of LLC Camp Boards LLC Camp Boards operate with a twofold purpose: event coordination and planning and facility maintenance and operations. Camp Boards oversee the organization of events such as weekend camps, youth camps, and special gatherings. Their responsibilities include selecting directors and assistant directors, filling staff vacancies, and maintaining clear communication with the LLC office or local liaisons to ensure smooth event execution. Camp Boards also manage the upkeep and operations of camp facilities. They oversee staff, monitor budgets, and guide capital improvements, ensuring that facilities remain in compliance with state laws and effectively serve the membership. Camp Board Membership and Structure Each Camp Board consists of representatives from congregations within the camp’s support area. Additionally, the LLC Facility Manager and camp caretakers participate in board activities, ensuring coordination between daily operations and long-term planning. In addition, board members are assigned from time to time as camp staff, which gives hands-on experience of how camps operate. Board members serve three-year terms with no term limits, allowing for both continuity and commitment. Leadership roles within the board include a chairperson and a recording secretary, who are elected from among the members to facilitate effective communication and decision-making. Responsibilities of Camp Boards The Camp Board charter outlines specific duties, categorized into two main areas, as mentioned above: 1. Event Coordination and Planning Camp Boards collaborate closely with event staff to support core LLC events and regionally organized activities. While some boards, such as Kamp Kipa, utilize a liaison committee for communication, others, like Stony Lake and Hasscib Lake, handle these responsibilities directly. 2. Maintenance and Operations The LLC Facility Manager plays a key role in supporting camp caretakers and core camp staff while also coordinating kitchen operations teams. Camp Boards are responsible for monitoring budgets, overseeing capital improvements, and ensuring compliance with permits and state regulations. A Stewardship of Faith LLC Camp Boards are more than administrative bodies; they serve as stewards of the LLC mission, the work of God’s kingdom. By maintaining facilities, organizing events, and ensuring compliance with necessary regulations, they help create welcoming spaces where believers can gather for fellowship and spiritual nourishment. As we reflect on the role of Camp Boards, we are reminded of the words of Colossians 3:23,24: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

The Voice of Zion March 2025 - Editorial -- In the Laestadian Lutheran church, we find believers and member congregations in both the United States and Canada, united not only by faith, but by shared culture and history, family ties, and the call to serve one another in love. As the winds of international disputes blow across the continent, it can be easy to feel disheartened or concerned about where actions may lead. We may find ourselves on differing sides of high-level decisions. Yet as Christians in God’s kingdom, our perspective reaches beyond earthly matters and reminds us of what binds us eternally. The richest blessing is the opportunity for mutual gospel work that is beyond temporal borders.  When the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, he emphasized that love is the greatest of all virtues. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity” (1 Cor. 13:13). This charity—the selfless love that comes from God—is what guides believers’ relationships, both within the congregation and across borders. While earthly storms may arise, they do not diminish the unity we have as fellow travelers on the road to heaven. History offers examples of how the Christian church has endured and thrived in times of political or societal tension. Luther himself was no stranger to living amidst national and political upheaval, yet he focused not on the shifting landscape of alliances and conflicts but on what he called the “true treasure” of the church—the gospel of Christ. In his writings, Luther often reminded believers that earthly kingdoms will rise and fall, but God’s kingdom is eternal. He once wrote, “Even if the world were to collapse, faith would say: ‘I have Christ, and that is enough.’” This perspective is particularly relevant as we navigate this season. While policies and political statements may impact daily life, they do not change the promises of God or the mission He has given us as His people. Christ’s words in the Sermon on the Mount remind us where our priorities lie: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33). When we place God’s kingdom above all else, the concerns of this world take their proper place—not ignored, but seen through the lens of faith. Within our congregations, let us be vigilant to ensure that earthly matters do not create barriers to Christian love. It is natural for people to have differing views on political or economic issues, but these differences should never cause divisions among believers. They should also not keep us from sharing what weighs on our hearts and minds. We don’t want the enemy of souls to create a space in which we’re scared to ask about, share or discuss issues that impact daily life for fear of being judged or dismissed. One way we can preserve unity is by looking on others with the mind of Christ. If we find ourselves frustrated or at odds with a fellow believer over earthly matters, let us remember Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matt. 5:9). Luther understood that Christians are called to live in two kingdoms—the earthly and the heavenly. While we fulfill our responsibilities as citizens of our respective countries, our primary allegiance is to God’s kingdom. This dual responsibility can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to experience firsthand and share with others the peace and love that come from living as a child of God. As we face this moment together, we take comfort in the knowledge that God remains in control. The psalmist writes, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea” (Ps. 46:1,2). In every era, God’s people have faced uncertainties, but they have also experienced His faithfulness. Let us be steadfast in praying for our congregations and also our leaders and nations. Pray for wisdom and understanding to prevail in earthly matters, and pray for the continued strength of the bonds that unite us as believers. As we do so, we can trust in the promise found in Philippians 4:7: “The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The most important transaction we partake in is ultimately not between countries but between heaven and earth. Christ has already paid the price, trading His life for our salvation. We yet reap the rewards of this, when our sins are forgiven in His holy name and blood. In this, we find our greatest comfort and our enduring mission—to love, to serve, and to trust that God will provide. May we, as members of the body of Christ, continue to walk hand in hand, reflecting the light of His love in a world that needs it now and always.