Adventist World English - January 2021

01/2021 Birthday Reboot Page 10 “I Don’t Know You” Page 20 “Please Stretch Our Supply” Page 28

Finally!

10 Birthday Reboot

12 Looking Out for Each Other

Gerald A. Klingbeil

Marissa Leslie

14 Our Commission Imagine That Getting Together His Church, His Identity Various Authors

17 Millennial Voices Faith and Courage Beersheba Jacob 18 Global View Looking Forward Ted N. C. Wilson 20 Devotional “I Don’t Know You” Leandro J. Velardo 22 Faith in Action A Focus on Children Agata Rubak 24 Looking Back The Power of Real Christianity David J. B. Trim 26 Bible Questions Answered A Day of Rest?

27 Health & Wellness The Best Exercise 28 May I Tell You a Story?

“Please Stretch Our Supply” 30 Growing Faith Seven Things Dogs Teach Us About God 2021 General Conference Session Official notice is hereby given that the postponed sixty-first session of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists will be held May 20-25, 2021, in the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States. The first meeting will begin at 8:00 a.m., May 20, 2021. All duly accredited delegates are urged to be present at that time.

Ted N. C. Wilson, General Conference President G. T. Ng, General Conference Secretary

Springs of Hope

BY BILL KNOTT

As a child I was fascinated by the naturally occurring springs that dotted the pine and hardwood forests near my father’s cabin in the hills.

For a boy accustomed to turning a chrome handle to fill my glass with filtered, fluoridated liquid, the idea of a water source that flowed continuously from the earth held powerful meaning.

There was one sunlit spring, high on a roadside bank of grass, at which my father would stop as we drove a twisting highway through a river valley in the Berkshires. My brothers and I would slake our thirst at the cold pipe that always gushed a stream of icy water.

Some miles away another pipe had been driven into a mossy, leaf-strewn granite cliff. Frigid water flowed at such a rapid pace that travelers could quickly fill their picnic jugs and water bottles.

But my favorite was the roadside spring over which some thoughtful farmer had put a large metal drum. When you lay on your stomach to drink from the surface—for that was the only way you could get a swallow—you could see with utmost clarity the air bubbles at the bottom that always marked the inflow of new water to replenish the barrel.

Springs were valuable, I learned, because they are constantly renewed with fresh water from some vibrant underground aquifer I can never see.

And so at every rounding of the year, I think of springs and sources of renewal. In our frustration and haste we often wish to slam the door on the departing year, or banish memories of its pain and sorrow. But there are—and must be— great continuities that tie the old year to the new. We live in the same bodies; we inhabit the same homes. We remain related to the same family; we work at the same jobs. We worship with the same believers; we study the same Word.

It is renewal, then, and not a clean break from the past, that offers us our greatest hope in 2021. How can our bodies be renewed? Will this year be the one in which we are transformed by the renewing of our minds? (Rom. 12:2). How does a weary marriage find new sources of resilience and of laughter?

Can dry and broken friendships be restored?

We crave the ageless and unquenchable source of all renewal— the grace and mercy of our Lord revealed in the pages of His Word.

Only surrendering ourselves to it—lying flat upon the ground to drink its clear, unending truth—will make the new year different from the old, and water us with holy joy.

“For He who has mercy on them will lead them, even by the springs of water He will guide them” (Isa. 49:10).

Drink deeply from the Word of God in 2021. And stay in grace.

We believe in the power of prayer, and we welcome prayer requests that can be shared at our weekly staff worship every Wednesday morning. Send your requests to prayer@adventistworld.org, and pray for us as we work together to advance God’s kingdom.

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News Moment

Adventist members in the city of Fortaleza, northern Brazil, shared the Portuguese-language edition of the mission book The Greatest Hope with intrigued people on a beach promenade via drone delivery. Sometimes blessings reach us from unexpected places.

Photo credit: Joseph Redfield, South American Division News

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News in Brief

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Number of years that Allira House, an Adventist women’s shelter recently relocated to Mount Hutton, New South Wales, Australia, has served the communities of Cooranbong and the Lakes area.

It offers counseling, secure alternate housing, and medical and legal assistance to about 100 women and children each year.

The shelter is funded through the support of eight local thrift stores.

“The center has a mission to teach healthy habits for a well-balanced lifestyle, including the spiritual dimension.

We follow Christ’s method of connecting with people, becoming their friends and sharing messages that bring hope to their lives.”

—Lorena Neria, general coordinator of the new online AMICUM Life and Hope Center, operated by Adventist Montemorelos University in northern Mexico. The offerings of this virtual community center include online courses on healthful living focusing on physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Moderated forums target mourning mothers, young people with disabilities, those looking for help with personal finances, and others.

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Commitment to Jesus Christ In the 2017-2018 General Conferencecommissioned Global Church Member Survey, researchers asked which of the following described best the participant’s commitment to Jesus Christ.

48,000 Number of underserved people who will be reached by a new boat clinic funded by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in the coastal Dakop district, Bangladesh. The boat clinic carries trained medical personnel to provide basic treatment and access to specialized doctors.

Tithe Solidarity Initiative Motion passed unanimously by the executive committee of the Inter-European Division (EUD) during its virtual year-end meetings. The plan, reflecting the biblical model of solidarity found in the book of Acts, suggests that unions facing a significant decrease of more than 2 percent in tithe income would receive help from unions that had an increase in 2020.

37.9% My commitment to Christ has developed gradually.

30.3% I have been committed to Christ since I was a young child.

16.2% My commitment to Christ came suddenly and I was changed.

6.9%

I am not sure if I am committed to Christ.

6.8%

I committed my life to Christ, but it didn’t last.

1.9%

I am not committed to Christ.

Source: ASTR Research and Evaluation Team in collaboration with Meta-Analysis Research Team, Andrews University, n = 51,507

Special Missions Name of a new administrative unit voted by the executive committee of the South American Division (SAD) in November 2020 during its year-end meetings. The special missions will have a smaller administrative footprint, will receive significant financial support from the division, and are established to move the missions forward and serve more effectively in regions that struggle financially. The model will begin functioning in the territory of the SAD from 2022 onward.

News in Brief

“What interests me most is the possibility of Priština’s small church family extending their arms of loving friendship to youth and young families from a very different background.”

—Dragan Grujičić, president of the South-East European Union, commenting on the decision to establish a community center in the city of Priština, Kosovo, that will serve a population of 205,000 people. The project is the result of a partnership between the General Conference, the Trans-European Division, the South-East European Union, and Adventist Frontier Missions.

“We’re a prophetic movement focused on the second coming of Jesus. Many, if not most, of rankand-file Adventist members think prophecy is exclusively about forecasting future events, not realizing its witness in Scripture speaks predominantly to the present—to now.”

—Jeffrey Rosario, a doctoral candidate at the University of Cambridge, during a presentation focusing on biblical justice in a world of social unrest on November 2, 2020, during the North American Division year-end meetings.

105 Number of packages of brandnew clothes for women, men, and children, and blankets distributed by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) of El Salvador shortly after torrential rains hit the northwestern part of the country, causing massive landslides that resulted in the loss of life and the destruction or damage of hundreds of homes. Adventist Pathfinder clubs all over the country helped assemble food and clothes packages. ADRA was also able to serve 400 meals to first responders searching for survivors. It distributed 300 masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during the relief efforts.

Photo: El Salvador Union AdventistWorld.org January 2021

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News in Depth

Media Evangelism, a Newfound Success Across East-Central Africa

Series in five English-speaking countries results in thousands of baptisms.

By Prince Bahati, East-Central Africa Division, and Adventist World

According to the latest reports, more than 34,000 people have been baptized through virtual evangelism across five English-speaking countries in the East-Central Africa Division (ECD). This number is the result of evangelistic efforts conducted through Adventist media in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

In the initial planning the division had mobilized church-owned media for this mission initiative. Before long, however, leaders realized that they weren’t up to the task because of logistic and financial constraints.

Financial challenges prevented them from covering extensive territories or having adequate Internet connection to livestream the message. By faith, the steering committee extended invitations to non-Adventist media in the region.

Many of them streamed the campaign without charging for it.

In his report Joel Okindoh, ECD evangelism coordinator, said he was amazed at what the Lord did. “I

appreciate the commitment of everyone who played a role in inviting people to read, listen, or watch salvation messages,” Okindoh said. “Above all, I praise God for leading the division to this new method of evangelism during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Although English was the primary language, the message was translated into various dialects to reach as many people as possible. The theme of the campaign was “More Than Conquerors.” Speakers were the ECD executive secretary, Alain Coralie, and his wife, Caroline.

Commenting on the series theme, Coralie reminded listeners of their identity in Christ. “We must rise above the challenges of this life and the limitations that the world is trying to put on us,” Coralie said. “I urge everybody to find their identity in Christ, who enables His children to be overcomers.”

According to Coralie, the COVID-19 pandemic has helped shake God’s people from their spiritual lethargy, and he invited them to

“More Than Conquerors” evangelistic series speakers Caroline and Alain Coralie (left) with host Night Abuto.

Photo: East-Central Africa Division 6

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get involved in preaching the gospel.

In this context, Coralie said, “the media are the best tool of the hour.”

Speaking of nurture and retention of new members, Coralie reminded listeners of the division motto: “Win one, and lose none.” “Baptism is not the final goal; our call is to make disciples, true followers of Christ,” he emphasized as he invited local congregations to ground new believers in Christ through Bible study and active service.

During the past five years ECD has grown exponentially, exceeding 4.5 million members. ECD president Blasious Ruguri called it “a miracle from God,” saying he attributes such growth to following Christ’s method of meeting people’s needs. “I have seen that church members are thirsty for serving others,” he said.

According to Ruguri, church members have worked together with their leaders to meet needs.

“Our church members and our institutions touched the real needs of the people by distributing food to the hungry, clothes to the naked, goats and cows to the community; and they paid compassionate visits to patients in hospitals,” Ruguri said. “We allowed God to lead us, and the results surprised not only the world but ourselves as well.”

ECD leaders decided to leverage media opportunities for evangelism at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, when it became apparent that physical gatherings were becoming impossible. The first evangelistic series was conducted in the Democratic Republic of Congo and other French-speaking countries.

Leaders reported that more than 30,000 were baptized.

News in Depth

Philippines Adventists Soldier On After Four Consecutive Typhoons

Volunteers keep praying and reaching out to thousands every day.

By Edward Rodriguez, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, and Adventist World

The typhoon-battered Philippines was still reeling from the devastations brought about by Typhoons Pepito (World Meteorological Office name: Saudel), Quinta (Molave), and Rolly (Goni). Then Typhoon Ulysses (Vamco) ravaged the already wind-wracked and rain-drenched eastern and northern regions of the country on November 11, 2020.

As the latest typhoon entered the country’s area of responsibility, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration(PAGASA) raised its threat level to storm signal number 3 over provinces that were in its path. People in flood-prone areas were evacuated, but most were still taken by surprise at the torrential amount of water the typhoon poured over Luzon’s central and northern parts, destroying crops, infrastructure, and livelihood.

Typhoon Vamco left roads impassable because of flooding and toppled electrical and communication towers. In the mountainous regions of Sierra Madre, several landslides were reported, making relief operations difficult. Major dams across the northern region overflowed, causing flooding as high as 15 meters (50 feet) in downstream towns and barangays, or neighborhoods.

The Philippine government reported 73 deaths and 19 people missing after Typhoon Vamco.

Saw Samuel, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), called every member across the territory to pray for the safety and comfort of those affected by this typhoon. “It is during this time that we seek earnestly for God’s protection from the

Floodwaters rose around one of the dozens of Seventh-day Adventist church buildings affected by a series of devastating typhoons in the Philippines.

Photo: Southern Asia-Pacific Division News

wrath of such natural disasters. No matter how big the storms that will come our way, we always remember that God is our shelter,” he said.

ADVENTISTS RESPOND TO DISPLACED FAMILIES

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in the Philippines has been on the ground since the preceding three typhoons hit, responding to affected individuals and families. As soon as Typhoon Vamco left the Philippines, the ADRA team conducted rapid assessments in areas affected to identify the community’s primary needs and address those needs accordingly.

ADRA Philippines responded through local Adventist Community Services teams with funding from ADRA and individual donors, reaching more than 500 families. It extended 250,000 Philippine Pesos (about US$5,200) to the Northeast Luzon Mission of the Adventist Church, where ACS is spearheading relief operations in the region.

According to ADRA officials, food, medicine, blankets, and potable water are the families’ primary needs in evacuation sites.

DIGITAL EVANGELISTS KEEP SERVING

The Philippines is home to more than 150 volunteers known as “prayer warriors.” This group includes digital missionaries praying around the clock for requests coming from all around the world.

Moderators also answer e-mails, follow chat conversations, provide pastoral care, and give Bible studies.

According to local church leaders, most of these digital missionaries come from areas greatly affected by the series of typhoons that recently hit the Philippines.

Despite their ordeal, digital missionaries remain faithful to their commitment to pray and fulfill their Christian duties, team leader Ace Vhirsul reported.

“A lot of our missionaries were affected by the typhoon, but despite the interrupted power and intermittent Internet connection, volunteers remained resourceful to make sure they can perform the tasks assigned to them,” he said.

According to regional church leaders, digital missionaries reach more than 4,000 people every day.

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News Focus North American Division (NAD)

1,264,347 Membership of the North American Division (NAD) as of September 30, 2020

60 The percentage of tithe received in the NAD through online giving at adventistgiving.org following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the outbreak the number stood at 22 percent.

“We are God’s children, His brothers and sisters, His sons and daughters.

We need the Holy Spirit as much as a child that is hungry needs a piece of bread for sustenance.”

—G. Alexander Bryant, president, North American Division, during the divine worship service on October 31, 2020, at the virtual NAD year-end meeting, which focused on the theme “Come, Holy Spirit.” Bryant invited members in the division territory to follow the Holy Spirit’s moving and rise up to do the work that God has called the church to do.

The Spiritual Depot A house-church-type ministry that caters primarily to Mandarin-speaking Chinese in metro Vancouver, Canada.

Many of them are international students separated from their families and culture. Friday night meetings feature home-cooked Chinese food, lively music, and messages of hope. Weekly Bible study groups invite participants to share their burdens and meet the God of Scripture. (^-)

726

Number of registered participants—nearly triple the number of attendees of past conventions— who joined in the virtual Society of Adventist Communicators convention held October 14 and 15, 2020. Topics covered included “Streaming for Pastors,” “Communication + Social Justice,” “Seventhday Adventists and the Movies,” “Thou Shalt Not Steal: Copyright Law and the Boogeyman,” among others. The recorded presentations can be viewed at www.adventistcommunicator.com/2020-recorded-sessions.

Photo: Canadian Adventist Messenger 8

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Perspective

By Anneliese Wahlman

Photo: Photo: fizkes / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Speaking Truth in Love What does it mean?

Most Christians believe in speaking the truth in love. We like the idea of love in all areas, but we’re not going to bring it to certain conversations. It’s like we get this selective moral amnesia: we’ll argue for morality, while leaving morality behind in the way we treat those with whom we disagree.

Jesus told us that as the end of time draws nearer, the love of many will grow cold. But He also exhorted us to endure in love. He knew that nobody forgets their opinions, but we do forget to bring love out of the dark corners of our hearts and into our conversations. So in light of that exhortation, let me share six principles of loving communication.

AFFIRM WHERE YOU CAN

If we want to have a constructive, helpful discussion about anything with a person of opposite opinion, we have to learn to find common ground. People listen and can become quite open to critique when they feel understood. We can do this by finding points of agreement wherever we can. We already know what divides us. Let’s also remember what connects us.

LISTEN TO UNDERSTAND, NOT TO RESPOND

We all know listening is important, but usually what we call listening is only us waiting for our turn to talk. Real listening means keeping our mouths shut, resisting the urge to interrupt, and thinking about what people are actually saying. By truly listening, we can learn new things about the opposing side’s view and also help the person we’re talking with feel safe and more willing to hear what we have to say.

MAYBE DON’T RESPOND

When we’re talking about something controversial, sometimes the best thing to do is not to share our opinion at all. We become the most teachable when we feel the most loved, and people feel loved when they feel heard. So sometimes the best thing to do is let someone share their point of view and save our opinion for another day.

DON’T BE RUDE, SARCASTIC, OR ARGUMENTATIVE

We live in a society that values comebacks and clapbacks over kindness and courtesy. We applaud the guy with the last word. But as author Bob Goff puts it: “No one has ever been argued into a change of heart.” The moment a conversation turns argumentative or we start making fun at the expense of someone’s ideals or values, the chances of

actually convincing them of the validity of our view drops drastically.

GIVE MORE GRACE THAN EVER WHEN COMMUNICATING ONLINE

In addition to not being mean when communicating online, we need to be intentional about giving lots of grace, both when writing our own posts and when interpreting others’. Let’s be kinder and more understanding than we think we need to be, especially online.

COME WITH HUMILITY AND EMPATHY

The bus driver who worked for the boarding academy I attended once said in a worship talk, “We sin the most when we’re right.” As we talk with others, let’s be humble. It is possible to be wrong. We can make an idol out of our own rightness, and when we do, we start treating each other horribly. Let’s not make an idol out of our certainty.

Even if someone is wrong (because there are absolute truths), believe the best about their heart. Remember it’s possible for someone to have pure motives and make wrong conclusions. But shaming them for those conclusions won’t help correct them.

Let’s endure in love.

Anneliese Wahlman is a creative writer for Lightbearers.

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Focus

Birthday Reboot Grace, Gratefulness, and New Beginnings

“We sometimes encounter people, even perfect strangers, who begin to interest us at first sight, somehow suddenly, all at once, before a word has been spoken.”—Fyodor Dostoyevsky1

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any who heard the words of Jesus and saw His deeds felt a stirring in their hearts they had never experienced before. Nicodemus, a well-connected Jewish leader, honored member of the Sanhedrin, and respected Pharisee, was one of them. Like many other Jews living in Palestine at that time, he waited for the arrival of the Messiah. His knowledge of the Scriptures was profound. He had dedicated his life to the study of torah, the law.

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THE CONVERSATION

John describes the nighttime encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3:1-21. Nicodemus sought out the young Rabbi from Nazareth under the protection of darkness. His heart had been moved—and yet he wasn’t quite sure. He must have carefully thought about his opening statement: “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him” (John 3:2).

Nicodemus was courteous and respectful. “Rabbi,” meaning “my master, my teacher,” was the appropriate way to address a spiritual leader. Note that Nicodemus was hedging his bets. He didn’t address Jesus as “Messiah” or “Christ”— even though he recognized the source of Jesus’ signs and wonders as ultimately pointing back to God. Jesus wasn’t sidetracked by titles or flowery language. His response

was direct and left no room for uncertainty, introduced by an emphatic assertion: “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (verse 3). In the biblical text Jesus picked up on a verb used in Nicodemus’ introduction describing the ability of Jesus to “do” these signs. Jesus’ response used the same verb with the negative stating emphatically that, except for being born again, one was not able to see God’s kingdom.

Nicodemus knew about “doing.”

As a good Pharisee he was committed to “doing” (or “keeping”) the law—but what did it mean to be born again, or “from above,” as other versions translate?

The figure of a new birth was not entirely foreign to Nicodemus.

Judaism used it to describe the experience of new converts.

Jesus’ very personal and pointed response, however, hit a nerve in Photo: Alex Hockett

Nicodemus. “He felt that he needed no change,” writes Ellen White.

“Hence his surprise at the Saviour’s words. He was irritated by their close application to himself. The pride of the Pharisee was struggling against the honest desire of the seeker after truth.”2 Nicodemus’ response to Jesus’ opening statement expresses some of this irritation. Isn’t it nonsensical to say that an old man (like me) should be born a second time?

Let’s rather talk about prophecy and theology.

Jesus did not, however, want to talk about prophecy or theology. He wanted to talk about Nicodemus and his need to be born of water and the Spirit (cf. verse 5).

We can relate to Nicodemus’ reaction. We too dislike it when someone comes too close for comfort—and especially if that person is Jesus pushing us out of our comfort zone.

Nicodemus didn’t turn around and disappear into the darkness of the night. He stayed as Jesus talked about this new beginning. He asked questions (verse 9) and paid close attention. When Jesus introduced the example of the raised serpent in the wilderness, he began to connect the dots. Leaving Jesus that evening, he was ready to continue his search.

when he brings a large container of a costly mixture of myrrh and aloe to be used in the burial of Jesus.

Right at the end, when most of the disciples had fled, Nicodemus stands up to publicly declare his allegiance to Christ—another win for the gentle Healer from Nazareth, who had taken time to meet a man who genuinely searched for the Messiah.

THE DECISION

NEW BEGINNINGS

Evangelists and professors of practical theology have long studied the art of helping people to make decisions. Jesus seemed to adapt His approach to the needs and the situation of a particular person. To some He simply said, “Follow Me” (Matt. 4:19; 8:22; etc.).

Others He left with a question.

We have no conclusive biblical record how His conversation with Nicodemus ended.

Ellen White offers some helpful insights: “Not through controversy and discussions is the soul enlightened. We must look and live.

Nicodemus received the lesson, and carried it with him. He searched the Scriptures in a new way, not for the discussion of a theory, but in order to receive life for the soul. He began to see the kingdom of heaven as he submitted himself to the leading of the Holy Spirit.”3 Nicodemus’ decision must have grown over time. Following his encounter with Jesus in the early part of Jesus’ ministry, he disappears from the radar of the biblical authors except for a brief reference in John 7:50-52, where he reminds his fellow leaders that, based on biblical law, Jesus should not be condemned without a proper hearing and trial. He doesn’t garner “likes” for this statement from his colleagues.

But Nicodemus doesn’t seem to care, for the next time we meet him in the biblical text is in John 19:39

Wherever we meet our Saviour— on a road to Damascus, during a clandestine nightly encounter, in a family circle worshipping together, or in a classroom studying mathematics or history—He is ready to reach out to us in ways that we can understand. He doesn’t bully. He doesn’t manipulate. He just invites.

Once we recognize our need of His grace, our hearts begin to burst with gratefulness. Something new begins to grow. A new birth leads to new beginnings. We’re eager to share this gift with those around us. We’re ready to become a blessing to our world. We’re excited to go wherever He leads. For some that may mean changing cultures and countries. For others it means the quiet, steady, committed service they offer as Sabbath School teachers or deacons or musicians or elders in a local congregation.

For all of us it’s a daily reminder of His Creatorship—for only He can make us new.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Cor. 5:17).

Online at www.goodreads.com/quotes/92639-we-sometimesencounter-people-even-perfect-strangers-who-begin-to.

2 Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages (Mountain View, Calif.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1898, 1940), p. 171.

3 Ibid., p. 175.

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Gerald A. Klingbeil serves as an associate editor of Adventist World.

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Focus

Looking Out for Each Other We are best primed for new beginnings when we pay close attention to all of the things that make us whole. Mental health is a big part of that. Due to the drastic changes we are all experiencing as the pandemic continues, it’s so important for us to seek help and incorporate the advice of medical professionals as we need to. We are all in this together. —Editors

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he impact of COVID-19 on mental health continues to grow. Canadian researchers, who track data from 56 studies on COVID-19 and mental health around the globe, have connected the disease to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma across a variety of demographic groups.

These conditions are not unexpected as people navigate social distancing, economic uncertainty, grief, and fear. My colleagues in behavioral health and I are 12

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Coping with this pandemic together

helping patients and the local community manage feelings related to the pandemic to keep more serious depression and anxiety at bay.

Psychiatrist Chad Lennon, who practices with me at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, agrees. “We are in an unprecedented time right now, and most people are not sure how to feel. It’s easy to ignore how we feel when we are dealing with something we have never experienced before, and the aftereffects can be detrimental.”

He says strong emotional reactions can emerge after becoming ill with COVID-19 or caring for someone with the disease. Health-care workers, first responders, and others at risk on the front lines can experience trauma.

For individuals indirectly affected by COVID-19, all the changes in daily life can still be significant stressors.

Stress can impact individuals over time, even if they do not realize it.

People react differently. Some people may experience changes in their sleeping patterns, changes in their

Photo: Sneksy / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

eating habits, difficulty concentrating, and certainly fear and worry about their health or the health of their loved ones. And those with chronic health conditions may also see health conditions worsening.

THE TOLL ON CHILDREN AND SENIORS

COVID-19 can weigh especially heavily on children’s emotional wellness. Many don’t fully grasp what’s happening. Their school routine and social lives have been turned upside down. Therefore parents need to explain what’s happening in words children can understand.

Parents must make sure children know that they’re safe and that it’s OK to feel upset.

I urge parents to watch children for signs of excessive irritability. Some kids may start acting younger than their age, talk about having a hard time sleeping, or experience nightmares.

They may also avoid things that they previously enjoyed. If these behaviors interfere with their daily life or family dynamics, contact, where available, mental health or primary-care providers or another trusted counselor.

For older adults, who have an increased physical risk of contracting COVID-19, there also are extra mental health considerations. One is the impact of added conflict with loved ones who urge seniors to stay home. These are awkward conversations to have with our elderly loved ones, where the roles are reversed.

Families need to keep a united front, with everyone sharing the same messages about social distancing.

Reassuring and socializing with older loved ones also are important. Call them, FaceTime, interact, and help them feel connected.

TIPS FOR MENTAL WELL-BEING

I recommend trying a variety of strategies to help maintain mental well-being through these challenging times.

Eat well. Make sure to eat a balanced diet. Avoid the temptation to keep unhealthy comfort foods in the house. Fruits and vegetables are especially important, particularly those with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals. Elizabeth Bilodeau, a registered dietitian for Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, recommends citrus fruits, spinach, red bell pepper, and kiwi to reinforce immunity.

Get enough rest. Try to go to bed at the same time and try to make that bedtime earlier. Waking up at a regular time also is important. Routine is important even though it’s disrupted.

Trust. Worrying about COVID-19 does not mean spiritual weakness. Trusting in God and His power to save,

heal, and comfort is important to remember; it is the believer’s unique coping tool. Actively focus on God’s power instead of the pain and suffering from COVID-19.

With time, while the suffering may still be there, so will God’s ever-present peace. Remember those who have endured tribulation in the Bible and learn from how they weathered challenges with God by their side.

Exercise. At least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week helps stay physically healthy and boosts mental health. In winter, aim to get activity minutes in natural sunlight and pay close attention to changes in mood or energy levels. Seek help if you have symptoms such as irritability or uncontrollable oversleeping that lasts two weeks or longer.

Limit media intake. Overexposure to news stories or sifting through mixed messages on social media can trigger traumatic stress symptoms. Read or watch just enough news to stay informed, then move on to something enjoyable.

Stay connected with people. Even though we are physically distant, we need social connections now more than ever. Technology can be a great tool to keep in touch with friends and family. Check in with loved ones several times a week to keep lines of communication open. In this time of isolation, it can be hard to connect, but it’s important to talk to friends and family members about how you feel. They may feel the same and you can work through it together.

Create a self-care kit. Having a list of activities or items that bring joy can make all the difference in helping to cope as we progress through this crisis. Do whatever brings hope and inspiration.

Be kind to yourself. Don’t feel as though you must tackle home renovations, be the best homeschool teacher, learn a new language, or any of the other things you may see on social media. Do the best you can. Focus on keeping you and your family healthy.

Seek help. If you need to talk to someone, many health-care professionals offer telehealth and online counseling services. If you don’t know where to start, ask your primary-care doctor for help.

As we process this experience that is COVID-19, know that we are not going through this alone. We will heal from this together.

Marissa Leslie is a board-certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist who worships virtually every week to cope, as many of us are, and practices in Rockville, Maryland, United States.

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Focus

We asked four young Adventists about their hopes and dreams for their church in 2021. Here are their answers.

Our Commission We have work to do.

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he year 2020 was one of the most unexpected years for most of us, starting with wars, famines, earthquakes, natural disasters, and ending with a global pandemic that has shaken the world, turning every aspect upside down.

Jesus warned: “All these are the beginning of sorrows” (Matt. 24:8). But the Son of man will come on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (verse 30). What a glorious day that will be! Imagine a life with no sorrow, no pain, no tears because all former things have passed away, even the ripple effect of COVID-19. He said it; we can believe it.

When I look forward to 2021, I ask God to renew my faith and the faith of those around me, including those in my church. Church has been one of my greatest anchors. It not only provides the fellowship and warmth of a family—it has been a place of truth, where I can study deeper the love of Him who first loved me.

I hope to see a church family that fulfills the Great Commission to preach the good news to all people (Matt. 28:18, 19). I hope we can allow Him who began a good work in us to see us through until the day of His return (Phil.

Imagine That

Turning dreams into reality

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y hope for the church is for it to become even more focused on being welcoming and kind to its members and visitors.

With people slowly emerging from the isolation of COVID–19, churches should be places where they can once again feel the embrace of Christlike love.

I struggle with the uncertainty of human behavior. I find it tough to look for love, value, and acceptance in others, only to see it fail or fall short. We’re all only human. We all face our own challenges and struggles to meet the needs of others.

But the desire to give and receive love makes us who we are. After all, we were made in the image of God, and God is love! We should show that love to others. If we fail to show it, perhaps we don’t understand Christ or Christianity.

Imagine this: it’s Sabbath morning, you’re getting ready to go to church. As you get into the car you’re not anxious about bumping into the elder you think is upset with you after a heated church board meeting—because that won’t happen. You aren’t thinking about your Sabbath School study group judging you for not completing the lesson study—because that won’t happen.

You arrive at church and are greeted by smiles and someone ask-

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1:6). I hope for us to manifest the life of Jesus, even though we are “hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor. 4:8, 9). That we may look at His Word afresh and be renewed, to carry on the special work that we have been called to do. I pray for unity and that we may all be one, just as He is one with the Father (John 17:22).

Most of all, I pray that as a church in 2021, with renewed vigor, we’ll be reminded of His promise: “Surely I am coming quickly” (Rev. 22:20). Let’s unanimously respond with shouts of acclamation: “Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”

Ellen Njeri, recently married, lives in Nairobi, Kenya.

ing how your week went. Someone approaches and says, “Thanks for helping me fix my garden fence; you’re a lifesaver.

I thank God for you.” In the service you feel comfortable enough to share a prayer request because you’re not afraid that the congregation will judge you.

After the service you get lots of invitations to join fellow believers at their home for lunch or just to hang out. You trust them the same way you trust a family member or friend.

Why do we have to imagine this? Surely this happens in churches all over the world.

This is my dream for the church, to become more welcoming and show genuine Christian love to a world that seriously needs it.

Andrew Lombart serves as a careers coach to university students in Canterbury, United Kingdom. He is discovering a passion and call to ministry.

Getting Together We need each other.

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hope that 2021 will bring about real and personal change for everyone in our church family and result in true togetherness.

We often build on a foundation we didn’t build. As a church we stand on the solid foundation that our Adventist forebears built. We cannot, however, just look at the past. I hope we will take the initiative to read the Bible for ourselves and ask the Spirit to guide us as we study together.

An underlying current of racism is present in our societies, and may appear even in some Adventist congregations. I hope that in 2021 we will be able to truly see each other and embrace one another in true togetherness.

I wish 2021 will be a year in which we care genuinely for our neighbors in our communities. If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it’s that people need people. We saw that in something as simple as people coming out every Thursday evening to show appreciation to the medical professionals who served on the front lines of battling the pandemic, as happened in the United Kingdom where I live. We enjoyed stepping out to see other smiling faces.

Many have struggled during the pandemic when families haven’t been able to visit older family members and check up on them. I hope that next year we can all work together to build a stronger connection between generations.

As parents let’s invest more to help our children connect to their Saviour and their church family..

I wish that we can each be true to ourselves. Instead of reflecting inward, maybe we can use this time of isolation to look outward. After all, Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:39).

Last, like everyone else I wish that 2021 will bring us closer to the return of Jesus Christ. I hope that we will all be better prepared to meet Him.

Preethy Christopher, 33, lives in the United Kingdom with her husband and daughter.

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His Church, His Identity

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hurch: a social organism, a place, a building, a people—these are some of the attributes associated with the idea of church. While all these are correct, the definition that most closely relates to what we find in sacred text is “the body of Christ.”

We are living in an era of unprecedented technological advances and innovations. This allows, at least for those digitally connected, for maximum access with minimum effort, at an affordable expense for practically anything—from how we get our food to where we get pursued. It’s a universe of apps, channels, pages, profiles, and an unending array of links. Fortunately or unfortunately, these have categorically modified our lifestyles, shifted our priorities, and shaped our idea of the world as a whole, including that of the church.

Despite the ubiquity of the gospel, there still seems to be a disconnect between the church and those it seeks to reach. Church ministers and congregations passionately continue to embark on missions of seeking and saving those who are lost.

This statement, pronounced decades ago, continues to be true. Also true of the times we live in is the undeniable reality of “cancel culture” and an era of “spirituality” over religion. Cancel culture guarantees that individuals, institutions, and organizations are susceptible to being ostracized and marginalized should they choose to stand by values and morals that do not align with those of popular belief. Spirituality over religion guarantees that individuals who know the Word but choose to apply only certain parts of it have an alternative.

The church must embrace its identity as the body of Christ regardless of the polarization prophesied in the Bible. In line with Christ’s mission we are to invite those who genuinely try to live a God-seeking life preparing for the kingdom.

My hope for the church in 2021 is that it unapologetically embraces its identity, which is Christ. Everything else will fall into place. Solutions to issues of race, music, worship styles, even leadership will become more apparent because God is not a God of confusion (1 Cor. 14:33).

We have to reevaluate and align with Him. The time is now, for the Son of man is even at the door. So church, let’s boldly embrace the attributes of Him who died so that we could take on His identity.

Naomy J. Rodrigues, originally from Cape Verde, is a 2020 graduate of Washington Adventist University. She lives in Maryland, United States, and will attend law school this year.

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Millennial Voices

Faith and Courage

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eptember 7, 2020, marked the beginning of a journey with 13 of my colleagues exploring fundamental biblical truths as believed and taught by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. All of them had decided to commit more deeply to serving God, His people, and the larger community.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church in India has made a provision for employees who have not received a formal education in the areas of Bible, history, and theology from a Seventh-day Adventist perspective to do so before they serve the church. This “enrichment program” is designed to educate people regarding the beliefs and heritage of the Adventist Church, and to inspire them to integrate Christian values into their lives as they serve. I was privileged to teach one of the classes this year.

On my first day of classes I asked my students a vital question: “What do you believe? And why do you believe so?” I invited them to write down their answers somewhere as we would refer back to them later. At first there was silence. Then the brave ones voiced their opinions. We listened to a variety of responses.

We noticed that many of our beliefs have been shaped by people in authority. We often struggle to recognize what has shaped our core convictions. I told my students that for the next four weeks we would study many wonderful things about God, but all this would make sense only if we believed. Faith and belief in God lie at the very core of Christianity. Our faith in God and His living Word instills love, ignites hope, and gives strength in difficult times. Faith enables us to recognize the glory of God. Just as Jesus told Martha, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you will see the glory of God?” (John 11:40), I urged my colleagues to believe because they themselves had seen God’s blessings and experienced them firsthand. We decided to endeavor to

“What do you believe? And why do you believe so?”

have a personal walk with Jesus, to seek Him wholeheartedly, and to desire to behold His glory.

The next four weeks were spent in rigorous study of the beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I recognized the huge task before me and spent more time sitting at the feet of Jesus, learning from Him, praying for wisdom every step of the way. This class was about more than just informing the mind. I wanted to give my students a glimpse of eternity and help them see the possibility of a joyous life in a personal relationship with Christ.

On the last day of class we revisited the two questions I had started with: “What do you believe? And why do you believe so?” I appreciated the answers that were shared with the class. Some of my colleagues had worked in various schools and companies outside the church. I was blessed to see their desire to observe the Sabbath, their dedication and commitment to selfless service.

As we ended our class, I shared some good advice from one of my professors at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies: “Courage.” I urged them to take heart and continue serving God to the best of their abilities despite the challenges they faced. As nursing professors, administrative assistants, maintenance supervisors, and accountants they would all have their fair share of challenges. But I reminded them to remain faithful to the very end, because our reward is with our righteous judge, our God and Saviour.

As we face an uncertain future and the end of time, our faith, too, will be tested. Our only strength will be in God. Faith enables us to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and courage helps us endure the night.

Faith and courage.

Beersheba Jacob serves as the human resources coordinator and assistant to the vice president at Lowry Memorial College, Bangalore, India. She is married to Andrew.

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Global View

Looking Forward Christ will show us the way.

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he year 2020 will certainly never be forgotten—with a global pandemic, social unrest, natural disasters, political and economic instability, and more. Many of us were glad to finally put this year behind us.

But can we expect any better in 2021? Little did we know, just one year ago, what the past 12 months would bring. No one could have anticipated how swiftly life would change for us all.

And what about the church?

How have we weathered the storm of 2020, and what can we expect for the future? I’m happy to report that in spite of the many challenges of this past year, through His Spirit God’s mission has continued to move forward.

As the coronavirus pandemic spread across the world in early 2020, churches, schools, workplaces, communities, entire countries, were locked down in an effort to stop its spread. With restrictions in place, we could no longer gather in churches for Sabbath School, worship services, and fellowship meals; youth could no longer meet for Adventist Youth meetings; Pathfinders and Adventurers could no longer enjoy their campouts and other activities. Large evangelistic meetings could no longer be held in public venues, and many health outreach and other public programs had to be reconsidered.

GOD’S WORK CONTINUES

Nevertheless, God’s work continued. With energy and creativity, church leaders and members alike thought of new and creative ways to continue spreading God’s Word and bringing together His people in a variety of ways.

A series of video messages, titled Dear Coronavirus, was conceived by communication leaders in Europe

Photo: Ricardo Gomez Angel

and was soon translated into numerous languages and sent around the world. Social media was used in an unprecedented way to send out messages of hope and encouragement. Division presidents spoke directly to members within their territories through video messages filled with spiritual nourishment.

Local churches that had never before considered livestreaming their services began streaming. Evangelistic meetings were moved online, with tens of thousands of people watching each night. Virtual choirs were soon providing much-appreciated music online. Podcasts reached many with messages of hope. Creative programming for children and youth—including Sabbath School programs, Vacation Bible Schools, even virtual youth camps—was provided over the Internet. Zoom and similar platforms were used for both small- and large-group meetings.

We also praise God that in many areas, in-person ministry was able to continue, with proper safety precautions, of course. The Adventist Development and Relief Agency continued to provide muchneeded relief to many vulnerable communities. Many local churches provided food to those most in need. Medical missionaries on the front lines continued their important work of ministering to those who were sick and provided excellent health education.

These are just some of the many ways that God’s precious people have been proclaiming truth, love, righteousness, and hope. The Holy Spirit has motivated and directed God’s people around the world to use every means possible to proclaim His precious message.

How thrilling to know that even during these difficult times the three angels’ messages have been circling the globe.

NEW METHODS, SAME MESSAGE AND MISSION

Looking toward the future, we can rest assured that no matter what may come, God will provide the ways and means for His mission to continue moving forward.

Much of what we have learned, and the creative methods we have used during this pandemic, will continue to be employed in the days to come.

These circumstances have simply given us yet more ways to reach the world for Christ and provide ongoing ministry opportunities.

While our methods may need to adapt to changing circumstances, our God-given message and mission remain the same—to reach out to a hurting, confused world with hope and healing, proclaiming the three angels’ messages, and inviting everyone to worship their Creator, to accept His righteousness by faith, and to surrender fully and completely to Him. God’s message, His teaching contained in His Word, the Bible, is timeless. It has weathered countless storms down through the ages.

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isa. 40:8).

BUILD ON THE ROCK

There’s no doubt why Christ invites us to build on rock. Closing His sermon on the mount, Jesus said, “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods

Looking toward the future, we can rest assured that no matter what may come, God will provide the ways and means for His mission to continue moving forward. came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall” (Matt. 7:24-27).

Ellen White offered this timely counsel: “There are stormy times before us, but let us not utter one word of unbelief or discouragement. Let us remember that we bear a message of healing to a world filled with sin-sick souls.”* Friends, we’ve been through stormy times last year, and we know from God’s sure prophetic Word that more are to come. Yet He who promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5), bids us to build on the Rock, then go and reach the world for Him. He will show us the way. * Ellen G. White, Christian Service (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1925), p. 136.

Ted N. C. Wilson is president of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church. Additional articles and commentaries are available from the president’s office on Twitter: @pastortedwilson and on Facebook: @Pastor Ted Wilson.

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Devotional

“I Don’t Know You”

An often-overlooked fact of biblical eschatology

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Photo: phive2015 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

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s a child I enjoyed a series of biblical cartoons that were very well done, both for their artistic quality and for their respectful adaptation of the biblical text. These cartoons re-created various stories from the New Testament. Now that I am a father, I still find myself watching these Bible lessons from time to time with my children.

One of the stories included in this animated series is the well-known parable of the 10 virgins (Matt. 25:1-13).

Toward the end of the parable, when the bridegroom addresses the foolish virgins, we hear an answer that in many ways captures the spirit of the biblical text: “If you are my friends, why didn’t you come when I announced it? . . . I don’t know you; I’m sorry.”

In what follows, I focus briefly on some linguistic nuances of the Greek text of Matthew 25:11, 12, more specifically, on the significance contained in the expression “I don’t know you.”

DETAILS MATTER

The scene described in Jesus’ parable is characterized by deep solemnity. This can be seen in the use of the present tense in the original language when narrating a past situation. Scholars call this linguistic feature “historical present,” a temporal shift that adds a vivid sense to a scene.1 Readers notice the emphasis, wonder what is happening, and pay closer attention.

Additionally, verse 11 contains the double mention of the word “Lord” as part of the plea of the five virgins who missed the coming of the bridegroom: “Lord, Lord, open to us.”

The literal translation of the beginning of verse 12 is, “But answering, he said.” This is the way how Hebrew people spoke. It doesn’t reflect the typical language use of Classical or Hellenistic Greek. The bridegroom’s response uses the solemn formula, “Assuredly, I say to you,” or “Truly, I tell you,” followed by a form of the Greek verb oida (“know”), which, in this context, attests to the absence of a significant bond between the bridegroom and the five foolish virgins.2 The verb stresses the bewilderment that seems to overwhelm the bridegroom.

CATCHING THE TONE

The translation “I don’t know you,” provided by most modern Bible translations, is appropriate. As is sometimes the case, however, this translation does not fully reflect the strong force of the statement in the original language.

Some modern translations offer helpful alternatives.

“I do not know you [we have no relationship],” translates The Amplified Bible.3 The more recent Passion Translation suggests this equivalent: “Do I know you? I can assure you, I don’t

The foolish virgins are not victims of circumstances, but heirs and unavoidable protagonists of their own decisions. even know you!” (TPT).4 Both translations help us to catch the emphatic wording of the original Greek text of Matthew 25:12.

Ellen White’s comments on the parable echo the strong statement contained in the Greek text: “They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live. . . .

In this life they have not entered into fellowship with Christ; therefore they know not the language of heaven, they are strangers to its joy.”5 Later in the chapter she adds: “We cannot keep Christ apart from our lives here, and yet be fitted for His companionship in heaven.”6 The tenor of the groom’s statement therefore does not rest on a stubborn indifference of the bridegroom or on his alleged inability to identify the missing virgins because of the darkness of the night. The foolish virgins are not victims of circumstances, but heirs and unavoidable protagonists of their own decisions. They are architects of their unfortunate reality, because of a lack of an intimate and cherished connection with the One who has to be the essence of every celebration.

The language used in the Bible cartoon offers an unappealable verdict given the complete lack of a close bond with the bridegroom that justifies their participation in the wedding: “If you are my friends, why didn’t you come when I announced it? . . . I don’t know you; I’m sorry.”

Between a prophetic indifference and a last-day frenzy lies the need to deepen our bond with our beloved Master. Matthew 25:12 is a timeless reminder of the vital importance and eternal significance of our daily walk with Jesus.

Some scholars even argue that Matthew’s use of the “historical present” points to key moments in the narrative. See, for instance, S. Wolfgang, “Das Präsens Historicum als makrosyntaktisches Gliederungssignal im Matthäusevangelium,” New Testament Studies 22, no. 4 (1976): p. 475.

2 See W. Bauer, W. F. Arndt, F. W. Gingrich, and F. W. Danker, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, third ed. (University of Chicago Press, 2000), p. 693.

3 From The Amplified Bible, copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987, 2015 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

4 See www.thepassiontranslation.com/scripture-search/?query=Matt+25%3A12. Bible texts credited to TPT are from The Passion Translation. Copyright © 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

5 Ellen G. White, Christ’s Object Lessons (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Pub. Assn., 1900, 1941), pp. 411-413.

6 Ibid., p. 414.

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Leandro J. Velardo is a professor of New Testament on the theology faculty of Universidad Adventista del Plata.

He lives with his family in Libertador San Martín, Entre Ríos, Argentina.

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Faith in Action

A Focus on Children Polish Union Conference opens its first elementary school.

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orty kilometers (about 25 miles) southwest of Warsaw, the capital of Poland, lies the commuter town of Podkowa Leśna.

This small city is surrounded by forest on three sides from the east, south, and north. Since 1959 it’s been home to the Polish Senior College of Theology and Humanities (PCTH), and more recently the School of Foreign Languages—the only Adventist school in a country of 38 million people.

“For decades Adventist parents have dreamed about the possibility of being able to send their child to an Adventist [elementary] school,” says Dorothy PorawskiOrzechowska, the first director of a school program for kindergarten and grades 1-3, located on the college campus since 2015. The enrollment for those grades currently comprises 10 Adventist children and five from the wider Podkowa Leśna community.

In 2018 the curriculum was expanded, and enrollment grew to maximum capacity, with a waiting list of other applicants.

Even at an early age, “Adventist education is a combination of the

Photos: Polish Union Conference

development of social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual capabilities of each child,” says Mirosława Grześkowiak, the current kindergarten and grades 1-3 director.

HOW IT BEGAN

In 2014 it wasn’t difficult for Adventist leaders and church members, already committed to supporting Adventist education at the tertiary level, to also envision opening a primary school. They recognized the challenge: Where do we send our children once they’ve graduated kindergarten, and what will they be taught?

“From the beginning I felt that starting a kindergarten and now a primary school was a step in the right direction,” says Anna SłoneckaPołok, the rector of PCTH. “We took a risk and entered the ‘Jordan River’ with confidence in God’s help, and we can see the positive results” after installing grades 1-3.

The Polish Union Conference, the college (PCTH), ASI Poland, and the Trans-European Division (TED) are now jointly financing the employment of a teacher for children in grades 4-8. The expanded primary school is located on the college campus.

“For the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Poland, this is a historic moment, raising our mission potential to a new level,” says Ryszard Jankowski, Polish Union Conference president. “This is the first Adventist primary school in the fifth most populous member state of the European Union, building on our commitment to Adventist education in Poland, which began first with our college, then the kindergarten, and now a primary school. We could see God’s leading in this project, and only by His guidance were we able to see our dreams become reality,” he says.

AN INTEGRAL PART OF MISSION

With both an Adventist kindergarten and primary school in Podkowa Leśna, what difference will it make to the mission of the Adventist Church? The school has an ever-growing waiting list of children wanting to attend, evidence that the education offered is attractive to local families and establishes a connection to the Adventist Church. For Agata Rubak, kindergarten teacher, it’s all about

mission. “We pray for every child that comes to us and for the whole family,” Rubak says. “Building warm and friendly relationships with both children and their parents provides an open door to share Christ.”

TED education director Daniel Duda describes the opening of the first elementary school in Poland as the dawning of a new era for Adventist education in their region.

“During my visits to the PCTH campus since 2015, it has been inspiring to see the enthusiasm and commitment of teachers and the joy in the eyes of children,” he says.

“We celebrate with them, and we pray not only that the school grows from strength to strength in Christ, but for each child as well.”

This article was first published on the Polish Union Conference website at adwent.pl/rozwoj-edukacjiadwentystycznej-w-polsce/.

Agata Rubak is a kindergarten teacher at the Podkowa Leśna Adventist school.

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he Seventh-day Adventist Church’s first missionaries arrived in Egypt in 1899, but they had little success.

By the autumn of 1908, 10 Adventists were in Egypt, and three of them were missionaries; only seven local believers had been won in almost 10 years. In September 1908, however, two new missionaries arrived: George and Mary-Ann Keough.

Egyptian church leaders stand in the street outside of Keough’s house in Beni Adi in 1968. The house uniquely was on both sides of the street linked by a bridging section.

Looking Back

The Power of Real Christianity George and Mary-Ann Keough’s incarnational ministry

GEORGE AND MARY-ANN KEOUGH

George Keough was born in Scotland and raised in Northern Ireland. Mary-Ann was from Yorkshire, England. Both regions are known for producing people who were strongminded and willful. They would need stubbornness and self-belief in their assignment.

George Keough quickly grasped (as he later recalled) that Adventist mission work in Egypt “was only for expatriates with no influence on the local people.”* On arriving, he was told not to learn Arabic—that there was no point, because local people could not be won.

Deciding to speak to them in their own language, Keough did learn Arabic. He was eventually able to both speak and write it fluently; he also learned the form of Arabic spoken by the fellahin, the peasants who made up 90 percent of Egypt’s population.

Fervently desiring to find a way to connect with them, in 1911 the Keoughs left Cairo and moved deep into Upper Egypt. Their new home was Asyut, 250 miles up the Nile. This was a huge step for Keough and his family (a son had been born in 1909). Very few Europeans lived in Asyut. In fact, because it lacked archaeological remains, Europeans rarely visited the region.

The Keoughs were exceptionally isolated.

REACHING OUT

Evangelistic opportunities were limited.

Proselytizing Muslims was against the law, and witnessing to native Coptic Christians was difficult because of their tightly knit communities. In 1912, however, God intervened.

Keough was contacted by Yacoub Bishai Yacoub, a Christian and an important figure in his village of Beni Adi. Convicted by the fourth commandment, Yacoub and his family had started keeping Photos: Provided by Author

the seventh-day Sabbath. Hearing of a European doing likewise, he wrote to Keough, asking him to visit Beni Adi. Soon Keough baptized Yacoub and his son.

Thereafter, in Beni Adi, Keough had on his side a patriarch with authority over his extended family and status in the wider community.

Between November 1912 and May 1913, Keough baptized 18 men and seven women, more than doubling the entire Adventist membership in Egypt.

Keough used the kinship networks of those whom he had baptized and began working around Beni Adi. Another 16 people were baptized by 1917. Churches were organized in the villages of Beni Adi, Beni Shaaran, Masarah, and Tatalya, and in the city of Asyut.

These baptism numbers might seem insignificant in much of the world. In the Middle East they were unprecedented at the time, and rarely equaled since. How did it happen?

INCARNATIONAL MINISTRY

George Keough tried to embody Christ to people who were, he knew, deeply suspicious of his teachings. He had an extraordinary ability to make friends with people, partly because, for him, friendship was not a tactic. People could sense that he was for real.

Decades later, while teaching at Newbold College in his 70s and 80s, George connected with 20-year-old students in ways that younger teachers could not. Adventist believers in Beni Adi today still tell stories handed down from 100 years ago of how this European did what Westerners never did: he came into their mud-brick houses, sat on their dirt floors, spoke to them in their own language, and ate their food.

In Middle Eastern culture, it is unforgivable not to be hospitable.

Many of Keough’s hosts were poor,

so what they offered him was unappetizing, including mish, an Egyptian cheese made by fermenting salty cheese for months or years. The result is a very strong flavor, and, around Asyut at least, a reputation for being worm-ridden. A family in Tatalya treasures the tale of how Keough ate mish with their grandparents and great-grandparents—in spite of the worms they all saw in it.

By eating whatever was put in front of him, Keough honored their hospitality. By not holding himself aloof, but sitting with them, he won their affection. He moved his family, including a young son and baby girl, into Beni Adi, building his own home there. Bandits were common in the area, and the police chief in Asyut warned Keough that he could not protect the four Keoughs. But the Keough family were kept safe because they were part of the community.

ADAPTING TO CONTEXT

George Keough not only spoke to people in their own tongue; he also spoke and wrote it so well that he successfully contextualized both Bible stories and Seventh-day Adventist beliefs in ways that made them both comprehensible and faithful to the original. He made Seventh-day Adventist Christianity authentic to the Egyptian context.

As a result, converts did not make themselves completely alien to their culture, but continued in it. They were able to remain in their villages, rather than being driven out; and they were thus better equipped to witness to the members of their communities.

As a result, Upper Egypt has always been where the Seventh-day Adventist Church is strongest in Egypt. The churches I mention above still exist; I had the privilege of visiting them in 2012. George and Mary-Ann Keough planted enduring churches through their ministry.

George and Mary-Ann Keough photographed soon after their wedding in 1908

THE POWER OF REAL CHRISTIANITY

I heard the story of mish in 2012, when I was also told by an elder of the Beni Adi church what his uncle told him: “In Keough the people saw the real Christianity, not just claiming about Christianity.” Keough wrote in 1943 of his hope that “the good news of a mighty Savior who [is] soon to return to earth” would make “a definite advance” in “the Middle East and North Africa.”

The Seventh-day Adventist Church is still only marginally successful in much of the region, and a “definite advance” will surely need more than Adventist Christianity to be taught. The power of real Christianity will need to be manifested in the lives of those working to proclaim the three angels’ messages. *Quotations come from the Keough Papers in the Roy Graham Library, Newbold College, Special Collections; records in the General Conference Archives; author interviews with Keough’s former students at Newbold, with whom he shared memories of mission service; and author interviews with church members in Egypt.

David J. B. Trim is director of Archives, Statistics, and Research for the world headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.

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Bible Questions Answered

A Day of Rest?

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Is it correct to say that Jesus rested on Sabbath inside the tomb?

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No Bible passage explicitly states that after His death Jesus went into the tomb to rest on the Sabbath. But enough biblical evidence supports that conclusion.

1. JESUS DIED ON FRIDAY

With few exceptions, Christians have always believed that Jesus was crucified on Friday and that He was resurrected on Sunday morning. The biblical evidence supports this chronology of the Crucifixion. According to Matthew the resurrection of Jesus occurred “after the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week” (Matt.

28:1, NIV). Mark indicates that Jesus died “the day before the Sabbath” (Mark 15:42, NIV) and that when the women went to the tomb “very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise” (Mark 16:2, NIV), Jesus had already been resurrected. Luke informs us that when the body of Jesus was placed inside the tomb “the Sabbath was about to begin” (Luke 23:54, NIV) and that the women went home and “rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment” (verse 56, NIV). Luke also indicates that the women went to the tomb “the first day of the week, very early in the morning,” but by then the tomb was empty (Luke 24:1, NIV). Jesus’ resurrection occurred very early Sunday morning. Jesus was indeed in the tomb during the Sabbath.

2. “IT IS FINISHED”: THE WORD

In trying to understand the last words of Jesus on the cross, scholars have looked for an Old Testament background for the expression tetelestai (“It is finished”), from the verb teleō (“complete, fulfill; bring to an end”).

Two main passages have been suggested and both are important for our purpose. The first one is Isaiah 26

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55:11, where the verb sunteleō (“complete, finish”), from the same root family as teleō, is used in the Septuagint (LXX), the Greek translation of the Old Testament. The passage is a proclamation of the reliability, trustworthiness, and irrevocability of the Word of God. Once God utters a word of salvation, that word will not return to Him until what “I willed shall have been accomplished” (LXX). If we take into consideration Isaiah 55:4, the Word in verse 11 has a messianic content. The ultimate Word that God would send out was the Messiah: His Word. If John had this passage in mind, then Jesus, as the Word of God, brought the message of salvation that was effectual and on the cross proclaimed that His redemptive work has been accomplished, finished. He was now ready to return to the Father.

3. “IT IS FINISHED” AND REST

The second Old Testament passage suggested as a background for the verb tetelestai (“It is finished”) is Genesis 2:2, where we again find in the Greek translation of the Old Testament the verb sunteleō (“complete, finish”), but now in the context of creation: “And God finished [Greek: sunteleō] on the sixth day his works which he made, and he ceased on the seventh” (LXX).

Here we find two important ideas also present in John, namely, something is finished—in Genesis Creation and in John redemption—and followed by rest on the seventh day. In John, Jesus’ proclamation (John 19:30) is immediately followed by a reference to the Sabbath: “It was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath” (verse 31, NIV). He indeed rested during the Sabbath after finishing His work of redemption (re-creation), as God rested on the Sabbath after His work of creation. Inside the tomb, God in human flesh rested on the seventh-day Sabbath, instituted by Him for the benefit of humanity (Mark 2:27).

Angel Manuel Rodríguez is retired after a career serving as a pastor, professor, and theologian.

Health & Wellness

The Best Exercise Can it be found only in gyms?

I am 24 years old and discouraged by all that has happened in 2020 with the pandemic and its consequences. My family’s physical and mental health have deteriorated, including weight gain and no regular exercise because gyms were closed. Now financial challenges are such that we can’t afford gym fees. I worry about my parents, who have family histories of cancer and heart disease. What physical activity do you recommend?

M

arch 2020 saw the declaration of the pandemic and all that followed—illness, death, lockdowns, economic collapse, job losses, and school closures. During this time we witnessed an increase in the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, as well as increased domestic violence, pornography, and other addictions. Apart from SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) deaths, preventable deaths increased significantly because many patients with heart disease, stroke, and other infectious diseases were too frightened to seek help at hospitals for fear of contracting COVID-19.

We have some good news despite the problems of the past months.

We recommend walking—no gym fees involved! Ongoing research yields robust evidence that many health outcomes are improved by walking 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day. There is a clear and significant decrease in mortality, specifically for cancer and heart disease, the two conditions you mention. The benefit tops out between 10,000 and 12,000 steps per day, but improves steeply as one gets up to and beyond 8,000 steps daily.1 This form of exercise seems to work for all social groups and improves many health conditions, including the prevention and control of type 2 diabetes, maintaining weight loss, and delaying/preventing dementia onset.

Many years ago our gracious heavenly Father shared a grace-filled, uncomplicated health message through the writings of Ellen White.

She wrote: “Walking, in all cases where it is possible, is the best remedy for diseased bodies, because in this exercise all of the organs of the Photo: Camylla Battani

body are brought into use. . . . There is no exercise that can take the place of walking. By it the circulation of the blood is greatly improved.”2 Science continues to confirm this good advice. God’s Word encourages us: “Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful” (2 Chron. 20:20, NIV).

As we step into this new year, with its unknown and uncharted times ahead, we urge you to make the decision to walk daily for your health, and take your family members with you. You will all enjoy better health; walking together encourages better compliance and accountability, with fewer excuses to skip exercise. It can also be much more fun, and a little healthy competition may encourage our best efforts.

Enjoy being outside whenever possible, but wherever you exercise—in a mall or climbing up and down stairs or on a treadmill—remember, you are never alone. God has promised never to leave or forsake us (Heb. 13:5).

P. F. Saint-Maurice, R. P. Troiano, D. R. Bassett, et al., “Association of Daily Step Count and Step Intensity With Mortality Among U.S, Adults,” Journal of the American Medical Association 323, no. 12 (2020): pp. 1151-1160, doi:10.1001/jama.2020.1382.

2 Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church (Mountain View, Calif.: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1948), vol. 3, p. 78.

1

Peter N. Landless, a board-certified nuclear cardiologist, is director of Adventist Health Ministries at the General Conference.

Zeno L. Charles-Marcel, a board-certified internist, is an associate director of Adventist Health Ministries at the General Conference.

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“Please Stretch Our Supply”

T “May I Tell You a Story?”

BY DICK DUERKSEN

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he village was small and poor, nestled between sugarcane fields high in the mountains of Honduras. A village overflowing with bored children.

“This would be a perfect place for a Vacation Bible School [VBS],” the pastor said. “We have a small church and an open area where children can play games.

Our children need to learn about God’s love. Could you come to our village?”

The mission trip VBS leader stood in the open area, imagining 50 kids playing Bible games and making crafts. The little adobe church would provide an ideal stage where her group of teenage volunteers could teach the kids songs and act out Bible stories.

“I think it will work,” she told the pastor. “See if your members like the idea, and tell us how many kids will come so we can plan for the crafts and gifts.” *** The leader had led scores of Vacation Bible Schools for thousands of children all around the world, and this VBS would be like the others, she thought.

This was going to be a family mission trip, so it would be easy to recruit a dozen teenagers for five days of VBS. The pastor told her to expect 75 to 100 kids, so she began planning for 150.

Crayons, Popsicle sticks, craft paper, silver crowns, paper angels, paper cups,

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and plates. Bible costumes for the teenagers. Spanish song sheets for the teens. And hundreds of other things she knew they would need for the program to be a success.

“Don’t forget the gifts,” she kept telling herself, imagining the bags of goodies the teenagers would hand to each Honduran child on the last day of VBS. Giving those gifts away was always the highlight of the mission trip VBS programs. Special goodies for the girls would include a doll, a stuffed animal, a Bible, a Spanish coloring book, and candy. The boys would get some of the same, but also a toy car or truck, a ball, a funny mask, and more candy. *** “God performed a miracle,” the VBS director told me as the crew drove up to the mountain village Sunday afternoon.

“The customs officers asked why we were bringing so much stuff. When I explained about the VBS program and the gifts, they laughed and waved us through.”

The teenagers checked out the church acoustics and the outdoor playground, then distributed invitations to every house in the village. Everything was ready for Monday afternoon.

The VBS leader, and her 12 teenage assistants, were ready at 1:00 p.m.

Music practiced. Bible costumes adjusted to fit. Felt board ready.

Photo: Dick Duerksen

Lemonade prepared. Then they joined hands in the church and prayed for the kids to come and the program to be wildly successful.

Only 25 kids came. The teens were disappointed, but played the music, put on the Bible story, and served the food with God-size smiles. As the kids ran home, the teens joined hands again, thanked God for a good Monday, and prayed for more kids to come on Tuesday. *** Tuesday there were 50 kids. Seventy came Wednesday and about 100 on Thursday.

“How do we plan for Friday?” one of the teens asked. “Let’s prepare 150 gift bags,” the leader said, “and see who God sends.”

Thursday night everyone on the mission trip spent a couple hours preparing gift bags. Seventy-five for boys and 75 for girls. Everything stuffed in carefully.

Bibles on the bottom, cars and stuffed animals next, candy on top. “Might as well put the sweets right up top,” one of the teenagers said. “That will save them time digging through the rest.”

I joined the VBS on Friday, planning to photograph the music, crafts, and gift-giving party. There were more than 150 kids, and by the gift-giving time we counted 225 children. We were 75 gifts short!

“What shall we do? How do we decide who gets left out? Can we make more gift bags? Could we take some things out and start some new bags?” The teenagers were worried.

“Let’s go into the church and pray,” the leader said. We all followed her into the darkened sanctuary. Her prayer was simple and trusting. “Lord, we’ve prepared what we thought would be enough gift bags, but we’ll be short. Please stretch our supply.”

“Two lines,” the leader shouted to the kids. “Boys here, girls there.” The children lined up, faces eager with excitement.

The teens began giving out the gifts.

I stood inside the church watching as the large cardboard boxes rapidly emptied. “Lord, please stretch our supply,” I echoed.

There were more than 150 kids, and by gift-giving time we counted 225 children.

Publisher The Adventist World, an international periodical of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The General Conference, Northern Asia-Pacific Division of Seventh-day Adventists®, is the publisher.

Executive Editor/Director of Adventist Review Ministries Bill Knott International Publishing Manager Hong, Myung Kwan Adventist World Coordinating Committee Si Young Kim, chair; Yukata Inada; Joel Tompkins; Hong, Myung Kwan; Han, Suk Hee; Lyu, Dong Jin Associate Editors/Directors, Adventist Review Ministries Lael Caesar, Gerald A. Klingbeil, Greg Scott

There was still a long line of kids when a teenage girl picked up the last batch of gift bags. That was it. The boxes were now empty. *** “Here’s some more gift bags.” A young Honduran man handed the teenage girl a black plastic trash bag with a smile.

She reached in, gathered an armload of boy and girl gift bags, and handed them to the waiting kids.

“And some more that were back here in the church.” The young man handed her two more large cardboard boxes, each filled with carefully wrapped gift bags.

Moments later the gift-giving was over.

Two hundred twenty-five children sat outside the church playing with dollies and cars, eating candy, and laughing happily.

“There were just enough gift bags,” the leader said. “Where did the extra ones come from?”

“They were stacked in the corner of the church in large cardboard boxes,” a teenager answered.

“A young Honduran man brought them to us,” someone said. “He was standing right over there, with a big smile. Didn’t you see him?”

Then everyone went silent. We had seen him. We had noticed his smile. We had happily given away the gifts he gave us. But now he was gone, and we didn’t know who he was, or where he had gotten the gift bags.

Then suddenly we all knew.

Editors based in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA Sandra Blackmer, Stephen Chavez, Wilona Karimabadi Editors based in Seoul, Korea Hong, Myung Kwan; Park, Jae Man; Kim, Hyo-Jun Digital Platforms Director Gabriel Begle Operations Manager Merle Poirier Editorial Assessment Coordinator Marvene Thorpe-Baptiste Editors-at-Large/Advisors Mark A. Finley, John M. Fowler, E. Edward Zinke Financial Manager Kimberly Brown Distribution Coordinator Sharon Tennyson Management Board Si Young Kim, chair; Bill Knott, secretary; Hong, Myung Kwan; Karnik Doukmetzian; Han, Suk Hee; Yutaka Inada; Gerald A. Klingbeil; Joel Tompkins; Ray Wahlen; Ex-officio: Juan Prestol-Puesán; G. T. Ng; Ted N. C. Wilson Art Direction and Design Types & Symbols To Writers: We welcome unsolicited manuscripts. Address all editorial correspondence to 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904-6600, U.S.A. Editorial office fax number: (301) 680-6638 E-mail: worldeditor@gc.adventist.org Web site: www.adventistworld.org Unless otherwise indicated, all Bible references are taken from the New King James Version®.

Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission.

All rights reserved worldwide.

Adventist World is published monthly and printed simultaneously in Korea, Brazil, Indonesia, Australia, Germany, Austria, Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, and the United States.

Vol. 17, No. 1

Dick Duerksen, a pastor and storyteller, lives in Portland, Oregon, United States.

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Growing Faith

Fun-filled pages for younger ages

Seven Things Dogs Teach Us About God

M

y two dogs—Brody, a 5-year-old golden retriever we’ve had since a puppy, and Coco, a rescued 4-year-old poodle mix— never fail to amaze me with their lessons from God. Here are a few of the things I’m learning: Unconditional love. Dogs love and accept us as we are.

They don’t care how intelligent we are or what we’re wearing or whether we messed up at school. They just look at us adoringly and plop down contentedly by our side. God tells us to love one another as He 30

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loves us. I think a close second would be to love one another as our dogs love us.

Total trust. My dogs don’t stress about where their next meal is coming from, or question whether I’ll be there to take care of them. Yes, I’m capable of not living up to their trust in me, but they don’t seem to realize that.

My husband and I are the focus of their love, faith, and trust, and their trust in us is complete. It’s the type of trust we should have in God, who truly never fails us.

Find joy in simple things.

My golden retriever, Brody,

loves nothing more than to play fetch. When I bring out a ball and begin throwing it for him, his joy knows no bounds.

Going for walks, chasing a bird in a field, sniffing myriad things along a trail—my dogs live such small moments to the full, with no thought of the stresses and worries of life. They truly reflect Jesus’ words: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matt.

6:34, NIV).

We’re not alone. If you have a dog, you never have to feel alone. Even when my husband Illustration: Xuan Le

BY SANDRA BLACKMER

Bible Treasure: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”

Matt. 6:34, NIV.

has to travel for his job, I never have to return to an empty house. My dogs are always there, delighted to see me. Dogs are faithful companions for the years we’re privileged to have them with us, but God offers us companionship for eternity.

Patience. My dogs spend a lot of time waiting for me. We go for daily walks, but our walking schedule is far from routine.

They have to wait until I can fit in the time each day amid my responsibilities. They don’t nag or harass me but wait patiently for when the time is right for me.

We, too, need to wait on God’s timing—but, sadly, I’m usually not as patient as my dogs.

Tolerance. I’m not as good of a person as my dogs think I am. I sometimes “lose my cool” or neglect to give them attention or overlook caring for some need they have—but it never seems to affect their love and devotion to me. They are unfailingly tolerant of my shortcomings and don’t hold grudges. If we could only be as tolerant with one another!

Overcome fear with love. My dog Coco was rescued from a

hoarding situation and came to us full of fear and insecurity. I treated her gently and kindly, gave her lots of attention, and basically showed her love and care. In time, she responded to my efforts. Even though she’s still nervous with strangers, her trust in and devotion to me eclipses that of many other dogs I’ve had. She reminds me that God is love, and love wins.

Sandra Blackmer is an assistant editor for Adventist World.

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40

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