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Ben Waaraniemi | The Voice of Zion February 2025 - Doctrine and Life Article --  This writing is based on a presentation kept at an October 1 meeting of Minnesota congregation boards and ministers. The first part of this writing was published in the November 2024 issue of The Voice of Zion. Having first examined what the Bible is and what our relationship to it ought to be, it is worthwhile to examine two opposing perspectives and interpretations that are current in our time. These could broadly be described as Christian Liberalism and Christian Fundamentalism.  The Christian Liberal perspective insists that the Bible must fit within modern understanding of science and is somehow subordinate to it. This leads to the understanding that Jesus was simply a great teacher, miracles are not scientifically possible and should be interpreted symbolically, and that each individual has the authority and ability to shape their own morality. Christian Fundamentalism on the other hand insists on a literal interpretation of the Bible. Conclusions are drawn beyond the text of the Bible and a rational model is built to support those conclusions. This leads to a legalistic view of the Bible and faith. Adherents often advocate isolation from society and a strong desire to personally advance God’s will in society by any means. It is important to note that many in the world would describe our faith as “fundamentalist,” simply because of our belief that the Bible is God’s Word. We do not need to concern ourselves with this, instead trusting that “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together” (Rom. 8:16,17). On the foundation that the Bible is our highest authority it is timely to examine our relationship to earthly authority, especially considering the errors of Christian Liberalism and Christian Fundamentalism. We have an example from our Lord Jesus Christ: “Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk. And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men. Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. And he saith unto them, whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s. When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way” (Matt. 22:15–22). What can we learn from this event in Jesus’ life? There is a very specific instruction about paying taxes, but there is a broader teaching about our relationship to authority. Jesus teaches that there are things that are Caesar’s and things that are God’s, and we owe obedience to each. The Christian Fundamentalist error is that we are to battle on God’s behalf against the earthly authorities. The error of Christian Liberalism is that faith and religion are simply social movements and have no place in our political or civic life. As God’s children we walk a narrow path guided by God’s Word between these two errors. The Apostles Peter and Paul also taught of the obedience and respect we owe to earthly authority (Rom. 13; 1 Peter 2:13). These teachings stem from the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God. When we believe and trust that God alone has power to install and remove governments and rulers, we are able to accept and obey the authorities as ordained by God. It is also important that we would not “render unto Caesar” the things that are God’s. “Divine Augustus” was likely inscribed on the coin that Jesus was handed, and Jesus rejected this claim to divinity of the ruler of that day. In our modern world that is so mistrustful of anything religious, it would be laughable for any ruler to outright claim divinity. The enemy of souls is much more subtle in our time.  An experience in my own life illustrates this. During my youth I attended both a professional hockey game and a political campaign rally that were held at the same arena a short time apart. I noticed then and have afterward often remembered the similarity between the two events. Believers have rightly been warned against the atmosphere of professional sporting events and the adulation of athletes. It is good to consider this same warning with respect to our politicians and leaders. I especially think of two recent presidents, Barack Obama and Donald Trump and the responses to both among the American people. With Obama, his candidacy and election seemed to be met with religious fervor and adulation from some of his supporters. Similarly Trump seems to elicit a religious response among some of his supporters. Roadside shrines spring up selling merchandise devoted to him. It is important that we as believers do not give to our leaders what is due only to God.  The Apostle Paul was once in the city of Athens and was moved to preach to them the living God “when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry” (Acts 17). God has created us to be in fellowship with Him. When the peace that comes from fellowship with God is lacking, people seek to fill this void with all manner of idols. It is a timely message in our time. We also live in a society “given to idolatry.” The devotion given to the celebrities of the entertainment industry, athletes, and politicians is culturally unhealthy and corrosive to faith. As citizens in a democracy, we have freedom to voice our opinions, support those candidates and parties that we feel would be best suited to govern, and even to criticize our leaders. This should all be done with Christian moderation and trusting that “the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will” (Dan. 4:25). Believers can and do have differing opinions on political and civic life. If we turn these into battles between good and evil, we will see other believers on the opposite side. We are called to a radical faith, and the way is not always easy. Think of the instructions of Jesus: “That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also;” “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s;” “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” These are not easy words to follow, and our flesh wishes to rise up and join the fray. In these battles, we have as our only weapon and defense the Word of God, and it is still secure to trust in His care; “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”   Discussion questions: How does our faith influence our political views and actions? Read Romans 13:1–5. Considering that our form of government is different than in Paul’s time, how does this instruction apply to us today? Read Philippians 3:20–21 in both the King James Version and New International Version. What is the most important “citizenship” of a believer? What rights and obligations come with that citizenship?  Sources: Holy Bible, King James Version.  (n.d.). Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (2001). Crossway. Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Zondervan. Kolb, Robert, and Timothy J. Wengert, eds.  The Book of Concord: The Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000. Palola, Ari-Pekka, ed.  Christ is the Same, Yesterday, Today and Forever. LLC, 2022.

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion February 2025 - News & Notes Article --  The activities of February have a strong planning focus. These include developing the 2026 operating plan, joint congregation board meetings in the Northwest and Southwest Mission areas, opening all camps for sign up, and preparing for LLC Winter Services just around the corner. Amidst all these activities, I often marvel at the wonderful connections to dear brothers and sisters across Zion and the willingness to serve one another. Please consider serving at camps as part of your summer plans. Jesus gave this teaching, “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). The greatest demonstration of this love is serving each other. Update on LLC Activities  Pastoral The second Bible translation communication has been distributed to congregations. We have experienced the benefit of these communications and the importance for congregations to visit about this topic. Service events have been scheduled for 2025 and we look forward to the opportunities to gather and listen to God’s Word. Currently there are around four hundred individual service event requests of ministers in North America coordinated by the Area Mission Committees and LLC Mission Department. In addition to these service event requests, many also serve at camp events and in their home congregations regularly. We want to remember these ministers and their families as these requests usually entail travel away from home and their home congregations.  Our brother Jorma Vuorma of Finland is scheduled to serve in North America from March 5 through April 8. On this trip he will serve in many congregations and at LLC Winter Services in Phoenix and attend the Ministers Camp at Stony Lake Camp. Mission Work God continues to bless His work throughout the world; He calls and gathers those who personally desire to believe into His kingdom. As the work expands, we have begun reorganizing our approach to mission work. The reorganized work will include additional volunteers in various teams to support the work that board members, ministers, teachers and others do in their own home areas and congregations. We continue to experience the need for interpretation and translation in numerous languages. The kingdomofpeace.net webpage and accompanying social media platforms are broadly accessed by people throughout the world. In 2025 there are plans for a regular schedule of broadcasted sermons. Some of the sermons and repentance experiences on this website have been viewed 30–50 million times. The sermon with the most views has been played for the equivalent of 2814 days. Education There is an Education Seminar scheduled for February 8, 2025, during Monticello’s Winter Service weekend at the Monticello church. The focus of this workshop is to provide support for local congregations’ Sunday School teachers, Bible Class leaders and others that are asked to teach in their congregations. 2025 Camp Season Registration for the 2025 camp season was approached in three phases this year, with Confirmation/Pre-Confirmation first, secondly Youth Camps and then for general enrollment. For the most part, registration was relatively smooth; LLC staff meanwhile continues to find ways to improve the registration process for camps. Silver Springs Pavilion A Silver Springs building committee has been formed to further plan for the construction of a pavilion at Silver Springs. There are several steps necessary prior to a final decision being made. Next steps include final design, cost estimation and a determination of support. Communication Our publications app Hearken  is nearly 3 years old! The app has over 2000 subscribers, with a total of over 3000 users who benefit from the new content added weekly as well as the wide variety of previously posted content. Recent efforts to improve usability, especially on Android devices, have yielded promising results. We are continually looking for ways to make the app better and easier to use, and we welcome your feedback and ideas! Send Shanna an email at spirness@llchurch.org To learn more about Hearken,  how it works and how to subscribe, visit www.llchurch.org/hearken We’ve received a number of inquiries on how or where to purchase audio tracks of LLC recordings, specifically to make cards for Yoto devices. While we don’t directly sell audio tracks on the LLC website, you can purchase and download them on most major digital music platforms, such as Google Music, Apple Music or Amazon. For the sixth year in a row, the Winter and Summer Services broadcasts will contain a variety of audio programs that will be played during breaks between service blocks. Volunteers have worked diligently to produce many hours of audio content for listeners of all ages! For Winter Services, Radio for Kids  segments will focus on happiness. The We Gather Here  series will feature Florida, Wyoming, Rolla, N.D, and Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado. We will hear interviews about joy in a series called Joyful Voices,  and there will be interviews of LLC staff members about their work. The Hold My Hand  series will feature programs on living away from other believers and on different personalities. There will also be discussion of doctrinal topics in the How We Believe  segments.  Tune in to Winter Services to hear God’s Word, and keep the broadcast on in between to hear these other programs as well! Here is the planned broadcast schedule: Thursday, March 13: 6:00–8:30 p.m. Friday, March 14: 12:00–9:00 p.m. Saturday, March 15: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Sunday, March 16: 9:50 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Bryce and Boden Loukusa  |  The Shepherd’s Voice  December 2024/January 2025 - Home and Family Article –   The Children of God are merciful (Matt. 5:7). Joseph is an example of the mercy of God’s children. Even though he was treated unfairly by his brothers and sold into slavery, he was merciful and forgave his brothers. Joseph was a believer in the Old Testament, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Joseph was especially loved by his father, and because of this his brothers hated him. Joseph had dreams that represented his brothers bowing down to him, and he told his brothers of these dreams. Because of this, his brothers were jealous and hated him so much that they wanted to kill him. Joseph’s oldest brother Reuben didn’t want to kill him and suggested that they cast him into a pit. As they sat by the pit eating bread, they saw some travelers going by. They sold Joseph to these travelers – into slavery – for twenty pieces of silver. Many years later, when Joseph had become a governor in Egypt, his brothers came to Egypt to buy food. They didn’t know that the important man who helped them was their brother, Joseph. They came a second time to buy food and bowed themselves to the ground. Eventually, Joseph couldn’t refrain from telling them he was their brother. His brothers were concerned that Joseph might be angry at them, but Joseph had a forgiving heart. Joseph told them even though they had done evil to him, God meant it for good.   Things to visit about: Do you think it was difficult for Joseph to forgive his brothers? When might it be difficult for us to forgive our siblings? What does it mean to forgive someone?

The Voice of Zion January 2025 - Home & Family Articles -- Families are gifts from God, lovingly shaped by Him over time into the form and number He intends for each of us. Every member is placed within a family by His design, forming bonds of love and connection that are meant to nurture and sustain us.  Family relationships hold significance, as they are where we learn to love, forgive, and support one another in a reflection of God’s care for us. Through both joys and challenges, families become a unique blessing. In these writings, believers from the Ishpeming, Mich., congregation share their perspectives on family life and relationships.  Our Children Are a Gift Megan Kuopus As a mother now to five children, life has gotten easier in some ways and harder in others. I find much support in going to church and spending time with other believers. As a younger mother to a growing family, it’s easy to lose sight of the blessings that come with children. Little reminders of how much of a gift these children are can come from different, and sometimes unexpected, places. I have found it easy for me to accept each new child and to get excited to meet each new one. I do, however, get anxious about how I will cope with the addition of another little one, with life only seeming to get busier. I wonder whether I will have enough patience for my children. I worry about doing something wrong or not being a good enough mom. My kids deserve to have a happy, patient mom, and some days I feel guilty for not being able to be the best parent. I find a lot of support in talking to other believing moms. Those who are in similar stages of raising kids share understanding and offer solidarity. When I visit with moms who have older kids or who are done raising their kids, I find a lot of encouragement and reassurance. They assure me that despite feeling I might be doing it wrong, I’m still doing a good job.  In our small congregation, I’ve experienced that many people, no matter the age or whether they’re parents or not, have reminded me time and again that these children are a blessing. The elders’ eyes light up talking about them and watching them. Teenagers will often entertain them for a moment, and singles enjoy giving and receiving attention from the little ones. Seeing others’ appreciation for children’s joy and innocence is a good reminder that they are such blessings. My father-in-law never fails to remind that these kids are precious gifts from God. He often remarks on how happy they are and how much happiness they bring. As a mom, the most important support I receive is the support and encouragement of my husband. Striving to have a good relationship and friendship with my spouse contributes to an overall sense of happiness for all in our household. I pray that God would continue to show me all His blessings. I thank Him for all ways He reminds us what a gift our children are.   Navigating Family Relationships in Homeschooling Krista Haapala In 2020, schools across the country shifted to remote learning during the pandemic, and we seized the opportunity to explore the waters of homeschooling. The material sent home by the school was heavily screen-focused, so we chose to seek out our own curriculum for our three school-aged kids. Today, five of our seven kids are now school-aged, allowing us to continue to experience the joys and challenges of homeschooling. Each day is unique, and yet we try to follow a general routine. The younger kids start their schoolwork first, followed by lunch and outside time, after which the older kids begin their lessons. Our oldest attends online classes, completing her work nearly independently and asking for help when needed.  During the warmer days of early fall, we prioritized time outside and getting together with friends. Now that the weather has turned colder, we have shifted to indoor activities like reading and educational games alongside schoolwork. It brings a smile to my face when I see my three-year-old find a notebook and bring it to the table like the big kids so he can “do school.” It’s equally wonderful to see the older kids share what they’ve learned with the younger ones, often putting their own unique interpretation on a lesson that has been recently taught.  One of the challenging aspects of homeschooling is that our family is together almost all day, every day. However, there are occasional opportunities for each to get out by themselves for cello lessons or home economics with Grandma. We are always learning how to take time for ourselves, whether by going alone outside for some fresh air or finding a quiet spot for a calming activity or to read a book. Sometimes the togetherness can feel overwhelming, leading to increased tensions. In these moments of conflict, we can find reconciliation in the gospel, preached in Jesus’ name and blood.  Our homeschool journey has emphasized to me the importance of close relationships, not only between immediate family but also with friends and extended family. There are a few other homeschooling families in our congregation, and it’s been good to visit with these moms about different homeschool methods as well as strategies for navigating chaotic days. Friends, both young and old, offer fresh perspectives on our challenges. It’s comforting to remember that God sees and understands everything, and despite our shortcomings, He cares for us.  “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater” (Isa. 55:8–10).   Raising Children Together Emily Hill and Sarah Laiho How have having babies and raising families at the same time changed your mother-daughter relationship? Being able to raise children at the same time is special for us. We have even more in common now that we are both mothers. We understand and can relate to each other better because we are in similar phases, going through pregnancies and helping each other during the newborn period and raising children. How do you support each other at this time of your lives? We care for each other’s children when there are appointments. We also visit each other a few times a week, sharing meals and helping each other with projects. We feel it’s important in general for people to help each other, especially during the extra-busy seasons of life – pregnancies, the newborn period, and during times of trial and illness. We have also felt the support from believers in our congregation. What blessings or trials have you experienced in this situation? Even though mothers are often surrounded by children, motherhood in itself can feel lonely at times. It’s nice to have each other to talk to, to ask for and receive advice or to just be a listener. We lived a few states away from each other up until this past year. We now live within a mile of each other, and we both feel fortunate that we can support each other on a daily or weekly basis.  What special experiences have you had? A special time was when I, Emily, was able to travel to another state to be with my daughter Sarah, Tommy and their first child for several days after she was born. It was meaningful to be able to help their little family during a time of transition, similar to what my mother did for me when Sarah was born.  Discussion questions: How can spouses and parents reflect God’s love in their relationships with one another and with their children? What does it mean for parents to view their children as gifts from God, and how might this perspective influence parenting? How does recognizing God as the Creator of all life shape our view of children and family? What role does forgiveness play in maintaining healthy relationships between family members? In what ways can faith help us navigate challenging decisions about life and family?

Arvin Pirness  | The Voice of Zion January 2025 - News & Notes Article -- Not long ago, we were celebrating the arrival of 2024, and now another year has passed, leaving us with many cherished memories and reasons to thank our Heavenly Father. As we enter a new year, we prayerfully plan and reflect on the growth of God’s kingdom. It is truly uplifting to witness the generosity and support of believers, which makes this work possible. As we look ahead, we often wonder what plans God has in store for us. At the start of 2025, we humbly seek His continued guidance and blessings. Above all, as children of God, we hold on to the living hope that one day our personal faith will be fulfilled in the eternal glory of heaven. Update on LLC Activities Education A Teacher’s Workshop is scheduled for February 8, 2025. The targeted audience is Sunday School directors and teachers asked to help coordinate teacher support in their congregations. Local congregations are encouraged to send representatives from their congregations. This workshop takes place during Monticello’s Winter services. Attendees will be able to attend both events.  Confirmation teacher exchange between the SRK and the LLC will continue in 2025. Personnel – Seasonal Staff Seasonal staff is needed at all camp centers. These include the Hasscib Lake Camp caretaker, kitchen heads at HLC, SLC and Kamp Kipa, and core staff at each camp center. The wages of these positions have increased markedly during the last two years. Please consider serving in this way. Applications can be submitted through the LLC website. Pastoral A new minister’s workshop has been scheduled for February 21–22, 2025, at the LLC office. At this gathering, attendees are able to visit with and support one another in this calling. We encourage member congregations to send those that they have recently called into the office of ministry.  The evening devotions that began as a way to serve the believers during the time of the pandemic in 2020 have been appreciated and are a support on the endeavor of faith, especially to those that are not able to gather with other believers for services. We have experienced the blessings of the minister exchange trips with our sister organizations. Details are being finalized for the 2025 trips. Additional details will be shared here in The Voice of Zion  as they become known prior to the trips. The early stages of scheduling services and events for 2026 have begun. We approach this planning in prayer that God would guide the work to serve his children wherever they may be. All these events are coordinated with the involvement of the local congregations, area mission committees, camp boards, LLC staff and many others. Mission Work Greetings from the International Ministers Camp which was held in Accra, Ghana, December 2–5, 2024. Marv Wittenberg of Seattle and Arvin Pirness from the LLC office traveled to participate in this first Ministers Camp held in Africa. Twenty-two brothers from African countries and one from Pakistan participated in the event. Watch for coverage in an upcoming Voice of Zion issue. There are plans for 27 mission trips in 2025. Target countries include: Ecuador, Kenya, Ghana, Togo, The Gambia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, Rwanda and Malawi. Believers in these countries eagerly wait for the mission trips. Remember them and the brothers who will travel in 2025 in your prayers. Communications LLC’s Fiction writing contest ended November 30. Six manuscripts were received. A reading group was formed to read the manuscripts and evaluate them for possible publishing. The group has begun their task of reading and will recommend to the LLC Print Publications committee two manuscripts for further work and eventual publishing. Work continues with Matellio, developer of our Hearken  app, to correct usability issues that arose in listening to audio on Android devices. Users who reported these issues were offered an opportunity to beta test a new version of the audio player on the app. We thank all users who reported issues to us and continue to communicate about the app’s functioning. This helps us identify and correct the issues. In this issue of The Voice of Zion, you will note some new features. One of them is our Bible Class feature. We hope this edifies all readers and finds use at camps, youth evenings or Bible classes. It appears that we’ll publish several books during 2025! These include doctrinal and Biblical works, writings on timely topics and works of fiction as well. We trust that God will guide this and all LLC work as He sees fit. Opistos in Finland The Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture recently granted additional funding to Jämsä, Ranua and Reisjärvi opistos to increase their student intake for the 2025–2026 opisto year. Jämsä received funding for 80 additional student places. As a result it will use SRK-owned Maitoinen camp as a branch campus. Reisjärvi received 23 additional student places, and Ranua was granted six. This means that next opisto year the opistos combined can accept nearly 600 students from the much higher number of annual applications received. As previously reported, we have granted 14 scholarships for the 2025–2026 year to students wishing to attend one of the three opistos in Finland. There are also a number of students who wish to pay their own way to opisto. Given the large number of Finnish youth that also wish to attend opisto each year, we are grateful that Jämsä and Reisjärvi opistos will each accept four self-pay students from North America, and Ranua will accept two self-pay students. All in all, 24 North American students will study in opistos next school year. Subscription Rates Last month we announced an increase in subscription rates, and we’re mentioning them again to ensure all our subscribers are aware. The new subscription rates for The Voice of Zion  and The Shepherd’s Voice  came into effect January 1, 2025, due to rising printing and postage costs and efforts to improve mailing times. New yearly rates: – Voice of Zion: $75 (North America), $100 (Overseas) – Shepherd’s Voice: $40 (North America), $60 (Overseas) We appreciate your understanding as we make these necessary adjustments, and we’re grateful for your support in sustaining this important work.

David Edwards | The Voice of Zion December 2024 - What Does the Bible Say Article -- Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. – Matt. 5:12 Don’t these words of Jesus bring great comfort to you, my fellow traveler? During the Christmas season there are many familiar songs and phrases that speak of joy and gladness. As we make the final preparations for Christmas, let us pause for a few moments around God’s Word and reflect on the true source of joy we have as God’s children. What makes us exceedingly glad?  Our Bible text is the final portion of what is known as the Beatitudes, spoken during Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Jesus exhorted to rejoice and be exceeding glad. What brings you joy? What makes you exceedingly glad? I have often heard young children exclaim, “This is the best day ever,” when they have received something. Often it is a gift beyond the expectation of the child.  Those who witness this expression of joy experience joy themselves. While this type of joy is familiar, it is often short-lived because it comes from receiving temporal gifts. There is, however, a gift that exceeds all other gifts, faith.  You, dear child of God, have received the most precious gift man can receive, faith. It came from God. There are many people in this world who have not received such a great gift. For this reason, the child of God desires to thank the heavenly Father and join with the words of Apostle Peter. “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Pet. 4:13). Not only do believers experience joy, but heaven also expressed joyous news when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the Bible testifies that the angels rejoiced over the news of the birth of a Savior. “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” (Luke 2:10). What kind of reward is heaven? The reward for remaining in faith is a crown of life in heaven. A reward in the favorable sense is something given in return for a good thing done, a service rendered, or some merit earned. Children of God cannot boast of our successes, rather we often lament how poor and weak we are in faith.  So why does God offer a reward? It is because God sees us through the merits of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Through faith in His merits, we receive the gift of righteousness. Through faith, we receive a twofold portion, both life, and hope of heaven. When considering the reward of heaven, one can ponder the glory that awaits there. The Apostle exhorts, “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Cor. 9:2).  As a pardoned sinner, the child of God receives an answer, peace of conscience. How often the little children remind us of the hope of heaven! I have observed this via my youngest children when putting them to bed. How restful they become when the sweet message of the gospel is preached. What can we learn from trials and persecution? Here in this life, we all have trials. God’s Word reminds that trials are given to test our faith. We also understand that God does not give us more that we can bear. I have often gleaned from the example of Job, a righteous man, who was blessed temporally and spiritually. God allowed the enemy of souls to smite Job. He lost all his earthly possessions, his family, and even his health. Each time these trials came, Job would say, “the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).  While God did allow the devil to tempt and try Job, He did not allow the devil to touch Job. Job’s faith and God’s protection for him, serve as a reminder to us. They are one of many reminders from the Old Testament about God’s protection. Through faith former travelers made it to heaven’s shore. God who also knows our needs, hears our prayers, not only blessed us, but also protected us from the evilness that is in the world. Jesus prayed in His high priestly prayer that we would be protected from evil (John 17:15).  We face a threefold enemy, the devil, the world, and our own sin corrupted flesh. Sometimes this enemy comes so close we become fearful and wonder if God has forgotten us. God does not leave us in this condition but rather sends His angels to comfort us and bring the glad tidings from heaven, the precious gospel message. The gospel will carry us until the end of our journey where through faith we can hear the wonderful greeting of our Lord Jesus “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matt. 25:34). It is worthwhile to continue traveling the way of faith.   Discussion Questions: Why does God promise a reward to those who believe? What is the true source of joy for a believer? How does it differ from the joy that comes from receiving material gifts? When Jesus was born, heaven and believers on earth rejoiced. What were they happy about? What things to be happy about can we gain from going through trials? What do we mean when we say our greatest treasure is the hope of heaven?

The Voice of Zion December 2024 - Editorial -- As Christians, we are placed in the world to serve, to be light in darkness, to be salt that preserves what is good. Jesus’ prayer in John 17:15 captures this mission beautifully: “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” Jesus knew that while the world is marked by brokenness and sin, we are not to withdraw from it. Instead, we are called to engage as witnesses of God’s grace and truth, mindful of the pitfalls of isolating ourselves and cutting off meaningful engagement with others. The Dangers of Isolation There is often a temptation, particularly when society’s values seem increasingly at odds with Christian beliefs, to retreat. But fully withdrawing, however well-intentioned, runs counter to the mission Christ has given us. He calls us to be among others, bearing witness of the gospel through our vocations. Lutheran teaching on vocation emphasizes that every Christian has roles—parent, neighbor, worker, friend, or citizen—and serves God through them.  Jesus did not shy away from people’s struggles, and neither should we. Our ability to empathize, to be compassionate, and to minister is diminished when we withdraw. If we set ourselves apart, we may miss an opportunity to witness God’s wisdom and protection in complexities and real-world challenges that life sets before us. God has exhorted us to fear not; relying on Him can strengthen our faith. Engaging without Conforming Engaging with the world does not mean conforming to it. Paul’s reminder in 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers,” urges discernment in relationships. It is natural that we form ties, in work, study, neighborhood life, and other ventures, with people of many persuasions. But we would wish to avoid compromising what we believe in order to maintain those ties. To confess one’s faith is to indicate where boundaries lie. Saying what we believe, even if we aren’t always able to explain why, can be a powerful sermon. While we are called to love and serve everyone, we must also maintain our spiritual integrity, especially in significant partnerships. Being “unequally yoked” speaks to the imbalance that can occur in deep, binding relationships where values or beliefs conflict. This caution is not about judging another, but about relying on Christ as our sure foundation. As believers, we live according to a different standard—one rooted in God’s Word. We are called to be lights to the world, reflecting Christ’s love while building our closest relationships on shared faith in Him. Trust in God’s Sustaining Grace Isolation can sometimes signal a lack of trust in God’s providence. It may suggest that, in order to preserve our faith, we must withdraw. Yet, Christians believe that God sustains us as we live in the world, even amidst its challenges. His Word and sacraments equip us to remain faithful, and His grace gospel provides the strength we need to engage with society without being overcome by it. Jesus did not isolate Himself from sinners, nor did He pray that His disciples would be removed from the world’s struggles. Instead, He sent them out, just as He sends us, to bring the light of the gospel to every corner of the world. Rather than withdrawing, we are called to trust in God’s protection as we engage with those around us, trusting that He will guide us through the temptations and difficulties we encounter. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we remember that Jesus entered the world in humility, becoming one of us. In the incarnation, God stepped into human history, to bring light into our darkness. He came not to isolate His own from the world, but to walk among us, share our burdens, and reveal God’s love. May we be inspired by “Emmanuel––God with us” to live fully present where we are placed, trusting that God’s grace will guide us to serve our neighbors with love and compassion. We can with Christmas joy in our hearts fulfill our calling wherever we are placed.

Andrew Hotari | The Voice of Zion December 2024 - Column -- When Christmas morn is dawning, in faith I would repair unto the lowly manger; my Saviour lieth there. Whenever I have sung or heard this familiar Christmas hymn, my eyes and ears have noticed the song writer’s interesting choice of the word: repair.  While the dictionary tells me that an archaic meaning would be to “betake” oneself – take oneself to a place, today we use it as to fix something that is broken. It is a strong and active verb. Many of us today like to tinker and repair items that have suffered damage or become faulty. There is great satisfaction in fixing things and being a successful repairman. I have often wished for a nice shop with bright lights and ample storage where I could tinker, fix and maintain things in comfort and security. Whatever the songwriter intended, I can consider that the best way to prepare for the coming of Christmas is to be actively mending the one thing that needs constant repair and attention: our life of faith. I often feel that I am so sin-corrupted and faulty – beyond repair. I am an item that no human hands can fix. And yet in that lowly manger, our Saviour lieth there. It was He who was “anointed to preach the gospel to the poor, it was He who was sent 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). He brought the bright lights of heaven with Him, the spiritual facility to care for the suffering sinner in the comfort and security of His kingdom here upon earth. I’ve noticed during the sacrament of Holy Communion how the servants of the Word ask the attendees to come forth to the table of the Lord with a believing heart. In similar fashion the songwriter asks me to do the same this Christmas; to put away all sins of the journey so that I can enjoy the true beauty of Christmas as a free grace child! How kind, O loving Savior, to come from heav’n above; from sin and evil save us, and keep us in Thy love. I have also noticed that even the most gifted song writers throughout the ages have faced the limitations of earthly languages when they have tried to voice thanks to the heavenly Father for the gift of salvation, Christ Jesus. Here, I find a prayer that I would be preserved in His love. I have found the incomprehensible love of Christ; the hidden treasure of God. As such sinners we are reminded: We need Thee blessed Jesus; our dearest friend Thou art; forbid that we by sinning should grieve Thy loving heart. I am like the lowly shepherds on duty in the field unto whom the glory of God was inexplicably revealed. Like them I am often timid, fearful and doubting. In the darkness of the night we hear the message of grace from heaven, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32).  I can join the shepherds’ footsteps that approach the lowly manger of our Saviour and behold the salvation of the world. When God has granted the power to believe and the Holy Spirit has revealed to our slow hearts that truly our impossible sin debt has been paid in the innocent blood of the Lamb, then we too have been filled with the joy of salvation. May God grant us strength to be hearers and doers of His word by staying close to the loving heart of Jesus. May we strive to keep faith and a clean conscience all of our days. He will come again to collect his own, not those sin-defiled and faulty earthly bodies that were in constant need of repairs, but rather the incorruptible glorified new bodies made perfect in the blood of the Lamb.   Andrew Hotari enjoys pausing for a quiet moment to reflect amidst the busyness of life. The Hotari family lives in the Southern Georgian Bay region of Ontario and are members of the Toronto congregation.

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion December 2024 - News & Notes Article -- On behalf of the staff here at LLC, I wish you all a joyous and peaceful Christmas. The Scriptures relate how many years ago the heavens opened as angels announced the birth of the promised Savior. Today, the same joyful message rings; it gives comfort to the doubting and the hope of eternal Christmas in heaven. May the message of God’s perfect gift to humankind be paramount as we gather with loved ones during this Christmas season. Update on LLC Activities Mission Work Evening devotions are scheduled for weekday evenings throughout the year. Approximately 30 ministers serve in this project each year. The schedule has been made for the coming year and a webinar will be held prior to January to support brothers who have been asked to serve in this way. A weekly Zoom service happens on Sunday morning for brothers and sisters in faith in Ecuador. The schedule has been completed for 2025. Remember the brothers who serve with God’s Word and the brothers and sisters who serve as interpreters each week. Each fall we have a webinar for ministers who will travel on a foreign mission trip during the next year. There we discuss general information about the countries where brothers travel as well as how we support the brothers and sisters in faith in mission countries when a trip happens to their location. Seventeen brothers from North America will travel on mission trips in 2025. Finance The LLC board approved the 2025 budget as presented at the 2024 LLC Annual Meeting with the following changes due to the increase in camp fee participation: – Camp fees increase 10% rather than 35% – Camp Staff Wage increase 50% 2025 Camp Season Enrollment for the 2025 Camp Season will be somewhat different than in previous years. Confirmation and preconfirmation enrollment will be scheduled in January, youth camp enrollment in February and open enrollment will begin in March for all other camps. In addition, an updated payment schedule will be available in 2025. The options will be to pay in full at time of registration, pay half at registration and half later, or a monthly payment plan with full amount required by November 1 of 2025. Camp fee collections in 2024 surpassed previous years, so an adjustment of the fee increase of 35% has been reduced to a 10% increase.  Recruitment for Seasonal Core Staff for our camp centers is open, and information will be available and distributed to member congregations by December 1, 2024. The following seasonal positions need to be filled: – Hasscib Lake Caretaker – Hasscib Lake Office Assistant – Hasscib Lake Kitchen Head – Hasscib Lake Caretaker Assistant – Stony Lake Kitchen Head – 4 Stony Lake Core Staff Positions: Caretaker Assistant Office Assistant Staff Assistant Kitchen Assistant – Kamp Kipa Kitchen Head – Kamp Kipa Office Assistant – Kamp Kipa Caretaker Assistant Education A teacher’s workshop-seminar is scheduled for February 8, 2025, and will be held at the Laestadian Lutheran Church of Monticello 9:00 am–2:00 pm. The purpose of the workshop is to provide support for teachers to develop a classroom environment without a classroom space. The theme for the workshop comes from SHZ 451, “Little Ones to Him Belong.” The intended audience is any teacher in the congregation and Sunday School directors. This event coincides with LLCM Winter Services. Additional information will be distributed to congregations in December. Pastoral The discussion to consider additional Bible translations to the King James Version has been underway for several years now. It has been important to take the time to prayerfully consider and discuss this matter. Congregation delegates were informed at the 2024 Annual Meeting that a series of videos will be sent to congregations regarding Bible translation and usage. The first in a series of three videos was shared with member congregations to view and visit around this topic. The Laestadian Lutheran Church of Utah Valley has called Chad Laiho and Wyatt Kesti into the office of ministry. We wish to remember Chad and Sarah along with Wyatt and Kendra and their families as they begin their service as servants of the Word. Communications We recently published a digital-only music album on Hearken,  our publications app. The album is called Eventide  and it features evening songs recorded by the Menahga, Minn., congregation adult choir. This album will also soon be available on other digital music platforms. Some Hearken  users have experienced issues and glitches while using the app. Many of these users have Android devices. If you are experiencing usability issues, please tell us about your experiences in our online form. See the LLC website to access the form. Your input on these issues will help us solve them. In 2025, there will be some new features in The Voice of Zion.  One example is a Bible Class feature, which will contain a Bible lesson structured in a teachable format. These lessons will focus on Jesus’ miracles. At the 2024 LLC Annual Meeting, delegates approved a plan to arrange music discussions and workshops in member congregations. LLC Music Coordinator Liisa Keranen will visit congregations that request such a visit. Liisa has already visited a few congregations and the music work update presentation as well as song leader and organist workshop have been well received. We are currently working on a poetry project together with the SRK. The aim of this joint effort is to produce poems and verses that can be used to congratulate others at life milestones, whether in greeting cards or read aloud in celebrations. If you are interested in contributing to this project, contact Ruth at rdelacey@llchurch.org Our Christmas Publications Sale in our online store continues through December 31 or while supplies last. The LLC Office will host a Christmas Open House on Thursday, December 12. Come in the afternoon to browse the bookstore, make purchases, visit with staff and sing Christmas songs with us.

The Voice of Zion November 2024 - Editorial -- In a world that pushes for more—achievement, possessions, success—contentment can feel elusive. Many struggle to find peace amid comparison and striving.  Unrealistic expectations about relationships or personal achievements can leave us feeling dissatisfied when life doesn’t meet our idealized standards. Pride, meanwhile, can lead us to believe that contentment is something to be earned through our own efforts. Misplaced priorities blind us to the peace that comes from relying on God’s grace, and they prevent us from appreciating the blessings already present in our lives.  True contentment, from a Christian perspective, is found through humility, gratitude, and trust in God’s provision. Instead of seeking satisfaction in worldly successes, we are called to recognize that contentment is found in resting in God’s love, trusting His plan, and appreciating the blessings He has already given. Fulfillment lies in aligning our lives with God’s will. Comparison is often a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it can serve as a tool for assessing personal growth. However, more often, it leads to dissatisfaction and envy. Social media especially intensifies this tendency, offering us curated glimpses of others’ lives and creating a sense of inadequacy. Jesus warned against this kind of worry in Matthew 6:25-34, where He reminds us to seek first God’s kingdom, not worldly status or possessions. Yet comparison can also be beneficial when it helps us reflect on our faith: we can prayerfully ponder whether we yet believe as did the saints who went before. Hebrews 13:5 encourages us to be content with what we have, reminding us that God will never forsake us. This type of self-reflection, as Martin Luther emphasized, helps keep us grounded in faith and prevents us from straying into dissatisfaction with God’s guidance. Contentment lies in recognizing that all we have is a gift from God. Jesus’ parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21) warns against hoarding wealth, while Paul’s words in Philippians 4:11–13 remind us that contentment comes through reliance on God. Luther often preached against materialism, reminding us that wealth is fleeting. Instead, trusting in God’s grace sustains us through both times of plenty and times of need. Looking at the lives of those who came before us provides valuable perspective on contentment. Many who lived through hardship often reflect with gratitude for what they had rather than dwelling on what they lacked. This serves as a reminder that contentment doesn’t require perfect circumstances. Just as God provided for the Israelites in the desert (Exodus 16), He continues to provide for us. This reflection can also ease anxieties about our own futures.  Contentment is closely tied to appreciating what we already have. As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:6, godliness with contentment is great gain. When we focus on the present, we see the blessings around us, like a warm home or a peaceful moment outdoors. Setting reasonable goals and limiting distractions, such as excessive screen time, helps foster a balanced, grateful heart.  Paul’s reminder in Galatians 6:2 encourages us to find satisfaction in serving others. Building relationships and helping others bring more lasting fulfillment than material achievements. Contentment isn’t passivity; it is deep trust in God’s provision and a heart at peace with His will. In every circumstance, we find true contentment by relying on God, who provides for us in prosperity and adversity alike.